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The Chief Building Official supervises the Community Development Division. The Division is responsible for all building inspections and code enforcement activities. Building codes have been enacted by the City Council to ensure minimum standards are met for buildings and structures constructed within the city. |
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Code Enforcement is responsible for enforcing ordinances that regulate zoning, substandard structures, high weed, etc. When the code enforcement staff identifies a violation, the property owners will be notified about the violation by mail, door hangers, or in person. Certain types of complaints have a specific process that is required by law to be followed. Each case demands time and attention that includes a follow up inspection to verify compliance. Certain cases require a lien to be filed against the property or municipal court action. | |
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Portland's Building Approval Process 1. Permits are the first step in the City's building approval process and are the vehicles that the city uses to inspect all construction work as it progresses. Permits are required to erect, alter, or enlarge any structure, including swimming pools and fences; install, alter, repair, or replace any electrical wiring; install, alter, repair, or replace any plumbing or mechanical equipment. Plans must be drawn to scale, dimension and of sufficient clarity to be easily read. Plans must show the property lines, location of the buildings in relation to the property lines, all easements and setback lines. The permitting process also helps verify that the contractors have the proper licenses or registrations required by city ordinance or state law. Many contractors such as plumbers, irrigators, electricians, and air conditioning contractors must have a state license. Homebuilders and some persons doing remodel work must hold a state registration. 2. Inspections are the second step in the City's building approval process. Inspections are required through out the course of construction to verify proper materials and construction methods are being used. The contractor must request that the city perform the proper inspection at the proper stage of work. A final inspection is required before the city will release a structure for occupancy. 3. Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.) is the third step in the City's building approval process. A Certificate of Occupancy, or C.O., is required for all buildings or structures that are to be occupied. When a tenant leases a new space, a new C.O. is required. Utilities will be released in the new tenant's name upon the issuance of a C.O. A Certificate of Occupancy is required when a new building is constructed; a new use for a building or lease space is established; or the tenant or ownership has changed. The Chief Building Official may, in writing, suspend or revoke a Certificate of Occupancy whenever it is determined that the certificate was issued in error, or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or when it is determined that the building, a portion of the building or structure is in violation of any ordinance, regulation, or provision of the building codes. Additional information may be obtained by contacting us at (361) 777-3605. To view or download the Unified Development Ordinance, click here. | |
