Shed Permits in Oregon: Everything You Need To Know

The worst part of getting a new shed is scouring through legal documents to determine the requirements for obtaining a shed permit in Oregon. From how you must build the shed to getting the permit itself, the process can be complicated and confusing. Finding the information specific to your situation or location in Oregon can be difficult.

We’ve written this article to simplify the process of finding the regulations for and obtaining a shed permit in Oregon. Here’s what you can find in this article:

• Answers to common questions about shed permits
• Shed permit regulations for all counties and some cities in Oregon
• Other information you may want to know about shed permits in Oregon

What Is A Shed Permit?

A shed permit is a document granting permission to construct, install, or modify a shed on your property. Essentially, it serves as a stamp of approval from your local government or municipality stating that the shed you plan to build meets their building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards. Think of it like a building permit but specifically tailored to shed requirements. 

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Oregon?

Oregon requires a shed permit if the structure you plan to build is non-habitable, detached, one-story, and greater than 200 square feet. However, if you plan to add any electricity, plumbing, or HVAC systems to the shed, a permit will be required regardless of the shed’s size. 

Every municipality is different, so you may need a permit even if your structure is under 200 square feet. It’s always best to contact your local government to determine their requirements.

What Are The Rules For Sheds in Oregon?

You must meet some requirements when building a shed in Oregon to receive your permit. Here are some of them:

Size and Height

As noted above, in the state of Oregon, a shed permit is not required if the structure you plan to build is nonhabitable, detached, one-story, and less than 200 square feet. Additionally, if the structure is less than 15 feet in height, a permit for its construction is also not required. When it comes to specific size and height requirements, be sure to check with your local government to see how their regulations may differ. 

Location and Placement

Many areas often have rules regarding where you can place your shed, such as how far from the property line or other structures it must be. If you are building your shed near electrical lines, sewage tanks, or other utilities, you may also need to build your shed a certain distance away from them. 

It’s best to check with your local municipality, HOA, or other authorities to determine how far from the property line your shed must be, setback requirements, and other rules regarding the location and placement of your shed. 

Intended Use

Tiny home living is becoming increasingly popular, and with it is many people converting their shed into a habitable space. The state of Oregon has many areas that allow tiny homes, so if you plan to use your shed as a place of residence, you’ll need to comply with your area’s tiny home regulations rather than shed permit requirements. 

Electrical and Plumbing

You may be required to obtain a separate permit if you’re planning to add plumbing or electrical wiring to your shed. Even if the shed is under 200 square feet, some jurisdictions still require a separate permit to add these utilities to your shed.

How Big Of A Shed Can I Build Without A Permit in Oregon?

The largest sized shed you can build in Oregon without a permit is 200 square feet. So long as the shed is a detached, one-story, uninhabited structure. 

How Do I Get A Shed Permit in Oregon?

1. Check Local Regulations

Before getting started on the permit application process, you’ll want to get in contact with the local city or country building department, as requirements for building a shed can vary from place to place.  From there, you can find out if your shed even requires a permit before being built. Below is a list of resources for each county in Oregon as well as some cities, so you can find out what your local regulations are. 

2. Review Zoning and Land Use Codes

As touched upon earlier, location and placement is another factor that can influence the construction of your shed. Checking your zoning and land use codes allows you to understand the setback requirements, lot coverage limits, and height requirements for your shed.

3. Prepare Your Site Plan

When submitting your permit application, you’ll need to show where you plan to build the shed on your property as well as the measurements of the shed, distances to property lines, other structures, and any easements. You may also be required to include details about the types of materials you plan to use, the shed’s dimensions, and its foundation type. You’ll want to have this information prepared ahead of time to include in your permit application.

4. Complete The Permit Application

To fill out the permit application, you’ll want to obtain the form from your local building department. Some cities or counties may have permit applications available online. Once you complete the application, you’ll want to include the aforementioned documents and proof of property ownership or HOA approval if required. Once all that is done, be sure to pay the required permit fees. 

5. Submit Your Application

Once your application is together, you can submit it in-person or online, depending on what your local building department allows. After it’s submitted, your building department will review the application to ensure your shed meets all the requirements. It can take a few days or weeks to get approval once submitted.

6. Schedule Inspections

An inspection may be required if your shed requires a foundation. In that case, you’ll need to schedule the inspection and have an inspector ensure the foundation complies with your approved plan and the local codes. 

After the shed’s completion, a final inspection may also need to be scheduled to ensure that your structure is safe and has been constructed according to the approved plans.

7. Obtain Your Permit and Begin Construction

After receiving approval on your permit application, you can begin construction.

8. Post-Construction Requirements

Once you have passed the final inspection, you may receive a certificate of completion to display, indicating that your shed meets all the regulatory requirements.

Local Shed Permit Resources

Shed Permits in Oregon Requirements By County

Below is a list of resources to help you determine the shed permit requirements in your county. These include the proper government body to contact, building and zoning regulations, and an online application and fee schedule if they are available online. 

Shed Permit Requirements in Oregon By City

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Albany, Oregon?

A building permit is required to construct a shed that is over 200 square feet (residential) or 120 square feet (commercial) or if the structure is over ten feet high.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Arlington, Oregon?

It is unclear at this time as they do not have many resources on their website. Please contact them to determine the requirements for constructing a shed.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Bend, Oregon?

Yes, if the shed you plan to build is over 200 square feet or higher than 10 feet, a permit is required.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Condon, Oregon?

A permit is required in order to construct a shed in Condon, Oregon. 

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Cottage Grove, Oregon?

Cottage Grove requires that you obtain a conditional use permit if the structure you plan to build is taller than 14 feet or larger than 600 square feet. Structures larger than 400 square feet or higher than one-story must meet their architectural design standards.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Eugene, Oregon?

A permit is not required if the shed you plan to build is 200 square feet or less or the wall height is 10 feet or less. Anything larger or higher than that requires a permit.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Grant’s Pass, Oregon?

According to the Grant’s Pass Building Division, they have adopted the Oregon State Building Code, meaning that a permit is required for sheds that are more than 200 square feet.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Halsey, Oregon?

Yes, a permit is required for sheds that are larger than 200 square feet or taller than 10 feet high.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Hermiston, Oregon?

If your shed is less than 200 square feet or under 15 feet tall, a permit is not required. For any shed’s exceeding those dimensions, a permit is required.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Medford, Oregon?

A permit is likely required to build a shed according to Medford’s Building Safety Department.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Milton-Freewater, Oregon?

It is currently unclear in what situation a permit would be required to construct a shed. Please consult their planning department for additional information.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Oregon City, Oregon?

A permit is required for structures larger than 200 square feet or those that are being used for more than simple storage.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Portland, Oregon?

You will need a shed permit in Portland if the shed you plan to build is larger than 200 square feet or less than 15 feet tall.

Do I Need A Shed Permit in Salem, Oregon?

You need a permit for your structure unless it is less than 200 square feet and has a height lower than 10 feet.

How Long Does It Take To Get Shed Permits in Oregon?

The time it takes to get a shed permit in Oregon can range from a few days to a couple of weeks. It all depends on how many permits the government has to process and if there are any holidays. Typically, it should be processed within two weeks.

How Much Do Shed Permits In Oregon Cost?

The cost of a shed permit in Oregon can range between $50 to $200, depending on your shed’s size, location, and local jurisdiction requirements. Visit their planning or building department website to see if they have their permit fee schedule online.

What Is The Penalty For Not Getting A Shed Permit in Oregon?

The exact penalty you may face for not getting a shed permit in Oregon will vary depending on location. However, here are some common penalties you may face for failing to comply with building codes or zoning regulations:

• Fines: A fine may be incurred for failing to obtain a permit. These fines can vary depending on the severity of the violation and local regulations.

• Stop Work Order: This order may be issued to instruct you to stop construction on the shed until proper permits are obtained.
• Remediation Costs: You might also be required to remove or alter the shed to comply with regulations, which can incur added costs for your shed construction project.

• Increased Fees: If you fail to obtain the permit and have to get one after already beginning construction, you may face additional permit fees compared to those if you had gotten one beforehand.

• Insurance Issues: If your shed never received a permit or passed inspection, your insurance company may deny the claims you submit, making you responsible for any damages or liabilities.

Other FAQs

Can I Live In A Shed in Oregon?

Yes, in most areas of Oregon, you can live in a shed as long as it complies with tiny home regulations. For additional information regarding tiny home in Oregon, read their PDF about their regulations.

How Close Can You Build A Shed To The Property Line in Oregon?

In Oregon, the setback requirements can vary depending on your local zoning codes and regulations. For example, in Portland, sheds must be at least 5 feet away from the rear property line and 2 feet from the side property line.

How Long Does A Building Permit Last in Oregon?

Building permits can expire if you do not begin construction within 180 days of receiving the permit. Once you start construction, the permit will not expire unless you end construction for more than 180 days. You can often request an extension from your local building department if you need one.

Ready To Build Your Shed?

Please contact us if you have any questions about acquiring permits to build your shed. We’re here to assist you every step of the way, from helping you design the shed to bringing it to life. Browse our various shed styles or begin designing your shed in 3D to get started.