The Washington County Community Development Department announced Wednesday that all building permit applications must be submitted electronically through the county's online permitting software system. The department also clarified requirements for short-term rental licenses in unincorporated areas, emphasizing that these licenses must be renewed on an annual basis.
Building Permit Requirements
According to the Washington County Community Development Department, the electronic system provides automated updates to applicants. Once a permit application is received, the software automatically sends a link to the applicant so they can monitor the status of their submission.
For those seeking inspections, the county requires at least 24 hours of notice after work has been completed and is ready for review. Applicants must also provide the specific permit number when scheduling any inspection.
Construction Site Standards
The county maintains strict site management policies for all active construction zones. Washington County policy dictates that a 4-yard capacity dumpster, equipped with a lid or cover, must be present at the building site during every phase of the construction process.
To prevent safety hazards and overflow, the county requires that this dumpster be serviced on a regular basis to avoid overloading. Additionally, a sanitary facility, such as a porta-pottie, is mandatory at each construction site within Washington County. This facility must remain maintained at the site until construction reaches completion or until alternative facilities can be made available.
Short-Term Rental Regulations
For properties located in unincorporated areas of the county, a valid Washington County Short-Term Rental License is mandatory. The county defines a short-term rental as any property occupied, possessed, or used by an individual or entity for transient lodging where the term of occupancy is 29 consecutive calendar days or less, whether offered for direct compensation, indirect compensation, or other consideration.
This regulatory framework follows an ordinance adopted by Washington County in October 2021. Because these licenses are subject to annual renewal, property owners must allow a window of 10 to 14 business days for processing after a completed application has been submitted.
Licensing Procedures
The licensing process involves several administrative steps. Applicants must first apply for the Owner Occupied Primary Residential Exemption through the County Assessor’s Office before completing a Short-Term Rental Business License Application through Community Development.
Property owners are also responsible for ensuring their short-term rental meets current building codes. While a Health and Safety Check may be required by a county building inspector, this check may be waived if the dwelling is currently under construction and is adhering to all building permit processes and inspections.
Compliance and Documentation
The application for an existing dwelling carries a fee of $160.00, which includes the cost of the Health and Safety Check. To complete the application, owners must be prepared to provide a site plan of the property, a septic permit, and applicable photographs of the dwelling.
Furthermore, applicants must provide proof of insurance that includes a landlord endorsement specifically allowing for short-term rentals. Once licensed, owners are required to obtain the Good Neighbor Brochure and display it in a visible area within the rental, alongside the issued licenses and the contact information for the property manager or owner.
Departmental Assistance
The Community Development Department has indicated that staff members are available to assist with any questions or concerns regarding the licensing process. For both residential and commercial building permits, the county continues to direct all applicants to use the designated online portals for submission.
