Summary
Operating as a general contractor in Bend, Oregon requires obtaining an Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license, which involves passing exams, meeting insurance requirements, and posting a surety bond. The CCB license must be registered locally with the City of Bend before pulling permits. Building permits are required for most construction work and are processed through Bend's Development Services Department, with review times typically taking 3-15 business days depending on project complexity. Contractors must maintain minimum insurance coverage as required by the CCB, though higher limits are often required by clients and municipalities. The construction market in Bend commands premium pricing due to high demand and material costs, with projects typically running 15-25% above state averages. Success requires staying current with continuing education requirements, ensuring all subcontractors are properly licensed, and maintaining compliance with both state CCB regulations and local Bend building codes and permit processes.
License Requirements
General contractors in Oregon must obtain a Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license through the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. Requirements include passing a business and trade exam, providing proof of insurance, and meeting financial responsibility requirements. The CCB license requires 16 hours of continuing education every two years. License fees range from $290-$590 depending on endorsement type. Bend does not require a separate local contractor license, but contractors must register their CCB license with the city before pulling permits. All work over $200 requires a valid CCB license.
Permit Requirements
Building permits are required through the City of Bend Development Services Department for most construction projects. Applications can be submitted online through the city's permit portal or in person. Typical review times are 3-5 business days for residential projects and 10-15 business days for commercial projects. Permit fees vary by project scope, typically ranging from $150 for minor residential work to $5,000+ for major commercial projects. Plan review fees are additional and calculated based on valuation. Special permits may be required for work in the Urban Renewal District or historic areas.
Insurance Requirements
Oregon CCB requires minimum $15,000 public liability insurance and $5,000 property damage insurance. Workers' compensation insurance is mandatory for contractors with employees. The CCB also requires a $20,000 surety bond. Many clients and the City of Bend require higher insurance limits, typically $1 million general liability. Contractors working on public projects must meet prevailing wage requirements and may need additional bonding. Insurance certificates must be filed with the CCB and updated annually.
Typical Cost Ranges
Residential remodels: $25,000-$150,000. New home construction: $350-$500 per square foot. Commercial tenant improvements: $50-$200 per square foot. Custom homes: $450-$800+ per square foot. Kitchen remodels: $35,000-$100,000. Bathroom remodels: $15,000-$45,000. Room additions: $200-$400 per square foot. Bend's high-end market and material costs typically run 15-25% above Oregon state averages.
Compliance Checklist
- ✓Obtain Oregon CCB license with appropriate endorsements
- ✓Register CCB license with City of Bend Development Services
- ✓Secure required insurance coverage and file certificates with CCB
- ✓Apply for and obtain necessary building permits before starting work
- ✓Ensure all subcontractors have valid CCB licenses
- ✓Post required CCB notice at job sites
- ✓Schedule mandatory inspections with Bend building department
- ✓Maintain continuing education requirements for license renewal
READYDOCS
These are the documents Iris tracks for you.
Store them in one place. Get alerts before anything expires. Ask Iris anything from the job site.
$19/month — First month free. No credit card required.
No credit card. Cancel anytime.