Portland Zoning & Land Use Guide
Last updated: Verified:
Key Zoning Facts
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Portland
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
State — Oregon
- Building Code: Oregon Structural Specialty Code (2021 IBC)
- State ADU Override: Yes (HB 2001 / SB 458 - Cities over 2,500 must allow ADUs; no owner-occupancy or parking mandates)
County — Multnomah County
- Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning
City / Municipal
The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Primary Zoning Districts
| District Code | Name | Min Lot | Max Height | Front Setback | Side Setback | Rear Setback | FAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R5 | Residential 5,000 | 5,000 sq ft | 30 ft | 10 ft | 5 ft | 5 ft | — |
| RM1 | Residential Multi-Dwelling 1 | None | 35 ft | 10 ft | 5 ft | 5 ft | — |
| CM2 | Commercial/Mixed Use 2 | None | 55 ft | 0 ft | 0 ft | 0 ft | — |
ADU Rules in Portland
ADUs:Allowed
- Max Size
- 800 sq ft or 75% of primary dwelling
- Max Height
- 20 ft
- Rear Setback
- 5 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Parking
- None required (per state law)
- Owner Occupancy
- Not required (per state law)
- Permit Timeline
- 4-8 weeks
Official Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Portland?
Yes. Oregon state law (HB 2001) requires Portland to allow ADUs in all residential zones. No owner-occupancy or additional parking is required. Portland has been a national leader in ADU construction.
How do I find the zoning for my property in Portland?
Use the Portland Maps tool at portlandmaps.com or contact the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability at (503) 823-7700.
What zones allow multi-family housing in Portland?
Multi-family housing is allowed in RM1 through RM4, RX, CM, CX, and CE zones. HB 2001 also requires duplexes be allowed in all single-family zones.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Zoning codes and building regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local planning department and building authority before making any decisions.