News
Updates to residential energy efficiency submittal requirements
In response to new energy efficiency requirements within the 2021 Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC), the Bureau of Development Services requests additional information as part of each residential permit application proposing new HVAC duct systems, air handling equipment or appliances.
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Updates to residential roof ventilation submittal requirements
As part of a continued effort to provide timely building permit review, the Bureau of Development Services requests certain information be included as part of each residential permit application proposing new enclosed roof area(s).
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Follow these guidelines to submit a permit application under current zoning code before Feb. 28, 2022
Changes to the City of Portland's zoning code will go into effect on March 1, 2022. Learn more about how to submit a permit application if you wish to have the current zoning code apply to your project.
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City Council to discuss ongoing permitting improvement efforts at Jan. 25 work session
The City Council will receive updates from development review bureaus on efforts to improve permitting services and discuss proposed updates to city policies.
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Comments requested on proposed administrative rule for Private Rights-of-ways
The Bureau of Development Services seeks public comment on a proposed administrative rule governing private rights-of-ways (Streets, Alleys, Shared Courts, Common Greens and Pedestrian Connections).
Updated Public notice
Give your views on improving erosion control during construction activity
The City of Portland is updating its erosion control requirements to better manage soils and sediments on construction sites and reduce development impacts on the environment. Your ideas and suggestions on an early draft are welcome.
Updated News article
Now available! Development permits and land use reviews research tool
Research building permits and new development projects online. Get information about commercial permits, facility permits, land use reviews and residential permits now. Metro reports are now available in Portland Maps. Search, filter and sort data and quickly create customized permits reports.
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New format of inspection reports provides helpful information for customers
New inspection reports from the Bureau of Development Services provide clearer and more streamlined information for customers to review.
Updated News article
New State Building Codes
The State of Oregon’s Building Codes Division (BCD) released new editions of the Oregon Residential Specialty Code, Oregon Electrical Specialty Code and the Oregon Plumbing Code. Any permits issued in 2018 must meet the new code requirements, which took effect on January 1, 2018.
Updated Newsletter
A letter from Rebecca Esau, Director of the Bureau of Development Services, regarding customer feedback on the City’s building permit services
Recently a survey was sent to 1088 customers who applied for building permits from January through June 2021, asking about their experiences and seeking ideas for improvement; 282 customers responded. Here is BDS Director Esau’s letter to survey recipients.
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No administrative appeals considered during week after Thanksgiving, Christmas 2021
There will not be a Weekly Administrative Appeals meeting during the weeks of November 29 and December 27, 2021.
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Interim Rule Update for Private Right-of-Ways
Learn more about interim changes to the Administrative Rule for Private Rights-of-Ways (Streets, Alleys, Shared Courts, Common Greens and Pedestrian Connections).
Public notice
New 2021 Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC) Takes Effect Oct. 1
The Oregon Building Codes Division adopted the new 2021 Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC), which took effect April 1. The six-month phase-in period wherein permit applicants have the option to submit for permits using either the current (2017) ORSC or the new (2021) ORSC is coming to an end.
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Stay updated on enhancements to ProjectDox
Building permit customers can stay informed on updates and new developments in the City's electronic plan review software.
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Bureau of Environmental Services (BES) Update
Sewer Connections: Permits Required for Sewer Connection and Repair
Updated Newsletter
City bureaus work to improve timeliness and efficiency in building permit process
Earlier this year, Commissioner Dan Ryan appointed a Permitting Improvement Task Force which met three times over two months and was charged with identifying solutions to improving the timeliness and efficiency of the building permit process.
Updated News article
Remote Video Re-inspections protect health, keep residential projects moving during COVID-19
This service of the Bureau of Development Services provides video re-inspections for corrections on permitted work, saving time and money for customers and the City.
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Follow these guidelines to submit a permit application under current zoning code before July 31, 2021
Changes to the City of Portland's zoning code will go into effect on Aug. 1, 2021. Learn more about how to submit a permit application if you wish to have the current zoning code apply to your project.
Updated News article
Follow these guidelines to submit a permit application under the current fees before June 30, 2021
Beginning July 1, 2021, fees for building permit applications will increase. Follow these guidelines to submit a permit application under the current fees.
Updated News article
Talking with Portland Community College (PCC) Building Inspection Technology Students for Building Safety Month
"Training the Next Generation" was a key theme for the International Code Council (ICC) Building Safety Month in 2021. Joe Disciascio, Inspections Supervisor, met with students from the PCC building inspection technology program to talk about what it's like to be an inspector and work for the City.
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