Southern Oregon is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing wine regions in the United States. As of 2023, there are over 300 vineyards in the region, with over 10,000 acres of vineyards planted, valued at over $200 million annually. With over 200 wineries in the area, the wine industry in Southern Oregon is booming. One […]
Thoughts
Landslide Hazards in Oregon: Land Use Laws that Mitigate Risks
Landslide hazards in Oregon are a severe threat to property and human life. Landslides are any mass of soil, rock, or debris that moves down a slope or stream channel. They can occur when driving forces exceed resisting forces, causing earth materials to fall, slide, or flow down a slope. Two types of forces are […]
Water Conservation and Wildfire Risk Reduction Regulations
Southern Oregon is blessed with natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and a rich cultural heritage. However, the region faces numerous challenges threatening its sustainability and resilience, particularly water scarcity and wildfire risk. As climate change intensifies these challenges, community leaders in Southern Oregon are taking proactive steps to tackle them head-on. One land use strategy involves […]
Navigating Land Use Regulations for Commercial Business
Richard Stevens & Associates works with many commercial business owners who have encountered unexpected challenges related to land use regulations after purchasing or leasing property. These challenges can significantly impact a business’s ability to operate and thrive, so it’s essential to research and understand the applicable regulations before signing any contracts or agreements. In this […]
What to Know About Remodeling an Attic into Living Space
As families grow and needs evolve, many people look for creative ways to increase the usable living space of their existing homes. One solution is to convert an attic into a bedroom, game room, movie room, or other living space. When considering remodeling an attic into living space, it’s essential to understand the specific building […]
Soil Testing Undeveloped Property in Oregon
Soil is a crucial component of any land, and it affects not only the health and productivity of plants and animals but also the stability and durability of structures built on it. Different soil types have distinct properties that can impact land suitability for certain uses, such as farming, gardening, construction, or recreation. Some soils […]
Responding to a Notice of Public Hearing
Did you receive a notice of public hearing about a possible project in your neighborhood? Or perhaps you’ve seen signage about a public hearing posted on a property lot nearby. What is a notice of public hearing, and should you get involved? A Notice of Public Hearing should be addressed with a level of seriousness […]
Can I Camp on my Rural Property in Oregon?
Southern Oregon is abundant with rural properties: some wooded, some flat and open, and some with natural or man-made ponds. Oregonians enjoy many freedoms that come with owning acres of rural property with nary a neighbor in sight. With so many beautiful properties in the state, a popular question many landowners ask us is, “Can […]
Fuelbreak Laws in Oregon
Are you planning to build a home on rural property? Depending on the setting, local zoning laws and regulations could impact where you can place structures on the land. Fuelbreak laws in Oregon impact rural property owners and are designed to protect property against the dangers of wildfires. If you’re planning to build on land […]
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 […]