ePlans Frequently Asked Questions
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Source: ePlans Frequently Asked Questions ↗ Last modified: Sun, 19 Apr 2026 20:08:28 GMT
What is PDX ePlans?
PDX ePlans is the Bureau of Development Services’ (BDS) Electronic Plan Review and document management system. Using a web-based tool called ‘ProjectDox’, ePlans provides a convenient central hub for development project groups, including applicants and City reviewers, to communicate and complete the entire plan review process online. Staff at BDS and our partner bureaus can review the plans simultaneously on their computers. If customers need to make a correction to their plans, they can submit those corrections online for review, saving a trip to the Development Services Center.
Will PDX ePlans save me time?
Yes! Uploading plans, submitting revisions and downloading approved plans, using PDX ePlans saves time; you no longer have to drive to our permit center and stand in line to submit your plans or revisions.
When is PDX ePlans available?
Access to PDX ePlans are available online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
How do I get started with PDX ePlans?
The Bureau of Development Services has rolled out PDX ePlans (Electronic Plan Review) as an option for all Process Managed projects as of January 2019. If you are interested in submitting your Process Managed project through ePlans:
- Contact your BDS Process Manager directly
- Email BDSProcessManagement@portlandor…
Not submitting a Process Managed project?
Stay tuned! PDX ePlans is working to be rolled out to all commercial new construction permits. With questions, please contact the ePlans Training Team at TCIePlans@PortlandOregon.gov
Do I need special software to use PDX ePlans?
No, additional software is not needed. ePlans can be used across many internet browsers including Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox.
Logging into ProjectDox Guide ↗
What file types are allowed?
Our preferred file type is a searchable, vector PDF file, but you can upload over 150 file formats (including DWG, DGN and PDF). Please refer to our Applicant User Guide to learn more.
Are there any additional fees for using PDX ePlans?
There are no additional fees for submitting plans electronically through PDX ePlans. You pay the exact same permit fees that you would pay if you visited the Development Services Center to obtain your permits.
Is PDX ePlans 100% paperless? Do I still need to print paper copies?
During the submittal and review process, ePlans is entirely paperless. When your plans are approved, you will receive an email indicating that your plans are approved and after payment, they will be ready for download. You will be responsible for printing one set of plans for your job site for inspections.
Are my plans and files secure?
Yes, your plans and files are held on a secure server. Only you and the review staff have access to the plans, and all plans are read only and cannot be altered. Plan and document files that are uploaded into ePlans are published immediately into a "read-only" screen format that is used throughout the review and approval process. The plan files themselves, once published, are archived in order to ensure they are never altered or modified in any way. All markups and annotations applied to the plan file renditions occur on virtual layers in ePlans.