Generally, a permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, demolish, move, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, convert, or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system.
When do I need a building (structural) permit?
A permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, move or demolish any one- or two-family dwelling or related structure (other than in a Manufactured Home Park) For example:
• Add a room
• Build, demolish, or move a carport, garage, or shed of more than 200 square feet
• Finish an attic, garage, or basement to make additional living space
• Cut a new window or door opening, or widen existing openings
• Move, remove, or add walls
• Apply roofing when all of the old roofing is removed and new sheathing is installed
• Build a stairway
• Build a retaining wall more than four feet high
• Building a deck more than 30 inches above grade
• Put up a fence more than six feet high
If you are not sure if you need a permit, call the City of Wilsonville Building Division at 503-682-4960.
What information will I need to get a permit?
In order to obtain a permit, you will need the following:
1. The address and legal description of the property
2. A description of the work proposed
3. The owner's name, address, and phone number
4. If a contractor is doing the work, the contractor's name, address, phone number, and state license number and Metro and or City Business License
5. Two sets of plans for remodels and new construction of homes that clearly show all work on the building including erosion control where the building is located on the property
Typical plans include a site plan, floor plans, and cross sections showing construction details.
Who must review my project?
An Oregon-certified plans examiner will review your plans to ensure the proposed project meets the requirements of the One-and Two-Family Dwelling Specialty Code. If additional information or changes are necessary, you will be contacted to furnish more the information.
Who obtains the permit?
As the owner of a one- or two-family dwelling, you can hire a contractor registered by the Construction Contractors Board or you can get the permit and do the work yourself. An immediate family member, a friend, neighbor, tenant, or other relative can legally work on your one- or two-family dwelling only if the work is not for compensation.
How long does it take to get a permit? 
A plan review generally takes up to two weeks for one- and two-family dwellings. Time frames can change, depending on the complexity of the project and the completeness of the information you submit with your application.
When you submit your plans, you will be asked to pay the plan review fee. You may also pay the structural permit fee at that time or when the permit is issued.
When your plans have been reviewed, stamped "approved" and signed, one set will be returned to you with your permit.
Get Legal Program for Expired Permits or Work Done without the benefit of a Permit -
The Building Division currently offers a Get Legal program if you find that your permits have expired by limitation or work has been done without the benefit of a permit.
Each case is reviewed individually.
1) Contact the Building Division at 503-682-4960 to pay for an investigation inspection.
2) After the intial inspection is performed you will work with the Building Division to receive a tailored plan to legalize the work.
3) If Electrical is involved you will be required to contact Clackamas County.
ATTENTION - CALL BEFORE YOU DIG!
All projects are required by Oregon Law to follow rules adopted by the Oregon Utility Notification Center. Those rules are set forth in OAR 952-001-0010 through 952-001-0090. You may obtain copies of the rules by calling the Oregon Utility Notification Center at 811.