Signs permits in City of Seattle: fees, timeline & requirements (2026)
Everything you need to know about pulling a sign permit in City of Seattle, Washington — when one is required, what it costs, how long review takes, what documents are required, and which inspections you can expect. Cited to Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI).
Free lookup, no account needed — your lot polygon, zoning, setbacks and overlays, cited to City of Seattle's source.
When does a sign need a permit in City of Seattle?
City sign code (typically Title 22 or 23) governs. Wall, freestanding, projecting, awning, and electronic message signs all require permits. Most cities exempt small temporary residential signs (real-estate, political) under area thresholds (~6 sqft).
From City of Seattle's own code
“A. The following signs are prohibited in all zones: 1. Flashing signs;”Source ↗verified 2026-09-05
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, electrical-01-or-02
Who can do this work in City of Seattle?
Kolmo Construction is a licensed Washington general contractor — KOLMOL*753JS, active through April 10, 2027, bonded and insured — working throughout City of Seattle and King County. Kolmo prepares the drawings and submittals, files the sign permit with Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI), carries the project through review and inspections, and performs the construction. Call (206) 410-5100 for a City of Seattle 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.
Signs permit fee estimate in City of Seattle
Worked example for a $25,000 sign project (building permit). Your actual fee scales with project valuation.
| Building permit fee | $508.63 |
| Plan review | $330.61 |
| Technology surcharge | $25.43 |
| WA state surcharge | $6.5 |
| Estimated total | $871.17 |
Sign permit fees commonly $100-$400 plus electrical sub-permit. Computed from the City of Seattle fee bracket schedule · source ↗. Impact/utility fees may apply separately.
How to apply yourself
- 1. Confirm your parcel's zoning & overlays. Run an address lookup for your City of Seattle sign — we'll pull your specific lot polygon, zoning, setbacks, and any shoreline/ECA/historic overlays.
- 2. Assemble submittals (4).
- 3. Submit through the city portal: Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI) ↗
- 4. Track review (typical: —). Respond to reviewer comments promptly.
- 5. Pay issuance fees (Sign permit fees commonly $100-$400 plus electrical sub-permit.) and pick up the permit. Inspection card travels with the job.
Or have Kolmo do it
We pull sign permits in City of Seattle every month. We prepare the drawings and submittals, file with Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI), handle reviewer comments, and build the project.
Licensed WA general contractor KOLMOL*753JS · bonded & insured
Signs permits in City of Seattle — FAQ
When does a sign need a permit in City of Seattle?
City sign code (typically Title 22 or 23) governs. Wall, freestanding, projecting, awning, and electronic message signs all require permits. Most cities exempt small temporary residential signs (real-estate, political) under area thresholds (~6 sqft).
How much does a sign permit cost in City of Seattle?
For a $25,000 sign project, the estimated City of Seattle permit fee is about $871.17 — building fee $508.63 + plan review $330.61 + surcharges. Fees scale with project valuation per the city schedule.