News

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 June 23, 2021 8:30 am 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.

June 8, 2021 7:44 pm 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 June 3, 2021 9:51 am 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.

May 24, 2021 8:20 am News article

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 May 17, 2021 6:00 am 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.

April 19, 2021 8:00 am 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 April 19, 2021 8:00 am 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.

April 16, 2021 9:00 am 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.

April 15, 2021 7:40 am News article

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 March 30, 2021 1:00 pm Public notice

Members of the public needed to enhance Portland’s cultural and historic legacies; apply by April 15

The City of Portland is seeking applications for an at-large member of the public to serve a four-year term on the Historic Landmarks Commission. The deadline to apply is Thursday, April 15.

Updated March 22, 2021 8:15 am News article

Bureau of Development Services honored with 2021 Hard Hat Safety Award

This annual prize, awarded by the Daily Journal of Commerce, recognizes best practices in promoting safety in construction activity.

Updated March 18, 2021 11:33 am News article

Information about the Development Review Governance Structure Initiative

The six City bureaus responsible for the development review process are undertaking a project to improve cross-bureau decision-making regarding proposed changes and conflicts that impact that process.

March 17, 2021 1:04 pm Newsletter

Notice of Proposed Permanent Administrative Rule for Accessory Short-Term Rental (ASTR) Permit Compliance

The proposed rule establishes procedures for self-certification and inspections demonstrating compliance with Type A ASTR requirements. The proposed rule would make the existing interim rule a permanent rule, with no changes.

Updated March 16, 2021 11:30 am Public notice

Field Issuance Remodel program adapts to meet growing demand for efficient permitting and review of residential projects

The Field Issuance Remodel program offers residential remodeling contractors one point-of-contact to streamline the permitting and inspection process. BDS staff innovated to add more contractors without expanding staffing.

January 22, 2021 11:00 am News article

Updated Policies on Permit Extensions, Abandonment and Expiration, and Reactivation Requests and New Online Requests

The program guide for policies on when permits may be extended, when they are abandoned or expire, and when they may be reactivated after expiration has been updated.

Updated January 14, 2021 1:07 pm Public notice

Apply for building or trade permits anytime through Development Hub PDX

The Bureau of Development Services now offers a faster and easier way to apply for a building or trade permit online through Development Hub PDX.

Updated December 17, 2020 4:45 pm News article

Most BDS permit fees increasing Dec. 1; You can still submit a complete permit application to avoid increases

Many permit fees for the Bureau of Development Services will increase on Dec. 1. Here are guidelines for how to submit a completed building permit application and avoid the fee increases.

Updated November 23, 2020 5:20 pm News article

BDS Adopts Interim Residential Demolition Administrative Rule

Updated October 30, 2020 5:00 pm News article

Social Distancing Guidelines for Restaurant Seating and Retailers

Use outdoor space like a parking lot to help with social distancing and safety. Get zoning and other city code information to use parking lots for outdoor customer seating, services, and to sell merchandise. Use these social distancing guidelines for your outdoor seating, outdoor booths and more.

Updated October 28, 2020 12:30 pm News article