Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $250–$1,200 Fees combine building, electrical, and plumbing sub-permits based on project value.
Fee Method Valuation-based
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What's Required in Washington

  • Floor plan showing existing vs. proposed layout.
  • Electrical plan showing GFCI outlets and dedicated circuits.
  • Plumbing plan if moving the sink or gas lines.
  • Mechanical permit if installing a new range hood/ventilation.
  • Compliance with energy conservation codes (insulation/lighting).
  • Contractor must be licensed in the District of Columbia.

Do You Need a Permit to Remodel a Kitchen in Washington?

It depends on what you're changing, not on the word “remodel.” Washington lists kitchen remodels as permit-required work, and in practice the permit attaches to the plumbing, electrical, and structural scope — not to cosmetic swaps. Permit fees typically run $250–$1,200 (valuation-based), issued by the Department of Buildings. A remodel that moves the sink, adds circuits, relocates the range, or opens a wall is firmly in permit territory — and often means separate trade permits rather than one ticket.

Kitchen Work That Usually Doesn't Need a Permit

The cosmetic layer is generally yours to change freely: swapping cabinets in the same footprint, new countertops, flooring, backsplash, paint, and replacing appliances that use existing hookups. The moment the project touches what's behind the finishes — supply lines, drains, gas, new circuits, walls, or venting — it stops being cosmetic in the city's eyes. If your remodel straddles the line, describe the full scope to the Department of Buildings up front; retrofitting a permit onto half-finished work is the expensive path.

How to Get a Kitchen Remodel Permit in Washington

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Step 1: Detailed Plans

Create scale drawings of the new kitchen layout including cabinet and appliance locations.

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Step 2: Trade Permits

Ensure your plumber and electrician file their specific sub-permits linked to your main permit.

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Step 3: Submission

Submit through the Access DC portal for a 'Residential Alteration' permit.

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Step 4: Rough-In Inspections

Schedule inspections for plumbing and electrical before closing the walls.

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Step 5: Final Inspection

A final walkthrough to ensure all fixtures and finishes meet safety codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but you must reside in the home and still pass all required inspections.
If no plumbing, gas, or electrical lines are moved, a permit may not be required for cosmetic cabinet replacement.
A plumbing permit is required if you are installing a dishwasher where one did not previously exist.
Only if the work goes beyond cosmetic scope. Plumbing, electrical, or structural changes require permits in Washington; cabinet, countertop, and flooring swaps generally don't. Fees typically run $250–$1,200.