Phone: 503-823-7300
Email: bds@portlandoregon.gov
1900 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97201
Structural Engineering
Current Codes:
- 2019 Oregon Structural Specialty Code (OSSC) based on the 2018 International Building Code
- 2017 Oregon Residential Specialty Code based on the 2015 International Residential Code (ORSC)
- ASCE 41-13 "Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of Existing Buildings" as referenced by Title 24.85.
If you have a structural engineering related question, please call (503) 823-1302 and leave a message. Your call will be returned promptly by a staff member well suited to answer your question.
Structural Design Requirements
Items address frequently asked questions concerning structural design requirements within the jurisdiction of the City of Portland.
Commercial Permits
The current state building code governing commercial and engineered residential construction is the 2019 Oregon Structural Specialty Code (OSSC), which is based upon the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) as amended by the State of Oregon.
Residential Permits
The structural requirements for residential projects may be either prescriptive or engineered. In prescriptive design, the ORSC (Oregon Residential Specialty Code) defines a conservative method of construction to resist vertical and lateral loads.
Miscellaneous Structures
Transmission and Cell Towers, Signs and Fabric Covered Awnings and Floating Structures
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the URM database?
- What are the structural requirements for underpinning residential structures using slender piles?
- If I am advised that my project could be approved over the counter, but I need to come back with more information, do I need to see the structural plan reviewer?
- What does it mean when the structural plan reviewer says we need to "take in" your project?
- Why do I need to hire an engineer just to remodel?
Useful Links
State of Oregon—Building Codes Division, Engineering Board (OSBEELS), Structural Engineers Association of Oregon (SEAO) and etc.