System Development Charges (SDCs)
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Source: System Development Charges (SDCs) ↗ Last modified: Sun, 19 Apr 2026 20:05:45 GMT
Label: Fees
Permits for newly created housing units issued from Aug. 15, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2028, may be exempt from system development charges (SDCs) under certain conditions. Learn more about those exemptions and whether they may apply to your project ↗.
SDC forms
Submit the appropriate SDC form when you apply for your building permit.
When you might pay SDCs
You may have to pay SDCs when:
- Adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU)
- Building an addition to commercial floor area
- Building a new or adding square feet to residential or commercial occupancy
- Creating a new, redeveloped impervious area
- Increasing the number of plumbing fixture units
- Increasing the size of a water meter
- Increasing volume to existing connections
- Proposing new stormwater or sanitary connections
- There is a change of use or occupancy
For special projects like micro units or shared kitchens, contact us. We will help you verify the correct fee.
SDCs by service
Bureau SDC rates
Why
Charges cover the cost of increased use. The charges reimburse Environmental Services for the infrastructure necessary for development.
Portland Parks and Recreation ↗
Charges help cover the cost of parks and recreation facilities for new development.
Charges cover the cost of transportation facilities for new development and its users.
Charges cover the cost of water facilities for new development and its users.
Please click on the links above for information on current SDCs.
Payment methods
We will notify you if any SDCs apply to your development.
For all system development charges (SDCs)
- Pay by cash, check, money order, or credit card when we issue a building permit.
- Water SDCs are due when you pay for water services. Pay by check, money order, or credit card.
- You may transfer SDC credits (contact respective bureaus for more information).
Defer payment plan
- The deferral period depends on the project value.
- You will need to sign a deferral contract.
- Interest will gain at the City’s interim rate during the deferral period.
- You must pay the interest and deferred amount at the end of the period.
- There is a non-refundable $50.00 finance fee.
Loan payment plans
- Pay SDCs in monthly or bi-annual installments over 5, 10, or 20 years.
- Complete and sign an installment contract to apply.
Deferral and loan terms
- The City secures loans or deferrals by placing a lien on the property.
- The lien remains until the SDCs are paid in full.
- A non-refundable processing fee covers the set-up cost of the loan or deferral.
- The property owner of record must sign the installment contract.
- A non-refundable fee applies to set up the loan or deferral.