Demolitions and Major Residential Alterations and Additions
As of February 10, 2020, new Interim Administrative Rules for the City of Portland Residential Building Demolition program are in effect.
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality adopted new asbestos regulations in fall 2018. DEQ now requires all houses and other residential buildings constructed prior to 2004 to have an asbestos survey conducted by an accredited inspector prior to demolition and renovation activities, with one exception. Owner-occupants doing their own home renovation work are exempt from this rule. This exemption does not apply when the residence is going to be demolished.
When BDS receives a permit application to demolish a one or two family structure, various criteria are applied to determine if a delay is required.
Dust and site control measures are now required for demolitions of structures used for residential purposes with four or fewer dwelling units.
Information on the new Major Residential Alteration and Addition permit has been developed and outlines what a Major Residential Alteration and Addition permit is and what notification and delay requirements apply.
Asbestos abatement and structural demolition activities may discharge asbestos and lead paint particulates as well as other pollutants that are prohibited from entering the City stormwater system, but may be authorized to enter the sanitary sewer system.
The map includes demolition permit activity for single family dwelling and duplex demolitions by year back to 2005.
If a one or two family dwelling is a historic or conservation landmark or is located in a historic resource overlay zone, it may be subject to additional notification and delay requirements under the Zoning Code.
To request a change to the City Codes that BDS administers and enforces, send us an email and choose “Code Change Recommendation” in the subject menu.
The purpose of this website is to gather comments, questions, suggestions and concerns regarding the Residential Demolition and Major Residential Alteration and Addition Ordinance.
