Oregon, Union County Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Union County Building & Safety Division

Union County's Building Official is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for building permits and code enforcement within the county. The Building Department is located at 1001 Fourth Street, Suite C, La Grande, OR 97850, and can be reached at 541-963-1014. They are responsible for ensuring compliance with local building codes and regulations, including plan review, inspections, and permitting.

Unincorporated Areas

The Union County Building Ordinance applies to all buildings and structures within the county's jurisdiction, including unincorporated areas, unless specifically exempted.

Permit Triggers for Demolition Work

A permit is required for the demolition of buildings and structures in Union County. The building code authorizes the Building Official to require the submission of plans and a complete demolition schedule for such work.

Permit Requirements for Non-Living Space Conversions

Converting non-living spaces such as garages, attics, or unfinished basements into habitable living areas requires a building permit. Any associated plumbing, electrical, or mechanical work will also necessitate separate permits. The new living space must comply with current residential code and energy code requirements. Additionally, properties undergoing garage conversions may need to provide alternative off-street parking to compensate for the loss of garage parking spaces. Detailed building plans illustrating the proposed work, including floor plans, window and door openings, and locations of safety features like smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, are required for permit applications.

Resources to Learn More

Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Oregon, including Union County.

Oregon Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Oregon Building Codes for Remodelers and Residential Renovations

In Oregon, the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS), through its Building Codes Division, is responsible for adopting, administering, and enforcing a uniform, statewide building code. This code governs construction and ensures minimum safety standards across the state. Many cities and counties administer and enforce these codes locally.

The state building code is comprised of various specialty codes. For existing buildings and renovations, the primary code is the 2021 Oregon Existing Building Code, which is based on the 2018 International Existing Building Code (IEBC) with Oregon-specific amendments. Other relevant codes include the Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC) and the Oregon Structural Specialty Code (OSSC).

Generally, permits and plan review are required for remodels that involve structural changes, the creation of habitable space, alterations to openings, or modifications to electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems. Cosmetic work, such as painting, replacing cabinets, or installing new flooring, is typically exempt from permits, provided it does not affect the structure or systems. However, even exempt work must comply with local zoning and code requirements.

Converting attics or basements into habitable living spaces is considered a structural alteration and will require permits and inspections.

Demolition guidelines vary by locality, but generally involve specific notification periods for property owners and may require deconstruction for older structures. For instance, some local ordinances may require a 15-day notice before demolition begins and specify procedures for debris removal and site restoration.

Recent legislative changes in 2024 and 2025 aim to streamline permitting processes for renovations. For example, municipalities over 15,000 in population may be prohibited from requiring frontage improvements as a condition for altering existing buildings, provided certain criteria are met regarding square footage, alteration cost, and occupancy classification.

Resources to Learn More

Select a City in Union County

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

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