Permitting FAQs

Is there a question you would like to see added to this list?  Email us!  building@milwaukieoregon.gov.

How do I know what jurisdiction my project is in?

Clackamas County has a great mapping tool that shows the jurisdiction of all properties in Clackamas County. Once on their webpage, you can start typing the address in the upper right hand corner to search.  As you type, the site will populate options to choose from. Click the correct address and the jurisdiction will be displayed on the next screen. You can change the menu to search by tax lot number or parcel number instead of address, or you can pan/zoom and select the property by clicking manually.  Here’s the link:  http://cmap.clackamas.us/maps/cmap

Category: Building FAQ
How many sets of plans do I need to submit?

The building division is completely digital, or paper-free, with the exception of electrical and plumbing plan reviews, which requires two paper sets.

Category: Building FAQ
How do I find building permit records?

You can submit a public records request at: https://www.milwaukieoregon.gov/cityrecorder/public-records-request-form or our records are available online back to 2012.  Residential plans are kept two (2) years and commercial plans are kept ten (10) years from the final date as per the State of Oregon retention schedule.

Category: Building FAQ
Why is the online permit system not giving me the option to create the permit type I want?

The only way the system knows which permits you can apply for is by the licenses associated with your account.  First, make sure all your licenses are linked. If you are still having issues, contact the State of Oregon at 1.800.442.7457.

Category: Building FAQ
Are permits required if I remodel my home?

Not all work requires a permit. The Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC) has a list of things that can be done without a building/structural permit in Chapter 1, Section R105 of the ORSC.  Visit the “Adopted Codes Online” page at http://www.oregon.gov/bcd/codes-stand/Pages/adopted-codes.aspx. Click on “Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC)”, Chapter 1, and scroll down to Section R105 (page 5) for the work exempt from permits list.

Category: Building FAQ
Are building permits expensive?

Typically, when customers think expensive they are confusing system development charges (SDCs) with permits.  SDCs do not apply to existing home remodels or additions.  They apply only to new dwelling units, such as a new house or ADU, and some commercial projects.

Category: Building FAQ
Do I have to hire a contractor to work on my home?

No, a contractor is not required. If you own the home and do not intend to sell it at this time, you may do the work yourself.

Category: Building FAQ
If I change contractors, can I use the same permit?

This question is handled on a case by case basis.  It depends on who paid for the permit originally, if work has started, etc. Please contact the building division.

Category: Building FAQ
Can a homeowner apply for permits online?

Yes!  For instructions, please send an email request to building@milwaukieoregon.gov with the address and a description of the project.

Category: Building FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed?

Please visit the shed information page at milwaukieoregon.gov/building/shed-maximum-requirements-without-permit

Category: Building FAQ