News
Follow these guidelines to submit a permit application under current zoning code before July 31, 2021
Changes to the City of Portland's zoning code will go into effect on Aug. 1, 2021. Learn more about how to submit a permit application if you wish to have the current zoning code apply to your project.
Updated News article
Follow these guidelines to submit a permit application under the current fees before June 30, 2021
Beginning July 1, 2021, fees for building permit applications will increase. Follow these guidelines to submit a permit application under the current fees.
Updated News article
Environmental Services proposes revisions to Administrative Rule ENB-4.05 Systems Development Charges for Sewer and Stormwater
Environmental Services is making changes to ENB-4.05 regarding systems development charges for sewer and stormwater. Proposed changes align with citywide initiatives and define new business types for better clarity. The public comment period is now closed.
Updated Public notice
City Council to consider business relief and recovery measures
An ordinance to address business relief and recovery measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic will come before the Portland City Council on Wednesday, June 16.
News article
Talking with Portland Community College (PCC) Building Inspection Technology Students for Building Safety Month
"Training the Next Generation" was a key theme for the International Code Council (ICC) Building Safety Month in 2021. Joe Disciascio, Inspections Supervisor, met with students from the PCC building inspection technology program to talk about what it's like to be an inspector and work for the City.
Blog post
City Council waives design review for exterior lighting, security gates in some commercial areas
On March 3, the Portland City Council approved an emergency ordinance that temporarily makes it easier for businesses to install exterior lighting and security gates at entrances of buildings in design overlay zones. A second ordinance to further help businesses will come to City Council on June 16.
Updated News article
Seeking experienced engineers to advise on structural engineering issues
The Bureau of Development Services seeks interested and experienced structural engineers to serve in one of three positions, each for a three-year term, on the Structural Engineering Advisory Committee. Persons of color are encouraged to apply. Applications are due by Monday, June 14.
News article

Help guide development review in Portland; apply by June 14
The City of Portland is seeking interested persons to serve in one of four positions, each for a three-year term, on the Development Review Advisory Committee. Persons of color are encouraged to apply. The deadline to apply is Monday, June 14.
News article

Prepare your building for a safe reopening
Stagnant water poses health risks. Take these important steps to reduce risks associated with Legionella.
Press release

New features now available in Portland’s electronic plan review system
The City of Portland upgraded its ProjectDox platform for electronic review of development plans, providing easier ways for customers to upload documents and respond to comments.
Updated News article

Code amendments regarding the life of building and other permits effective May 7, 2021
City Council adopted City Code amendments relating to permit extensions, abandonment, expiration, reactivations and voiding. The amendments apply to building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and sign permits, as well as amendments specific to wireless facility permits.
Updated Public notice
City Council unanimously adopts Shelter to Housing Continuum Code Package
Changes expand where homeless shelters are allowed, add a new shelter format (outdoor shelters), and allow group living more broadly as well as occupancy of RVs and tiny houses on wheels.
News article

Proposed Revisions to Administrative Rule ENB-4.29
Environmental Services proposes revisions to Administrative Rule ENB-4.29 for Refunds of Development Review, Sewer Connection, and Lateral Repair Permit Fees and Charges. The public comment period is now closed.
Updated Public notice
City Council to hold public hearing on Portland’s design review process on May 12
Public is invited to testify on the Design Overlay Zone Amendments (DOZA) proposals virtually via Zoom and online via the Map App.
News article
Have questions about development permits and zoning? Schedule a free 15-minute virtual appointment with an expert
A new service offered by the Bureau of Development Services and other permitting bureaus provides free 15-minute virtual appointments with planners, reviewers and permit staff to answer basic questions about development projects.
News article

15- Minute Appointments Replaced Time-Certain Appointments
This service provides an option for Development Services customers who want to obtain information about development. Interested customers can book a 15-minute appointment with a Development Services employee.
Updated News article
Statement on the latest activities with the Zenith Energy Oil Terminal
The Bureau of Development Services approved a certificate of occupancy for three railcar access platforms and a Land Use Compatibility Statement for non-fossil fuel infrastructure for Zenith Energy. Learn more about the City of Portland’s commitment to renewable energy and what comes next.
News article
Customers with residential permits can now look up inspection times on Portland Maps
Customers with residential (1-2 family) building, plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits can view their scheduled inspection times on the day of inspection in a new online system that is easier and more accessible.
News article
Amendments to Oregon Residential Specialty Code and Oregon Structural Specialty Code in effect as of April 1
Learn more about how these changes may affect your permit.
Public notice
Notice of Proposed Permanent Administrative Rule for Intake and Fees for Land Use Processes and Other Planning Services
The proposed rule establishes criteria by which the Director of the Bureau of Development Services will charge, refund or waive fees associated with Land Use Services applications and other Planning Services applications and establish guidelines for intake of applications for land use processes.
Updated Public notice
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