The Plans Examiner • News from Portland Permitting & Development
May 2025

Portland Permitting & Development proposes fee changes, effective July 1, 2025

Learn more about the proposed fee changes and how you can share your views.

Related: Follow these requirements to submit a permit application under fees in effect before July 1

Notice of Permanent Administrative Rule - Transient Lodging Facilities

The purpose of this administrative rule is to guide implementation of Chapter 24.31 of Portland City Code. This chapter governs transient lodging facilities within the City of Portland. Comments on this rule are due by Monday, June 9.

Residential batch permits now reviewed through ProjectDox

Permits for three or more one- or two-family residential dwellings, submitted on the same plan set at one time, are now evaluated in the City's online plan review system to improve the customer experience.

Learn more about building garages, sheds and accessory structures

Get the requirements for a permit to build or alter an accessory building on a lot with a 1-2 family home. These buildings, such as garages and sheds, are not heated and not used for living. Get all the forms you need and apply for a permit online.

Code Alignment Project proposes pausing upgrade requirements for building alterations and additions until Jan. 1, 2029

The project is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to improve the permitting process.

Governor Kotek, Mayor Wilson Announce 5,000 Unit Challenge

This early action from the Multifamily Housing Workgroup will bolster development of 5,000 units of housing.

What has the City been doing to address Portland’s housing shortage?

The Community and Economic Development service area is working across its teams and in partnership with others on innovative solutions to address Portland's housing shortage, increase affordable units, and streamline and simplify the homebuilding process.

Environmental Services requests public comment on proposed changes to public sewer and stormwater management user charges

Revisions are proposed to City policies that outline sanitary sewer and stormwater management user charges. These will not change the charges customers see on their utility bills. The public comment period is open through Tuesday, May 27.

Interim noise control rule on construction activities due to heat now in effect

Effective May 15, construction activities may begin at 6 a.m. Monday through Saturday without a noise variance when the temperature predicted by the National Weather Service is expected to exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit by 3 p.m.

New Oregon Energy Efficiency Specialty Code (OEESC) replaces 2021 edition

The new code is effective Jan. 1 with a six-month phase-in period.

Architecture, trades and construction volunteers requested

Do you have professional architecture, construction, or trades skills and want to give back to community? We seek volunteers to assist homeowners and small businesses from the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) and disability communities to bring their properties up to code.

Upcoming public meetings and hearings

• Noise Review Board: Wednesday, May 21, 6 p.m.
• Historic Landmarks Commission: Friday, May 23, 9 a.m.
• Design Commission: Thursday, June 5, 1:30 p.m.
• Historic Landmarks Commission: Monday, June 9, 1:30 p.m.
• Planning Commission: Tuesday, June 10, 12:30 p.m.
• Design Commission: Thursday, June 12, 1:30 p.m.

Permitting & Development quick links

• Development Services Center
• 15-Minute Appointments: Free Building Permit and Zoning Help
• Request an Inspection (Online or by Phone)
• Search for Land Use Review Cases
• Search for Development Projects in Your Area
• Find Public Records
• Check Permit Timelines
• Check the Status of a Building Permit
• Apply or Pay for a Permit Online