The Oregon Board of Architect Examiners (Board) has laws and rules that prohibit the practice of architecture and use of the architect title by unlicensed individuals. It takes many years of study at an accredited architectural university program, along with advanced training and examinations before a person may become licensed and practice the profession of architecture. To ensure the protection of the public, those seeking to become registered to practice architecture in Oregon must meet established education, experience, training, and examination requirements. Those who do not meet these requirements and/or fail to become registered by this Board cannot use the architect title, nor may they provide, or offer to provide, architectural services in Oregon.

In the State of Oregon, a registered architect is required for all Oregon projects that exceed 4,000 square feet and 20 feet in height. However, there are exceptions to this requirement. Listed below are the types of structures that are exempt from ORS 671.030:

• Single Family Residences (no matter what the size)
• Farm or Agricultural Buildings
• Buildings that have had no structural modifications or changes to occupancy or code related classifications.

Architects registered in Oregon are governed by Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 671 and Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 806 Divisions 1-10 and 20.

There are a wide variety of provisions and prohibitions contained in the rules and statutes. Please refer to the hyperlink entitled "Statutes & Rules" for further definition or clarification.

An important part of being a professional is helping to uphold the high standards of the profession. The regard with which a profession is considered is a direct result of the manner in which those professionals engaged in it conduct their practice. With the title of professional comes the responsibility of ensuring that the high standards of the profession are maintained. This is true for the practice of architecture.

The Board reviews all complaints received, however, they have little to no jurisdiction over fee disputes or contractual issues. If you feel that an architect has disregarded his responsibility to the public by exhibiting incompetence or gross negligence, or the architect has engaged in fraud or deceitfulness, this office encourages you to complete a complaint form and submit it to the Board for their review.

The following link will allow you to download the Board's inquiry-complaint form: OBAE Inquiry/Complaint Form.