Common Permit Questions

Common Permit Questions:

For all of the items listed below, projects that are exempt from permits will still need to meet development code requirements.  Please reach out directly to our planning department for additional information on whether your project will conform to city standards.  

Below is a list of the building permit requirements for common structures.  An exemption from building permit will not exempt a particular project from any required mechanical, plumbing, or electrical permits required by the code.

Patio Covers

Patio covers meeting all of the following items would be exempt from building permits:

1) Not over 200 Square Feet

2) The floor or deck of patio is not more than 30" above grade

3) The covered portion of the porch or patio does not come closer than 3 feet to any property line

4) The patio cover is supported by an exterior wall of the primary structure

A permit is required for a patio cover project that does not meet all of the items listed above.  If the patio cover is not attached, and is free standing of the primary structure, please see the requirements below for a detached nonhabitable accessory structure.

Decks

A permit is not required on a  new deck project if:

1) The floor or deck is not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade measured at any point within 3 feet horizontally of the floor or deck

If the floor or deck is more than 30 inches above grade at any point, a permit is required for the deck construction whether it is the re-construction of an existing deck, or if it is a brand new deck.  

Swimming Pools

Installation of a swimming pool requires a building permit.  Swimming pools are subject to barrier requirements as detailed in 329.1 in the Oregon Residential Specialty Code and in the Internation Swimming pool and Spa code.  Swimming pools may also require structural engineering for site built designs and/ or manufacturer installation instructions for pre-fabricated swimming pools.  

Detached nonhabitable Accessory Structures

Non habitable accessory structures that are not attached to the primary structure on the lot are exempt from permits when all of the following are met:

1) Not over 200 Square Feet

2) The structure is not used as habitable space (examples of habitable space include: bedrooms, offices, living rooms, or any other space used for living, sleeping, eating or cooking)

3) The structure does not come closer than 3 feet to any property line

4) The structure is not supported by any other structure on the lot