Handling Concerns

If you suspect someone is building or renovating a structure without a required permit, you have several options:

• Is a permit required?
  You can review regulations about work exempt from permit:
  
  • Oregon Structural Specialty Code (OSSC) R105.2
  • Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC) R105.2
• Has a permit been issued?
  
  • You can search for permits online. Enter only the house number and street name (e.g., "555 Liberty" rather than "555 Liberty St NE").
  • You can contact the Permit Application Center to verify the existence of a permit.
• How can you report a problem?
  
  • You can contact the Permit Application Center to start an investigation or submit your complaint online.
  • You will be required to provide your full name, address, phone number, and email (if applicable). Anonymous complaints will not be investigated.
  • Building activity must be visible from the public right-of-way to be investigated.

Investigations may be started for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to:

• Citizen complaint
• Compliance Services report
• Inspector report
• Individual self-reports

Investigating a Complaint

• When a complaint is received, an Inspector is assigned to investigate and verify that a violation exists.
• If the Inspector determines that a violation exists, all communications about correcting the situation will be made with the property owner.
• Where possible, the Inspector and the property owner will work together informally to establish the compliance steps that must be taken and a reasonable timeline.
• A written correction notice may be issued at any point in the investigation. The correction notice will include:
  
  • Specific instructions to be followed
  • A specified time period for completing the specific instructions
  • The Inspector's name and contact information
• Investigation fees may be imposed when the required permits are obtained.

Enforcing Compliance

Failure to comply with a correction notice will lead to the following:

1. An Enforcement order for compliance. Generally, the enforcement order requires compliance within 15 calendar days.
2. Continued failure to comply will result in civil penalties which may be up to $5,000 per violation per day.

Civil penalties are issued to the property. Unpaid penalties can adversely affect the sale of a property.