Building Permits, Licenses and Inspections

Announcement: New Plan and Code Adopted

The City’s updated Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Map and Zoning Code went into effect on July 31, 2026. Going forward, proposed development projects must meet the standards in the updated zoning code.

Changes from the previous zoning code include:

  • More and a wider variety of housing, including middle housing, is allowed across the city to support housing affordability and stability.  
  • More mixing of residential and commercial uses to support connected and accessible neighborhoods. 
  • Stronger tree preservation requirements to support tree canopy goals. 
  • Parking allowed but not required to support more efficient use of land. 
  • Enhanced protections for existing manufactured home communities to help retain long-term affordability and prevent displacement of existing residents. 

This is a big milestone for our city, and many community members were involved and provided input that shaped this plan and code – Thank you.

Start your commercial or residential project here. We offer land use development, engineering and building permit services online and in person.

Resources are available online anytime to research project requirements, email applications or questions, upload plan submittals, schedule inspections or a virtual appointment.

Development Engineering

Land Use Applications

Building Permits

Contact Us

Email

Permit Specialist

  • Permit Questions
  • ePlans Technical Support

ePlans@cityofvancouver.us

Building Plans Examiner

  • Commercial Questions
  • Residential Questions
  • Energy Code Questions

planreview@cityofvancouver.us

In-Person

In-Person Service

Monday, Wednesday, Friday

Open 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Closed 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Additional Resources