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 rules concerning the minimum lot size in Oregon, whether they are considering development plans or a new purchase.

In simple terms, the minimum lot size refers to the smallest area of land permitted for a single residential unit or a specific type of development. Local governments implement these regulations to ensure orderly development, preserve natural resources, and maintain the quality of life for residents.

Minimum lot sizes were put in place to address a myriad of concerns. These rules help promote sustainable environments and ecosystems for wildlife, create a foundation for city planning from aesthetics to public services, and set expectations between neighbors within a community.

State Regulations for the Minimum Lot Size in Oregon

Oregon’s land use regulations are primarily governed by the state’s Land Use Planning Program, enacted in 1973. Under this program, local jurisdictions, including cities and counties, have the authority to establish zoning ordinances and minimum lot size requirements tailored to their respective communities. Because rules can differ from one city or county to the next, working with a qualified land use consultant like Richard Stevens & Associates is essential. The following is an overview of general standards, which may differ for your specific situation.

The minimum lot size in Oregon varies depending on whether the property is located in an urban or rural area. The difference between the two is sometimes referred to as “city versus country living,” but in reality, the designation between the two can be more confusing and complex than you expect.

Urban Zones

Urban zones include city centers, densely populated neighborhoods, and most suburban areas. Typically, if a home is in a housing development, the land will be considered an urban area. Within an urban area, there are more specific zones, such as residential, commercial, and industrial, but for the purposes of this article, we’ll just stick to residential urban areas. In most urban zones in Oregon, the minimum lot size is 5,000 square feet or less. The lot size may also depend on the type of structure to be built, such as single-family homes versus multi-family dwellings.

Rural Zones

Rural zones are those “in the country” where homes are designed to have more distance from each other. Landowners may or may not have agricultural pursuits like farming on their land, and some may be in areas where limited commercial use (i.e., wedding venues or pet boarding) is allowed. Most rural zones in Oregon require lots to be at least two acres.

Other Zones

While most of the questions clients pose are related to urban or rural zones, many other land designations impact the minimum lot size in Oregon. For example, the minimum lot size for designated forestland and non-range farmland is 80 acres. The minimum lot size for a parcel zoned for designated rangeland is twice that amount at 160 acres. Once again, specific details may change based on several possible exceptions or jurisdictions, so always work with a qualified land consultant to make decisions about your project.

Navigating Lot Size Regulations

For prospective landowners and developers, navigating Oregon’s minimum lot size regulations requires careful consideration and due diligence. Here’s an overview of the steps we take when we work with clients regarding zoning rules and regulations, illustrating why working with Richard Stevens & Associates is of tremendous value to ensure your investment decision is the right one.

1. Research Local Zoning Ordinances: We begin by researching the zoning ordinances and land use regulations specific to the jurisdiction where the property is located. These ordinances outline the minimum lot size requirements and permissible land uses within each zoning district.
2. Consult with Local Authorities: Our team will reach out to the planning department or zoning administration office in the relevant jurisdiction to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding lot size regulations, zoning designations, and any applicable development standards or restrictions.
3. Engage with Other Professional Expertise: When needed, we seek guidance from experienced attorneys, appraisers, or other professionals relevant to the situation who can provide valuable insights and navigate the complexities of Oregon’s land use regulations.
4. Evaluate Development Feasibility: We assess the feasibility of your development project within the context of minimum lot size requirements, considering factors such as site constraints, infrastructure availability, and potential regulatory hurdles.
5. Explore Variance or Exception Options: In certain circumstances where strict compliance with minimum lot size regulations is impractical, we may explore options you have for obtaining variances, exceptions, or waivers through the local planning process.

Do you have questions about land use regulations in Oregon?

If you have questions about using your current property or a prospective parcel on the market, contact the professionals at Richard Stevens & Associates. Our team can answer your questions and guide you through obtaining rural and urban land use planning permits throughout Southern Oregon and beyond. With expertise at your side, you’ll be able to navigate the complex systems to obtain the land use permits you need for your next project. Give us a call at 541-773-2646 to get started!