Permits

NOTICE: You must have a current 2024 City of Des Moines business license to apply for a permit.  If you do not have a current 2024 City business license, please go to our business license page to apply or renew your business license before applying for a permit. For general business license information, go to the business license page.

All Building, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Re-roof, and Fire permit applications must be submitted through our MyPermits Online portal.

MyPermits Online

Electronic Plan Requirements

For permit applications that require review, you will be asked to upload the relevant permit application and all required documents during the online application process. Please use the Electronic Plan Requirements for your submittal.

Email all Land Use and Sign permit applications to [email protected].

Forms & Documents

  • Building Permits - Application and informational handouts for building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, demolition and fire prevention permits.
  • Sign Permits - Application and informational handouts relating to the requirements and restrictions for business signage.
  • Land Use Permits - Application and informational handouts for land use permits including site plan review, environmental review, critical areas review, subdivisions, shoreline permits, etc.
  • Construction Codes - Codes adopted by the City of Des Moines.
  • Inspection Instructions - Contact information and how to call in inspections.
  • Parcel Numbers - Property parcel numbers can be found by using the city's GIS maps, searching King County's Parcel Viewer, or calling the Permit Center at (206) 870-7576.
  • Records Requests - If you would like information on a past or current project, you can submit a Public Record Request.
  • Right-Of-Way Permits - Application and informational handouts relating to the requirements for right-of-way permits.
  • Transportation Impact Fees - Fee schedule and informational handouts relating to the transportation impact fee program.

Contact Us

Planning/zoning, engineering and general inquiries will be answered via phone or email:

Planning/Zoning
[email protected]
(206) 870-7576

Engineering
[email protected]
(206) 870-6525

Building
[email protected]
(206) 870-7576

Lobby Hours
Tuesday - Wednesday - Thursday
9:00 am - 4:00 pm