Do you need a permit for your commercial project?

Guide
Inspector talking with customer about plans
Learn about permits you need for your business or commercial project. Includes multifamily building permit information.
On this page

The City of Portland also issues building permits for the City of Maywood Park. 

New construction that requires a building permit 

  • Construct new commercial building
  • Construct new multifamily building (three family units or more) 

Alterations to existing structures that require a building permit 

  • Cell phone antenna- Contact Land Use Review to see if Land Use Review is required.
  • Change the Use or Occupancy in an Existing Building.    
  • Construct an addition   
  • Demolish a structure
  • Disabled access upgrades         
  • Install racks/storage shelving    
  • Install siding    
  • Move or construct walls, even if non-bearing partitions 
  • Replace or add new windows or doors  
  • Seismic upgrade
  • Tenant improvements              

For asbestos abatement, contact the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) or call them (800) 452-4011.

Work in the public right of way       

Any work in the public right-of-way requires a permit. Or, this work may be allowed by code if the conditions are met under the authority of Transportation. Please contact Transportation ("PBOT") for more information. 

Change of occupancy 

A change of occupancy requires a building permit.

Child care and daycare

Permits are required. Contact Land Use to see if a Land Use Review is required.

Flagpoles

Flagpoles require a building permit

Home business permits 

  • Home Occupation - Type A. Doesn't require a permit. Allows residents to use their home as a place of work, but no customers or employees come to the house.
  • Home Occupation - Type B. Requires a Home Occupation Permit. Allows either one employee who does not live in the home or up to eight customers per day to come to the dwelling.

Meter hoods   

Transportation issues these permits. Please contact Transportation for more information. 

Noise: Make noise beyond allowed standards   

A noise permit is required if you plan to make noise above the allowed decibels and/or during non-construction hours/day. Read more about allowed construction hours.

Parking permits

Transportation issues these permits. Please contact Transportation for more information. 

Sidewalk cafes and street pole banners 

  • Sidewalk café seating. Transportation issues these permits. Please contact Transportation ("PBOT") for more information. 
  • Banners hung from street poles. Transportation issues these permits. Please contact Transportation ("PBOT") for more information. 

Signs, A-boards, and banners     

Tents and building permits 

What you need for a complete commercial permit application 

Check out the full list of all building permits.

You can also visit the commercial permitting area and the Building and Zoning Permit Application page

You might also want to read What You Need to Apply for a Permit- Minimum Submittal Requirements.

Special programs for commercial customers

Learn more about the Process Management Program and the Facility Permit Program

Not sure if you need a permit? Schedule a 15-minute appointment 

If you have questions after reviewing the information on this page, we recommend you book a free 15-minute appointment with us. 

We're here for you if you have questions about the information and materials you need to apply.