Residential Permits
When is a Residential Permit Needed?
Typical projects that require a building permit include:
- New construction of a single family dwelling
- New construction of a duplex or a secondary dwelling unit
- Additions, alterations, and remodels to existing structures
- Construction of a deck Opens a New Window. or retaining wall
- Accessory structures such as a garage, carport, or shop
- Garage conversion to living space
- Specialty permits for plumbing Opens a New Window. , electrical Opens a New Window. , and/or mechanical Opens a New Window. only
There are some projects that do not require a building permit such as a small storage shed or play equipment. Work exempt from a permit still needs to meet building code requirements as well as local code requirements (setbacks, height, etc.).
Prepare for the Residential Permit Process
Zoning Land is zoned for certain types of development and use. Each zone has a set of regulations governing the uses, building, setbacks, height and other development standards.
- Zoning maps are available online.
- The Eugene Code, including Chapter 9 Land Use, is available online.
Property Research A record search application can be submitted to determine the permit history on a property.
Codes in Effect Codes are updated on a regular basis, therefore, it is important to have the latest code information.
Stormwater Management The City's Stormwater Management Manual provides information about requirements for managing stormwater runoff and offers design options as well.
Erosion Prevention The Erosion Prevention Program monitors construction sites to ensure protection of city stormwater systems and natural resources.
Utilities Your project will involve our local franchise utilities. Contacting them prior to construction will assure that new and existing connections happen smoothly.
- Complete EWEB's New Service Form for new construction and remodels.
- Contact Northwest Natural at 503-220-2360 and request an Energy Advisor prior to pouring foundations for new construction for gas service.
Green Building: The City of Eugene provides green building information and resources with the goal of making green building practices the norm in Eugene.
Additional Information Other resources include our FAQs and the Residential Fee Estimating Worksheet. Please contact us if you have any additional questions.
Applying for a Residential Permit
Apply Online If your project requires plan review, you must submit your application and construction drawings electronically through eBuild. All projects submitted through eBuild must meet residential file naming standards. By applying online you can:
- Submit your application and drawings
- Track the status of your project
- Pay fees
- Choose contractors associated with your project
To best facilitate your project, add consultants and other project members to your eBuild account. Any updates communicated through eBuild will be sent to those on the project’s account.
Trade Permits Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits that do not require a plan review can be issued in person at the counter while the customer waits or you can apply online through eBuild (Trade Permits). The following will be required:
- Permit application
- including the job site address and contractor information.
- Fees. See application for associated fees.
Residential Express Permits Projects that qualify for the residential express permit program can be applied for through eBuild. You will be able to submit your application and drawings, and choose an appointment time to meet with reviewers. Under most circumstances, you permit(s) will be issued on the same day as your appointment which allows you to begin construction on your project immediately.
Project Plan Review
If a project requires plan review, a project coordinator will be assigned to the project. They will perform the plan review, coordinate with other staff (Public Works, Engineering, Land Use, Fire), and act as the primary contact person. When you submit your plans you will receive a log number, which can be used to track your project through the review process. Plan review timeframes vary depending on the scope of the proposed project.
Plans are reviewed for compliance with State and City regulations, and the following are some examples:
| Compliance Examples | |
|---|---|
| Land Use | Use of building, lot size, building setbacks, height and other development standards |
| Erosion | Construction site management, erosion control measures for anticipated site conditions |
| Public Works | Connections to streets and utilities, floodplain requirements, SDCs, other site related |
| Building Code | Code compliance, structural integrity, energy conservation, fire safety |
| Fire | Site access, firefighting water supply |
Supplemental Information
Supplemental information can be submitted up until the permit begins its review cycle. After the review cycle begins, you will be charged the hourly review rate. You do not have to wait for a response from the City requesting more information. However, the more information you can provide up front, the more thorough the review team can be initially.
After the review is complete and your plans have been approved, your project coordinator will contact you with the total fees due for your permit. The log number will become your permit number once the permit is issued.
Beginning Construction
When your project has been approved for permit issuance, you will print out the approved construction drawings and permit(s). You will have 360 days from the day the permit is issued to begin construction on your project in order to keep your permits active. Each time you request an inspection, your permit expiration date will be extended for another 360 days. You will also be eligible for a one time extension of 180 days at no cost during the life of construction. You can check the status of inspections online with the online permit tracking system. After all inspections have been approved, a Certificate of Compliance or Certificate of Occupancy can be printed for your records.
Contractors and owners often have a need to occupy a building before all inspections have been approved and the final Certificate of Occupancy can be issued. If there are no outstanding fire life safety issues, you may request a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO), which involves requesting final inspections for most outstanding areas. if you have questions regarding obtaining a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy, contact Inspection Support staff at 541-682-5283.