Permit a project through the FIR Program

The FIR Program permit process and the regular permit processes are alike in many ways, including the required documentation, plan review, and inspections.

The differences include the types of building projects allowed under the program, routes of communication, document submission, the requesting of inspections, and billing procedures.

Projects that can be permitted through the FIR Program

Certain types of alterations and additions to one and two-family dwellings and accessory structures can be permitted through the FIR program, including:

• The alteration of existing habitable space
• The conversion of existing non-habitable space into habitable space
• The creation of new habitable or non-habitable space attached to an existing structure
• The erection of a new detached accessory structure
• The demolition of a detached accessory structure.
• Work defined as a Major Residential Alteration or Addition in Portland City Code Section 24.55.150.

Note: Creation of new square footage and exterior alterations must comply with applicable zoning and land use regulations and the Portland City Code.

Limitations: projects that do not qualify

Because of unique construction and regulatory requirements, the following projects cannot be permitted through the FIR Program:

• Conversion of single-family residences to duplexes
• Creation of accessory dwelling units
• Demolition of a one or two-family dwelling. See Portland City Code subsection 24.55.150 for the definition of “Demolition”.
• Fire damage repair
• Floating structures
• Manufactured dwellings
• Shared garages
• Solar installation (standalone projects)

Projects that do not qualify, must be permitted through the standard residential permit process.

Apply for a permit through the FIR Program

Application Process

1. Complete and submit a FIR permit application. 

1. Send the completed FIR permit application by email to bdsfirpermits@portlandoregon.gov or fax (503) 823-7425.
    
2. Pre-construction meeting. Schedule an onsite meeting with your FIR Inspector to discuss the following:
   • Scope of work
   • Required plans and documents (see standards below)
   • Zoning requirements
   • Code requirements
   • Site conditions
      
3. Email your prepared permit documents to your FIR Inspector or Technical Staff. Do not use DevHub for any project permitted through the FIR Program.
   
   If files are too large to email, please request a file-sharing link from your FIR Inspector or Technical Staff.
   
   All trade applications must be submitted as part of the main permit submittal package.
   
   Paper plan option. You may also submit paper plans. Provide 3 sets of plans to your FIR inspector in person.

Standards for permit plans and documents

• A completed FIR permit application is always required for permit submittals. Include a succinct but comprehensive scope of work. 
   
• Trade applications (mechanical, plumbing, and electrical sub-contractors) if applicable must be completed in full including all required license numbers. You will not receive a final permit without providing completed subcontractor applications.
   
• If submitting electronic files through email, attach each document as a separate PDF
   
• The minimum plan size is 11" x 17"
   
• Draw all plans to scale
   
• Typically, plans include a site plan, floor plan, elevations, cross-sections, and detailed drawings
   
• Dimensions and notes must match a 12-point font minimum

For instructions on preparing plans for a permit, including a Site Plan Checklist and Sample Site Plan, visit Plans You Need for a Building Permit.

We will reject incorrect, incomplete, or inadequate permit submittals. This may delay your project.

Application documents

Check with your FIR inspector for the requirements for your specific project. Use this table to determine what you need to provide with your application.

If the conditions listed in the left column are true about your project, then provide the application requirement listed in the right corresponding column.