File building code appeals, electrical code appeals, mechanical code and plumbing code appeals. This is a fee-based service that provides a formal response. You can request an alternative way to meet the intent of a code provision. You can also confirm an interpretation of building code language.
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Ask questions first
Consult with plan reviewers or inspectors before submitting an appeal. They can help identify code requirements and possible alternative solutions. You can also read more about the appeal process.
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File building code, electrical, mechanical and plumbing code appeals
A complete appeal packet includes the appeal application, plans/supplemental information and the fee. Plans or supplemental information that cannot submitted online can be mailed. Filing your appeal online will help avoid delays. If you need to file by mail:
- Mailed appeals applications must be received by BDS before 9 a.m. Thursday to be heard at the following Wednesday’s administrative appeal meeting. However, an appeal may be deferred for hearing at a later date due to the number of appeals scheduled for hearing, the complexity of the appeal being submitted, or other unforeseen factors.
- Mailed plans, supplemental information and/or fees for online appeals must be received by 9 a.m. Thursday to be heard at the following Wednesday's appeal meeting. They must be clearly marked "Appeals" and include the Appeal ID number assigned to your online application submittal so your information is attached to the correct application.
- Appeal Packets will be screened for completeness. Submittal of inaccurate or incomplete forms may cause a delay in hearing the appeal. Refer to “How to Write an Appeal and Fill Out an Application for an Appeal” for more information.
For questions regarding the appeal packet submittal, please call the Building Code of Appeals phone number.
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Fee payment
After your appeal is submitted, we will email you a payment slip with a link to the online payment system (credit cards, and checks accepted).
Checks should be made payable to “Treasurer, City of Portland” and have the project address written in the memo field. Note, paying by check may cause a delay in processing your application. Pay online if at all possible.
Appeals fees
The following fees must be submitted with your application:
- Commercial appeals - $501
- Residential appeals - $250
- Additional item fee - $125
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Ask questions first
Consult with plan reviewers or inspectors before submitting an appeal. They can help identify code requirements and possible alternative solutions. You can also read more about the appeal process.
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Make an appointment
Filing your appeal online will help avoid delays. If you need to file an appeal in person, contact the Appeal Board Secretary, Donna Ruark, to make an appointment to drop off your appeal.
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File building code, electrical, mechanical and plumbing code appeals
A complete appeal packet includes the appeal application, plans/supplemental information and the fee. Plans or supplemental information that cannot submitted online or by mail can be dropped off in person.
Appeal Packets will be screened for completeness. Submittal of inaccurate or incomplete forms may cause a delay in hearing the appeal. Refer to “How to Write an Appeal and Fill Out an Application for an Appeal” for more information.
The appeal packet must be submitted online by 9 a.m. Thursday, in order to be included at the following Wednesday's appeal meeting.
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Fee payment
After you submit an appeal, we will email you or mail you a payment slip with a link to the online payment system. This system can accept both checks and credit cards. This is the preferred method of payment and will help avoid delays.
Appeals fees
The following fees must be submitted with your application:
- Commercial appeals - $501
- Residential appeals - $250
- Additional item fee - $125