Signage Rules: Gresham vs Portland
How do signage rules rules compare between Gresham, OR and Portland, OR?
Gresham has fewer restrictions than Portland.
Gresham, OR
Multnomah County
Gresham restricts signage for home businesses. Signs must be small and unobtrusive, typically limited to one small nameplate sign. Illuminated or freestanding signs are generally not allowed.
View full Gresham rules →Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Portland's home occupation rules at PCC 33.203 explicitly prohibit signs and external evidence of the home business. PCC 33.203.040(D) requires that home occupations 'show no exterior evidence' from off-site, which means no business signs, no window signs, no exterior lighting, no merchandise display, and no special parking signage. This is one of the strictest home-business signage rules in the Pacific Northwest.
View full Portland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gresham | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 1–2 square feet nameplate | - |
| Type | Flat-mounted on dwelling | - |
| Illuminated | Not allowed | - |
| Right-of-Way | No signs in ROW | - |
| Code | - | PCC 33.203.040(D) (Home Occupations) |
| Signs Allowed | - | None — zero exterior evidence |
| Window Signs | - | Prohibited |
| Commercial Vehicle | - | Visible signage problematic |
| General Sign Code | - | PCC 32.32 (residential restrictions) |
| Enforcing Agency | - | Portland BDS |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gresham FAQ
Can I put a sign up for my home business in Gresham?
Yes, one small nameplate sign (about 1–2 square feet) mounted flat on the dwelling is typically allowed.
Can I have a lighted sign for my home business in Gresham?
No. Illuminated signs and freestanding signs are not permitted for home occupations.
Portland FAQ
Can I put a small business sign on my Portland house?
No. PCC 33.203.040(D) requires that home occupations show no exterior evidence — 'the dwelling must look like a dwelling.' Even small placards, sandwich boards, and window decals are prohibited. The general residential sign rules at PCC 32.32 are also restrictive.
What if my home business needs a visible sign?
You'll need to relocate to a commercial zone (CN, CM, CG, CX) where commercial signage is allowed under PCC 32.32. Portland's home occupation rule is intentionally strict to protect residential character — it has no exception for small or 'tasteful' signs.
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