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1. Are Fairview City Council meetings open to the public?

All meetings (with the exception of Executive Session meetings) are public meetings. City Council meetings are held on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 pm in the City Council Chambers.

2. Can a citizen address the Fairview City Council about an issue at their meetings?

All council meetings have an agenda item entitled non-agenda items. You may ask to be heard in this portion of the meeting. Your time will be limited depending upon the length of the overall meeting.

3. Where can I find a copy of the latest agenda for the Fairview City Council?

View current and past agendas for the Fairview City Council.

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1. What is backflow?

When backflow occurs, water runs backward through the water system. This water could contain something that might contaminate the drinking water supply. While we strive to maintain positive pressure in the system at all times, events such as main breaks and firefighting can contribute to backflow conditions.

2. What is a cross connection?

A cross connection is any connection between piping that carries drinking water (also known as potable water) and the piping or fixtures that carry other types of water or substances that are not safe to drink or may impact the taste or odor of water (also known as nonpotable water). Common cross connections include hot tubs, sprinkler, irrigation systems, and wells.

3. How do I prevent water heater thermal expansion?

You may need to protect your water heater from thermal expansion when you install a backflow prevention device at the water meter. This may be provided by the installation of a thermal expansion tank and a temperature and pressure relief valve. For more information, call us at 503-665-9320 or contact a licensed plumber.

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1. How long does it take to get a residential building permit?

The process time for a residential building permit is usually less than 10 business days, assuming the submitted information is complete and correct.

2. When I submit an application for a permit, when are the fees due?

An over-the-counter permit requires payment at the time of processing. Permits requiring plan review require a deposit when you submit the permit application and full payment at the time of issuance. Please call (503) 674-6206 if you need assistance determining fees.

3. What methods of payment are accepted for permit fees?

Currently, checks and cash are the only forms of payment accepted for permit fees.

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1. Why should I care about an undercount?

When people are not counted then it appears like they don’t live here. Then when we make plans for road improvements or to increase bus routes, areas with an undercount receive fewer services than they need for the actual population. Besides day-to-day services, during large natural disasters, population data from the Census Bureau is used to estimate evacuation and care needs. The data is also used to re-draw congressional boundaries, apportion seats in the federal House of Representatives, and re-distribute billions of tax dollars across the United States.  

2. Do I need a social security number?

No, you do not need a social security number or a state ID. You will be asked to give your name, birth date, and relationship to the head-of-household. The census is meant to count everyone—no matter your citizenship or resident status, everyone living in Oregon counts.  

3. What if we have 2 families living in one house?

That’s normal for our area and some people will have more than two families at one location. Some families will not want to share personal info with each other. Each family should select an adult to be the head-of-household and then together they should CALL THE CENSUS BUREAU OVER THE PHONE and explain that there are 2+ families that need to do the Census.

4. Who is the head-of-household?

The term ‘head-of-household’ has historically meant the oldest male in the home but traditional family configurations have changed. Your house will need to select an adult to be the head-of-household.

5. What if I live at a nursing home, group home, or I’m in a program?

If you live in a group setting, you will go through the GROUP ENUMERATION process.  Make sure to talk with the manager at your property to ensure they have scheduled a time with the Census Bureau to be counted in group enumeration. On average, 1 in 3 group settings do not participate in Group Enumeration and the people living on-site are not counted in the census.

6. What if I want to work with a translator or I know someone that needs a translator?

Many people requested translation services. Starting March 12, the Census bureau will provide live translation in 13 languages including SPANSIH, RUSSIAN, and SIMPLE CHINESE. The Cities of Fairview and Wood Village will provide telephone access to translation. Check the cities websites for more information.

7. I'm concerned about sharing personal information about my family.

The information provided to the Census BUREAU IS PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL. The Federal Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2015 ensures that your information and data are protected from external cybersecurity risks. Your name, address, and telephone number will never be disclosed or published.  Federal Law TITLE 13 protects everyone’s information. The Census BUREAU cannot share it with HOMEFORWARD, the POLICE, or IMMIGRATION Enforcement. Any violation is punishable by 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Every person, including children, and long-term guests need to be included on your census form.

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1. How often are city elections held?

The city follows state election laws governing special and general elections. Most city elections are held the first Tuesday in November.

2. Can anyone serve on city boards and commissions?

The city has different requirements for each board and commission, but the most common one is that you must be a resident of the City of Fairview. For more information, check out boards and commissions.

3. Can I subscribe to receive City Council meetings agendas?

Yes, you can subscribe to this type of information along with many others. Check out the Notify Me service.

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1. Is my business eligible for relief assistance even if I don’t have a City of Fairview utility account?

Yes, active businesses that have a business license in Fairview (or unincorporated Multnomah County served by Fairview utilities) are eligible (exclusions include apartment complexes, national corporations, and food processors).

2. My business is part of a complex and I do not pay the utility bill directly – is my business eligible for relief?

Yes. Even if you do not have a utility account, we encourage you to apply.  Assistance will be prorated based on the eligible businesses on the account.

3. I have a home based business – am I eligible to receive relief under this program?

No, home occupation businesses are not eligible; however, we encourage you to visit our Residential Relief Program page. You may apply for residential relief on behalf of your home based business.

4. Why are apartment complexes, national corporations, and food processors excluded?

Apartment complexes are excluded, as their tenants are already eligible for relief via the City of Fairview’s Residential Relief Program. The intent of the program is to assist those local businesses struggling the most during this pandemic. Because we anticipate national corporations and food processors have a higher likelihood of obtaining assistance elsewhere, they were excluded from Fairview’s program. Additionally, it is unlikely that even our largest available assistance of $1,000 would provide any significant relief to a business in this category.

5. Is there a deadline for when I need to submit an application for this program?

Yes. This assistance programs ends December 18, 2020. The City Council may revisit and extend it. We encourage you to submit your application early as there are limited funds available and if the demand is high applications will be funded on a first-come, first-served basis.

6. Can I include purchases I made to provide for protection of both my customers and employees from COVID-19 exposure and to comply with the Governors executive orders to calculate my loss in income?

Yes. The standard is net income. If these additional expenses resulted in your total net income being less than anticipated, you qualify for the relief.

7. Does my net loss need to exceed $1000 for me to receive the maximum financial relief?

Your loss in income needs to equal the payment you receive up to the $1000 limit. The actual relief is determined by the value of four months of utility service. If four months of utility service is $750 you must have an income loss of $750 to receive the full eligible amount.

8. Does my loss in income have to happen in a four month period?

No. It can happen any time during the period from March 16 to October 31. The key is to not submit your application for relief until your loss will allow you to receive the maximum financial assistance you are eligible for. This means you may need to delay applying until sometime in October.

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1. Am I eligible for relief assistance even if I don’t have a City of Fairview utility account?

Yes, as long as your residence is served by Fairview utilities.

2. I live in a duplex or apartment complex and my landlord pays the utilities – am I eligible?

Yes. We encourage you to apply. Any relief granted will be in the form of a check to be used to assist in paying your rent.

3. I’m a landlord with a property in Fairview. I pay the utility service – am I eligible for relief?

No, landlords are not eligible for relief. However, your tenants may apply and use the relief they receive toward their rent.

4. My spouse and I have both been negatively financially impacted by COVID-19 and have a Fairview utility account. Are we eligible for more than one relief award?

No, in order to assist the largest number of residents, the program is limited to one relief award per property (apartment complexes may receive multiple relief awards, but only one relief award per unit).

5. I was unemployed due to COVID-19. The unemployment I’ve been receiving from the State of Oregon and Federal Programs exceeds what I would have brought home had I been working. Am I still eligible?

No, since your lost income has been made up via alternate programs, you are not currently eligible.

6. Is there a deadline for when I need to submit an application for this program?

Yes. All applications must be received by 5:00 pm on June 30, 2022.   At that time, City Council may revisit the need for relief and may choose to extend the program, or they may choose not to extend it.   We encourage you to submit your application early as there are limited funds available. Demand for this program is expected to be high and applications will be funded on a first-come, first-served basis.  Should available funds be expended prior to June 30, 2022 and City Council decide not to increase the funds approved for the program, Round II would end on the date the approved funds have been exhausted (even if this is prior to June 30, 2022).

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1. What is an Enterprise Zone?

The Enterprise Zone program is a development tool to attract development, including higher wage jobs and higher capital investments, within the zone boundary. Eligible business firms meeting the required criteria receive 100% property tax abatement on any new, qualified investment within the zone boundary for three to five years.

2. Where can I find industrial properties available in Fairview?

Visit Oregon Prospector, www.OregonProspector.com, for detailed information about available industrial land and buildings available in Fairview or call Sarah Selden at 503-674-6242 for more information.

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1. What can I do if I cannot appear in Court on my scheduled day?

Contact the Court Clerk at 503-665-7929 for available options.

2. How much time do I have to pay my parking ticket?

Parking tickets are due 10 days from the dated cited, If you have three unpaid parking tickets, your car will be towed. All fines must be paid before your vehicle will be released

3. Will violations go on my driving record?

All convictions will show on your driving record except parking and ordinance violations.

4. How can I make payments?

Payments can be made in person at Fairview City Hall. Cash, check, money order or credit cards are accepted. You may mail payments by check or money order. Payments by credit card can be made over the phone by calling (503) 665-7929.

5. What if I cannot make it to court but want to see the judge?

You may send a written explanation and request that your court date be postponed. The judge will require a reasonable explanation as to why you need to reschedule.

6. May I take a driver's safety class as an alternative?

The Court Clerk may be able to offer a driver's safety class in order to keep the citation off your driving record. You must meet certain requirements. Please call the Court Clerk at (503) 665-7929 to check the requirements.

7. Do you offer payment agreements?

The court offers a 4-month payment agreement for anyone unable to make payment in full. The fee for the payment agreement will depend on the amount of your fine. If payment in full is made within 30 days from the date the agreement is signed, the fee can be waived.

8. What happens if I fail to comply with the terms of a payment agreement?

If you fail to make your payments on time, the court will void the agreement, add additional court fees, send the unpaid balance to our collection agency, and file a suspension with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Collection Agency - Vally Credit Services

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1. Do I need a permit to build a fence?

No, you do not need a permit to build a fence. Fences can be no taller than four feet if constructed within a front yard and no taller than six feet if constructed within a side or rear yard. The front yard is the area located between the front of a house and the front property line. The side yards are located along the side of a house behind the front façade of the house and the rear yard is located between the rear property line and back side of the house.

2. Do I need a permit to build a shed?

The size and height of the shed will determine whether or not a permit is required. All sheds and accessory structures are subject to the Fairview Municipal Code Section 19.30.110 (G). Please contact the city at (503) 674-6206 for additional information or questions.

3. Do I need a permit to remove a tree?

A permit is required to remove a street tree or a tree that is located within the right of way. Contact the Public Works Department at (503) 665-9320 for assistance or questions regarding the removal of a street tree.

A tree removal permit is required for trees that are located within natural resource areas. Contact the Planning Division at (503) 674-6206 for additional information.

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1. What are the approved street tree species in Fairview?

The answer depends on where your property is located.
Fairview Village requires specific trees on each street.
The South Fairview Lake Design Overlay area has two zones, with a different menu of trees available in each zone.
For the rest of Fairview, see the below link. Approved List - rest of Fairview

2. How do I plant a street tree?

Prior to planting any street tree, you must complete a free street tree permit application. You will also need to call 811 prior to digging to have all underground utilities marked.

3. Where can I get street trees?

Local nurseries are able to source most varieties of trees. In some cases, certain varieties will require a special order and advance notice is necessary to secure these trees.

4. When is the best time to plant?

In general, the best time to plant a tree is when it is dormant or beginning new growth. For most species, this means the period from January to March. Planting during this period also helps to reduce the need to water.

5. How do I maintain a new tree?

Trees should be watered weekly during the summer for the first two years after planting. This is the most important time for ensuring a tree’s long-term health. Trees that are not watered frequently during the first two years will become stressed – they will look healthy for a while, but with time, they will develop more disease and weaker limbs.

6. Can I remove a street tree?

Removal of street trees requires a permit from the City of Fairview. Street trees that are removed must be replaced with an approved street tree species. See the below link for the Street Tree Removal Permit Application. Street Tree Removal Permit Application

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1. The sidewalk in front of my home/business needs some work. Who is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk?

Adjacent property owners are responsible for maintaining sidewalks (and landscaping strips) along the street frontage(s) of their property. Obtain a Right of Way Permit if you plan to do any reconstruction of your sidewalk (and/or driveway approach).

2. I noticed a problem with the sidewalk in front of someone else’s property. Who should I notify?

Complaints regarding sidewalk defects should be directed to Public Works at 503-665-9320. City staff will then initiate a compliance action and require the adjoining property owner to correct the defect.

3. I noticed a problem (i.e. debris in the road, damaged signs, etc.) with a street in the City. How should I go about reporting it?

These problems should be reported directly to Public Works at 503-665-9320. If you know the problem is on a county road, you can contact Multnomah County directly at 503-988-5050.

4. Who should I contact regarding complaints/concerns about traffic signals?

Traffic signals in Fairview are maintained by Multnomah County. For issues related to traffic signals, call Public Works at 503-665-9320 or the County directly at 503-988-5050.

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1. Why is consumption so high?

Consumption may be high for many reasons. Maybe more people living in the household. During the summer, water consumption may be higher because you are watering the lawn or garden, or an outside hose may have been left on. In commercial situations, you may have water-cooled air conditioning, or your business may have increased or changed adding to water usage. Often, consumption may be high because of leaky plumbing.

2. How can I tell if I have any water leaks?

Be sure to check toilets at the property. Toilet leaks are most common and are hard to see or hear. Put food coloring in the toilet tank and wait 15 minutes. Do not flush the toilet during this time. If the coloring appears in the toilet bowl, there is a toilet leak. Also, if you hear the toilet refilling and no one has used it, there is a leak.

A major toilet leak can waste 800 cubic feet of water a day and can cost hundreds of dollars.

Also look for leaky faucets. A fast drip from a faucet could waste around 265 gallons a day. Repair leaky faucets and toilets promptly.

If you need help determining if there is a leak, please contact a plumbing contractor.

If a leak is found and repaired, please submit a Leak Adjustment Application. You may be eligible for a credit on your account.
Leak Adjustment Application

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1. What is an average monthly bill for a home in Fairview?

The combined minimum utility bill for an average, single family home in Fairview is $68.82 ($64.00 is for water, sewer, stormwater & fire suppression and $4.82 is for the public works facility fee). City of Fairview customers who utilize only the City’s sewer and stormwater services are billed on a bi-monthly basis and have an average bill of $99.54. Residential customers residing outside city limits are billed using an alternate rate. Please contact the utility billing office for information at 503-665-7929 ext. 1.

2. How are rates calculated?

Fairview’s utility rates are calculated based on what it costs the City to maintain the public water, wastewater, and stormwater facilities and services. Each of the City’s utilities is operated as an independent enterprise fund and all expenses and revenues for each service are kept separate. No tax revenues are used to cover the costs of utility services.

3. What is a unit of water?

Water usage is measured by consumption units. One consumption unit is the same as 748.5 gallons or 100 cubic feet. A container 5 feet long by 5 feet wide and 4 feet high holds one consumption unit.

4. What is stormwater?

Stormwater runoff is all water (rainfall or snow melt) that ultimately flows into drainage facilities, streams, ponds, lakes, wetlands or other waterborne. Stormwater is prevented from naturally absorbing into the ground because of human sprawl including buildings, parking lots, patios, sidewalks and driveways.

5. What part of my utility bill is a flat rate and what part can I control?

Your residential utility bill is really five bills in one- it’s for water, wastewater, stormwater services, fire suppression and public works facility fee.
• For drinking water there is a flat portion and a variable portion. The flat portion is $18.30 per month. The variable portion is for the amount of water your household uses each month. You may control this portion of your utility bill water charge by conserving and using less water.
• The wastewater portion of the bill is a flat charge of $34.59 per month ($69.18 for bi-monthly customers or $103.78 for bi-monthly customers outside city limits).
• Stormwater is a flat charge of $10.36 per month. ($20.72 for bi-monthly customers).
• Fire suppression is a flat charge of $0.75 per month.
• The public works facility fee is a flat rate of $4.82 per month for average customers.

6. How can I reduce my bill?

Remember that water is a valuable resource that shouldn't be wasted. Your water is clean, safe, and convenient; but you have to pay for its treatment and the system to deliver it to you. By conserving water in your home, you also save energy needed to heat it or run appliances. Bathrooms: •Two-thirds of the water used in an average home is used in the bathroom, and a lot of it goes into the sewer. From two to seven gallons of water are used every time a toilet is flushed. Do not use the toilet to flush items that can go in a wastebasket or garbage can. Be aware of toilet leaks. •You may have been advised to take showers rather than baths to conserve water. If you take a long shower, however, you may use more water than if you took a bath. Long, hot showers not only waste water but also energy to heat the water. Consider using reduced-flow devices for showerheads. •Don’t leave the water running while you shave or brush your teeth. You are just running clean water down the drain. Kitchens: •Be sure the dishwasher is fully loaded before running it. Try not rinsing dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. •If you wash dishes by hand, do not let the water run while washing or rinsing. Don’t let the water run while cleaning vegetables or other foods. Use a large pan or dish for rinsing. •Store drinking water in the refrigerator rather than letting it run until it’s cold. Laundry: •Be sure to have full loads, or use the automatic controls for smaller loads. •Use cold water for rinsing. Outdoors: •Don’t water on a fixed schedule, or if rain is in the forecast. Water grass or plants only if they show signs of needing it. Water during the coolest part of the day to avoid excess evaporation, and let the water sink in slowly. Water applied too fast runs off into storm sewers. •When washing the car, use a bucket of water for washing, and use the hose only for rinsing. Plumbing: •Install shutoff valves for appliances and fixtures in case a pipe blows out. Most importantly, check for a main shutoff valve that turns off water to the whole house, and make sure that it works.

7. How can I voice my opinion on utility rates?

Residents may attend Fairview City Council meetings and voice opinions about rates for water, wastewater, and stormwater, or you can email comments to youngn@ci.fairview.or.us.

8. What is my stormwater utility bill fee used for?

Stormwater utility fees are dedicated to the repair, replacement, maintenance and construction of systems to manage stormwater runoff. Fees are used to provide a multitude of services that help to improve water quality and protect aquatic resources, as the City is mandated by federal law to have protection measures and meet health quality and standard benchmarks.
• Emergency response to hazardous spills
• Cleaning sediments and other pollutants from catchbasins and stormwater facilities
• Designing, constructing and maintaining stormwater quantity and quality facilities
• Implementation of Erosion Prevention and Sediment Control inspection and enforcement

9. What is the public works facility fee used for?

The City Public Works Shop located at 48 First Street was constructed in 1949 and is not structurally sound in the event of a seismic event. This facility houses city vehicles and equipment that would be used to assist citizens in the event of a seismic event; therefore, it is imperative that it be able to withstand a disaster.

Council diligently considered all options and determined it was in the best interest of the citizens to construct a new Public Works shop facility. Different methods of funding were explored and the public was given the opportunity to share their feedback.

Council approved a utility fee, which allows staff to spread the cost of the new building as evenly as possible to all utility users. Average residential and business customers will be billed $4.82 per month. Apartment complexes will be billed $4.82 per unit, adjusted by the vacancy rate as reported by the Metro Multifamily Housing Association.

The debt term is 20 years. The city expects to be able to prepay a portion of the debt after year eight due to increasing revenue from development, which should shorten the overall time frame of the debt, and subsequently, the fee charged to customers. FMC Chapter 13.13 - Public Works Facility Fee

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1. Where does Fairview’s water come from?

The City of Fairview operates a fully self-sufficient drinking water supply system. Under normal operations, all of Fairview’s domestic water is extracted from deep underground aquifers by city-owned and operated wells. Additionally, Fairview has inter-ties with the Rockwood, Troutdale, and Wood Village water systems that can be opened in case of emergency.

2. Does Fairview add fluoride to the water?

Fairview does not add fluoride to its water, but because our water comes from ground water wells we do have a naturally occurring fluoride level within the city's water.

Research studies indicate that fluoride levels of 1.0 ppm (parts per million) are optimum. Correct amounts of fluoride can be beneficial, too much fluoride can be detrimental. The highest level of fluoride that is allowed in drinking water is 4.0 ppm. Our levels average about 0.1 ppm.

Although our levels are safe, we still recommend consulting your dentist for the proper fluoride levels for you and your family.

3. Do I have to connect to the City's water system?

New or expanded facilities that need running water must connect to the City's water system at the owner's expense. Connections to the City's water system are made by private contractors employed by the person or firm desiring the connection. The first step is to complete a Permit Application and submit it to City Hall. The work must be performed in compliance with the City's "Construction Standards for Public Works Facilities."

4. Is a tiny leak in my water service line really worth the trouble to repair?

It is. A water line with 60 psi of pressure and a 1/16” diameter pin hole can waste 25,000 gallons of water in a single month.

5. What is my water pressure?

Pressures in the water system vary with location. The City of Fairview’s water system is designed to provide service pressures of AT LEAST 40 psi. To find out the water pressure at a certain location, contact us at 503-665-9320.

6. What is my water’s hardness?

Our water is considered moderate on the hardness scale. The tested pH range of our water is 7.8 to 8.1 which is within the recommended levels set by the EPA of 6.5 to 8.5.

7. What causes high levels of lead in drinking water?

Lead can enter drinking water when pipes that contain lead corrode, especially where the water has a low pH or is more acidic. The most common problem is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures with lead solder, from which significant amounts of lead can enter into the water, especially hot water.

8. How can I get my water tested?

There are laboratories in our area that perform water testing at a reasonable cost, call us for more information at 503-665-9320.

9. Why is my water discolored at times?

The change in color may have to do with our seasonal water system flushing. It is normal to see a slight color change when this is occurring. Flushing may stir up sediment, resulting in temporarily discolored water. Turn on each cold water faucet and allow the water to run until it is clear again. Call us if you have concerns.

10. Who can I call about water quality or pressure concerns?

The City can answer your questions and concerns, call us at (503) 665-9320. We are available Monday through Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.