Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in Portland: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the Portland Permitting & Development.
Permit Fees
Fees updated annually by Portland Permitting & Development. Contact Development Services Center for project-specific estimates.
Processing Time
Varies by project. Contact Portland Permitting & Development at 503-823-7300.
Apply Online
Yes — via DevHub
Building Code
2021 Oregon Residential Specialty Code (based on 2021 IRC with Oregon amendments)
Contact: 503-823-7300
No building permit required if: no part of the walking surface is more than 30 inches above adjacent grade AND no portion of the deck is closer than 3 feet to an adjacent property line. Zoning requirements still apply even for exempt decks.
If your deck does NOT meet all exemption criteria, you must obtain a permit before construction. Building without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, and required demolition.
Review the exemption criteria above. If your deck exceeds any threshold, a permit is required.
You'll need a site plan, deck dimensions, framing details, and footing specifications. Check Portland's specific documentation requirements.
Apply through DevHub . Pay the permit fee at submission.
Once approved, post your permit visibly and schedule required inspections (typically footing, framing, and final).
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Sources
Data verified April 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always confirm current information with Portland's Portland Permitting & Development.