Setback Rules: Gresham vs Portland
How do setback rules rules compare between Gresham, OR and Portland, OR?
Gresham has fewer restrictions than Portland.
Gresham, OR
Multnomah County
Multnomah County setbacks are governed by MCC Chapter 39 in unincorporated areas and by each city's zoning code in incorporated areas. Portland's Residential Zones (R2.5, R5, R7, R10, R20) under PCC Title 33.110 have front setbacks of 10-20 feet, side setbacks 5-10 feet, and rear setbacks 10-20 feet depending on zone. Portland's Residential Infill Project (2021) modified front/side setbacks to allow duplexes and middle housing.
View full Gresham rules →Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Portland's Title 33 (Planning and Zoning) establishes setback requirements for all zones. Setbacks vary by zone designation, lot size, and building type. Residential zones (R5, R7, R10, etc.) have front, side, and rear setbacks that determine where structures may be built on a lot.
View full Portland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gresham | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Portland Code | PCC 33.110 R-Zones | - |
| Portland Front | 10-20 ft (varies) | - |
| Portland Side | 5 ft minimum typical | - |
| Portland Rear | 5-10 ft | - |
| RIP 2021 | Middle housing setbacks | - |
| Governing Code | - | Title 33 (Planning and Zoning) |
| Front Setback (R5) | - | Typically 10 feet minimum |
| Side Setback (R5) | - | 5 feet minimum |
| Rear Setback (R5) | - | 5 feet minimum |
| Modifications | - | Adjustments available through BDS |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gresham FAQ
Can I build an addition into my side yard setback?
Only with a Type II Adjustment approved by Portland BDS. Standard side setbacks are 5 feet minimum; adjustments require neighbor notice and findings.
Do ADUs have different setbacks?
Yes. Portland allows detached ADUs with reduced rear setbacks (as low as 3 feet) under PCC 33.205 to support HB 2001 and the RIP.
Portland FAQ
What are the setback requirements in Portland?
Setbacks vary by zone. In the R5 zone (most common single-dwelling zone), typical setbacks are 10 feet front, 5 feet side, and 5 feet rear. Check your property's zoning designation in Title 33 for exact requirements.
Can I build closer to the property line than the setback allows?
Possibly. Portland offers adjustment processes through the Bureau of Development Services for setback modifications. Some accessory structures have reduced setback requirements. Contact BDS for your specific situation.
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