Where do I start?

Development Process Overview

The development process with the City of Salem can be summarized into three general components: Land Use, Public Infrastructure, and the Building Permit processes. Larger development projects (i.e., subdivisions, major commercial/industrial developments) will usually involve all three components; smaller projects (i.e., single family dwellings, remodels, sewer repairs) may only involve one.

Land Use

Typically, the first step in development is Land Use. Please investigate the Land Use information if your project requires an annexation, partition, subdivision, comprehensive plan change, zone change, conditional use, or variance. Also, an Urban Growth Development Permit may be required if your project is located outside of the Urban Service Area. Your project could experience a considerable delay if the Land Use issues are not resolved as early as possible.

Public Infrastructure

Many developments require the construction of public infrastructure (i.e., streets, sewer mains, storm drains, water mains, fire service connections). These public projects usually include plan reviews, improvement agreements, construction permits, and inspections. Before designing your project, you should find out from the Public Works Department where the utility mains and service lines are near your property and whether or not they are available for connection.

If utilities are not available or if the development requires the construction of a public street or utility, the developer is responsible to pay for all plan review, permit, design, and construction costs. Because these projects must be designed by a professional engineer registered in the State of Oregon, please contact an engineer to discuss the public infrastructure requirements for your project.

Building Permit Process

The Building Permit Process is actually broken into two general categories: Building permits and Public Works permits. Building permits are required for alarm, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, structural, and fire systems. Public Works permits are required for driveways, sidewalks, storm drain lines, sewer lines, water meters, and floodplains. Also included in Public Works permits are Systems Development Charges, assessments, connection fees, and other related fees.

Building Permit projects usually require plan reviews from several departments within the City, and each department must approve the plans before permits are available. You will likely need a project manager to coordinate the design changes required by each department. Land Use actions or Public Infrastructure requirements may be placed upon the project prior to approval of plans. Once the plans review process is complete, inspections will be required. Please note that building permit inspectors can be reached at 503-588-6256, and the Public Works inspectors can be reached at 503-588-6333.

You can find additional helpful information regarding permits and contractors at http://permitsprotect.info/.