Multnomah County, OR Building Setbacks & Zoning: Setback Rules (2026)

Portland City Code Title 33 Chapter 33.110 (Single-Dwelling Zones) establishes setbacks for R20/R10/R7/R5/R2.5 residential zones. Typical standards: front setback matches 'building line' based on neighboring structures (often 10-20 feet), side setbacks are 5 feet minimum but typically averaged against building height, and rear setbacks are 5-10 feet. The Residential Infill Project (RIP) adopted in 2021 and effective August 2021 modified setbacks to facilitate duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes under Oregon HB 2001 middle housing mandates. Portland's Base Zone Setbacks often allow corner lots special treatment, and eaves/cornices/awnings can encroach up to 2 feet into required setbacks. Gresham Development Code Article 5 sets LDR/MDR/HDR setbacks typically 15/5/15 feet. Troutdale and Fairview have similar patterns. Unincorporated Multnomah County MCC 39.4500 establishes setbacks for Rural Residential (30/10/30 typical) and MUA-20/EFU zones (larger). Variances require an adjustment application with notice to neighbors and Planning Commission hearing. Exclusive Farm Use and Commercial Forest Use parcels have larger minimum setbacks to protect farm/forest operations. Building permits verify setback compliance at plan review and final inspection.