Overview
Portland is governed by Multnomah County and operates under Oregon's wood-smoke rules administered by Oregon DEQ and the Metropolitan Clean Air Authority (formerly METRO). Wood-burning curtailment days occur during fall and winter temperature inversions. Portland has a strong outdoor living culture and is one of Oregon's key markets for wood-fired pizza ovens and outdoor fireplaces.
Building Permits in Portland
Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS). Apply at portlandoregon.gov/bds or call 503-823-7300. Portland has a detailed online permitting portal. Permanent masonry fire features require a building permit. Portable features do not. Gas connections require a mechanical permit and licensed contractor.
Oregon DEQ Wood Smoke Program
Oregon DEQ administers wood-smoke curtailment for the Portland metro under the Air Quality Index (AQI) system. During winter months with poor air quality, Oregon DEQ and Multnomah County issue no-burn days prohibiting wood burning in residential fireplaces, fire pits, and wood stoves. Check the Oregon DEQ Air Quality page at oregon.gov/deq or the AirNow.gov app for current conditions and forecasts. Sign up for alerts at Oregon DEQ's website.
Oregon's New Wood Heater Rule
Oregon has adopted rules restricting the installation of new solid-fuel heating devices (wood stoves, fireplaces) in certain air quality non-attainment areas. These rules primarily target heating appliances; outdoor cooking features (pizza ovens, fire pits) are generally addressed differently, but verify with Oregon DEQ and Portland BDS if you're planning a wood-burning installation in an affected area.
Department Contacts
| Department | Contact | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Portland Bureau of Development Services | portlandoregon.gov/bds / 503-823-7300 | Building permits |
| Portland Fire & Rescue Prevention | portlandoregon.gov/fire / 503-823-3700 | Fire code |
| Oregon DEQ Air Quality | oregon.gov/deq / 503-229-5696 | No-burn days, wood smoke rules |