Building Permits

The Sisters Community Development Department contracts with the Deschutes County Building Division for our building permit services.

As of May 2022, all building permits must be submitted online. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Question #1: How do I obtain a building permit?

Answer: Here is a reference sheet that breaks down the building permit application process step-by-step: How to Obtain a Building Permit 

 

Question #2: What do I need to include in my building permit submittal?

Answer:  Please include the Building Permit Review Form and Certificate of Occupancy Acknowledgement Form with your online permit application, in addition to any materials that are required by Deschutes County.

  • If you are submitting a permit for residential construction, you can use this checklist: Residential Building Permit Submittal Requirements. 
  • Note: If you are submitting a permit for commercial / industrial / multi-family construction, please check in with a City Planner first! Land use review may be required prior to building permit. 

 

Question #3: How much will a building permit cost?

Answer: The City calculates your building permit fees based on the impact your development will have on City infrastructure (i.e., water, sewer, transportation, and parks). You can use this reference sheet to get an estimate on what your City System Development Charges or "SDC fees" will be: City SDC fees Calculation Worksheet. All City and County fees will need to be paid before you can be issued a building permit.

  • Note: Deschutes County provides permit review services to enforce Building and Fire Codes. The County will have their own fees separate from the City's fees. Please reach out to a Deschutes County Permit Technician to request an estimated fee calculation for your project. 

 

Question #4: How long does it take to get a building permit?

Answer: As of July 2023, the estimated timeline to complete a residential building permit review process is 8-10 weeks, and longer for a commercial development permit.

 

Question #5: What do I need to do if I have trees on the development site that need to be removed?

Answer:  The City private tree code prioritizes the preservation of trees wherever possible, but trees may be eligible for removal if specific criteria are met. Any trees requested for removal shall be shown on the site plan submitted for building permit review. Please contact a City Planner if you have questions.

 

Question #6: How do I schedule the City's Final Site Inspection?

Answer: When your construction project is complete with all site improvements (landscaping, dark skies compliant lighting, addressing, paving, etc.), please contact the City of Sisters to schedule a site inspection. This needs to be completed prior to issuance of Certificate of Occupancy.

Please plan to schedule your site inspection at least 48 hours in advance of the visit. 

You can view our Certificate of Occupancy Checklist here.

 

If you have additional questions, please reach out to Emme Shoup, Associate Planner: eshoup@ci.sisters.or.us; 541-323-5216.

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