City of Tumwater, WA
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City of Tumwater news releases
The city publishes news releases with important events and information. News releases are sent to local media outlets, the e-Notification subscriber list, and posted on the city website.
Media outlets may call 360-754-4123 to request to be added to the news release distribution list or sign up for city hall general alerts to receive news releases through the city e-Notification system.
Community Development front counter hours changing
Beginning Monday, July 20, 2026, the City of Tumwater Community Development Department will adjust its public front counter hours to help balance customer service needs while maintaining timely permit processing during a major permit system upgrade.
New front counter hours (Effective July 20, 2026)
Monday–Thursday
• 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Front counter open
• 1 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.: Closed for lunch
• 1:30 p.m. – 4 p.m.: Counter closed; staff available by appointment only
Friday
• Front counter closed
The department will continue to hold Thursday Development Review Committee meetings for feasibility and pre-application projects.
Staff will also continue to be available by phone and email:
• Phone: (360) 754-4180
• Email: cdd@ci.tumwater.wa.us
New online permit system
Over the next year, the department will be working on a transition to a new online permit system that will make it easier for customers to submit applications, track permit status, and access services online. Developing and implementing this new system requires significant staff involvement while we continue to provide day-to-day customer service.
To maintain service levels, the department has already taken several steps, including:
• Reassigning staff from other divisions to support the front counter and permit review.
• Implementing an automated phone system to connect customers with the appropriate staff more efficiently.
• Introducing a new online appointment scheduling system for meetings and specialized questions.
• Establishing dedicated times for staff to serve customers at the counter while preserving uninterrupted time to process permits and complete other required work.
While these changes have helped, additional adjustments are necessary to ensure we can continue providing quality service both at the public counter and in permit review.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we make these improvements. These changes will help us continue providing responsive customer service today while building a more efficient permit system for the future.