While it's true that you can build without a permit and hope that no one calls L&I, and even true that if L&I catches up with you, the fine is only nominally more than the cost of the permit, there is a major issue you're all avoiding.

Not all permits are approved. If you build a deck off the side of your house (or demo and rebuild a one story addition on the rear) and it does not meet zoning or building codes, the permit can be denied and you can be made to remove the new structure. Trust me. I've had contractors build decks, remodel bathrooms and install wheelchair lifts for me for almost 20 years now. A couple of times they've "forgotten" to draw permits. Sometimes they luck out and can just get them retroactively, but a few times they've had to tear it all down and eat the cost.

It's simpler to get it right the first time. Go to L&I's counter in the lobby of the municipal services building at 15 & JFK. They'll walk you through the process.

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