Business Permitting, Development, and Licensing
Sammamish doesn't have a citywide license that applies to all businesses, but certain types of businesses are required to have a special license or permit to operate legally. In some cases, more than one license may be required. The following information will help you determine which licenses are appropriate for your industry.
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Building Permits
When are they needed?
If you're planning to do any construction, alteration, or repair work, you'll probably need to get a permit. Permits are generally required for any building, structural, electric, HVAC, and plumbing projects. Building permits are issued by the City of Sammamish and help to ensure that any work done in the city conforms with building code and zoning requirements that protect the safety of you, your team, and your customers.
How do I get one?
The City of Sammamish has a building permit intake process available through its website at MyBuildingPermit.com. You can also contact the City directly to discuss your building permit requirements.
Where do I start?
Depending on the type of construction or facility expansion there are specific permits that you may need to obtain to get your business off the ground. Visit the permit page for more details on applying for a building permit.
Land Use Permit
When are they needed?
Land use permits are required to ensure that development and business operations are in compliance with the City’s adopted zoning code, shoreline requirements and environmentally critical area regulations. In general, if you intend to open a new business in an existing space or are interested in developing a new commercial space the City’s planning department should be consulted.
How do I get one?
Land use permits can be submitted through the City’s planning department. To learn more about land use permitting in the City of Sammamish please visit the City’s land use planning page.
Where do I start?
Before you commit to a location, learn about the zoning laws that define where you can or can't legally operate a business. Also learn about the rules and regulations that apply to your business and property. To learn more about potential land use requirements the City welcomes you to schedule a submittal appointment, wherein you can consult with City staff on potential requirements for you project.
Business Licenses
When are they needed?
The City of Sammamish participates in a joint licensing program with the State of Washington Department of Revenue for all businesses including home occupation or home industries. The city and state forms have been combined into a single application. All entities that are required to register with the State of Washington and are engaged in business activities within the Sammamish city limits, including those physically located in commercial or in-home locations inside the city limits and those coming inside the city limits to perform work must have a city of Sammamish business license.
How do I get one?
Please visit the Washington State Business License Service to complete a business license application. The city's annual business license fee of $15.00 which covers the cost to administer this program. It is not considered a source of revenue.
Where do I start?
Find the appropriate application on the Business License page. For a full set of frequently asked questions regarding businesses licenses please visit the Business License FAQ.