In Development Services we review plans and issue permits for construction projects and land uses. The permit process includes permit application, plan review, contractor approval and inspections.
If you have never applied for a permit with the City of Bellevue, our Getting Started page provides guidance, including a permitting and plan review guide with step-by-step instructions on permitting, plan review, hiring a contractor and inspection requirements.
A Predevelopment Services Review offers assistance early in the development process so you can receive help and feedback with your project before submitting a permit application.
If you are still unsure how to proceed, please contact our permit center. City staff will answer all your questions and work with you throughout the permit and plan review process. Bellevue's permitting data (1998 to present) is available in the city's Open Data portal.
Permit News
Join us for our Residential Permitting Expo
Join us on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Bellevue City Hall to get practical guidance, helpful resources and answers to your questions about permitting, construction and more. Whether you’re a homeowner considering a building a home or ADU, a DIY remodeler or interested in housing or other policy updates, this event will have something for everyone! This family-friendly event welcomes community members of all ages and will include fun activities for kids. Registration encouraged but not required. Learn more and see all of the event details.
Changes to Residential Permits
The Development Services Department has launched a coordinated review process for one- and two-family residential building permits (BS permits) as of Sept. 2. The change is designed to make the permitting experience more efficient and predictable. These improvements respond to feedback from builders and developers and reflect the department's commitment to efficiency, transparency and exceptional customer service. Additional details are available on the Residential Building Permits page.
Middle Housing
The City of Bellevue has adopted middle housing land use code updates to comply with House Bills (HB) 1110 and 1337, which require cities to allow more diverse and denser housing types in residential areas. To support implementation, the Development Services Department has established interim permitting requirements for middle housing projects to account for the range of allowed housing types. A new permit type specific to middle housing is currently being developed and will be introduced in a future phase of implementation. Additional middle housing building information is available, as well as background information on the code amendments.
Permit Search
Search for the type of permit you want, using the menu options on the left or use our permit search function.
Refer to Permit FAQs and Building Permit Requirements for guidance on when you need a permit.
Some projects that can require a permit include:
- Accessory Dwelling Unit
- Decks
- Furnace or Water Heater Replacement
- Remodel with no structural work
- Reroof
- Tree Removal