Oregon Statewide Rule

Oregon State Building Code Height Provisions

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Oregon (2026)

Key Facts

Building code: OSSC and ORSC
Authority: ORS 455.040
Type V-B max: 40 feet typical
Zoning heights: Local control

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Oregon Public Law

Summary

Structure height in Oregon is governed by the statewide Oregon Structural Specialty Code and Residential Specialty Code adopted under ORS 455.040. These set maximum heights by construction type and occupancy that cities cannot lower for code purposes, though zoning height limits remain local.

455.040 State building code preempts local ordinances and rules; exemptions; criteria. (1) The state building code shall be applicable and uniform throughout this state and in all municipalities, and no municipality shall enact or enforce any ordinance, rule or regulation relating to the same matters encompassed by the state building code but which provides different requirements unless authorized by the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. The director's authorization shall not be considered an amendment to the state building code under ORS 455.030. The director shall encourage experimentation, innovation and cost effectiveness by municipalities in the adoption of ordinances, rules or regulations which conflict with the state building code.

Source: Oregon Public LawView official code

Full Breakdown

ORS 455.020-455.040 require uniform statewide enforcement of the Oregon Structural Specialty Code (OSSC) and Oregon Residential Specialty Code (ORSC). OSSC Table 504.3 sets maximum building heights by construction type, ranging from 40 feet for Type V-B wood frame to unlimited for Type I-A. Residential R-3 occupancies are limited to three stories above grade plane. These are minimum-safety ceilings, not zoning. Local zoning height limits (often 25-35 feet in single-family zones) operate independently and remain valid as long as they do not exceed code maxima or violate state housing preemption laws like HB 2001.

Violations & Penalties

Building permit denials for code-exceeding heights are appealed to local boards then to the State Building Codes Structures Board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Oregon set a maximum house height statewide?

Only through construction-type limits in the building code. Practical residential heights are set by local zoning, which typically caps single-family homes at 25 to 35 feet.

Can cities exceed state building code height limits?

No. The state code is uniform under ORS 455.040. Cities may impose stricter zoning height caps but cannot authorize buildings exceeding the construction-type maximums in OSSC Table 504.3.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.