FAQs • Pierce County, WA • CivicEngage

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Where does Planning and Public Works have jurisdiction?: The department has regulatory jurisdiction over unincorporated Pierce County (the areas of the County that are outside of an incorporated city). You can use our About My Property website to see which jurisdiction a parcel is under.

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PPW Development Center - General Information

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1. Where does Planning and Public Works have jurisdiction?: The department has regulatory jurisdiction over unincorporated Pierce County (the areas of the County that are outside of an incorporated city). You can use our About My Property website to see which jurisdiction a parcel is under.

2. Will Pierce County come out and trim branches or remove dangerous trees on private property?: No. Pierce County cannot remove branches or trees on private property. A property owner can but should check with the Development Center to ensure the tree is not endangered.

3. Where do I report suspected drug activity?: Calls should be to the Sheriff Department's administrative line, (253) 798-4721.

4. Who regulates abandoned watercraft and derelict vessels?: The Sheriff's Department.

5. Do I need house numbers at the beginning of a long driveway access to my home?: Yes, if the house numbers cannot be plainly visible or legible from the street or road fronting the property. IRC Section 321.1

6. Does Pierce County warranty my home after it is final approved by the building inspector?: No, generally your new home comes with a warranty through the builder.

7. How do I resolve what I believe is a problem with my new home?: Contact your builder and or warranty program and you can register a complaint with the Department of Labor & Industries.

8. Can Pierce County help me if the builder refuses to do anything to correct my problem?: No, generally it is a civil issue between the homeowner and the contractor.

9. The front door on my home has a deadbolt that I have to use a key to lock & unlock from both the inside and out side, does that meet code?: No, the deadbolt should be readily openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort. IRC Section R311.4.4