Where We’re At: Current Bend, Oregon ADU Laws and Building Codes
Bend, Oregon’s thriving community and desirable location have made it a popular destination for new residents. As the city’s population continues to grow, the demand for affordable housing options has also increased. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have become a viable solution to address the city’s housing shortage. In this blog post, we will discuss the upcoming changes to Bend’s ADU laws and building codes, which will take effect in 2023.
ADU Laws in Bend:
The new ADU laws in Bend aim to promote the development of additional housing units while ensuring they are compatible with existing neighborhoods. The changes will enable property owners to build and rent out ADUs, ultimately adding to the city’s diverse housing options.
1. Zoning:
The new ADU laws will allow ADUs in all residential zones and in some commercial and mixed-use zones. This means that more property owners will have the opportunity to build and rent out ADUs on their land.
2. Number of ADUs:
As per the current law, the new regulation will allow property owners to have one attached and one detached ADU, provided there is sufficient space on the property.
3. ADU Size:
The maximum size of an ADU in Bend will increase from 900 to 1,000 square feet. This gives homeowners more flexibility in designing and developing their ADUs.
Building Codes and Regulations
To ensure safety, durability, and compliance with the new legislation, there will be changes to the building codes and regulations surrounding ADUs in Bend.
1. Setbacks:
The new legislation will increase the maximum height of ADUs from 18 to 20 feet. Additionally, the setbacks will be adjusted to accommodate the larger maximum size.
2. Parking Requirements:
The new regulation will require that an additional on-site parking space be made available for each ADU on a property. In addition, designated parking spots must be provided for all electric vehicles.
3. Energy-Efficiency Standards:
ADUs will now need to meet stricter energy-efficiency standards in Bend. They will have to use insulation and efficient lighting systems to reduce their energy use.
Conclusion
The new 2023 ADU laws and building codes in Bend, Oregon, will provide greater flexibility for property owners to build and rent out ADUs, ultimately contributing to the city’s affordable housing options. The new regulations ensure that ADUs are compatible with existing neighborhoods and that safety standards are met. It is essential to keep up-to-date with Bend’s building codes and regulations, and homeowners must seek advice from the City of Bend’s planning department or a professional architect/contractor to ensure that their ADUs are compliant with the new legislation. With a little planning, property owners can take advantage of the new ADU laws and regulations and add value to their properties while addressing the housing shortage in Bend.
