Navigating Commercial Building Codes in Spokane

If you’re planning a commercial building in Spokane, one of the most important—and often overlooked—steps is making sure your project aligns with all local building codes and regulations. At Stimson Contracting, we’ve guided dozens of clients through the maze of permits, inspections, and code requirements, and we know from experience: getting this part right is key to avoiding delays, cost overruns, and compliance headaches.

Whether you’re building a shop, warehouse, storefront, or office, Spokane County (and the City of Spokane) has specific commercial building codes designed to ensure safety, functionality, and long-term performance. And while these codes can seem complex, the process doesn’t have to be difficult—especially when you work with a builder who understands the system.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the essentials of navigating commercial building codes in Spokane—from zoning and permitting to structural, fire, and energy code compliance.

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Zoning Regulations

2. Site Plan and Land Use Requirements

3. Permitting for Commercial Projects

4. Building Code Categories and Classifications

5. Structural and Engineering Requirements

6. Fire Code and Safety Standards

7. Energy Code and Mechanical Systems

8. Accessibility and ADA Compliance

9. Inspections and Final Approvals

10. Conclusion: Build Smart, Stay Compliant

1. Understanding Zoning Regulations

Before you even start designing your building, you need to make sure your property is zoned correctly for your intended use. Spokane County and the City of Spokane divide properties into zones such as:

• Light industrial

• Commercial

• Agricultural

• Mixed-use

• Residential (limited commercial use allowed)

Zoning impacts what you can build, how large the building can be, how it can be used, and even what parking or landscaping is required. We help our clients verify zoning compliance right from the start to avoid costly redesigns.

2. Site Plan and Land Use Requirements

A commercial project requires a detailed site plan that shows how your building will interact with the land. This includes:

• Building footprint and setbacks

• Parking and driveways

• Stormwater drainage

• Landscaping

• Pedestrian and ADA access

Site plans must meet both local land use regulations and building codes, which is why working with an experienced design-build team is critical during this phase.

3. Permitting for Commercial Projects

You’ll need a commercial building permit before any construction can begin. This process typically includes:

• Architectural and structural drawings

• Civil engineering plans

• Energy code calculations

• Fire safety plans

• Mechanical and electrical drawings

We handle all permitting and submission requirements for our clients, ensuring applications are complete and code-compliant from day one.

4. Building Code Categories and Classifications

Spokane follows the International Building Code (IBC) with local amendments. Depending on your building’s use and occupancy, different standards apply. For example:

• Assembly (restaurants, churches)

• Business (offices, clinics)

• Storage or Industrial (warehouses, workshops)

• Mercantile (retail)

Each classification affects requirements for fire protection, exits, accessibility, and structural design.

5. Structural and Engineering Requirements

Spokane’s climate means your commercial structure must meet strict structural requirements, including:

• Snow load (often 30–70 psf depending on elevation)

• Wind load (based on exposure and location)

• Seismic considerations (yes, we’re in a seismic zone)

• Truss and foundation engineering

• Soil stability and grading

We provide engineered drawings for every commercial build to ensure full compliance and durability.

6. Fire Code and Safety Standards

Fire safety is one of the most critical parts of any commercial code review. Depending on your building type and size, you may need:

• Fire-rated walls and doors

• Automatic sprinkler systems

• Fire alarms and exit signage

• Emergency lighting

• Fire hydrant or water access coordination

We work closely with Spokane fire officials to make sure your building meets current fire safety standards.

7. Energy Code and Mechanical Systems

Washington State has a strict commercial energy code, which covers:

• Insulation values

• HVAC system performance

• Lighting efficiency

• Solar-ready infrastructure (in some cases)

• Air leakage prevention

We help you meet these standards without blowing your budget—often with cost-effective upgrades like spray foam insulation and energy-efficient HVAC units.

8. Accessibility and ADA Compliance

Every commercial building must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. Spokane enforces ADA accessibility requirements for:

• Ramps and entryways

• Restrooms

• Parking spaces

• Pathways and floor transitions

• Door widths and handle types

We incorporate these design standards early in the planning process so there are no surprises during inspection.

9. Inspections and Final Approvals

Once construction begins, your project will go through a series of inspections including:

• Footings and foundations

• Framing

• Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical

• Fire safety systems

• Final inspection for occupancy

We coordinate these inspections with the city or county and ensure each stage meets code before moving forward.

10. Conclusion: Build Smart, Stay Compliant

Navigating Spokane’s commercial building codes doesn’t have to be a roadblock—it just takes the right planning and a partner who knows the system. At Stimson Contracting, we specialize in designing and building code-compliant commercial structures that meet local regulations while maximizing functionality, value, and performance.

From initial site planning to final occupancy, we’re with you every step of the way—handling the red tape so you can focus on growing your business.