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About Us

Overview

The Oregon State Board of Architect Examiners (OSBAE) protects the health, safety, and welfare of the public through the registration and regulation of the practice of architecture in Oregon.

This page provides information about:
  • OSBAE's mission
  • Board history
  • Board membership structure
  • Agency staffing
  • The Board's semi-independent status

Mission

The mission of the Oregon State Board of Architect Examiners is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public through the registration and regulation of the practice of architecture in Oregon.

Board History
The Oregon State Board of Architect Examiners was established by Oregon statute in 1919.

At the time of its creation, five Board members were responsible for enforcing Oregon laws governing the practice of architecture. Initially, all support services were provided by an elected Board member.

In 1977, the Oregon Legislature expanded Board representation by adding public members.

Board Composition

Today, the Board consists of seven members:
  • Five registered architects who are Oregon residents
  • Two members of the general public
Board members help oversee architectural regulation and support the Board's mission to protect the public.

Agency Staff

OSBAE staff support the Board's regulatory and administrative responsibilities.
The agency's staff includes:
  • Executive Director
  • Investigator
  • Fiscal Analyst
  • Registration Specialist
The Oregon Department of Justice provides legal services.

Semi-Independent Status

During the 1997 legislative session, Oregon established a pilot program to evaluate whether certain professional and occupational licensing boards could operate more effectively as semi-independent agencies.

The Oregon State Board of Architect Examiners was one of five agencies selected to participate in the pilot program.

Under the semi-independent model, the Board gained authority over:
  • Personnel administration
  • Purchasing
- Contracting
  • Banking
- Investments
  • Budgeting
The Board implemented administrative and operational improvements designed to:
  • Increase productivity
  • Protect the public
  • Improve customer service
  • Better serve stakeholders

Legislative Approval

Following the pilot program, the Oregon Legislature approved the semi-independent governance model during the 1999 legislative session.

The Board continues to operate under this structure today.

Contact Information

Oregon State Board of
Architect Examiners
205 Liberty Street NE, Suite A
Salem, OR 97301

Email: architectboard@osbae.oregon.gov
Phone: 503-763-0662

Please include your registration number when corresponding with the Board regarding registration matters.

Office Hours

Monday through Thursday
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time
Staff work remotely on Fridays.