Published April 23 2026
Bellevue Development Services Department is updating the permitting process for wireless communication facilities (WCF) to improve clarity, consistency and efficiency in the permitting process for applicants and the community.
What has changed?
Eligible facilities requests (Section 6409(a)) no longer require a pre-development services (DC) permit. Instead, 6409(a) reviews are included the WCF in right-of-way - franchise utility (TJ) permit for facilities in the public right-of-way, or WCF on private/public property (CD) permit for facilities on non-ROW sites. The WCF in right-of-way (CA) permit type has been discontinued.
As part of this update:
- DC permits are no longer required for eligible facilities requests (Section 6409(a)).
- Section 6409(a) review is embedded within TJ and CD permit reviews.
- WCF in right-of-way- franchise utility (TJ permit) includes Fire, Utilities and Land Use review as part of the standard workflow.
The CA permit type is discontinued and is no longer accepted for new applications. Existing CA permits will continue to be reviewed under the current process and applicants may choose to cancel existing CA and TJ Permit and resubmit under the new TJ permit.
What this update covers
These changes apply to applicants and professionals involved in the design, installation and modification of Wireless Communication Facilities (WCF) in Bellevue, including:
- Wireless carriers and telecommunications providers
- Contractors and consultants submitting WCF permit applications
- Property owners hosting wireless equipment on private property
- Applicants submitting eligible facilities requests (Section 6409(a)) or projects in the public right of way should pay particular attention to these updates, as permit requirements and application pathways have changed.
Why the change?
These updates align Bellevue’s permitting process with federal regulations and the requirements of the city’s land use code LUC 20.20.195, while simplifying permit process and reducing duplication. The new structure supports clearer permit pathway, improved coordination across disciplines and a more predictable review process.
For more information, please contact the Land Use and Zoning Information Desk:
Phone: 425-452-4188
E-mail: landusereview@bellevuewa.gov