Commercial Permits and Inspections — Intro
← Commercial Permits and Inspections
Changing a commercial space > Research
Source: Changing a commercial space > Research ↗
Are you thinking about renting, leasing, or changing a commercial space for your business? You can schedule a free 15-minute virtual appointment with one of our experts to set your project up for success.
Before booking, read through these pages to find out what you need to know and what questions you should ask.
Book an appointment with an expert. ↗
Do you need a permit?
There are three common types of projects for business tenants who want to improve a commercial space:
- Change of Use
- This is when you’re changing the business activity of a commercial space in a way that impacts building code rules, like how many people can safely be inside. See below for more details.
- Change of Occupancy
- Some changes in the use of a commercial space will change the occupancy classification ↗ of the space. See below for more details.
- Commercial alteration
- These are sometimes referred to as “Tenant Improvements” or “T.I. permits.” You'll need a permit when you’re changing the interior space of a building, such as adding/removing walls, service counters, or platforms. Projects like this can include other permits, like plumbing and electrical permits.
One or more of these descriptions might apply to your project.
Can you build it on the property?
Start by understanding the zoning ↗ of the property. Some zoning rules may make your project more complex and costly.
If you can build it, find out where on your property you can build it. You'll have to follow zoning setbacks ↗ and rules about how much of the lot can be covered.
How to research your zoning:
- Go to PortlandMaps.com ↗.
- Enter your address.
- Navigate to Permits & Zoning.
- Click Zoning & Districts.
- There are four things to look for under Zoning & Districts:
- Base
- Overlay
- Historic District
- Historic Resource
The Base is where to find the setbacks and lot coverage requirements.
Does your property not have an address?
Sometimes a property doesn't have an address. In that case, you'll need the Property ID (also called the R Number) to identify the lot.
- Navigate to PortlandMaps.com ↗.
- Hover over your location and use the mouse wheel to zoom in. Alternatively, use the zoom icons (+, -). Drag to pan. On mobile, pinch and zoom to your location.
- Select a property.
- Under the Assessor tab, click the Assessor Detail button.
- Locate the Property ID. This is also referred to as the Tax Account Number.
Did you find a link or note next to Overlay, Historic District, or Historic Resource?
If yes, your project may need an additional review. The City has additional rules and guidelines for building in historic areas, so we can preserve the historic character of neighborhoods.
We recommend consulting with our zoning staff by calling 503-823-7300. Leave a message and include your questions, address, and details about your project.