Many activities require approval, review or permits from the Land Use Planning, Right-of-Way or Solid Waste & Recycling permit offices. When these steps are not taken, a code violation may occur.

County land use, right-of-way, and solid waste & recycling codes cover a range of activities. They may protect the public, wildlife, environmental areas, scenic views, wetlands, floodplains, and more.

Code Violations

Some examples of activities 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

Additionally, some types of development or use are prohibited in our jurisdiction. Examples include:

  • Short-term rental of an an entire house or 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 business in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Codes and Regulations

Learn more about applicable regulations in unincorporated Multnomah County before you start work. 

Learn more about our process for resolving a code violation