Permits
Changes to the permit system at Community Development effective July 1st 2025.
City of Salem Community Development has implemented an Online application, payment and scheduling system powered by Cityworks.
This system allows applicants to:
- Apply for permits (and other items)
- View application status
- Print permit documents
- Pay Fees
- Schedule Inspections
To apply for a permit, click here
The Community Development Department is excited to announce the launch of the City of Salem Online Permit Portal.
This portal will provide a convenient way for residents and contractors to apply for permits, view application status, schedule inspections and pay permit fees. As an online service, the Permit Portal is available 24/7. This portal will allow applicants to see the real-time status of their application, any documents that they have submitted with it and access to permit cards and letters once permits have been approved.
With the launch of this exciting new online experience, some processes are changing in Community Development.
All permit applications will be required to be submitted via the permit portal. Paper and Email applications will no longer be accepted. The online application process has been meticulously designed to make the application process more efficient and accessible.
All permit payments will now be processed through the portal. Community Development will no longer accept payments over the phone. To make this new process more accessible, we are excited to announce that accepted payment types have been expanded to include eCheck for direct bank payments and card options now include all major credit & debit cards including AMEX. Please note that the City of Salem does not charge transaction fees for using the online payment system; however, your Financial Institution may charge you fees related to your Credit Card, Debit Card or eCheck transactions, including transaction fees or fees for attempting transfers without sufficient funds.
Scheduling inspections will also be processed through the portal. This process will allow you to schedule applicable inspections for your active permits. Inspections can be scheduled for the following workday up to 4pm. Schedulers can select from an all day, morning or afternoon inspections slot.
We have created user guides, complete with some frequently asked questions for all these new processes. We recommend taking some time to familiarize yourself with the processes before the launch of the permitting portal on July 1st.