Give feedback on zoning code updates to help streamline development

A package of zoning code updates that aim to make it easier to understand and implement Portland's zoning code has been released for public review and comment. The Regulatory Improvement Code Amendment Package 11 (RICAP 11) Discussion Draft contains the most recent in an ongoing series of updates and improvements to Portland's land use regulations. The RICAP 11 Discussion Draft is being shared with community members to solicit their input before staff makes an official proposal to the Planning Commission and City Council.

What's included in the Discussion Draft?

The RICAP 11 package considers more than 50 items for possible regulatory improvement. These items are bundled to align with three themes: parking and loading, exterior areas, and general regulatory improvement.

Parking and loading

These 10 amendments clarify and update the requirements for vehicle and bicycle parking. These include allowing parking in residential setbacks in some cases and updating the conditions that trigger bike parking upgrades.

Exterior areas

The 16 exterior area amendments modify the regulations of exterior improvements to a site. These include permitted uses of outdoor areas, landscaping requirements and guidance for limited uses.

Regulatory improvement

These 30 amendments cover an array of topics with a focus on eliminating obsolete and unnecessary regulations. These amendments will also clarify rules to make the permitting process easier. The amendments range from changing outdoor shelter allowances to clarifying use category descriptions.

Give feedback

Portlanders are invited to review these code amendments and provide comments on the project's Map App through Friday, July 18.

Review the RICAP 11 Discussion Draft

Next steps and learn more

Public feedback will inform a revised draft, also known as the Proposed Draft, which the Planning Commission will consider later this fall. Portlanders will have an opportunity to further shape the project in testimony to the Planning Commission and later to City Council.

Sign up for project updates - Enter your email address and check the box next to Regulatory Improvement Code Amendment Packages (RICAP) to receive email updates on the project and notifications of upcoming hearings and project milestones.

Learn more about RICAP 11 by visiting the project's webpage.