Any building-related activities, such as renovations, repairs, painting, and demolitions, may be subject to additional regulations governing the handling, removal and/or disposal of asbestos and lead-based paint besides the dust and site control measures required in Portland City Code Section 24.55.205:
Asbestos requirements
Metro has screening requirements for various types of construction materials delivered to its transfer stations. Please consult Metro’s website for information on materials that are required to be tested.
If you have questions regarding asbestos and the rules governing renovation, repairs and removal of asbestos-containing material, contact the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality at 503-229-5982 or visit the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Asbestos Information website.
Asbestos abatement or demolition activities must protect the City’s sewer and stormwater systems
Asbestos abatement and structural demolition activities may result in asbestos and lead paint particulates as well as other pollutants. These pollutants are prohibited from entering the city’s stormwater system. However, if authorized, they may be discharged to the sanitary sewer system after approved treatment onsite.
Learn about Environmental Services’ requirements for demolition and asbestos abatement activities and apply for authorization to discharge to the sanitary sewer system.
Report asbestos concerns
You may report any environment-related complaint, including regarding asbestos with the Department of Environmental Quality’s website.
Lead-based paint requirements
For questions regarding lead-based paint requirements for renovation, repair or painting projects done by a contractor, please contact the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) at: 503-934-2229 or visit their website.
For questions regarding lead-based paint requirements for renovation, repair or painting projects not done by a contractor (e.g., a homeowner, property owner doing your own work, rental agency, etc.), please contact the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) at: 971-673-0440 or visit their website.
Report lead-based paint concerns
Construction Contractor Board (CCB) and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) have enforcement authority under Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) § 431.920 to suspend, revoke or modify a certification to perform lead-based paint activities or renovation if the holder of the certification fails to comply with state or federal statutes or regulations related to lead-based paint. Certified firms and renovators in Oregon found to be non-complaint may be liable for civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation, per day.
To file a complaint or report a possible violation of the Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule involving a CCB licensed contractor, contact the Construction Contractors Board at 503-378-4621 or visit the Construction Contractors Board online.
CCB Customer Service Unit: To file a complaint or report a possible violation of the RRP Rule involving an individual not licensed by the CCB (landlords, property management companies, schools and child care facilities), contact the Oregon Health Authority:
- Phone: Lead-Based Paint Program at 971-673-0440
- LeadLine: a toll free phone service at 1-800-368-5060
- E-mail: leadprogram@odhsoha.oregon.gov
Asbestos, lead paint and worker safety
For worker safety issues regarding either asbestos or lead-based paint, please contact OSHA at: 503-229-5910 or visit their website.