The Building and Safety Division of the Community Development Department encompasses construction plans review, inspection services, and permitting; vocational business licensing; multifamily-housing licensing; parking permit services; and other development/permit application information. 

Our promise to our customers is ensure public safety while consistently honoring their need for professional service by offering predictable, friendly assistance and efficiency through streamlined processes  that promote positive community and business relationships.

Check out our Division Highlights while you're visiting and our Hours & Other Info for hours of operation and other important Division information.  Please stay tuned to our website and look for new information and services being posted all the time!

City of Salem, OR Building Code

We are intentional about providing excellent customer service, and we appreciate your comments and feedback.  Please let us know how we are doing by completing our Customer Service Survey.  

Fees and valuation table information

Important Note:  Site Plan Review is REQUIRED for Commercial Building Project submittals - this requirement may affect timelines on the building process.

Permit and License Fees

After review by the Building Codes Division, open public hearing, and approval through the City of Salem's public Council meeting process, our fees and methodology are adopted annually.  As a result, all of our applications are also updated during this time.  For this reason, please avoid keeping hardcopies on file and print from the application forms listing below, available for immediate use!

See our Building & Safety home page for fee details and application forms!

This Permits Section will help you transact your permitting/licensing business with the City of Salem.  In order to complete any application process, it is necessary to bring required information, materials, and payments to the Permit Application Center on the 3rd floor of City Hall, 555 Liberty Street SE, Room 320 - if you are unsure what these required items entail, please call us at (503) 588-6256, option 3.  If you are unsure when a permit is required, you can call the same number and request to speak with a Permit Technician or a Plans Examiner.  Review the links below for additional information on the permit you might be inquiring about.  

E-Permitting assists Licensed Contractors 

Licensed Contractors can now request many types of Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing permits online using the State of Oregon's e-permitting system - note the restrictions section, and try this user-friendly way to apply for and pay for over-the-counter permits.

Currently, we can only process certain payments via the Internet such as alarm permit renewals, then police protective and multifamily license renewals.  We acceptcredit/debit, check, cash, or money order as form of payment.

Using the information and services available on this website can greatly speed up transacting your business with the City of Salem. Another good source of information regarding permits and contractors can be found at http://permitsprotect.info/ .

Don't forget to check the current status of any pending permits or plan review ONLINE!

• General Permit Requirements
• All B&S Application Forms
• Customized Permit Services  
• Dwelling Permit
• Electrical Permit 
• Manufactured Dwelling Permit
• Mechanical Permit 
• Alarm Permit -- monitoring permit repealed January 10, 2013 - installation permits still required as per Building Code
• Required Licenses 

You need a business license to operate certain types of businesses in Salem. You also need a license to operate a special event at your property when you charge a fee for that event. All businesses are required to comply with occupancy requirements, building codes, zoning rules, and land use regulations.

Fees for business licenses vary by license type.

Standards for other activities

Though a business license is not required, Salem Revised Code sets standards for a variety of activities. Some of the most common include:

• Home business [SRC Chapter 700]
• Christmas tree sales
• Sidewalk sales and cafes [SRC 78.240]

​​No license required

The following types of businesses do not require a license:

• Limousine driver
• Ambulance driver
• Funeral escort drivers
• Janitorial services
• Cleaning services
• Online businesses

Additional information

State of Oregon business registration: All businesses in Oregon must register a business name.

Oregon Liquor license applications are processed by the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC).

The detailed municipality information displayed on this page is not a property of America's Building Records (ABR). This information is complied for your convenience from the municipality's official website. For the most up-to-date information please visit their official website.