City Permits, Forms and Information

Oregon law requires you to obtain permits for a range of work on your home to ensure that the improvements meet minimum building standards to ensure safe workmanship.

 

Permits are required for all new construction as well as for specific alterations to existing homes, which include structural, plumbing, mechanical and electrical changes. The true value of the permit lies in the accompanying expert inspection of your project.

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The person performing the work, whether it is a homeowner or contractor, is responsible for obtaining all necessary permits. Once the permit is issued, you can begin work. The permit must be on site and available to the inspector and if your permit has accompanying approved plans, they must be available as well.

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Your permit expires if work is not started within 180 days from its issuance. Once you have begun work, your permit expires if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days or more. If you cannot work within a 180 day period but do not wish to abandon the project, you need to submit a written request to extend your permit for an additional 180 days.

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The links below describe which types of projects require a permit and which ones do not. Keep in mind that the descriptions only apply to one or two-family dwellings.

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If you still are not sure whether you need a permit, locate and contact the building department responsible for your area.