3 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 1 city in Multnomah County, Oregon.
Verified from official government sources
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.
Portland residential height limits are 30 feet in R5 and R7, 35 feet in R2.5 and RM1/RM2, and up to 45 feet in RM3 (PCC 33.110). Commercial and Central City zones allow 45-125+ feet. Height is measured to the midpoint of a sloped roof. Unincorporated Multnomah County RR zones cap at 35 feet. View corridors (Council Crest, Skyline) and historic districts impose additional limits.
Portland residential zones cap lot coverage at 50% in R5/R7 and 60% in R2.5 (PCC 33.110). Unincorporated Multnomah County RR zones typically cap at 25% building coverage. Lot coverage calculations include the footprint of all structures with a roof. Stormwater management requirements apply to impervious surfaces over 500 sq ft or 50% of the lot.
1 cities in Multnomah County have their own building setbacks & zoning rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
See every category we cover for Multnomah County β parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Multnomah County Ordinance Hub β