Do I Need a Permit?
Building permits are required by the Chehalis Tribe to ensure building projects are performed in a safe and consistent manner. Fees vary from project to project.
Downloadable PDF permit documents can be found on our Downloads page.
Turn in your completed application to Don Terry in the Planning Department. If you have any doubt or questions about whether your particular project needs a permit, please call Don Terry at (360) 709-1806.
Frequently Asked Questions
- I want to build something to cover my wood, like a shed. Do I need a permit?
No, you can construct a wood shed without a permit. You would need to obtain a permit if you were adding electricity, water or someone was planning on living there.
- I want to add a porch onto my house. Do I need a permit?
Yes, you do need a permit to construct a porch.
- My house doesn’t have a fireplace or woodstove. I want to add one. Do I need a permit?
Yes, you need a permit to add a fireplace or a woodstove.
- My dogs keep running away, I want to build a fence. Do I need a permit?
No, you do not need a permit to build a fence.
- I want to add a room to my house. Do I need a permit?
Yes, you need a permit to add a bedroom. Any major modifications like adding a room, electricity or water require a permit. You do not need to obtain a permit for minor modifications like painting or installing carpet.
- I want to build a carport. Do I need a permit?
Yes, you need a permit to build a carport; however a free-standing canopy to park your car under does not require a permit.
- My husband wants to build a smokehouse to smoke fish. Do I need a permit?
No, you do not need a permit to build a smokehouse unless you are also adding electricity.
- I would like to build a drainage ditch. Do I need a permit?
Yes, you need a permit to build a drainage ditch.
- We need a new septic system. Do I need a permit?
Yes, you need a permit to put in a septic system.
- I want to build a dog house. Do I need a permit?
No, you do need a permit to build a dog house.
