Apply now for Permit Review Process Update grants

Opportunity Type: Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Important Dates: Applications due: July 31 The Washington State Department of Commerce is accepting applications for permit review process update grants. Grants of up to $75,000 will be awarded to local governments to help reduce permit review timelines. A total of $475,000 is available. Who is eligible? All Washington towns, cities and counties are eligible for this program. Please review the grant instructions prior to submitting an application. Eligible costs may include those associated with the following activities: Project planning and scoping, purchasing software, and implementation of a permitting system capable of processing digital permit applications, virtual inspections, electronic review, and with capacity for picture/video storage. Eligible for jurisdictions fully or partially using paper permitting processes or outdated electronic systems. Staff training in newly adopted application and review procedures. Contracting with outside assistance to audit development regulations to identify and correct barriers to housing development. Changes to development code that helps improve permit review processes. Contracting with a third-party business to conduct permit review or add additional inspection staff. How to apply Review the grant application instructions (PDF) Submit a grant application (Smartsheet form) . The form will not save your progress. Be prepared to complete the application in one sitting. Applications are due by 5 July 31. Pre-application workshop Commerce hosted a pre-application workshop on July 8 to provide more information about this grant opportunity and how to apply. Watch a recording of the pre-application meeting (Vimeo) Background In 2023, SB 5290 amended the Local Project Review Act to help streamline permit review for local cities and counties in an effort to address housing shortages across the state. This grant is designed to help jurisdictions update their permit review processes with an emphasis on improving review times for residential permits. Questions? Please contact Ryan Shea . Visit Commerce’s Local Project Review webpage for more information. Associated Files Application instructions Application form Questions and answers Contact Ryan Shea Local Permit Review Program Specialist [email protected] 509-606-3509