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TMC 10.12.040 requires all vehicles parked on private property to sit on a hard, durable surface like concrete, asphalt, or compacted gravel. Front-yard parking is restricted to driveways, and no vehicle may extend into the public right-of-way or sidewalk.
TMC 10.04.020 defines an abandoned vehicle as one with expired or missing plates, no visible VIN, or that appears inoperative. TMC 10.36.010 bars such vehicles from any public right-of-way over 72 hours, or visible private property over seven days.
TMC 10.12.050 bars parking RVs, trailers, or boats on any Troutdale street except for loading or unloading up to four hours. On private residential property, TMC 10.12.040(A) caps the household at two recreational vehicles within a five-vehicle total.
Troutdale requires a building permit to construct, demolish, or move any carport over 200 square feet in floor area or over 10 feet in height (measured from finished floor to top plate). Smaller non-habitable accessory structures are permit-exempt but must still meet zoning setbacks. Carports also have to satisfy Troutdale Development Code parking dimensions and the underlying residential zone's setback and height standards. Confirm zone-specific setbacks with the Community Development Department at 503-665-5175.
TDC 5.010 regulates residential accessory structures, including sheds. No shed may sit in the front yard, and side and rear setbacks are at least 3 feet. A single shed is capped at 1,000 sq ft and 20 feet tall; building permits apply over 200 sq ft or 10 feet.
TDC 8.170 allows up to two accessory dwelling units per legal primary single-family dwelling — one must be an interior conversion or attached, and the other detached. Each ADU is capped at 800 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling, whichever is smaller.
Converting a garage into living space in Troutdale requires a building permit under TMC Title 15. If the conversion creates a separate dwelling unit, it also must meet ADU standards in TDC 8.170 and provide replacement off-street parking under TDC 9.010.
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.
Oregon has no statewide short-term rental insurance mandate, and Troutdale's municipal code does not require STR operators to carry a specific liability policy or name the city as additional insured. Most lenders and STR markets still expect at least $1,000,000 per-occurrence commercial general liability coverage written for transient occupancy, since standard homeowner policies often exclude STR use. Confirm any city-specific requirement with Community Development at 503-674-7230.
Troutdale has not codified a short-term-rental-specific occupancy cap (such as a flat maximum number of guests or a 'two per bedroom plus two' formula). Because the Troutdale Development Code does not define STR as a separate use and the Troutdale Municipal Code does not impose a vacation-rental headcount, occupancy is governed by the Oregon Residential Specialty Code and the Oregon Structural Specialty Code as adopted statewide, which use International Code Council bedroom-area minimums: 70 square feet for one occupant, plus 50 square feet for each additional occupant in a shared sleeping room. Lease/listing capacity is set by the operator within those building-code limits.
Troutdale does not impose a city-level transient lodging tax. Short-term rentals inside the city limits are subject to two layered taxes: (1) the Multnomah County Transient Lodging Tax of 5.5% on all rentals in Multnomah County outside the City of Portland, administered by the Multnomah County Department of County Management; and (2) the Oregon state transient lodging tax (ORS 320.305-320.340), which increases from 1.5% to 2.5% effective for lodging charges on or after January 1, 2026 under HB 2977. Platform-collected tax (Airbnb, Vrbo) typically covers both taxes for platform bookings; direct bookings remain the operator's responsibility. The only Troutdale city-level dollar obligation is the $80 annual business license fee that applies at three or more rental units.
Troutdale has not codified short-term-rental-specific quiet hours, decibel schedules, or party-house penalties. STR guests are governed by the general noise control provisions of Troutdale Municipal Code (TMC) Chapter 8.24, which prohibits the operation of radios, televisions, stereos, loudspeakers, musical instruments, and similar sound-producing devices between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. when the sound is 'plainly audible' inside a noise-sensitive unit that is not the source. The same 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. window applies to loading, unloading, and handling of crates, containers, and building materials. Daytime amplified sound, vehicle horns, and animal noise are independently regulated under Chapter 8.24 and the nuisance provisions of TMC Chapter 8.28.
Troutdale has no STR-specific parking rules. Standard TMC Chapter 10 parking rules apply. RVs are limited to 4 hours on street for loading/unloading. Maximum 5 vehicles per residential unit including up to 2 RVs on private property.
As of May 2026, the City of Troutdale has not enacted a short-term-rental-specific permit, registration, or licensing ordinance. The Troutdale Municipal Code and Troutdale Development Code (TDC) do not contain a dedicated STR chapter. Operators of vacation rentals, Airbnb, and Vrbo listings inside Troutdale are governed by the city's general business-license rule: under the Troutdale City Code business licensing provisions administered by the City Recorder, a business license is required of any person conducting business in the city, with a narrow exemption for owners of two or fewer residential dwelling units. The Community Development Department (503-674-7230) is the city's designated point of contact for STR-specific operational questions because no codified STR permit exists.
TMC 8.24.050(A)(2) exempts commercial construction, street work, street repair, drilling, and demolition noise only when it occurs Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., or Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Outside those windows the noise is presumed unreasonable.
Leaf blowers are classified as 'domestic power tools' under TMC 8.24.020 and may only be operated between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. under TMC 8.24.050(A)(3). Troutdale does not ban gas-powered leaf blowers and does not require a decibel limit for residential yard equipment.
Amplified music, stereos, loudspeakers, and other sound-reproducing devices are governed by TMC Ch. 8.24. The chapter's 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. unreasonable-noise window applies, and TMC 8.24.050(A)(6) only protects constitutionally protected speech when it is not plainly audible inside a neighboring noise sensitive unit.
Troutdale contracts animal nuisance enforcement to Multnomah County Animal Services, headquartered at 1700 W Historic Columbia River Hwy in Troutdale. Under Multnomah County Code 13.305(B)(5), a dog is a nuisance if it makes continuous noise for at least 10 minutes or intermittent noise for at least 30 minutes.
Troutdale Municipal Code Chapter 8.24 sets quiet hours of 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Under TMC 8.24.035, noise is unreasonable during those hours if it is plainly audible inside any noise sensitive unit that is not the source. Enforcement is by the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office.
Aircraft noise in Oregon is preempted by federal law and ORS Chapter 836, which gives the Oregon Department of Aviation regulatory authority over airports. Local ordinances cannot restrict overflight noise or set in-air sound limits.
Oregon DEQ adopted statewide industrial noise standards under OAR 340-035-0035, setting maximum allowable decibel limits for new and existing industrial sources. While DEQ enforcement was defunded in 1991, the rules remain on the books and are referenced statewide.
Troutdale does not impose California-style numeric defensible-space distances around homes, but the Oregon Fire Code adopted by Troutdale Municipal Code (TMC) Chapter 15.12 includes general weed, grass, and combustible-vegetation provisions, and TMC Title 8 (Health and Safety) Chapter 8.28 (Nuisances) treats overgrown vegetation and accumulated combustibles as nuisances subject to abatement. Most of Troutdale is mapped within the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) per Multnomah County hazard planning.
Most of Troutdale is mapped within the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) per the Multnomah County Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan, primarily because of proximity to the Sandy River corridor, the Columbia River Gorge (site of the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire), and surrounding rural forested areas. Wildfire rules in Troutdale operate through the Oregon Fire Code adopted by Troutdale Municipal Code (TMC) Chapter 15.12, Oregon's statewide Wildfire Hazard Map and SB 762 building-code provisions, and seasonal East Multnomah County burn bans rather than through a separately codified city wildfire-zone ordinance.
Troutdale follows Oregon state fireworks law (ORS 480.110-480.165) — only state-legal consumer fireworks may be used, and any device that flies, explodes, or travels more than 6 feet on the ground or 12 inches into the air is illegal statewide. Fireworks of any kind are prohibited in all Troutdale city parks under Troutdale Municipal Code (TMC) Section 13.20.250. Violations of state fireworks law can carry fines up to $2,500 plus seizure of illegal devices.
Outdoor burning in Troutdale is regulated under the Oregon Fire Code adopted by Troutdale Municipal Code (TMC) Chapter 15.12 and is subject to the East Multnomah County burn line at 503-618-3083, which residents must call before any outdoor burning. During seasonal burn bans, all open burning — campfires, fire pits, yard debris, and agricultural burning — is prohibited; only propane and charcoal cooking BBQs remain allowed. Yard debris burning in particular is heavily restricted in the Portland metro airshed.
Troutdale regulates recreational fires through its adoption of the Oregon Fire Code in Troutdale Municipal Code (TMC) Chapter 15.12 — most recently updated by Ordinance 890 in June 2024. Fire protection services are provided by Gresham Fire & Emergency Services, which serves Troutdale, Fairview, and Wood Village under contract. Outdoor burning, including recreational fires, is also subject to seasonal burn bans coordinated through the East Multnomah County Burn Line at 503-618-3083.
TMC Chapter 6.08 (adopted by Ord. 865, 2020) allows up to six hens with a permit on any Troutdale lot. Roosters are banned. Coops must sit in the rear yard, 15 feet from neighboring dwellings, with runs 3 feet off property lines.
Troutdale adopted Multnomah County's animal control code by Ordinance 666 (1998). MCC 13.305(B)(1) prohibits dogs at large; MCC 13.002 defines a dog as 'at large' if not restrained by a leash, tether, or device no longer than eight feet under control of a capable person.
Troutdale has no breed-specific legislation. Oregon state law does not restrict specific breeds. Dangerous dog declarations are based on behavior under ORS 609. Multnomah County Animal Services handles dangerous dog matters.
Troutdale has no city beekeeping ordinance. The Multnomah County animal code (adopted by Ord. 666) excludes bees from its livestock definition. State law (ORS 602) requires apiary registration with the Oregon Department of Agriculture at five or more colonies.
Troutdale follows Oregon state law (ORS 609.305) prohibiting most exotic animals without a pre-2010 ODA permit. Wild animals cannot be kept as pets. Multnomah County Animal Services enforces animal control for Troutdale.
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.
Oregon prosecutes animal hoarding under ORS 167.325 through 167.333, with felony charges available when 11 or more animals are involved or domestic animals are neglected. The criminal framework applies in every county.
Troutdale maintains an official Nuisance Plants list (40+ species removable without environmental review) and a Prohibited Plants list (Scot's Broom, English Ivy, Purple Loosestrife, Reed Canarygrass, Himalayan Blackberry) banned from all reviewed landscaping. Persistent infestations are abated under TMC Chapter 8.28.
TMC Chapter 13.10 (Troutdale Tree Ordinance) requires a permit from the Director of Community Development to remove any street tree, or to remove any tree six inches in diameter or larger on undeveloped or underdeveloped property. No permit is needed to remove trees on developed property.
Troutdale requires trees to be trimmed to 7 feet above sidewalks. Street trees require a permit from Troutdale Public Works (Parks Division) before pruning or removal. Private property tree trimming does not require a permit under standard conditions.
Under TMC Chapter 8.28 (Nuisances), any grass or weeds 14 inches or taller is a public nuisance that must be cut or mowed. The Code Compliance Office enforces the rule at 503-491-4009. Persistent overgrowth can be abated by the city with costs assessed to the property.
Troutdale has no mandatory watering schedule or drought-stage outdoor watering ordinance. The city's domestic water comes from city-owned wells tapping deep aquifers, with emergency inter-ties to Gresham, Fairview, and Wood Village. Public Works promotes voluntary conservation through the Regional Water Providers Consortium.
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.
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.
Troutdale does not require a permit for a residential fence under 4 feet in a front yard or 7 feet in a side or rear yard that meets the TDC 5.040 clear vision standards. Electric and pool fences have their own permit triggers under TDC 5.050.
TDC 5.050 caps residential fences at 4 feet in any required front yard setback and 7 feet in side or rear setbacks. Commercial and industrial lots are capped at 3.5 feet in front and 6 feet in side or rear. All fences must meet TDC 5.040 clear vision standards.
Troutdale follows Oregon's boundary fence statute (ORS 97.130). Fences must not encroach on the public right-of-way. Property surveys are recommended before building near boundaries. Clear vision areas at street intersections must be maintained.
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.
Troutdale home occupations must not change the residential character of the property. Exterior commercial signs are generally prohibited to maintain residential appearance. Any signs must comply with Troutdale's sign code and Development Code standards.
Troutdale allows home occupations as an accessory use in residential zoning districts under Troutdale Development Code (TDC) Chapter 5.100 (Home Occupations), administered by Community Development. A home occupation is defined as a lawful occupation carried on in a dwelling by a resident of the dwelling where the occupation is secondary to the main use of the property as a residential dwelling. The TDC requires the use to remain clearly incidental and subordinate to the residential character of the property, conducted by household residents, with no external evidence of the business and no off-site impacts (noise, traffic, parking, signage beyond what is allowed). A Troutdale business license under Title 5 of the City Code is also required regardless of the home-occupation zoning approval.
Troutdale home occupation rules under Development Code Chapter 5.100 require that business activities not generate traffic beyond normal residential levels. Customer visits that materially alter traffic patterns or neighborhood character may require a conditional use permit.
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.
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.
Troutdale requires building and electrical permits for in-ground pool installation. Oregon Residential Specialty Code sets standards for all pool installations. Pool barriers must comply with ORSC Appendix G. Contact Troutdale Permit Services for requirements.
Above-ground pools in Troutdale must meet ORSC Appendix G barrier requirements even when no structural permit is required. Ladders/steps must be lockable or removable. Pools must comply with Troutdale Development Code zoning setbacks.
Swimming pool barriers in Troutdale always require a building permit. Oregon Residential Specialty Code Appendix G requires a 4-foot minimum barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates opening away from the pool. Contact Troutdale Permit Services for application.
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.
Troutdale does not adopt a separate municipal juvenile curfew; it enforces the Oregon statewide curfew under ORS 419C.680. No minor under 18 may be in any street, highway, park, alley, or other public place between 12:00 midnight and 4:00 a.m. without a qualifying exception.
Under Troutdale Municipal Code Ch. 13.20, city parks are open daily 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. from April through September and 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from October through March. Outside those hours the park is closed and any person present is subject to ejection by parks staff or police.
Troutdale operates a municipal stormwater system under an NPDES Phase II MS4 General Permit issued by Oregon DEQ. Storm sewer rules are codified in Troutdale Municipal Code (TMC) Chapter 12.06 (Storm Sewer System) and erosion and sediment control in TMC Chapter 12.09. The Public Works Department's Stormwater Services Division responds to spills and illicit discharges; report a spill via 503-674-3300 (business hours) or 503-251-4163 (after-hours emergency).
Troutdale participates in the FEMA National Flood Insurance Program and regulates development in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) under Troutdale Development Code Chapter 14 (Flood Management), adopted by Ordinance 851 on January 17, 2019. SFHAs cover about 3% of the city — primarily along the Sandy River and Beaver Creek. Chapter 14 requires a 2-foot freeboard above base flood elevation for new and substantially improved residential structures, plus balanced cut-and-fill and engineer certification of no-rise.
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.
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.
Troutdale has not enacted a city-level just-cause eviction ordinance, but Oregon's statewide just-cause regime under Senate Bill 608 (2019), codified at ORS 90.427, applies to every residential tenancy in the city after the first year of occupancy. ORS 90.427 prohibits no-cause termination of any month-to-month tenancy after the first 12 months of occupancy except on specified for-cause grounds (non-payment, material lease violation, repeat violations, outrageous conduct, etc.) or on specified qualifying landlord reasons (sale to a buyer who will occupy, landlord or family member occupancy, demolition or conversion, repair or renovation making the unit unsafe or unfit). Qualifying-landlord-reason terminations require a 90-day written notice and payment of one month's rent in relocation assistance unless the landlord is exempt (owner-occupants of a duplex who reside in one unit, and landlords of four or fewer dwelling units in the state).
Troutdale has no local rent-control ordinance, but Oregon's statewide rent-stabilization regime under Senate Bill 608 (2019), codified at ORS 90.323 and ORS 90.324, applies to every residential tenancy in the city. The statute caps annual rent increases at the lesser of 7% plus the published 12-month change in the West Region CPI-U or 10%. The Oregon Department of Administrative Services publishes the maximum allowable rent increase each fall; for calendar year 2026 the cap is 9.5% (7% + 2.5% CPI). Dwellings whose certificate of occupancy was issued less than 15 years before the rent increase are exempt. Subsidized affordable units are governed by their separate regulatory agreements.
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.
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 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 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.
ORS 653.025 sets a three-tier statewide minimum wage and ORS 653.017 preempts cities and counties from adopting different local minimums.
ORS 653.601 mandates paid sick leave statewide, and Paid Leave Oregon under ORS Chapter 657B provides paid family and medical leave benefits.
ORS 653.412 to 653.485 require large retail, food, and hospitality employers to provide advance schedules and predictability pay.
Oregon issues concealed handgun licenses through county sheriffs under ORS 166.291, with statewide eligibility, training, and reciprocity standards.
Oregon law preempts most local firearm regulation but permits limited city and county rules in public buildings and on adjacent grounds.
Open carry of firearms is generally lawful in Oregon, but limited local ordinances may restrict loaded carry in incorporated public places.
Oregon allows firearms in private vehicles, but concealed loaded handguns inside a vehicle generally require a concealed handgun license under ORS 166.250.
Oregon does not mandate E-Verify use by private employers and has no statewide statute requiring electronic employment eligibility verification beyond federal I-9 rules.
Oregon enacted the nation's oldest statewide sanctuary law, ORS 181A.820, barring state and local agencies from using resources to enforce federal civil immigration law.
ORS Chapter 215 establishes Exclusive Farm Use zones that limit non-farm development and preserve agricultural land statewide.
ORS 30.930 to 30.947 protect farm and forest practices from most nuisance and trespass claims when conducted on land zoned for those uses.
HB 2509 bans most single-use plastic checkout bags statewide and requires a minimum charge for paper or thicker reusable bags at retailers.
SB 543 prohibits restaurants and food vendors from using polystyrene foam containers and bans the sale of polystyrene foam packing peanuts statewide.
ORS 459A.876 limits when restaurants and convenience stores may distribute single-use plastic straws, requiring customer request first.
Oregon prohibits the sale or distribution of tobacco and inhalant delivery systems to anyone under age 21 under ORS 431A.175.
Oregon has no statewide flavored tobacco ban, but ORS 431A.190 authorizes counties and cities to adopt stricter local tobacco rules.
Oregon licenses tobacco and inhalant delivery system retailers and bans online or mail-order sales of vapor products to consumers.