Landscape Design & Hardscape in Portland, OR

Local Landscaping Expertise

A landscaper in Portland, OR who knows the city's neighborhoods transforms outdoor spaces into hardscape and design masterpieces. From Mount Tabor's wooded slopes to Southeast Portland's raised beds, we bring expertise in paver patios, retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, decks, and pergolas. Portland's building codes demand precision—from permitted coverings to slope-sensitive retaining walls. Our team handles all permitting so your backyard evolution happens without headaches.

Ready to build the backyard you've pictured. Get in touch for a consultation.

How We Work

A clear process keeps your project moving forward. We listen, plan, build, and verify every step.

What's Involved

Landscape design and hardscape construction flow through distinct phases. Each step builds toward your final result, with clear communication at every milestone.

Site Review & Design

We assess your yard's slope, drainage, sun exposure, and views. Permitting rules are checked early. Your vision shapes the plan.

Permits & Prep

Portland requires permits for covered structures, retaining walls, and grading. We file paperwork and handle inspections so you don't stress.

Grading & Drainage

We reshape grade, create proper drainage paths, and protect trees. Portland's wet winters demand careful slope work.

Construction & Build

Pavers, walls, decks, kitchens—we build with code compliance in mind. Quality materials and expert technique show in every detail.

Final Inspection

City inspector approves your work. We handle punch-list items and walk through the finished space with you.

You'll always know what's happening next—and why.

Our Services

Hardscape and landscape construction shaped to fit Portland neighborhoods and building codes.

Custom paver patio installed in Hawthorne neighborhood, Portland

Paver Patios & Driveways

Permeable pavers manage Portland rain while creating sleek outdoor living spaces. We design layouts that maximize sun exposure and flow.

Eco-friendly permeable materials for drainage
Durable patterns suited to Pacific Northwest weather
Expert permits and inspections included

Terraced retaining walls in Mount Tabor neighborhood

Retaining Walls

Portland's terrain often slopes steeply. Walls under four feet don't need permits; anything larger demands engineering. We get it right the first time.

Tiered walls with proper spacing between levels
Engineering for slopes steeper than 45 degrees
Drainage solutions to prevent backfill pressure

Built-in outdoor kitchen in Southeast Portland backyard

Outdoor Kitchens

Bring entertaining outside with a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. Counters, grills, fridges—everything permitted and weatherproofed for wet Oregon seasons.

Stainless steel appliances and weather-resistant finishes
Gas and electrical hookups with full permitting
Durable counter materials and covered spaces

Custom wood pergola on Northwest Portland residence

Pergolas & Decks

Any cover that attaches to your house needs a Portland permit. We build structurally sound pergolas and decks with proper inspections baked in.

Permits required; we handle paperwork and inspections
Pressure-treated lumber for Pacific Northwest moisture
Integrated shade and sun control design

Why Local Expertise Matters

Portland's building codes, neighborhood culture, and rain-heavy climate shape every design choice.

Permits aren't optional. Neighbor complaints force removals, and retroactive permits cost double.

Portland Building Code Know-How

Every covered structure attached to a house requires permits. Retaining walls over 4 feet need engineering approval. Most homeowners don't know these rules until problems surface.

We pull permits upfront, schedule inspections, and document everything. Your backyard passes city review.

Neighborhood-Specific Design

Craftsman bungalows in Eastmoreland call for different patios than mid-century homes near Mount Tabor. HOAs in some areas have deck restrictions. We know what works in each Portland pocket.

Rain & Drainage Solutions

Portland gets 42+ inches of rain annually. Slope, permeability, and drainage paths aren't cosmetic—they're survival. Our designs shed water efficiently.

Over 500+ hardscape projects completed across Portland neighborhoods.

Serving Portland Neighborhoods

We work throughout Portland, from the West Hills to inner Southeast, North to South Portland.

Northeast & Southeast Portland

Tree-lined streets and established homes dominate this side of the Willamette. We specialize in patio upgrades, raised garden hardscaping, and slope stabilization around Mount Tabor Park. Hawthorne Boulevard and Sellwood residents appreciate detailed design and code compliance.

Northwest Portland & West Hills

Close to Forest Park and spacious lots. Here we design large-scale outdoor kitchens, terraced hardscaping for hillside homes, and pergolas that frame views. Northwest neighborhoods often have HOA guidelines we navigate with care.

North Portland & South Portland

Growing areas with diverse home styles. From Pearl District lofts needing compact decks to Multnomah Village family homes seeking backyard transformation, we scale designs to lot size and lifestyle. River access adds creative outdoor living possibilities.

20+ years serving Portland. We know the neighborhoods, the codes, and the rain.

Why Portland Permits Protect You

A few hard truths about skipping permits in Portland.

Neighbor complaints force removal: If a neighbor reports unpermitted work, the city requires takedown. Your investment vanishes.
Resale complications: Unpermitted work clouds title clarity and lowers appraisal value. Buyers negotiate down or walk away.
Double permit fees: Retroactive permits cost significantly more and may require exposed inspection of finished work.
Insurance gaps: Some homeowner policies exclude unpermitted work. Damage claims may be denied.

Getting permits upfront costs less, protects your property value, and ensures safety. We make it simple.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a backyard patio?

Most ground-level patios don't require permits. However, if you're grading or moving earth over 400 square feet, erosion control permits apply. When in doubt, ask—the city publishes a clear permit lookup brochure on its website.

What's the difference between decks and pergolas on permits?

Any cover that attaches to your house requires a Portland permit. A freestanding pergola may not; an attached one always does. Height, materials, and structural connection all matter. We review your design and file the right paperwork.

Can I build a retaining wall without a permit?

Walls under 4 feet tall don't need permits. Anything taller requires engineering, especially on slopes steeper than 45 degrees. Multiple walls stacked create spacing rules (double their height between them). Professional review prevents costly mistakes.

Does my HOA override Portland building codes?

No. Portland codes are the minimum. HOAs can add stricter rules (like deck color), but they can't override safety requirements. We check both your city and HOA guidelines during design.

How long does the permitting process take?

Review times vary by project complexity. Portland publishes a permit timeline dashboard showing current review windows. Simple projects move faster than those requiring structural or engineering review.

What if I discover unpermitted work on my property?

Contact Portland's Bureau of Development Services. Retroactive permits cost more and expose you to removal orders. Fixing it now saves stress and money before you sell or expand.

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