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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Josephine County
All new construction and specific alterations (structural, plumbing, mechanical, electrical changes) require a building permit in Oregon.
- Building code
- Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC, 2023, adopted October 1, 2023), Oregon Structural Specialty Code (OSSC), Oregon Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing codes, fire/life/safety codes
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors working for compensation on construction improvements must be licensed by Oregon CCB. Exceptions: gutter cleaning, power/pressure washing, handyman work under $1,000. License requires pre-license training (16 hours), exam passage, insurance, surety bond, and $325 two-year application fee.
Application process
Typical processing: Timeline may be extended due to limited staff and significant workload.
- 01 Obtain portal access code from Building Safety Division by calling 541-474-5421 or 541-474-5405
- 02 Submit permit application and required documents via Online Public Portal
- 03 Application processed and applicant notified of acceptance or deficiencies
- 04 Applicant pays applicable plan review and permit fees after approval
- 05 Schedule inspection requests through portal
- 06 Construction proceeds with required inspections at each phase
Typical processing time: Timeline may be extended due to limited staff and significant workload.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Online Public Portal (online)
- 541-474-5405 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Inspection requests must be received by 11:00 pm to be scheduled for the next day.
- Inspection hours
- Monday–Friday, 8 am–12 pm and 1 pm–3 pm
Typical sequence: Required at multiple construction phases (foundation, framing, mechanical/electrical/plumbing rough-in, final). Illinois Valley Area: inspections performed Monday, Wednesday, and Friday only; electrical inspections may have limited availability.
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Josephine County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Josephine County, OR? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Josephine County, OR? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Josephine County, OR? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Josephine County, OR? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Josephine County Building Safety Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.