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Project guide for food carts

Service
Share information about your project, and we’ll give you information you need to get a permit.

You can complete this form in about 10 minutes.

Property Details

Begin typing to see a list of possible address matches in the Portland metro area, then select one.

Find an address to begin using this guide. It must be in an area that's managed by the Portland Permitting & Development bureau.

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Property ID: 
Base zone 

Address and zoning data provided by PortlandMaps.com  

Property Details

Information provided by PortlandMaps.
Will you be adding 2 or more carts to the site?
Will this project include building or installing a permanent structure?
A permanent structure is something built to stay in place, like a patio or seating area, or new walls in a warehouse space.
Will this project involve making improvements to or repurposing an existing building on the property that people will be inside of?
This means fixing up, remodeling, or changing how an existing building is used.
Will this project change how the space is used?
This could mean using the space for a new purpose, such as changing an office into a home or a garage into a shop.
Will the number of people allowed in the building change?
For example, this could mean adding more seating in a restaurant or creating more space for workers.
Will this project include anchoring or building into the site?
Anchoring means attaching something firmly into the ground or structure, such as posts, poles, or foundations.
Will this project include adding a drive-through feature?
A drive-through is a lane where people stay in their car to get service, like at a bank or coffee shop.
Will this project include re-striping a parking lot?
Re-striping means painting or repainting the lines that mark parking spaces.
Will this project include any electrical work?
This includes adding, moving, or removing things like outlets, lights, or wiring.
Will this project include any plumbing work?
This includes installing, moving, or removing pipes, drains, or fixtures like sinks and toilets.
Will this project include connecting to the city water or sewer?
Will this project include any mechanical work?
This includes work on heating, cooling, or ventilation systems like furnaces, air conditioners, ducts, rooftop units, or walk-in coolers.
Will this project include the use of a propane tank?
A propane tank is a container that holds fuel for things like heating, cooking, or equipment.
Which of these best describes your tank size?
You can usually find the size of the tank on the tank itself or in the purchase details.
Will this project include the use of a tent?
A tent could be for events, outdoor sales, or temporary shelter.
Will this project include the use of a portable A-board sign on the sidewalk or property?
An A-board sign is a fold-out sign shaped like the letter "A" that stands on the ground and can be moved around.
Do you need to prune any trees (branch or root) in the right-of-way?
The public right-of-way is shared space next to streets, like sidewalks, planting strips, road shoulders, or alleys.

Disclaimer

This form gives guidance based on your answers. The results are preliminary and are not a permit. The City of Portland may ask for more information at any point in the permitting process. If there is any difference between this form and the City's official publications, the publications control. If you have technical issues or questions about the form, contact us at ppd@portlandoregon.gov.

Your project guide

We've created a guide to help you follow the City of Portland's building rules based on the details you provided about your project.

  1. You don't need a development permit!

    Based on what you've told us, you don't appear to need a permit for your project. However, your project must meet all other city, state, and county requirements, even if you don't need a permit. Please call 503-823-7300 to verify your zoning situation, or schedule a 15-minute appointment with an expert.

    Learn about the requirements for a single food cart

    Get the list of requirements if you only have one food cart.

    Learn

  2. Talk with zoning and land use experts first

    Before you complete and submit any forms, schedule time to talk to experts at the City of Portland about your project. Based on information you've shared, you'll want to check to see what's possible.

     Zoning and land use (15-minute appointment)

    Speak with the zoning and land use team about zoning, environmental standards, or the appearance of historic sites.

    Schedule

  3. Research your project requirements

    Before you apply for a permit, you'll need to gather some details about your property. Below are forms and other information you'll need to get a permit. You may need additional forms or waivers, depending on the type of project, but this is the starting point.

     Commercial permitting (15-minute appointment)

    Talk with the commercial permitting team to ask questions, check feasibility, and learn what permits or reviews your project may need.

    Schedule

     Fire requirements

    Learn about fire safety rules so you’re ready for your project.

    Learn

     Multnomah County Food Cart Requirements

    Anyone interested in operating a food cart must go through a plan review process before new construction or remodeling can begin.

    Learn

  4. Prepare your application materials

    This step covers what you need to prepare the right materials for your application. We have rules for accepting these materials, so be sure to read them before you submit.

    Prepare your application

  5. Apply, pay, and respond to feedback

    You've researched your project and gathered all the information you need to apply for a permit. This step walks you through submitting your materials and paying your fees. You can also find out what happens after that, and get a timeline for next steps.

    Apply

  6. Get your permit and start work

    It's time to start your project! At this stage, you're almost ready to measure twice, cut once, and start nailing things together. Before you start, there are a few important things to keep in mind.

    Start work

  7. Get inspections

    All permitted projects will need at least one inspection to get approved. Some projects will need inspections before and during the work as well.

    Get inspections

Project address:
Property ID: 
Base zone 
2 or more carts:
Permanent structure:
Building improvements or reuse:
Anchoring/building into site:
Drive-through feature:
Parking lot re-striping:
Electrical work:
Plumbing work:
Mechanical work:
Propane tank use:
Tent use:
Portable A-board sign:
Tree pruning in right-of-way:

Address and zoning data provided by PortlandMaps.com  

Edit details

Project address:
Property ID: 
Base zone 
2 or more carts:
Permanent structure:
Building improvements or reuse:
Anchoring/building into site:
Drive-through feature:
Parking lot re-striping:
Electrical work:
Plumbing work:
Mechanical work:
Propane tank use:
Tent use:
Portable A-board sign:
Tree pruning in right-of-way:

Address and zoning data provided by PortlandMaps.com  

Edit details

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