Southern Oregon’s scenic landscapes, with its lush forests, winding rivers, and breathtaking valleys, often draw prospective homeowners seeking serenity and natural beauty. However, nestled within this picturesque region are designated floodplains, areas prone to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall or snowmelt. For those considering purchasing property in a floodplain, it’s essential to be well-informed […]
City of Medford
What is the Minimum Lot Size in Oregon?
As our communities grow and evolve, current and prospective landowners often have questions about zoning regulations, including details about lot sizes. Rules about lot sizes impact opportunities, such as whether they can be subdivided or multiple homes can be built on a parcel of land. At Richard Stevens & Associates, we help our clients understand […]
Zoning Determinations in Southern Oregon and Their Impact
Zoning determinations play a crucial role in shaping land use and development in Southern Oregon, as they do in many other regions. These determinations, made by local government bodies, establish the permitted uses, building requirements, and development regulations for specific areas within a municipality. Understanding zoning determinations is vital for property owners in Southern Oregon, […]
Understanding Different Types of Commercial Zoning
When contemplating launching a new commercial business in Southern Oregon, developers should consider many factors, including intricate land use regulations, zoning intricacies, and the nuances of permitting rules. In Oregon, these regulations are typically embedded within comprehensive community plans, carefully crafted through a meticulous process involving data collection, community input, forward-looking projections, and strategic decision-making. […]
5 Questions to Ask Before Buying Rural Property in Oregon
Oregon’s vast landscapes, lush forests, and picturesque countryside make it a dream destination for those seeking a peaceful rural retreat. However, buying rural property in Oregon requires careful consideration to ensure your investment aligns with your lifestyle and goals. Here are five essential questions to ask before buying rural property in Oregon. Ask these questions […]
Can You Operate a Wedding Venue on a Rural Property?
The gentle, rolling hills of Southern Oregon are a treasure trove of picturesque landscapes and tranquil settings, making it the perfect place to turn your rural property into a captivating wedding venue. As you’ll soon discover, the region’s natural beauty, combined with a touch of creativity and some practical know-how, can create unforgettable experiences for […]
Tips for Resolving a Boundary Dispute or Encroachment
Property boundary disputes or encroachments can be a source of stress and conflict for property owners in Southern Oregon. These disputes can arise for various reasons, such as unclear property lines, disagreements over easements, or unauthorized use of a neighbor’s property. If you are facing a property boundary dispute or encroachment, there are several steps […]
Living in an Unincorporated Community in Oregon
In Oregon, it’s common to have unincorporated areas- inside city limits or outside a city’s borders. Unincorporated communities are parcels of land that exist outside the jurisdiction of any city or town–meaning they are not regulated by the surrounding or nearby city’s governments. Unincorporated communities do not have local governments and rely on other communal […]
Understanding Floodplain Determination in Southern Oregon
Floodplain determination is a crucial aspect of land use planning and development, as it helps communities understand their flood risk and make informed decisions about reducing or managing that risk. This article provides an overview of how floodplain determination works in Jackson County, Oregon. How are Floodplains Determined? Floodplains are determined using Flood Insurance Rate […]
What is an “Area of Special Concern” for Southern Oregon Properties
State and municipal planning ordinances and codes regulate how a property can be used or altered. One provision that may limit the approved land uses is termed “area of special concern.” In general, an area of special concern is a section of land containing protected wildlife and vegetation or is designated as a historic resource. […]