How to respond to Tacoma’s Review Comment Memo

How to resubmit to the City of Tacoma after plan check corrections, in the words of Tacoma’s own page. Each fact links to its source.

From Tacoma’s own page, read October 31, 2026: tacomapermits.org

What the City of Tacoma calls it

The City of Tacoma calls its correction letter “Review Comment Memo”.

Source: tacomapermits.org

How to resubmit after Tacoma plan check corrections

  1. Log in at Tacoma Permits (ACA): https://aca-prod.accela.com/tacoma/Default.aspx
  2. Select the “Review Comment Memo” to view/download to your computer.
  3. View/ download the documents listed in the review comment memo.
  4. Prepare review response letter.
  5. Submit revisions & response letter.

From Tacoma’s own page, read October 31, 2026: tacomapermits.org

Codes its letters cite

Building code named on the city’s pages: 2021 Code Editions and Amendments Effective March 15, 2024.

Source: sbcc.wa.gov

Local amendments to the building code

Any city or county may amend the state building code; amendments that affect houses and apartments need State Building Code Council approval first.

Source: app.leg.wa.gov

Official links

Links and facts checked on October 28, 2026.

Washington rules every plan check here follows

These come from Washington law and state agencies, so they apply in Tacoma as well. Each links to its source.

Building code in force

Washington's current building code is based on the 2021 model codes and took effect on March 15, 2024.

Source: Washington State Building Code Council, checked October 31, 2026

Next edition

The next update, based on the 2024 codes, is scheduled to take effect on May 3, 2027.

Source: Washington State Building Code Council, checked October 31, 2026

Local amendments

A city or county may change the state code for its own area, but its changes cannot weaken the code's minimum standards.

Source: Washington State Legislature, RCW 19.27.040, checked October 31, 2026

Rules are locked in when you apply

A complete building permit application is reviewed under the building and zoning rules that were in effect on the date it was filed.

Source: Washington State Legislature, RCW 19.27.095, checked October 31, 2026

What a good response to Review Comment Memo has

General guidance, not the City of Tacoma’s own rules. Check its page before you resubmit.

Other Washington city guides

How we help

Send us the whole Review Comment Memo. We draft a response to every comment and list the drawing changes sheet by sheet. Your first letter is free. You review each response, then you sign and submit to the City of Tacoma yourself.

Cleared to Build is an independent service. We are not the City of Tacoma and are not affiliated with it.

Upload your correction letter

Only one comment to answer? Try the free one-comment tool.

Questions

What does the City of Tacoma call its correction letter?

The City of Tacoma calls it “Review Comment Memo”.

How do I resubmit after the City of Tacoma sends corrections?

Revise the documents and cloud each change, except on Work Order drawings. Include complete files with all sheets, not only the revised sheets.

How long does Tacoma take to review a resubmittal?

Review times change with workload. Ask the building department at (253) 591-5030.

Does Tacoma charge for another plan review?

This guide doesn’t list fees. Ask Planning and Development Services at (253) 591-5030 before you resubmit.

How many rounds of corrections can Tacoma send?

This guide doesn’t list a limit. Answering every comment fully the first time is the surest way to fewer rounds; ask Planning and Development Services at (253) 591-5030 if unsure.

Is Cleared to Build part of the City of Tacoma?

No. Cleared to Build is an independent service, not affiliated with the City of Tacoma or any permitting agency. You submit to the city yourself.