Floating structures

The portions of floating structures that are above the float decking are subject to the same building permit requirements as structures built on land. However, waterborne structures, by their nature, confront a few additional factors that are not present for other structures. Some of these factors include:

• Ensuring building materials are resistant to decay that often results from being close to water
• Ensuring insulation is suitable for damp locations
• Making sure floats that support homes and walkways are built safely with materials that will resist decay
• Making sure moorages are secure under reasonable load conditions and connected to secure pilings
• Additional considerations for plumbing and electrical connections

Where to find more information on construction requirements for floating structures

If you are looking to build a new floating structure or remodel an existing floating structure, and you have questions about what permits will be required and any other development regulations may apply, you can do one of the following:

• If you have not yet applied for permits, please schedule a free 15-minute appointment with a residential or commercial building code reviewer to ask any questions you may have about permits that will be required. When you schedule your appointment, please be sure to note that you wish to discuss requirements for a floating structure.
• If you have a floating structure permit that is currently under review, please refer to your permit as listed in Portland Maps to find contact information for each review group and reach out directly to the assigned plans examiner. You can search for your permit by address or by IVR number.

For further questions, please call 503-823-7300.

The City of Portland's requirements specific to the construction, remodeling and occupancy of floating structures can be found in Title 28 of Portland City Code.

Information about the River Community Advisory Committee

Owners, tenants, residents, and professionals of floating structures have a City advisory committee that advocates for, and advises City leadership on, issues related to floating structures.

The River Community Advisory Committee is comprised of six members who represent a variety of interests related to floating homes and structures. Members are appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the city council for three-year terms. They assist Permitting & Development with the development of procedures and administrative guidelines for implementing the City's floating home regulations. In particular, the Committee provides the director of Permitting & Development with the following guidance:

• Leadership and expertise on issues affecting floating structures
• Feedback on the impact of potential regulations and administrative rules on floating structures, taking into consideration the full range of City goals and objectives
• Recommendations for regulatory, code, and administrative rule changes affecting floating structures
• Monitoring of the application and enforcement of regulations for their effectiveness in achieving the City's goals
• Recommendations on customer service, permitting, process, and compliance improvements
• Service as an advisory board on processes and procedures under Title 28

Members of the River Community Advisory Committee include, but are not limited to, a floating home resident, a marina operator, a floating structures contractor, a design professional, a yacht club member, and an on-the-water business owner. The Committee meets at least twice a year and may have additional meetings as needed. Meetings of the River Community Advisory Committee are open to the public.