Bolthole Index

Union County, Oregon

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Union County, Oregon

71Index Score / 100
#1 of 36 in Oregon

Unincorporated Union County, Oregon requires building permits, and the City of La Grande/Union County Building Division administers the building program12. Union County Planning regulates zoning and development on unincorporated land3. Harney County administers septic work throughout Union County under authority delegated by Oregon DEQ45.

At a glance

Building permit
Required; the City of La Grande/Union County Building Division administers the program12
Zoning
Union County zoning applies in unincorporated areas3
Septic permit
Required for new, altered or repaired systems; Harney County Environmental Health administers the program64
RV living
Approved water and sewage are required; park and medical-hardship approvals do not authorize occupancy on every private parcel789
Tiny homes / minimum size
General tiny-home occupancy is unconfirmed; Medical Springs-Pondosa manufactured homes must be multi-sectional and at least 1,000 square feet10
Owner-builder
A limited exemption covers specified structural standards, but permits and inspections still apply11
Domestic well water right
Domestic use up to 15,000 gallons per day is exempt from a water-right permit, but landowners drilling their own well need a state permit and bond1213

Who to call

Planning & zoning

Union County Planning Department

Land-use planning, zoning and development in unincorporated Union County

541-963-1014

1001 Fourth Street, Suite C La Grande, OR 97850

Building permits

City of La Grande/Union County Building Division

Building permit applications for the City of La Grande and Union County

541-962-1360

lgbuilding@cityoflagrande.org

P.O. Box 670 - 1000 Adams Avenue La Grande, OR 97850

Septic permits

Harney County Environmental Health Program

Septic application intake, inquiries, record searches, fees, inspections and permit issuance for Union County

541-573-2761

permits@harneycountyor.gov

Online permits →

Floodplain permits

Union County Planning Department — Floodplain

Floodplain development permits and review in Union County

541-963-1014

1001 Fourth Street, Suite C La Grande, OR 97850

Roads & driveways

Union County Public Works Department

Road approach and construction applications affecting county roads

(541) 963-1016

P.O. Box 1103 La Grande, OR 97850

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 11, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Union County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Union County, Oregon?

Yes. Oregon requires a permit to construct, enlarge, alter, repair or move a residential building or structure, subject to listed exemptions and local land-use requirements1. The Oregon Residential Specialty Code applies to one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses14. A nonhabitable, one-story detached accessory structure can be exempt when it is smaller than 200 square feet and its average roof height is under 15 feet, but separate plumbing, electrical or mechanical permits may still apply115. The City of La Grande/Union County Building Division administers the county building program and issues building permits inside La Grande1617. Harney County Environmental Health handles septic permits throughout Union County, including city addresses4. Work requiring a permit must remain accessible for inspection until the building official approves it, and a new dwelling needs a certificate of occupancy before use unless the official issues a temporary certificate1819. Oregon's owner-builder exemption is limited to specified structural standards; permits and inspections still apply20. A claimed agricultural exemption requires Planning to verify a farm or forest operation and that the structure will be used for farming or forestry21.

Who issues Union County building permits, and how do you reach them?

The City of La Grande/Union County Building Division accepts Union County building permit applications at P.O. Box 670 - 1000 Adams Avenue, La Grande, OR 97850; call 541-962-1360 or email lgbuilding@cityoflagrande.org16. Start the land-use side with Union County Planning at 1001 Fourth Street, Suite C, La Grande, OR 97850, or 541-963-101422. Union County encourages an appointment for a pre-application consultation with Planning, while the building division handles building permits and inspections2316. We could not confirm current building-permit amounts; ask the Building Division for a project calculation separate from Planning’s land-use fees2416. The published land-use schedule lists $150 for a minor partition or boundary-line adjustment, $300 for a major partition, and $600 for a subdivision of up to 10 lots, with after-the-fact applications charged double25.

Does Union County, Oregon have zoning?

Union County zoning applies to unincorporated land; La Grande sets its own zoning inside city limits32627. Harney County Environmental Health remains the septic authority for both areas4. For new residential lots, the minimum is 1 acre in R-1 and 2 acres in R-2 where septic approval is available, and 10 acres in R-3 and R-428293031. R-1 and R-2 structures generally use 20-foot front, 10-foot rear and 5-foot side setbacks, with the highest dwelling floor limited to 35 feet32333435. R-3 and R-4 structures generally use 20-foot front and rear setbacks and 10-foot side setbacks; rural ADUs near forestland need a 30-foot property-line setback3637. An ADU may be reviewed in R-1 or R-2 on a lot of at least 2 acres with an existing house, but cannot be a vacation rental383940. Medical Springs-Pondosa manufactured homes must be multi-sectional and enclose at least 1,000 square feet; this is a district-specific rule10.

How do septic permits work in Union County?

Harney County administers onsite wastewater work throughout incorporated and unincorporated Union County under authority delegated by Oregon DEQ and under Union County oversight45. Harney County's service includes application intake, fee collection, inspections and permit issuance41; schedule inspections with Harney County Environmental Health, not Union County42. Where municipal sewer is unavailable, development must use an onsite wastewater treatment system, with suitable soils, water-table conditions and space for initial and replacement systems43. A septic construction permit is required to install, alter or repair a system; an undeveloped, unevaluated site needs a separate site evaluation, and new construction or alterations need an affirmative Land Use Compatibility Statement6. The installation permit is valid for 1 year; connecting an ADU or increasing flow into an existing system requires an authorization notice44. For work within city limits or an Urban Growth Boundary, the application may also require signed land-use compatibility and sewer-availability forms45. The municipality decides whether sewer connection is practical, legally available and supported by system capacity46. Applications can be emailed to permits@harneycountyor.gov or filed through Oregon ePermitting47. Only about 2.9% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so obtain the site evaluation before committing to a home location or system budget48.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Union County?

Oregon requires the owner's consent, adequate approved water and sewage facilities, and compliance with applicable sanitation, plumbing, electrical and sewer rules for camping-vehicle or manufactured-dwelling occupancy on private land7. Union County R-1 campgrounds, travel-trailer parks and motor-home parks require Planning Commission conditional-use approval; that provision does not authorize long-term RV living on an ordinary private parcel8. Union County's A-3 private-campground rule caps a camper's vehicle stay at 30 days in any consecutive six-month period49. Temporary camping on an ordinary private parcel remains unconfirmed; ask Union County Planning before staying on-site22. A medical-hardship approval may allow an RV or manufactured home beside an existing dwelling for the hardship's duration, with doctor certification950. General tiny-home occupancy remains unconfirmed; ask Planning how the proposed unit would be classified and which district standards apply22.

How do you build a home in Union County, step by step?

  1. Ask Union County Planning to confirm the zone, allowed dwelling, lot standards, access and flood status during a pre-application consultation2223.
  2. If sewer is unavailable, begin the septic site evaluation and permit process with Harney County Environmental Health514.
  3. Confirm legal road access. A lot created through partition or subdivision must abut an approved road; a state-highway approach requires written ODOT permission5253. County-road approach work requires Public Works approval54.
  4. If the site is in a Special Flood Hazard Area, obtain a floodplain development permit before development or fill55.
  5. Secure land-use approval, then submit construction plans and the building permit application to the City of La Grande/Union County Building Division216.
  6. Keep permitted work exposed for required building inspections and obtain the certificate of occupancy before moving into the new dwelling5619.

What should you check before buying land in Union County?

Domestic well use up to 15,000 gallons per day is exempt from Oregon's water-right permit requirement, but a landowner personally constructing or altering a water-supply well must obtain the state permit and bond before work begins1257. In unincorporated Union County, Special Flood Hazard Area development needs a floodplain development permit; review may require a flood study or elevation certificates depending on the site55. Union County cannot issue a building permit or septic Land Use Compatibility Statement for a structure in a partition or subdivision whose plat has not been approved or recorded, so verify division history before buying58. In the A-1 Exclusive Farm Use zone, short-term rentals may be allowed only as a home occupation through conditional-use review, accessory and subordinate to the residence59. County transient-lodging registration and the 3% tax for stays of 30 days or less do not establish zoning approval, and ADUs cannot be vacation rentals6040.

Watch-outs

  • Only about 2.9% of Union County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so make septic feasibility a purchase contingency rather than a post-closing task48.
  • Any development, including fill, in a Special Flood Hazard Area in unincorporated Union County requires a floodplain development permit55.
  • General tiny-home occupancy, countywide minimum dwelling size and lot-coverage limits remain unconfirmed; ask Union County Planning about the parcel’s zone and proposed structure22.

Sources

  1. About Oregon residential building permits, quoted and re-checked
  2. Land Use Applications - Union County, quoted and re-checked
  3. Planning Department - Union County, quoted and re-checked
  4. Union County Ordinance 2025-02 Onsite Wastewater, quoted and re-checked
  5. Union County Ordinance 2025-02 Onsite Wastewater, quoted and re-checked
  6. Onsite Septic Program for Union County, quoted and re-checked
  7. Oregon Revised Statutes, ORS 446.125 Occupancy on private land (Oregon statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  8. Article 6.00 R-1 Rural Center Zone, quoted and re-checked
  9. Article 2.00 A-1 Exclusive Farm Use Zone, quoted and re-checked
  10. Article 51.00 - Medical Springs-Pondosa Rural Cluster Development Zone, Section 51.06 - Development Standards, quoted and re-checked
  11. oregon.gov, quoted and re-checked
  12. Water Rights FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  13. Landowner Constructed Wells, quoted and re-checked
  14. Residential Structures Code Program, quoted and re-checked
  15. 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code, Chapter 1, quoted and re-checked
  16. City of La Grande/Union County Building Division (cityoflagrande.org)
  17. La Grande: Building Division | La Grande, OR (Union County), quoted and re-checked
  18. Union County Ordinance 2020-02: Building Code Adoptions, quoted and re-checked
  19. 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code - Chapter 1, quoted and re-checked
  20. Oregon Revised Statutes, ORS 455.320 (Oregon statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  21. Ag Exemption November-2025, quoted and re-checked
  22. Union County Planning Department (unioncountyor.gov)
  23. Land Use Applications - Union County, quoted and re-checked
  24. Land Use Applications - Union County, quoted and re-checked
  25. Article 33.00: Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  26. Article 1.00 Introductory Provisions and Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  27. La Grande: Sec. 103-28. Low Density Residential (R-1) (Union County), quoted and re-checked
  28. Article 6.00 R-1 Rural Center Zone, quoted and re-checked
  29. Article 7 R-2 Rural Residential Zone, quoted and re-checked
  30. Article 8 R-3 Farm Residential Zone, quoted and re-checked
  31. Article 9.00 R-4 Forest Residential Zone, quoted and re-checked
  32. Article 6.00 R-1 Rural Center Zone, quoted and re-checked
  33. Article 7 R-2 Rural Residential Zone, quoted and re-checked
  34. Article 6.00 R-1 Rural Center Zone, quoted and re-checked
  35. Article 7 R-2 Rural Residential Zone, quoted and re-checked
  36. Article 8 R-3 Farm Residential Zone, quoted and re-checked
  37. Article 9.00 R-4 Forest Residential Zone, quoted and re-checked
  38. Article 6.00 R-1 Rural Center Zone, quoted and re-checked
  39. Article 7.00 R-2 Rural Residential Use Zone, quoted and re-checked
  40. Article 8.00 R-3 Farm Residential Zone - Union County, quoted and re-checked
  41. Onsite Septic Program for Union County, quoted and re-checked
  42. Onsite Septic Program for Union County, quoted and re-checked
  43. Housing and Onsite Wastewater Management, quoted and re-checked
  44. Residential Septic Permitting, quoted and re-checked
  45. Onsite Sanitation, quoted and re-checked
  46. Onsite Wastewater (Septic) Rules Update, quoted and re-checked
  47. Harney County Environmental Health Program (unioncountyor.gov)
  48. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  49. Article 3.00 Agriculture-Grazing Zone, quoted and re-checked
  50. Medical Hardship Information, quoted and re-checked
  51. Housing and Onsite Wastewater Management, quoted and re-checked
  52. Article 25.00 Land Division Regulations - Union County, quoted and re-checked
  53. Access Management (Oregon statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  54. Union County Public Works Department (unioncountyor.gov)
  55. Flood Plain Information - Union County, quoted and re-checked
  56. 2026 Oregon Residential Specialty Code, Chapter 1, quoted and re-checked
  57. Landowner Constructed Wells, quoted and re-checked
  58. Article 25.00 Land Division Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  59. Livermore Conditional Use Home Occupation - Union County, quoted and re-checked
  60. Transient Room Tax, quoted and re-checked

Written October 11, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Union County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleUnion CountyUmatilla CountyWallowa CountyBaker CountyMorrow CountyGrant CountyGilliam County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsHarney County Onsite ProgramUmatilla CountyHarney County Env. HealthOR DEQ Onsite Wastewater ProgramUCo HealthCounty Planning Dept.Umatilla County Public Health

County locator

Union County in Oregon

71
County map
Union County highlighted among the Oregon counties · colored by Index score

How Union County scores

Seclusion77100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency57100% ev.
Admin Boringness42100% ev.
Durability56100% ev.
Property Autonomy72100% ev.
Carry Cost74100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$340kTypical home
0.9%Property tax
$2,830Land / acre
28.8"Annual rain
11.7% of yrsSevere drought
2.7 / yr (+2.5)Mid-century 100°F days
26 daysMid-century dry spell
1.46" (+7.9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.23×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,123Home insurance / yr
4.5% / yrInsurance growth
1.21%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
19,402People within 30 min
246,387People within 2 hr
6,637Radius comparison (15 mi)
12.7People / sq mi
48.1%Federal land
36.2%Land at 15% slope or less
2.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
33,798 acWorkable land screen
61.4%Wooded land
40.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
44.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Union County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Cove · Elgin · Imbler · Island City · North Powder · Town of Summerville · Union

Answers from the rulebook for Union County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Union County rules

  • InspectionsRequired

    Buildings and structures within Union County for which a building permit is required, including work subject to the Oregon Specialty Codes.

    • Union County Ordinance 2020-02 applies to all buildings and structures within the jurisdiction of Union County unless specifically exempted.
    • Construction or work for which a permit is required must remain accessible and exposed for inspection until approved.
    • The permit holder or the permit holder’s duly authorized agent must notify the building official when work is ready for inspection, and the permit holder must provide access to and means for inspection.
    • Work may not proceed beyond each successive inspection point without the building official’s approval; noncompliant portions must be corrected and may not be covered or concealed until authorized.
    • Union County specifically requires permits for demolition; retaining walls greater than 4 feet in height or supporting a surcharge; certain unattached telecommunications and broadcast towers; signs not attached to or supported by a regulated building; and flagpoles and light poles exceeding 25 feet.
    • For occupied premises, the building official must present credentials and request entry; for unoccupied premises, the official must first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or person in charge and request entry. If entry is refused or the owner or representative cannot be reached, the official may use remedies under the Union County Enforcement Ordinance.
    • County permit fees may be set by Board of Commissioners resolution; if no resolution is in effect, the maximum fee allowed by Oregon is charged.
    • The ordinance becomes effective upon approval by the Board of Commissioners.

    retaining wall permit threshold: > 4 feet (or supporting a surcharge) · flagpole or light pole permit threshold: > 25 feet

    “R109.1 General. Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the building official and such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes until approved.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land use planning, zoning, and development in unincorporated Union County.

    • The county planning page limits the Planning Department's zoning role to unincorporated Union County.
    • The county zoning ordinance establishes zones for the unincorporated area of Union County.
    • Incorporated municipalities may apply their own land-use regulations.
    “For the purpose of this ordinance, the following zones are hereby established for the unincorporated area of Union County.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County-administered zoning and land-use regulation in unincorporated Union County.

    • All persons must locate, construct, repair, alter, replace, or use a building or other structure, transfer land, or establish a use only as the ordinance permits.
    • The ordinance identifies zoning classifications and boundaries for the unincorporated area.
    • The ordinance includes subsequent amendments and adopted zoning maps.
    “All persons shall locate, construct, repair, alter, replace, or use a building or other structure, or transfer land or establish a use only as this ordinance permits. [...] For the purpose of this ordinance, the following zones are hereby established for the unincorporated area of Union County.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    The zoning classifications and overlay designations established by Union County for the unincorporated area.

    • The ordinance states that zone locations and boundaries are shown on the Union County Plan and Zoning Maps dated November 2, 1983 and subsequent amendments.
    • The Flood Plain Overlay Zone is identified on the Union County Zoning Maps, with Federal Flood Insurance Rate Maps and Flood Boundary and Floodway Maps adopted as supplements.
    • A signed copy of the zoning maps and subsequent amendments is maintained in the County Clerk's office.
    • The source does not establish that Ordinance 2026-01 was adopted.

    zone classifications: A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, C-1, C-2, I-1, I-2, PA, SM, AI-1 · overlay designations: AP, FP, UG-1, UG-2

    “For the purpose of this ordinance, the following zones are hereby established for the unincorporated area of Union County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Published zoning classifications and overlay designations for the unincorporated area of Union County.
      “For the purpose of this ordinance, the following zones are hereby established for the unincorporated area of Union County.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Residential development in the Medical Springs-Pondosa Rural Cluster Development Zone, specifically a manufactured home used for residential development.

    • Residential development is limited to wood frame construction or a manufactured home meeting the listed standards.
    • The manufactured home must be multi-sectional.
    • The manufactured home must enclose not less than 1,000 square feet.
    • Additional district standards apply, including foundation, roof, exterior siding and roofing, thermal-envelope certification, and garage or carport requirements.
    • This source establishes a district-specific minimum for manufactured homes; it does not establish a countywide minimum dwelling size for every dwelling type or district.

    minimum enclosed space for manufactured home: >= 1000 square feet

    “Residential development is limited to wood frame construction or a manufactured home meeting the following standards: A. The manufactured home shall be multi-sectional and enclose a space of not less than 1,000 square feet.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    New lots in the R-1 Rural Center Zone in unincorporated Union County.

    • The minimum is one acre where Oregon Department of Environmental Quality subsurface sewage disposal approval can be obtained.
    • Where public services such as public access, public water supply, or public sewer already exist, or are needed to avoid an identified public health hazard, the minimum is 20,000 square feet.

    minimum lot size: 1 acre (Where DEQ subsurface sewage disposal approval can be obtained.) · minimum lot size: 20000 square feet (Where specified public services exist or are needed to avoid an identified public health hazard.)

    “The lot size in the R-1 Zone shall be one acre where Oregon Department of Environmental Quality subsurface sewage disposal approval can be obtained; or where public services such as public access, and public water supply or public sewer already exist or are needed to avoid an identified public health hazard the minimum lot size shall be 20,000 square feet.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — New lots in the R-2 Rural Residential Zone in unincorporated Union County.
      “The lot size in the R-2 Zone shall be two acres where Oregon Department of Environmental Quality subsurface sewage disposal approval can be obtained; or where public services such as public access, and public water supply or public sewer already exist or are needed to avoid an identified public health hazard.”
    • Specified — New lots or parcels in the R-3 Farm Residential Zone in unincorporated Union County.
      “The minimum lot size for new lots or parcels in the R-3 Zone shall be ten acres.”
    • Specified — New lots or parcels in the R-4 Forest Residential Zone in unincorporated Union County.
      “The minimum lot size for new lots or parcels in the R-4 Zone shall be ten acres.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    All structures in the R-4 Forest Residential Zone in unincorporated Union County.

    • Rural ADUs must be at least 30 feet from all property lines where adjacent parcels are forested or the subject property is within one-quarter mile of forestland.
    • All structures are subject to Article 20.10 site plan requirements.

    front-yard setback: >= 20 feet · rear-yard setback: >= 20 feet · side-yard setback: >= 10 feet · rural ADU setback: >= 30 feet (Where adjacent parcels are forested or the subject property is within one-quarter mile of forestland.)

    “All structures shall be set back from property lines a minimum of 20-feet front and rear yards and 10-feet side yards. Rural ADUs shall be set back a minimum of 30 feet from all property lines where adjacent parcels are forested or the subject property is within 1/4 mile of forestland.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — All structures in the R-1 Rural Center Zone in unincorporated Union County.
      “All Structures shall be set back from property lines a minimum of 20-feet front yard, 10-feet back yard, and 5-feet side yards, except that on a corner lot the side yard on the street side shall be a minimum of 20-feet.”
    • Specified — All structures in the R-2 Rural Residential Zone in unincorporated Union County.
      “All Structures shall be set back from property lines a minimum of 20-feet front yard, 10-feet back yard, and 5-feet side yards, except that on a corner lot the side yard on the street side shall be a minimum of 20-feet.”
    • Specified — All structures in the R-3 Farm Residential Zone in unincorporated Union County.
      “All structures shall be set back from property lines a minimum of 20-feet front and rear yards and 10-feet side yards. Rural ADUs shall be set back a minimum of 30 feet from all property lines where adjacent parcels are forested or the subject property is within ¼ mile of forestland.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Permanently or temporarily occupied dwellings in the R-1 Rural Center Zone in unincorporated Union County.

    highest floor height: <= 35 feet

    “The highest floor of a permanently or temporarily occupied dwelling shall not exceed 35 feet.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Permanently or temporarily occupied dwellings in the R-2 Rural Residential Zone in unincorporated Union County.
      “The highest floor of a permanently or temporarily occupied dwelling shall not exceed 35 feet.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Campgrounds, travel-trailer parks, and motor-home parks in Union County R-1 Rural Center Zones; this provision does not establish unrestricted individual long-term RV occupancy on private land.

    • Conditional use approval by the Planning Commission is required.
    • Applicable Article 21.00 conditional-use standards, Article 20.10 site-plan requirements, and Article 20.11 off-street parking and loading requirements apply.
    “6. Campground or travel trailer or motor home park.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — A recreational vehicle used as a temporary hardship dwelling on an existing dwelling's property in Union County's A-1 Exclusive Farm Use Zone.
      “One manufactured dwelling, or recreational vehicle, or the temporary residential use of an existing building may be allowed in conjunction with an existing dwelling”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary camping by campers or camper vehicles in private campgrounds in Union County agricultural-grazing and agricultural-forest zones.

    • Private campground approval and applicable county conditional-use requirements apply.
    • The three-mile urban-growth-boundary restriction and lake/reservoir exception apply.
    • The 30-day limit applies during any consecutive six-month period.
    • Campsites may use tents, travel trailers, yurts, or recreational vehicles.
    • Individual campsites generally may not have separate sewer, water, or electric hookups, except electrical service may be provided to qualifying yurts.

    maximum temporary camping duration: <= 30 days during any consecutive six-month period

    “camper's vehicle shall not exceed a total of 30 days during any consecutive six-month period. [...] Allowed uses include tent, travel trailer or recreational vehicle”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    One manufactured dwelling in an R-2 Rural Residential Zone, when used with an existing dwelling as a temporary hardship dwelling.

    • County review under Article 24.03 and applicable conditional-use, site-plan, and parking standards is required.
    • The manufactured dwelling must use the existing dwelling's subsurface sewage disposal system if that system is adequate for the additional dwelling.
    • The permit must be reviewed every two years.
    • When the hardship ends, the temporary dwelling must be removed.
    • Hardship means a medical hardship or hardship for care of an aged or infirmed person or persons.
    • Each application must include the specified primary-care-provider letter and physician certificate; biannual review requires a new physician certificate submitted to the County Planning Department.

    permit review interval: 2 years

    “One manufactured dwelling in conjunction with an existing dwelling as a temporary use for the term of a hardship [...]”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — One manufactured dwelling used as a temporary hardship dwelling on a predominantly forest land lot or parcel in the A-3 Agriculture Forest Use Zone.
      “A temporary hardship dwelling on a predominantly forest land lot or parcel is subject to the following:”
    • Limited — Temporary use of a manufactured home as a medical-hardship dwelling in unincorporated Union County.
      “You can convert an existing structure on your property into a dwelling, or use a Recreational Vehicle or Manufactured Home.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    One accessory dwelling unit in Union County's R-1 Rural Center Zone.

    • The ADU requires County review under Article 24.03 Quasi-Judicial land use decision, applicable Article 21.00 Conditional Uses standards, Section 20.10 Site Plan Requirements, and Section 20.11 Off Street Parking and Loading requirements.
    • The lot or parcel must be two acres or greater.
    • One single-family dwelling must be sited on the lot or parcel and must not be subject to a nuisance order or pending action under ORS 105.550 to 105.600.
    • Wildland-urban interface parcels must comply with applicable State Fire Marshal and local defensible-space requirements.
    • Where no statewide wildfire-risk map applies, the ADU must comply with applicable local defensible-space requirements and have adequate access for firefighting equipment, safe evacuation, and staged evacuation areas.
    • A scaled site plan must identify property lines, existing and proposed dwellings, distances between structures and property lines, and proposed ADU square footage.
    • After approval, the ADU cannot be more than 100 feet from the existing dwelling, is limited to 900 square feet of useable floor space, must comply with state water-supply, sanitation, and wastewater laws, cannot be used for vacation-rental occupancy, and the lot or parcel cannot be subdivided or partitioned so the existing dwelling and ADU are on different parcels.
    • The lot or parcel must be served by a fire protection service provider with personnel meeting ORS 181A.410 training or certification requirements.
    • The county guidance states only one ADU per parcel, additional restrictions may be imposed by the Planning Commission or Board of Commissioners, and ADUs require a public hearing and a $300 application fee.

    minimum lot or parcel size: >= 2 acres · maximum distance from existing dwelling: <= 100 feet · maximum usable floor space: <= 900 square feet · ADUs per parcel: 1 ADU · application fee: 300 USD

    “The following uses may be established in an R-1 Zone subject to County review [...] One accessory dwelling unit (ADU).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — One accessory dwelling unit in the R-2 Rural Residential Use Zone.
      “14. One accessory dwelling unit (ADU). a. Subject to the following: A. The lot or parcel is two (2) acres or greater in size; B. One single-family dwelling is sited on the lot or parcel which is not subject to an order declaring it a nuisance or subject to any pending action under ORS 105.550 to 105.600; C. If the lot or parcel is in an area identified on a statewide map of wildfire risk described in ORS 477.490 as within the wildland-urban interface, the lot or parcel and accessory dwelling unit will comply with any applicable minimum defensible space requirements for wildfire risk reduction established by the State Fire Marshal under ORS 476.392 and any applicable local requirements for defensible space established by a local government pursuant to ORS 476.392; D. If no statewide map of wildfire risk has been adopted or if the lot or parcel is not in an area identified on a statewide map of wildfire risk described in ORS 477.490 as within the wildland-urban interface, the accessory dwelling unit will comply with the provisions of any applicable local requirements for defensible space established by a local government pursuant to ORS 476.392 and the accessory dwelling unit will have adequate access for firefighting equipment, safe evacuation and staged evacuation areas; and E. A site plan drawn to scale will be submitted that identifies the property lines of the subject property, the location of the existing dwelling, the location of the proposed accessory dwelling unit, the distance between the existing dwelling and the proposed accessory dwelling unit, the distance from the proposed accessory dwelling unit to all property lines and the square footage of the proposed accessory dwelling unit.”
  • Who permits septicMixed

    Onsite wastewater treatment systems throughout incorporated and unincorporated Union County.

    • DEQ delegated its duties within Union County to Harney County under a 2025 intergovernmental agreement.
    • Harney County administers and enforces the program under the supervision of the Union County Board of Commissioners.
    • Union County Ordinance 2025-02 adopts Oregon onsite wastewater rules, including construction, alteration, repair, operation, and maintenance requirements.
    “DEQ has delegated to Harney County its authority to perform DEQ's duties under ORS 454.635, 454.655, 454.665, and 454.755 within Union County. Accordingly, this ordinance shall have force and effect throughout the entirety of incorporated and unincorporated Union County.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater treatment systems throughout incorporated and unincorporated Union County.
      “DEQ has delegated to Harney County its authority to perform DEQ's duties under ORS 454.635, 454.655, 454.665, and 454.755 within Union County.”
    • Local — Harney County's delegated onsite sanitation administration for properties in Union County.
      “As of June 1, 2025, Harney County will be providing Onsite Septic Service for Union County. This service includes all things septic: application intake, inquiries, record retention, records search, consults, fee collection, inspections, permit issuances, etc.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New, altered, or repaired onsite wastewater treatment systems, and applicable authorization-to-connect projects, throughout incorporated and unincorporated Union County.

    • Harney County provides onsite septic service for Union County as of June 1, 2025, including inspections and permit issuances.
    • The Union County ordinance applies throughout the entirety of incorporated and unincorporated Union County.
    • Oregon onsite wastewater rules regulate construction, alteration, repair, operation, and maintenance.
    • A site evaluation is required for an undeveloped site that has never been evaluated for septic approval and may be required for replacement at a different location.
    • An affirmative Land Use Compatibility Statement is required before issuance of a construction permit for new construction and alterations of existing septic systems.
    • Construction permits are valid for up to one year.
    • An authorization notice is required for a proposal to connect to, change the use of, increase sewage flow into, or connect an accessory dwelling unit to an existing septic system; the authorization notice is valid for one year.

    service start date: 2025-06-01 · construction permit validity: <= 1 year · authorization notice validity: 1 year

    “Septic permits are required to install a new septic system, alter an existing septic system, or repair an existing septic system.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New, altered, or repaired septic systems, and authorization to connect to or change use of an existing septic system, in Union County.
      “Septic permits are required to install a new septic system, alter an existing septic system, or repair an existing septic system.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Onsite septic inspection services and inspection scheduling for Union County systems administered by Harney County.

    • Harney County's Union County service includes inspections.
    • The official Union County page instructs applicants to schedule an inspection through Harney County Environmental Health.
    • The reviewed sources do not establish a universal periodic inspection interval for every Union County septic system.
    “To schedule an onsite inspection please call 541-573-2761. Harney County provides Onsite Sanitation services to Baker, Grant, Harney, Union, Wallowa and Wheeler Counties.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Sewer-availability documentation associated with new septic construction or septic repairs in Union County when the project is within city limits or an Urban Growth Boundary.

    • The source states this condition is effective January 1, 2026.
    • For new construction or repairs within city limits or the Urban Growth Boundary, both a signed Land Use Compatibility Statement and the Sewer Availability Form are required.
    • This source establishes a documentation requirement for specified septic projects; it does not establish that connection to a municipal sewer is universally required or feasible.

    effective date: 2026-01-01 · project geography: within city limits or Urban Growth Boundary (applies to new construction or repairs)

    “repairs that are within city limits or the Urban Growth Boundary, Land Use Compatibility Statements must be signed as well as the Sewer Availability Form.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agricultural, forestry-operation, equine, and qualifying dog-training buildings in Union County, subject to the county's application, qualification, land-use, and building-system requirements.

    • An agricultural exemption application, site plan, and structural sketches showing interior rooms and uses, exterior elevations, dimensions, openings, and levels are required.
    • A farm or forest assessment by the Assessor/Tax Collector's office is required; before an agricultural exempt permit can be issued, the Planning Department must determine whether the property is located on a farm or forest property.
    • Only structures located on a parcel with a farm or forest operation qualify, and only structures used for farm or forestry are exempt.
    • A farm is defined by the county as a facility, including land, buildings, watercourses, and appurtenances, used in commercial production of crops, nursery stock, livestock, poultry, livestock products, poultry products, vermiculture products, or propagation and raising of nursery stock; the county states this is land used primarily to obtain a profit through farming.
    • A forest operation is commercial activity relating to growing or harvesting forest tree species; an agricultural building permitted in relation to a forest operation cannot be converted to another use.
    • An equine or dog-training exemption may be issued only when the facility is located on a farm; the county defines qualifying equine and dog-training facilities by their listed uses.
    • The exemption cannot be issued for a dwelling, residential accessory structure such as a garage or shop, a structure with 10 or more people present at one time except a structure used for growing plants, a structure regulated by the State Fire Marshal under ORS Chapter 476, a structure used by the public, or a structure in a floodplain.
    • The county form states that a building permit is required for each proposed electrical, mechanical, boiler, plumbing, and septic system; the information sheet separately states that the exemption applies only to the building permit and does not apply to electrical, plumbing, or mechanical installations.
    • If the agricultural building later changes occupancy, a standard building permit and inspections must be obtained. Only structures approved for farm use may be converted to another use; a forestry-operation building cannot be converted.
    • The county's planning page states that the City of La Grande Building Division handles all building permits and inspections; incorporated cities may regulate agricultural buildings and equine facilities within their boundaries.
    “Before an agricultural exempt permit can be issued, the Planning Department must first determine if the property is located on a farm or forest property. Only structures located on a parcel that has a farm or forest operation qualify for the exemption. Only structures used for farm or forestry are exempt.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Partitions and subdivisions in the unincorporated portion of Union County.

    • Partition and subdivision plats, property boundary changes, and streets or ways used to create lots or parcels require approval before sale.
    • Tentative plans and final documents must be submitted under the ordinance and ORS Chapters 92 and 215.
    • Land in the unincorporated area and in A-1, A-2, A-3, or A-4 EFU zones may not be subdivided into four or more lots from a single parcel or lot within one calendar year.
    • A parcel or lot created by partition or subdivision cannot be submitted for recording unless approved as required by the ordinance and Transportation System Plan.
    • A building permit or Land Use Compatibility Statement for subsurface sewage disposal cannot be issued for a structure in a partition or subdivision whose plat has not been approved or recorded.
    • Final approval has additional water/sewer and design requirements under Article 25.

    EFU subdivision limit: < 4 lots from a single parcel or lot within one calendar year (Applies to A-1, A-2, A-3, and A-4 EFU zones.)

    “No person shall partition or subdivide land in the unincorporated portion of Union County except as provided in this Ordinance and the Transportation System Plan.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Partitioning or subdividing land, creating lots or parcels, changing property boundary lines, and creating streets or ways for lots or parcels in unincorporated Union County.
      “No person shall partition or subdivide land in the unincorporated portion of Union County except as provided in this Ordinance and the Transportation System Plan.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Parcels and lots created through partition or subdivision in unincorporated Union County, including access connections and driveways serving proposed development.

    • Every parcel or lot must abut and have adequate access to an approved public or private road.
    • Ordinary minimum road frontage is 100 feet.
    • A parcel or lot on the radius of a curved street or facing the circular end of a cul-de-sac may have frontage of not less than 30 feet.
    • Flag parcels and lots with less than 100 feet of frontage are not permitted.
    • Access across ditches and streams must accommodate a gross vehicle weight of 50,000 pounds and use a standard method approved by the County Planning Department.
    • For new development adjacent to the state highway system, the developer or owner must notify and coordinate with Union County and the ODOT District Manager before applying.
    • Proposed subdivisions fronting the state highway system must share access points; if access from a local road is possible, access onto the state highway is not allowed.
    • A maximum of two accesses may be allowed regardless of the number of lots or businesses served.

    minimum road frontage: >= 100 feet (30 feet for a parcel or lot on the radius of a curved street or facing the circular end of a cul-de-sac) · minimum one-way driveway width: >= 10 feet (Driveway design guideline) · minimum two-way driveway lane width: >= 10 feet (Maximum of four lanes allowed) · private road easement width: >= 30 feet (A driveway easement to one parcel or lot may be 20 feet) · maximum state-highway accesses: <= 2 accesses (Regardless of the number of lots or businesses served)

    “Every parcel and lot shall abut and have adequate access to an approved public or private road”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Development access and driveways in the Baum Industrial Park, Union County Heavy Industrial I-2 Zone.
      “All accesses shall be at least 100 feet apart on each site, measuring from the center line of the access.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Any development, including fill or other man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, in a Special Flood Hazard Area within Union County.

    • Development in the SFHA requires additional review and construction to higher standards.
    • Possible requirements include elevating the lowest floor two feet above the nearest adjacent ground elevation, a flood study where base flood elevation data is unavailable, hydrostatic-force venting, anchoring, and elevation certificates before foundation pouring and at completion.
    • Requirements vary by flood zone, proposed work, and additional property factors.
    • Regulations are in Article 17 of the Union County Zoning, Partition, and Subdivision Ordinance.

    lowest-floor elevation above nearest adjacent ground: >= 2 feet

    “Development in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) requires additional review and construction of higher standards. In Union County, any development (any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate) in the SFHA, including fill, requires a floodplain development permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Any development, including fill or other man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, in a Special Flood Hazard Area within Union County.
      “In Union County, any development (any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate) in the SFHA, including fill, requires a floodplain development permit.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rental use in the Union County A-1 Exclusive Farm Use zone.

    • Short-term rental is not allowed as a separate use through ministerial, administrative, or quasi-judicial review in the A-1 Exclusive Farm Use zone.
    • It may be allowed only as a home occupation, subject to UCZPSO Article 2, Section 2.05, Article 21 conditional-use standards, and Article 24.03 quasi-judicial review.
    • The use must be accessory, incidental, and subordinate to the primary residential use.
    • The home occupation must be operated by a resident or resident's employee, employ no more than one full- or part-time person, and occupy no more than 49% of the dwelling or meet the alternative building limitation.
    • Off-street parking is required on the subject parcel.
    • A documented approval restricted one use to 45 days or less per guest, a 788-square-foot basement area, no cooking appliances, the approved guest count, no noise disturbance, payment of county transient tax, and no transfer with the land.

    maximum stay per guest in documented approval: <= 45 days · maximum rental area in documented approval: 788 square feet (basement area only) · maximum employees: <= 1 person (full-time or part-time at any given time) · maximum dwelling area used: <= 49 percent

    “There is no short-term rental use allowed as a separate use through ministerial, administrative, or quasi-judicial review in the Exclusive Farm Use zone. The only manner that this use can be allowed in the Exclusive Farm Use zone is through a home occupation and the only intensity limits that apply to this use are those listed in UCZPSO Article 2, Section .05.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Prohibited — Vacation-rental or short-term-rental occupancy of an accessory dwelling unit approved under the Union County R-3 Farm Residential Zone standards.
      “The accessory dwelling unit cannot be utilized for vacation rental occupancy”
    • Allowed (with conditions) — The approved short-term-rental home occupation at 63698 Owsley Canyon Road, La Grande, identified in Union County Planning Commission Application No. 2026-0001.
      “Your conditional use for a short-term rental home occupation has been approved.”
    • Limited — Temporary or short-term lodging and transient rental activity in Union County.
      “Union County collects a 3% Transient Room Tax on all room rents that are intended or designed for transient occupancy for thirty (30) days or less.”
    • Limited — Temporary or short-term lodging, including houses, apartments, duplexes, cabins, condominiums, RV parking spaces, and other dwelling units used for temporary stays in Union County.
      “Union County collects a 3% Transient Room Tax on all room rents that are intended or designed for transient occupancy for thirty (30) days or less. [...] New businesses filing for the first time, should register for the Transient Lodging Tax through the Registration form and submit to the Union County Administrative Office. Once the establishment is registered the business owner will receive a Certificate of Authority recognizing the establishment.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Permits issued by Union County under the county building-code ordinance.

    • Permit fees may be set by resolution of the Board of Commissioners.
    • If no resolution is in effect, the maximum fee allowed by the State of Oregon is charged.
    • The county planning page states that the City of La Grande Building Division handles all building permits and inspections; incorporated-area administration may therefore differ.

    fee-setting method: County resolution or, absent an effective resolution, the maximum fee allowed by Oregon

    “Fees for permits issued by the County may be set by Resolution of the Board of Commissioners; or in the case no Resolution is in effect, then the maximum fee allowed by the State of Oregon shall be charged.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published — Union County land-use applications and appeals under the county zoning, partition, and subdivision process.
      “Minor Partition $150 Major Partition $300 Boundary Line Adjustment $150 Subdivision (1) Up to 10 lots $600 (2) For each additional lot $50 After-the-fact application double”
    • Published (with conditions) — Union County land-use application and appeal fees for unincorporated county applications.
      “For the purpose of partially defraying the expense involved in investigating matters connected with applications and appeals and the action taken thereon, each activity initiated by property owners or contract purchasers shall be accompanied by a fee in accordance with the following Fee Schedule.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Land-use applications and building permits for unincorporated Union County.

    • The Union County Planning Department recommends a no-charge pre-application consultation to identify the correct application and requirements.
    • The City of La Grande Building Division handles all building permits and inspections for the county program.
    • Building construction may begin only after a permit is issued.
    • Permit technicians assist with application, plan review, and permit issuance; certified inspection staff provide inspections after issuance.
    “The application process can be confusing, and it may not be obvious what application you need or what is required to complete an application. You are encouraged to make an appointment with the Planning Department to complete a pre-application consultation. At no charge, planning staff can help you understand how to complete the correct application. The City of La Grande Building Division handles all building permits and inspections.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Land-use applications and building permits for development in unincorporated Union County.
      “You are encouraged to make an appointment with the Planning Department to complete a pre-application consultation.”

Oregon rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, movement, or occupancy change of buildings or structures regulated by the Oregon Residential Specialty Code, including applicable residential construction in Union County.

    • The owner or authorized agent must apply to the building official and obtain the required permit before covered work is performed.
    • The ORSC does not require a permit for nonhabitable one-story detached accessory structures when the building area does not exceed 200 square feet and the height does not exceed 15 feet measured from grade plane to the average height of the highest roof surface.
    • For a qualifying parcel of at least 2.0 acres, located at least 20 feet from all property lines and regulated structures, the detached accessory-structure area may be increased to 400 square feet.
    • Other listed exemptions include specified sidewalks, slabs, painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, certain interior coverings, above-grade and on-ground swimming pools, playground equipment, limited porch/deck/patio covers, certain awnings, qualifying nonbearing partitions, certain siding repairs, low decks, masonry repair, gutters and downspouts, qualifying door/window replacements, qualifying reroofing, and qualifying membrane-covered frame structures.
    • Separate plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits may still be required for otherwise exempt items.
    • The code states that permit exemptions do not authorize work violating the code or other laws and do not limit a local municipality’s authority to enforce its ordinances.
    • The 2023 ORSC administrative provisions were effective and mandatory October 1, 2023; construction provisions were effective October 1, 2023 with a six-month phase-in and mandatory April 1, 2024.

    detached accessory structure area threshold: <= 200 square feet (May increase to 400 square feet on a qualifying parcel of at least 2.0 acres and at least 20 feet from all property lines and regulated structures.) · detached accessory structure height threshold: <= 15 feet (Measured from grade plane to average height of highest roof surface.) · qualifying parcel area: >= 2 acres (The structure must also be at least 20 feet from all property lines and regulated structures.) · qualifying-parcel setback: >= 20 feet (Applies to the 400-square-foot detached accessory-structure exception.)

    “shall first make application [...] and obtain the required permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Residential construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, or movement of a residential building or structure in Union County, subject to Oregon permit exemptions and local land-use requirements.
      “A building permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, or move a residential building or structure.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    An owner-built single-family residence and adjacent auxiliary structures whose structural components are constructed entirely by the owner intending to occupy them, or by that owner with unpaid assistance from friends and relatives.

    • The owner must be the title owner or contract purchaser of record shown on the last available complete assessment roll.
    • The owner must not have taken advantage of the exemptions under ORS 455.320(2) during the five years before applying for the exemption.
    • The exemption covers structural-code requirements for ceiling heights, room sizes, and maintenance of specific temperature levels.
    • The exemption applies to new construction, renovation, remodeling, or alteration of an owner-built dwelling or outbuilding.
    • A building permit must note whether the owner-built dwelling or outbuilding complies with the requirements from which it is exempted.
    • If the dwelling or structure does not comply with those requirements, the owner-builder must file a copy of the building permit with the county clerk for the permanent deed record and provide a sufficient property description.
    • This exemption does not eliminate the building-permit requirement or inspection requirements otherwise applicable under the building code.

    prior use of ORS 455.320(2) exemption lookback: 5 years (The owner must not have used the exemption during the five years before applying.)

    “Owner-built dwellings and outbuildings shall be exempt”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Owner-built single-family residences and adjacent auxiliary structures in Oregon where the structural components are constructed entirely by the owner intending to occupy the structures, or by the owner with unpaid assistance from friends and relatives.
      “Owner-built dwellings and outbuildings shall be exempt from any requirements of the structural code for ceiling heights, room sizes”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction, reconstruction, and repair of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses in Oregon, including applicable projects in Union County.

    • The Oregon Residential Specialty Code applies to one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
    • The 2023 ORSC administrative provisions were effective and mandatory October 1, 2023.
    • The 2023 ORSC construction provisions were effective October 1, 2023 with a six-month phase-in period and mandatory April 1, 2024.
    • The state Building Codes Division maintains a uniform building code throughout Oregon.

    administrative provisions mandatory date: 2023-10-01 date · construction provisions effective date: 2023-10-01 date (six-month phase-in period) · construction provisions mandatory date: 2024-04-01 date

    “The division works with building officials, technical committees, advisory boards, and the public to adopt, amend, and interpret the Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC). This code applies to the construction, reconstruction, and repair of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses. [...] Administrative provisions (Chapter 1): Effective and mandatory Oct. 1, 2023 [...] Construction provisions (Chapters 2 - 44 and appendices): Effective Oct. 1, 2023 with *six-month phase-in period [...] Mandatory April 1, 2024”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Oregon State Building Code specialty codes administered statewide by the Oregon Building Codes Division.
      “The Building Codes Division adopts, amends, and interprets specialty codes that make up the Oregon State Building Code.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Commercial construction, reconstruction, alteration, and repair governed by the Oregon Structural Specialty Code statewide.
      “Construction provisions: [...] Mandatory April 1, 2026”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction, reconstruction, and repair of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses governed by the Oregon Residential Specialty Code statewide.
      “2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC) [...] Based on 2021 International Residential Code (IRC)”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    New residential dwellings and townhouses, and changes in character, use, or occupancy, in Union County under the Oregon Residential Specialty Code.

    • Before occupancy of a new residential dwelling or townhouse, the building official must issue a certificate of occupancy unless a temporary certificate is issued.
    • A certificate of occupancy is required before a building or structure, or a changed portion, is used or occupied.
    • Certificates are not required for work exempt from permits under Section R105.2 or for accessory buildings or structures.
    • Before issuance, the general contractor or owner issued the structural permit must provide contact and relevant license information for the general, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing contractors who performed work.
    • The building official may revoke a certificate or temporary certificate in writing when the residential dwelling or townhouse violates applicable law posing a threat to health and safety.
    • A temporary certificate may be issued before all permitted work is complete if the portion to be occupied can be occupied safely, for a stated validity period.
    “Prior to occupancy of a new residential dwelling or townhouse the building official must issue a certificate of occupancy in the form and format established by the Division, unless a temporary certificate of occupancy is issued by the building official.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Use of composting toilets and related graywater systems in Oregon.

    • A composting toilet does not eliminate all household water; plumbing fixtures still need connection to an approved septic system.
    • If used with a graywater reuse system, both the graywater reuse system and septic system require a DEQ permit.
    • The graywater reuse system must be offline during wet-weather months or when discharges could create a public nuisance.
    • Material removed from a composting toilet must be buried under 12 inches of soil.
    • Buildings within a sewer district still need a sewer connection.

    burial depth for removed composting-toilet material: 12 inches · maximum reduced drainfield capacity mentioned by DEQ: two-thirds (The source says the drainfield may be approved for a smaller capacity, as much as two-thirds the size.)

    “Composting toilets don't eliminate all water generated in a home and therefore you will need to be hooked up to an approved wastewater treatment system.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Sanitary wastewater disposal by onsite wastewater treatment systems where municipal sewer is not legally or physically available, including Union County.
      “In areas where a municipal sewer system is not available, development must use onsite wastewater treatment systems, or septic systems, for sanitary disposal.”
    • Limited — Development in Union County using onsite wastewater treatment or septic systems where a municipal sewer system is not legally or physically available.
      “In areas where a municipal sewer system is not available, development must use onsite wastewater treatment systems, or septic systems, for sanitary disposal.”
  • Well permitRequired

    A property owner constructing, altering, converting, or abandoning a water-supply well in Oregon without being a licensed and bonded Water Supply Well Constructor.

    • A licensed and bonded Water Supply Well Constructor is exempt from the landowner-permit requirement stated on the page.
    • The permit, permit fee, and bond or irrevocable letter of credit must be obtained before work begins.
    • The application requires owner and surety information, proposed well location, proposed use, type of work, and a Department-approved well design plan.
    • The bond or irrevocable letter of credit is $10,000 and the permit fee is $550.
    • Only the owner of record, an immediate family member of the owner of record, or a full-time employee whose main duties are other than well construction may operate a drilling machine under a landowner permit.
    • The permit expires six months after issuance; a water-well report is due within 30 days after permit expiration or well completion, whichever occurs first.
    • The Department may deny a permit if the proposed work presents a health threat, health hazard, contamination source, or groundwater waste source.

    bond or irrevocable letter of credit: 10000 USD · permit fee: 550 USD · permit expiration: 6 months · water-well report deadline: 30 days (after permit expiration or well completion, whichever occurs first)

    “The Water Resources Commission requires a permit [...] for each water supply well constructed, altered, converted, or abandoned by a landowner”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Use of groundwater from wells in Union County, including domestic wells.
      “A few examples of uses that are exempt from this requirement include emergency fire control, stock watering, and domestic water use from a well not exceeding 15,000 gallons per day.”
    • Required — A landowner constructing, altering, converting, or abandoning a water-supply well in Union County, unless the landowner is a licensed and bonded Water Supply Well Constructor.
      “The Water Resources Commission requires a permit, permit fee, and bond or irrevocable letter of credit, for each water supply well constructed, altered, converted, or abandoned by a landowner, unless the landowner is a licensed and bonded Water Supply Well Constructor. The landowner permit and bond shall be obtained prior to beginning work on a well.”
    • Required — Construction, alteration, conversion, or abandonment of a water-supply well by a landowner in Union County.
      “The landowner permit and bond shall be obtained prior to beginning work on a well.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Oregon counties adopting and revising comprehensive plans, zoning, subdivision, and other land-use ordinances applicable to county land, including unincorporated areas.

    • The statutory text states an exception for ORS 527.722.
    • Plans and related ordinances may be adopted and revised part by part or by geographic area.
    • Zoning, subdivision, and other ordinances or regulations must be designed to implement the adopted county comprehensive plan.
    • Before a county zoning ordinance has legal effect, the governing body or planning commission must conduct one or more public hearings and publish 10 days' advance public notice; additional notice requirements apply to certain zone changes under ORS 215.223.
    “Except as provided in ORS 527.722, the county governing body shall adopt and may from time to time revise a comprehensive plan and zoning, subdivision and other ordinances applicable to all of the land in the county. The plan and related ordinances may be adopted and revised part by part or by geographic area.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Oregon counties administering and enforcing building inspection programs, including issuance and enforcement of building permits for residential construction in areas outside incorporated cities.

    • A county building inspection program is subject to the state building code and the statutory building-inspection-program framework.
    • If a county does not notify the director, or notifies the director that it will not administer and enforce a building inspection program, the director must arrange administration and enforcement through a municipality, other person, state employees, or state agencies; permit and other fees arising therefrom are paid into the Consumer and Business Services Fund.
    • A building inspection program is administered for four-year periods under ORS 455.150; the governing body must provide required notices to the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services.
    • The program must specify cooperation with the State Fire Marshal or designee and how a uniform fire code will be considered in design and construction review.
    • The cited archive is the 2015 Oregon Revised Statutes edition; the current official ORS 455 page was identified but returned a 403 error during retrieval.
    “If a city does not notify the director, or notifies the director that it will not administer the building inspection program, the county or counties in which the city is located shall administer and enforce the county program within the city in the same manner as the program is administered and enforced outside the city, except as provided by subsection (6) of this section.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage limits in unincorporated Union County.
  • Tiny homes — Tiny-home occupancy, including tiny homes on wheels, in unincorporated Union County

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Union County, Oregon

Is Union County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Union County scores 71/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 19,402 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use.

Do you need a building permit in Union County, Oregon?

Union County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Harney County Onsite Program (Oregon DEQ regional agent for Baker/Union/Wallowa Counties). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Union County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Union County is limited to specific cases: Campgrounds, travel-trailer parks, and motor-home parks in Union County R-1 Rural Center Zones; this provision does not establish unrestricted individual long-term RV occupancy on private land. Conditional use approval by the Planning Commission is required. Applicable Article 21.00 conditional-use standards, Article 20.10 site-plan requirements, and Article 20.11 off-street parking and loading requirements apply. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Union County, Oregon?

Land in Union County runs about $2,830 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Union County?

Union County gets about 28.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 11.7% of years.

How remote is Union County?

A representative private-land location has about 19,402 people within a 30-minute drive and 246,387 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Union compares in Oregon

Compare side-by-side →See all 36 Oregon counties ranked →