Construction Frequently Asked Questions

Construction season can be a busy time of year in West Linn. The nice weather brings out residents, developers, and contractors to work on public works and development projects. City staff often hear similar concerns about these projects, so this page aims to provide answers to some of these frequently asked questions. If you can't find an answer to your question here, feel free to contact Public Works at 503-722-5500.

What are the work hours for construction?

Construction work hours are 7 am to 7 pm on Monday through Friday and 9 am to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. This comes from West Linn Municipal Code Section 5.487(4)(d).

Is this contractor allowed to work in the right-of-way?

Any work in the public right-of-way or public utility easement requires a public works permit. This comes from West Linn Municipal Code Section 3.250. If a contractor does not have a permit, they can obtain one from the City's Public Works Permit page. 

Why are flaggers directing traffic in the street?

Construction often results in disruptions to traffic because contractors need to access utilities or streets for their work. All construction projects in the right-of-way are required to provide a traffic control plan for their work zone. This comes from the West Linn Municipal Code Section 3.285. Construction work zones should accomodate all street users, including people walking, biking, and driving. Emergency vehicles are always allowed through work zones and school buses, garbage trucks, and post office vehicles are generally allowed through work zones or are accomodated by the traffic control plan. If you have a concern about work zone accomodations, please contact Public Works at 503-722-5500.

What does it mean when my street is posted with a "Local Access Only" sign?

Occasionally, streets may be closed to more quickly and efficiently accomplish construction projects. These street closures generally require the City Manager's approval. The City or contractors will be required to post a "Local Access Only" sign to signal this closure as part of their traffic control plan. If your home address is located on the street for the closure or it is on street that is only accessible from the closed street, you will be allowed to access your home. If you are driving through the neighborhood or have another way to access your home from a different street, you will likely be detoured to an adjacent route. Emergency vehicles will always be allowed through work zones, even with a "Local Access Only" street closure. The City appreciates your cooperation to help minimize the impacts of construction schedule and budget.

What construction is happening in my neighborhood?

The City often has several construction projects going on throughout the year. Visit the City's project page at to keep up-to-date with what is happening in your neighborhood. Contact the project manager listed on the project page if you have specific questions or concerns about the project. Project schedules are subject to change and can be impacted by factors oustide of the City's or contractor's control, such as traffic congestion on local freeways and streets, equipment breakdown, inclement weather, and subcontractor schedules.

Why are there paint lines on my street or yard?

It's likely that these paint lines are locates for existing utilities. In Oregon, contractors are required to notify utility operators prior to beginning construction and allow time for the operator to locate and indicate where the utilities exist. This comes from the Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 952. The locates are typically painted on with spray paint and each color signifies a specific type of utility. Occasionally, locators will need to access front and side yards to access public utility easements. If you need to call for a locate yourself or want to see who submitted a locate you can visit the online request database at: http://www.callbeforeyoudig.org/oregon/index.asp.

Why is there dust in the air or dirt in the street from construction?

All construction projects are responsible for managing erosion and controlling sediment at their work sites.  This includes airborne dust and rocks or debris that enters the street. This comes from West Linn Municipal Code Section 8.105(1) and the Public Works Design Standards Section 2.0060. If you believe a work site is not managing its erosion and controlling sediment adequately, please contact Public Works at 503-722-5500.

Why is that contractor running water from the fire hydrant ?

Contractors should not be running water from a fire hydrant without permission and direction from the Water Division. The City has two fill-up sites, located on Clark Street and 8th Avenue, that contractors may use to fill up with water. Please contact Public Works at 503-722-5500 if you believe someone is improperly taking water from a hydrant.

Why are they cutting down that tree?

Occasionally construction projects and new developments must remove trees to make space for new streets or buildings. A permit must be obtained to remove any tree in West Linn. This comes from West Linn Municipal Code Section 8.610. The Parks & Recreation Department administers Tree Removal Permits. Visit their website for more information.