Community Development

A City uniquely positioned to serve the Pacific Northwest, Yakima takes pride in its on-going commitment to assist start-up businesses, grow local companies, and attract new development to locate in our city.

We understand your business needs, and we are here to help. All development-related services for the City including Planning, Code Administration, and Engineering are co-located within the Community Development Department. We work closely with the Yakima Chamber of Commerce and Yakima County Development Association (YCDA) to answer your questions and provide assistance as you make your important business decisions.


We are warning community members to be wary of fraudulent emails targeting people involved in planning and permitting processes. The emails falsely appear to be from our Community Development Department or Planning Division staff and request wire transfers or payments for fake invoices.

Payments related to planning or permitting processes are accepted online (www.buildingyakima.com) or in person at Yakima City Hall.

News Release: Scam Alert | Points of Interest