Zoning Permits
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Source: Zoning Permits ↗ Last modified: Sun, 19 Apr 2026 20:00:35 GMT
All building development in the city must comply with the Zoning Code, regardless of other codes and permit requirements. A zoning permit is a permit for development that does not require a building permit.
Zoning permits verify that development complies with the Portland Zoning Code (Title 33) ↗ and Tree Code (Title 11) ↗. These Titles have requirements such as environmental and design standards, window and garage requirements, tree removal, planting and preservation, building coverage, building height, and setbacks.
When a zoning permit is required
- Creating a new or enlarged parking area or driveway, or paving a graveled parking area.
- Making any improvement required to resolve a code compliance case or demonstrate zoning compliance when development does not require a building permit, such as tree planting to meet tree density prior to land use approval.
- Development that does not require a building permit but is required by a condition of a land use review ↗ approval, such as a historic resource review approval, design review approval, or an environmental review approval.
- Proposing development that does not require a building permit but requires zoning compliance within some Plan Districts or Overlay Zones ↗—such as Environmental ↗ overlay zones.
- Example: building a patio or deck in the environmental zones.
When a zoning permit is optional
For work that does not require a building permit, is not required by a land use condition of approval or to show compliance with a land use requirement, and is not in an overlay zone or plan district that restricts or limits the development.
Examples include:
- Build a fence up to seven feet high in compliance with Zoning Code requirements for fences
- Pave a walkway
- Build a patio or deck not more than 30 inches above grade
- Put up a small detached accessory building (such as a shed, garage, or carport) that is smaller than one which requires a residential building permit.
- Note: These buildings will count toward the building coverage and floor area limits in every zone; whether or not they are large enough to require a building permit.
- Repave a driveway where no expansion is proposed
Get help from a city planner before starting a project
Please call General Inquiries at 503-823-7300.
If you leave a message please include your name, the property address, your basic questions, and a call-back number for us to reach you.
A planner will return your call and help you determine the following:
- What types of plans you will need to submit with your zoning permit application
- If there are any specific requirements
- If the project requires a land use review before it may proceed
Planning and Zoning staff will help you understand the permit process and figure out next steps.