Bureau of Development Services

Sep 12, 2011

Builders, appraisers shine light on murky ADU market

The concept of an accessory dwelling unit may be straightforward, but that doesn鈥檛 mean development is a simple process.

Jul 22, 2011

Thank goodness, another Starbucks!

According to design review documents filed with the Bureau of Development Services, Starbucks is planning to put in a new location at Southwest Fourth Avenue and Morrison Street, in the historic S. H. Kress Building.

Jul 20, 2011

Portland agency hiring again after big cuts

After laying off 150 employees in 2009, Portland鈥檚 Bureau of Development Services plans to bring back some former staffers by making seven recently added temporary positions permanent and creating 11.5 other positions.

May 12, 2011

Fee increase planned by Portland Bureau of Development Services

The City of Portland Bureau of Development Services has announced plans to increase the majority of its fees by 8 percent starting July 1.

May 11, 2011

Apartment project pitched in the Pearl

A new mixed-use apartment building being proposed at the corner of Northwest 12th Avenue and Everett Street is making its way through approvals.

Jul 23, 2010

Portland BDS drops fax-back permitting

The Portland Bureau of Development Services will discontinue on July 30 the fax-back method of applying for and receiving simple trade permits.

Jul 15, 2010

BDS wants new electronic permitting system

Portland's Bureau of Development Services has asked to borrow $5.2 million from the city to buy a new electronic permitting system, which officials say would save the department time and money.

Jul 7, 2010

Inspection delays costing contractors money

Staff cuts to Portland's Bureau of Development Services have hurt the department's response time to construction site inspections. Some contractors have become so fed up with the delays - which cost them money and time - that they look for work outside Portland first.

May 27, 2010

Portland BDS to cut 17 jobs

Portland's Bureau of Development Services will cut 17 full-time jobs and cut its service times, bureau spokesman Ross Caron said Thursday. The cuts take effect June 1.

May 17, 2010

Permit and inspections fees could increase

Due to dire financial straits at Portland's Bureau of Development Services, the bureau plans to increase all fees associated with permit reviews and inspections by 8 percent for fiscal year 2010-11. It will also reduce its staff by 17 positions at the end of the month.

Mar 10, 2010