The County Land Use and Right-of-Way codes cover a range of development activities and uses that require permits and/or zoning approval from the Land Use Planning and Right-of-Way permit offices. When County permit or approval has not been granted, or development is not consistent the permit that was issued, a code violation may occur.
Common Code Violations
Some examples of development or uses in unincorporated Multnomah County that require permits or approval include:
- Grading, excavation or fill, especially near rivers or wetlands
- New construction of a building or other structure, even if exempt from state building code requirements
- Addition to an existing building or structure
- Change in use of a permitted building or structure
- Commercial use of property or structure
- Farm stand and related promotional activity, or other agri-tourism event
- Posting a sign in the public right-of-way
- Work or development in the public right-of-way
- Adding or modifying a driveway or access point
- Providing garbage or recycling collection services
Prohibited Development and Use
Multnomah County Code is prescriptive. That means, it lists the activities and uses that could be approved in an area based on certain criteria. If a specific use or activity isn't listed for a base zone, then it's not permissible. Some examples of activities and uses that are not permissible in unincorporated Multnomah County include:
- Short-term rental of an an entire house or an any portion of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU)
- Accessory dwelling unit (ADU) constructed on property that is located outside of the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB)
- Certain fee-based promotional activities in conjunction with a farm stand permit, including weddings, corporate retreats, family reunions, anniversary gatherings, concerts, amusement park rides, or sporting events
- Marijuana businesses located within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area