Portland, OR Noise Ordinances: Aircraft Noise (2026)

New dwelling units allowed by this chapter within the 65 and 68 DNL contours must be constructed with sound insulation or other means to achieve a day/night average interior noise level of 45 dBA. Reconstructed dwelling units where the total cost of improvements is 75 percent or more of the total assessed improvement value of the site must also meet this standard. Garages and similar accessory structures that do not include living area are not subject to this requirement.

1. Certified by acoustical engineer. An engineer registered in Oregon who is licensed in acoustical engineering must certify that the building plans comply with the performance standard for sound insulation prior to the issuance of a building permit.

2. City provides list. The City, in consultation with the Port of Portland, will provide a list of at least three registered engineers licensed in acoustical engineering.

3. Port of Portland pays for sound insulation certification. At an owner's request, the Port of Portland is responsible for the costs of the noise insulation certification of dwelling units submitted by an engineer on the City list. The Port of Portland will pay for the cost of the certification required by this section, but not design, materials, or labor costs associated with installing the sound insulation. The owner has the option to retain any registered engineer licensed in acoustical engineering not on the list, at the owner's expense.

D. Residential use and density.