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Do e-zone regulations apply to your project?
Look up your site to see if any part of your project or affected trees are in an e‑zone. If so, check whether your work is exempt before starting.
Step 1: Know where the e‑zone is on your property
- Go to PortlandMaps.com
- Search your property address using the magnifying glass icon.
- Select Permits & Zoning.
- Select the Zoning & Districts button.
- In the Overlay row, a "c" or "p" indicates the property contains an e-zone.
- On the map, the lines show which parts of the property contain the "c" or "p" e-zones.
- Check your project plans. Will any part of your project be in an e-zone?
- If work stays completely outside the zone (including impacts to trees in the e‑zone), the regulations do not apply.
- If any portion of your project area (including trees) is in an e‑zone, continue to step 2.
Types of e‑zones
- Environmental Conservation (c): Allows limited, environmentally sensitive development.
- Environmental Protection (p): Only allows development in rare circumstances.
Environmental zones have two parts:
- Transition Area: The outer 25 feet acts as a buffer.
- Resource Area: Contains the protected natural resource.
Step 2: Determine if your project is regulated
Unless your work qualifies for an exemption, e-zone regulations apply to:
- Development (ex., new construction or additions)
- Topography changes like grading or filling
- Removing, cutting, mowing, or clearing native vegetation listed on the Portland Plant List
- Tree planting or removal
- Resource enhancement projects
- Land divisions, property line adjustments, and replats
- Right‑of‑way dedications and expansions
Get the full list: Environmental Zones 33.430.070.
Step 3: Check if your project is exempt
Some activities are not subject to e-zone regulations, as long as there are no additional impacts, such as tree removal.
Examples include:
- Basic maintenance and repair of existing structures or utilities
- Removing nuisance plants
- Maintenance of existing gardens or lawns
Get the full list: Environmental Zones 33.430.080.
Make sure: contact us!
Do not assume your project is exempt. Unpermitted work may result in enforcement action.
If you think your project might be exempt,
- Schedule a 15‑minute appointment with a city planner
- Appointment type: Environmental, river, or greenway regulations and reviews
- Call 503‑823‑7300
- Request a call back from a city planner.
Next
If your work impacts an e-zone and is not exempt, your project must meet development standards.