Help/Assistance

Other sources of help, information, and references:

Helpdesk phone:

See notes/comments for contacts

Subject matter expert contact information:

360-902-6131

elevatorsect@lni.wa.gov

Elevator Installation Variance Permit

Description/Purpose

Property owners or elevator companies can apply for a variance for items that meet the intent of the code provided the alternative method of safety provided meets or exceeds that which would be obtained by compliance with the code.

Triggers and activities which would require this permit

Property owners or elevator companies may apply for a variance for items that are allowable deviation(s) from specific requirements of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 296-96 and other codes adopted by the elevator department where the proposed alternative method(s) maintain equivalent safety.

Explanation/Description of costs/fees, including statutory, regulatory, or other legal authority for fees

Fees are available on the L&I web site.

Application Information

The application is online and can be accessed at https://www.lni.wa.gov/forms-publications/F621-048-000.pdf.

Not usually, although it is sometimes helpful to include pictures or drawings with the variance application.

Applications must include an alternative method for achieving the same level of safety.

Applications may be submitted by mail or in-person at a L&I office.

The variance is valid for the life of the equipment provided no other changes impacting the item for which the variance was approved are made.

Permit Timeliness Results

Permit Timeliness data collection is in response to a State Auditor’s Performance Audit and RCW 43.42A. Each regulatory agency developed a plan to improve permit clarity, predictability, and timeliness. Each agency considers the customers experience to ensure permit assistance is simple to use, easy to access, and designed in a customer-friendly manner. Agencies report progress to the Governor’s Office for Regulatory Innovation and Assistance (ORIA). ORIA prepares and distributes reports, with participation from the State Auditor’s Office and Results Washington. See latest report here: https://www.oria.wa.gov/ORIA-2020-PermitTimelinessProgressReport.pdf.

Estimated Time Required By the Agency to Process a Permit Application (Definition)
Average days from Receipt to Complete: 4
Maximum days from Receipt to Complete: 77

Estimated Time Required By the Agency to Issue a Permit Decision (Definition)
Average days from Complete Application to Decision: 23
Maximum days from Complete Application to Decision: 115


(Summary results based on 35 submittals in 2024)

Legal authority
Notes / Comments

Help Desk Phone:

  • General Information: 360-902-6130
  • Technical Specialist: 360-918-4246 or 509-770-0749
  • Administrative Assistance 360-902-6130
  • Account Information: 360-902-6130
Contacts
Department of Labor and Industries
7273 Linderson Way SW
PO Box 44000, Olympia WA 98504-4000
Tumwater WA 98501-5414
Website: https://www.lni.wa.gov/
Telephone: (360) 902-5800
* Credential details last updated 11/29/2022
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