Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Oregon boasts abundant natural beauty, including its renowned wild and scenic rivers. These waterways, protected under federal and state legislation, offer breathtaking landscapes and vital habitats for diverse flora and fauna. However, understanding Oregon’s land use rules is paramount for potential landowners eyeing properties along these rivers. Here’s what you […]
Jackson County
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 […]
Preparing to Testify at a Land Use Hearing
When a significant land use change is requested, the municipal code often requires a hearing where all parties have the opportunity to express their views. For example, one of the goals of Oregon’s statewide land use planning strategy recognizes the importance of citizen involvement “in all phases of the planning process.” Providing testimony at local […]
What Happens if You Violate Zoning Laws?
Zoning regulations outline how you can develop a property, but what happens if you violate zoning laws? On the most general level, zoning laws indicate which properties can be used for commercial, industrial, and residential purposes. Yet drill down further, and you’ll find they restrict finer details such as how many homes can be built, […]
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. […]