Sammamish discusses construction compliance and proposes AI drone inspection program

Sammamish City Council is taking significant steps to enhance construction site management and streamline the permitting process, as discussed in the recent meeting on April 8, 2025. The council addressed concerns about code compliance and the challenges faced by builders in adhering to permit regulations.

City officials reported a decline in code compliance cases since the peak during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they noted an increase in permit compliance issues, where builders are not following the terms of their issued permits. To tackle this, the city is focusing on improving training for construction site management and refining the entire construction process from planning to execution.

One innovative proposal discussed was the potential use of drone technology for site inspections. Although the idea was ultimately deemed unfeasible due to legal concerns, it highlighted the city's openness to exploring advanced solutions for monitoring compliance. Instead, the city plans to implement a new site management plan requirement for builders, ensuring clearer guidelines on site organization and material storage.

Additionally, the council is committed to simplifying the permitting process in line with recent legislative changes. They have already made adjustments to speed up permit reviews and issuance, aiming to enhance the overall experience for applicants. The city is also working on improving communication between planners and builders to reduce misunderstandings and delays in the permit process.

As Sammamish moves forward, these initiatives are expected to foster better compliance, enhance construction efficiency, and ultimately benefit the community by ensuring safer and more organized building practices. The city plans to continue refining its processes and exploring new technologies to keep pace with evolving construction needs.