Get a Permit

Sewer Construction or Repair Permit

If you work on your own private plumbing or side sewer projects, you need a City of Tacoma permit so City inspectors can ensure they are built to proper standards.

Side sewer work done in the City right-of-way must be done by a contractor licensed and bonded to work in the City of Tacoma. You can find them listed in the local telephone directory under “Sewer Contractors," or visit the Labor and Industries website to learn more about hiring a contractor.

Get your permit from 8 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday at:

            Building and Land Use Services Division
            747 Market Street
            Room 345 (3rd floor)
            Tacoma, WA 98402

For more information about permits, please call (253) 591-5030 or visit GovME.

Stormwater Connection or Repair Permit

If you work on your own private stormwater system that is connected to the City’s stormwater system, your own private system that includes a stormwater facility that was permitted or proposing a connection, facility or discharge through the City curb, you need a City of Tacoma permit so City inspectors can ensure the facilities and connections are built to proper standards.

Any storm work completed in the City right-of-way must be done by a contractor licensed and bonded to work in the City of Tacoma.  You can find them in the local telephone directory under “Sewer Contractors,” or visit the Labor and Industries website to learn more about hiring a contractor.

Special Approved Discharges to Wastewater System

To discharge any additional or short-term waste into the wastewater system, you must have a special approved discharge permit.

Submit applications and fees at least 30 days before your requested discharge date. Fees are based on the amount and the strength of the discharged wastewater as well as a fixed administrative fee of $200 to $650. (Some exceptions apply.)

Sampling may be required to ensure the discharges comply with water quality requirements. Remember, we all have to do our part to keep pollutants out of our environment. Read our fish-friendly tips.

For more information about special approved discharge permits, fees and regulations, call (253) 591-5588.

Special Approved Discharges to Stormwater System

To discharge anything other than rain water into the stormwater system, you must have a special discharge permit.

Submit applications and fees at least 30 days before your requested discharge date. Fees are based on the quantity of the treated water to be discharged as well as application and administration fees:

• $500 application fee, due when you submit your application
• $300 annual administration fee, to be paid by January 30 of the year you begin discharging, as well as each year you continue to discharge
• $0.0013347 per gallon discharged

Sampling may be required to make sure the discharges comply with water quality requirements. Remember, we all have to do our part to keep pollutants out of our bays, lakes and streams. Learn more about how you can help keep our water clean.

For more information about stormwater discharge permits, fees and regulations, call (253) 591-5588.