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Building Department

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1. What is the difference between the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC)?

The main difference between these two codes is that the IBC can be used to design any building or structure. The scope of the IBC states that its provisions apply to the "construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal, and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures."

The IRC has a scope that is limited to one and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures, open on at least two sides.

2. What building codes are enforced in the City of Monroe?

The City of Monroe enforces the following Washington State Building Codes and amendments; the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) title 51 and as amended by the Monroe Municipal Code Title 15 :

• 2018 ICC Energy Conservation Code with State amendments
• 2018 International Building Code
• 2018 International Existing Building Code
• 2018 International Fire Code
• 2018 International Fuel Gas Code
• 2018 International Mechanical Code
• 2018 International Property Maintenance Code
• 2018 International Residential Code
• 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
• 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code

3. Is a permit required to build a storage shed at my house?

If the shed is one story and has a roof area that measures less than 200 square feet and is an accessory structure to a one- or two-family dwelling, then a permit is not required. However, there are still specific setback requirements from the property line. For the specific setback requirements contact the Planning Department at 360-863-4501.

4. What do I need to know before I hire a contractor?

If you intend to hire a contractor please review the information provided on the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries website.

5. Do I need a permit to build a deck?

Per IRC 105.2 decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30” above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve the required egress door per IRC Section 311.4 are exempt from permit.

6. How do I schedule an inspection?

Beginning January 2, 2020 you can schedule Building, Public Works and Fire Department inspections online through our website. We will continue to offer our 24-hour voicemail system by calling 360-863-4545 ext #1 for building to schedule an inspection.  Inspection requests must be made by 4:00 p.m. to be scheduled for the next day. Leave your name, contact phone number, site address, permit number, type of inspection, and am or pm* request. When pouring concrete, please specify the time of the pour.

All permits and approved plans are required to be on-site at the time of the inspection. All inspections must be called in, even if there is a Special Inspection Agency conducting the inspection.

*am - requests between the hours of 8:30 am and 12:00 noon

*pm - requests between the hours of 1:00 and 3:30 pm

7. What is the design criteria in Monroe?

For information on design criteria for Monroe please visit the "Building" page and click on this link for more information.

8. What do I need to do if I want to add onto my house?

First, you will want to verify height restrictions, setbacks from property lines and allowable lot coverage with the Planning Department. The Building Department will then assist you in determining what types of permits will be required and the submittal requirements.  Please call the Permit Division at 360-863-4501.

9. Where may I access building permit applications?

You may download permit applications from the Permit Applications page, stop by City Hall, or call the Permit Division at 360-863-4501 and the application package may be sent to you.

10. Where do I get an electrical permit?

Electrical permits and inspections are processed by the WA State Department of Labor and Industries.

11. May I pay extra to expedite my permit?

The City of Monroe does not currently offer this service.

12. Do I need a permit to build a fence?

Yes, a fence permit is required. Please call the Permit Division at 360-863-4501 for more information. There is no fee for a fence permit.

13. Do I need a building permit to install a swimming pool or spa / hot tub at my house?

If the pool or spa / hot tub is a minimum 24” or deeper, a permit is required. The plans submitted for the pool or spa/hot tub must also include details on the required barrier. For more information please contact the Building Department at 360-863-4527.

14. May I get copies of the plans for my house?

The City of Monroe follows the Washington State Retention Schedule. Residential plans are destroyed 90 days after final occupancy. For public records, you can request them at this link. 

15. May I start work before my permit is issued?

Work on a project may not begin before the proper permits are obtained and the permit(s) and approved plans are on site. Work commencing prior to permit issuance is subject to double fees equal to permit and plan review fee Table 1-A and Table 103.4.2(A).

16. May I do the work myself or do I need to hire a contractor? What if I am a tenant and want to do the work myself?

After obtaining the proper permits any person may work on their own property, whether they occupy the property or not. Owners of commercial properties may use their own employees to do maintenance, repair, and alteration work on their own properties. A tenant may work on their tenant space with permission from the owner. See RCW 18.27.090 for more information.

17. Does the city have a Basic Plan program for residential?

Yes, the city offers a Basic Plan program once the original plan has been approved.  For more information on this program, you can find the details here.