October 29, 2026
HBA Input Slows Down Portland Building Emissions Standards Process
A controversial Climate and Health Standards policy for commercial buildings in Portland will take more time in committee before Council review after the HBA partnered with regional business organizations, including the Portland Metro Chamber, Portland Metro Association of Realtors, and Multifamily Northwest, to urge Councilors to slow down.
The Climate and Health Standards policy for existing buildings has been championed by Housing and Permitting Committee Chair Councilor Candace Avalos. The policy would apply to commercial buildings and multifamily buildings of four or more units that are 20,000 square feet or larger. Under the proposal, covered buildings would have to cut greenhouse gas emissions 20% every five years starting in 2030, reaching zero by 2050, with a carbon pollution impact fee for buildings that miss those targets. You can view the full proposed policy here.
At its October 20 hearing, the Housing and Permitting Committee continued the discussion to December 1. While this doesn’t mean the conversation around these onerous guidelines is over, it does mean the November election could change the calculus on support if this policy is referred to the full Council for adoption.
If you’d like to engage on the topic at a future Housing and Permitting Committee meeting, reach out at governmentaffairs@hbapdx.org.