If you are changing how you use your current property or you are improving your property, you may need approval from the City of Salem.

Step 1: Review Requirements

The requirements and processes for land use applications are different depending on what you want to do. Generally, actions fall into one of the following categories:

• Change your property use
• Change property boundaries
• Develop and build on your property

You should talk to a planner about your project if you do not know what land use approval you need. A planner can provide you with the information and application packet you need.

Step 2: Request a Pre-application Conference

You can request a pre-application conference to get detailed information on how to move forward with your project. In some cases, a pre-application conference is required. You can talk to a planner or consult the application packet for your land use action to find out if a pre-application conference is required.

Step 3: Submit Your Land Use Application

Once you know the submittal requirements, you are ready to submit your land use application.

Land use procedure types determine the process used to make and appeal a requested land use decision under Salem Revised Code Chapter 300. Many land use applications like partitions, subdivisions, and adjustments follow a Type II process that provides the public an opportunity to comment on the proposed project.

Land Use Applications must be submitted through the City of Salem Permit Application Center Portal. The first time you use the portal, you will need to create an account. You no longer need a separate land use application form; one will be created for you as you submit your application through the Permit Application Center Portal. You will be required to sign the application that is created and upload the signed form. Click here for a helpful tutorial video on how to submit a land use application in the PAC Portal.

Once you are logged in:

1. Click the Land Use Applications button at the top of the Dashboard.
2. Follow the instructions for submitting your application, including uploading the required forms and plans, and paying the application fee.

Please review the submittal requirements for the specific land use application(s) that you are applying for. Some applications require submittal of one or more of the following forms:

• Expedited Land Division Application
• Trip Generation Estimate Form
• Tree Removal Permit Application
• Tree Conservation Plan Application
• Tree Conservation Plan Adjustment Application 

Make sure you follow the file naming standards for land use applications when preparing your files. 

The application will be cancelled if payment is not submitted with five days after the application submittal process is completed.