Services and Resources for Environment

Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) Urban Forestry staff are available to answer tree questions, provide permit applications, and issue some tree permits during posted hours.
Most developed properties in Portland are connected to the public sewer system, but some properties still use private septic systems. Learn more about when septic systems are allowed and when properties on septic might be required to connect to the City sewer.
Producers of craft fermented beverages such as kombucha, beer, wine, spirits, or other breweries or distillers, are required to apply for a discharge authorization and then to file annual certification forms each year. Find and download the required forms here.
Learn more about the City's specific tree plan requirements. Get a worksheet to help you complete your tree plan. Find out what the City inspector and consulting arborist must agree upon. Learn more about creating a tree project narrative and what that must include. Get help with your tree plan.
Find Cryptosporidium test results and learn how we're changing our water treatment to address Cryptosporidium. If you have a condition that puts you at greater risk from Cryptosporidium in drinking water, find out how you can reduce your risk.
The EPA requires the City to implement amalgam waste management rules for dental practices. All dental practices that discharge wastewater to a Portland-owned wastewater treatment facility must verify that they are in compliance with these rules.
Use PortlandMaps.com for relevant information gathering.
The steps in this chart will help you figure out if you need a permit to remove trees on private property when no development is proposed. Permits from PP&R Urban Forestry and/or the Bureau of Development Services may be required to remove trees on private property.
What is a Street Tree? How can I find out if a tree is a private tree or Street Tree? What is a development permit, what is a non-development permit? Get more information on types of permits or move forward with an application. Report a tree emergency or issue a complaint about a tree.
We test Portland’s drinking water to make sure it meets all state and federal standards. You can see water quality reports and data on this page.
Dust controls may be needed on sites for various activities, including land disturbance, demolition, or material handling. Dust may contain pesticides, heavy metals, bacteria, or other contaminants. Rain can wash dust and its contaminants into the stormwater system or into a river or stream.
Environmental Services has completed repairing a 20-inch diameter pressurized pipe at the base of the Columbia Slough bike/pedestrian bridge north of the Columbia Blvd Wastewater Treatment Plant. Repair of the aging pipe protects public health and the environment.
Learn how to locate and use your emergency water shut-off valve so you can quickly turn off your water if your pipes burst.
Resources to help applicants, grantees, and contractors plan and implement a PCEF Community Responsive Grant project that includes energy efficiency and renewable energy installations.
Waivers and reductions for Tree Code compliance cases.
To be eligible to participate in the Environmental Services Submeter Program a business must submit a completed application.
We are tracking three reports and 17 recommendations at Environmental Services.
Environmental Services and Portland Water offer paid internships to Future Connect Scholarship recipients currently enrolled at Portland Community College (PCC). However, due to COVID-19, no internships are currently available.
Gain valuable work experience and on-the-job training as an intern with Environmental Services. View job descriptions for paid student internships in engineering, maintenance, stormwater management, business administration, and more.