Plan file requirements
Digial File Requirements
Plan Files: Single page PDF. Each sheet/page of the plans shall be uploaded as a separate file and in the correct orientation. Plan files will be rejected if uploaded as a multi-page file or the incorrect orientation. If you create PDF files, please create Smart PDFs or Vector PDFs (Text searchable, maintain layers and retain calibration settings). We will not accept Scanned Images of Raster PDFs from design professionals.
Document Files: Multipage PDF. All files required as part of the application submission, other than plan files, like Structural Calculations, Geotechnical Reports, Device Specifications, Project Narratives and Stormwater Reports, shall be uploaded as multi-page documents in the the Documents Folder. Searchable PDF files are preferred for calculations, reports and other non-plan files.
How to Create a PDF File
To assist our customers, here are some steps to create a PDF that you can use with Microsoft Office:
- With the Non PDF file open.
- Choose the File menu and pick Export.
- From this option, click Create PDF/XPS Document, and then from the right pane, click the Create PDF/XPS button.
You can also use Save As and then choose a PDF file or Print and then select Print to PDF. For Apple and Mac users or other file types that are not in the Microsoft Office suite, there are many free PDF creation programs that you can use to convert files to a PDF.
Plan Size Requirements
For Planning and Engineering submittals, the minimum plan size is 22” x 34”
For Building, Grading and Fire submittals, the minimum plan size is 11” x 17”
Border and Reserved Space
Approval Stamp Requirements
It is difficult to predict each individual or company’s unique border sizes and title block areas. The following locations are offered as guides to ensure that when viewed, the Approval Stamp is visible and not truncated.
| 8.5″x11″ | Upper right corner 0.4″ from the right edge & 0.4″ from the top | 2″x2″ |
| 11×17″ | Upper right corner 0.4″ from the right edge & 0.4″ from the top | 2″x2″ |
| 22×34″ | Upper right corner 3.25″ from the right edge & 0.5″ from the top | 3″x3″ |
| 24″x36″ | Upper right corner 3.25″ from the right edge & 0.5″ from the top | 3″x3″ |
Below are a few examples of where the approval stamp would be placed on a file.
8 1/2″ x 11″ Document File
11″ x 17″ Plan Page
22″ x 34″ or 24″ x 36″ Plan Page
File Type Requirements
Below is a list of the file types we can accept in each folder.
If you create PDF files, please create “Smart PDFs” or Vector PDFs (i.e. text searchable, maintain layers and retain calibration settings). We will not accept “Scanned Images” of Raster PDFs from design professionals.
Acceptable Formats
Plans: PDF, ZIP
Documents: PDF, ZIP
Electronic Stamps and Signature Requirements
When applicable, files must be electronically stamped with a signature per Washington Statutes and Washington Administrative Rules. There are specific provisions for electronic signatures within the Rules and Regulations. Architects and Engineers are responsible to meet the rules. The links provided are for further information:
Drawing Scale Requirements
- All plans must be drawn to scale.
- All plans must be calibrated. This calibration shall be saved in the plan ensuring it is available to the reviewer.
- Each sheet must have an independent scale i.e. 1in = 40ft or 3/16in = 1ft
- When more than one scale is used on a sheet, an independent scale must accompany the applicable detail.
Layer Requirements
- The layers must be 100 or less. Please clean and purge all extraneous layers from the plan file.
- Remove/Reduce any shading or hashing in the file as it causes performance issues. If we are not able to open or navigate in the file it will be returned to you to correct.
If you have any questions, please contact us so we can help.