How to Get a Driveway Permit in Yakima County, WA (2026 Guide)
Everything you need to know about driveway permits in Yakima County, WA, local requirements, fees, timelines, and how to apply.
By Joey, Founder · Last updated May 15, 2026 · How we research →
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Free Permit Lookup →Do You Need a Driveway Permit in Yakima County?
Based on Yakima County's local building codes, you'll need a permit when:
WA, a new driveway or widening that affects a public right-of-way requires a driveway permit. The Yakima County Public Services handles connections to county roads; WSDOT handles connections to state routes such as SR 32, SR 125, SR 28, US 50, and US 52.
These driveway projects are typically exempt in Yakima County:
WA, resurfacing or sealing an existing driveway in the same footprint does not require a building permit per 2021 WSRC R105.2.
Permit Fees in Yakima County
Contact Yakima County Building and Fire Safety Division for current permit fee information. Fees are typically calculated based on estimated project value.
Here are typical fee ranges for driveway projects nationally:
| Project Scope | Typical Permit Fee |
|---|---|
| Driveway replacement (same footprint, where permit needed) | $50 – $150 |
| New driveway permit | $100 – $400 |
| Curb cut / encroachment permit | $150 – $500+ |
| Driveway widening permit | $75 – $300 |
| Grading/drainage review (if triggered) | $100 – $400 additional |
How Long Does It Take?
In Yakima County, typical approval time for driveway permits is about 2 weeks.
More complex projects requiring structural review or variances may take longer. Simple projects may qualify for expedited or over-the-counter review in some cases.
How to Apply for a Driveway Permit in Yakima County
- 1 Check requirements: Use our free lookup tool or contact Yakima County Building and Fire Safety Division to confirm your project needs a permit.
- 2 Gather documents: Prepare your application, site plan, construction drawings, and any other required documents.
- 3 Submit online: Yakima County accepts applications online at Yakima County Building and Fire Safety Division.
- 4 Pay fees: Pay the applicable permit fees (Contact for pricing).
- 5 Wait for approval: Your application will be reviewed by Yakima County plan reviewers. Typical turnaround is about 2 weeks.
- 6 Begin work: Once approved, post your permit visibly at the job site before starting work.
- 7 Schedule inspections: Call Yakima County Building and Fire Safety Division at (509) 574-2300 to schedule required inspections at each phase of the project.
Yakima County Building Department Contact
Required Inspections in Yakima County
Most driveway projects in Yakima County require inspections at each construction stage:
Curb Cut / Approach Inspection, Approach dimensions meet city standards, sidewalk crossing is ADA-compliant (cross-slope, surface), drainage is directed to the street (not onto the sidewalk or neighboring property), and the curb transition is properly formed.
Final Inspection, Driveway matches approved site plan (location, dimensions, material), proper drainage slope away from the house and not toward neighbors, curb cut properly finished, and no encroachment beyond property lines.
Schedule inspections with Yakima County Building and Fire Safety Division at (509) 574-2300 at least 24–48 hours in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you need a permit depends on the size and scope of your driveway project. In Yakima County, some smaller projects are exempt while larger ones require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.
Permit fees for driveway projects in Yakima County typically range from Contact for pricing. Fees are usually based on the estimated project value.
Typical approval time in Yakima County is about 2 weeks. Complex projects requiring structural review may take longer.
In most cases, homeowners in Yakima County can pull permits and perform work on their own primary residence as an owner-builder. You're still responsible for meeting all code requirements and passing inspections.
Working without a required permit in Yakima County can result in fines, stop-work orders, required removal of completed work, and complications when selling your home.
Ready to check your driveway project in Yakima County?
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Free Permit Lookup →Other Permit Guides for Yakima County, WA
Explore more permit guides for Yakima County:
Driveway Permits in Nearby Cities
See driveway permit requirements in other Washington cities:
See Detailed Driveway Rules for Yakima County
View all local rules, exemptions, and fee details on the permit page.
Driveway Permit Rules →