Riparian Areas and Land Use Planning

Statewide land use planning goals and regulations are intended to help protect our natural resources and allocate sufficient room for population growth and community development.  These laws strive to create a balance between conservation and expansion.  In Oregon, our residents enjoy beautiful and diverse environments, from majestic mountainscapes to coastal beaches and desert plains.  Regardless of the landscape, one common element required to sustain plants, trees, foliage, and wildlife is water.  As such, land use regulations in Oregon contain rules to protect lakes, ponds, creeks, rivers, and other waterways, including adjacent riparian areas.

What are riparian areas?

Think about the land surrounding a body of water (river, pond, etc.) as a funnel.  Water from the surrounding landscape travels downwards to the body of water–like material flowing through a funnel to the center hole.  There are a number of zones defined around the water source based on the intensity of the conditions to impact the quality of the water.  The terrestrial zone directly bordering the body of water is known as the riparian area.  Streambanks, riverbanks, and floodplains are all examples of riparian areas.

Why is this zone important?

Riparian areas are critical to the health of the water.  Plants in this zone provide essential cover and nutrients for aquatic and terrestrial animals.  Water temperature is vital for sustaining life and controlling the growth of bacteria.  Shade from surrounding vegetation moderates both water and air temperature.  Vegetation in the riparian zone also slows water movement and erosion around the body of water, filters water traveling across or through the earth, and collects sediment and debris before entering the river, stream, pond, or lake.

What restrictions may be placed on riparian areas?

There is no single rule that covers all riparian areas within the state.  However, if you have a waterway on your property, you should check with local authorities to determine if there are land use limitations in that area.  Depending on the location, there may be rules designed to protect the riparian health or water quality in the landscape.  In general, rules are designed to modify agricultural activities that impact the landscape to keep riparian vegetation healthy, stable, and consistent.  A few examples of activities that could be restricted include grazing animals, harvesting trees or other vegetation, and mining.

Learn more about land use possibilities for your property at Richard Stevens & Associates.

If you own or are planning to purchase rural property in Southern Oregon, it’s essential to consult with professionals who can walk you through all of the land use issues you need to consider.  At Richard Stevens & Associates, we specialize in assisting our clients with obtaining rural and urban land use permits.  We can help you consider the pros and cons of different properties so you’ll feel confident about your final decision.  Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you bring your dream home to life.