FAQs

I have a code question. How can I get it answered?

Check with your contractor regarding any building code questions first. If you aren't using a contractor, you can find the Oregon Building Code here. If you have exhausted those avenues and still have questions, you may call our office at 541-447-3211, let us know what type of code question you have, and we can connect you with one of our inspectors, or their voicemail. Please understand, our inspectors are extremely busy and answer code questions as a courtesy only so they will get back to you as soon as they are able.

Where can I find all the permits pulled on a property? 

On the Oregon ePermitting website under the Search button. Feel free to use the guide under supporting documents to help navigate the States system. 

Can I pull or apply for my own permits online?

You may pull most permits on Oregon ePermitting website. However, you will still need to come into the office to pick up your job locator card and inspection card/s after issuance.

How do I schedule inspections on existing permits?

Please see our "How to Schedule Inspections" form below. If none of those avenues work for you, call the office to schedule your inspection/s. You must know the inspection type you're wanting scheduled. 

Can I schedule for same day inspections?

Only if you do so before 7:00 AM the morning of the inspection via the app. You can schedule on the app twenty-four hours a day. If you call the office to schedule your inspection/s, we can not do same day.  If you call after business hours, we do not get the voicemail until the following day, which will delay your inspection for another day. He recommend trying the app or through ePermitting before calling our office. 

How much will my permit cost?

Permits fees are based upon the type of permit you are applying for.  The fees are either based of square footage, valuation, or itemized fixture. Refer to our fee schedule or reach out to the office for an estimate. 

Can I do my own work (be my own contractor)?

In most cases, yes, you must fill out the state of Oregon Property Owner Statement Regarding Construction Responsibilities form. Anything to do with propane a licensed plumber or LPG installer will need to complete this scope. Commercial projects need to be completed by a license contractor. 

What if my contractor changes?

You must let us know as soon as possible in writing. Most permits are transferable. In some cases, you may have to apply for a new permit in some cases.

Do I need to submit plans for a solar permit?

Only if it is over 25 KVA (electrical plans needed), or if you answer NO to any of the questions on the required Solar Photovoltaic System Checklist (structural plans needed),  or if the structure the system is going on is a manufactured/mobile home. 

What are the inspection cards and where do I get them?

The inspection cards are a log of inspections printed on colored card stock paper or label. These allow our inspectors to document on job site the approved inspections. The building official requires these cards to be displayed on the job site prior to scheduling inspections. Declining to have these on site may result in "not ready" or "denied" inspection results and additional fees may get applied. The property owner, contractor, or any other representative may pick up the cards from our office at or after building permit issuance. Reach out to the office if picking them up isn't an option. Once the job is complete, the inspection cards are recommended to be retained for your personal records.