On this page 6
§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Rainier
All new construction requires a building permit
- Building code
- Oregon Residential and Structural Specialty Codes
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors must hold valid Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license
§ 03
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Licensed contractors can apply for most building permits online via Oregon ePermitting
- 02 Applications may be submitted in person to Columbia County offices at 445 Port Avenue, Port Business Center, St. Helens
- 03 Contact: Columbia County Building Division, 503-397-1501
- 04 All contractors must hold valid Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license
- 05 Plan review and field inspections conducted before completion
§ 04
Fee schedule
Effective September 1, 2025
Fee type
Amount
01
Permit fee formula
Based on ICC Building Valuation Data Table × square footage
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective September 1, 2025) before budgeting.
§ 05
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
How to schedule
- 503-397-1501 (phone)
Typical sequence: Columbia County Building staff conduct inspections for Rainier; plan examinations and field inspections required
§ 06
Frequently asked
Common questions about Rainier permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Rainier, OR? ▸
All new construction requires a building permit
02 How much does a building permit cost in Rainier, OR? ▸
Building permit fees in Rainier, OR are set by the local building department and vary by project type and valuation. Fees are calculated as: Based on ICC Building Valuation Data Table × square footage.
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Rainier, OR? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Rainier, OR, follow these steps: 1. Licensed contractors can apply for most building permits online via Oregon ePermitting 2. Applications may be submitted in person to Columbia County offices at 445 Port Avenue, Port Business Center, St. Helens 3. Contact: Columbia County Building Division, 503-397-1501 4. All contractors must hold valid Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license 5. Plan review and field inspections conducted before completion
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Rainier, OR? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Rainier, OR via: 503-397-1501.
last verified April 2026
entry id permits/oregon/columbia/rainier
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Columbia County Building Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.