Signs permits in Everett: fees, timeline & requirements (2026)
Everything you need to know about pulling a sign permit in Everett, Washington — when one is required, what it costs, how long review takes, what documents are required, and which inspections you can expect. Cited to Everett Public Works — Permit Services.
Free lookup, no account needed — your lot polygon, zoning, setbacks and overlays, cited to Everett's source.
When does a sign need a permit in Everett?
Everett requires a City sign permit to erect, re-erect, attach, structurally alter or relocate a sign; the application goes to the building official, needs planning department approval, and the city engineer reviews it for hazards to drivers and pedestrians (EMC 19.36.020(A)). No permit is needed, though the sign must still meet the sign code, for a nonelectric sign of up to 2 square feet in a single-family zone, portable signs that meet the code, incidental signs, or directional signs of up to 6 square feet (EMC 19.36.020(B)(2)).
From Everett's own code
“Except as exempted in subsection B of this section, no sign shall be erected, re-erected, attached, structurally altered, or relocated by any person, firm or corporation without a sign permit issued by the city.”Source ↗verified 2026-10-24
Required submittals
- Site / elevation plan
- Sign drawing with dimensions + materials
- Structural calc if freestanding
- Electrical detail if illuminated
Inspection sequence
- Footing if freestanding
- Electrical rough-in if illuminated
- Final
Contractor specialties needed
General contractor · Electrician (journey-level 01 or residential 02)
Who can do this work in Everett?
Kolmo Construction is a licensed Washington general contractor — KOLMOL*753JS, active through April 10, 2027, bonded and insured — working throughout Everett and Snohomish County. Kolmo prepares the drawings and submittals, files the sign permit with Everett Public Works — Permit Services, carries the project through review and inspections, and performs the construction. Call (206) 410-5100 for an Everett sign quote.
Notes & caveats
Issuing body is city building dept (structural review) often with planning sign-off (zoning compliance). Electrical permit required for illuminated signs. Historic-district signs get separate review.
How to apply yourself
- 1. Confirm your parcel's zoning & overlays. Run an address lookup for your sign in Everett — we'll pull your specific lot polygon, zoning, setbacks, and any shoreline, critical-area or historic overlays.
- 2. Assemble submittals: the 4 documents under Required submittals above.
- 3. Submit through the city portal: Everett Public Works — Permit Services ↗
- 4. Track review. Respond to reviewer comments promptly.
- 5. Pay issuance fees (Everett'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 Everett Public Works — Permit Services, handles reviewer comments, and builds the project.
Licensed WA general contractor KOLMOL*753JS · bonded & insured
Signs permits in Everett — FAQ
When does a sign need a permit in Everett?
Everett requires a City sign permit to erect, re-erect, attach, structurally alter or relocate a sign; the application goes to the building official, needs planning department approval, and the city engineer reviews it for hazards to drivers and pedestrians (EMC 19.36.020(A)). No permit is needed, though the sign must still meet the sign code, for a nonelectric sign of up to 2 square feet in a single-family zone, portable signs that meet the code, incidental signs, or directional signs of up to 6 square feet (EMC 19.36.020(B)(2)).
How much does a sign permit cost in Everett?
Everett's posted fee handouts have no sign permit table: Planning's review of sign permit plans is 10% of the permit fee, and an administrative modification of the sign rules is $1,092 (2026 Planning, Zoning and Land Use Fee Schedule). Permit Services (425-257-8810) quotes the sign permit itself.