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Information
Get information about landscaping and screening requirements in the City of Portland.
Landscaping requirements include:
- Change as a result of an Adjustment Review, Environmental Review or other Land Use Review
- Drive-through areas
- New residential and commercial development
- Outside development areas (outside storage, display or work areas)
- Parking areas
- Screening of mechanical equipment
- Other regulations relating to landscaping
Note: Tree preservation and planting requirements are in Title 11, Trees.
Where to find landscaping and screening regulations in the Zoning Code
Find regulations in the base zone, overlay zone, plan district or other regulation.
The regulation cites the requirements in Chapter 33.248, Landscaping and Screening most of the time. In turn, parts of Chapter 33.248 refer to other publications and guides.
Other publications in the Zoning Code
Depending on the situation, different types of plants may be planted on a site. The Zoning Code refers to several plant lists. These lists are referenced within the Zoning Code. If any of the Zoning Code provisions that apply to a site refer to one of these lists, you must view the publication to obtain the most accurate detail regarding the landscaping requirements for the site.
Portland Plant List - This publication has a list of native trees, shrubs and ground cover. It also includes a list of plants that listed in Nuisance or Prohibited plants. Many of the landscaping requirements prohibit the use of Nuisance or Prohibited plants. Only Native Portland Plant List plants are allowed in Environmental Zones.
Street Tree List - This publication has information on which trees to plant. It also has information about permitting and maintenance for trees planted in the public right-of-way. Parks maintains this document.
Tree and Landscaping Manual
This publication provides detailed guidance about landscaping requirements. The manual also has information about landscaping regulations in the Zoning Code. This includes interior parking lot landscaping.
Landscaping: Section 1 - Landscaping Regulations and How to Apply Them. Find the table of contents, rules, helpful tips and a worksheet.
Landscaping: Section 2 - Frequently Asked Questions. Read common questions and answers about landscaping requirements. Also find information about plans, permits, inspections and tree-cutting permits.
Landscaping: Section 3 - Landscaping Standards L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, P1. Learn about tree, shrub and groundcover requirements.
Landscaping: Section 4 - Maintenance, Irrigation, Protection, etc. Get information on maintenance and tree protection requirements. Read descriptions of the different plant lists.
Landscaping: Section 5 - Plant Materials and Suggested Plant Lists. Get suggestions for trees, shrubs and ground cover plants that meet landscaping requirements. These lists assist you with choosing plant materials. Projects aren't limited to plants on the lists.
Stormwater Management Manual
For information about landscaping in association with stormwater management facilities and Chapter 17.38 of the Portland City Code, check out the Stormwater Management Manual. Environmental Services maintains this document.
Landscaping upgrades not required for some projects
Until Jan. 1, 2029, certain development projects that involve additions and alterations to existing buildings, with a project value of more than $356,300, may not require landscaping upgrades. New development and changes to a building's use that have more stringent site requirements may still be required to meet current code standards. Additionally, upgrades that are required by an overlay zone or plan district are not included in the paused requirements. Please visit this page to see if this may apply to your project or schedule a free 15-minute appointment to discuss general zoning and land use questions.