Coastal Development: Gresham vs Portland
How do coastal development rules compare between Gresham, OR and Portland, OR?
Gresham has fewer restrictions than Portland.
Gresham, OR
Multnomah County
Multnomah County is inland on the Columbia and Willamette rivers and has no Pacific coastline. Oregon's Coastal Zone Management Program (Statewide Planning Goal 17 and 18) does not apply to Multnomah County. Riverfront development along the Columbia and Willamette is governed by the Willamette Greenway (Goal 15) and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area east of Troutdale. No coastal commission jurisdiction exists.
View full Gresham rules →Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Portland is not a coastal city but is situated along the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, which are subject to Oregon's Greenway overlay zones. Title 33 (Planning and Zoning) Chapter 33.440 establishes the Greenway Overlay Zones that regulate development along the Willamette River to protect scenic, recreational, and ecological values.
View full Portland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gresham | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific Coast | None (inland county) | - |
| Willamette Greenway | Goal 15; PCC 33.440 | - |
| Columbia Gorge NSA | East of Troutdale | - |
| Jurisdiction | DLCD, Gorge Commission | - |
| Federal Law | 16 USC §544 | - |
| Applicable Code | - | Title 33, Chapter 33.440 Greenway Overlay |
| River Frontage | - | Willamette and Columbia Rivers |
| Review Required | - | Most development in overlay zone |
| Environmental Zones | - | Chapter 33.430 environmental overlays |
| Setback | - | Varies by Greenway zone designation |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gresham FAQ
Does Multnomah County have a coast?
No. The county sits inland on the Columbia and Willamette rivers. Coastal zone rules do not apply, but Willamette Greenway and Columbia Gorge scenic rules do.
Can I build a dock on the Willamette in Portland?
Yes with Willamette Greenway Review (PCC 33.440), Oregon Department of State Lands removal-fill permit, and US Army Corps of Engineers approval. ESA consultation is required for salmon habitat.
Portland FAQ
Does Portland have coastal development rules?
Portland is not on the coast, but the Willamette Greenway overlay zones under Title 33, Chapter 33.440 regulate riverfront development along the Willamette River. These rules protect scenic, ecological, and recreational values.
Do I need a review to build near the Willamette River?
Yes. Greenway review is required for most development, exterior alterations, and tree removal within the Greenway overlay zone. Additional environmental overlay restrictions may apply under Chapter 33.430.
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