Oregon has long been recognized for its robust land use planning policies designed to balance growth with environmental preservation. Senate Bill 1537 (SB 1537), passed in 2024, marks a significant development in the state’s ongoing efforts to address its housing crisis. This legislation, part of Governor Tina Kotek’s housing initiative, introduces substantial changes to increase […]
Zoning Laws
Neighborhood Associations’ Role in Land Use Planning
Neighborhood associations play a significant and multifaceted role in land use planning, serving as vital conduits between residents and local government. Their influence spans from providing local insight and feedback on development projects to actively participating in shaping community policies and ensuring that the neighborhood’s voices are heard in planning processes. Understanding the extent of […]
What Landowners Wish They Knew about Zoning Regulations
Purchasing land can be an exciting and lucrative venture, but it comes with its share of complexities, especially when it comes to understanding zoning regulations. Zoning regulations dictate how land can be used, which can significantly impact a property’s value and potential uses. Many landowners often realize too late that they were unaware of crucial […]
Land Use Law Misunderstandings Can Be a Mess
Development plans involving land use are often complex and subject to a multitude of regulations, zoning laws, and environmental considerations. Land use law misunderstandings can significantly hinder or even derail development projects, causing delays, added costs, and legal issues. Here are some of the ways misunderstandings about these regulations can slow down or destroy development […]
How Zoning Impacts Property Tax Assessments in Oregon
Zoning regulations play a pivotal role in urban and rural planning, determining how land can be used and developed within a specific area. Beyond defining land use, zoning in Oregon also has significant implications for property tax assessments. Without a state sales tax, Oregon relies more heavily on state income tax and also property tax. […]
Property in a Floodplain? What You Need to Know.
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 […]
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, […]
Navigating Oregon’s Wild and Scenic River Land Use Rules
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 […]
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. […]