This page provides guidance, data and resources to assist local governments in creating a permit-ready plan program.
Permit-ready plans (also known as pre-approved plans) are professionally created home designs that local governments have approved as being consistent with local zoning, design regulations and building code requirements. Homeowners and builders interested in using these plans can benefit from an expedited building permit process and reduced design costs.
Permit-ready plans are particularly useful for infill housing development where smaller dwelling units can be accommodated on existing lots. Many permit-ready plan programs initially targeted and incentivized detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs), duplexes, cottage housing. Some communities have expanded or considered expanding their program to provide plans for triplexes, townhomes, and other middle housing dwellings.
Permit-ready Plan Explorer
The Permit-Ready Plan Explorer provides access to over 150 permit-ready plans from communities throughout Washington. These professionally developed plans have already been reviewed by a local jurisdiction to ensure that they meet local code requirements.
This dashboard also includes information about local permit-ready plan programs from 18 jurisdictions throughout the state, including links to adopted ordinances.
Program development guidance coming soon
Commerce is building tools to support local governments developing a permit-ready plan program. A draft guide was recently available for public comment and is being finalized now.
The guide will outline steps and questions for local governments to consider when building a permit-ready plan program. Check back soon for the final version. Questions may be submitted to Lilith Vespier by emailing Lilith.Vespier@Commerce.wa.gov.