Building

Building Permits must be obtained prior to starting work.

Please plan your projects accordingly and apply for required permitting in advance. Commencement of projects prior to obtaining proper permitting may result in after-the-fact fees, which start at a minimum of $50, and/or a Stop Work Order.  

What building codes do I need to follow?

Construction must conform to standards adopted by the Town of Friday Harbor and the State of Washington. The Town adopted 2021 Building Codes in March of 2024. Click here for the full list of Development Regulations

What are the Town's local design criteria?

  • Seismic Zone:  D1
  • Wind Load: 110 mph   
  • Wind Exposure:  Site Specific
  • Soil Bearing: 1500 PSF
  • Frost Depth:  12 inches
  • Snow Load:  25 lb. L.L.
  • Floor Load: 60 lb L.L. Exterior Decks /40 lb. L.L. interior/ 30lb L.L. Sleeping Room

Find this and more information in our Construction Permit Handout.

Do I need a building permit?

Please refer to Construction Permit Handout and contact Community Development and Planning with any further questions. You may also find our Building Permit Guidelines helpful.

Where do I find building permit applications?

You may visit Town Hall's Administration office to pick up building permit applications or you can download them from our Forms & Fees page.

NEW! See CHECKLISTS we use when reviewing your projects.

Where do I obtain an electrical permit?

The Town of Friday Harbor does not issue electrical permits.  You may apply for and obtain electrical permits from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

How do I request an inspection?

Please request an inspection of your permitted project at least 24 hours in advance by emailing: permits@fridayharbor.org 

Include your name, permit number, and type of inspection being requested.

If you do not have access to email, please call 360-378-2810 ext. 248.

See Forms and Fees for more information.

Staff Directory

  1. Ryan Ericson

    Community Development & Planning Director
    ryane@fridayharbor.org
    More Information

Community Development & Planning Office Hours:

M-F 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 
  and 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Meetings are scheduled by request.

Submit all applications, plans, and associated documents to:

permits@fridayharbor.org