Current fees and rates charged by Whatcom County Planning and Development Services (PDS) are adopted under  Ordinance 2022-090. Please see the Unified Fee Schedule (PDF) for all applicable permit based fees.

Building permit fees are largely based on the valuation of the proposed structure, the project’s proximity to critical areas and the number of proposed mechanical and plumbing fixtures. Additional development permits, not included in this worksheet, may also be required. Such separate permits may include, but are not limited to, shoreline developments, encroachment and/or other applicable current planning and fire permits.

Estimations
The Building Permit Estimate Worksheet (XLS) helps estimate the projected cost of a single family residence or detached structure building permit. 

Building Permit Deposits
At the very least, a deposit fee is required at the time you submit your building permit application. This fee will be deducted from your total building permit cost with the remainder balance to be paid at the time you pick up your permit.