Land-use permits in Bellevue: fees, timeline & requirements (2026)
Everything you need to know about pulling a land-use / zoning permit in Bellevue, Washington — when one is required, what it costs, how long review takes, what documents are required, and which inspections you can expect. Cited to Bellevue Development Services.
Free lookup, no account needed — your lot polygon, zoning, setbacks and overlays, cited to Bellevue's source.
When does land-use or zoning work need a permit in Bellevue?
Triggered when a project does not conform to the strict letter of the zoning code. Variances require a hardship finding under most city codes. Design review thresholds vary (Seattle: most multifamily + non-residential >4,000 sqft; many cities: design review only in designated districts).
From Bellevue's own code
“The designation, location, and boundaries of the land use districts and Shoreline Overlay District established by this Code are as shown and depicted on the official land use map(s) of the City , which shall be administratively maintained by the Director and made available on the City ’s website. (Ord. 6846, 6-17-25, § 42; Ord. 3145, 9-27-82, § 2)”Source ↗verified 2026-04-26
Required submittals
- Narrative of request
- Site plan
- Design / elevation drawings if design review
- SEPA checklist (if required)
- Mailing labels for public notice
Inspection sequence
- Intake completeness
- Staff review
- Public comment period
- Decision (admin or hearing examiner)
Who can do this work in Bellevue?
Kolmo Construction is a licensed Washington general contractor — KOLMOL*753JS, active through April 10, 2027, bonded and insured — working throughout Bellevue and King County. Kolmo prepares the drawings and submittals, files the land-use / zoning permit with Bellevue Development Services, carries the project through review and inspections, and performs the construction. Call (206) 410-5100 for a Bellevue land-use / zoning quote.
Notes & caveats
Issuing body is city planning, not building. Land-use approvals precede building permits and have their own SEPA threshold review. Process timelines run weeks to months; public notice + hearing examiner involvement is common.
How to apply yourself
- 1. Confirm your parcel's zoning & overlays. Run an address lookup for your Bellevue land-use / zoning — we'll pull your specific lot polygon, zoning, setbacks, and any shoreline/ECA/historic overlays.
- 2. Assemble submittals: the 5 documents under Required submittals above.
- 3. Submit through the city portal: Bellevue Development Services ↗
- 4. Track review. Respond to reviewer comments promptly.
- 5. Pay issuance fees (Bellevue's fee schedule sets them) and pick up the permit. Inspection card travels with the job.
Or have Kolmo do it
Kolmo prepares the drawings and submittals, files with Bellevue Development Services, handles reviewer comments, and builds the project.
Licensed WA general contractor KOLMOL*753JS · bonded & insured
Land-use permits in Bellevue — FAQ
When does land-use or zoning work need a permit in Bellevue?
Triggered when a project does not conform to the strict letter of the zoning code. Variances require a hardship finding under most city codes. Design review thresholds vary (Seattle: most multifamily + non-residential >4,000 sqft; many cities: design review only in designated districts).
How much does a land-use / zoning permit cost in Bellevue?
Bellevue's land use review fees (Ordinance 6879, Table 20) include a variance or critical areas permit at $304 an hour with a $2,432 deposit, a land use code interpretation at $304 an hour with a $608 deposit, predevelopment services at $304 an hour with a $608 deposit, a shoreline exemption at $547, a home occupation at $1,581, a current zoning status letter at $608, and land use review of a single-family addition at $1,216 ($237 on quick review) or a new house at $2,432. Apply via https://mybuildingpermit.com.