You can download pre-approved plans for accessory structures like pole buildings, garages, carports, decks, and patios. The goal of this program is to reduce the time it takes for you to prepare the permit application information needed when you add a building to your property.

When you submit these pre-approved plans for your permit, submit them to the documents folder rather than the drawing folder. The required site plan should be uploaded to the drawings folder following the submittal guidelines.

Use the Ready-build Plans Program as follows:

1. Before downloading pre-approved plans, talk to a planner to learn about the setback, height, lot coverage, and other standards that apply to your property.
2. Download the ready-build plan you need from the list above.
3. Complete and a residential building permit application, and pay the plan review fees.
4. Your application and plans will go through the normal review process to make sure that the structure complies with the City’s requirements for adding a building to your property.
5. Once the plans are approved, pay the permit fees. The permit is issued and you can build the structure.
6. Once the structure is built, request an inspection to finalize the permit process.

Decks

Permits for a deck are required where the deck floor or decking is more than 30 inches above adjacent grade measured at any point within 3 feet horizontally from the deck meaning if you measure 3 feet out from the edge of the deck floor or decking horizontally, at any point, the line must remain below 30 inches from the grade to be exempt from a permit. If your deck requires a permit, you may opt to use the ready-build prescriptive deck plan.

Use the Ready-build Deck Plans as follows:

1. Before downloading pre-approved plans, contact the Planning Department to discuss potential requirements for setback, height, lot coverage, and other standards that apply to the land use and zoning of your property.
2. Download the Ready-build Deck plan and complete page twelve with project specific details. (Changes to these plans would require prior approval from the Building Official)
3. Create a site plan, drawn to scale, that includes all existing and proposed construction, north arrow, scale, lot dimensions, all property lines, setbacks, and corner elevations. Corner elevations can be obtained by calling Public Works at 503-588-6211.
4. Complete a Residential Building permit application.
5. Once the plans are approved and the permit fees are paid, the permit will be issued so that you can build the structure.
6. For inspections, follow the options listed on your permit.