Height and floor area ratios (FAR) are changing on some properties around the Central City.

A set of height and FAR maps are available below. To explore an interactive map, visit the Map App. Click on the Built Form button at the top of the map for height and FAR changes.

The documents below are excerpts from Volume 2A Part 1 which includes proposed changes to zoning code chapter 33.510 Central City Plan District. 

Height Proposal

Floor Area Ratio Proposal

What are Base and Bonus Height Maps and Floor Area Ratios (FAR)?

The City sets base and bonus height limits to regulate how tall buildings can be. These heights are established based on public expectations for the preservation of scenic views from public places, ensuring sunlight in open spaces and the Willamette River, and reducing height near lower density residential areas.

Base heights are the allowable heights. Bonus heights are the maximum heights that can be built if additional FAR is earned by providing a public benefit such as affordable housing. 

Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is the relationship of buildable floor area (total amount of square feet) to a given site area (amount of land). Think of FAR as the volume of a building. FAR regulations tell you “how much” building you can create. This volume can be shaped to create taller narrower buildings or lower wider buildings. FAR scales to the site, so 3:1 FAR for a 20,000 square foot site would allow 60,000 square feet of development, whereas 3:1 FAR for a 40,000 square foot site would allow for 120,000 square feet. More floor area means more residents, employees or customers are expected to use that space.