move2westlinn

Getting the “Thumbs Up” from West Linn

Jody McLeod May 1st, 2007

Approval Stamp Considering cutting down a tree? Do you and your neighbors want to hold a block party? Hold up there, partner! Before you do that, you might want to check with the proper authorities first. There are many items that require approval before they are allowed in West Linn. Here is a list of items requiring a permit or license:

Athletic Field Permit: A field permit is required for all agencies and non-profits located outside the West Linn city limits. West Linn youth sports associations will not be assessed fees. Here is an application form for a field permit.
Auctions : The City of West Linn requires a business license to be purchased prior to conducting an auction within West Linn city limits. Contact the Finance Department at City Hall or phone 503-656-4261 for further information
Alarms: All alarm owners must obtain an annual $10 permit (citizens 65 years and older may obtain a permit at no charge). Permits can be obtained at the West Linn Police Department or online. For more information you can call 503-655-6214.
Block Parties: A City permit is required for all block parties or community events that may affect the normal flow of traffic through either blocking of a city street or increasing traffic near the event site. Telephone 503-723-2544 or via e-mail at sshroyer@ci.west-linn.or.us.
Burning: Open burning is not allowed within the West Linn city limits.
Business: A person engaging in business within West Linn city limits must obtain a business license, which is renewed annually. This application requires the payment of a one-time $100 fee. Contact the Finance Department at 503-656-4261 or click here for an application form. Home Business Occupation Permits: A Home Occupation Permit is required to conduct business out of a private residence. Applications for permits and further information may be obtained by contacting the Planning Department at 503-656-4211.
Conditional Use Permits: Requests for a land use that is not permitted outright within a particular zone must be made to the Planning and Building Department at 503-656-4211.
Construction/Building: A building permit is required for new construction and/or remodeling within the city limits. Permits are issued and inspections are conducted by the West Linn Building Department for foundation, plumbing, and other structural work. Phone 503-656-4211 for further information. Construction in the public right-of-way requires a permit from the Engineering Department. Call 503-722-5500 for further information.
Inspections: to schedule an inspection, call the Building inspection line at 503-722-5509.
Demolition Permits: Permits may be obtained from the Planning and Building Department. Phone 503-656-4211 for further information.
Electrical Permits: The electrical permits are issued and inspections are conducted by Clackamas County. Call 503-655-8521.
Event Permit: For special events and areas that require barricades or clean-up such as a parade or fair. Here is an event permit application form.
Dog Licensing: If you live in West Linn and own a dog, you have until March 1st of each year to license your pet. After that, a penalty fee will be added to the basic dog license fee of $25 for a fertile dog. The licenses are available through the Police Department located at 22825 Willamette Dr., or phone 503-655-6214. Click here for an online form.
Fireworks: Fireworks are permitted within the city limits provided they conform to state laws regulating fireworks. Contact Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue at 503-612-7000
Liquor licenses: Liquor licenses may be issued by the State of Oregon following recommendation for approval by the City of West Linn. Contact the Oregon Liquor Control Commission at 1-800-452-6522.
Manufactured Dwelling Permit: application form
Marriage: Marriage licenses are obtained through Clackamas County in Oregon City. Phone 503-655-8659.
Natural Gas: Service is provided by Northwest Natural. Location of gas service lines necessary for construction purposes can be obtained by calling Utility One at 503-246-6699. Customer Service/Permits call 503-226-4211.
Parking: High School - Parking is restricted to permit holders in the residential area surrounding the high school during school hours. If you are a resident of the area, contract the West Linn Police Department at 503-655-6241 to obtain a permit. You may download the application here. Disabled Parking Permits - Issued by the State of Oregon, Department of Motor Vehicles. Phone 503-299-9999.
Signs: Garage Sale/Yard Sale Signs - West Linn Municipal Code 5.490 prohibits the placing of signs or advertisements in the street, in public right-of-way or on public property. This includes utility/light poles, street signs, medians, green ways and parks. A permit is required for temporary and permanent signs on private property. For more information call 503-655-6214 ext. 405. Here are applications for a temporary signs and permanent signs.
Sewer Service Connection: An application for a permit for connecting a service line to a structure may be obtained from the Building Department (503-656-4211).
Trees: City property - A written permit is required to remove, cut or destroy any street tree. Contact the Parks Department (503-557-4700). It is the duty of the owners of land abutting street trees to keep them properly trimmed and maintained. Heritage trees - Heritage trees are designated by the City Council following review of a nomination form submitted by a citizen and accepted by the property owner. Criteria for heritage tree designation are adopted by council resolution. Contact the Parks Department (503-557-4700) for further information. Private property - West Linn has adopted a tree protection ordinance. Call the City Arborist at 503-557-4700 for information before felling trees on private property. In addition, before cutting a tree down, you must get approval from nearby neighbors. Click here for a copy of the tree removal permit.