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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Medford
Medford states permits are needed for many building, ADU, deck, pool, demolition, reroof, wall, utility line, and other projects; some listed items may require review depending on scope.
- Exempt Medford publishes a local Do I Need a Permit? page and project list
- Exempt Some items may require review depending on scope, including retaining walls, above-ground pools, reroofing, patio covers, and utility line repair
- Exempt Oregon statewide residential exemptions apply where the local page does not require review
- Exempt Confirm zoning and setbacks with Planning before assuming exempt status
- Permit application
- Submittal guideline forms
- Plans
- Owner authorization or owner release where applicable
- Specialized forms such as energy, pool, demolition, revision, or SDC forms depending on project type
- Building code
- Oregon specialty codes as administered by the city.
- Permit validity
- Oregon 180-day permit validity rule generally applies unless extended locally.
- Owner-builder
- Medford publishes an Owner Release form for owner-performed residential building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work.
- Contractor requirements
- Oregon CCB and specialty licensing rules apply.
Application process
Typical processing: Residential permits average 14 days from application to issuance; commercial permits average 6 to 8 weeks once all required information has been submitted. Express and master permit programs can shorten certain timelines.
- 01 Confirm whether a permit is required and check zoning or setbacks with Planning first.
- 02 Review the city's residential or commercial submittal guidelines and gather the required forms and plans.
- 03 Email PDF applications and associated forms to Building Safety; once entered, the city opens portal access for the permit.
- 04 Respond to comments and correction requests.
- 05 Pay permit fees online or at the Building Safety counter.
- 06 Schedule inspections by portal, phone, or text; same-day inspections are available if requested by 7 a.m.
Typical processing time: Residential permits average 14 days from application to issuance; commercial permits average 6 to 8 weeks once all required information has been submitted. Express and master permit programs can shorten certain timelines.
Fee schedule
Effective July 1, 2024
Permit payments can be made online or at the Building Safety counter
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective July 1, 2024) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Online portal (online)
- 541-774-2350 (phone)
- 833-910-0981 (text)
- Scheduling deadline
- Requests received by 7 a.m. can be scheduled for the same day
Typical sequence: Project-specific; city requires work to be complete, pre-tested, uncovered, and accessible, with approved plans and permit paperwork on site
Remote virtual inspections are available for some residential inspection types; right-of-way inspections route to Public Works
Frequently asked
Common questions about Medford permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Medford, OR? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Medford, OR? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Medford, OR? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Medford, OR? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Medford, OR? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Medford, OR? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Medford Building Safety Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.