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How Do I...
The following are guides to frequently asked planning questions. For additional information on these topics, the Planning Division can be reached at 503-722-3789.
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Build an Accessory Building / Shed
An Accessory Structure is a detached building or structure subordinate in size and use, but located on the same lot as, a principal building.
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Build an Addition to My Home
All additions to your home require permits from both the Oregon City Planning and Building Divisions, and often review from Public Works, as well.
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Build a Deck
Permits from the Planning and Building Divisions are required for all decks over 2.5 feet (30 inches) above the ground or decks that are covered by a roof or canopy for an area of 200 square feet or greater.
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Build a Fence
In many cases, residential fences do not require a Building or Planning Review permit. However, all residential fences must meet the requirements in Oregon City's fence code.
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Comment on Land Use Applications (Effectively)
Public involvement is a requirement of the land use planning process in Oregon.
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Create Pollinator Gardens
Learn more about the importance of pollinator gardens and how they impact the environment.
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Draw a Site Plan for My Residential Building Project
An accurate, scaled site plan is required for most residential building permit applications for new construction or additions.
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Find a Map of My Property
The best way to get an accurate representation of your property lines is through a professional site survey.
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Find My Property Lines
A professional survey would accurately reflect the dimensions your property.
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Hire a Certified Arborist
According to Oregon City's code, a Certified Arborist is "a professional tree service provider whose certification is regulated and current and maintained with the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). To use the term 'Certified Arborist,' an individual must have three years of experience and have passed an ISA certification exam that tests a variety of tree care knowledge."
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Hire a Wetland Consultant
Wetland Consultants help delineate, protect, and restore ecologically sensitive lands near streams and wetlands.
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Identify the Front Lot Line of My Property
The identification of the front line of your property is helpful in determining your setbacks for development.
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Know if I Need a Tree Removal Permit
Though the City does not encourage removal of trees, sometimes it is necessary.
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Do You need Planning Approval?
Oregon City's Municipal Code governs most developments in the Oregon City Limits. Projects done outside the Oregon City Limits in Clackamas County are reviewed by Clackamas County Planning and Zoning.
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Learn About the Geologic Hazards Overlay
To determine if your property or project might be in the Geologic Hazard Overlay District, you can consult the Geologic Hazards Map.
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Nominate Heritage Trees & Stands
Heritage trees are those trees that because of their age, species, natural resource value, ecological or historical association, are of special importance to the city.
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Plant a Street Tree
A street tree is a community-owned tree that grows on City property.
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Remove & Replace a Street Tree
Street Tree Removal & Replacement Permits are free. The City requires them in order to ensure that street trees are replaced if removed from the public right-of-way.
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Rent out My House as a Short-Term Rental
See the rules for renting out your house as a short-term rental.
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Understand the Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) Process
This is an introduction to LUBA and how it handles land use appeals.
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Verify a Nonconforming Use / Structure / Lot
A non-conforming use or structure is one that was initially permitted, but no longer conforms to the regulations of the zoning district in which it is located.
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Verify a Zoning Designation
Zoning districts are established to promote efficient and compatible land uses around the City. The districts distinguish permitted uses for each property and dimensional standards, such as minimum lot size setbacks and height limitations.