Fee Changes

ORS 455.210 requires local programs to adopt permit and inspection fees by ordinance. The steps involved in crafting ordinances may vary from one jurisdiction to the next. Once the local jurisdiction drafts a proposed fee change or increase ordinance, it notifies the Building Codes Division at least 45 calendar days before the adoptive date of the increase, which may be different than the effective date. In the notice, the building official provides the following information:

• The affected specialty codes or program areas:
  This item can be stated broadly; ex., Oregon Structural Specialty Code, electrical program.
• The proposed fees:
  Include the approximate percentage increase.
• The date of the last fee increase:
  If the program has not had a fee increase or change, this is not necessary.
• Adoptive and effective dates:
  Include the date approval for the fee increase is granted by the local governing body, and the date the increases will go into effect.
• Opportunities for public comment:
  Either a public hearing – including the date, time, and location of the hearing – or a period for written comment and where to send the comments.
• Contact information:
  Typically, this is the building official.
• Short description of the need for the new or changed fee.

After receiving the notice, the Building Codes Division notifies interested persons. The division does not review the notice for legal sufficiency.

Fees may be appealed within 60 calendar days after the fee is adopted. Please note that the adoptive date could precede the effective date by several months.