Can I Build Garage Conversion in Spokane, WA? (2026)
Find out if you can build a garage conversion in Spokane, WA. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Whether garage conversions to living space are permitted in Spokane, WA has not been confirmed — contact the local building department or see the official source before proceeding.
Converting an attached or detached garage into living space in Spokane, WA is a popular way to add an ADU or additional living area without new construction. Garage conversion regulations in Spokane require verification with the local building department. A key consideration: whether replacement parking is required for a garage-to-ADU conversion has not been confirmed — check with the building department.
Garage Conversion Rules in Spokane
Garage Conversion Rules in Spokane: Allowed: Status not confirmed — see official source. Replacement parking required: Status not confirmed — see official source. All garage conversions to habitable space require a building permit. The converted space must meet minimum habitable room standards (typically 7 ft ceiling height, egress window, insulation, and ventilation).
Costs & Fees
Garage conversion permit fees in Spokane are typically based on project valuation. Contact the local building department through their official website for current fees. Conversion costs typically range $20,000–$80,000 depending on scope (permits, labor, materials, utility connections).
Timeline
Permit timeline: typically 2-6 weeks for plan check. Construction: 2-4 months for a typical garage conversion.
Next Steps
Next steps for converting your garage in Spokane: 1. Determine if the conversion will be an ADU (separate unit with kitchen/bath) or additional living space. 2. Check replacement parking requirements for your zone. 3. Have a contractor assess structural requirements (ceiling height, foundation, utilities). 4. Submit plans and permit application to the local building department. 5. See the full ADU rules page for size limits and requirements if creating an ADU unit.
City of Spokane Building Services
Phone: See official source
Website: https://www.spokanecity.org/buildingservices/
Online Permits: https://www.spokanecity.org/buildingservices/permits/
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Spokane property?
Yes. Washington HB 1337 (2023) requires Spokane to allow at least 2 ADUs per single-family lot by-right, without owner-occupancy requirements. ADUs are limited to 1,000 sqft. No owner-occupancy requirement. Spokane has updated its Municipal Code to comply with state law. The permit must be processed ministerially. Contact Spokane Planning or Building Services for specific requirements.
How is Spokane different from Seattle?
Spokane and Seattle are both major Washington cities but are very different places. Spokane is in Eastern Washington, 280 miles east of Seattle across the Cascade Mountains, which create a rain shadow making Spokane dry and semi-arid. Seattle receives 37 inches of rainfall per year; Spokane gets 17 inches but 50 inches of snow. Seattle's median home price is roughly double Spokane's. Avista Utilities serves Spokane's electric and gas needs — completely different from Seattle City Light or Puget Sound Energy. Spokane's economy is driven by healthcare, education, and government rather than tech.
Who provides electricity in Spokane?
Avista Utilities provides both electric and natural gas service to Spokane. This is different from most of Western Washington, which is served by Puget Sound Energy or municipal utilities like Seattle City Light. Avista is a regulated investor-owned utility headquartered in Spokane. For solar installations, you'll need both a permit from Spokane Building Services and an interconnection agreement with Avista.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Spokane?
Yes. Short-term rentals are allowed in Spokane with a license ($150/year). Spokane's STR market benefits from tourism (outdoor recreation, Gonzaga athletics, conventions at the Convention Center), university visitors (Gonzaga, Eastern Washington University, WSU Medical School), and sports tourism (Hoopfest, Bloomsday). Washington State Hotel-Motel Tax and Spokane lodging taxes apply to all STR rentals.
Is solar worth it in Spokane compared to Seattle?
Solar is actually more productive in Spokane than Seattle due to Eastern Washington's drier, sunnier climate. Spokane has approximately 25 more sunny days per year than Seattle. While Spokane's electricity rates may be lower than Seattle (reducing the dollar value of each kWh), the higher solar production can offset this. Avista offers net metering. Washington State's sales tax exemption on solar equipment applies throughout the state. A solar installer can provide a site-specific production estimate.
Source: City of Spokane Building Services — Building Regulations. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source