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Before beginning any voluntary demolition or repair work in the pedestrian sidewalk corridor, you or your contractor must have a Minor Improvement Permit (MIP) from the Bureau of Transportation.
PP&D Fees will be a minimum of $101 for a sidewalk permit + $445.90 (inspection fee) = a MINIMUM permit fee of $546.90
PP&D Fees will be a maximum of $333 for a sidewalk permit + $445.90 (inspection fee) = a maximum permit fee of $778.90
Please keep in mind that additional inspection fees can be assessed by the inspections team if applicable (Additional Inspection fee: $150.60)
At this time, the permit provided will only show the permit fees paid - not the inspection fees. For an accurate record of fees paid, visit DevHub.
You will receive your permit within 1-2 business days after payment approval has been verified.
UPDATE (7.10.2026)
- Provide detailed submittal information. If the project is on a corner lot, identify which street the work will occur. If repairing a driveway apron, provide length and width of the apron.
- Do not submit multiple requests for the same scope of work. This will delay the processing.
- Grinding is allowed with district inspector approval. For prior approval, the permittee will need to contact the inspection line and request a consultation at (503) 823-7002 Option #1.
- Processing of permits can take up to 7 business days.
- This email box is not for questions to determine requirements. Questions can be asked in a virtual 15 minute appointment. Click on street and right of way questions. Free 15-minute appointments for permit, code, and zoning questions
Apply online
Apply for a permit to make voluntary repairs to sidewalks, curbs, and driveways that are in the City of Portland’s public right-of-way. Bureau staff will contact you if more information or changes are needed. Permit fees are $2.82 per square foot of sidewalk and driveway, with a $101 minimum and $333 maximum per permit. Inspections fees are $445.90 with additional inspection fee of $150.60 if determined by the inspector.
Online Minor Improvement Permit Application
Did you receive a Sidewalk Repair Notice?
Mandatory sidewalk repairs require a different permit type. See the Sidewalk Repair page for more information.
Do you want to build or improve a driveway on private property?
Creating a new or enlarged parking area or driveway, or paving a gravel parking area or driveway, requires a zoning permit. Learn more about zoning permits.
A minor improvement permit is also required if any of the work will take place in the right-of-way.
Wait for review and approval
Once applications have been reviewed by PBOT, an email will be sent with a final bill and instructions on how to pay online. Permits will usually be emailed to the applicant within 1-2 business days upon receipt of payment.
Make repairs
Standard drawings provide a reference for design and construction of sidewalk, curbs, and driveway ramps within the public right-of-way. There are multiple standard drawings for driveways and the appropriate standard for your location will be selected City staff. The final design and construction details are determined by the inspector for your permit.
Sidewalks
Driveways
Curbs
Complete required inspections
An MIP requires a minimum of two inspections:
- Inspection of the concrete forms or pavement base before pouring concrete or paving
- Inspection after completing the permitted repair work
All repairs and construction must pass a final inspection before the work is considered complete.
In some cases, additional inspections are required. If tree roots must be cut or otherwise impacted to make a repair, you will also need an inspection by the City Forester before you build your concrete forms or place your base. Tree roots can only be removed as approved by Urban Forestry Tree Inspectors. For more information please visit Street Tree Root Pruning Permit - Frequently Asked Questions.
Permit refund policy
If your permit has a change in scope of work or has an error in the permit’s calculation, you may be able to request a refund. Please email refund requests to listing the MIP information and payee’s information, an application will be provided by staff PBOTsidewalkpermit@portlandoreg…
If we approve your refund on a same day payment, the City will void the MIP and your credit card account won't be charged.
If the permit has been processed through the bank, you'll need to complete and email a refund request. We will send approved refunds via check from the City of Portland, payable to the name listed on the Credit Card used for paying the MIP invoice. Refunds may take up to 60 days to process.
Learn more about the Refund Policy on Permits Issued by Street Systems Management
Questions?
Need help with your application or have other questions? Please reach out to us using the contact information listed on this page.