Current Planning

Whatcom County Government offices are temporarily closed to public “in person” services. (Our lobby/Permit Centers will be closed to the public.) However, our Current Planning staff are all working and “open for business”.We will continue to provide services for application processing and staff will be available to assist customers and the public via telephone, email and video conferencing options.

We are accepting all applications digitally. To submit an application or permit--email epermits@co.whatcom.wa.us with your application materials. A Current Planning staff member will be assigned to your project and provide you with a project number and applicable fees. 

  • Pay for my permit--To pay for your permit or application you will receive an email from staff with the permit balance due.  Once you have received this information you can pay for your permit by the following options:
    • Credit or Debit Card. Call 360-778-5930 please leave a message for the cashier  to arrange payment.  Be sure to leave your name, phone number, permit/application number and site address on your message--they will get back to you ASAP to process the payment. (there is a 2.35% transaction fee on credit cards, $1.00 for debit cards.)
    • Mail a check payable to Whatcom County Planning to 5280 Northwest Drive, Bellingham WA 98226. (please include your permit number on the check)
Responsibilities
The Current Planning Section processes applications to manage land development for upcoming projects in conjunction with federal, state, and county regulations as they relate to the physical and economic health of our county.

Tasks include zoning verification and administration of the Whatcom County Zoning Ordinance (Title 20) and the Whatcom County Land Division Ordinance (Title 21) and other related actions affecting land division.