Permit Center

Welcome to the Whatcom County Permit Center, a one-stop location, where staff is readily available to coordinate and assist with questions regarding:
  • Structural development
  • County land use regulations
  • Permitting process
  • Natural resource regulations
  • Encroachment questions
  • Any other land use or building questions

Assistance Provided


Permit Center staff can provide assistance in researching, planning, and reviewing construction projects proposed in unincorporated Whatcom County.

Permit Tips:

  
  • All building permits large and small need to go through a prescreen (residential) or preapplication (commercial--by appointment)
  • For residential prescreens you do not need an appointment--you can walk in Monday-Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm. You will need your parcel number; scaled site plan with all structures, water source, septic system & set back from property lines; construction plans. (if your plans are not complete--you can do an initial prescreen and then come back in to have them reviewed.)
  • During the prescreen Planning, Natural Resources & Plans Examining staff will determine what specific requirements may be applicable to your project and give you a checklist of items to complete and applications needed.
  • When your checklist and all items requiring reviews are complete you can schedule your building permit intake appointment.