Portland addresses outdoor lighting through Title 33 (Planning and Zoning) development standards and Title 32 (Signs). While Portland does not have a standalone dark-sky ordinance, outdoor lighting for new development must be designed to minimize glare, light trespass, and sky glow. The city encourages compliance with International Dark-Sky Association standards.
Title 33 development standards require that exterior lighting for new development and major renovations be directed downward and shielded to prevent light trespass onto adjacent properties and into the night sky. Full-cutoff or shielded fixtures are required for most commercial and multi-family development. PBOT's street lighting program has been transitioning to LED fixtures with improved directionality. The city's Climate Action Plan supports energy-efficient lighting that reduces unnecessary light pollution.
Non-compliant lighting in new development may not receive final approval from the Bureau of Development Services. Existing properties with lighting that creates a nuisance may be subject to complaint-based enforcement.
Portland, OR
Portland does not have a general ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, garden statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Items must remain...
Portland, OR
Portland has no specific city ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must stay on the property and not...
Portland, OR
Portland does not have a specific ordinance regulating residential holiday lighting. General electrical safety and nuisance standards apply. Historic Conserv...
Portland, OR
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Portland require Bureau of Development Services permits when they include gas, plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Built-...
Portland, OR
Residential outdoor smokers (offset, pellet, kamado, vertical) are legal in Portland under the cooking-fire exemption to PCC 31.16, but persistent smoke that...
Portland, OR
Portland adopts the Oregon Fire Code (2022 edition based on IFC 2021) through PCC 31.16. Under IFC §308.1.4, propane (LPG) and charcoal grills are prohibited...
See how Portland's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.