Washingtoner - City of Spokane Issues First Rebuild Permit Following Spokane Complex Fires

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~ Spokane, WA - The City of Spokane's Development Services Center (DSC) has issued its first rebuild permit in the wake of the devastating Spokane Complex Fires. The DSC is taking a comprehensive approach to streamline the rebuilding process and provide assistance to those impacted by the wildfires.

According to Erin Hut, Communications Director for the City of Spokane, the DSC has already reduced demolition fees and is working with state partners to identify additional code relief for wildfire reconstruction. This effort aims to make the rebuilding process more efficient and affordable for affected residents.

For homes built after February 1, 2021, the DSC has retained electronic design plans. The first rebuild permit issued was for a single-family home that utilized existing plans from when the structure was originally built in 2023. The DSC team received the permit application on August 25 and was able to issue the rebuild permit just two days later on August 27.

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Tami Palmquist, Director of the Development Services Center, expressed understanding for those impacted by the fires and their eagerness to rebuild and return to their neighborhoods. "We are ready to work alongside our neighbors and develop creative solutions so that we can get folks back on the path to rebuilding as soon as possible," she said.

To help residents understand the rebuild process, the City has created a flyer outlining the necessary steps before a rebuild permit can be issued. The first step is for residents to complete removal of hazardous materials from their property. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently conducting surveys and removing household materials at no cost. Residents can check their property's status through an online portal or by calling the EPA Hotline.

The second step is for residents to obtain an asbestos survey and submit a Notice of Intent (NOI). Asbestos surveys must be completed before debris and ash can be removed from burned structures. A negative survey allows for removal by either the property owner or a contractor, while a positive survey requires the use of a certified asbestos abatement company. The survey results must be submitted to the Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency before the City can issue a demolition or building permit.

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Once these steps have been completed, residents can obtain a demolition/clean-up permit for a reduced fee of $35. The processing and technology fees are also waived for homeowners of wildfire-affected properties. The DSC has provided an online permit application for convenience.

Finally, residents can determine their reconstruction plan. They have the option to use previously approved plans or create new ones. The DSC and permit team are available to assist individuals and families through this process and can be contacted via email or phone.

The City of Spokane is committed to helping its residents rebuild after the devastating wildfires. By streamlining the process and providing assistance, they hope to make it easier for those impacted to return to their homes as soon as possible.

Filed Under: Government, City

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