For activities that make more noise than our Noise Code allows, or if your construction project takes place outside permitted construction hours, then you will need a noise variance.
Most applications are reviewed within 10 business days.
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Fill out form and mail in
Include fees, by check, made payable to the City of Portland.
Construction noise variance applicationYou should apply for it if your activity pertains to construction and will make more noise than the City code allows.
Noise Variance Application for Construction (148.86 KB)All other noise variance applicationsYou should apply for it if your activity will make more noise than the City code allows.
Noise Variance Application (157.45 KB)City of Portland - Community & Civic LifeNoise Control Office
1221 SW 4th Avenue, Room 110
Portland, OR97204
United States -
Notify public
Public notification is required for a variance. Please check with the Noise Control office to find out about the best way to notify nearby neighbors.
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Review process
Applications are reviewed by the Noise Review board if the event is large or lasts for a year or more (a volunteer group with monthly meetings). The Noise Control office reviews all applications. Applications reviewed by the Noise Control office are reviewed within 10 days when possible. The review process can take up to 45 days when the variance goes before the Noise Review board.
It may be possible to shorten the process if a faster review is needed. There is an additional fee for this, and the Noise Control officer or Noise Review board chair would need enough time to decide that the request is in the City’s best interest. In these cases, The Noise office needs at least three business days to review the application. Applications reviewed by the Noise Review board need to be completed and turned in at least seven business days before the next hearing. For further assistance call the Noise Control office.
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Appeals
To appeal a variance decision to the City Council, the applicant or legal representative, or any person who has submitted oral or written testimony must take these steps:
Notice of the intent to appeal must be submitted in writing to the City Auditor’s office within 10 days of the effective date of the decision.
The notice must identify the decision that is being appealed.
It must include the appellant’s name, address and signature, phone number, relationship to the variance decision action, and a clear reason(s) for the appeal.
When the Auditor receives the appeal, they will schedule a date on the calendar of City Council.
For further assistance call the Noise Control office.