Spokane Zoning Regulations for Barndominiums

Building a barndominium in Spokane can be an exciting way to combine flexible living and workspace under one roof. But before you break ground, it’s essential to understand the zoning regulations that govern where and how you can build. At Stimson Contracting, we’ve guided many clients through Spokane County’s permitting and zoning process, and I’m here to share what you need to know to keep your project compliant and on track.

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Spokane County Zoning Districts

2. Permitted Uses vs. Conditional Uses

3. Lot Size and Density Requirements

4. Setback and Height Regulations

5. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Barndominiums

6. Special Permits: Variances and Conditional Use Permits

7. Septic, Well, and Utility Considerations

8. Environmental and Critical Area Protections

9. Navigating the Application Process

10. Conclusion: Building with Confidence

1. Understanding Spokane County Zoning Districts

Spokane County divides land into several zoning districts—residential (R), rural residential (RR), agricultural (AG), and commercial/industrial. Most barndominiums fall into:

• RR (“Rural Residential”): Minimum lot size of 1–5 acres, allows one single-family residence per parcel.

• AG (“Agricultural”): Larger parcels (10+ acres), farm buildings and a dwelling are permitted.

Check your parcel’s zoning on the Spokane County Assessor’s online GIS map to confirm which rules apply.

2. Permitted Uses vs. Conditional Uses

In most residential and rural zones, a barndominium is treated as a single-family dwelling—a permitted use. If you plan to operate a business (e.g., workshop, short-term rental), you may need a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to allow the commercial or home-based business component.

3. Lot Size and Density Requirements

Key lot standards include:

• Minimum Lot Size: 1 acre in RR zones; 10 acres in AG zones.

• Density: Typically one dwelling unit per parcel; cluster developments may allow more.

If you own a smaller lot, you’ll need to verify whether it’s legal nonconforming or if a variance is required.

4. Setback and Height Regulations

Setbacks and height limits ensure adequate spacing and sightlines:

• Front Yard Setback: 20–30 feet from the road right-of-way.

• Side Yard Setback: 5–10 feet from property lines.

• Rear Yard Setback: 15–20 feet from the back property line.

• Maximum Height: Generally 35 feet for residential structures; agricultural buildings sometimes allowed up to 50 feet.

Always confirm the exact distances on your parcel’s zoning designation sheet.

5. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Barndominiums

If you’re building a separate living unit attached to a barn or workshop, it may be classified as an Accessory Dwelling Unit:

• ADUs must be under 1,200 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling’s footprint, whichever is smaller.

• ADUs require their own address, utility hookup, and must meet building and fire code for residential occupancy.

A barndominium that integrates living and shop space under one roof avoids some ADU requirements, but still must meet single-family standards.

6. Special Permits: Variances and Conditional Use Permits

When your project doesn’t fit standard zoning—say you need reduced setbacks or more height—you can apply for:

• Variance: Relief from a specific zoning standard (setback, height, lot coverage).

• Conditional Use Permit: Allows a use not normally permitted outright (e.g., running a commercial business).

Both require public notice, hearings, and approval by the Hearings Examiner.

7. Septic, Well, and Utility Considerations

Most rural parcels rely on on-site septic systems and wells. Before building:

• Obtain a Health District approval for your septic design and well permit.

• Verify that power, gas, and water lines can be extended to your building pad.

• Plan utility easements and coordinate inspections.

Delays in health or utility permits often hold up building permits—start these early.

8. Environmental and Critical Area Protections

Spokane County protects streams, wetlands, and steep slopes. If your site touches a critical area:

• You may need environmental permitting through the County’s Land Services.

• Buffer zones (50–200 feet) often prohibit construction.

• Mitigation plans can allow limited development with habitat restoration.

Consult a site assessment early if you suspect environmental constraints.

9. Navigating the Application Process

Here’s a high-level overview:

1. Pre-Application Meeting: Meet with County planners to review your concept.

2. Site Plan Submission: Provide detailed drawings showing setbacks, building footprints, septic, and utilities.

3. Permit Review: Zoning, health, and building code review—often in parallel.

4. Public Notice & Hearing (if CUP or variance required).

5. Permit Approval & Issuance: Once all departments sign off, you receive your building permit.

Our team handles coordination with all County departments to keep things moving.

10. Conclusion: Building with Confidence

Understanding Spokane’s zoning regs before you design your barndominium saves time, money, and stress. From lot size and setbacks to ADU rules and environmental buffers, each requirement shapes your project. By working with experienced builders and planners—like the team at Stimson Contracting—you’ll navigate permitting smoothly and build a barndo that’s fully compliant and perfectly suited to your land.