City Building Permits

Scappoose, OR - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Scappoose, Oregon. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Oregon Columbia County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

All properties within the incorporated City of Scappoose

Department
Community Development Center (CDC)
Phone
503-543-7184

Online Permit Portal

Platform: Accela • Account required: Yes • Submission: Online only

Application Process

  1. Use Oregon ePermitting system for structural, plumbing, and mechanical permits
  2. Licensed contractors and homeowners can apply online
  3. Electrical permits must be applied through Columbia County
  4. Septic permits must be applied through Columbia County
  5. All contractors working in Scappoose must have a City of Scappoose business license (Portland Metro licenses do NOT cover Scappoose)
  6. Contact CDC Office Administrator Elizabeth Happala at 503-543-7184 or ehappala@scappoose.gov for in-person support

General Requirements

Building permits required for new construction and alterations

Building code
Oregon statewide building codes
Contractor requirements
All contractors must have a City of Scappoose business license; Portland Metro licenses do NOT cover Scappoose

Fees

Permit fee formula
Based on ICC Building Valuation Data Table
Reinspection fee
Inspections outside normal business hours (minimum 2-hour charge)
Payment note
Deferred Submittals (65% of building permit fee, minimum $250)

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

  • Accessory structures (including ADUs) - requires permit review
  • Solar photovoltaic systems - permit available
  • Manufactured dwelling placement - permit available

Inspections

How to Schedule

  • 503-543-7184 (phone)
  • ehappala@scappoose.gov (email)

Typical inspection sequence: Building Department conducts inspections for code compliance

Additional Resources

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the Community Development Center (CDC) before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Scappoose Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Scappoose, OR?
Building permits required for new construction and alterations
How much does a building permit cost in Scappoose, OR?
Fees are calculated as: Based on ICC Building Valuation Data Table.
How do I apply for a building permit in Scappoose, OR?
1. Use Oregon ePermitting system for structural, plumbing, and mechanical permits 2. Licensed contractors and homeowners can apply online 3. Electrical permits must be applied through Columbia County 4. Septic permits must be applied through Columbia County 5. All contractors working in Scappoose must have a City of Scappoose business license (Portland Metro licenses do NOT cover Scappoose) 6. Contact CDC Office Administrator Elizabeth Happala at 503-543-7184 or ehappala@scappoose.gov for in-person support
What work is exempt from building permits in Scappoose, OR?
The following work is generally exempt: Accessory structures (including ADUs) - requires permit review; Solar photovoltaic systems - permit available; Manufactured dwelling placement - permit available.
How do I schedule a building inspection in Scappoose, OR?
Inspections can be scheduled via: 503-543-7184, ehappala@scappoose.gov.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

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