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Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in Portland, OR (2026)

2 verified zoning overlays & bonuses rules for Portland, Oregon, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Density Bonus Law

Portland lets commercial/mixed-use developers build past base FAR and height limits by providing affordable housing or affordable commercial space under City Code § 33.130.212.

Portland Commercial Zone Density Bonus

Some Restrictions

Portland City Code § 33.130.212

The bonus options allow additional floor area and an increase in height as an incentive for development that provides a public or community benefit. The bonus can be gained in exchange for providing affordable housing or affordable commercial space in conjunction with new development. ... Bonus height and FAR is allowed for development that triggers 33.245, Inclusionary Housing. The amount of b...

Downtown Design Guide

Downtown Portland buildings in the Design overlay zone must pass design review against the Central City Fundamental Design Guidelines before a permit issues, a mandatory approval standard administered by the Bureau of Development Services.

Portland Downtown Design Review Guidelines

Significant Restrictions

Portland City Code § 33.825.065

Design guidelines are the approval criteria used to review new development and alterations to existing development. They ensure that the development builds on the context of the area, contributes to the public realm and promotes quality and long-term resilience within the Design overlay zone. B. Design guidelines. Guidelines specific to a design district have been adopted for the areas shown o...

Looking for Multnomah County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Portland city rules.

Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in Multnomah County