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

Washington County Building & Safety Division

Washington County Building Services is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair, and maintenance of buildings and structures within its jurisdiction, including enforcing the State of Oregon Building Code. They provide permitting, plan review, and inspections for both commercial and residential properties in unincorporated Washington County.

Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

Washington County Building Services specifically handles permitting, plan review, and inspections for properties located in unincorporated Washington County. Their regulations apply to construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair, and maintenance of buildings and structures, with exceptions for those located in public ways.

Specific Permit Triggers for Demolition Work During a Remodel

A demolition permit is generally required prior to demolishing any structure. If the intent of the demolition is to replace the structure with new construction, the demolition permit must be obtained and completed before a structural building permit can be issued. For residential structures, including detached garages and accessory structures over 200 square feet, a demolition permit is required. In some cases, such as demolishing a one- or two-family dwelling, there may be a mandatory notification period before demolition can commence.

Permit Requirements for Altering or Converting Non-Living Spaces

Converting non-living spaces such as garages, attics, or unfinished basements into habitable living areas typically requires a building permit. Depending on the scope of the work, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits may also be necessary. The converted space must meet current building code requirements for living areas, which can include specific standards for ceiling height, emergency egress (windows and stairs), insulation, and ventilation. For example, living spaces generally need a minimum of 70 square feet, with specific ceiling height requirements (often a minimum of 6'8"). Emergency egress windows typically need a minimum clear opening of 5.7 square feet, with specific height and width dimensions, and a sill height no more than 44 inches from the floor. If the existing space does not meet these requirements, upgrades will be necessary, which can sometimes make conversions expensive or impractical. Some jurisdictions may offer alternative standards for conversion projects.

Resources to Learn More

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