Base Zones
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Source: Base Zones ↗ Last modified: Sun, 19 Apr 2026 20:05:36 GMT
Base zones are shown as a combination of capital letters and numbers on a zoning map.
Base zones state two purposes:
- What uses are allowed on the property
- The required development standards that apply (such as maximum height and required setbacks)
There are five categories of base zones ↗:
- Single-dwelling residential zones
- Multi-dwelling residential zones
- Commercial or mixed use zones
- Employment and industrial zones
- Campus institutional zones
How the property is used
A “use” is essentially how the property is used. Some uses are allowed by right, while other uses are limited or require a conditional use review. Finally, some uses are prohibited and are not allowed in the zone at all.
To determine in what zones a specific use may be located, you must first determine what land use category it is in. Use Chapter 33.920 ↗, Descriptions of the Use Categories, to classify the specific use.
For example, a clothing store is classified as a retail sales and service use and a dry cleaning shop is classified as an industrial services use.
Once you have determined the appropriate use category, review the primary use tables in the Use Categories ↗ handout or in the below base zone links to see the status of that category to determine whether the use is allowed, limited, conditional or prohibited.
If the proposed use is allowed by the base zone, you will also need to find out if the site is subject to additional uses from an Overlay Zone ↗, Plan District ↗, or Additional Use and Development Regulations ↗.
Development standards
Development standards are set by the zone.
Development standards regulate development on a site by the size, bulk, and location of the development.
Development standards can include maximum allowed height, setbacks, and allowed density.
First, find the zoning on your property
Search your address on PortlandMaps.com ↗. Under the property details, you'll find the zoning.
For more detailed instructions, go to Find Zoning Regulations and Zoning Maps ↗.
Then find the allowed uses and development standards for your zone
Review the applicable zoning code chapter and the development standards tables or documents listed below.