One of the most crucial steps in embarking on a new development project is conducting a land use feasibility study. This comprehensive analysis assesses factors like zoning regulations, environmental impact, and market demand, helping to determine whether the project is viable. However, as developers and investors dig deeper into these studies, they often uncover hidden […]
Thoughts
Thinking of Annexing Your Property? What You Need to Know
Annexing your property into city limits can bring significant benefits, but it’s not a decision to be made lightly. Your lifestyle, finances, and property value will all be affected by this decision. It is important for a homeowner, business owner, or developer to weigh the pros and cons of annexing your property before making this […]
How Oregon’s Land Use Provisions Protect Farming Operations
For more than four decades, Oregon has been at the forefront of farmland protection in the United States, thanks to its robust land use planning system. These provisions, enshrined in the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS 215.243), are designed to safeguard agricultural lands from urban sprawl, ensuring that farming operations can thrive for generations to come. […]
Can I Run an Airbnb on My Property?
Southern Oregon is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant communities, bringing an influx of visitors to the area every year. If you’re a landowner thinking of opening an Airbnb to accommodate these visitors, it’s essential to think beyond the financial benefits and fully understand the regulations and potential challenges that come with running an […]
Understanding Oregon SB 1537 and Its Impact on Land Developers
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 […]
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 […]