Building or remodeling a home in Central Oregon offers exciting opportunities—but it also comes with the responsibility of navigating local building codes, zoning laws, and permit requirements. Whether you’re constructing a custom home in Bend, renovating a historic cottage in Sisters, or adding a guesthouse in Redmond, understanding the permitting process is essential to avoid costly delays and ensure a smooth, compliant build.
At Cornerstone Residential, we work closely with municipalities across Deschutes, Jefferson, and Crook counties to make sure every project meets or exceeds regulatory standards. This guide walks you through the key steps and considerations when it comes to permits and building regulations in Central Oregon.
1. Understand the Jurisdiction
Before applying for any permits, it’s important to determine which agency oversees your property. In Central Oregon, this depends on your location:
- City of Bend handles permits within city limits
- Deschutes County governs unincorporated areas outside city boundaries
- Other cities like Redmond, La Pine, and Sisters each have their own building departments
Use the Deschutes County Property Information tool to verify your property’s jurisdiction and zoning details.
2. Types of Projects That Require Permits
You’ll need permits for a variety of building activities. These include:
- New home construction
- Additions, such as extra bedrooms or garages
- Major remodels, including structural changes
- Electrical, plumbing, or HVAC upgrades
- Decks, porches, and some fencing installations
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
At Cornerstone Residential, we help clients identify which projects require permitting and manage the submission process for them.
3. Zoning and Land Use Regulations
Each parcel in Central Oregon is subject to zoning regulations that dictate how the land can be used. Zoning will affect:
- Lot coverage and setbacks
- Building height restrictions
- Use allowances (e.g., residential, agricultural, mixed-use)
- ADU eligibility
For example, the City of Bend has recently updated its rules to allow for more middle housing types, like duplexes and triplexes, in traditionally single-family neighborhoods. Familiarity with these changes can impact your project design and approval timeline.
Reference: City of Bend Planning & Zoning
4. The Permit Application Process
While the process varies by city or county, most permit applications follow these general steps:
- Pre-Application Meeting (optional but recommended)
Discuss your plans with the local planning department. - Submit Detailed Plans
Your submission must include site plans, elevations, structural details, and energy code compliance. - Plan Review
The building department reviews your project for zoning, safety, and code adherence. - Permit Issuance
Once approved, you’ll receive your permit, which must be displayed at the job site. - Inspections During Construction
You’ll need to schedule inspections at key milestones (e.g., foundation, framing, final).
5. Timelines and Costs
Permitting timelines can vary based on project complexity and jurisdictional workload. On average:
- Simple remodels may take 2–4 weeks
- New construction can take 6–10 weeks or more
- Historic district projects may require additional design reviews and approvals
Permit fees are typically based on the value of the project and can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.
Tip: Check current fee schedules on the Deschutes County Building Safety page.
6. Special Considerations in Central Oregon
Central Oregon’s environment adds a few unique factors to the permitting and building process:
- Wildfire zones: Many areas require fire-resistant materials and defensible space design
- Snow load requirements: Roof structures must meet local snow load standards
- Water and septic: Rural properties often require on-site septic systems and wells
- Energy code compliance: Oregon follows a statewide energy code with specific insulation and HVAC standards
Explore Oregon’s Building Codes Division here for detailed information.
7. How Cornerstone Residential Helps
Building codes and permits can be daunting, especially for homeowners unfamiliar with the process. At Cornerstone Residential, we simplify the experience by:
- Managing all permit applications and documentation
- Coordinating with city and county planners
- Designing projects that align with zoning and energy codes
- Scheduling required inspections on your behalf
- Communicating clearly at every step
We’ve helped clients across Central Oregon move from concept to completion without stress or surprises—because we handle the behind-the-scenes complexities for you.
Plan with Confidence, Build with Cornerstone
Permitting and regulations may seem like roadblocks, but with the right guidance, they become manageable steps on the path to your dream home or remodel. Whether you’re building from the ground up or making strategic upgrades, understanding the rules ensures your investment is secure—and your project runs smoothly.
Ready to get started? Contact Cornerstone Residential today and let us handle the paperwork while you focus on the vision.