MDK Permitting › Permit guides
Do I need a permit to remove a load-bearing wall?
Yes. Taking out or opening up a bearing wall changes how your house holds itself up, so it needs a permit and an engineered beam.
Why does it need a permit?
A load-bearing wall carries weight from the roof or floor above. Removing it means a new beam and posts sized to carry that load down to the foundation. The city reviews that design and inspects the work.
Does it need an engineer?
Yes. We size the beam and posts, draw the plans, and a licensed Oregon professional engineer stamps them, about $200 at cost.
How do I know if a wall is load-bearing?
Walls running across the floor joists or under a beam or another wall usually are. Send us photos of the wall and the attic or basement above and below, and we'll tell you.
What do you need from me?
How wide the opening will be, photos, and your address.
What it costs
Our price, plus city permit fees worked out from each city’s published fee schedule. City fees are paid to the city and the final amount is set at review. Construction isn’t included.
| Example | MDK price | Washington County | Hillsboro | Portland | Clackamas County | Marion County |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 ft opening in a bearing wall Building permit | $1,475 plans, engineering & permits + engineer stamp about $200 | About $955 | About $290 | About $795 | About $390 | About $325 |
County columns are for areas outside city limits. Other cities have their own fees. Get your exact numbers with the price builder.
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More permit guides: Decks · Retaining walls · Outdoor stairs · Porch & patio covers · ADUs & garage conversions · Additions · Panels, EV chargers & hot tubs · Sheds & fences
General guidance for Oregon homeowners. Rules vary by city and county, and the building official makes the final call. Prices checked against published fee schedules in November 2026.