Due to recent interim regulations implementing state legislation (effective July 2025) and pending changes to the Design Review program and the local codes implementing State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) requirements, SDCI's Tips, Director's Rules, and other guidance documents may not reflect the most current regulations or requirements. To ensure accuracy and applicability to specific code questions or permit applications, please contact us through our Send Us a Question website.

Tips

Summary: This Tip explains Seattle’s basic regulations relating to housing, zoning and vegetation, gives information on how residents may report code violations, and outlines the code compliance process. Except during the building construction process, each of these codes is enforced on a referral basis. Resident reports of suspected code violations to the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections make it possible for the department to conduct investigations, identify and cite violations and obtain compliance with code requirements.

Date Revised: 08/05/2022

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