Some counties welcome barndominiums, but metro and suburban areas may restrict them.
The Building Codes Division (BCD) adopts and enforces the OSSC statewide. Local jurisdictions administer permits.
Primary Code
Oregon Structural Specialty Code (OSSC)
Code Version
2024 OSSC based on 2024 IBC
Adoption Level
Statewide
Statewide Enforcement
Yes
Portland metro has longer timelines. Rural eastern Oregon is faster.
Residential
Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Not Required
Size threshold: structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt.
Agricultural buildings on Exclusive Farm Use (EFU) zoned land may be exempt from structural permits under certain conditions.
Accessory structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt.
Cascadia Subduction Zone creates significant seismic risk in western Oregon. Mountain areas have extreme snow loads. Coastal wind exposure.
Wind Load
95–130 mph
moderate zone
Snow Load
15–150+ psf
Seismic
B–D
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
Oregon Energy Efficiency Specialty Code
Version
2024 OEESC
Strict energy code. Oregon reaches for above-code efficiency.
License Type
Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license
Oregon requires all contractors to be licensed through the CCB. General contractor, specialty, and residential endorsements available.
Front
20–30 ft
Side
5–10 ft
Rear
15–20 ft
Varies by jurisdiction. Riparian setbacks near waterways.
Seismic foundation design important in western OR. Rocky soils in mountains.
Standard permitting. Seismic design in western OR.
Agricultural exemptions on EFU land.
Limited acceptance. Land-use laws are strict. Rural eastern Oregon is most viable.
Standard permits required.
Full OSSC compliance required.
HOAs common in Portland suburbs. Eastern Oregon and rural areas generally unrestricted.
Flood zones along the Willamette, Columbia, and coastal rivers.
Verify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.
