Do I need a permit for addition or structural alteration in Unincorporated Clackamas County?
Yes. In Oregon, addition or structural alteration generally requires a permit, and Unincorporated Clackamas County is no exception.
ORSC R105.1 requires a permit to construct, enlarge, or alter a dwelling, and R105.1.1 requires a building permit for any new habitable space, toilet room, or bathroom. Additions must meet ORSC Chapter 11; additions of 600 square feet or more must select an additional energy measure, and additions under 225 square feet are excused from the additional-measure tables (N1101.3). Alterations and additions that require a permit trigger smoke alarms throughout the dwelling (R314.2.2), and work requiring a structural permit triggers carbon monoxide alarms (R315.2.2), except for exterior-only work such as roofing, siding, windows, doors, porches, or decks.
Documents you may need
- Building permit applicationRequired
- Site plan with setbacksRequired
- Construction drawings (floor plan, foundation, framing, sections)Required
- ORSC Chapter 11 energy compliance, including any required additional measureRequired
- Separate electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permitsLikely required
Possible inspections
- Footing and foundation inspection
- Framing inspection
- Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical rough-in inspections
- Insulation inspection
- Final inspection
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit for addition or structural alteration in Unincorporated Clackamas County?
- Yes. In Oregon, addition or structural alteration generally requires a permit, and Unincorporated Clackamas County is no exception. The documents and inspections sections on this page list what the building department typically asks for.
- Who issues the permit in Unincorporated Clackamas County?
- The local building department for Unincorporated Clackamas County handles permitting. This page lists its contact details and online portal. Your mailing city is not always the permitting authority, so confirm the jurisdiction before you apply.
- How do I find out the exact requirements for my project?
- Run the free PermitRoadmap check for your specific project and answers. It returns the likely permits, documents, inspections, and next steps, each linked to its official source.
PermitRoadmap is an independent informational service and is not affiliated with any city, county, state agency, or permitting authority. Results are informational and do not replace confirming requirements with the local permitting authority.