Seattle’s Site Plan Requirements

Introduction

Applications for City of Seattle Master Use Permits (MUPs) and construction permits necessitate comprehensive site plans. This guide is meant to help applicants prepare an accurate site plan. It will include details on the types of site plans required, along with examples of preliminary, basic, and enhanced site plans.

For more comprehensive insights, refer to Tip 106, General Standards for Plans and Drawings, Tip 103A, Site Plan Guidelines, Tip 103B, ECA Site Plan Requirements, and Tip 220, specific standards for certain residential zones.

What is a Site Plan?

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A site plan is an accurate drawing of a property detailing its size, shape, and various features, both natural and man-made. It presents the current state of the property and any intended modifications. Preliminary site plans are essential for preliminary discussions with the SDCI (Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections).

For details on required permits and plans, contact the SDCI Applicant Services Center (ASC) at www.seattle.gov/sdci/about-us/who-we-are/applicant-services-center or (206) 684-8850.

Types of Site Plans

1. Preliminary Site Plan: This rough version is used for coaching and pre-submittal conferences. Here’s what’s required:
   • Address of the project, owner’s name, legal description, property tax account number, etc.
   • Dimensions and specifics of property lines, right-of-way limits, curbs, sidewalks, etc.
   • Location and specifics of structures, driveways, parking areas, etc.
   • Specifics related to Environmentally Critical Areas (ECA), building structures extending into public areas, tree protection, etc.
2. Basic Site Plan: Used for smaller projects like small commercial alterations, changes of use, residential alterations, and more. This requires everything in the preliminary site plan, plus:
   • Drawing scale, specific dimensions of structures.
   • Location plan, street and alley improvement dimensions, site lot coverage calculations.
   • Identification of proposed work, location, and dimension of window wells, etc.
   • Elevation and developed roadway, driveway grades, curb cut width, etc.
3. Enhanced Site Plan: Required for more complex projects. It includes everything from the preliminary and basic site plans, plus:
   • Elevations and contour lines, steep slopes specifics, drainage features.
   • Details of street trees, water mains, storm drains, power poles, etc.
   • Information on stormwater treatment, Land Use Code development standards, street improvement plans, etc.

Site Plan Examples

Examples of these plans are provided as figures 1, 2, and 3 for preliminary, basic, and enhanced site plans respectively.

For More Information

• King County Assessor: www.kingcounty.gov/depts/assessor.aspx
• Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI): www.seattle.gov/sdci
• Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT): www.seattle.gov/transportation

Legal Disclaimer

This guide should not replace codes and regulations. The applicant is responsible for compliance with all code and rule requirements, irrespective of whether they are described in this guide.

By aligning with the provided tips and guidelines, applicants can ensure that their site plans meet the City of Seattle’s rigorous standards, facilitating a smooth process for approval and development.