Do I Need a Permit for That? A Homeowner’s Guide to Permits in Anacortes

One of the most common questions we hear at High Tide Home Repair is:
“Do I need a permit for this project?”

It’s a great question- and an important one. Permits exist to protect you, your neighbors, and your investment. But the rules aren’t always straightforward, and they can vary between cities and counties. If you’re a homeowner in Anacortes or Skagit County, here’s what you need to know before you pick up a hammer.

Why Do Permits Matter?

Permits may feel like a hassle, but they’re there for good reason:

✅ Safety – ensuring your home is structurally sound, wired correctly, and properly built.
✅ Compliance – making sure your project meets local building codes.
✅ Resale Value – unpermitted work can stall a future sale.
✅ Insurance Protection – if unpermitted work causes damage, insurance may not cover it.

In short: permits are about peace of mind.

Projects That Usually Require a Permit in Anacortes & Skagit County

While every project is unique, here are some that almost always require approval:

Major remodels or additions – finishing a basement, adding a room, or changing your home’s footprint.
Structural changes – removing or adding load-bearing walls, decks, or retaining walls.
Electrical upgrades – new wiring, service panels, or circuits.
Plumbing changes – moving a sink, adding a bathroom, or altering drainage.
Roof replacements – beyond simple repairs, a full replacement often requires a permit.

Projects That Usually Don’t Need a Permit

The good news: many small projects are permit-free. In most cases, you won’t need a permit for:

Painting, wallpapering, or refinishing floors.
Installing cabinets, countertops, or trim.
Minor repairs and routine maintenance.
Replacing fixtures like faucets or light switches.

The Gray Areas

Some projects depend on specifics:

Decks – The size and height matter. In Skagit County, decks over 30 inches above ground usually require a permit.
Fences – Height and location (property lines, corner lots) can trigger regulations.
Sheds & accessory buildings – Small structures may be exempt, but larger ones (often over 200 sq. ft.) need approval.
Drainage or grading changes – Anything affecting runoff or slopes can require a permit.

When in doubt, it’s always best to ask before you build.

How to Find Out for Sure

📞 Call the City of Anacortes Building Department – they’re helpful and can clarify project requirements.
🌐 Check the Skagit County Planning & Development website – they publish detailed guidelines.
👷 Let us handle it – at High Tide Home Repair, we regularly work with inspectors and know what to look out for.

What Happens If You Skip a Permit

Some homeowners hope to “fly under the radar,” but skipping permits can create big problems:

Fines and stop-work orders.
Having to tear out and redo completed work.
Problems with insurance coverage.
Resale headaches when buyers request documentation.

Final Thoughts

Permits may feel like red tape, but they’re really about protecting your investment. And the good news is- you don’t have to navigate the process alone.

At High Tide Home Repair, we stay up-to-date on Anacortes and Skagit County building codes so you don’t have to. Whether it’s a small repair, a remodel, or a new project, we can help you figure out if a permit is required—and guide you every step of the way.

👉 Thinking about a home project? Reach out today and let’s make sure it’s done right-from permits to the finishing touches.