Your feedback helped create better tools for permitting and project transparency




title community development

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*

January 29, 2025

*Kitsap County Streamlines Permitting Process with New Tools and Strategies*

*PORT ORCHARD, Wash.* – Navigating the permitting process can be complicated and overwhelming. That’s why Kitsap County’s Department of Community Development is taking significant steps to make it more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly.

“In Kitsap, we are evaluating our work through a lens of continuous process improvement,” said Christine Rolfes, Chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. “We are committed to fulfilling our stewardship responsibilities to the people, communities, lands, and waterways of our community in the most effective and forward-thinking way possible.”

 

*It’s About Serving Our Community*

In 2023, the department conducted a community survey to gather feedback on the permitting process. Later that year, a consultant was hired to help identify efficiencies, strategies, and enhancements to better support constituents. A series of listening sessions with staff, industry professionals, and community members revealed several challenges. In response, the Permit Review Efficiency Plan (PREP) was developed to address concerns such as:


* A disconnect regarding application requirements.
* Many permits submitted with missing information and errors.
* A fragmented review process by Community Development staff.
* Limited staff accessibility.
* A lack of transparency about projects underway.

Recognizing that nearly all permitting interactions now occur online, the department began developing and refining new tools to make the process easier, faster, and more transparent for everyone.

 

*How We’re Making Things Better*

Starting this year, customers will notice the following changes:

*Better Tools and Information*


* A new mapping tool that identifies conditions on parcels that might affect development.
* Comprehensive intake and review checklists to help customers ensure applications are complete upon submittal.

*Clearer Application Process*


* Increased and improved communication to provide the information needed for complete, correct applications.
* Clear guidelines to ensure applications are ready for review from the start.

*Faster Reviews*

For certain permits, the department now offers:


* Two six-week review periods.
* Clearer timelines and expectations.
* Intake screenings to identify issues early.
* More opportunities to resolve project concerns with staff.

*Transparent and Accessible Public Information*


* A Project Navigator tool highlighting high-interest community projects that require public notices.
* A Permit Explorer map allowing the public to view building and land-use activity permits, such as timber harvest activity, with extensive search and data capabilities.

The department is also working to comply with Senate Bill 5290, which requires local governments to establish clear timelines for processing and issuing permit decisions. These timelines range from 65 to 170 days, depending on the type of application.

“By redesigning our processes and adding new digital tools, we expect to significantly reduce the time it takes to get from application to approval,” said David Lynam, Interim Assistant Director. “This is about working smarter to serve our community better.”

*
Looking Forward*

These initiatives represent a significant step toward a more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly permitting process. The Department of Community Development remains committed to a built environment that aligns with safety standards, environmental protections, and community needs through continuous improvement and stakeholder engagement.

“Every permit represents someone’s dream project – whether it’s a family building their first home or a business expanding to serve our community,” said Director of Community Development Rafe Wysham. “We’re committed to making this process as smooth and easy as possible.”

For more information about the Permit Review Efficiency Plan or other initiatives, please contact the Department of Community Development at 360.337.5777 or email [email protected].

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*About Kitsap County*

"Located in Washington, "Kitsap County [ [link removed] ]" is home to over 270,000 residents across 566 square miles, making it the seventh-largest county in the state. Bordered by the Hood Canal and Puget Sound, Kitsap offers residents, businesses, and visitors a stunning natural beauty and a unique blend of urban amenities and rural charm. The county includes the cities of Bremerton, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and Bainbridge Island, as well as many unincorporated communities. " 

"Kitsap County is led by a three-member Board of Commissioners that is committed to providing high-quality services and amenities that enhance the quality of life for all residents while fostering economic growth, environmental conservation, and sustainable development." 

"For more information about Kitsap County services and initiatives, visit "kitsap.gov [ [link removed] ]" or follow us on social media "@KitsapWa [ [link removed] ] and @KitsapCountyWA. 

*Connect with us*

Stay informed about the latest news from Kitsap County. Visit our website [ [link removed] ], follow us on social media, or sign up for our updates [ [link removed] ].

*Links in this document*

"[email protected]: [email protected]. <[email protected]>"

"Kitsap County: "www.kitsap.gov [ [link removed] ]

"@KitsapWA: "[link removed]

"Community Development Website: "www.kitsap.gov/dcd [ [link removed] ]

"Sign up for our updates: "[link removed]

 

*Contact Information*

*Alicia Adler, Communications & Outreach Coordinator, Department of Community Development, [email protected]*

*Krista Carlson, Communications Manager & PIO, Board of County Commissioners [email protected], (564) 222-0375*





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