Planning a Backyard Build? Here’s What to Know About Permits
By OJB Solutions – Licensed Contractors Serving the Portland Metro Area
Adding new features to your backyard is one of the best ways to improve your property’s function, value, and style. Whether you're planning a deck, shed, patio, fence, or accessory building, there's one critical step you can’t skip: permits.
Permits protect you, your neighbors, and your investment. They also ensure that your project is built safely, to code, and in compliance with Oregon state and local regulations.
At OJB Solutions, we help homeowners throughout the Portland metro area navigate the permit process and build legally. Here's what you need to know before breaking ground.
Do You Always Need a Permit?
Not always—but more often than you think. It depends on what you're building, where you live, and how big or tall the structure is.
In general, you’ll need a permit if your backyard project:
Requires a foundation or footings
Is attached to your home or another structure
Has electrical, plumbing, or gas lines
Exceeds certain height or size limits
Is considered a permanent structure
Impacts drainage, setbacks, or property lines
Different cities—like Portland, Gresham, or Oregon City—have slightly different rules, but most follow Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC) as the baseline.
Common Projects That Often Require Permits
Decks
If your deck is over 30 inches above grade or attached to your home, it almost always requires a permit. Floating decks under that height might not—but it's worth checking.
Sheds and Accessory Buildings
Most jurisdictions allow small sheds (under 200 square feet) without a permit. But anything larger, or with electrical hookups, must be permitted and built to code.
Fences
Standard fences under 7 feet high typically don't need permits, but corner lots and fences near driveways or sidewalks may have visibility restrictions or zoning rules.
Pergolas, Gazebos, and Covered Patios
If it has a roof or is attached to your house, you probably need a permit. Even freestanding shade structures can require approval depending on size and location.
Retaining Walls
Any wall over 4 feet tall, or supporting a slope, requires a permit and sometimes engineering. Walls under 4 feet that don’t support surcharge loads may not need one.
Plumbing and Electrical Upgrades
Running water to an outdoor kitchen? Adding lighting to a pergola? These types of work almost always require permits and licensed contractors.
What Happens If You Skip the Permit?
It’s tempting to avoid the hassle, but skipping permits can cost you in the long run. Here’s why:
Fines and stop-work orders from the city
Problems when selling your home (unpermitted work often delays or derails closings)
Safety issues from non-inspected structures
Insurance coverage denial in the event of damage or injury
Permits might feel like red tape, but they’re designed to protect your investment and your safety.
How OJB Solutions Helps You Stay Compliant
When you work with us, we take the guesswork out of the process. We:
Advise you on what requires a permit and what doesn’t
Handle all paperwork, submittals, and inspections
Coordinate with engineers and designers if needed
Build everything to Oregon code and local city standards
Save you time, headaches, and possible penalties
Whether we’re installing a Trex deck, demolishing an old fence, or building a brand-new outdoor structure, you can trust us to do it right—and legal.
Serving Homeowners Across the Portland Metro Area
We work in:
Portland
Tigard
Oregon City
West Linn
Clackamas
Gresham
Happy Valley
Milwaukie
Tualatin
Beaverton
Lake Oswego
Wilsonville and beyond
We understand local permit requirements and build relationships with inspectors to help your project move forward smoothly.
Ready to Build? Start With a Free Consultation
If you’re planning a backyard project and want it done right—safely, legally, and to code—reach out today. We’ll walk you through what’s required and give you a clear plan from start to finish.
Call or text: (503) 882-0704
Email: contact@oregonjunkbusters.com
Website: ojbsolutions.com
Licensed. Insured. Permit-savvy. Built for Portland.
