Bolthole Index

Gilliam County, Oregon

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Gilliam County, Oregon

36Index Score / 100
#36 of 36 in Oregon

Gilliam County, Oregon requires building permits for residential construction under Oregon's statewide building codes, and the City of Boardman Building Department issues them for the county1,2. Zoning approval comes from Gilliam County Planning for county land and from the city for land inside incorporated cities such as Condon3. Septic permits come from Umatilla County Public Health, not from the county or Boardman4.

Do you need a building permit in Gilliam County, Oregon?

Yes.

Yes. A building permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair or move a residential building or structure in Gilliam County1. Oregon's residential code covers one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses, while structures outside that scope follow the Oregon Structural Specialty Code11. Some minor work is exempt, including a qualifying one-story, nonhabitable detached accessory structure under 200 square feet and under 15 feet high, but exempt structural work can still need mechanical, electrical, plumbing or land-use approval1.

Permitted work is inspected as construction progresses, and work cannot continue beyond an inspection point without the building official's approval9. A new dwelling or townhouse needs a certificate of occupancy before anyone moves in unless the building official issues a temporary certificate9.

Who issues building permits in Gilliam County?

The City of Boardman administers the building program for Gilliam County.

The City of Boardman administers the building program for Gilliam County2. Boardman's Building Department handles residential and commercial building, mechanical, plumbing and electrical permits, along with plan reviews2. Call the office at 541-626-7011 before preparing an application2. Structural permit fees are calculated from the project's valuation, which includes all construction work and contractor profit, rather than a single flat fee12.

Gilliam County Planning does not issue building permits, but its zoning approval is required before Boardman issues a permit2. Planning reviews zoning permits, conditional-use permits, partitions and other land-use actions; call 541-351-9342 or email michelle.colby@gilliamcountyor.gov for parcel-level direction3. Complete building applications may be submitted in person, by mail, email, fax or Oregon ePermitting2.

Does Gilliam County have zoning, and who sets it?

Yes, but the applicable zoning authority depends on the parcel.

Yes, but the applicable zoning authority depends on the parcel. Gilliam County Planning administers county land-use rules, while incorporated municipalities such as Condon maintain separate zoning controls3. County Planning reviews zoning permits, conditional uses and land partitions; owners of land inside a city should confirm zoning with that municipality, while septic permits stay with Umatilla County Public Health3,5.

County standards vary sharply by district. New parcels in the RR-III zone, identified as Dunn's Addition to Condon, must be at least 10 acres and demonstrate onsite sewage-disposal feasibility before final development approval6. In the RC zone, residential lots must be at least 5 acres, and no building may sit closer than 45 feet to a street centerline6. In the rural residential zone around Lonerock, setbacks are 25 feet in unplatted areas, and nonfarm lots next to farm-use parcels need 25 feet in front and 50 feet at the rear and sides6. In the RR-II zone, minimum setbacks are 20 feet in front and 10 feet at the side and rear6. Gilliam County's minimum dwelling floor area could not be confirmed; ask Planning about land under county jurisdiction. Condon separately requires qualifying manufactured homes on individual lots in specified residential zones to be permanent residences, multi-sectional, and at least 1,000 square feet7.

How do septic permits work in Gilliam County?

Umatilla County Public Health administers onsite septic services for Gilliam County.

Umatilla County Public Health administers onsite septic services for Gilliam County5. For a household that is not served by public sewer, UCO Health issues the septic permit and provides separate packets for site evaluation, construction, repair and alteration4. The agency also inspects onsite systems for proper installation and treatment4.

Soil suitability deserves early attention: only about 19.2% of Gilliam County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field13. Contact Environmental Health at 541-278-5432 or health@umatillacounty.gov before relying on a homesite or house layout4. Alternative off-grid sanitation permission could not be confirmed; ask Environmental Health what wastewater system it will approve.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Gilliam County?

Gilliam County does not allow people to live in recreational vehicles in the RR-II zone, although as many as two RVs may be stored if they are not dumped onsite.

Gilliam County does not allow people to live in recreational vehicles in the RR-II zone, although as many as two RVs may be stored if they are not dumped onsite6. In the EFU zone, one RV may qualify as a temporary hardship residence alongside an existing dwelling6. EFU campground stays are recreational rather than residential and cannot exceed 30 days in a consecutive six-month period6.

City rules differ. Condon RV parks are not for residential occupancy and cap a stay at 180 consecutive days7. Arlington no longer issues new permits under its temporary worker-housing RV program, and existing permits end at expiration8.

Gilliam County's tiny-home occupancy rules could not be confirmed; ask the authority for the parcel to classify the unit. County rules do allow one temporary accessory manufactured home in any county zone through a Type II Conditional Use when a doctor certifies that a relative needs care, utilities are available and septic feasibility is established6.

Building a home in Gilliam County: steps in order

Ask Gilliam County Planning to verify the parcel's zone, allowed dwelling use and required land-use approvals.

  1. Ask Gilliam County Planning to verify the parcel's zone, allowed dwelling use and required land-use approvals3.
  2. If the site lacks public sewer, arrange Umatilla County Public Health's site evaluation and septic permitting4.
  3. Resolve driveway access; county standards apply to properties abutting arterials and collectors, and one-way driveways must be 10 to 12 feet wide6.
  4. Obtain any floodplain development permit before work starts in an unincorporated special flood-hazard area6.
  5. Submit the building application to the City of Boardman after Gilliam County zoning approval and applicable onsite sewage approval2.
  6. Request required inspections as construction progresses and obtain the certificate of occupancy before moving into a new dwelling9.

What should you check before buying land in Gilliam County?

Start with zoning, legal access, flood exposure, water and wastewater rather than assuming a vacant parcel is buildable.

Start with zoning, legal access, flood exposure, water and wastewater rather than assuming a vacant parcel is buildable. Gilliam County requires a development permit before construction or development begins in an unincorporated special flood-hazard area6. County access standards also regulate driveways serving properties along arterials and collectors6.

A subdivision, partition, replat or property-line adjustment in unincorporated Gilliam County must follow the county land-division rules, and building and sanitation permits cannot issue until the required final plat is approved and recorded6. Gilliam County averages about 11.4 inches of precipitation a year, so confirm a lawful and reliable water source13. A landowner doing water-supply well work must obtain the state permit and required financial security before starting10. Typical farmland value is about $1,338 per acre, while the median annual property-tax bill is about $1,597; both are countywide context, not a parcel appraisal or tax quote13.

Watch-outs

  • Gilliam County zoning approval and applicable onsite sewage approval come before issuance of the building permit2.
  • Qualifying agricultural buildings may be exempt from the structural specialty code, but electrical, plumbing and mechanical permits still apply14.
  • An EFU campground stay is temporary recreation, not residential occupancy, and is limited to 30 days in a consecutive six-month period6.
  • The owner-builder provision is narrow: a permit is still issued, and the exemption concerns specified structural-code requirements rather than all building rules9.
  • Gilliam County permit fees were not confirmed; Oregon building-code fees vary by work type and local fees may also apply, so request a current project-specific estimate from the City of Boardman before budgeting15.

Sources

15 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 9, 2026

  1. About Oregon residential building permits
  2. Gilliam County Building Permits
  3. Planning | Gilliam County, Oregon
  4. ucohealth.net
  5. ucohealth.net
  6. Gilliam County Zoning and Land Development Ordinance
  7. City of Condon Title XV: Land Usage
  8. Notice regarding temporary residential RV use
  9. 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code - Chapter 1
  10. Landowner Constructed Wells
  11. Housing Accountability and Production Office | State of Oregon
  12. Gilliam County Building Permits
  13. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  14. Oregon Revised Statutes, Chapter 455 (Oregon statewide rule)
  15. Valuation and fee requirements by work/record type (Oregon statewide rule)

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Gilliam County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleGilliam CountySherman CountyMorrow CountyWasco CountyWheeler CountyHood River CountyJefferson County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsUmatilla County Public HealthNorth Central Public Health DistrictUCo HealthNorth Central Public Health DistrictOR DEQ Onsite Wastewater ProgramCounty Env. HealthCounty Community Development

County locator

Gilliam County in Oregon

36
County map
Gilliam County highlighted among the Oregon counties · colored by Index score

How Gilliam County scores

36 / 100 · #36 of 36 in Oregon · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion84100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency1292% ev.
Admin Boringness42100% ev.
Durability39100% ev.
Property Autonomy72100% ev.
Carry Cost78100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$252kTypical home
1%Property tax
$1,338Land / acre
11.4"Annual rain
22.1% of yrsSevere drought
9.5 / yr (+7.5)Mid-century 100°F days
37.4 daysMid-century dry spell
0.63" (+4.9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.16×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,113Home insurance / yr
4.6% / yrInsurance growth
0.3%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
423,730People within 2 hr
1,111Radius comparison (15 mi)
1.7People / sq mi
10.6%Federal land
54.6%Land at 15% slope or less
19.2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
144,411 acWorkable land screen
1.2%Wooded land
50.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Gilliam County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Answers from the rulebook for Gilliam County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Gilliam County rules

  • County-wide zoningPresent

    County land-use zoning regulations administered by Gilliam County, including the county's established use zones and combining zones.

    • A parcel's applicable requirements depend on its mapped use zone and any combining or overlay zone.
    • The ordinance states that development in a combining zone must comply with both the combining-zone and basic-zone regulations.

    established use zones: A-D, EFU, R-C, R-R, M-L, M-G, I-M, R-10, RR-II, RR-III · combining zones: FH, GH, SR, AO

    “For the purpose of this ordinance, the following zones are hereby established in the County:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present — County land-use regulation in Gilliam County, including the county zoning ordinance and zoning and subdivision ordinance.
      “The Gilliam County Zoning Ordinance provides the legal framework for the land use regulations in the County.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning across Gilliam County, including county-administered zones and location-specific residential zones associated with incorporated areas and urban growth boundaries.

    • The county ordinance establishes multiple zones and district-specific standards.
    • The RR-II zone applies to a specified area within the City of Condon Urban Growth Boundary, while the RR-III zone applies to Dunn's Addition to the City of Condon; other zones and standards apply elsewhere.
    • A parcel-specific zoning-map review is required to determine the applicable district and standards.
    “SECTION 4.130 RR-II RURAL RESIDENTIAL II [...] SECTION 4.140 RR-III RURAL RESIDENTIAL III”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Local zoning regulation administered through Gilliam County's planning and zoning program.
      “Administer and enforce local and Oregon State land use laws, regulations and ordinances, including the Gilliam County Comprehensive Plan and Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate conclusion for Gilliam County: county zoning is administered by the county in at least some county territory, while incorporated municipalities such as Condon maintain separate municipal zoning controls.
      “The Planning Department is responsible for comprehensive land use planning for Gilliam County. The Gilliam County Zoning Ordinance provides the legal framework for the land use regulations in the County.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Manufactured homes subject to Section 8.120 of the Gilliam County Zoning and Land Development Ordinance.

    • The 1,000-square-foot minimum applies specifically to manufactured homes and is not a general minimum floor-area rule for every dwelling type.
    • The manufactured home must also meet the ordinance's construction-date, foundation, and enclosure requirements.

    minimum enclosed area: >= 1000 square feet

    “B. The manufactured home shall be multi-sectional and enclose a space of not less than 1,000 square feet.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    The RR-III Rural Residential III Zone applied to Dunn's Addition to the City of Condon, identified by the ordinance as Assessor Maps 04S21E03CC and 04S21E0CD.

    • Existing lots use the lot size existing on the date the section was adopted.
    • All new parcels in the zone must be at least 10 acres.
    • For new lots/parcels and new/expanded uses, sufficient on-site sewage disposal feasibility must be demonstrated before final development approval.
    • Upon annexation to a Gilliam County city and availability of that city's sewer system, all dwellings must connect to the city's wastewater system.

    minimum lot size for existing lots: existing lot size at adoption · minimum lot size for new parcels: >= 10 acres

    “(added/adopted June 16, 2021 via County Ordinance No. 2021-04 ~ applied to area known as Dunn’s Addition to The City of Condon Assessor Map 04S21E03CC and Map 04S21E0CD)”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential and other uses in Gilliam County's Rural Unincorporated Community (R-C) Zone, including Mayville, Olex, and Mikkalo.
      “1. The minimum lot area for all residential uses shall be 5 acres. If at the date of this ordinance a lot or contiguous lots are less than five acres, then that lot or contiguous lots shall be treated the same as a 5 acre parcel. 2. The minimum lot area for all commercial or industrial uses shall be the maximum to accommodate the use. 3. All parcels shall be large enough to comply with DEQ subsurface sewage regulations.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — The RR-II Rural Residential II Zone applied within the City of Condon Urban Growth Boundary north of Cottonwood Lane, west of Highway 19, and east of Brown Lane.
      “(added/adopted May 5, 2021 via County Ordinance No. 2021-03 ~ applied to area within City of Condon Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) north of Cottonwood Lane, west of highway 19 and east of Brown Lane)”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    The RR-II Rural Residential II Zone within the City of Condon Urban Growth Boundary north of Cottonwood Lane, west of Highway 19, and east of Brown Lane.

    • Front yard minimum is 20 feet.
    • Side yard minimum is 10 feet.
    • Rear yard minimum is 10 feet.
    • For new lots/parcels and new/expanded uses, sufficient on-site sewage disposal feasibility must be demonstrated before final development approval.
    • Upon annexation to a Gilliam County city and availability of that city's sewer system, all dwellings must connect to the city's wastewater system.
    • Outdoor lighting, access, clear vision areas, signs, and parking are subject to Article 8.
    • Access must include a 20-foot-wide paved apron from a state, county, or city roadway.
    • A fence or hedge within a front yard or street side yard may not exceed six feet above base or ground elevation.

    front yard setback: >= 20 feet · side yard setback: >= 10 feet · rear yard setback: >= 10 feet · front-yard or street-side fence/hedge height: <= 6 feet · paved roadway apron width: >= 20 feet (Required for access from a state, county, or city roadway.)

    “2. Front yard. The front yard shall be a minimum of 20 feet. 3. Side yard. A side yard shall be a minimum of 10 feet. 4. Rear yard. The minimum rear yard shall be 10 feet. 5. For new lots/parcels and new/expanded uses, an applicant must demonstrate feasibility of sufficient on-site sewage disposal prior to final approval for development. Upon annexation to any Gilliam County city and at such time as that city's sewer system becomes available, all dwellings must be connected to the city's wastewater system. 6. Outdoor lighting subject to Article 8. 7. Access subject to Article 8. a. Shall have a 20 feet wide paved apron from state, county, or city roadway. 8. Clear vision areas subject to Article 8. 9. Sign regulations subject to Article 8. 10. Parking subject to Article 8. 11. Fences. A fence or hedge within a front yard or street side yard shall not exceed an elevation six feet above the base or ground elevation.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Buildings in the R-R Recreation Residential Zone in the Original Townsite of Lonerock, Henshaw Addition, unplatted areas of Lonerock, and other unplatted county areas in the RR Zone.
      “rear and side yard setbacks shall be 50 feet.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Buildings and development in Gilliam County's Rural Unincorporated Community (R-C) Zone, including Mayville, Olex, and Mikkalo.
      “4. No buildings shall be located closer than 45 feet to a street centerline.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Buildings in the Recreation Residential (R-R) Zone, including the Original Townsite of Lonerock, Henshaw Addition, unplatted areas of Lonerock, and unplatted areas of Gilliam County in the RR Zone.
      “1. In the Original Townsite of Lonerock and the Henshaw Addition thereto, the front and rear yard setbacks from the property line shall be 15 feet. Each side yard setback from a property line shall be 10 feet. 2. In the unplatted areas of Lonerock and the County in the RR Zone, the minimum setback requirements shall be as follows: a. The front, rear, and side yard setbacks from the property line shall be 25 feet. b. Parcels or lots involving nonfarm residential use which are adjacent to farm use parcels shall observe the following minimum setback requirements: (1) The front yard setback shall be 25 feet. (2) The rear and side yard setbacks shall be 50 feet.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — The RR-III Rural Residential III Zone applied to Dunn's Addition to the City of Condon, identified by the ordinance as Assessor Maps 04S21E03CC and 04S21E0CD.
      “2. Front yard. The front yard shall be a minimum of 20 feet. 3. Side yard. A side yard shall be a minimum of 10 feet. 4. Rear yard. The minimum rear yard shall be 10 feet. 5. For new lots/parcels and new/expanded uses, an applicant must demonstrate feasibility of sufficient on-site sewage disposal prior to final approval for development. Upon annexation to any Gilliam County city and at such time as that city's sewer system becomes available, all dwellings must be connected to the city's wastewater system. 6. Outdoor lighting subject to Article 8. 7. Access subject to Article 8. a. Shall have a 20 feet wide paved apron from state, county, or city roadway. 8. Clear vision areas subject to Article 8. 9. Sign regulations subject to Article 8. 10. Parking subject to Article 8. 11. Fences. A fence or hedge within a front yard or street side yard shall not exceed an elevation six feet above the base or ground elevation.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Buildings in the M-L Limited Industrial Zone.

    maximum building coverage: <= 50 percent (Buildings only)

    “In an M-L Zone, buildings shall not occupy more than 50 percent of the lot area.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicles in the Gilliam County RR-II Rural Residential II zone, including the RR-II area within the City of Condon Urban Growth Boundary but outside incorporated city limits.

    • Up to two recreational vehicles are permitted per lot, parcel, or tract.
    • The recreational vehicles may not be lived in.
    • The recreational vehicles may not be dumped on site.
    • A zoning/development permit is required for uses permitted in the RR-II zone.

    recreational vehicles per lot/parcel/tract: <= 2 vehicles

    “8. Two (2) recreational vehicles per lot/parcel/tract. a. Not to be lived in. b. Not allowed to be dumped on site.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — One recreational vehicle used as a temporary residence in conjunction with an existing dwelling in Gilliam County's Exclusive Farm Use zone when authorized for the term of a qualifying hardship.
      “Within three months of the end of the hardship, the manufactured dwelling or recreational vehicle shall be removed or demolished, or in the case of an existing building, the building shall be removed, demolished or returned to an allowable nonresidential use.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Private parks and campgrounds in Gilliam County EFU zones.

    • Campgrounds are not allowed within three miles of an urban growth boundary unless an exception is approved pursuant to ORS 197.732 and OAR Chapter 660, Division 4, except on a lot or parcel contiguous to a lake or reservoir.
    • A campground is for overnight temporary use for vacation, recreational, or emergency purposes, not residential purposes, and must be established on a site or be contiguous to lands with a park or other outdoor natural amenity accessible to occupants.
    • The campground must be designed and integrated into the rural agricultural and forest environment, protecting natural amenities and providing buffers of existing native trees, vegetation, or other natural features between campsites.
    • Campsites may be occupied by a tent, travel trailer, or recreational vehicle.
    • Separate sewer, water, or electric service hookups may not be provided to individual campsites.
    • Authorized campgrounds may not include intensively developed recreational uses such as swimming pools, tennis courts, retail stores, or gas stations.
    • Overnight temporary use in the same campground by a camper or camper's vehicle may not exceed 30 days during any consecutive six-month period.
    • Approval is subject to the review criteria of Section 4.020.H and other applicable criteria or law.
    • New uses may not be established on high-value farmland; existing facilities wholly within an EFU zone on high-value farmland may be maintained, enhanced, or expanded on the same tract subject to other legal requirements.

    urban growth boundary separation: < 3 miles (Exception approved pursuant to ORS 197.732 and OAR Chapter 660, Division 4; exception for a lot or parcel contiguous to a lake or reservoir.) · maximum overnight temporary use: <= 30 days per consecutive 6-month period

    “Campsites may be occupied by a tent, travel trailer or recreational vehicle. Separate sewer, water or electric service hookups shall not be provided to individual campsites. [...] Overnight temporary use in the same campground by a camper or camper’s vehicle shall not exceed a total of 30 days during any consecutive 6-month period.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    One accessory manufactured home dwelling used temporarily in conjunction with an existing primary dwelling, in any Gilliam County zoning district, to care for an elderly, mentally handicapped, or infirm relative.

    • The County may allow the use only as a Type II Conditional Use.
    • No additions to the manufactured home are permitted.
    • A medical doctor must certify that the relative needs this care or custody.
    • Residential utilities and facilities must be available; septic feasibility is required before approval.
    • The permit becomes void when the relative moves to another residence, is absent for more than 120 days, or leaves with no likelihood of returning; an exception to the 120-day limit may be provided for extraordinary circumstances such as extended hospitalization.
    • Within 30 days after the permit becomes void or is revoked, the owner must remove the accessory manufactured home unless otherwise approved by the Commission.
    • The County or its designated representative may review the permit at any time and revoke it for noncompliance.
    • The manufactured home must be located as close as possible to the primary dwelling.

    maximum absence before permit void: > 120 days (Exception may be provided for extraordinary circumstances such as extended hospitalization.) · removal deadline after permit void or revocation: 30 days (Unless otherwise approved by the Commission.)

    “As a temporary use in every zone, the County may, as a Type II Conditional Use, allow one accessory manufactured home dwelling providing that no additions to the manufactured home shall be permitted in conjunction with a primary dwelling”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    One temporary accessory manufactured-home dwelling in conjunction with a primary dwelling in any Gilliam County zoning district for care or custody of an elderly, mentally handicapped, or infirm relative.

    • The use requires a Type II Conditional Use.
    • No additions to the manufactured home are permitted.
    • A medical doctor must certify the relative needs the care or custody.
    • Residential utilities and facilities must be available and septic feasibility must be established before approval.
    • The permit becomes void when the relative moves, is absent more than 120 days, or leaves with no likelihood of returning, subject to an extraordinary-circumstances exception such as extended hospitalization.
    • The home must be removed within 30 days after the permit becomes void or is revoked unless the Commission approves otherwise.
    • The County may review and revoke the permit for noncompliance.
    • The home must be located as close as possible to the primary dwelling.

    number of accessory manufactured homes: 1 home · maximum absence before permit void: > 120 days (Exception may be provided for extraordinary circumstances such as extended hospitalization.) · removal deadline: 30 days (Unless otherwise approved by the Commission.)

    “As a temporary use in every zone, the County may, as a Type II Conditional Use, allow one accessory manufactured home dwelling providing that no additions to the manufactured home shall be permitted in conjunction with a primary dwelling”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    Sub-surface and onsite septic services in Gilliam County, including unincorporated areas, administered by Umatilla County Public Health.

    “Umatilla County Public Health Environmental Health for Umatilla, Morrow, & Gilliam”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Households in Gilliam County that are not served by public sewer and use onsite septic systems.

    • The source specifically applies to households not served by public sewer.
    • UCO Health provides a site evaluation packet, construction permit packet, and repair and alteration permit packet.
    “UCO Health issues septic system permits for households that are not served by public sewer.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Onsite septic systems in Gilliam County administered by Umatilla County Public Health.

    • The source specifically discusses households not served by public sewer.
    • Inspections are conducted to ensure proper installation, adequate treatment, and prevention of public sewage exposure.
    “UCO Health is also responsible for conducting inspections on these systems to ensure that they are installed properly to provide adequate treatment and prevent sewage exposure to the public.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Partitioning land exclusively for agricultural purposes in unincorporated Gilliam County.

    • Each parcel must be at least 160 acres.
    • No more than two such parcels may be created in any calendar year.
    • No more than four such parcels may be created over a five-year period.
    • The exemption is from the land-partitioning requirements of Article 5; other county ordinances and state statutes may still apply.

    minimum parcel size: >= 160 acres (Land partitioned exclusively for agricultural purposes) · annual parcel limit: <= 2 parcels per calendar year · five-year parcel limit: <= 4 parcels per five-year period

    “Partitioning of land by parcels of not less than 160 acres exclusively for agricultural purposes, provided the number of such parcels does not exceed two (2) in any one calendar year, and provided that the total number of such parcels created over a five-year period does not exceed four (4).”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivisions, partitions, replats, and property-line adjustments in unincorporated Gilliam County.

    • A tentative plan must comply with the Comprehensive Plan, Article 5, the applicable zone's minimum lot size, setback, and other requirements, and other applicable ordinance standards.
    • Lots or parcels must generally have at least 25 feet of road frontage and legal, physically practicable access.
    • Subdivision applications must include required plans, title information, water, sanitation, utilities, phasing information, evidence of compliance, an application form, and fee.
    • Building and sanitation permits will not be issued before the required final plat is approved and recorded.
    • Expedited land-division procedures may be requested for partitioning residentially zoned land inside an urban growth boundary under ORS 197.360 through 197.380.

    minimum road frontage: >= 25 feet (Subject to the access alternatives and variance provision in Section 5.110(A)(4)) · maximum lots served by a dead-end road: <= 19 lots

    “No person may subdivide partition, replat or adjust the property lines of any lot or parcel in the unincorporated area of Gilliam County except in accordance with the provisions of this Article.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveways and access connections serving properties subject to the Gilliam County Zoning and Land Development Ordinance, especially properties abutting arterials and collectors.

    • The access standards apply to all arterials and collectors within Gilliam County and all properties abutting those roadways.
    • One-way-in or one-way-out driveways must be 10 to 12 feet wide and have appropriate one-way signage.
    • For two-way access, each lane must be 10 to 12 feet wide.
    • Driveway approaches must provide an exiting vehicle with an unobstructed view.
    • The County may reduce access-point separation only when specified joint-access, cross-access, unified-circulation, and recorded-agreement conditions are met.
    • The County may modify or waive requirements where abutting-property characteristics or layout make unified or shared access impractical.

    one-way driveway width: 10-12 feet (one-way-in or one-way-out driveway) · two-way driveway lane width: 10-12 feet (each lane)

    “If the driveway is a one-way-in or one-way-out drive, then the driveway shall be a minimum width of 10 feet and a maximum width of 12 feet and shall have appropriate signage designating the driveway as a one-way connection.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction or development, including fill and other defined development, in unincorporated areas of special flood hazard within Gilliam County.

    • The ordinance applies to all unincorporated areas of special flood hazards within Gilliam County jurisdiction.
    • A development permit must be obtained before construction or development begins in an area of special flood hazard.
    • The permit covers all structures, including manufactured homes, and all development including fill and other activities.
    • Applications use forms furnished by the County Planning Director and require scaled plans showing the nature, location, dimensions, and elevations; lowest-floor elevation; flood-proofing elevation; professional certification for nonresidential flood-proofing; and a description of any watercourse alteration or relocation.
    • The County Planning Director administers the section and reviews whether required federal, state, and local approvals have been obtained and whether the site is in the floodway.

    special flood hazard probability: >= 1 percent or greater annual chance

    “A Development Permit shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any area of special flood hazard established in Subsection C of this section.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Building-permit applications for projects in Gilliam County requiring county land-use and zoning approval.

    • Gilliam County Planning Department zoning approval is required before issuance of permits.
    • On-site sewage permitting by Umatilla County Public Health Environmental Health Division is required if applicable.
    • The official Boardman process accepts complete applications in person, by mail, email, fax, or through Oregon ePermitting.
    “The City of Boardman administers the building program for Gilliam County.”

Oregon rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Residential construction in Gilliam County under Oregon's statewide residential building-code requirements.

    • A permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, or move a residential building or structure.
    • Specified exemptions apply, including certain nonhabitable detached accessory structures under 200 square feet and less than 15 feet high, and other listed minor work.
    • Work exempt from a building permit may still require mechanical, electrical, plumbing, or land-use approval.
    • The state page states that work not meeting all parameters of a particular exemption requires a local building permit.

    detached nonhabitable accessory structure area exemption: < 200 square feet (Must also be one story, less than 15 feet measured from floor to average roof height.) · deck or porch height exemption: <= 30 inches above adjacent grade (Applies to the listed permit-exempt porch or deck work.)

    “A building permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, or move a residential building or structure.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, movement, or occupancy change of buildings or structures, and regulated gas or mechanical-system work, within the scope of the Oregon Residential Specialty Code.
      “Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move or change the occupancy of a building or structure [...] shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
    • Not required (with conditions) — A nonhabitable, one-story detached accessory structure not intended for sleeping or permanent cooking, within the Oregon Residential Specialty Code scope.
      “Permits shall not be required for the following: Building: 1. Nonhabitable One-story detached accessory structures, not intended to be used for sleeping or containing permanent cooking provisions, provided that the building area, or floor area where a roof is not present, does not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 m2) and does not exceed a height of 15 feet (4572 mm) measured from grade plane to the average height of the highest roof surface, or where a roof is not present to the highest point of the structure.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Owner-built single-family residences and adjacent auxiliary structures in Gilliam County where the owner intends to occupy the structures.

    • The owner must be the title owner or contract purchaser shown on the last available complete assessment roll.
    • The owner must not have used the exemption during the five years before applying.
    • The structural components must be constructed entirely by the owner, or by the owner and unpaid friends or relatives.
    • The exemption applies only to structural-code requirements for ceiling heights, room sizes, and maintenance of specific temperature levels.
    • A building permit is still issued and must note whether the owner-built dwelling or outbuilding complies with the exempted requirements.
    • If the structure does not comply, the owner-builder must file a copy of the building permit with the county clerk for permanent deed recording and provide a sufficient property description.
    • Noncompliance with the recording provision does not affect conveyances of interests in the property.

    prior exemption lookback: 5 years (Owner must not have taken advantage of the exemptions during the five years before applying.)

    “Owner-built dwellings and outbuildings shall be exempt from any requirements of the structural code for ceiling heights, room sizes and the maintenance of specific temperature levels in those structures.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Owner-built single-family residences and adjacent auxiliary structures in Oregon where the structural components are constructed entirely by the owner intending to occupy the structures, or by the owner with unpaid assistance from friends and relatives.
      “Owner-built dwellings and outbuildings shall be exempt from any requirements of the structural code for ceiling heights, room sizes”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Commercial construction, reconstruction, alteration, and repair governed by the Oregon Structural Specialty Code statewide.

    • The 2025 Oregon Structural Specialty Code is based on the 2024 International Building Code, International Fire Code, and International Existing Building Code.
    • Administrative provisions are effective and mandatory October 1, 2025.
    • Construction provisions were effective October 1, 2025 with a six-month phase-in period and became mandatory April 1, 2026.
    • During the phase-in period, use of either the 2022 OSSC or 2025 OSSC was permitted.

    administrative provisions effective and mandatory: 2025-10-01 · construction provisions effective: 2025-10-01 (six-month phase-in period) · construction provisions mandatory: 2026-04-01

    “Construction provisions: [...] Mandatory April 1, 2026”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building-code adoption applicable in Gilliam County, including one- and two-family dwellings, townhouses, and structures outside the residential-code scope.
      “The division works with building officials, technical committees, advisory boards, and the public to adopt, amend, and interpret the Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC). This code applies to the construction, reconstruction, and repair of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Oregon State Building Code specialty codes administered statewide by the Oregon Building Codes Division.
      “The Building Codes Division adopts, amends, and interprets specialty codes that make up the Oregon State Building Code.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction, reconstruction, and repair of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses governed by the Oregon Residential Specialty Code statewide.
      “2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC) [...] Based on 2021 International Residential Code (IRC)”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction or work within the Oregon Residential Specialty Code scope for which a permit is required.

    • The work must remain accessible and exposed until approved.
    • The permit applicant must cause the work to remain accessible and exposed for inspection.
    • The permit holder or authorized agent must notify the building official when work is ready for inspection and provide access and means for required inspections.
    • Work may not proceed beyond each successive inspection point without the building official's approval.
    • A final inspection must occur after all work required by the building permit is completed.
    “Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the building official and such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes until approved.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Work performed under a residential building permit in Gilliam County.
      “Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the building official and such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes until approved.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    A new residential dwelling or townhouse within the Oregon Residential Specialty Code scope before occupancy.

    • A building official must issue the certificate in the Division-established form and format before occupancy, unless the official issues a temporary certificate of occupancy.
    • Before issuance, the general contractor or owner issued the structural permit must provide the building official contact and relevant license information for the general contractor and each electrical, HVAC, and plumbing contractor that performed work.
    • Certificates of occupancy are not required for permit-exempt work under R105.2 or for accessory buildings or structures.
    • A building official may revoke a certificate or temporary certificate when the residential dwelling or townhouse violates applicable law posing a health-and-safety threat; revocation must be written and state its basis.
    “Prior to occupancy of a new residential dwelling or townhouse the building official must issue a certificate of occupancy in the form and format established by the Division, unless a temporary certificate of occupancy is issued by the building official.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Occupancy of a new residential dwelling or townhouse in Gilliam County.
      “Prior to occupancy of a new residential dwelling or townhouse the building official must issue a certificate of occupancy in the form and format established by the Division, unless a temporary certificate of occupancy is issued by the building official.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Statewide Oregon zoning data published by the Department of Land Conservation and Development; the data represents local zoning and does not itself replace local zoning ordinances or maps.

    • The source identifies the dataset as Statewide Zoning - 2023.
    • The source provides downloads through GEOHub and a GIS service.
    • Local governments remain the relevant authorities for parcel-level zoning determinations and ordinance administration.

    dataset year: 2023

    “Statewide Zoning - 2023 Downloads available from GEOHub Service”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    A permanent dwelling that is 400 square feet or less in area in Oregon.

    • The dwelling must comply with the Small Home Specialty Code.
    • The state construction standards must allow sleeping lofts and ladders or alternate tread devices as the primary means of egress from a sleeping loft.
    • This is a state construction-code condition; it does not itself establish that a particular local land-use jurisdiction must allow the dwelling on a parcel.

    maximum dwelling area: <= 400 square feet

    “In accordance with ORS 455.616, dwellings 400 square feet (37.16 m2) in area or less shall comply with the Small Home Specialty Code.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Use of composting toilets and related graywater systems in Oregon.

    • A composting toilet does not eliminate all household water; plumbing fixtures still need connection to an approved septic system.
    • If used with a graywater reuse system, both the graywater reuse system and septic system require a DEQ permit.
    • The graywater reuse system must be offline during wet-weather months or when discharges could create a public nuisance.
    • Material removed from a composting toilet must be buried under 12 inches of soil.
    • Buildings within a sewer district still need a sewer connection.

    burial depth for removed composting-toilet material: 12 inches · maximum reduced drainfield capacity mentioned by DEQ: two-thirds (The source says the drainfield may be approved for a smaller capacity, as much as two-thirds the size.)

    “Composting toilets don't eliminate all water generated in a home and therefore you will need to be hooked up to an approved wastewater treatment system.”
  • Well permitRequired

    A property owner constructing, altering, converting, or abandoning a water-supply well in Oregon without being a licensed and bonded Water Supply Well Constructor.

    • A licensed and bonded Water Supply Well Constructor is exempt from the landowner-permit requirement stated on the page.
    • The permit, permit fee, and bond or irrevocable letter of credit must be obtained before work begins.
    • The application requires owner and surety information, proposed well location, proposed use, type of work, and a Department-approved well design plan.
    • The bond or irrevocable letter of credit is $10,000 and the permit fee is $550.
    • Only the owner of record, an immediate family member of the owner of record, or a full-time employee whose main duties are other than well construction may operate a drilling machine under a landowner permit.
    • The permit expires six months after issuance; a water-well report is due within 30 days after permit expiration or well completion, whichever occurs first.
    • The Department may deny a permit if the proposed work presents a health threat, health hazard, contamination source, or groundwater waste source.

    bond or irrevocable letter of credit: 10000 USD · permit fee: 550 USD · permit expiration: 6 months · water-well report deadline: 30 days (after permit expiration or well completion, whichever occurs first)

    “The Water Resources Commission requires a permit [...] for each water supply well constructed, altered, converted, or abandoned by a landowner”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Construction, alteration, conversion, or abandonment of water supply wells in Gilliam County under Oregon statewide rules.
      “The Water Resources Commission requires a permit, permit fee, and bond or irrevocable letter of credit, for each water supply well constructed, altered, converted, or abandoned by a landowner, unless the landowner is a licensed and bonded Water Supply Well Constructor. The landowner permit and bond shall be obtained prior to beginning work on a well.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    A building located within an Oregon sewer district, including a building using a composting toilet.

    • The source specifically addresses buildings within a sewer district.
    • A composting toilet does not eliminate the sewer-connection requirement.
    “What if my building is within a sewer district? Your building will still need a sewer connection.”
  • Shed and accessory-building permit exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Nonhabitable one-story detached accessory structures not intended for sleeping or permanent cooking provisions, within the Oregon Residential Specialty Code scope.

    • The building area, or floor area where a roof is not present, must not exceed 200 square feet and the structure must not exceed 15 feet in height measured from grade plane to the average height of the highest roof surface, or to the highest point where no roof is present.
    • On a parcel not less than 2 acres, the building-area or floor-area limit may be increased to 400 square feet.
    • The permit exemption does not authorize work that violates the code or other laws, does not limit a local municipality's authority to apply or enforce its ordinances, and does not eliminate separately required plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permits.
    • All new construction and substantial improvements, including certain permit-exempt work, must minimize flood damage under the code, FEMA regulations, and ASCE 24 in areas determined by the floodplain administrator.
    • Local land-use and zoning requirements remain applicable; Oregon's statewide planning program calls on each city and county to adopt and maintain an implementing zoning code.

    maximum building or floor area: <= 200 square feet (May be increased to 400 square feet where the structure is on a parcel not less than 2 acres in area.) · maximum height: <= 15 feet (Measured from grade plane to average height of the highest roof surface, or to the highest point where no roof is present.) · increased maximum building or floor area: <= 400 square feet (Only where the structure is located on a parcel not less than 2 acres in area.)

    “does not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 m2)”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Oregon state building-code permit fees and fee methodologies, including residential and commercial electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and structural work.

    • Residential electrical new-construction fees are calculated by square footage or, for alterations and repairs, by services, feeders, and branch circuits.
    • Residential plumbing new-construction fees are based on kitchens and bathrooms; alteration and repair fees are based on fixtures.
    • Residential mechanical fees are calculated per appliance or equipment.
    • Residential structural new-construction fees use the ICC Valuation Table current as of April 1 of each year; alteration and repair fees use fair market value as determined by the building official.
    • Commercial plumbing fees are based on fixtures; commercial mechanical fees use equipment valuation and installation costs; commercial electrical fees use services, feeders, and branch circuits.
    • Commercial structural new-construction valuation is the greater of the ICC Valuation Table current as of April 1 of each year or the applicant's stated value; otherwise the building official determines valuation when the construction or occupancy type does not fit the table.
    • Local fee schedules and additional departmental fees may also apply.

    residential structural valuation table date: April 1 of each year · commercial structural valuation: greater of ICC Valuation Table or applicant-stated value (when construction is new/addition) · alteration or repair valuation: fair market value determined by building official (residential structural work)

    “Fees calculated per appliance/equipment. [...] Fees based on fair market value as determined by the building official.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Oregon counties adopting and revising comprehensive plans, zoning, subdivision, and other land-use ordinances applicable to county land, including unincorporated areas.

    • The statutory text states an exception for ORS 527.722.
    • Plans and related ordinances may be adopted and revised part by part or by geographic area.
    • Zoning, subdivision, and other ordinances or regulations must be designed to implement the adopted county comprehensive plan.
    • Before a county zoning ordinance has legal effect, the governing body or planning commission must conduct one or more public hearings and publish 10 days' advance public notice; additional notice requirements apply to certain zone changes under ORS 215.223.
    “Except as provided in ORS 527.722, the county governing body shall adopt and may from time to time revise a comprehensive plan and zoning, subdivision and other ordinances applicable to all of the land in the county. The plan and related ordinances may be adopted and revised part by part or by geographic area.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Oregon counties administering and enforcing building inspection programs, including issuance and enforcement of building permits for residential construction in areas outside incorporated cities.

    • A county building inspection program is subject to the state building code and the statutory building-inspection-program framework.
    • If a county does not notify the director, or notifies the director that it will not administer and enforce a building inspection program, the director must arrange administration and enforcement through a municipality, other person, state employees, or state agencies; permit and other fees arising therefrom are paid into the Consumer and Business Services Fund.
    • A building inspection program is administered for four-year periods under ORS 455.150; the governing body must provide required notices to the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services.
    • The program must specify cooperation with the State Fire Marshal or designee and how a uniform fire code will be considered in design and construction review.
    • The cited archive is the 2015 Oregon Revised Statutes edition; the current official ORS 455 page was identified but returned a 403 error during retrieval.
    “If a city does not notify the director, or notifies the director that it will not administer the building inspection program, the county or counties in which the city is located shall administer and enforce the county program within the city in the same manner as the program is administered and enforced outside the city, except as provided by subsection (6) of this section.”

Inside cities and towns in Gilliam County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational-vehicle parks and RV occupancy within Condon city limits.

    • Condon defines a recreational-vehicle park as an area for picnicking or overnight recreational-vehicle or tent camping.
    • Condon recreational-vehicle parks are not intended for residential occupancy.
    • The facility must be licensed by the state.

    maximum stay: <= 180 consecutive days

    “Such RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARKS as defined are not intended for residential occupancy. The maximum stay shall be limited to 180 consecutive days. The facility shall be licensed by the state.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Temporary occupation of RVs on developed residential lots for worker housing under Arlington Resolution No. 748.
      “new temporary RV occupancy permits will not be issued.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary recreational-vehicle or tent camping in Condon recreational-vehicle parks.

    • Condon recreational-vehicle parks are for picnicking or overnight recreational-vehicle or tent camping.
    • They are not intended for residential occupancy.
    • The facility must be licensed by the state.

    maximum stay: <= 180 consecutive days

    “RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARK. Any area designed to establish, operate, manage, or maintain the same for picnicking or overnight recreational vehicle or tent camping. This includes areas open to use free of charge or through a payment of a tax or fee or by virtue of rental, lease, license, membership, association, or common ownership. This further includes, but is not limited to, those areas divided into two or more lots, parcels, units, or other interests for the purposes of such use. Such RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARKS as defined are not intended for residential occupancy. The maximum stay shall be limited to 180 consecutive days. The facility shall be licensed by the state.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured-home placement and permanent-residence occupancy on individual lots in specified Condon residential zones.

    • Only manufactured homes used as permanent residences are permitted.
    • The home must be multi-sectional and enclose at least 1,000 square feet.
    • The home must have a foundation of sufficient strength, be reviewed and approved by the designated Building Official, have a pitched roof, and use compatible exterior siding and roofing.
    • The home may not be sited adjacent to a structure listed on the Register of Historic Landmarks and Districts.

    minimum floor area: >= 1000 square feet

    “used as permanent residences are permitted.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Structural building permits for Gilliam County projects administered by the City of Boardman.

    • Fees depend on the permit category and the valuation used for the project.
    • Valuation includes all construction work and listed permanent equipment, and includes contractor profit.
    • Valuation is calculated using the City's valuation tables multiplied by square footage or the applicant's stated amount, whichever is greater.
    • Residential schedule entries are not treated here as a single flat new-construction permit fee.
    • The City of Boardman states that structural permit fees use the International Code Council Building Valuation Table.

    valuation basis: total value of permitted construction work and permanent equipment, including contractor profit (Land, site improvements, parking lots, site utilities, and landscaping are not stated in the fee-schedule excerpt and are not characterized here.) · commercial plan review: 65 percent (of the permit fee) · fire and life safety plan review: 40 percent (of the permit fee) · Oregon surcharge: 12 percent (of the permit fee) · seismic fee: 1 percent (of the permit fee)

    “Our office issues building permits for the City of Boardman, the City of Irrigon, Morrow County, and Gilliam County. [...] Structural Permit fees are calculated using the International Code Council's Building Valuation Table [...] Building permit fees are calculated on the basis of project valuation.”

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Water rights & wells in Gilliam County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Oregon’s water agency.

Over-appropriated / declining

The aquifer here is over-appropriated and declining. A domestic well is usually still permit-exempt, but long-term supply is a genuine risk.

Household wellExempt — no permit or water right

Single or group domestic groundwater use up to 15,000 gpd is exempt from permitting, but the exemption can be limited inside designated Critical Groundwater Areas.

Limit: 15,000 gpd domestic (plus stockwater and ≤0.5 acre lawn/garden) under ORS 537.545

Oregon Water Resources Department — Exempt Water Uses ↗

Prior-appropriation state (first in time, first in right). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Oregon state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Gilliam County, Oregon

Is Gilliam County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Gilliam County scores 36/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 1,111 people within 15 miles and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 11.4″ of rain a year, in severe drought 22.1% of years and elevated current hazard exposure.

How much does land cost in Gilliam County, Oregon?

Land in Gilliam County runs about $1,338 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Gilliam County?

Gilliam County gets about 11.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 22.1% of years. On water rights, Gilliam County lies in the Ella Butte Groundwater-Limited Area — Classified 1990 over Columbia River Basalt (151 sq mi); 'exempt uses only.' Exempt domestic wells allowed..

How remote is Gilliam County?

A typical private-land location has about 1,111 people within 15 miles and 1,050,539 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Gilliam compares in Oregon

Compare side-by-side →See all 36 Oregon counties ranked →