Permits
Construction mistakes can be costly and dangerous. Building and land use permits help prevent mistakes and protect families, homes and investments. Certified inspectors ensure work is performed safely and to code. Building codes ensure structures are safe from structural failure, fire hazards from electrical/heating systems, electrical shock and health risks.
Permits create permanent records of work and inspections. Oregon law requires homeowners to disclose all remodel work, with or without permits, during home sales.
- Land use permits, including temporary use permits: Current Planning.
- Building permits: Building Services.
- Public improvement, Assurances and Facility permits: Public Assurances
- Right-of-Way and utility permits: Operations and Maintenance
Additional Resources
Urban Development Permitting - Contacts & Tips
Rural Development Permitting - Contacts & Tips
Fee changes effective Jan. 1
In June 2020, the Washington County Board of Commissioners opted to increase Building and Current Planning fees. To help mitigate the financial impact on our customers, half of the increase was effective July 1, 2020; the second half is effective Jan. 1, 2021.
Unlike many area jurisdictions, both LUT Building Services and Current Planning operate on a cost-recovery basis – meaning that these work groups’ activities are supported entirely by fees for service. These increases are cost-recovery measures necessary to maintain operations. For a complete list of LUT fee increases, visit the Washington County Fiscal Year 2020-21 Fee Schedule (pages 13-31).
- Building Services fees: Most fees will increase 2.5%
- Current Planning fees: While most fees are increasing a minimum of 2.5%, other targeted increases are also being implemented to achieve cost recovery.