Hillsboro, Oregon Plumbing Local Permit Ordinances and Codes
Hillsboro, Oregon Plumbing Permit Ordinances
In Hillsboro, Oregon, the City Building Department, specifically the Development Services & Permitting Center, is the Authority Having Jurisdiction for plumbing permits. Permits are required for various plumbing tasks to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal requirements, protecting public health, safety, and property investment.
Permit Requirements
- Permits are generally required for installing new plumbing fixtures, replacing water heaters, installing or replacing shower pans, and any piping within walls, ceilings, or beneath floors.
- Replacing a plumbing fixture in the same location typically does not require a permit.
- Specific projects requiring a permit include adding new plumbing fixtures, water heater replacement, and rerouting plumbing lines.
- Sewer connections also require permits.
Local Zoning and Fee Nuances
- Hillsboro follows the 2021 building code. The state also adopts specific codes, including the 2023 Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code.
- Permit fees can vary based on the scope of work. For example, adding a new fixture may cost an estimated $40-$160, water heater replacement $45-$135, and rerouting plumbing lines $90-$360.
- The minimum permit fee in Hillsboro is $64.90, plus a 12% state surcharge. If plan review is required, an additional 25% of the overall permit fee applies.
- For one and two-family dwellings, plumbing permit fees are based on square footage for new construction or the number of fixtures for remodeling/alterations. A base fee for new construction under 1800 sq ft is $210, with additional charges per square foot over 1800. Remodels/alterations are $67 per 10 fixtures or less.
- Commercial, industrial, and other dwellings have a base fee of $60, which includes up to 3 fixtures and the first 100' of exterior piping. Additional fixtures over three are $20 each, and site utilities exceeding 100' are $20 per additional 100'.
- Work started without a permit is subject to double inspection fees.
Application Process
- Permit applications can be submitted in person or virtually via email to [email protected].
- After submitting the application, staff will provide a link for payment. Permits are typically issued shortly after payment, with over-the-counter permits often reviewed within 24 hours.
- If a review is required, staff will send a link to begin that process.
Resources to Learn More
Because Hillsboro is located within Washington County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Oregon, Washington County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Washington County, Oregon Plumbing Permit Requirements
Washington County Building Services is responsible for issuing plumbing permits for properties located in unincorporated areas of the county. These permits ensure that all plumbing work meets the minimum standards for safe construction as required by the State of Oregon Building Code.
When a Permit is Required
A plumbing permit is generally required for the following:
- Replacement of water heaters and underground piping.
- Alterations to piping within walls, ceilings, or under floors.
- All new plumbing installations.
- Emergency repairs or alterations to concealed piping exceeding five feet due to freezing or leaks.
- Remodels or additions to one- or two-family dwellings that involve relocating existing plumbing, including building sewers, water service, and exterior drains.
- Modifications to any part of a building's plumbing system for gray water installations.
When a Permit is Not Required
Permits are typically not required for "ordinary minor repairs" on your own property. This includes the repair, replacement, or maintenance of existing, accessible fixtures, parts, appliances, and their related water and drain attachments, as long as the entire existing plumbing system is not altered. Examples of work that may not require a permit include replacing a sink, toilet, faucet (if not concealed in a wall), countertops, shower heads, or hose bibb.
How to Apply for a Permit
Permit applications can be submitted via email to [email protected] or in person if you are the homeowner applicant. Washington County also offers an online portal, Building and Development Application Services (BDAS), for submitting applications for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits, among others. Plans and fees must be submitted within 30 days of application submission.
Owner-Performed Work
The owner of a one- or two-family dwelling may perform their own plumbing work or hire a licensed plumbing contractor. Any other individual performing plumbing work must be a licensed plumber working for a licensed plumbing contractor.
Resources to Learn More
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Oregon:
Oregon Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Oregon Plumbing Codes and Legislation
The state of Oregon regulates plumbing installations, repairs, and alterations through the Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code (OPSC). The current edition is the 2023 OPSC, which became effective on October 1, 2023. This code is based on the 2021 edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), and incorporates specific amendments tailored to Oregon's local needs, climate, and building standards.
Regulatory Agencies and Oversight
The primary state agency responsible for the adoption, administration, and enforcement of plumbing codes in Oregon is the Building Codes Division (BCD), which operates under the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS). The BCD is authorized by Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) Chapter 447 and Chapter 693 to establish statewide plumbing standards and manage the licensing program for plumbing professionals. The State Plumbing Board assists the BCD by providing expertise, overseeing licensing, and ensuring that plumbing work meets minimum safety standards through the code adoption and review process.
Resources to Learn More