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Pasco eases permitting for common residential work; council adopts code changes
Summary
The City of Pasco adopted ordinance 4770 to update the municipal code and exempt a range of common residential activities from building permits, with staff planning outreach and customer guidance to minimize code enforcement issues.
The Pasco City Council on Monday adopted Ordinance No. 4770 to amend the Pasco Municipal Code and expand the types of residential work exempt from a building permit.
Director Miller told council the revisions align Pasco with exemptions in the International Residential Code and International Building Code and are intended to reduce paperwork and speed routine projects for residents. The change will allow residents to do certain activities—examples were summarized in staff materials—without applying for a permit. The city will produce a flyer and a ‘‘cheat sheet’’ to educate residents and front‑line permit staff about the new exemptions.
Deputy City Manager Sigdell and Director Miller were credited by council for work on the code changes. Councilmembers praised staff for streamlining the code and said the update should free permit staff for higher‑priority work. Councilmember Grama called the change “a big win for the citizens of Pasco.”
Staff noted limits: when work raises complex spatial or utility questions (for example locating sheds near water or sewer lines), front counter staff will assist residents or transfer the case to a planner. If structures are built improperly and encroach into rights‑of‑way or over essential utilities, the city may address issues through code enforcement.
Councilmember Milne moved to adopt the ordinance, with the motion seconded; the vote was unanimous. Staff will begin outreach and publish guidance to help residents comply with location and safety requirements.
