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Iconic elk statue will return to downtown Portland

The City of Portland is preparing to bring back the beloved Thompson Elk, which has been safely stored since it was damaged during protests in 2020.

News article


Follow these guidelines to submit a permit application under current zoning code before Feb. 28, 2022

Changes to the City of Portland's zoning code will go into effect on March 1, 2022. Learn more about how to submit a permit application if you wish to have the current zoning code apply to your project.

News article


City Council to discuss ongoing permitting improvement efforts at Jan. 25 work session

The City Council will receive updates from development review bureaus on efforts to improve permitting services and discuss proposed updates to city policies.

News article


Comments requested on proposed administrative rule for Private Rights-of-ways

The Bureau of Development Services seeks public comment on a proposed administrative rule governing private rights-of-ways (Streets, Alleys, Shared Courts, Common Greens and Pedestrian Connections).

Updated Public notice


Public Hearing on Proposed Administrative Rule for Lien Reduction Review Process

The Bureau of Development Services seeks public comment on a proposed administrative rule for its Lien Reduction Review process for properties subject to potential enforcement action under the City's Property Maintenance code. A public hearing will be hosted on December 27, 2021.

Updated Public notice


Changes to Demolition Code Could Affect Your Residential Projects

If you plan to do work involving residential demolitions, additions or alterations, you should be aware of an ordinance that the City Council passed on June 13, 2018, which simplifies some definitions, adds dust control requirements for major alterations using heavy equipment, and makes other techni

Updated News article


Give your views on improving erosion control during construction activity

The City of Portland is updating its erosion control requirements to better manage soils and sediments on construction sites and reduce development impacts on the environment. Your ideas and suggestions on an early draft are welcome.

Updated News article


Now available! Development permits and land use reviews research tool

Research building permits and new development projects online. Get information about commercial permits, facility permits, land use reviews and residential permits now. Metro reports are now available in Portland Maps. Search, filter and sort data and quickly create customized permits reports.

News article


Empowered Neighborhood Program offers resources, creativity in addressing building code violations

Staff from across the Bureau of Development Services, working with other city bureaus and students from Portland Community College, come to the aid of a black disabled homeowner in addressing multiple concerns, saving money and reducing fines.

News article


City of Portland Design Review team’s efforts noted in DeMuro Award for Jim Fisher Volvo restoration

Award citation lists City as partner in helping restore iconic West Burnside building

News article


Deadline extended: Help guide development review in Portland; apply by Oct. 29

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. Applications are accepted through Friday, Oct. 29.

Updated News article


Have a passion for floating structures? Consider applying for the City of Portland’s River Community Advisory Committee

The City of Portland is seeking interested persons to serve in one of three positions, each for a three-year term, on the River Community Advisory Committee. Persons of color are encouraged to apply. Applications are accepted through Wednesday, Nov. 10.

News article


Help review and advise on building code decisions; apply by Oct. 29

The City of Portland seeks two people to each serve a three-year term on the Building Code Board of Appeals. Persons of color are encouraged to apply. Applications are due no later than Friday, Oct. 29.

News article


New State Building Codes

The State of Oregon’s Building Codes Division (BCD) released new editions of the Oregon Residential Specialty Code, Oregon Electrical Specialty Code and the Oregon Plumbing Code. Any permits issued in 2018 must meet the new code requirements, which took effect on January 1, 2018.

Updated Newsletter


A letter from Rebecca Esau, Director of the Bureau of Development Services, regarding customer feedback on the City’s building permit services

Recently a survey was sent to 1088 customers who applied for building permits from January through June 2021, asking about their experiences and seeking ideas for improvement; 282 customers responded. Here is BDS Director Esau’s letter to survey recipients.

News article


Updates to online permitting services and plans for re-entry to the Development Services Center

Learn more about improvements to online permitting services and plans to welcome customers back to the City of Portland’s Development Services Center.

News article


No administrative appeals considered during week after Thanksgiving, Christmas 2021

There will not be a Weekly Administrative Appeals meeting during the weeks of November 29 and December 27, 2021.

News article


Joint City Statement on Hate Crimes

Our core values as a City include anti-racism and equity. Every Portlander and everyone visiting our city deserves to be welcomed and to feel that they belong. They should encounter a Portland free of bias and hate, where they do not fear for their safety and security.

Press release


ePlans Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions by ePlans users.

Blog post


New 2021 Oregon Energy Efficiency Specialty Code replaces 2019 Oregon Zero Energy Ready Commercial Code on Oct. 1

The Oregon Building Codes Division recently adopted the new 2021 Oregon Energy Efficiency Specialty Code (OEESC).

News article