Frequently Asked Questions

The first step is to submit the appropriate complete application form to the Development Services Department along with the applicable fees and the required number of copies for all submittal items. Applications can be obtained online at (Development Applications) or from the Permit Center located in the Development Services Department.

The Development Services Department conducts two application checks to ensure that applications are complete before staff begins the development review process. Prior to accepting an application, staff will conduct a "Counter Complete" review of the submittal package. This initial Counter Complete review ensures that all required submittal items are contained within the package. If each item on the submittal requirement list has been submitted, the application will be accepted for further review.

Prior to processing the application, the Development Services Department shall determine that the application is "Technically Complete". A Technically Complete application must contain all information required by the applicable development regulations as they apply to the proposed land use action.

Within twenty-eight calendar days after receiving a project permit application, the City will mail or personally provide a determination to the applicant which states either that the application is complete or that the application is incomplete and what is necessary to make the application complete.

To see this section of code, click the link below:

OHMC 18.20.330

The length of time needed for review will depend on the type of permit and the completeness of the application; generally, the initial staff review of the project will take an average of two weeks, depending on staff workload. However, a final decision regarding the project permit application will be made within 120 days after the applicant has been notified that the application is complete, except as otherwise provided in subsection two of 18.20.410 of the Oak Harbor Municipal Code (OHMC) (see note).

Note: Any time period during which the applicant has been requested to correct plans, perform required studies, or provide additional required information is not included in the 120 day period.

To see this section of code, visit OHMC 18.20.410

Projects requiring public hearings take considerably more time than administrative decisions. Staff may assist you in outlining the process and timeline required for permits that require a public hearing.

No, a pre-application review is not required; however, the pre-application is strongly recommended for all applicants as a low-cost way of identifying key issues prior to full site plan development.

Public notice is required for projects that are a Type II review process and above. The type of public notice varies by the review process type but it may be accomplished by posting the property with twenty-four-inch by thirty-six-inch signs, mailing notices to contiguous property owners and/or property owners within 300 feet, and publishing the notice in the local newspaper.

To see this section of code, click the link below:

OHMC 18.20.370

Two major types of permits are issued by Development Services - land use and construction. Projects often require both land use and construction permits, and they may be applied for separately or together.

Land use permits assure that structures conform to the current zoning code and comply with environmental regulations, such as the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) and Oak Harbor's Shoreline Master Program.

Construction-related permits provide reviews of the structural and fire/life safety elements of a project, based on national, regional, and local building codes.

You can do research on your property by visiting the Development Services Department or by viewing our citywide zoning map.

The Development Services Department is located on the lower floor of Oak Harbor City Hall, 865 SE Barrington Drive. Our hours are 8 am to 4:30 pm.