Development Code Compliance
The Thurston County Code Compliance Team is responsible for protecting the health, safety, and welfare of our residents as outlined in the Thurston County Code (TCC) Title 26 . Reports are community driven and addressed according to the impact on the environment and public safety.
Incidents must be submitted through our online portal by clicking the "Report An Event Button" under the topic you are concerned with. You may also visit us in person during our office hours from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Check in at the kiosk in the front lobby at our County office. We do not accept complaints over the phone.
Potential Code Compliance Violations
Once received, Code Compliance collects basic property information and assigns a case number. The concern is then routed to a Compliance Coordinator for investigation.
Accessory Structure - Unpermitted
Conducting construction or modification of accessory structures without the required County permit or approval violates County Code.
Please refer to 14.18.030 (1) for additional information.
Building - Unpermitted
Conducting construction of any building intended for habitation without the required County permit or approval violates County Code.
Please refer to Title 14 for additional information.
Camping / RV Park - Unpermitted
Operating a campground or RV park without the required County special use permit or approval violates County Code.
Please refer to 20.54.070 (4.5) for additional information.
Clearing & Grading - Unpermitted
Performing clearing or grading of land without the required County permit or approval violates County Code.
Please refer to 14.37.030 (J103.2) for additional information.
Development in a Shoreline
Conducting development in a shoreline area without the required County permit or approval violates County Code.
Please refer to Title 19 for additional information.
Fencing In A Critical Area
Installing fencing in a critical area without the required County permit or approval violates County Code.
Please refer to 24.60.040 for additional information.
Installation Of A Manufactured Home Without Permit
Placing a manufactured home without the required County permit or approval violates County Code.
Please refer to 14.44 for additional information.
Junk Vehicles
Storing junk vehicles without proper County approval, including exceeding allowed quantities, failing to screen them from public view, or storing them outside in restricted areas, violates County Code.
In rural areas, properties of one-half acre or less may have up to two junk vehicles, and properties above one-half acre may have up to four. In Lacey, Olympia, and Tumwater Urban Growth Areas, junk vehicles cannot be stored outside for more than 30 days, except for special interest vehicles actively being restored, which must be screened from the public right of way.
Please refer to 21.57.060 (C)(1-2), 22.40.060 (B)(1), and 23.40.060 (F)(4)(a) for additional information.
Living In An RV
Occupying a recreational vehicle without the required County approval violates County Code.
Please refer to 24.34.030, 21.57.060 (C)(2), 22.40.060 (B)(2), and 23.04.040 (B)(1)(c) for additional information.
Logging - Unpermitted
Conducting logging activities in excess of 5000 board feet or within critical areas without the required County permit or approval violates County Code.
Please refer to 17.25 for additional information.
Something Else You’re Worried About?
A different department within the County may investigate these matters. Click below to report or learn more.
| Environmental Health: Sanitation, mold, wells, septic systems, food safety, and food trucks . |
| Air Quality: Smoke, pollutants, odors, and burn bans . |
| Law Enforcement: Criminal activity, noise complaints, trespassing . |
| Electrical Code: Permits and code violations for electrical work . |
Matters that fall outside of Code Compliance and will not be investigated.
| Civil Disputes: Property line issues, unpaid bills, title disputes, landlord-tenant conflicts, foreclosure, contract breaches, or fraud. |
| Private Disputes: Personal disagreements or private contracts not involving County codes. |
| Routine Maintenance: Yard work, painting, landscaping, or cosmetic improvements that don’t violate codes. |
| Noise from Private Activities: Noise that doesn’t clearly break local ordinances. |
| Neighbor Complaints: Issues unrelated to code, like aesthetics or personal preferences. |
| Permitted Work: Construction, electrical, or plumbing projects with valid permits and inspections. |
| Other Non-Code Concerns: Matters better handled by courts, mediators, or other agencies. |
Public Records Notice:
The information contained in complaints is a public record subject to disclosure under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW42.56) and may be requested and inspected by any person. The identity of a complaining party (complainant) may be withheld from public inspection at the Agency’s discretion if the complainant indicates that disclosure will endanger any person’s life, physical safety, or property. However, if a court case is filed as a result of this complaint, the complainant’s identity may be disclosed regardless of a request that it be withheld.