Q: Who administers Portland’s Historic Preservation Ordinance and how difficult is the review process?
A: Portland’s historic preservation ordinance is administered by the City of Portland Planning Department. Minor revisions, including signs and awnings, require only department staff review. More significant alterations are reviewed by the Historic Preservation Board, a volunteer board appointed by the City Council. A workable solution to the applicant’s needs can usually be found and approved. The Planning Department staff and the Historic Preservation Board work with the applicant to find a good solution that meets the applicant’s needs and the ordinance standards.