Building Permits in Forest Grove, OR

A small at-grade concrete slab such as a walkway or patio pad is generally exempt from a building permit under the 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code as enforced by the City of Forest Grove Building Division. A slab that serves as the foundation for a structure, or that supports a building, requires a building permit. Zoning setbacks and lot coverage still apply.

A deck or porch is exempt from a building permit only if it is not more than 30 inches above grade (including steps) and its edge is no closer than 5 feet to a property line, under the 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code as enforced by the City of Forest Grove Building Division. A deck higher than 30 inches or closer than 5 feet to a line requires a permit, applied for through the State of Oregon ePermitting (Accela) portal. Zoning setbacks still apply.

A fence not over 6 feet high is exempt from a building permit under the 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code as enforced by the City of Forest Grove Building Division (pool and spa barrier fences are an exception and are regulated). A fence over 6 feet requires a permit. City zoning rules govern fence placement and height in front yards and at corners; see the city's residential fence requirements.

An at-grade uncovered concrete or paver patio is generally exempt from a building permit under the 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code as enforced by the City of Forest Grove Building Division. Adding a roof or covered structure over the patio makes it an accessory structure that may require a building permit. City zoning lot-coverage limits still apply.

A retaining wall not over 4 feet high measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, and not supporting a surcharge, is exempt from a building permit under the 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code as enforced by the City of Forest Grove Building Division. A taller wall, or any wall supporting a slope, driveway, or other surcharge, requires a permit and an engineered design. Drainage behind the wall is the owner's responsibility.