Portland approves Public Infrastructure Environmental Code Project
On March 11, 2026, the Portland City Council voted unanimously to approve the Public Infrastructure Environmental Code Project, which amends environmental overlay zone (ezone) regulations to facilitate the replacement of public infrastructure and the management of vegetation in natural areas.
The Public Infrastructure Environment Code Project establishes new standards for important public infrastructure projects so they can be approved without undue process, while also ensuring the preservation of natural resources. These standards are designed to improve wildlife habitat and minimize wildfire risk.
The project also included updates and improvements to the revegetation fund and allowances for the construction of accessory dwelling units with reduced street setbacks on sites that contain ezones. These changes will provide more flexible and streamlined approval pathways for development on sites with ezones.
