Custom Home Feasibility in Bellevue, WA

A feasibility study identifies the regulatory, environmental, and site-specific factors that determine what can be built on a property in Bellevue. Bellevue’s zoning, critical area regulations, and steep-slope standards require careful evaluation before design begins. Our feasibility analysis for Bellevue includes:

• Zoning, allowable uses, and development standards (Bellevue Land Use Code)

• Setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage

• Critical areas (steep slopes, erosion hazards, landslide-prone areas, streams, wetlands, and flood zones)

• Shoreline regulations along Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish, and local streams

• Tree retention, significant tree rules, and vegetation conservation requirements

• Sewer, water, and utility availability (Bellevue Utilities and PSE)

• Preliminary stormwater considerations under Bellevue’s Stormwater Engineering Standards

• Access requirements, driveway slope limits, and fire apparatus considerations

• High-level grading and site suitability for sloped or narrow lots

Our feasibility reports determine site buildability and outline what is required for permitting through Bellevue Development Services.

Civil Engineering for Custom Home Sites in Bellevue

Once feasibility confirms the site can support development, we provide complete civil engineering services to meet Bellevue’s requirements. This includes:

• Site plans meeting Bellevue Development Services submittal standards

• Grading plans with slope analysis and retaining wall considerations

• Stormwater design (flow control, infiltration feasibility, and tightline requirements)

• Infiltration testing coordination based on soil conditions

• Driveway alignment and slope compliance

• Utility design for sewer, water, and power routing

• Erosion and sediment control plans

• Earthwork calculations

• Right-of-way improvements when required by Transportation or Utilities

• Construction documents prepared for Bellevue’s consolidated permit review

Our plans support the architectural design while meeting all city engineering and environmental standards.

Permit Management & Project Coordination in Bellevue

Bellevue’s permit process is detailed and often involves multiple departments. We manage this process to reduce review delays:

• Preparing complete permit packages

• Responding to correction comments from Planning, Utilities, and Transportation

• Coordinating with surveyors, geotechnical engineers, arborists, architects, and builders

• Monitoring review timelines and required resubmittals

• Ensuring compliance with Bellevue Land Use Code and Engineering Standards

This coordination helps maintain predictable schedules during pre-construction.

Common Bellevue-Specific Constraints

Steep Slopes & Geologic Hazards

Bellevue contains many sloped areas, especially Somerset, Cougar Mountain, Lakemont, and West Bellevue, which often require geotechnical reports.

Significant Tree Protection

Tree retention requirements can influence building footprint, driveway location, and grading.

Stormwater Regulations

Bellevue’s stormwater standards frequently require engineered solutions, tightlines, or infiltration-based designs depending on soil characteristics.

Shoreline Restrictions

Projects near Lake Washington or Lake Sammamish require additional buffers, height limits, and shoreline setback considerations.

Urban Infill Conditions

Older neighborhoods and redevelopment sites often require precise grading and utility coordination.

Identifying these constraints early ensures more accurate planning and design.

Start Your Bellevue Custom Home Feasibility Review

A successful custom home project begins with accurate information and a clear understanding of Bellevue’s regulations. McInnis Engineering provides feasibility studies, civil engineering, and permit management to help homeowners and builders move through Bellevue’s review process efficiently.

Contact us to begin a feasibility assessment or discuss your Bellevue site.