Site Selection and Real Estate

Locating and Setting Up Your Business

Be sure the location you choose for your business is properly zoned for your business activity. If you are considering acquiring a building or piece of property for your business there are several factors that should be taken into consideration.

When determining your business site, be sure to research the following:

• How is the property zoned?
• How is the building use classified?
• What uses are legally allowed within the guidelines of Portland’s zoning code?
• Will I be required to make improvements to bring the facility up to code?
• Is the site within a special district or part of an approved neighborhood plan?
• What are parking and landscaping requirements?
• Will a change of occupancy be necessary?
• Will I need a permit to make improvements, or remodel?
• Will I need to make seismic improvements?

Many of the answers to these questions can be found by accessing the information at PortlandMaps. You can also contact the City of Portland’s Bureau of Development Services at 503-823-7300 who can answer questions regarding allowed uses and requirements. Some common questions for small businesses regarding building permits can found here, and for larger projects the Bureau of Development Services offers devTeam Portland, a group of bureau employees known as Development Liaisons who are committed to helping customers navigate the City permitting and construction process.

Other building issues to consider when choosing a building location include:

• Will I need to make changes to comply with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA)?

Information concerning the American with Disabilities Act can be found at U.S. Department of Justice site here. Additional information about ADA and Oregon State laws can be found at the State of Oregon’s Bureau of Labor and Industries here.

• Can I put up a sign?

A permit is required for all signs in Portland, including portable signs. Information regarding sign permits is found on the Bureau of Development Services web site here.

• Will I need to pay System Development Charges?

If you are applying for a building permit for development in the City of Portland, system development charges (SDCs) may apply to your project. SDCs are one-time feesbased on the proposed new use or increase in use of a property. They apply to both new construction and residential projects that increase impact to city infrastructure. Information about SDC can be found on the following page and this brochure.