Portland Development Code Updates

This week’s topic is the City of Portland’s new provisions to the residential zoning code that will be made effective in August of 2021. These provisions greatly reduces the size of new homes and additions. There is a concern that the rollout of these code changes will catch homeowner's and design professionals off guard. 

The code is still in a draft version and the city hasn't officially provided guidance surrounding the code. Additionally, the lack of guidance creates significant challenges to projects that are currently in design, but will be permitted after the August 1st effective date. AIA Oregon is preparing a position letter to the Portland City Council stating both concerns and solutions surrounding the rollout of this code update.