Wildfire Information

Yes, a clean-up/demolition permit is required. The fee for demolition permits has been reduced to $35, and the processing fee and technology fee will also be waived for homeowners of wildfire affected properties. Contact us for more information.

The Environmental Protection Agency is currently undergoing clean-up of hazardous household materials on affected sites. We recommend verifying whether the EPA clean-up team has removed any potentially hazardous materials from your property prior to applying for a clean-up/demolition permit. Please visit the Environmental Protection Agency website for more information.

Major Disaster Declaration: In the event that FEMA declares a Major Disaster Declaration and provides debris clean-up assistance, the Army Corps of Engineers may be brought in to conduct large scale clean-up including asbestos testing and demolition work. This process is currently being explored, and more information will be available in the coming weeks.Major Disaster Declaration: In the event that FEMA declares a Major Disaster Declaration and provides debris clean-up assistance, the Army Corps of Engineers may be brought in to conduct large scale clean-up including asbestos testing and demolition work. This process is currently being explored, and more information will be available in the coming weeks.

• Obtain an asbestos survey: This is a Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency (SRCAA) requirement to check for the presence of asbestos. This must be done by an AHERA-certified building inspector. See the Spokane Complex Fire Fact Sheet
• Provide notification to Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency (SRCAA) by filing a Notice of Intent (NOI). This can be done online by the homeowner or the contractor who conducted the survey.
  File online: Asbestos NOI & Payment Portal - Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency
• Once you are ready to apply for your permit, please submit a completed Demolition Permit Application to PermitTeam@spokanecity.org.
  Note: The neighborhood notification period and expanded historic preservation, engineering, and urban forestry review is not required for demolition permits specific to structures damaged by the fires. A licensed contractor is required due to potential presence of hazardous materials.
• Landscaping/Tree Debris: A demolition permit is not required to clear landscaping or debris such as shrubs and trees, but this debris should not be disturbed or disposed of until after completing an asbestos assessment. Visit our Solid Waste Services website for more information.
• If your home was damaged by smoke but not destroyed: Please consult the FEMA Homeowner's guide when determining how to proceed with interior cleanup assessment

• Consult with your insurance company: Verify any requirements and limitations with your insurance company before seeking out a design professional.
• Create Construction Documents: The City has construction documents on file for homes built between mid-2020 and 2026. If your house was built prior to 2020, you may need to consult with a design professional to produce your construction documents. An architect or design professional is not required for residential projects, but plans will need to provide sufficient detail to be reviewed by City staff.
  • Reusing Existing Foundations or Basements: If you choose to reuse your existing foundation or basement, you will need to hire a structural engineer to determine whether the foundation is suitable to be reused and is capable of supporting the new structure.
• Apply for your Permit: Contact the Development Services Center Permit Team for assistance with applying for your permit. Email us at: PermitTeam@spokanecity.org.

Wildfire debris can contain many types of hazardous substances that can easily become airborne and inhaled, including asbestos fibers.

• Wildfire Debris Disposal Information available on the City of Spokane Solid Waste website
• SRCAA’s Spokane Complex Fire Fact Sheet available on the Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency website
• Vehicle Debris: We recommend contacting your homeowners and auto insurance providers to determine whether additional assessment of damaged vehicles is required and whether your insurance covers removal of these items.
• More information can be found on the Spokane Regional Health District wildfire rebuilding website.

More information can be found on the Spokane Regional Health District wildfire rebuilding website. After a Wildfire: SRHD

Even if the fire destroyed a structure, there may be remaining materials that require review for safe demolition and disposal. The clean-up/demolition permit ensures that all potential hazards are removed and that your demolition will cover all the work needed for your property to be ready for reconstruction.

Yes, the City will be allowing temporary housing solutions within certain limitations. Please contact the Development Services Center to discuss your specific housing situation.

Development Serives Center
Phone: 509.625.6300
Email: PermitTeam@spokanecity.org

Please contact the City of Spokane Development Services Center
Phone: 509.625.6300
Email: PermitTeam@spokanecity.org
In-Person: City Hall Third Floor, 808 W Spokane Falls Blvd. Spokane WA 99201.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Wednesday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Additional information can be found on the City of Spokane Wildfire Information webpage.