Before the tear-off
When a Seattle reroof needs a permit
Seattle's re-roof rules split one- and two-family homes from commercial and multi-family work. The fee, when it applies, is on the City affidavit.
One- and two-family homes and townhouses
A permit is not required for re-roof work at one- and two-family homes and townhouses when no changes are made to the building envelope other than adding or replacing insulation, and the insulation value matches or beats what is already there. (Seattle SDCI)
The Roof Replacement Affidavit also exempts roof recover, roof replacement for single-family, duplex or townhouse, and patching or replacement of roofing under 500 square feet in any six-month period. (Seattle SDCI)
When a permit is required
- You need a re-roof permit when you repair an area greater than 500 square feet, or replace roofing materials on commercial and multi-family projects. (Seattle SDCI)
- The required permit fee on the Roof Replacement Affidavit is $99.50. (Seattle SDCI, read Oct 19, 2026)
Questions for the roofer
- Is this a one- or two-family home, or a multi-family or commercial building?
- Are you changing anything in the building envelope besides insulation?
- If a permit or affidavit is needed, who files it, and is that fee in the price?
Next
See reroof permits in the region and Washington roofer registration.
Sources
We read each source on October 19, 2026. Rules and prices change, so check the linked page before you rely on a number.
Written by the Puget Sound Emergency Roofers team. We list businesses; we do not employ, bond or insure them. Spot a mistake? Use the claim page to tell us.