Information
The Portland City Council adopted new land use regulations for the Willamette River (River Plan/South Reach) that went into effect on March 1, 2021.
Updates include the following new tree and vegetation protections:
- Pruning or removal of trees or vegetation within 170 feet of the Willamette River is restricted and only allowed by permit (Zoning Code 33.475.405.L, 33.475.440.K).
- A permit is required for removal of native trees greater than three inches in diameter elsewhere in the River Environmental overlay zone (Zoning Code 33.475.405.L, 33.475.440.K).
- To protect nesting bird habitat, pruning and removal of vegetation is prohibited within 170 feet of the river between April 15 and July 31, except for dead, dying or dangerous trees. (Zoning Code 33.475.440.K.5)
- Replanting is required for all tree or vegetation removal (Zoning Code 33.475.405.L, 33.475.440.K).
Collectively, these protections will protect and strengthen important habitat for birds, fish and other wildlife in the South Reach. The details of these new requirements can be found in the River Overlay Zones chapter (33.475) of the Zoning Code.
Violations? If you think trees or vegetation have been removed without permits, you can make an anonymous report. Visit BDS Code Enforcement website for more information.