ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Spokane (2026)
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit requirements, fees, and process for Spokane, WA. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Spokane, WA.
A ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Spokane, WA. The City of Spokane Building Services handles permit applications for Spokane. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a adu (accessory dwelling unit) permit in Spokane.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Is Required in Spokane: All ADU construction
Permit Fees
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Fees in Spokane: $1,000–$5,000. Estimated timeline: 3-6 weeks.
Estimated timeline: 3-6 weeks
How to Get a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Spokane
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Spokane: All ADU construction.
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the City of Spokane Building Services at https://my.spokanecity.org/buildingservices/ for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://my.spokanecity.org/buildingservices/permits/ or in person at the City of Spokane Building Services.
Pay the permit fee: $1,000–$5,000.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 3-6 weeks.
Schedule required inspections through https://my.spokanecity.org/buildingservices/permits/. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: Spokane Planning. Washington HB 1337 requires ministerial ADU permit processing. Up to 2 ADUs per lot.
City of Spokane Building Services
Phone: (509) 625-6300
Website: https://my.spokanecity.org/buildingservices/
Online Permits: https://my.spokanecity.org/buildingservices/permits/
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:00pm
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: Spokane Building Code — ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Requirements. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source