Doing business in Kitsap County, as in any other part of the country, requires proper licensing and permitting. Business licensing requirements in the county follow the same processes that you would encounter in any jurisdiction. The building permit process in Kitsap County is extremely business-friendly. Environmental regulations are consistent with federal EPA laws with no local hidden surprises. The area’s airshed is cleaner than many areas, permitting business activities here that are not possible elsewhere.

Many of the license and permit applications required in Kitsap County and the state of Washington can be completed online, streamlining the process and enabling you to complete these important steps prior to any relocation.

Business Licenses

A new corporation locating in the State of Washington must file for Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State's office, which will issue a UBI number. 

All business must apply for a Master Business License from the Washington State Department of Licensing, which registers the business with the state departments of Revenue, Licensing, Labor and Industries, Employment Security, Secretary of State, and the Washington State Department of Commerce.

Cities in Kitsap County, and the county itself, have their own business licensing requirements, based on the business location and the type of business.

Building Codes

The State of Washington adopted the 1997 edition of the Uniform Building Codes as amended by the Washington State Building Codes Council for all occupancies and jurisdictions according to the Institute for Business and Home Safety.

Air Quality Regulations

Businesses need to be registered with Puget Sound Clean Air Agency if they have operations that generate air emissions such as dust, smoke, solvent fumes, or odors.

Water Quality Regulations

The Environmental Permitting Services arm of the Office of Regulatory Assistance is organized to help citizens, businesses, and project applicants understand and navigate Washington’s environmental permitting processes. Environmental permitting assistance is one of services provided by the Governor's Office of Regulatory Assistance.