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Portland, OR Building Safety: Lead Paint (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Governing chapter
Title 29, Ch. 29.30
Core rule
residential paint must be lead-free
Applies to
all residential structures citywide
Demolition add-on
lead hazard reduction, Ch. 24.55
Enforcement
vacate order, § 29.60.070

Summary

Portland bans lead-based paint on any residential structure surface and requires hazardous-materials remediation before a property can be occupied.

Any paint(s), veneers, varnishes, or similar pigmented sealers or finishes applied to any surface of a residential structure must be lead free, in compliance with the Federal Consumer Product Safety Commission's 1978 ban on the use of paint containing lead in residential properties.

Source: Portland Permitting & DevelopmentView official code

Full Breakdown

Portland City Code Chapter 29.30, the Housing Maintenance Requirements chapter, applies to all residential property in the city. Section 29.30.260(A) requires that any paint, veneer, varnish, or similar finish applied to a residential structure be lead-free, tracking the federal 1978 lead-paint ban. A property with hazardous levels of lead or other toxic contamination is a Housing Maintenance Code violation and can be ordered vacated under Section 29.60.070.

Violations & Fines

Violations are enforced under Chapter 29.60, Administration and Enforcement; the City Administrator can order a contaminated residential property vacated under Section 29.60.070 until remediation is verified by the authorizing agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Portland's lead paint ban apply to rentals only?
No. Section 29.30.260(A) covers all residential property in the city, not just rental units.
What happens during a demolition?
Separate rules in Chapter 24.55 require exterior lead-painted surfaces be removed and bagged before mechanical demolition begins.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Portland

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All Portland rules

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