Zoning Restrictions: Gresham vs Portland
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Gresham, OR and Portland, OR?
Gresham and Portland have similar restriction levels.
Gresham, OR
Multnomah County
Gresham allows home occupations in residential zones under the Development Code. Businesses must be secondary to the residential use and not change the character of the neighborhood.
View full Gresham rules →Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Portland's home occupation rules at PCC 33.203 allow most residential properties to host a small home-based business by right, subject to operating standards. Two tiers exist: Type A (no non-resident employees on-site, no customers visiting) and Type B (limited customers/employees with permit). Both types prohibit retail sales, manufacturing, vehicle repair, restaurants, and any use generating significant traffic or noise; signage is not allowed.
View full Portland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gresham | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed | In residential zones | - |
| Primary Use | Must remain residential | - |
| Exterior Evidence | Not allowed | - |
| Prohibited | Vehicle repair, retail walk-ins, manufacturing | - |
| Code | - | PCC 33.203 (Home Occupations) |
| Type A | - | No customers, no employees, no permit |
| Type B | - | 1 employee, 8 clients/day, permit ~$310 |
| Floor Area Limit | - | ≤25% of dwelling |
| Prohibited Uses | - | Retail, vehicle repair, restaurants, kennels |
| Signage | - | Not allowed (PCC 33.203.040(D)) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gresham FAQ
Can I run a business from home in Gresham?
Yes, home occupations are allowed in residential zones if the business is secondary to residential use and has no exterior evidence.
What home businesses are not allowed in Gresham?
Vehicle repair, retail sales with walk-in customers, and manufacturing that creates noise or odors are prohibited.
Portland FAQ
Can I run a business out of my Portland home?
Yes, under PCC 33.203 home occupation rules. A Type A occupation (no customers, no employees) is allowed by right. A Type B (limited customers and 1 employee) needs a Home Occupation Permit from BDS.
What can't I run from a Portland home?
PCC 33.203 prohibits retail sales, manufacturing, vehicle repair, restaurants, kennels, contracting yards, and any business creating noise, odor, traffic, or signage detectable off-site. The home must continue to look like a dwelling.
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