April 17, 2019

This morning, Council adopted a new Annual Permit for Temporary Arts and Cultural Events.

Small arts and culture organizations frequently want to host special events like performances, gallery and exhibition openings, and classes. But in the past, it was complicated and expensive for them to navigate the City process to get the necessary permits for larger gatherings.

The new annual permit streamlines the permit process for community events. Now, arts and culture organizations can apply for a temporary occupancy permit that allows for up to 90 special events in a year, with up to 75 occupants.

Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) will administer the permit and continue to maintain the City’s high standards for building and fire safety.

Special thanks to Mayor Wheeler, Commissioner Chloe Eudaly, and Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty for co-sponsoring our proposal; to Arts Affordability Fellow Tracy Schreiber and Senior Policy Director Jamie Dunphy on the Fish team; to Fire Marshall Nate Takara and Terry Whitehill with the Bureau of Development Services for their partnership; and to the many community leaders, local artists, and arts organizations for bringing this to light.