101 local rules on file · Pop. 462 · Multnomah County
Showing ordinances that apply to Orient, OR
Orient is an unincorporated community with a population of approximately 462 in Multnomah County, Oregon. Because Orient is not an incorporated city, it does not have its own municipal government or city code. Instead, Multnomah County ordinances apply directly to residential and commercial properties here. The rules below are the county-level regulations that govern your area. Nearby incorporated cities in Multnomah County may have different rules.
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.
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.
These unincorporated areas are also governed by Multnomah County ordinances.
Home-based childcare in Multnomah County requires Oregon Early Learning Division licensing under ORS 329A.260-329A.450. Registered Family Child Care: up to 10 children. Certified Family Child Care: up to 16 children. Portland allows both as home occupations under PCC 33.203 without a conditional use. Multnomah County zoning follows similar pattern under MCC 39.7505.
Home occupation customer traffic in unincorporated Multnomah County must not exceed normal residential levels. High-customer-traffic businesses may not qualify as home occupations under Zoning Code Chapter 39 and may require a conditional use permit.
Oregon's Domestic Kitchen law ORS 616.706 and Farm Direct Marketing law ORS 616.695 allow limited home food sales without commercial licensing. Products are limited to non-potentially hazardous baked goods, jams, jellies, and fruit butters. $50,000 annual gross sales cap. Sales must be direct to consumer; no internet shipping.
Multnomah County Zoning Code Chapter 39 generally prohibits exterior commercial signs for home occupations in residential zones in unincorporated areas. Residential appearance must be maintained. County sign code applies to all signs.
Home occupations in unincorporated Multnomah County are governed by Multnomah County Zoning Code Chapter 39. A home occupation must be accessory to the residential use. Multnomah County Code Compliance (503-988-5508) handles violations.
Multnomah County enforces defensible space through Oregon SB 762 (2021) wildfire hazard maps and county Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Properties in the Wildland-Urban Interface on the west side of the county (Forest Park, Skyline, Corbett) must maintain 30 to 100 feet of defensible space. Oregon Fire Code adopted statewide applies via OAR 837-040, enforced by the Multnomah County Fire Marshal and local fire districts.
Multnomah County wildfire risk is mapped under Oregon's 2022-2024 Wildfire Hazard Map (SB 762, SB 80). West Hills, Sauvie Island, and East County forests are High Hazard zones. Oregon Fire Code 2022 Chapter 49 requires defensible space (Zone 0: 0-5 ft noncombustible, Zone 1: 5-30 ft lean/clean, Zone 2: 30-100 ft reduced fuel) in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas.
Recreational fire pits in unincorporated Multnomah County are subject to Oregon Fire Code and Multnomah Fire Defense Board burn ban authority. Fires must be attended, comply with distance requirements, and are prohibited during declared burn bans. Burn line: 503-618-3083.
Multnomah County has authority to ban fireworks in unincorporated areas and has done so during periods of high fire risk. Oregon law bans aerial fireworks, firecrackers, and exploding devices statewide (Class B misdemeanor, up to $2,500 fine). County bans extend to all consumer fireworks during declared periods.
Backyard burning of yard debris is never permitted inside the Multnomah County urban burn ban boundary. Rural unincorporated areas may have some open burning allowed under DEQ permits. Multnomah Fire Defense Board has authority to issue burn bans county-wide. East Multnomah County Burn Line: 503-618-3083.
Multnomah County allows backyard poultry countywide. Portland permits up to 3 small animals (hens, ducks, rabbits, mini-goats) by right and up to 6 with a $31 specified-animal permit. Roosters are prohibited in Portland residential zones. Unincorporated Multnomah County allows livestock consistent with Rural Residential and Farm zoning. MCC Title 13 and Portland City Code 13.05 govern licensing and nuisance.
Multnomah County prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife that creates a nuisance under MCC 13.200 animal control provisions. Oregon ORS 496.730 prohibits feeding big game (deer, elk) that creates a public safety hazard. Portland encourages bird-friendly practices but regulates bird feeders in areas with bear activity in the Forest Park urban-wildland interface.
Multnomah County has no breed-specific legislation. Oregon has no statewide BSL. Dangerous dog determinations under County Code Title 13 and ORS 609 are based on individual behavior, not breed.
Multnomah County Code Title 13 requires dogs to be on a leash (max 8 feet) when off the owner's property or on public property. An animal 'at large' violates county code. Multnomah County Animal Services enforces county-wide including all cities and unincorporated areas.
Beekeeping in unincorporated Multnomah County is subject to state ODA registration requirements (5+ hives). County Vector Control handles bee nuisance complaints. Multnomah County Code Title 13 may apply to livestock and beekeeping in residential zones.
Oregon state law (ORS 609.305) prohibits keeping most exotic animals without a pre-2010 ODA permit. Multnomah County Code Title 13 supplements state law. MCAS enforces exotic animal regulations county-wide. ODFW regulates wild animal possession.
Multnomah County enforces abandoned vehicle rules under MCC 14.700 on county roads and unincorporated areas. Portland PCC 16.30 applies within city limits. Oregon ORS 819.110 authorizes removal after 24 hours on public streets. Inoperable vehicles on private property must be screened from public view per county zoning.
Driveways in unincorporated Multnomah County that access county roads require an approach permit from Multnomah County Land Use and Transportation. Vehicles on private property must not block road access or drainage ditches.
Multnomah County has no blanket overnight street parking ban, but Portland prohibits parking in the same spot for more than 24 hours under PCC 16.20.170 and enforces Area Parking Permit zones in several neighborhoods. Gresham GRC 7.20 allows overnight parking except during snow emergencies. ODOT prohibits overnight parking on state highway rights-of-way under OAR 734-035.
Portland requires EV-ready infrastructure in new multi-family construction under PCC 33.266 (2021 amendment) — 50% of parking spaces must be EV-capable. Oregon Building Codes Division OAR 918-460 adopted the 2022 Oregon Residential Specialty Code requiring 1 EV-ready space for new single-family homes with dedicated parking. HOA preemption under ORS 94.762 protects owner EV installations.
Commercial vehicles on county-maintained roads in unincorporated Multnomah County are subject to Oregon state commercial vehicle regulations (ORS Title 59, ODOT rules). No specific county commercial vehicle parking ordinance for unincorporated residential areas. Each city has its own rules.
Parking on county-maintained roads in unincorporated Multnomah County is governed by Oregon state traffic laws and county road rules. Abandoned vehicles may be reported to Multnomah County Sheriff. Each city within the county (Portland, Gresham, Troutdale) has its own separate parking code.
Multnomah County does not have a specific RV parking ordinance for unincorporated areas beyond Oregon state law. Oregon state law (ORS 197.493) addresses RV occupancy on private property. Living in an RV long-term on private property may require a land use permit in some zones.
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Multnomah County. Oregon does not restrict residential rainwater collection under ORS 537. Portland's Ecoroof and Clean River Rewards programs provide stormwater fee discounts for rainwater capture. Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code (OAR 918-750) governs potable rainwater systems. Simple rain barrels require no permits.
Multnomah County enforces noxious weed abatement under ORS 105.550 to 105.570 and Oregon Department of Agriculture OAR 603-052. Portland City Code 29.20 requires property owners to remove tall grass and noxious weeds over 10 inches. Armenian blackberry, English ivy, knotweed, and garlic mustard are priority invasives. The Portland Bureau of Development Services Nuisance Inspection Team handles complaints.
Artificial turf is permitted throughout Multnomah County without building permits for residential installations. HOAs cannot prohibit artificial turf under Oregon ORS 94.776 (HB 2571, 2023). Portland's Stormwater Management Manual treats turf as impervious surface for stormwater calculations over 500 sq ft, which may trigger BES review.
Multnomah County actively encourages native plant landscaping through the East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District. Portland Title 11 Trees and the Stormwater Management Manual require native or adapted species for certain applications. Oregon's xeriscape preemption under HB 2571 (2023) prohibits HOA bans on native plant landscapes.
Nuisance vegetation complaints in unincorporated Multnomah County are handled by Multnomah County Vector Control and Code Enforcement (503-988-3464). No specific statewide grass height ordinance exists for unincorporated county areas, but excessive overgrowth and nuisance plants are subject to county nuisance regulations.
In unincorporated Multnomah County, trees on private property generally do not require permits for trimming. Trees overhanging county roads must be maintained for safe clearance. Trees in sensitive areas (floodplain, habitat, steep slopes) may require special approval.
Multnomah County unincorporated areas have no standing outdoor water restrictions under normal conditions. Water service is generally provided through municipal systems (Portland Water Bureau, Gresham). Oregon OWRD monitors drought statewide. Emergency curtailment may restrict outdoor use.
Private property trees in unincorporated Multnomah County generally do not require permits for removal unless in sensitive land areas (floodplain, habitat, steep slopes, riparian corridor). Tree removal in sensitive areas requires county land use review.
Multnomah County swimming pool construction requires a building permit in all jurisdictions, issued by Portland BDS for Portland, each city's building department elsewhere, and Multnomah County Land Use & Transportation for unincorporated areas. Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC) Appendix G and OAR 918-480 govern design. Pools holding water over 24 inches deep require barrier, electrical, and final inspections.
Hot tub installations in Multnomah County require an electrical permit for the 240V circuit and must comply with Oregon Residential Specialty Code Appendix G if classified as a 'pool' (water deeper than 24 inches). A lockable ASTM F1346 safety cover may substitute for a fence on most spas. Setbacks follow underlying zoning; typical 3-5 ft from side property lines.
Above-ground pools in unincorporated Multnomah County must meet ORSC Appendix G barrier requirements even if no structural building permit is required. Ladders/steps must be lockable or removable. Setbacks and lot coverage per county zoning code apply.
All swimming pool barriers in unincorporated Multnomah County require a building permit. Oregon Residential Specialty Code Appendix G requires minimum 4-foot barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates. Oregon Building Codes Division enforces statewide.
In-ground pools in unincorporated Multnomah County require building and electrical permits from Multnomah County Building Codes Division. Oregon Residential Specialty Code applies. Anti-entrapment requirements (Virginia Graeme Baker Act) are mandatory.
STRs in Multnomah County unincorporated areas are subject to state noise standards and county code. Since entire-home STRs are generally prohibited in unincorporated areas, any STR operating with approval must comply with county nuisance and neighbor-protection standards.
Portland caps STR occupancy at 2 adults per bedroom plus 2 additional under PCC 33.207 (Accessory Short-Term Rentals). Multnomah County unincorporated areas limit STRs to 5 guest rooms under MCC 39.3085. Gresham requires Type I occupancy in single-family zones. All cities require operators to post maximum occupancy and a local contact number.
Portland requires $1 million liability insurance for all Accessory Short-Term Rentals under PCC 33.207.060. Multnomah County unincorporated STRs require $500,000 minimum under MCC 39.3085. Platform-provided coverage (Airbnb AirCover, Vrbo) may satisfy minimums if it meets the primary-coverage requirement. Proof of insurance must be submitted at permit application and renewal.
In unincorporated Multnomah County, short-term rental of an entire home or ADU is generally NOT permitted. Multnomah County does not have a specific STR permit program. STR use in residential zones is governed by general zoning rules and typically requires a conditional use permit or is prohibited.
Multnomah County collects a Transient Lodging Tax (TLT) for lodging businesses in the county outside Portland city limits. The county TLT is 5.5% for unincorporated areas. Oregon State TLT is 1.5% (ORS 320.300). Gresham has its own 8% city TLT in addition.
Multnomah County unincorporated areas have no specific STR parking rules. Standard county zoning and land use requirements apply. Off-street parking requirements for residential uses are set by Multnomah County Zoning Code Chapter 39.
Multnomah County fence material rules are set in MCC Chapter 39 (Zoning) for unincorporated areas, and by each city's zoning code for incorporated areas. Standard residential materials include cedar, vinyl, wrought iron, and tubular steel. Barbed wire and razor wire are prohibited in residential zones. Portland's historic districts and design overlay zones add material and finish requirements.
Multnomah County requires a building permit for retaining walls over 4 feet in exposed height or any wall retaining a surcharge (slope, driveway, structure) under MCC 38.0535 and the Oregon Residential Specialty Code. Portland BDS permits walls over 4 feet under PCC 24.10 and requires engineered plans. Portland's landslide-prone West Hills zones trigger additional geotechnical review.
Pool barriers in Multnomah County must comply with the Oregon Residential Specialty Code Appendix G and OAR 918-480: minimum 48-inch fence, self-closing self-latching gates, 2-inch max ground clearance, and openings that will not pass a 4-inch sphere. Building permits and inspections are required through county or Portland BDS.
Multnomah County Zoning Code Chapter 39 limits fences in unincorporated residential areas. Front setback fences are generally limited to 3.5 feet; side and rear fences up to 7 feet (permit required over 7 feet). Clear vision requirements apply at intersections.
Fences over 7 feet in unincorporated Multnomah County require a building permit. Standard residential fences under 7 feet generally do not require a permit. Swimming pool barriers always require a permit. Oregon Residential Specialty Code Appendix G applies to pool barriers.
Multnomah County follows Oregon's boundary fence statute (ORS 97.130). No county-specific fence cost-sharing ordinance exists. Property surveys recommended before building near boundaries. Disputes are civil matters; Oregon courts enforce ORS 97.130.
Multnomah County follows Oregon's state-leading ADU laws. Tiny homes on foundations qualify as ADUs under ORS 197.312 and Portland PCC 33.205 — up to 800 sq ft, no owner-occupancy or parking requirement per HB 2001 (2019). Tiny houses on wheels (THOWs) are regulated as park-model RVs under ORS 446 and limited to RV parks or as temporary dwellings under Portland PCC 33.296.
Carports in Multnomah County require a building permit and must meet accessory-structure setback and lot coverage rules under MCC 39.4200. Portland regulates carports under PCC 33.110 base zones with 5-ft side/rear setbacks and a 15-ft height limit in R-5/R-7. HOA restrictions and neighborhood design overlays may apply.
Sheds under 200 sq ft and under 10 ft height do not require a structural building permit in unincorporated Multnomah County per ORSC. Zoning code setback and lot coverage requirements still apply. Sheds with electrical/plumbing require trade permits.
ADUs are allowed in unincorporated Multnomah County lands within the Urban Growth Boundary under Oregon HB 2001 (2019). ADUs are NOT allowed outside the Urban Growth Boundary. SDC waiver available with 10-year no-STR commitment. Entire-home STR use of ADUs is prohibited.
Converting a garage to living space in unincorporated Multnomah County requires a building permit. If the result is an independent unit with kitchen and bathroom, it qualifies as an ADU under Zoning Code Chapter 39. Structural upgrades and trade permits required.
Multnomah County juvenile curfew is set by ORS 419C.680 and implemented through Portland City Code 14A.80.010. Minors under 18 prohibited from being in public between midnight and 4 AM (14+), 10:15 PM to 4 AM (under 14). School-day daytime curfew applies during school hours. Portland Police enforce with parent notification; repeat offenses can result in cite-and-release.
Multnomah County parks close at varying hours. Portland Parks & Recreation parks are open 5 AM to midnight under PCC 20.12.070; specific parks (e.g., Waterfront Park, Mt Tabor Summit Drive) close earlier. Metro Regional Parks close at legal sunset (OMS 10.10). Oregon State Parks (Rooster Rock, Benson) close at sunset. Camping in parks is prohibited under PCC 20.12.090.
Portland City Code 11.50 requires replacement planting or fee-in-lieu when regulated trees are removed. Ratios scale with the removed tree's size: 1 replacement for trees 12-19 inches DBH, 2 replacements for 20-35 inches, and 3+ replacements for larger trees. Fee-in-lieu is paid to the Portland Tree Planting Fund. Replacement trees must meet minimum 1.5 to 2 inch caliper at planting.
Portland City Code Title 11 (Trees) requires a permit to remove any street tree or any private tree 20 inches DBH or larger. Portland Urban Forestry issues permits with review by city arborists. Non-Portland cities and unincorporated Multnomah County require permits per MCC 39 for trees in riparian and Significant Environmental Concern (SEC) overlays. Illegal removal penalties scale with tree size and species.
Portland has designated over 325 Heritage Trees since 1993 under City Code 11.50 (former 20.40). Heritage Trees receive the highest protection - removal requires Portland City Council or Heritage Tree Committee approval. Damage or removal carries civil penalties up to three times the tree's appraised value. Nominations are made by residents and approved by City Council.
Multnomah County is inland on the Columbia and Willamette rivers and has no Pacific coastline. Oregon's Coastal Zone Management Program (Statewide Planning Goal 17 and 18) does not apply to Multnomah County. Riverfront development along the Columbia and Willamette is governed by the Willamette Greenway (Goal 15) and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area east of Troutdale. No coastal commission jurisdiction exists.
Multnomah County stormwater is regulated under Oregon DEQ MS4 permits. Portland holds a Phase I NPDES permit and administers the Stormwater Management Manual (SWMM) under PCC 17.38. Post-construction runoff controls required for any development creating 500 sq ft or more of new impervious surface (stricter than the state 0.25-acre threshold). Clean River Rewards program incentivizes green infrastructure.
Portland requires grading permits under PCC Title 24 for excavation or fill exceeding 50 cubic yards or slopes over 20%. Portland's Landslide Hazard areas (West Hills) require geotechnical reports. Drainage cannot be redirected onto neighboring properties (ORS 105.170). Retaining walls over 4 feet require engineered plans. Multnomah County Land Use requires grading permits in unincorporated areas on SEC overlay or steep slopes.
Multnomah County erosion control follows DEQ 1200-C NPDES permits for construction sites over 1 acre and local erosion control programs under PCC 10 (Portland) and GRC 6.18 (Gresham). Portland requires Erosion & Sediment Control Plans for all permitted earthwork. Best management practices include silt fences, straw wattles, stabilized construction entrances, and covered stockpiles. Sediment discharge to waterways carries severe penalties.
Multnomah County has extensive flood management responsibilities along the Columbia and Sandy Rivers. The Urban Flood Safety and Water Quality District (est. July 1, 2024) manages 13,000 acres of floodplain including 27 miles of levees. County flood hazard areas require permits and NFIP compliance. Community Rating System discounts flood insurance premiums.
Multnomah County food trucks must hold a Multnomah County Environmental Health Mobile Food Unit license (Class I-IV depending on menu complexity) under OAR 333-162 and MCC Chapter 25. Portland additionally requires a Revenue Division Business License and, for cart pods, zoning approval. Annual fees range from ~$140 to ~$600, and inspections are required before opening.
Portland City Code Chapter 33.242 designates food cart pods and single-cart locations by zone. Carts require a site with an approved plan showing restroom access within 200 feet and ADA compliance. Gresham restricts mobile vending to commercial zones only. Unincorporated Multnomah County permits food carts on private property with County Land Use approval in Commercial and Mixed-Use zones.
Multnomah County garage sales should be conducted during daytime hours to avoid noise and nuisance violations. Portland does not set specific sale hours but enforces general noise limits (PCC 18.10) and property maintenance rules (PCC 29.20). Typical sales run 8 AM to 5 PM. Overnight merchandise displays violate property maintenance code.
Portland City Code 33.203 limits garage and yard sales to no more than 4 sales per calendar year, each no more than 3 consecutive days. Gresham limits residents to 3 sales per year (GRC 7.45). Exceeding these limits classifies the activity as a retail business requiring home occupation permits and zoning compliance. Neighborhood or block sales typically count as one event.
Multnomah County does not require permits for residential garage or yard sales. Portland, Gresham, Troutdale, and Fairview permit garage sales as an accessory residential use without city fees or registration. Signage must comply with local sign code. Oregon sales tax does not apply - Oregon has no state sales tax. Commercial-scale operations require a business license.
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.
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.
Multnomah County cities apply property maintenance codes to garage/yard sales. Portland PCC 29.20 requires merchandise to be removed from public view by the end of each sale day. Signs must come down within 24 hours after the sale. Property must be restored to normal condition within 48 hours. Habitual visible clutter triggers blight enforcement by Portland BDS Nuisance Team.
Portland requires trash and recycling bins to be stored behind the front building line or screened from street view under PCC 17.102 Solid Waste rules. Bins can be at curb no earlier than 6 PM the day before and must be returned within 24 hours. Multnomah County contracts collection through franchise haulers and enforces bin storage under MCC 15.900.
Portland City Code 17.28.025 requires property owners to clear snow and ice from adjacent sidewalks within a reasonable time after snowfall, typically interpreted as the day of or day following. Gresham GRC 7.62 requires removal within 24 hours. Deicer or sand required for ice. Corner lots must clear curb ramps. Slip-and-fall liability under ORS 105.682 incentivizes prompt clearance.
Multnomah County enforces property maintenance through MCC 29 Nuisance Abatement and county code compliance. Portland uses PCC 29 Nuisance Code and the Title 33 Land Use Code, with complaints routed to the Bureau of Development Services. Graffiti removal required within 10 days per PCC 14B.80. Derelict buildings may be placarded and boarded under Portland's Unsafe Property Order process.
Vacant lot maintenance in Multnomah County requires grass/weeds under 10 inches, no trash accumulation, and secure perimeters under MCC 15.601 and PCC 29.20. Portland's Vacant Property Registration PCC 29.10 requires annual registration ($280 first year, escalating). Oregon Goal 7 natural hazards planning also affects vacant floodplain parcels.
Commercial drone pilots in Multnomah County must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. PDX (Class C) and Troutdale (Class D) airspace require LAANC authorization. Portland requires a Film Permit through Prosper Portland for commercial aerial filming (PCC 5.76). Oregon ORS 837.300-837.390 adds state restrictions on weaponization and surveillance use.
Recreational drone operators in Multnomah County must follow FAA rules (49 USC §44809) including registration for UAS over 0.55 lbs, 400-foot altitude limit, and TRUST test. Portland Parks & Recreation prohibits drone launching or landing in city parks without a permit under PCC 20.12. PDX Class C airspace covers most of north and east Multnomah County, requiring LAANC authorization.
Oregon Measure 91 (2014) allows adults 21+ to grow up to 4 cannabis plants per household for personal use. Multnomah County does not add local restrictions. Portland requires plants to be out of public view under PCC 14B.70. Landlords may prohibit growing in rental leases. OLCC licenses commercial growing separately.
Portland allows OLCC-licensed cannabis retail in CM, CS, CG, CI, and EX zones under PCC 33.207, with 1,000-foot buffer from schools. Troutdale and Wood Village opted out of recreational cannabis retail. Gresham allows dispensaries in limited commercial zones. Multnomah County imposes a 3% local cannabis tax on top of Oregon's 17% state tax under Measure 91.
Portland requires outdoor lighting to use full-cutoff, downward-directed fixtures under PCC 33.130.215. Commercial lighting cannot exceed 0.5 foot-candles at residential property lines. Oregon has no statewide dark-sky statute, but Multnomah County's SEC overlays (Columbia Gorge, Sandy River) apply dark-sky best practices. LED color temperature generally limited to 3000K or below to reduce sky glow and protect bird migration along the Pacific Flyway.
Multnomah County regulates light trespass through the Zoning Code exterior lighting standards in MCC 39.6400, requiring fixtures to be fully shielded and limiting illumination at residential property lines. Portland enforces PCC 33.262.070 (Outdoor Lighting) and PCC 33.510 Central City light standards. Oregon Department of Transportation standards govern state highway lighting. Complaints are investigated by county Land Use & Transportation Code Compliance or Portland's Bureau of Development Services.
Multnomah County rent increases are capped by Oregon's statewide rent cap law SB 608 (2019) as amended by SB 611 (2023): the lower of 7% plus CPI or 10% per 12-month period. The 2024 cap was 10%, the 2025 cap is 10%. Portland has no additional rent control but imposes mandatory relocation assistance under PCC 30.01.085 when landlords raise rent 10% or more in 12 months or issue no-cause notices.
Multnomah County tenants are protected by Oregon's statewide just-cause eviction law SB 608 (2019), codified at ORS 90.427. After the first 12 months of tenancy, landlords may only terminate for qualifying landlord-based or tenant-based cause. Portland layers additional protections through the FAIR ordinance PCC 30.01.086 and relocation assistance under PCC 30.01.085 requiring $2,900 to $4,500 per unit for qualifying terminations.
Portland requires landlords to register rental units with the Rental Services Office under PCC 7.02.890 and pay the Residential Rental Registration fee of $60 per unit per year (2024 rate). Gresham requires Rental Licensing under GRC 7.80 with annual inspections on a rotating cycle. Unincorporated Multnomah County does not have a countywide rental registry but enforces habitability through state law ORS 90.320.
Multnomah County cities require carts placed curbside by 6 AM on collection day with lids closed and at least 3 feet of space between carts and other obstacles. Portland PCC 17.102.210 requires removal from the curb by the end of the collection day. Storage between pickups must be behind the building line or screened from public view.
Multnomah County waste collection is franchised by Metro and the cities. Portland contracts with private haulers through PCC 17.102 with weekly trash, weekly composting, and every-other-week recycling. Unincorporated areas are served by Metro-franchised haulers. Metro Regional Government oversees regional solid waste policy and long-haul disposal under its charter authority.
Multnomah County bulk waste disposal is handled by Metro transfer stations (Metro Central in Northwest Portland and Metro South in Oregon City). Most Portland haulers provide 1 to 2 free Bulky Waste pickups per year (mattresses, furniture, appliances). Metro also operates drop-off events and Neighborhood Cleanup programs. Appliances with refrigerant must be processed separately under ODEQ rules.
Multnomah County residents must separate recyclables from trash under Metro Code 5.01 and each city's solid waste ordinance. Oregon's Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (SB 582, 2021) overhauled the recycling system starting July 1, 2025, creating a producer-responsibility program via Circular Action Alliance. Portland accepts the Metro Regional Recycling List: paper, cardboard, metal cans, glass (separate), and specific plastic containers.
Portland and Multnomah County recognize posted 'No Soliciting' or 'No Trespassing' signs as legal notice; violation is enforceable under PCC 17.68.030 and ORS 164.245 (criminal trespass). Multnomah County does not maintain a central no-knock registry, but Portland's permit conditions require solicitors to honor posted notices. Religious and political canvassers have First Amendment protection.
Multnomah County and its cities regulate door-to-door commercial solicitation through local permit systems. Portland City Code 17.68 governs solicitor/peddler permits issued by the Revenue Division, with background check and ID badge requirements. Gresham GRC 5.20 and Troutdale TMC 5.35 parallel the Portland system. Religious and political canvassing is constitutionally protected and exempt.
Multnomah County does not regulate residential holiday displays under MCC 39.6250 — decorations are exempt from the sign code. Portland similarly exempts holiday decorations under PCC 32.32.030(B). Displays must not block sidewalks, create fire hazards, or violate noise rules in PCC 18.10. Portland Fire & Rescue responds to electrical hazards under the Oregon Fire Code.
Multnomah County allows political signs on private property with minimal regulation under MCC 39.6250 sign provisions. Portland regulates temporary signs under PCC 32.32.020 with a 32 sq ft residential cap and exempts political signs from permit requirements. All jurisdictions must follow Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015) — content-based regulation is unconstitutional. Signs in public rights-of-way are removed by ODOT/PBOT.
Multnomah County allows garage sale signs under MCC 39.6250 temporary sign provisions, 6 sq ft maximum on private property. Portland PCC 32.32.020 permits temporary event signs but prohibits placement on utility poles, trees, or public right-of-way under PCC 17.28.070. Portland removes unauthorized signs without notice through the PBOT Sign Shop.
Oregon's Solar Rights Act ORS 105.880-105.895 prohibits HOAs from unreasonably restricting solar installations. ORS 94.762 (Oregon Planned Community Act) and ORS 100.405 (Condominium Act) specifically void CC&R provisions that ban solar collectors. HOAs may impose reasonable aesthetic conditions but cannot effectively prohibit solar.
Multnomah County requires building and electrical permits for solar PV installations through the Department of Community Services Building Division. Portland uses BDS online solar permitting with same-day review for systems under 20 kW. Oregon's statewide solar permitting follows OAR 918-310 and the Oregon Solar Installation Specialty Code. Fire setbacks follow Oregon Fire Code Chapter 12.