Building Division

The Building Division handles and issues all building permits for the City.  The City has certified inspectors who are qualified plan examiners and inspectors for all types of building construction to promote a safe and professional building quality in the City of Centralia and its Urban Growth Area (UGA).

When do I need a building permit?  Almost all construction projects in the City need a building permit includes the following:

  • New residential and commercial structures.  This includes new homes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and any commercial or industrial buildings.
  • New Construction & Additions: Any new structure, garages, carports, pole building, sheds (over a certain size, e.g., 200 sq ft), accessory buildings, or additions to existing buildings.
  • Roofs: installation of new roofing or replacing.
  • Structural Changes: Alterations, repairs, or demolition of structural components, foundations, or changing a building's use.
  • Decks & Patios: Building new decks, covered patios, or carports.
  • Electrical: New wiring, panel upgrades, or installing new fixtures (though some minor replacements might be exempt).
  • Plumbing: New systems, significant repairs, or installing fixtures like pools/hot tubs.
  • Mechanical: Installing or replacing furnaces, AC units, heat pumps, water heaters, or wood stoves.
  • Other: Installing swimming pools (in-ground or above-ground), solar panels, retaining walls over 4-feet in height, or signs.

What are the City's Building Fees? (Section 5)
What Building Codes and Requirements has the City adopted?
Where can I find out if my builder/contractor has a license? Washington State Labor and Industries

What happens if I skip getting a building permit?  If you don't get a building permit, you risk significant penalties, including hefty fines, stop-work orders, mandatory demolition of the work, and potential legal action, plus issues with insurance claims and selling the property due to safety violations and lack of code compliance. Building without a permit is illegal and bypasses safety inspections, leading to dangerous structures, potential property damage, and major financial and legal headaches down the line, with costs often far exceeding the initial permit fees.

Online Permit Submittal

Please Note: The City of Centralia Accepts Debit/Credit Card Payments for Permits - with a 3.5% Fee.

Building Inspection Request Line

Phone: 360-330-7663

Electrical Permits

Electrical permits are issued through:
Washington State Labor and Industries
7273 Linderson Way SW
Tumwater, WA 98501-9414
Phone: 360-902-5799