City services

Quick links to applications for building permits, trade permits and zoning permits. Get step-by-step instructions for how to apply for a permit. Find out what to include with your application to make sure it is complete. Then, apply for a permit online.

This application must accompany requests for building permits, site development permits and zoning permits. You can find quick links to the separate electrical permit, mechanical permit and the plumbing permit application forms and the simple erosion control requirements form, too.

The Down Payment Assistance Loan is designed with favorable terms to help first-time homebuyers purchase a home in Portland’s Interstate Corridor and Lents Town Center Urban Renewal Areas. The Down Payment Assistance Loan is a second mortgage loan funded by the Portland Housing Bureau.

Homeowners who live in the Interstate Corridor or the Lents Town Center Urban Renewal Areas (URAs) may be eligible for a no-interest loan of up to $40,000 to fund repairs, like a leaky roof, or electrical and plumbing issues. Households must income-qualify (see Income Guidelines).

Under specific situations outlined in the policy and the Administrative Rules, a rental unit may be eligible for an exemption from mandatory renter relocation assistance. Carefully review the exemption criteria and administrative rules before applying.

Relocation assistance is paid to the tenant and triggered by the specific events listed in the Administrative Rules. The landlord must notify PHB within 30 days by submitting a Notice of Relocation Payment form.

Have questions about rentership policy and regulations in Portland, such as Mandatory Relocation Assistance? Contact the RSO Helpdesk. We provide general information on tenant-landlord law, renter protections, referrals to community agencies, and resources for legal help and other direct services.

If you have a sewer backup in your home or business or you notice sewage being released into the environment, call us to report it.

Report violations like construction work without a permit, unpermitted businesses, disabled vehicles on private property, property maintenance danger or nuisances, zoning violations and more to the City of Portland. Check on the status of a report you already made.