Garage conversion rules in Multnomah County, OR — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Converting a garage to living space in unincorporated Multnomah County requires a building permit. If the result is an independent unit with kitchen and bathroom, it qualifies as an ADU under Zoning Code Chapter 39. Structural upgrades and trade permits required.
Building permits from Multnomah County Building Codes Division (503-988-3000) are required for garage conversions to habitable space. Converting a detached garage to an independent dwelling unit with full kitchen and bathroom creates an ADU subject to ADU standards in Zoning Code Chapter 39. Off-street parking impacts must be addressed. Trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical) required. Structural deficiencies must be corrected. ADUs in unincorporated areas inside the UGB are eligible for SDC waivers with a 10-year no-STR covenant.
Unpermitted conversion: building code enforcement. Must bring to code or restore. Safety violations: immediate correction.
Multnomah County, OR
Multnomah County has no countywide leaf blower ordinance. Portland adopted a phased gas leaf blower ban under City Code Title 18 and Ordinance 191370 (2022),...
Multnomah County, OR
Commercial vehicles on county-maintained roads in unincorporated Multnomah County are subject to Oregon state commercial vehicle regulations (ORS Title 59, O...
Multnomah County, OR
Driveways in unincorporated Multnomah County that access county roads require an approach permit from Multnomah County Land Use and Transportation. Vehicles ...
Multnomah County, OR
Multnomah County does not have a specific RV parking ordinance for unincorporated areas beyond Oregon state law. Oregon state law (ORS 197.493) addresses RV ...
Multnomah County, OR
Parking on county-maintained roads in unincorporated Multnomah County is governed by Oregon state traffic laws and county road rules. Abandoned vehicles may ...
Multnomah County, OR
Multnomah County enforces abandoned vehicle rules under MCC 14.700 on county roads and unincorporated areas. Portland PCC 16.30 applies within city limits. O...
See how Multnomah County's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.