Building Permit Applications

Permits are now applied for online at BuildingPermits.Oregon.gov.

The City of Lafayette Building Department is part of the State’s ePermitting Basic Services Program. Click here to use ePermitting and follow the on-screen instructions.

When is a Permit Needed? 
In general, permits are required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system. Typical projects that require a building permit include:

• New construction of a single family dwelling
• New construction of a duplex or a secondary dwelling unit
• Additions, alterations, and remodels to existing structures
• Construction of a deck or retaining wall
• Accessory structures such as a garage, carport, or shop
• Garage conversion to living space
• Specialty permits for plumbing, electrical, and/or mechanical only

Work on multi-family / commercial structures almost always requires a structural (building) permit. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
• Change the use or occupancy in an existing building (tenant improvements)
• Fire and life safety alterations or additions (fire sprinklers, alarms, and detection systems)
• Replace or add new windows or doors, re-roofing or re-siding
• Seismic upgrades
• Build, demolish or move a detached accessory structure that is 120 square feet or greater
• Install non-fixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions 5 feet 9 inches or more in height
• Cell phone antenna upgrades or additions
• ADA upgrades

Certain work may be exempt from permits. Refer to Section R105.2 of the Oregon Residential Specialty Code (for one- and two-family residential) or Section 105.2 of the Oregon Structural Specialty Code (for multi-family/commercial projects) for more details. Work exempt from a permit still needs to meet building code requirements as well as local code requirements (setbacks, height, etc.).  

If you are not sure whether you need a permit, or are having difficulty creating a permit online, call the City of Lafayette Building Department at (503) 864-2451.