Custom Home Feasibility in Tacoma, WA
A feasibility study identifies the regulatory, environmental, and site-specific factors that determine what can be built on a property in Tacoma. Tacoma’s zoning code, steep slope regulations, and stormwater requirements can significantly influence custom home design. Our feasibility analysis for Tacoma includes:
Zoning, allowable uses, and development standards (TMC Title 13)
Required setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage
Critical areas (steep slopes, erosion hazards, landslide-prone areas, wetlands, streams, flood zones)
Shoreline jurisdiction requirements along Puget Sound and Commencement Bay
Tree and vegetation protection rules
Sewer, water, and utility availability (Tacoma Water, TPU Power, TPU Wastewater)
Preliminary stormwater considerations under the Tacoma Stormwater Management Manual
Access, fire lane, and driveway slope requirements (TFD)
High-level grading and site suitability for hillside or view properties
Our feasibility reports outline the development potential of the site and define what is required for permitting through the City of Tacoma.
Civil Engineering for Custom Home Sites in Tacoma
Once feasibility confirms the site is viable, we provide complete civil engineering services tailored to Tacoma’s review standards. This includes:
Site plans meeting Tacoma Planning and Site Development submittal requirements
Grading plans with cut/fill analysis and slope stability considerations
Stormwater design (infiltration feasibility, dispersion, and flow control requirements)
Infiltration testing coordination for stormwater sizing
Driveway design, slope compliance, and hillside access evaluation
Utility design for sewer, water, and power connections
Erosion and sediment control plans
Earthwork calculations
Right-of-way or frontage improvements when required by PW Engineering
Construction documents prepared for full permit review
Our plans are designed to meet the requirements of Tacoma Planning, Public Works, and Site Development Engineering.
Permit Management & Project Coordination in Tacoma
Custom home permits in Tacoma often require coordination between several departments. We manage the process to help maintain predictable timelines:
Preparation of complete permit application packages
Responses to correction comments from multiple reviewers
Coordination with surveyors, geotechnical engineers, arborists, architects, and builders
Tracking review progress and target dates
Ensuring compliance with Tacoma Municipal Code and stormwater regulations
Managing these details early reduces delays in the pre-construction phase.
Common Tacoma-Specific Constraints
Steep Slopes & Hillside Lots
Many Tacoma neighborhoods—particularly North End, West End, and Ruston-adjacent areas—contain steep slopes that require geotechnical evaluation.
Wetlands & Stream Buffers
Certain areas near gulches and ravines include regulated buffers that may reduce buildable area.
Stormwater Requirements
Tacoma’s stormwater manual frequently triggers infiltration-based solutions or engineered dispersion due to soil variability.
Urban Infill Conditions
Small or irregular lots may require precise grading, drainage, and utility routing.
Right-of-Way Requirements
Public Works may require improvements such as sidewalk or roadway updates depending on project scope and location.
Identifying these items early helps avoid redesigns and unexpected costs.
Start Your Tacoma Custom Home Feasibility Review
Accurate feasibility is the first step toward a successful custom home in Tacoma. McInnis Engineering provides feasibility studies, civil engineering, and permit management to help homeowners and builders move through Tacoma’s review process efficiently.
Contact us to begin a feasibility assessment or discuss your Tacoma site.