Code Enforcement

Clackamas County Code Enforcement processes applications requesting a variance from the County noise ordinance. 

Determine if a variance is right for you.

Clackamas County Code Chapter 6.05 outlines how noise is enforced in unincorporated Clackamas County. Section 6.05.030 provides the general noise prohibitions, and Section 6.05.040 lists Noises Specifically Prohibited. 

The exempted noise activities are listed in County Code Section 6.05.060.

If your noise event is covered in the exemptions you do not need a variance. If the event is not included, you will need to apply for a variance.

A minimum of 10 business days’ notice prior to the event is required to apply for a Noise Variance

Prior to submitting a Noise Variance Request, both a “Notice of Noise Variance Request” template and an Affidavit template, need to be downloaded (downloadable templates below). After complete notices are distributed to all adjacent neighbors and an affidavit is signed, confirming this requirement was met, these documents will be uploaded in the “Request A Noise Variance Form” (below).

Variance Application Process

1. Applicant must download both the Notice of Noise Variance Request template and Affidavit template.
2. Applicant distributes completed notices to all adjacent neighbors and completes Affidavit.
3. Applicant submits a noise variance request, “Request A Noise Variance Form” (below) uploading both the completed notice and signed affidavit through the form (last question provides ability to upload).
4. Application is reviewed by Code Enforcement and approved/denied. The applicant will be notified of the decision via email within 10 days.

That’s it!

The applicant will receive the noise variance permit if approved. The application is not approved until all steps are completed.

If the application is denied, a denial letter will be emailed to the applicant.

Have additional questions? Please contact us 503-742-4452 or codeenforcement@clackamas.us.

The Code Enforcement Hearings Officer, an impartial third party contracted by the county, acts on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners in considering and applying regulatory enactments and policies set forth in Clackamas County Code related to the Zoning and Development Ordinance (ZDO), solid waste and waste management, building codes, noise control, excavating and grading, road use, abatement of dangerous buildings, chronic nuisance and graffiti.

In cases filed by the County with the Hearings Officer, the Hearings Officer’s decision shall be the County’s final determination. Judicial review of the Hearing Officer’s decision may be sought before the Clackamas County Circuit Court.

• Hearings are scheduled on the 2nd Tuesday, 4th Thursday and Wednesdays of each month as needed, and may be cancelled or postponed as cases evolve.
• Hearings will not begin before the time noted, but may begin later depending on the length of prior items.
• Any interested person may attend the hearing to listen or testify.
• To comply with current social distancing requirements, this code enforcement hearing will only be conducted virtually using the Zoom platform. One week before the hearing, a Zoom link to the code enforcement hearing and details on how to observe and testify online or by telephone will be available below next to the applicable file number.
• Please direct questions to the Code Enforcement Specialist, whose contact information is found by selecting the file number below.
• Clackamas County is committed to providing access and will make reasonable accommodations, modifications, or provide translation, interpretation or other services upon request. Please contact us at least three business days before the meeting at 503-742-4452 or email codeenforcement@clackamas.us. 
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