Division Manager: Andy Back
Development in unincorporated Washington County must comply with plans, policies and codes from the County, state and Metro. Staff work with developers, consultants and citizens to ensure it’s done safely and correctly.
Many projects require development review approval before building permits are issued. Staff reviews all proposals to ensure they adhere to the Community Development Code (CDC). The CDC regulates land use and development activities in unincorporated areas of the County.
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FAQs - Recent Enforcement Order/Injunction on proposed
development affecting Wildlife Habitat areas
Fee changes effective July 1
Washington County Land Use & Transportation (LUT) is implementing changes to building permit and development fees effective July 1, 2020. The changes involve phased fee increases and assessment of “convenience fees” charged by major credit card companies for online payments.
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 cost-recovery fee changes are necessary to maintain operations. The Board of County Commissioners opted to phase in the fee increases to help mitigate the financial impact on our customers. 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 Building Services fees will increase 2.5% effective July 1; and an additional 2.5% effective Jan. 1, 2021.
Current Planning fees
Current Planning fee increases vary. While most are increasing a minimum of 2.5% on July 1 and an additional 2.5% effective Jan. 1, other targeted increases are also being implemented to achieve cost recovery. These increases are also being phased in—half effective July 1 and half on Jan. 1.
Changes to online payments
Effective July 1, 2020, online payments will include assessment of “convenience fees” charged by major credit card companies, as follows:
- Online credit card payments (VISA, MasterCard, Discover): Average 2.45% of costs (minimum $1.50)
- Electronic bank checks: Flat service fee of 95¢ (Customer’s bank must allow electronic checks; routing and account numbers must be correct, or a return check charge may be applied by the bank.)
- Paper checks submitted via U.S. Mail: No fee
Questions & Development Assistance? Email the Current Planning section.
Washington County Department of Land Use & Transportation continues to provide most services remotely - online, by phone or via U.S. Mail.
