We are beginning a multi-year project to audit, rewrite, and modernize Multnomah County's Zoning Code.
About the Project
The current code is not well organized. Its language is complex and confusing, and does not provide clear direction. The code has limited flexibility for minor changes, and it lacks provisions to address neighborhood concerns.
We are updating the code to:
- make it consistent with current laws and policies.
- make it clearer, more flexible and easier to use.
- improve operations and customer service, by limiting permit review times or easing some requirements.
- align the code with community priorities identified in our Comprehensive Plan.
- add clear and objective standards for most types of housing in unincorporated Multnomah County.
- provide clear and objective pathways, resulting in quicker, easier permitting while allowing for more discretionary options for those who desire them.
The improved code will be fairer, more accessible and more efficient. It will promote consistency with current laws and policies while addressing neighborhood concerns. It will provide clear and objective standards that apply to most types of housing developments.
Timeline
The project kicked off in January 2025, and will take about three years.
- Year 1: Address legal sufficiency, gather initial stakeholder input, and identify amendment and policy options.
- Year 2: Conduct broader community engagement, refine zoning issues and options, and agree on policy direction.
- Year 3: Draft, review and adopt code revisions.
Get Involved
We will be looking for input at various times throughout the process. Your input will help us identify and evaluate code amendment options and policy approaches. It will also help refine policy direction, and zoning issues and options.
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