Begin with the property
Collect the street address and parcel information if available. Confirm whether the property is inside city limits or in an unincorporated area. Ask the relevant permitting office to resolve uncertainty rather than relying only on the city printed in a mailing address.
Understand the King County distinction
King County’s permitting division describes its building and land-use services as serving unincorporated King County. A property within an incorporated city generally starts with that city’s permitting guidance. Separate authorities may be involved for particular systems; confirm those responsibilities for the project.
Describe the changes clearly
Prepare a short list of proposed work: rooms affected, changes to walls or openings, fixtures or equipment moving, added floor area, and any intended change of use. Include existing drawings or permit records when available. Specific scope helps the office identify the appropriate next questions.
Use official guidance
For a Kirkland project, review the city’s “Do you need a permit?” page. For an unincorporated King County project, use the county’s permit resources. These are starting points, not an approval of a particular design. Ask about your actual property and work.
Record the answer and next steps
Save the resource link, date, contact, and any guidance you receive. Before work begins, establish who prepares required documents, who submits applications, and how review comments and inspections will be handled. Requirements can change; recheck guidance when the scope changes.
Official resources
Sources checked October 29, 2026. Confirm current requirements for the property and proposed work.