In light of the recent cases profiled by the Portland Chronicle showing violation or exploitation of the demolition delay exemption criteria commonly known as the 24.55.200 K-1 exemption, we would like to note that this exemption was removed from the demolition code following City Council meetings in December and February.
However, as explained at a Development Review Advisory Committee meeting following City Council’s approval of revised amendments to the building code surrounding residential demolitions, the city has 60 days to prepare for implementation of the code.
The changes were approved by City Council Feb. 18, meaning April 20 is likely the first business day the new code amendments will be in effect. Until then, the exemption continues to be in place and widely utilized.
The exemption will be removed for houses within residential areas, but houses in commercial zones or with commercial Comprehensive Plan map designations, such as the house at 7805 S.E. 13th Ave., will not be subject to delay.
Download a copy of the incoming code changes from the City Auditor’s Office.