Stop-Work Orders and Unpermitted Work in Oregon and Washington

A stop work order is posted at the site and takes effect right away. Unpermitted work found later, at a sale, an inspection or a complaint, leads to a notice with a correction period. Both end the same way: a permit for the work as it stands, with inspections.

The first three steps

1. Stop and read the notice. It names the violation and the deadline to respond. Seattle allows 2 business days to request a review; Portland allows 15 calendar days for an order issued in error.

2. Record what exists. Measure and photograph the work before anything else changes. The permit drawings show the existing unpermitted work as new work.

3. Apply for the permit. Expect an investigation fee on top of the permit fee, and expect to open finishes where the inspector needs to see framing, wiring or plumbing.

By jurisdiction

• Seattle (SDCI): special investigation fee from $292 to $14,600 by value of work; review request within 2 business days.

• Portland: $763 stop work order penalty; monthly enforcement fees from $394 after 30 days; unpaid fees become a city lien.

• Vancouver, WA: start with a $152 Field Evaluation Permit; the investigation fee equals the permit fees.

For other cities and counties, see the jurisdiction breakdowns.

Common questions

Can I keep working after a stop work order?

Only on work that fixes the violation, and only until the order says otherwise. Work resumes with the jurisdiction's written approval.

Can work done without a permit be permitted after the fact?

Yes. It goes through the same permit process as new work, with an investigation fee and inspections of the existing work.

Will I have to open walls?

Often, in part. Portland states that covered work must be exposed, with the inspector deciding how much. Seattle does not approve concealed framing without inspection.

Does unpermitted work affect a sale?

It can. Portland notes that a buyer, realtor or lender may require the work to be permitted before closing, and that insurers may refuse coverage.

How SASHKOV handles it

• Reads the notice and sets the response dates in business days.

• Records existing conditions and prepares the as-built drawings.

• Brings in the structural engineer or other licensed professional the work needs, under one contract.

• Prepares the permit application, answers corrections and coordinates inspections through issuance.