Kirkland early review
How to prepare for a Kirkland pre-submittal conference
A pre-submittal conference is most valuable when the city can review a stable concept and answer decisions that materially affect feasibility. It does not vest the project or replace permit review.
Reviewed against official Kirkland sources · August 2026Know when it is required
Most land-use permits and all cottage developments require a conference. Single-family and duplex building applications do not generally require one, but Kirkland says an SFR meeting may be useful. Complex commercial and multifamily projects are strongly encouraged to use the process.
Bring reviewable information
- Vicinity and conceptual site plans.
- Approximate significant trees and natural features.
- Existing and proposed contours when available.
- Parking, circulation, access, and utilities.
- Building floor plans and all elevations.
- A numbered list of questions and decisions.
Use the meeting correctly
City staff commonly include Building, Fire, Planning, and Public Works. Take notes, confirm the primary city contact, and translate feedback into project criteria. Substantial redesign after application can require more review and fees.
Action plan
What to do next
- 1
Identify the feasibility decisions that need city input.
- 2
Submit a coherent concept rather than sketches from different versions.
- 3
Ask numbered questions with the consequence of each answer.
- 4
Record city attendees, answers, caveats, and follow-ups.
- 5
Update the design brief and consultant scopes after the meeting.
Official resources