Code Enforcement - FAQs

FAQS

Why is my property flagged on DIAL?
The warning flag on properties can indicate several things. If you see a Code Enforcement warning, it indicates that there has been a substantiated code violation on your property, and there is an active case. If you are a property owner and were not aware of a violation, please contact the code enforcement department. Once all code violations are resolved on the property, the flag can be removed within 24 hours.
 

Are anonymous complaint accepted?

Code Enforcement does not accept anonymous complaints by Policy and Procedure that was approved by the Deschutes County Board of County Commissioners.  Code Enforcement requires a complete submittal in order for a case to be opened and investigated.  The benefit of not allowing anonymous complaints is that the complaint is generally reliable, neighboring vantage points can be used with permission during the investigation to gather evidence, the complainant’s testimony can be utilized in court, and the complainant can receive updates to the case status.

Exceptions:

• Marijuana production
• Imminent threat to public life, health and safety or to the environment, which threat easily may be verified by County staff. 
   

 Will my complaint be kept confidential?

Code enforcement files will be maintained as confidential files throughout the investigation, violation prosecution and/or other types of code enforcement to the extent legally permissible.  The contents of code enforcement files will not be disclosed to anyone other than County staff who have a reason to know about and who are involved in the investigation, or to similar staff of an agency with which the County is cooperating. The contents of the file will not be disclosed to any other person absent court order or an official public records request, until: 1) the investigation is complete, and a discovery request is made; or 2) the file is closed and disclosure is made pursuant to the public records law. 

What are the RV Occupation Rules? 
RV Occupation is not allowed on properties that have an established dwelling in Deschutes County. State land use laws prohibit multifamily dwellings in rural land. Read more about RV Regulation here: Code Compliance - RV Regulation DCC 18.116.095 | Deschutes County Oregon

Can I have a business on a residential property?
 Commercial use in areas zoned for residential use are regulated based on the impact they make to the surrounding area. The planning department has created a chart to help guide property owners on what is allowed and what requires approval through the County prior to the business being started. The link to some information from planning is available here Land Use Planning. For more details, please contact the planning department at 541-388-6560 or at planning@deschutes.org.

What kind of home occupations are allowed without a permit (Type 1) (deschutes.org)

What is a Solid Waste Violation?
Solid waste violations are commonly related to excessive materials or vehicles on property. Common examples are building materials, household garbage, non-running vehicles, appliances, and furniture.

DCC 13.26.010 - Definition
DCC 13.12.205 - Definition

Are there fence requirements?
Fences are regulated in Deschutes County.  Restrictions for fences include height, setbacks, and line of sight considerations.  All requirements are specific to an individual address.  For fence details on a specific property contact planning@ deschutes.org. 

Fence Brochure (deschutes.org)

Are ADU's allowed in Deschutes County?
Yes, visit the ADU webpage for more information. Research Checklist - Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

What are the Short Term Rental Rules?

Short term rental accommodations must be lawfully established under Planning, Onsite, and Building Safety code regulations.  Accommodations in accessory structures are not allowed.  Contact Planning@deschutes.org for specific property allowances. 

Short Term Rentals must also be registered with Deschutes County for the Transient Room Tax.  Once the accommodation is confirmed as a legal use;  go here to register your Short Term Rental: https://www.deschutes.org/finance/page/transient-room-tax