5 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 3 cities in Multnomah County, Oregon.
Verified from official government sources
Multnomah County does not have a separate county-wide noise ordinance for unincorporated areas beyond state law (ORS 467/DEQ OAR 340-035). Noise complaints in unincorporated areas are handled by the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office. Each incorporated city (Portland, Gresham, Troutdale) has its own noise code.
Multnomah County unincorporated areas follow Oregon state noise standards (ORS 467/DEQ OAR 340-035) for construction noise. No separate county construction hours ordinance exists. Oregon DEQ baseline limits apply. Construction noise during standard business hours generally does not violate state standards.
Multnomah County Animal Services (MCAS) enforces animal noise ordinances county-wide under Multnomah County Code Title 13. Habitual or persistent barking that disturbs neighbors is a violation. MCAS provides 24-hour service to all cities and unincorporated Multnomah County.
Multnomah County has no countywide leaf blower ordinance. Portland adopted a phased gas leaf blower ban under City Code Title 18 and Ordinance 191370 (2022), with a full ban on gas-powered blowers in residential use by 2026 and commercial use by 2028. In unincorporated Multnomah County and Gresham, noise hours apply but gas blowers remain legal. Oregon DEQ rules OAR 340-035 set environmental noise baselines, and state law does not preempt local bans on small off-road engines.
Multnomah County defers to city noise codes. Portland requires a Noise Variance through the Noise Control Office for any amplified sound audible beyond property lines, governed by PCC 18.02 and 18.10. Gresham and other cities require special event permits for outdoor amplification. Base state authority comes from ORS 467 and OAR 340-035, with decibel limits measured at the nearest noise-sensitive property.
3 cities in Multnomah County have their own noise ordinances 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