Custom Home Feasibility in Pierce County, WA
A feasibility study identifies the regulatory, environmental, and site-specific factors that determine what can be built on a property in unincorporated Pierce County. Pierce County’s zoning, critical area standards, and stormwater regulations can significantly influence custom home design. Our feasibility analysis for Pierce County includes:
Zoning, allowable uses, and development standards (Pierce County Code Title 18A)
Required setbacks, height limits, lot coverage, and rural density restrictions
Critical areas (steep slopes, landslide hazards, erosion areas, wetlands, streams, floodplains, and aquifer recharge areas)
Shoreline management requirements
Tree retention and vegetation clearing limitations
Sewer and water availability (or verification of septic/well requirements)
Preliminary stormwater requirements under the Pierce County Stormwater Management and Site Development Manual
Access, private road standards, and fire apparatus requirements
High-level grading, driveway feasibility, and overall site suitability
Our feasibility reports outline buildability and what is required for permitting through Pierce County PPW (Planning & Public Works).
Civil Engineering for Custom Home Sites in Pierce County
Once feasibility confirms that the site can support development, we provide complete civil engineering services tailored to Pierce County’s requirements. This includes:
Site plans meeting PPW submittal standards
Grading plans with cut/fill analysis and slope considerations
Stormwater design (infiltration feasibility, dispersion, flow control, and conveyance)
Coordination of infiltration testing and soil evaluation
Driveway and access design, including private road compliance
Utility design for water, sewer, or septic integration
Erosion and sediment control plans
Earthwork calculations
Right-of-way improvements when required by Pierce County
Construction documents prepared for full permit review
Our plans support architectural design while meeting county stormwater and critical area standards.
Permit Management & Project Coordination in Pierce County
Pierce County’s permit process can involve multiple review groups, requiring coordinated documentation. We manage this process to help maintain predictable timelines:
Preparing complete permit application packages
Responding to correction comments from Planning, Fire Prevention, and Site Development reviewers
Coordinating with surveyors, geotechnical engineers, septic designers, well drillers, architects, and builders
Tracking review timelines and resubmittal requirements
Ensuring compliance with Pierce County Code and the Stormwater Management Manual
This organization reduces delays and ensures documentation remains aligned with reviewer expectations.
Common Pierce County–Specific Constraints
Wetlands, Streams & Buffer Requirements
Pierce County includes significant wetland areas—especially in Graham, South Hill, Frederickson, and Key Peninsula—that may reduce the buildable area.
Steep Slopes & Erosion Hazards
Certain areas in Gig Harbor, Tacoma outskirts, and canyon-adjacent parcels require geotechnical evaluation.
Septic & Soil Limitations
Many rural areas require septic systems; soil type and water table height can impact building location and clearing limits.
Stormwater Requirements
The county often requires infiltration systems, engineered dispersion, or flow control based on site conditions.
Access & Private Road Standards
Long driveways, easements, and private road upgrades may be required to meet fire access standards.
Evaluating these items early helps prevent costly redesigns and delays.
Start Your Pierce County Custom Home Feasibility Review
A successful custom home project in Pierce County begins with accurate feasibility and clear regulatory direction. McInnis Engineering provides feasibility studies, civil engineering, and permit management to support homeowners and builders throughout the review process.
Contact us to begin a feasibility assessment or discuss your Pierce County property.