Oregon Building Permits — Complete Guide (2026)
Find, Apply & Track Permits in Cities and Counties Across Oregon
Oregon is one of the most ADU-friendly states in the nation and has pioneered housing-forward permitting reform. Portland's Residential Infill Project and statewide ADU law have made Oregon a national model for accessory dwelling unit permitting.
How building permits work in Oregon
Building permit requirements and processing times in Oregon vary by city and county. Use the links below to apply, check status, schedule inspections and find permit information for your location.
Learn the step-by-step permit process →Not sure where to apply?
Enter your city or address to find your permit office.
Permit costs by type — Oregon
| Permit Type | Fee Range | Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical | $100–$275 | 1–5 days | Oregon licensed electrician required |
| Plumbing | $85–$240 | 1–5 days | Oregon licensed plumber required |
| HVAC / Mechanical | $100–$275 | 2–6 days | Heat pump adoption very high in OR |
| Roofing | $150–$375 | 1–4 days | Seismic connections for heavy tile roofs |
| New Construction | $700–$2,200 | 3–8 weeks | Portland — high cost, longer review |
| Room Addition | $400–$1,100 | 2–6 weeks | Seismic design required in western OR |
| ADU (detached) | $500–$1,200 | 2–6 weeks | State law prevents unreasonable denial |
| ADU (garage conversion) | $350–$900 | 1–5 weeks | Fastest path to ADU in most OR cities |
| Solar | $100–$275 | 1–5 days | Oregon Residential Energy Tax Credit |
| Deck / Patio | $150–$450 | 1–4 weeks | Seismic connections for attached decks |
Major Oregon cities — apply online
Most Oregon building permits are issued by cities. Click your city to access the permit portal, apply online, or check permit status.
Permit costs by county — top Oregon counties
County building departments handle unincorporated areas. Click a county to access its permit portal directly.
How to get a building permit in Oregon
Oregon Building Codes Division or local jurisdiction
Portland, Eugene, Salem, and most cities over 4,000 population issue their own permits. Smaller cities and rural counties may use the Oregon BCD.
Seismic design — critical in western Oregon
Oregon's Cascadia Subduction Zone creates major earthquake risk in western Oregon. All structural projects must address seismic design. Engineers familiar with OR seismic requirements are essential.
ADU permitting — Oregon is easy
Under SB 1051 and HB 2001, Oregon cities must approve compliant ADU applications. Pre-approved ADU plan programs are available in Portland and Eugene.
Submit application
Portland's permit system (ePermitting) is well-developed. Eugene, Salem, and Bend have online systems. Rural Oregon uses Oregon BCD.
Inspections
Oregon cities have active inspection programs. Oregon BCD covers rural areas with regional inspection staff.
ADU permits in Oregon — what you need to know
🏠 Oregon ADU-friendly status: Yes — among top 3 in US
Oregon is one of the most ADU-friendly states in the nation. HB 2001 (2019) and SB 1051 eliminated single-family zoning statewide. Portland allows up to 4 units on single-family lots. ADUs are allowed by right statewide — cities cannot require owner-occupancy or prohibit ADU rentals.
Find a licensed Oregon contractor
Oregon requires licensed professionals for most permitted work. Always verify a contractor's license before hiring — it protects you and is required for most permit types.
General Contractors
Find pre-screened general contractors for your Oregon home project. Compare quotes on permitted work.
Find a Contractor →Verify OR CCB License
Verify your contractor holds a valid Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license before any permitted work begins.
Verify OR CCB License →Electricians & Plumbers
Specialty-licensed electricians and plumbers are required for all permitted electrical and plumbing work in Oregon.
Learn More →Ready to get started? Browse verified, licensed contractors serving Oregon homeowners and get free quotes on your project.
🔍 Find a Contractor Near YouFrequently asked questions — Oregon permits
Disclaimer: HousePermits.com is an independent resource and is not affiliated with any government agency.