Chapter 197 — Comprehensive Land Use Planning I

ORS sections in this chapter were amended or repealed by the Legislative Assembly during its 2022 regular session. See the table of ORS sections amended or repealed during the 2022 regular session: 2022 A&R Tables

Uncodified sections printed in this chapter were amended or repealed by the Legislative Assembly during its 2022 regular session. See the table of uncodified sections amended or repealed during the 2022 regular session: 2022 A&R Tables

New sections of law were enacted by the Legislative Assembly during its 2022 regular session and pertain to or are likely to be compiled in this ORS chapter. See sections in the following 2022 Oregon Laws chapters: 2022 Session Laws 0054; 2022 Session Laws 0086

2021 EDITION

COMPREHENSIVE LAND USE PLANNING I

MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS

GENERAL PROVISIONS

197.005 Legislative findings

197.010 Policy

197.012 Compact urban development

197.013 Implementation and enforcement are of statewide concern

197.015 Definitions for ORS chapters 195, 196, 197 and ORS 197A.300 to 197A.325

197.020 Land use decision considerations

197.022 Policy regarding ORS 215.433 and 227.184

(Temporary provisions relating to restoration of uses destroyed by 2020 wildfires are compiled as notes following ORS 197.022)

LAND CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

197.030 Land Conservation and Development Commission; members; appointment; confirmation; term; vacancies

197.035 Officers; quorum; compensation and expenses

197.040 Duties of commission; rules

197.045 Powers of commission

197.047 Notice to local governments and property owners of changes to commission rules or certain statutes; form; distribution of notice; costs

197.050 Interstate agreements and compacts; commission powers

197.060 Biennial report; draft submission to legislative committee; contents

197.065 Biennial report analyzing uses of certain land; annual local government reports

197.070 Public inspection of assessments prepared by commission

DEPARTMENT OF LAND CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT

197.075 Department of Land Conservation and Development

Note Updating land use planning to incorporate wildfire risk--2021 c.592 §11

197.085 Director; appointment; compensation and expenses

197.090 Duties and authority of director; appealing local land use decision; rules

197.095 Land Conservation and Development Account

ADVISORY COMMITTEES

197.158 Policy-neutral review and audit of statewide land use program

197.160 State Citizen Involvement Advisory Committee; city and county citizen advisory committees

197.165 Local Officials Advisory Committee

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING RESPONSIBILITIES

197.173 Findings regarding coordination between state agencies and local governments

197.175 Cities’ and counties’ planning responsibilities; rules on incorporations; compliance with goals

197.178 Development applications; reporting to Department of Land Conservation and Development

197.180 State agency planning responsibilities; determination of compliance with goals and compatibility with plans; coordination between agencies and local governments; rules; exceptions

197.183 Local government to notify Department of Aviation of applications received for certain water impoundments

197.186 Removal from buildable lands inventory of land subject to open space tax assessment; reapplication for assessment

197.195 Limited land use decision; procedures

197.200 Refinement plan; procedures for land division, site or design review within area subject to plan

GOALS COMPLIANCE

197.225 Preparation; adoption

197.230 Considerations; finding of need required for adoption or amendment of goal

197.235 Public hearings; notice; citizen involvement implementation; submission of proposals

197.240 Commission action; public hearing; notice; amendment; adoption

197.245 Commission amendment of initial goals; adoption of new goals

197.250 Compliance with goals required

197.251 Compliance acknowledgment; commission review; rules; limited acknowledgment; compliance schedule

197.253 Participation in local proceedings required for submitting comments and objections

197.254 Bar to contesting acknowledgment, appealing or seeking amendment

197.256 Acknowledgment deadline for newly incorporated cities

197.265 State compensation for costs of defending compliance actions

197.270 Copies of comprehensive plan and land use regulations; post review

197.274 Review of Metro regional framework plan

197.277 Oregon Forest Practices Act; exclusion

197.279 Approved wetland conservation plans comply with goals; exception; rules

197.283 Commission to assure protection of ground water resources

URBAN GROWTH BOUNDARIES AND NEEDED HOUSING WITHIN BOUNDARIES

197.286 Definitions for ORS 197.286 to 197.314 and 197.475 to 197.490

197.290 Housing production strategy

197.291 Review of housing production strategy

197.293 Identification of cities with unmet housing needs; effect

197.296 Analysis of housing capacity and needed housing by Metro, cities outside of Metro and smaller cities; accommodation of housing need

197.297 Analysis of housing capacity and needed housing in Metro cities

197.298 Priority of land to be included within urban growth boundary

197.299 Metro accommodation of needed housing and school lands

197.301 Metro report of performance measures

197.302 Metro determination of buildable land supply; corrective action; enforcement

Note Metro urban growth boundary designation--2014 c.92 §§2(2),4

197.303 “Needed housing” defined

197.304 Lane County accommodation of needed housing

197.307 Needed housing policy; clear and objective standards for housing; siting of manufactured dwellings

197.308 Affordable housing allowed outright; density bonuses

197.309 Local requirements to develop affordable housing

197.311 Final action on affordable housing application; affordable housing developed by religious corporation

197.312 Limitation on city and county prohibitions

197.313 Interpretation of ORS 197.312

197.314 Required siting of manufactured homes; minimum lot size; approval standards

(Temporary provisions relating to affordable housing pilot program are compiled as notes following ORS 197.314)

ENFORCEMENT OF PLANNING REQUIREMENTS

197.319 Procedures prior to request of an enforcement order

197.320 Power of commission to order compliance with goals and plans

197.324 Proceedings prior to order of compliance with goals; disclosure notice

197.328 Procedures to consider order to comply with goals

197.335 Order for compliance with goals; review of order; withholding grant funds; injunctions

197.340 Weight given to goals in planning practice; regional diversity and needs

197.350 Burden of persuasion or proof in appeal to board or commission

197.353 Measure 37 timelines; death of claimant

EXPEDITED AND MIDDLE HOUSING LAND DIVISIONS

197.360 “Expedited land division” defined; applicability

197.365 Application; notice to neighbors; comment period

197.370 Failure of local government to timely act on application

197.375 Appeal of local government to referee; Court of Appeals

197.380 Application fees

ACTIVITIES ON FEDERAL LAND

197.390 Activities on federal land; list; permit required; enjoining violations

197.395 Application for permit; review and issuance; conditions; restrictions; review

AREAS OF CRITICAL CONCERN

197.405 Designation of areas of critical state concern; commission recommendation; committee review; approval by Legislative Assembly

197.410 Use and activities regulated; enjoining violations

197.416 Metolius Area of Critical State Concern

197.430 Enforcement powers

SPECIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

(Temporary provisions relating to transfer of development rights pilot program are compiled as notes following ORS 197.430)

(Temporary provisions relating to Grant County guest ranch are compiled as notes following ORS 197.430)

(Temporary provisions relating to Stevens Road tract in City of Bend are compiled as notes following ORS 197.430)

(Speedway Destination)

197.431 Expansion of speedway destination site

197.432 Definitions for ORS 197.431 to 197.434

197.433 Development of major motor speedway

197.434 Traffic impacts of speedway destination

DESTINATION RESORTS

197.435 Definitions for ORS 197.435 to 197.467

197.440 Legislative findings

197.445 Destination resort criteria; phase-in requirements; annual accounting

197.450 Siting without taking goal exception

197.455 Siting of destination resorts; sites from which destination resort excluded

197.460 Compatibility with adjacent land uses; county measures; economic impact analysis; traffic impact analysis

197.462 Use of land excluded from destination resort

197.465 Comprehensive plan implementing measures

197.467 Conservation easement to protect resource site

MOBILE HOME, MANUFACTURED DWELLING AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARKS

197.475 Policy

197.480 Planning for parks; procedures; inventory

197.485 Prohibition on restrictions of manufactured dwelling

197.488 Replacement of park destroyed by natural disaster

197.490 Restriction on establishment of park

197.492 Definitions for ORS 197.492 and 197.493

197.493 Placement and occupancy of recreational vehicle

MORATORIUM ON CONSTRUCTION OR LAND DEVELOPMENT

197.505 Definitions for ORS 197.505 to 197.540

197.510 Legislative findings

197.520 Manner of declaring moratorium

197.522 Local government to approve subdivision, partition or construction; conditions

197.524 Local government to adopt moratorium or public facilities strategy following pattern or practice of delaying or stopping issuance of permits

197.530 Correction program; procedures

197.540 Review by Land Use Board of Appeals

POST-ACKNOWLEDGMENT PROCEDURES

197.610 Submission of proposed comprehensive plan or land use regulation changes to Department of Land Conservation and Development; rules

197.612 Comprehensive plan or land use regulation changes to conform plan or regulations to new requirement in statute, goal or rule

197.615 Submission of adopted comprehensive plan or land use regulation changes to Department of Land Conservation and Development

197.620 Appeal of certain comprehensive plan or land use regulation decision-making

197.625 Acknowledgment of comprehensive plan or land use regulation changes; application prior to acknowledgment

197.626 Submission of land use decisions that expand urban growth boundary or designate urban or rural reserves

197.627 Meaning of “compliance with the goals” for certain purposes

197.628 Periodic review; policy; conditions that indicate need for periodic review

197.629 Schedule for periodic review; coordination

197.631 Commission to amend regulations to facilitate periodic review

197.633 Two phases of periodic review; rules; appeal of decision on work program; schedule for completion; extension of time on appeal

197.636 Procedures and actions for failure to meet periodic review deadlines

197.637 Department of Land Conservation and Development may request review by Housing and Community Services Department of certain local housing measures

197.638 Department of Land Conservation and Development may request review by Oregon Business Development Department of local inventory and analysis of industrial and commercial land

197.639 State assistance teams; alternative coordination process; grant and technical assistance funding; priority of population forecasting program; advisory committee

197.644 Modification of work program; exclusive jurisdiction of Land Conservation and Development Commission

197.646 Implementation of new requirement in goal, rule or statute; rules

197.649 Fees for notice; rules

197.650 Appeal to Court of Appeals; standing

197.651 Appeal to Court of Appeals for judicial review of final order of Land Conservation and Development Commission

COLLABORATIVE REGIONAL PROBLEM SOLVING

197.652 Regional problem-solving process

197.654 Regional problem-solving goals, actions and agreements; implementation

197.656 Commission approval of comprehensive plans not in compliance with goals; written statement of disapproval; participation by state agencies; use of resource lands; rules

197.658 Modifying local work plan

197.659 Commission approval of certain changes in comprehensive plans or land use regulations

SPECIAL RESIDENCES

197.660 Definitions

197.663 Legislative findings

197.665 Locations of residential homes

197.667 Location of residential facility; application and supporting documentation

197.670 Zoning requirements and prohibitions for residential homes and residential facilities

FARMWORKER HOUSING

197.677 Policy

197.680 Legislative findings

197.685 Location of farmworker housing; approval standards

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

197.707 Legislative intent

197.712 Commission duties; comprehensive plan provisions; public facility plans; state agency coordination plans; compliance deadline; rules

197.713 Industrial development on industrial lands outside urban growth boundaries; exceptions

197.714 Cooperation of county and city concerning industrial development

197.716 Industrial and employment uses in listed counties; economic opportunity analysis

197.717 Technical assistance by state agencies; information from Oregon Business Development Department; model ordinances; rural economic development

197.719 Industrial use of abandoned or diminished mill sites; amendment of comprehensive plans and land use regulations; sewer facilities

197.722 Definitions for ORS 197.722 to 197.728

197.723 Designation of regionally significant industrial areas; rules

197.724 Review of application for land use permit within regionally significant industrial area

197.726 Jurisdiction on appeal; standing

197.727 Fee for review

197.728 Rules

GOAL EXCEPTIONS

197.732 Goal exceptions; criteria; rules; review

197.734 Exceptions to certain statewide planning goal criteria; rules

197.736 Commission implementation of ORS 197.340 and 197.732; rules

DEVELOPMENT IN URBAN GROWTH BOUNDARY

197.746 Transitional housing accommodations

197.748 Conversion of hotel or motel to emergency shelter or affordable housing

197.752 Lands available for urban development

197.754 Land identified for urban services; capital improvement plan; tax assessment

197.756 Farm use assessment in area identified for urban services

197.758 Development of middle housing; local regulations

197.761 Development of residential platted lot

197.764 Application to remove property from within urban growth boundary; conditions

197.766 Laws applicable to certain local decisions regarding urban growth boundary

MISCELLANEOUS

197.768 Local government or special district adoption of public facilities strategy; public hearing; written findings

197.770 Firearms training facilities

197.772 Consent for designation as historic property

197.782 Emergency shelters developed under temporary authorization

(Temporary provisions relating to development of emergency shelters are compiled as notes following ORS 197.782)

197.791 Inventory of local government surplus real property; report

197.794 Notice to railroad company upon certain applications for land use decision, limited land use decision or expedited land use decision

197.796 Applicant for certain land use decisions may accept and appeal condition imposed on application; procedure; attorney fees

197.797 Local quasi-judicial land use hearings; notice requirements; hearing procedures

197.798 Rules regulating transportation improvements by city or county

LAND USE BOARD OF APPEALS

197.805 Policy on review of land use decisions

197.810 Land Use Board of Appeals; appointment and removal of members; qualifications

197.815 Office location; proceedings may be conducted by telephone

197.820 Duty to conduct review proceedings; authority to issue orders; rules

197.825 Jurisdiction of board; limitations; effect on circuit court jurisdiction

197.828 Board review of limited land use decision

197.829 Board to affirm certain local government interpretations

197.830 Review procedures; standing; fees; deadlines; rules; issues subject to review; attorney fees and costs; publication of orders; mediation; tracking of reviews

197.831 Appellate review of clear and objective approval standards, conditions and procedures for needed housing

197.832 Board Publications Account

197.835 Scope of review; rules

197.840 Exceptions to deadline for final decision

197.843 Attorney fees for applicant developing affordable housing

197.845 Stay of decision being reviewed; criteria; undertaking; conditions; limitations

197.850 Judicial review of board order; procedures; scope of review; attorney fees; undertaking

197.855 Deadline for final court order; exceptions

197.860 Stay of proceedings to allow mediation

GENERAL PROVISIONS

197.005 Legislative findings. The Legislative Assembly finds that:

(1) Uncoordinated use of lands within this state threatens the orderly development, the

environment of this state and the health, safety, order, convenience, prosperity and welfare of the

people of this state.

(2) To promote coordinated administration of land uses consistent with comprehensive plans

adopted throughout the state, it is necessary to establish a process for the review of state agency,

city, county and special district land conservation and development plans for compliance with

goals.

(3) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (4) of this section, cities and counties should

remain as the agencies to consider, promote and manage the local aspects of land conservation

and development for the best interests of the people within their jurisdictions.

(4) The promotion of coordinated statewide land conservation and development requires the

creation of a statewide planning agency to prescribe planning goals and objectives to be applied

by state agencies, cities, counties and special districts throughout the state.

(5) City and county governments are responsible for the development of local comprehensive

plans. The purpose of ORS 195.065, 195.070 and 195.075 is to enhance coordination among

cities, counties and special districts to assure effectiveness and efficiency in the delivery of urban

services required under those local comprehensive plans. [1973 c.80 §1; 1977 c.664 §1; 1981

c.748 §21; 1993 c.804 §2a; 1999 c.348 §1]

197.010 Policy. The Legislative Assembly declares that:

(1) In order to ensure the highest possible level of livability in Oregon, it is necessary to provide for properly prepared and coordinated comprehensive plans for cities and counties, regional areas and the state as a whole. These comprehensive plans:

(a) Must be adopted by the appropriate governing body at the local and state levels;

(b) Are expressions of public policy in the form of policy statements, generalized maps and standards and guidelines;

(c) Shall be the basis for more specific rules and land use regulations which implement the policies expressed through the comprehensive plans;

(d) Shall be prepared to assure that all public actions are consistent and coordinated with the policies expressed through the comprehensive plans; and

(e) Shall be regularly reviewed and, if necessary, amended to keep them consistent with the changing needs and desires of the public they are designed to serve.

(2)(a) The overarching principles guiding the land use program in the State of Oregon are to:

(A) Provide a healthy environment;

(B) Sustain a prosperous economy;

(D) Equitably allocate the benefits and burdens of land use planning.

(b) Additionally, the land use program should, but is not required to, help communities achieve sustainable development patterns and manage the effects of climate change.

(c) The overarching principles in paragraph (a) of this subsection and the purposes in paragraph (b) of this subsection provide guidance to:

(A) The Legislative Assembly when enacting a law regulating land use.

(B) A public body, as defined in ORS 174.109, when the public body:

(i) Adopts or interprets goals, comprehensive plans and land use regulations implementing the plans, or administrative rules implementing a provision of ORS chapter 195, 196, 197, 215 or 227; or

(ii) Interprets a law governing land use.

(d) Use of the overarching principles in paragraph (a) of this subsection and the purposes in paragraph (b) of this subsection is not a legal requirement for the Legislative Assembly or other public body and is not judicially enforceable.

(3) The equitable balance between state and local government interests can best be achieved by resolution of conflicts using alternative dispute resolution techniques such as mediation, collaborative planning and arbitration. Such dispute resolution techniques are particularly suitable for conflicts arising over periodic review, comprehensive plan and land use regulations, amendments, enforcement issues and local interpretation of state land use policy. [1973 c.80 §2; 1981 c.748 §21a; 1993 c.792 §48; 2009 c.873 §1]

197.012 Compact urban development. In areas of the state that are growing rapidly, state agencies, as defined in ORS 171.133, cities and counties should, within constraints of applicable federal law and regulations, state law and rules and local ordinances:

(1) Consider directing major public infrastructure investments, including major transportation investments, to reinforce compact urban development; and

(2) Consider giving priority to investments that promote infill or redevelopment of existing urban areas to encourage the density necessary to support alternative modes of transportation. [2009 c.873 §14]

Note: 197.012 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 197 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

197.013 Implementation and enforcement are of statewide concern. Implementation and enforcement of acknowledged comprehensive plans and land use regulations are matters of statewide concern. [1981 c.884 §7]

197.015 Definitions for ORS chapters 195, 196, 197 and ORS 197A.300 to 197A.325. As used in ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197 and ORS 197A.300 to 197A.325, unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Acknowledgment” means a commission order that certifies that a comprehensive plan and land use regulations, land use regulation or plan or regulation amendment complies with the goals or certifies that Metro land use planning goals and objectives, Metro regional framework plan, amendments to Metro planning goals and objectives or amendments to the Metro regional framework plan comply with the goals.

(2) “Board” means the Land Use Board of Appeals.

(3) “Carport” means a stationary structure consisting of a roof with its supports and not more than one wall, or storage cabinet substituting for a wall, and used for sheltering a motor vehicle.

(4) “Commission” means the Land Conservation and Development Commission.

(5) “Comprehensive plan” means a generalized, coordinated land use map and policy statement of the governing body of a local government that interrelates all functional and natural systems and activities relating to the use of lands, including but not limited to sewer and water systems, transportation systems, educational facilities, recreational facilities, and natural resources and air and water quality management programs. “Comprehensive” means all-inclusive, both in terms of the geographic area covered and functional and natural activities and systems occurring in the area covered by the plan. “General nature” means a summary of policies and proposals in broad categories and does not necessarily indicate specific locations of any area, activity or use. A plan is “coordinated” when the needs of all levels of governments, semipublic and private agencies and the citizens of Oregon have been considered and accommodated as much as possible. “Land” includes water, both surface and subsurface, and the air.

(6) “Department” means the Department of Land Conservation and Development.

(7) “Director” means the Director of the Department of Land Conservation and Development.

(8) “Goals” means the mandatory statewide land use planning standards adopted by the commission pursuant to ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197.

(9) “Guidelines” means suggested approaches designed to aid cities and counties in preparation, adoption and implementation of comprehensive plans in compliance with goals and to aid state agencies and special districts in the preparation, adoption and implementation of plans, programs and regulations in compliance with goals. Guidelines shall be advisory and shall not limit state agencies, cities, counties and special districts to a single approach.

(10) “Land use decision”:

(a) Includes:

(A) A final decision or determination made by a local government or special district that concerns the adoption, amendment or application of:

(i) The goals;

(ii) A comprehensive plan provision;

(iii) A land use regulation; or

(iv) A new land use regulation;

(B) A final decision or determination of a state agency other than the commission with respect to which the agency is required to apply the goals; or

(b) Does not include a decision of a local government:

(A) That is made under land use standards that do not require interpretation or the exercise of policy or legal judgment;

(B) That approves or denies a building permit issued under clear and objective land use standards;

(D) That determines final engineering design, construction, operation, maintenance, repair or preservation of a transportation facility that is otherwise authorized by and consistent with the comprehensive plan and land use regulations;

(E) That is an expedited land division as described in ORS 197.360;

(F) That approves, pursuant to ORS 480.450 (7), the siting, installation, maintenance or removal of a liquefied petroleum gas container or receptacle regulated exclusively by the State Fire Marshal under ORS 480.410 to 480.460;

(G) That approves or denies approval of a final subdivision or partition plat or that determines whether a final subdivision or partition plat substantially conforms to the tentative subdivision or partition plan; or

(H) That a proposed state agency action subject to ORS 197.180 (1) is compatible with the acknowledged comprehensive plan and land use regulations implementing the plan, if:

(i) The local government has already made a land use decision authorizing a use or activity that encompasses the proposed state agency action;

(ii) The use or activity that would be authorized, funded or undertaken by the proposed state agency action is allowed without review under the acknowledged comprehensive plan and land use regulations implementing the plan; or

(iii) The use or activity that would be authorized, funded or undertaken by the proposed state agency action requires a future land use review under the acknowledged comprehensive plan and land use regulations implementing the plan;

(d) Does not include, except as provided in ORS 215.213 (13)(c) or 215.283 (6)(c), authorization of an outdoor mass gathering as defined in ORS 433.735, or other gathering of fewer than 3,000 persons that is not anticipated to continue for more than 120 hours in any three-month period; and

(e) Does not include:

(A) A writ of mandamus issued by a circuit court in accordance with ORS 215.429 or 227.179;

(B) Any local decision or action taken on an application subject to ORS 215.427 or 227.178 after a petition for a writ of mandamus has been filed under ORS 215.429 or 227.179; or

(i) The local government with land use jurisdiction over a use or activity that would be authorized, funded or undertaken by the state agency as a result of the state agency action has already made a land use decision approving the use or activity; or

(ii) A use or activity that would be authorized, funded or undertaken by the state agency as a result of the state agency action is allowed without review under the acknowledged comprehensive plan and land use regulations implementing the plan.

(11) “Land use regulation” means any local government zoning ordinance, land division ordinance adopted under ORS 92.044 or 92.046 or similar general ordinance establishing standards for implementing a comprehensive plan.

(12) “Limited land use decision”:

(a) Means a final decision or determination made by a local government pertaining to a site within an urban growth boundary that concerns:

(A) The approval or denial of a tentative subdivision or partition plan, as described in ORS 92.040 (1).

(B) The approval or denial of an application based on discretionary standards designed to regulate the physical characteristics of a use permitted outright, including but not limited to site review and design review.

(b) Does not mean a final decision made by a local government pertaining to a site within an urban growth boundary that concerns approval or denial of a final subdivision or partition plat or that determines whether a final subdivision or partition plat substantially conforms to the tentative subdivision or partition plan.

(13) “Local government” means any city, county or metropolitan service district formed under ORS chapter 268 or an association of local governments performing land use planning functions under ORS 195.025.

(14) “Metro” means a metropolitan service district organized under ORS chapter 268.

(15) “Metro planning goals and objectives” means the land use goals and objectives that a metropolitan service district may adopt under ORS 268.380 (1)(a). The goals and objectives do not constitute a comprehensive plan.

(16) “Metro regional framework plan” means the regional framework plan required by the 1992 Metro Charter or its separate components. Neither the regional framework plan nor its individual components constitute a comprehensive plan.

(17) “New land use regulation” means a land use regulation other than an amendment to an acknowledged land use regulation adopted by a local government that already has a comprehensive plan and land regulations acknowledged under ORS 197.251.

(18) “Person” means any individual, partnership, corporation, association, governmental subdivision or agency or public or private organization of any kind. The Land Conservation and Development Commission or its designee is considered a person for purposes of appeal under ORS chapters 195 and 197.

(19) “Special district” means any unit of local government, other than a city, county, metropolitan service district formed under ORS chapter 268 or an association of local governments performing land use planning functions under ORS 195.025, authorized and regulated by statute and includes but is not limited to water control districts, domestic water associations and water cooperatives, irrigation districts, port districts, regional air quality control authorities, fire districts, school districts, hospital districts, mass transit districts and sanitary districts.

(20) “Urban unincorporated community” means an area designated in a county’s acknowledged comprehensive plan as an urban unincorporated community after December 5, 1994.

(21) “Voluntary association of local governments” means a regional planning agency in this state officially designated by the Governor pursuant to the federal Office of Management and Budget Circular A-95 as a regional clearinghouse.

(22) “Wetlands” means those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration that are sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. [1973 c.80 §3; 1977 c.664 §2; 1979 c.772 §7; 1981 c.748 §1; 1983 c.827 §1; 1989 c.761 §1; 1989 c.837 §23; 1991 c.817 §1; 1993 c.438 §1; 1993 c.550 §4; 1995 c.595 §22; 1995 c.812 §1; 1997 c.833 §20; 1999 c.533 §11; 1999 c.866 §1; 2001 c.955 §§2,3; 2005 c.22 §137; 2005 c.88 §3; 2005 c.239 §2; 2005 c.829 §8; 2007 c.354 §§4,5; 2007 c.459 §§1,2; 2009 c.606 §2; 2009 c.790 §1; 2011 c.567 §7; 2013 c.575 §11]

197.020 Land use decision considerations. Age, gender or physical disability shall not be an adverse consideration in making a land use decision as defined in ORS 197.015. [1987 c.555 §5; 2005 c.22 §138]

197.022 Policy regarding ORS 215.433 and 227.184. The Legislative Assembly declares that it is in the interest of the citizens of this state that a process be established to allow the efficient resolution of all legal issues surrounding the permissible use of private land, including questions regarding the dismissal of appeals under the legal doctrine known as ripeness. It is in this interest that the Legislative Assembly enacts ORS 215.433 and 227.184. [1999 c.648 §5]

Note: 197.022 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 197 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Note: Sections 1, 2 and 5, chapter 217, Oregon Laws 2021, provide:

Sec. 1. Section 2 of this 2021 Act is added to and made a part of ORS chapter 197. [2021 c.217 §1]

Sec. 2. Restoration of uses destroyed by 2020 wildfires. (1) This section applies only to owners of properties on which structures or uses were destroyed or interrupted by a wildfire that was identified in an executive order issued by the Governor in accordance with the Emergency Conflagration Act under ORS 476.510 to 476.610 between August 1 and September 30, 2020. The local government may alter, restore or replace such a use as provided in this section in lieu of another process.

(2) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, a property owner may alter, restore or replace a nonresidential use without further application with the local government if:

(a) The use was allowed outright as an accessory use, without regard to whether the primary use was destroyed or was or will be restored;

(b)(A) The use was subject to a land use process; and

(B) A permit, including a conditional permit, was issued for the use notwithstanding any expiration of the permit or any subsequent changes to the law or process; or

(c)(A) The use was established before a requirement that the use be subject to a land use process; and

(B) The replacement use conforms as nearly as practicable to records of the use with the county assessor, building permit information or other reliable records.

(3) The local government shall approve an application to alter, restore or replace a dwelling if the local government determines that the evidence in the record establishes that:

(a) The former dwelling:

(A) Had intact exterior walls and roof structure;

(B) Had indoor plumbing consisting of a kitchen sink, toilet and bathing facilities connected to a sanitary waste disposal system;

(D) Had a heating system; and

(E)(i) Was authorized by building permits or other regulatory approval process by the appropriate authority; or

(ii) Was assessed as a residential dwelling for purposes of ad valorem taxation for the tax year beginning July 1, 2001, and is not subject to unresolved enforcement proceedings questioning the lawfulness of the dwelling; and

(b) The proposed dwelling will:

(A) Not exceed the floor area of the destroyed dwelling by more than 10 percent;

(B) Be adequately served by water, sanitation and roads;

(C) Be located wholly or partially within the footprint of the destroyed dwelling unless the applicant chooses a different location within the same lot or parcel to comply with local flood regulations or to avoid a natural hazard area; and

(D) Comply with applicable building codes that were in effect on the later of:

(i) January 1, 2008; or

(ii) The date of the former dwelling’s construction.

(4) A local government may not add conditions to the approval or siting of a dwelling under subsection (3) of this section except as necessary to maintain participation in the National Flood Insurance Program under 42 U.S.C. 4001 et seq. A local government may require that the property owner submit an application for a permit for the approval or siting of a nonresidential use only for the purpose of establishing such conditions that are necessary to maintain participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.

(5) A local government may delegate the approval of an application under subsection (3) of this section to:

(a) A hearings officer, as defined in ORS 215.402 or 227.160;

(b) A planning commission, as described in ORS 215.020; or

(6) The findings of the local government or its designee in approving an application under subsection (3) of this section is not a land use decision. The local government may not require an applicant give notice to any nonparty. The findings and conclusions of the local government are entitled to deference if there is any evidence to support the findings and are subject to review only under ORS 34.010 to 34.100.

(7) If a local government determines based on the evidence in the record that the use legally existed, the local government may, through a land use decision, approve an application to alter, restore or replace a use for which a land use application, building permit or other regulatory approval was required but record of the approval is unavailable for:

(a) A dwelling built after January 1, 2001, that complies with subsection (3)(a)(A) to (D) and (b) of this section; or

(b) A nonresidential use or structure.

(8) An application under this section must be filed on or before September 30, 2025.

(9) An approval of an application under this section expires only if the property owner has not commenced development of the structure or use on or before December 30, 2030. [2021 c.217 §2; 2021 c.520 §3]

Sec. 5. Sections 2 and 4 of this 2021 Act are repealed on January 2, 2031. [2021 c.217 §5]

LAND CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

197.030 Land Conservation and Development Commission; members; appointment; confirmation; term; vacancies. (1) There is established a Land Conservation and Development Commission consisting of seven members appointed by the Governor, subject to confirmation by the Senate pursuant to section 4, Article III, Oregon Constitution.

(2) The Governor shall appoint to the commission:

(a) One member representing Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Curry, Lincoln and Tillamook Counties and those portions of Douglas and Lane Counties lying west of the summit of the Coast Range;

(b) Two members representing Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington Counties;

(c) One member representing Benton, Linn, Marion, Polk and Yamhill Counties and that portion of Lane County lying east of the summit of the Coast Range;

(d) One member representing Jackson and Josephine Counties and that portion of Douglas County lying east of the summit of the Coast Range;

(e) One member representing Baker, Crook, Deschutes, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Hood River, Jefferson, Klamath, Lake, Malheur, Morrow, Sherman, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco and Wheeler Counties; and

(f) One member representing Benton, Clackamas, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Washington and Yamhill Counties and that portion of Lane County lying east of the summit of the Coast Range.

(3) At least one member shall be or have been an elected city official in Oregon and at least one member shall be an elected county official at the time of appointment.

(4) The term of office of each member of the commission is four years, but a member may be removed by the Governor for cause. Before the expiration of the term of a member, the Governor shall appoint a successor. No person shall serve more than two full terms as a member of the commission.

(5) If there is a vacancy for any cause, the Governor shall make an appointment to become immediately effective for the unexpired term. [1973 c.80 §5; 1977 c.664 §3; 1981 c.545 §4; 1993 c.792 §49; 1999 c.833 §1]

197.035 Officers; quorum; compensation and expenses. (1) The Land Conservation and Development Commission shall select one of its members as chairperson and another member as vice chairperson, for such terms and with duties and powers necessary for the performance of the functions of such offices as the commission determines. The vice chairperson of the commission shall act as the chairperson of the commission in the absence of the chairperson.

(2) A majority of the members of the commission constitutes a quorum for the transaction of business.

(3) Members of the commission are entitled to compensation and expenses as provided in ORS 292.495. [1973 c.80 §§7,8]

197.040 Duties of commission; rules. (1) The Land Conservation and Development Commission shall:

(a) Direct the performance by the Director of the Department of Land Conservation and Development and the director’s staff of their functions under ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197.

(b) In accordance with the provisions of ORS chapter 183, adopt rules that it considers necessary to carry out ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197. Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, in designing its administrative requirements, the commission shall:

(A) Allow for the diverse administrative and planning capabilities of local governments;

(B) Consider the variation in conditions and needs in different regions of the state and encourage regional approaches to resolving land use problems;

(D) Assess the likely degree of economic impact on identified property and economic interests; and

(E) Assess whether alternative actions are available that would achieve the underlying lawful governmental objective and would have a lesser economic impact.

(c)(A) Adopt by rule in accordance with ORS chapter 183 or by goal under ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197 any statewide land use policies that it considers necessary to carry out ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197.

(B) Adopt by rule in accordance with ORS chapter 183 any procedures necessary to carry out ORS 215.402 (4)(b) and 227.160 (2)(b).

(C) Review decisions of the Land Use Board of Appeals and land use decisions of the Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court within 120 days of the date the decisions are issued to determine if goal or rule amendments are necessary.

(d) Cooperate with the appropriate agencies of the United States, this state and its political subdivisions, any other state, any interstate agency, any person or groups of persons with respect to land conservation and development.

(e) Appoint advisory committees to aid it in carrying out ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197 and provide technical and other assistance, as it considers necessary, to each such committee.

(2) Pursuant to ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197, the commission shall:

(a) Adopt, amend and revise goals consistent with regional, county and city concerns;

(b) Prepare, collect, provide or cause to be prepared, collected or provided land use inventories;

(d) Review comprehensive plans for compliance with goals;

(e) Coordinate planning efforts of state agencies to assure compliance with goals and compatibility with city and county comprehensive plans;

(f) Insure widespread citizen involvement and input in all phases of the process;

(g) Review and recommend to the Legislative Assembly the designation of areas of critical state concern;

(h) Report periodically to the Legislative Assembly and to the committee;

(i) Review the land use planning responsibilities and authorities given to the state, regions, counties and cities, review the resources available to each level of government and make recommendations to the Legislative Assembly to improve the administration of the statewide land use program; and

(j) Perform other duties required by law.

(3) The requirements of subsection (1)(b) of this section shall not be interpreted as requiring an assessment for each lot or parcel that could be affected by the proposed rule. [1973 c.80 §§9,11; 1977 c.664 §5; 1981 c.748 §22; 1991 c.817 §19; 1993 c.792 §51; 1995 c.299 §1; 2009 c.873 §2]

197.045 Powers of commission. The Land Conservation and Development Commission may:

(1) Apply for and receive moneys from the federal government and from this state or any of its agencies or departments.

(2) Contract with any public agency for the performance of services or the exchange of employees or services by one to the other necessary in carrying out ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197.

(3) Contract for the services of and consultation with professional persons or organizations, not otherwise available through federal, state and local governmental agencies, in carrying out its duties under ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197.

(4) Perform other functions required to carry out ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197.

(5) Assist in development and preparation of model land use regulations to guide state agencies, cities, counties and special districts in implementing goals.

(6) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, review comprehensive plan and land use regulations related to the identification and designation of high-value farmland pursuant to chapter 792, Oregon Laws 1993, under procedures set forth in ORS 197.251. [1973 c.80 §10; 1977 c.664 §6; 1981 c.748 §22a; 1993 c.792 §11]

Note: Legislative Counsel has substituted “chapter 792, Oregon Laws 1993,” for the words “this 1993 Act” in section 11, chapter 792, Oregon Laws 1993, which amended 197.045. Specific ORS references have not been substituted, pursuant to 173.160. These sections may be determined by referring to the 1993 Comparative Section Table located in Volume 22 of ORS.

197.047 Notice to local governments and property owners of changes to commission rules or certain statutes; form; distribution of notice; costs. (1) As used in this section, “owner” means the owner of the title to real property or the contract purchaser of real property, of record as shown on the last available complete tax assessment roll.

(2) At least 90 days prior to the final public hearing on a proposed new or amended administrative rule of the Land Conservation and Development Commission described in subsection (10) of this section, the Department of Land Conservation and Development shall cause the notice set forth in subsection (3) of this section to be mailed to every affected local government that exercises land use planning authority under ORS 197.175.

(3) The notice required in subsection (2) of this section must:

(a) Contain substantially the following language in boldfaced type across the top of the face page extending from the left margin to the right margin:

______________________________________________________________________________

This is to notify you that the Land Conservation and Development Commission has proposed a new or amended administrative rule that, if adopted, may affect the permissible uses of properties in your jurisdiction.

______________________________________________________________________________

(b) Contain substantially the following language in the body of the notice:

______________________________________________________________________________

On (date of public hearing), the Land Conservation and Development Commission will hold a public hearing regarding adoption of proposed (new or amended) rule (number). Adoption of the rule may change the zoning classification of properties in your jurisdiction or may limit or prohibit land uses previously allowed on properties in your jurisdiction.

Rule (number) is available for inspection at the Department of Land Conservation and Development located at (address). A copy of the proposed rule (number) also is available for purchase at a cost of $_____.

For additional information, contact the Department of Land Conservation and Development at (telephone number).

______________________________________________________________________________

(4) A local government that receives notice under subsection (2) of this section shall cause the notice set forth in subsection (5) of this section to be mailed to every owner of real property that will be rezoned as a result of the proposed rule. Notice to an owner under this subsection must be mailed at least 45 days prior to the final public hearing on the proposed rule.

(5) The notice required in subsection (4) of this section must:

(a) Contain substantially the following language in boldfaced type across the top of the face page extending from the left margin to the right margin:

______________________________________________________________________________

(b) Contain substantially the following language in the body of the notice:

______________________________________________________________________________

On (date of public hearing), the Land Conservation and Development Commission will hold a public hearing regarding adoption of proposed (new or amended) rule (number). Adoption of the rule may affect the permissible uses of your property, and other properties in the affected zone, and may change the value of your property.

For additional information, contact the Department of Land Conservation and Development at (telephone number).

______________________________________________________________________________

(6) At least 90 days prior to the effective date of a new or amended statute or administrative rule described in subsection (10) of this section, the department shall cause the notice set forth in subsection (7) of this section to be mailed to every affected local government that exercises land use planning authority under ORS 197.175 unless the statute or rule is effective within 90 days of enactment or adoption, in which case the department shall cause the notice to be mailed not later than 30 days after the statute or rule is effective.

(7) The notice required in subsection (6) of this section must:

(a) Contain substantially the following language in boldfaced type across the top of the face page extending from the left margin to the right margin:

______________________________________________________________________________

(Check on the appropriate line:)

_____ This is to notify you that the Land Conservation and Development Commission has adopted an administrative rule that may affect the permissible uses of properties in your jurisdiction; or

_____ This is to notify you that the Legislative Assembly has enacted a land use planning statute that may affect the permissible uses of properties in your jurisdiction.

______________________________________________________________________________

(b) Contain substantially the following language in the body of the notice:

______________________________________________________________________________

(Check on the appropriate line:)

_____ On (date of rule adoption), the Land Conservation and Development Commission adopted administrative rule (number). The commission has determined that this rule may change the zoning classification of properties in your jurisdiction or may limit or prohibit land uses previously allowed on properties in your jurisdiction.

Rule (number) is available for inspection at the Department of Land Conservation and Development located at (address). A copy of the rule (number) also is available for purchase at a cost of $_____.

For additional information, contact the Department of Land Conservation and Development at (telephone number); or

_____ On (date of enactment) the Legislative Assembly enacted (House/Senate bill number). The Department of Land Conservation and Development has determined that enactment of (House/Senate bill number) may change the zoning classification of properties in your jurisdiction or may limit or prohibit land uses previously allowed on properties in your jurisdiction.

A copy of (House/Senate bill number) is available for inspection at the Department of Land Conservation and Development located at (address). A copy of (House/Senate bill number) also is available for purchase at a cost of $_____.

For additional information, contact the Department of Land Conservation and Development at (telephone number).

______________________________________________________________________________

(8) A local government that receives notice under subsection (6) of this section shall cause a copy of the notice set forth in subsection (9) of this section to be mailed to every owner of real property that will be rezoned as a result of adoption of the rule or enactment of the statute, unless notification was provided pursuant to subsection (4) of this section. The local government shall mail the notice to an owner under this subsection at least 45 days prior to the effective date of the rule or statute unless the statute or rule is effective within 90 days of enactment or adoption, in which case the local government shall mail the notice to an owner under this subsection not later than 30 days after the local government receives notice under subsection (6) of this section.

(9) The notice required in subsection (8) of this section must:

(a) Contain substantially the following language in boldfaced type across the top of the face page extending from the left margin to the right margin:

______________________________________________________________________________

(Check on the appropriate line:)

_____ This is to notify you that the Land Conservation and Development Commission has adopted an administrative rule that may affect the permissible uses of your property and other properties; or

_____ This is to notify you that the Legislative Assembly has enacted a land use planning statute that may affect the permissible uses of your property and other properties.

______________________________________________________________________________

(b) Contain substantially the following language in the body of the notice:

______________________________________________________________________________

(Check on the appropriate line:)

_____ On (date of rule adoption), the Land Conservation and Development Commission adopted administrative rule (number). The rule may affect the permissible uses of your property, and other properties in the affected zone, and may change the value of your property.

Rule (number) is available for inspection at the Department of Land Conservation and Development located at (address). A copy of the rule (number) also is available for purchase at a cost of $_____.

For additional information, contact the Department of Land Conservation and Development at (telephone number); or

_____ On (date of enactment) the Legislative Assembly enacted (House/Senate bill number). The Department of Land Conservation and Development has determined that enactment of (House/Senate bill number) may affect the permissible uses of your property, and other properties in the affected zone, and may change the value of your property.

For additional information, contact the Department of Land Conservation and Development at (telephone number).

______________________________________________________________________________

(10) The provisions of this section apply to all statutes and administrative rules of the Land Conservation and Development Commission that limit or prohibit otherwise permissible land uses or cause a local government to rezone property. For purposes of this section, property is rezoned when the statute or administrative rule causes a local government to:

(a) Change the base zoning classification of the property; or

(b) Adopt or amend an ordinance in a manner that limits or prohibits land uses previously allowed in the affected zone.

(11) The Department of Land Conservation and Development shall reimburse the local government for:

(a) The actual costs incurred responding to questions from the public related to a proposed new or amended administrative rule of the Land Conservation and Development Commission and to notice of the proposed rule; and

(b) All usual and reasonable costs of providing the notices required under subsection (4) or (8) of this section. [1999 c.1 §5; 2003 c.668 §1]

197.050 Interstate agreements and compacts; commission powers. Except as provided in ORS 196.150 and 196.155, if an interstate land conservation and development planning agency is created by an interstate agreement or compact entered into by this state, the Land Conservation and Development Commission shall perform the functions of this state with respect to the agreement or compact. If the functions of the interstate planning agency duplicate any of the functions of the commission under ORS 195.020 to 195.040, ORS chapter 197 and ORS 469.350, the commission may:

(1) Negotiate with the interstate agency in defining the areas of responsibility of the commission and the interstate planning agency; and

(2) Cooperate with the interstate planning agency in the performance of its functions. [1973 c.80 §12; 1977 c.664 §8; 1987 c.14 §6; 2001 c.672 §5]

197.055 [1973 c.80 §16; repealed by 1977 c.664 §42]

197.060 Biennial report; draft submission to legislative committee; contents. (1) Prior to the end of each even-numbered year, the Department of Land Conservation and Development shall prepare a written report for submission to the Legislative Assembly of the State of Oregon describing activities and accomplishments of the department, Land Conservation and Development Commission, state agencies, local governments and special districts in carrying out ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197.

(2) A draft of the report required by subsection (1) of this section shall be submitted to the appropriate legislative committee at least 60 days prior to submission of the report to the Legislative Assembly. Comments of the committee shall be incorporated into the final report.

(3) Goals and guidelines adopted by the commission shall be included in the report to the Legislative Assembly submitted under subsection (1) of this section.

(4) The department shall include in its biennial report:

(a) A description of its activities implementing ORS 197.631; and

(b) An accounting of new statutory, land use planning goal and rule requirements and local government compliance with the new requirements pursuant to ORS 197.646. [1973 c.80 §56; 1977 c.664 §9; 1981 c.748 §21b; 2005 c.829 §9; 2007 c.354 §6]

197.065 Biennial report analyzing uses of certain land; annual local government reports. (1) Prior to each odd-numbered year regular legislative session, the Land Conservation and Development Commission shall submit to the appropriate legislative committee a written report analyzing applications approved and denied for:

(a) New and replacement dwellings:

(A) Under ORS 215.213 (1)(d) and (f), (2)(a) and (b), (3) and (4), 215.283 (1)(d) and (e), 215.284 and 215.705; and

(B) On land zoned for forest use under any statewide planning goal that relates to forestland;

(b) Divisions of land:

(A) Under ORS 215.263 (2), (4) and (5); and

(B) On land zoned for forest use under any statewide planning goal that relates to forestland, including a division under ORS 215.785;

(A) Under ORS 215.317 or 215.327; and

(B) On any land zoned for forest use under any statewide planning goal that relates to forestland; and

(d) Such other matters pertaining to protection of agricultural or forest land as the commission deems appropriate.

(2) The governing body of each county shall provide the Department of Land Conservation and Development with a report of its actions involving those dwellings, land divisions and land designations upon which the commission must report to the appropriate legislative committee under subsection (1) of this section. The department shall establish, after consultation with county governing bodies, an annual reporting period and may establish a schedule for receiving county reports at intervals within the reporting period. The report shall be on a standard form with a standardized explanation adopted by the commission and shall be eligible for grants by the commission. The report shall include the findings for each action except actions involving:

(a) Dwellings authorized by ORS 215.213 (1)(d) or 215.283 (1)(d); or

(b) Land divisions authorized by ORS 215.263 (2) creating parcels as large as or larger than a minimum size established by the commission under ORS 215.780.

(3) The governing body of each county shall, upon request by the department, provide the department with other information necessary to carry out subsection (1) of this section. [1983 c.826 §13; 1985 c.811 §9; 1987 c.555 §4; 1989 c.107 §1; 1993 c.792 §9; 2001 c.704 §9; 2007 c.354 §7; 2009 c.850 §3; 2011 c.545 §34; 2015 c.104 §4]

197.070 Public inspection of assessments prepared by commission. The Land Conservation and Development Commission shall keep on file and available for public inspection the assessments prepared pursuant to ORS 197.040 and 197.230. [1995 c.299 §3]

DEPARTMENT OF LAND CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT

197.075 Department of Land Conservation and Development. The Department of Land Conservation and Development is established. The department shall consist of the Land Conservation and Development Commission, the Director of the Department of Land Conservation and Development and their subordinate officers and employees. [1973 c.80 §4]

Note: Section 11, chapter 592, Oregon Laws 2021, provides:

Sec. 11. Updating land use planning to incorporate wildfire risk. (1) As used in this section, “defensible space” has the meaning given that term in section 8 of this 2021 Act [476.390].

(2) The Department of Land Conservation and Development shall identify updates to the statewide land use planning program and local comprehensive plans and zoning codes that are needed in order to incorporate wildfire risk maps and minimize wildfire risk, including the appropriate levels of state and local resources necessary for effective implementation.

(3) Updates may include, but need not be limited to, provisions regarding sufficient defensible space, building codes, safe evacuation and development considerations in areas of extreme and high wildfire risk, allowing for regional differences.

(4) On or before October 1, 2022, the Department of Land Conservation and Development shall:

(a) Complete the updates.

(b) Report to a committee or interim committee of the Legislative Assembly related to wildfire, in the manner provided in ORS 192.245, to the State Wildfire Programs Director and to the Wildfire Programs Advisory Council on the updates. The report must include recommendations concerning the updates.

(5) As necessary to identify needed updates and develop the recommendations required by subsection (4)(b) of this section, the department may consult with the State Fire Marshal, the State Forestry Department, the Department of Consumer and Business Services and local governments. [2021 c.592 §11]

197.080 [1973 c.80 §55; 1977 c.664 §10; 1981 c.748 §21c; repealed by 2007 c.354 §1]

197.085 Director; appointment; compensation and expenses. (1) The Land Conservation and Development Commission shall appoint a person to serve as the Director of the Department of Land Conservation and Development. The director shall hold the office of the director at the pleasure of the commission and the salary of the director shall be fixed by the commission unless otherwise provided by law.

(2) In addition to salary, the director shall be reimbursed, subject to any applicable law regulating travel and other expenses of state officers and employees, for actual and necessary expenses incurred by the director in the performance of official duties. [1973 c.80 §13]

197.090 Duties and authority of director; appealing local land use decision; rules. (1) Subject to policies adopted by the Land Conservation and Development Commission, the Director of the Department of Land Conservation and Development shall:

(a) Be the administrative head of the Department of Land Conservation and Development.

(b) Coordinate the activities of the department in its land conservation and development functions with such functions of federal agencies, other state agencies, local governments and special districts.

(c) Appoint, reappoint, assign and reassign all subordinate officers and employees of the department, prescribe their duties and fix their compensation, subject to the State Personnel Relations Law.

(d) Represent this state before any agency of this state, any other state or the United States with respect to land conservation and development within this state.

(2)(a) Subject to local government requirements and the provisions of ORS 197.830 to 197.845, the director may participate in and seek review of:

(A) A land use decision, expedited land division or limited land use decision involving the goals or involving an acknowledged comprehensive plan and land use regulations implementing the plan; or

(B) Any other matter within the statutory authority of the department or commission under ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197.

(b) The director shall report to the commission on each case in which the department participates and on the positions taken by the director in each case.

(c) If a meeting of the commission is scheduled prior to the close of the period for seeking review of a land use decision, expedited land division or limited land use decision, the director shall obtain formal approval from the commission prior to seeking review of the decision. However, if the land use decision, expedited land division or limited land use decision becomes final less than 15 days before a meeting of the commission, the director shall proceed as provided in paragraph (d) of this subsection. If the director requests approval from the commission, the applicant and the affected local government shall be notified in writing that the director is seeking commission approval. The director, the applicant and the affected local government shall be given reasonable time to address the commission regarding the director’s request for approval to seek review. The parties shall limit their testimony to the factors established under subsection (3) of this section. No other testimony shall be taken by the commission.

(d) If a meeting of the commission is not scheduled prior to the close of the period for seeking review of a land use decision, expedited land division or limited land use decision, at the next commission meeting the director shall report to the commission on each case for which the department has sought review. The director shall request formal approval to proceed with each appeal. The applicant and the affected local government shall be notified of the commission meeting in writing by the director. The director, the applicant and the affected local government shall be given reasonable time to address the commission regarding the director’s request for approval to proceed with the appeal. The parties shall limit their testimony to the factors established under subsection (3) of this section. No other testimony shall be taken by the commission. If the commission does not formally approve an appeal, the director shall file a motion with the appropriate tribunal to dismiss the appeal.

(e) A decision by the commission under this subsection is not subject to appeal.

(f) For purposes of this subsection, “applicant” means a person seeking approval of a permit, as defined in ORS 215.402 or 227.160, expedited land division or limited land use decision.

(3) The commission by rule shall adopt a set of factors for the commission to consider when determining whether to appeal or intervene in the appeal of a land use decision, expedited land division or limited land use decision that involves the application of the goals, acknowledged comprehensive plan, land use regulation or other matter within the authority of the department or commission under ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197.

(4) The director may intervene in an appeal of a land use decision, expedited land division or limited land use decision brought by another person in the manner provided for an appeal by the director under subsection (2)(c) and (d) of this section. [1973 c.80 §14; 1979 c.772 §7d; 1981 c.748 §21d; 1983 c.827 §2; 1991 c.817 §20; 1995 c.595 §23; 1999 c.292 §1; 2010 c.8 §8; 2010 c.107 §10]

197.095 Land Conservation and Development Account. (1) There is established in the General Fund in the State Treasury the Land Conservation and Development Account. Moneys in the account are continuously appropriated for the purpose of carrying out ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197.

(2) All fees, moneys and other revenue received by the Department of Land Conservation and Development shall be deposited in the Land Conservation and Development Account. [1973 c.80 §15; 1977 c.664 §11; 1981 c.748 §21e; 2007 c.354 §8]

197.125 [1973 c.80 §22; repealed by 2007 c.354 §1]

197.130 [1973 c.80 §23; 1975 c.530 §6; 1977 c.891 §8; 1981 c.748 §23; 1987 c.158 §33; repealed by 2007 c.354 §1]

197.135 [1973 c.80 §24; 1981 c.748 §24; repealed by 2007 c.354 §1]

ADVISORY COMMITTEES

197.158 Policy-neutral review and audit of statewide land use program. (1) The Land Conservation and Development Commission, in cooperation with the Oregon Law Commission and other public or private entities, may, as resources are available, appoint a work group to conduct a policy-neutral review and audit of ORS chapters 195, 196, 197, 215 and 227, the statewide land use planning goals and the rules of the commission implementing the goals.

(2) The commission shall sequence any review based on its judgment as to which aspects of the statewide land use program are most in need of updating.

(3) A review undertaken under this section should, but does not have to, include appropriate involvement of local government, professional land use planning, private legal and other representatives.

(4) Recommendations should, but do not have to, address major policies and key procedures that are most appropriate for enactment by law and what policies and procedures are most appropriate for adoption by statewide land use planning goals or rules to allow for greater variation between regions of the state over time and to reduce complexity. [2009 c.873 §17]

Note: 197.158 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 197 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

197.160 State Citizen Involvement Advisory Committee; city and county citizen advisory committees. (1) To assure widespread citizen involvement in all phases of the planning process:

(a) The Land Conservation and Development Commission shall appoint a State Citizen Involvement Advisory Committee, broadly representative of geographic areas of the state and of interests relating to land uses and land use decisions, to develop a program for the commission that promotes and enhances public participation in the adoption and amendment of the goals and guidelines.

(b) Each city and county governing body shall submit to the commission, on a periodic basis established by commission rule, a program for citizen involvement in preparing, adopting and amending comprehensive plans and land use regulations within the respective city and county. Such program shall at least contain provision for a citizen advisory committee or committees broadly representative of geographic areas and of interests relating to land uses and land use decisions.

(c) The State Citizen Involvement Advisory Committee appointed under paragraph (a) of this subsection shall review the proposed programs submitted by each city and county and report to the commission whether or not the proposed program adequately provides for public involvement in the planning process, and, if it does not so provide, in what respects it is inadequate.

(2) The State Citizen Involvement Advisory Committee is limited to an advisory role to the commission. It has no express or implied authority over any local government or state agency. [1973 c.80 §35; 1981 c.748 §25; 1983 c.740 §49]

197.165 Local Officials Advisory Committee. For the purpose of promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between the Land Conservation and Development Commission and local government in the implementation of ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197 and the goals, the commission shall appoint a Local Officials Advisory Committee. The committee shall be comprised of persons serving as city or county elected officials and its membership shall reflect the city, county and geographic diversity of the state. The committee shall advise and assist the commission on its policies and programs affecting local governments. [1977 c.664 §7; 1981 c.748 §25a]

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING RESPONSIBILITIES

197.173 Findings regarding coordination between state agencies and local governments. The Legislative Assembly finds and declares that:

(1) Improving coordination and consistency between the duties and actions of state agencies that affect land use and the duties and actions of local governments under comprehensive plans and land use regulations is required to ensure that the actions of state agencies complement both state and local land use planning objectives.

(2) Improved coordination is necessary to streamline state and local permitting procedures.

(3) The Department of Land Conservation and Development has not engaged in a formal and concerted effort to update state agency land use coordination programs since 1989, and that state agency rules, plans and programs affecting land use and local government comprehensive plans and land use regulations have changed substantially since that time.

(4) Rules of the Land Conservation and Development Commission regarding state agency land use coordination and state permit compliance and compatibility should be:

(a) Reviewed to eliminate unclear or conflicting provisions and to ensure that local land use decisions authorizing a use generally precede state agency decisions on permits for the use or for aspects of the use; and

(b) Updated regularly to maintain a high level of coordination between state agencies and local governments in reviewing authorizations for a use of property. [2009 c.606 §1]

Note: 197.173 was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 197 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

197.175 Cities’ and counties’ planning responsibilities; rules on incorporations; compliance with goals. (1) Cities and counties shall exercise their planning and zoning responsibilities, including, but not limited to, a city or special district boundary change which shall mean the annexation of unincorporated territory by a city, the incorporation of a new city and the formation or change of organization of or annexation to any special district authorized by ORS 198.705 to 198.955, 199.410 to 199.534 or 451.010 to 451.620, in accordance with ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197 and the goals approved under ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197. The Land Conservation and Development Commission shall adopt rules clarifying how the goals apply to the incorporation of a new city. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 15, chapter 827, Oregon Laws 1983, the rules shall take effect upon adoption by the commission. The applicability of rules promulgated under this section to the incorporation of cities prior to August 9, 1983, shall be determined under the laws of this state.

(2) Pursuant to ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197, each city and county in this state shall:

(a) Prepare, adopt, amend and revise comprehensive plans in compliance with goals approved by the commission;

(b) Enact land use regulations to implement their comprehensive plans;

(c) If its comprehensive plan and land use regulations have not been acknowledged by the commission, make land use decisions and limited land use decisions in compliance with the goals;

(d) If its comprehensive plan and land use regulations have been acknowledged by the commission, make land use decisions and limited land use decisions in compliance with the acknowledged plan and land use regulations; and

(e) Make land use decisions and limited land use decisions subject to an unacknowledged amendment to a comprehensive plan or land use regulation in compliance with those land use goals applicable to the amendment.

(3) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, the commission shall not initiate by its own action any annexation of unincorporated territory pursuant to ORS 222.111 to 222.750 or formation of and annexation of territory to any district authorized by ORS 198.510 to 198.915 or 451.010 to 451.620. [1973 c.80 §§17,18; 1977 c.664 §12; 1981 c.748 §15; 1983 c.827 §3; 1989 c.761 §18; 1991 c.817 §21; 1993 c.792 §45; 1999 c.348 §4]

197.178 Development applications; reporting to Department of Land Conservation and Development. (1) Local governments with comprehensive plans or functional plans that are identified in ORS 197.296 (1) shall compile and report annually to the Department of Land Conservation and Development the following information for all applications received under ORS 227.175 for residential permits and residential zone changes:

(a) The total number of complete applications received for residential development, and the number of applications approved;

(b) The total number of complete applications received for development of housing containing one or more housing units that are sold or rented below market rate as part of a local, state or federal housing assistance program, and the number of applications approved; and

(A) The date the application was received;

(B) The date the application was approved or denied;

(D) The maximum allowed net residential density for the subject zone; and

(E) If approved, the approved net residential density.

(2) The report required by this section may be submitted electronically. [1997 c.763 §5; 2011 c.354 §1; 2017 c.745 §9]

197.180 State agency planning responsibilities; determination of compliance with goals and compatibility with plans; coordination between agencies and local governments; rules; exceptions. (1) Except as provided in ORS 197.277 or subsection (2) of this section or unless expressly exempted by another statute from any of the requirements of this section, state agencies shall carry out their planning duties, powers and responsibilities and take actions that are authorized by law with respect to programs affecting land use:

(a) In compliance with the goals, rules implementing the goals and rules implementing this section; and

(b) In a manner compatible with acknowledged comprehensive plans and land use regulations.

(2) State agencies need not comply with subsection (1)(b) of this section if a state agency rule, plan or program relating to land use was not in effect when the comprehensive plan provision or land use regulation with which the action would be incompatible was acknowledged and the agency has demonstrated that:

(a) The state agency rule, plan or program is mandated by state statute or federal law;

(b) The state agency rule, plan or program is consistent with the goals;

(c) The state agency rule, plan or program has objectives that cannot be achieved in a manner compatible with the acknowledged comprehensive plan and land use regulations; and

(d) The agency has complied with its certified state agency coordination program.

(3) Unless federal or state law requires otherwise, the Land Conservation and Development Commission, by rule, may specify the sequence of a local government land use decision and a state agency action concerning the same, similar or related uses or activities.

(4) Upon request by the commission, each state agency shall submit to the Department of Land Conservation and Development the following information:

(a) Agency rules and summaries of state agency plans and programs affecting land use;

(b) A program for coordination pursuant to ORS 197.040 (2)(e);

(d) A program for cooperation with and technical assistance to local governments.

(5) Within 90 days of receipt, the Director of the Department of Land Conservation and Development shall review the information submitted pursuant to subsection (4) of this section and shall notify each state agency if the director believes the state agency rules, plans or programs submitted are insufficient to ensure compliance with goals and compatibility with acknowledged comprehensive plans and land use regulations.

(6) Within 90 days of receipt of notification specified in subsection (5) of this section, the state agency may revise the state agency rules, plans or programs and resubmit them to the director.

(7) The director shall make findings under subsections (5) and (6) of this section as to whether the state agency rules, plans or programs are sufficient to ensure compliance with the goals and compatibility with acknowledged city and county comprehensive plans and land use regulations and shall forward the rules and summaries of state agency plans or programs to the commission for its action. The commission shall either certify the state agency rules, plans or programs as compliant with the goals and compatible with the acknowledged comprehensive plans and land use regulations of affected local governments or shall determine the same to be insufficient.

(8) The department shall report, to the appropriate committee of the House and the Senate and to the subcommittee of the Joint Ways and Means Committee that considers the state agency budget, any agency that has failed to meet the requirements of subsection (7) of this section.

(9) Any state agency that has failed to meet the requirements of subsection (7) of this section shall report the reasons therefor to the appropriate committee of the House and the Senate and to the subcommittee of the Joint Ways and Means Committee that considers the agency budget.

(10) Until rules and state agency plans and programs are certified as compliant with the goals and compatible with the acknowledged comprehensive plans and land use regulations of affected local governments, the state agency shall make findings when adopting or amending its rules and state agency plans and programs as to the applicability and application of the goals or acknowledged comprehensive plans, as appropriate.

(11) The commission shall adopt rules establishing procedures to ensure that state agency permits affecting land use are issued in compliance with the goals and compatible with acknowledged comprehensive plans and land use regulations, as required by subsection (1) of this section. The rules must prescribe the circumstances in which state agencies may rely upon a determination of compliance with the goals or compatibility with the acknowledged comprehensive plan.

(12) A state agency required to have a land use coordination program shall participate in a local government land use hearing, except a hearing under ORS 197.610 to 197.625, only in a manner that is consistent with the coordination program, unless the agency participated in the local government’s periodic review pursuant to ORS 197.633 and raised the issue that is the basis for participation in the land use hearing.

(13) State agency rules, plans or programs affecting land use are not compatible with an acknowledged comprehensive plan if the state agency takes or approves an action that is not allowed under the acknowledged comprehensive plan. However, a state agency may apply statutes and rules to deny, condition or further restrict an action of the state agency or of any applicant before the state agency if the state agency applies those statutes and rules to the uses planned for in the acknowledged comprehensive plan.

(14) In cooperation with local governments and state agencies whose rules, plans or programs affect land use, the department periodically shall:

(a) Identify aspects of coordination related to uses that require the issuance of multiple permits from state agencies and local governments.

(b) Update and improve rules regulating the effectiveness and efficiency of state agency coordination programs.

(15) This section does not apply to rules, plans, programs, decisions, determinations or activities carried out under ORS 527.610 to 527.770, 527.990 (1) and 527.992. [1973 c.80 §21; 1977 c.664 §13; 1981 c.748 §16; 1983 c.827 §4; 1987 c.555 §1; 1987 c.919 §3; 1989 c.761 §19; 1991 c.612 §9; 1995 c.595 §30; 1999 c.622 §8; 2009 c.606 §3]

197.183 Local government to notify Department of Aviation of applications received for certain water impoundments. (1) A local government shall provide notice to the Oregon Department of Aviation when the local government or its designee receives an application for a comprehensive plan amendment, zone change or permit as defined in ORS 215.402 or 227.160 that, if approved, would result in a water impoundment larger than one-quarter acre within 10,000 feet of an airport identified in ORS 836.610 (1).

(2) The department has no authority to make final a determination regarding a new water impoundment described in ORS 836.623. Determinations regarding such impoundments shall be made by local governments as provided in ORS 836.623. [1997 c.859 §10; 1999 c.935 §19]

197.185 [1973 c.80 §20; 1977 c.664 §14; 1981 c.748 §26; 1993 c.804 §1; renumbered 195.020 in 1993]

197.186 Removal from buildable lands inventory of land subject to open space tax assessment; reapplication for assessment. (1) At periodic review under ORS 197.633 next following approval of an application under ORS 308A.309, the local government shall remove any lot or parcel subject to the application from any inventory of buildable lands maintained by the local government. The local government shall compensate for the resulting reduction in available buildable lands either by increasing the development capacity of the remaining supply of buildable lands or by expanding the urban growth boundary.

(2) A landowner who wishes to reapply for current open space use assessment under ORS 308A.306 following the end of the assessment period shall reapply with the local government as provided in ORS 308A.309. [1999 c.503 §5]

197.190 [1973 c.80 §19; 1977 c.664 §15; 1981 c.748 §27; 1983 c.350 §1; renumbered 195.025 in 1993]

197.195 Limited land use decision; procedures. (1) A limited land use decision shall be consistent with applicable provisions of city or county comprehensive plans and land use regulations. Such a decision may include conditions authorized by law. Within two years of September 29, 1991, cities and counties shall incorporate all comprehensive plan standards applicable to limited land use decisions into their land use regulations. A decision to incorporate all, some, or none of the applicable comprehensive plan standards into land use regulations shall be undertaken as a post-acknowledgment amendment under ORS 197.610 to 197.625. If a city or county does not incorporate its comprehensive plan provisions into its land use regulations, the comprehensive plan provisions may not be used as a basis for a decision by the city or county or on appeal from that decision.

(2) A limited land use decision is not subject to the requirements of ORS 197.797.

(3) A limited land use decision is subject to the requirements of paragraphs (a) to (c) of this subsection.

(a) In making a limited land use decision, the local government shall follow the applicable procedures contained within its acknowledged comprehensive plan and land use regulations and other applicable legal requirements.

(b) For limited land use decisions, the local government shall provide written notice to owners of property within 100 feet of the entire contiguous site for which the application is made. The list shall be compiled from the most recent property tax assessment roll. For purposes of review, this requirement shall be deemed met when the local government can provide an affidavit or other certification that such notice was given. Notice shall also be provided to any neighborhood or community organization recognized by the governing body and whose boundaries include the site.

(A) Provide a 14-day period for submission of written comments prior to the decision;

(B) State that issues which may provide the basis for an appeal to the Land Use Board of Appeals shall be raised in writing prior to the expiration of the comment period. Issues shall be raised with sufficient specificity to enable the decision maker to respond to the issue;

(D) Set forth the street address or other easily understood geographical reference to the subject property;

(E) State the place, date and time that comments are due;

(F) State that copies of all evidence relied upon by the applicant are available for review, and that copies can be obtained at cost;

(G) Include the name and phone number of a local government contact person;

(H) Provide notice of the decision to the applicant and any person who submits comments under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph. The notice of decision must include an explanation of appeal rights; and

(I) Briefly summarize the local decision making process for the limited land use decision being made.

(4) Approval or denial of a limited land use decision shall be based upon and accompanied by a brief statement that explains the criteria and standards considered relevant to the decision, states the facts relied upon in rendering the decision and explains the justification for the decision based on the criteria, standards and facts set forth.

(5) A local government may provide for a hearing before the local government on appeal of a limited land use decision under this section. The hearing may be limited to the record developed pursuant to the initial hearing under subsection (3) of this section or may allow for the introduction of additional testimony or evidence. A hearing on appeal that allows the introduction of additional testimony or evidence shall comply with the requirements of ORS 197.797. Written notice of the decision rendered on appeal shall be given to all parties who appeared, either orally or in writing, before the hearing. The notice of decision shall include an explanation of the rights of each party to appeal the decision. [1991 c.817 §3; 1995 c.595 §1; 1997 c.844 §1]

197.200 Refinement plan; procedures for land division, site or design review within area subject to plan. (1) A local government may convene a land use proceeding to adopt a refinement plan for a neighborhood or community within its jurisdiction and inside the urban growth boundary as provided in this section.

(2) A refinement plan is more detailed than a comprehensive plan and applies to a specific geographic area. A refinement plan shall:

(a) Establish efficient density ranges, including a minimum and a maximum density for residential land uses;

(b) Establish minimum and maximum floor area ratios or site coverage requirements for nonresidential uses;

(d) Include land use regulations to implement the plan.

(3) A refinement plan and associated land use regulations adopted prior to September 9, 1995, may qualify as a refinement plan if the local government holds a public hearing to gather public comment and decides to adopt the plan as a refinement plan under this section.

(4) A local government shall apply the procedures for expedited land divisions described in ORS 197.360 to 197.380 to all applications for land division and site or design review located in any area subject to an acknowledged refinement plan. The review shall include:

(a) All elements of a local government comprehensive plan and land use regulations that must be applied in order to approve or deny any such application; and

(b) Any planned unit development standards and any procedures designed to regulate:

(A) The physical characteristics of permitted uses;

(B) The dimensions of the lots to be created; or

(5) Any decision made on a refinement plan described in subsection (3) of this section shall be appealed only as provided for appeals of expedited land division decisions in ORS 197.375.

(6) Refinement plans and implementing ordinances may be adopted through the post-acknowledgment or periodic review process. [1995 c.595 §15]

GOALS COMPLIANCE

197.225 Preparation; adoption. The Department of Land Conservation and Development shall prepare and the Land Conservation and Development Commission shall adopt goals and guidelines for use by state agencies, local governments and special districts in preparing, adopting, amending and implementing existing and future comprehensive plans. [1973 c.80 §33; 1981 c.748 §27a]

197.230 Considerations; finding of need required for adoption or amendment of goal. (1) In preparing, adopting and amending goals and guidelines, the Department of Land Conservation and Development and the Land Conservation and Development Commission shall:

(a) Assess:

(A) What economic and property interests will be, or are likely to be, affected by the proposed goal or guideline;

(B) The likely degree of economic impact on identified property and economic interests; and

(C) Whether alternative actions are available that would achieve the underlying lawful governmental objective and would have a lesser economic impact.

(b) Consider the existing comprehensive plans of local governments and the plans and programs affecting land use of state agencies and special districts in order to preserve functional and local aspects of land conservation and development.

(A) Lands adjacent to freeway interchanges;

(B) Estuarine areas;

(D) Lakes and lakeshore areas;

(E) Wilderness, recreational and outstanding scenic areas;

(F) Beaches, dunes, coastal headlands and related areas;

(G) Wild and scenic rivers and related lands;

(H) Floodplains and areas of geologic hazard;

(I) Unique wildlife habitats; and

(J) Agricultural land.

(d) Make a finding of statewide need for the adoption of any new goal or the amendment of any existing goal.

(e) Design goals to allow a reasonable degree of flexibility in the application of goals by state agencies, cities, counties and special districts.

(2) Goals shall not be land management regulations for specified geographic areas established through designation of an area of critical state concern under ORS 197.405.

(3) The requirements of subsection (1)(a) of this section shall not be interpreted as requiring an assessment for each lot or parcel that could be affected by the proposed rule.

(4) The commission may exempt cities with a population less than 10,000, or those areas of a county inside an urban growth boundary that contain a population less than 10,000, from all or any part of land use planning goals, guidelines and administrative rules that relate to transportation planning. [1973 c.80 §34; 1977 c.664 §17; 1981 c.748 §17; 1983 c.740 §50; 1995 c.299 §2; 1999 c.784 §1]

197.235 Public hearings; notice; citizen involvement implementation; submission of proposals. (1) In preparing the goals and guidelines, the Department of Land Conservation and Development shall:

(a) Hold at least 10 public hearings throughout the state, causing notice of the time, place and purpose of each hearing to be published in a newspaper of general circulation within the area where the hearing is to be conducted not later than 30 days prior to the date of the hearing. At least two public hearings must be held in each congressional district.

(b) Implement any other provision for public involvement developed by the State Citizen Involvement Advisory Committee under ORS 197.160 (1) and approved by the Land Conservation and Development Commission.

(2) Upon completion of the preparation of the proposed goals and guidelines, or amendments to those goals and guidelines, the department shall submit them to the commission, the Local Officials Advisory Committee, the State Citizen Involvement Advisory Committee and the appropriate legislative committee for review.

(3) The commission shall consider the comments of the Local Officials Advisory Committee, the State Citizen Involvement Advisory Committee and the legislative committee before the adoption and amendment of the goals and guidelines.

(4) Notwithstanding subsection (1)(a) of this section, when a legislative enactment or an initiative measure is inconsistent with the adopted goals and guidelines or directs the commission to make a specific change to the adopted goals and guidelines, the commission may amend the goals and guidelines after only one public hearing, at a location determined by the commission, if the proposed amendment:

(a) Is necessary to conform the goals and guidelines to the legislative enactment or the initiative measure; and

(b) Makes no change other than the conforming changes unless the change corrects an obvious scrivener’s error. [1973 c.80 §36; 1981 c.748 §28; 2005 c.147 §1; 2007 c.354 §9]

197.240 Commission action; public hearing; notice; amendment; adoption. Upon receipt of the proposed goals and guidelines prepared and submitted to it by the Department of Land Conservation and Development, the Land Conservation and Development Commission shall:

(1) Hold at least one public hearing on the proposed goals and guidelines. The commission shall cause notice of the time, place and purpose of the hearings and the place where copies of the proposed goals and guidelines are available before the hearings with the cost thereof to be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the state not later than 30 days prior to the date of the hearing. The department shall supply a copy of its proposed goals and guidelines to the Governor, the appropriate legislative committee, affected state agencies and special districts and to each local government without charge. The department shall provide copies of such proposed goals and guidelines to other public agencies or persons upon request and payment of the cost of preparing the copies of the materials requested.

(2) Consider the recommendations and comments received from the public hearings conducted under subsection (1) of this section, make any amendments to the proposed goals and guidelines that it considers necessary and approve the proposed goals and guidelines as they may be amended by the commission. [1973 c.80 §37; 1981 c.748 §28a; 2007 c.354 §10]

197.245 Commission amendment of initial goals; adoption of new goals. The Land Conservation and Development Commission may periodically amend the initial goals and guidelines adopted under ORS 197.240 and adopt new goals and guidelines. The adoption of amendments to or of new goals shall be done in the manner provided in ORS 197.235 and 197.240 and shall specify with particularity those goal provisions that are applicable to land use decisions, expedited land divisions and limited land use decisions before plan revision. The commission shall establish the effective date for application of a new or amended goal. Absent a compelling reason, the commission shall not require a comprehensive plan, new or amended land use regulation, land use decision, expedited land division or limited land use decision to be consistent with a new or amended goal until one year after the date of adoption. [1973 c.80 §38; 1981 c.748 §29; 1991 c.612 §10; 1991 c.817 §22a; 1995 c.595 §24]

197.247 [1983 c.826 §2; repealed by 1993 c.792 §55]

197.250 Compliance with goals required. Except as otherwise provided in ORS 197.245, all comprehensive plans and land use regulations adopted by a local government to carry out those comprehensive plans and all plans, programs, rules or regulations affecting land use adopted by a state agency or special district shall be in compliance with the goals within one year after the date those goals are approved by the Land Conservation and Development Commission. [1973 c.80 §32; 1977 c.664 §19; 1981 c.748 §29a; 1983 c.827 §56a]

197.251 Compliance acknowledgment; commission review; rules; limited acknowledgment; compliance schedule. (1) Upon the request of a local government, the Land Conservation and Development Commission shall by order grant, deny or continue acknowledgment of compliance of comprehensive plan and land use regulations with the goals. A commission order granting, denying or continuing acknowledgment shall be entered within 90 days of the date of the request by the local government unless the commission finds that due to extenuating circumstances a period of time greater than 90 days is required.

(2) In accordance with rules of the commission, the Director of the Department of Land Conservation and Development shall prepare a report for the commission stating whether the comprehensive plan and land use regulations for which acknowledgment is sought are in compliance with the goals. The rules of the commission shall:

(a) Provide a reasonable opportunity for persons to prepare and to submit to the director written comments and objections to the acknowledgment request; and

(b) Authorize the director to investigate and in the report to resolve issues raised in the comments and objections or by the director’s own review of the comprehensive plan and land use regulations.

(3) Upon completion of the report and before the commission meeting at which the director’s report is to be considered, the director shall afford the local government and persons who submitted written comments or objections a reasonable opportunity to file written exceptions to the report.

(4) The commission’s review of the acknowledgment request shall be confined to the record of proceedings before the local government, any comments, objections and exceptions filed under subsections (2) and (3) of this section and the report of the director. Upon its consideration of an acknowledgment request, the commission may entertain oral argument from the director and from persons who filed written comments, objections or exceptions. However, the commission shall not allow additional evidence or testimony that could have been presented to the local government or to the director but was not.

(5) A commission order granting, denying or continuing acknowledgment shall include a clear statement of findings which sets forth the basis for the approval, denial or continuance of acknowledgment. The findings shall:

(a) Identify the goals applicable to the comprehensive plan and land use regulations; and

(b) Include a clear statement of findings in support of the determinations of compliance and noncompliance.

(6) A commission order granting acknowledgment shall be limited to an identifiable geographic area described in the order if:

(a) Only the identified geographic area is the subject of the acknowledgment request; or

(b) Specific geographic areas do not comply with the applicable goals, and the goal requirements are not technical or minor in nature.

(7) The commission may issue a limited acknowledgment order when a previously issued acknowledgment order is reversed or remanded by the Court of Appeals or the Oregon Supreme Court. Such a limited acknowledgment order may deny or continue acknowledgment of that part of the comprehensive plan or land use regulations that the court found not in compliance or not consistent with the goals and grant acknowledgment of all other parts of the comprehensive plan and land use regulations.

(8) A limited acknowledgment order shall be considered an acknowledgment for all purposes and shall be a final order for purposes of judicial review with respect to the acknowledged geographic area. A limited order may be adopted in conjunction with a continuance or denial order.

(9) The director shall notify the Real Estate Agency, the local government and all persons who filed comments or objections with the director of any grant, denial or continuance of acknowledgment.

(10) The commission may grant a planning extension, which shall be a grant of additional time for a local government to comply with the goals in accordance with a compliance schedule. A compliance schedule shall be a listing of the tasks which the local government must complete in order to bring its comprehensive plan, land use regulations, land use decisions and limited land use decisions into initial compliance with the goals, including a generalized time schedule showing when the tasks are estimated to be completed and when a comprehensive plan or land use regulations which comply with the goals are estimated to be adopted. In developing a compliance schedule, the commission shall consider the population, geographic area, resources and capabilities of the city or county.

(11) As used in this section:

(a) “Continuance” means a commission order that:

(A) Certifies that all or part of a comprehensive plan, land use regulations or both a comprehensive plan and land use regulations do not comply with one or more goals;

(B) Specifies amendments or other action that must be completed within a specified time period for acknowledgment to occur; and

(C) Is a final order for purposes of judicial review of the comprehensive plan, land use regulations or both the comprehensive plan and land use regulations as to the parts found consistent or in compliance with the goals.

(b) “Denial” means a commission order that:

(A) Certifies that a comprehensive plan, land use regulations or both a comprehensive plan and land use regulations do not comply with one or more goals;

(B) Specifies amendments or other action that must be completed for acknowledgment to occur; and

(C) Is used when the amendments or other changes required in the comprehensive plan, land use regulations or both the comprehensive plan and land use regulations affect many goals and are likely to take a substantial period of time to complete. [1977 c.766 §18; 1979 c.242 §3; 1981 c.748 §7; 1983 c.827 §5; 1985 c.811 §13; 1991 c.817 §23; 1993 c.438 §2]

197.252 [1977 c.664 §20a; 1979 c.772 §7a; repealed by 1981 c.748 §56]

197.253 Participation in local proceedings required for submitting comments and objections. Notwithstanding the provisions of ORS 197.251 (2)(a), a person may not submit written comments and objections to the acknowledgment request of any city or county that submits its plan or regulations to the Land Conservation and Development Commission for acknowledgment for the first time after August 9, 1983, unless the person participated either orally or in writing in the local government proceedings leading to the adoption of the plan and regulations. [1983 c.827 §5a]

197.254 Bar to contesting acknowledgment, appealing or seeking amendment. (1) A state agency is barred, after the date set for submission of programs by the Land Conservation and Development Commission as provided in ORS 197.180 (4), from contesting a request for acknowledgment submitted by a local government under ORS 197.251 or from filing an appeal of a post-acknowledgement change under ORS 197.610 to 197.625 to a comprehensive plan or a land use regulation, if the commission finds that:

(a) The state agency has not complied with ORS 197.180; or

(b) The state agency has not coordinated its plans, programs or rules affecting land use with the comprehensive plan or land use regulations of the city or county pursuant to a coordination program approved by the commission under ORS 197.180.

(2) A state agency is barred from seeking a commission order under ORS 197.644 requiring amendment of a local government comprehensive plan or a land use regulation in order to comply with the agency’s plan or program unless the agency has first requested the amendment from the local government and has had its request denied.

(3) A special district is barred from contesting a request for initial compliance acknowledgment submitted by a local government under ORS 197.251 or from filing an appeal of a post-acknowledgement change under ORS 197.610 to 197.625 to a comprehensive plan or a land use regulation, if the county or metropolitan service district assigned coordinative functions under ORS 195.025 (1) finds that:

(a) The special district has not entered into a cooperative agreement under ORS 195.020; or

(b) The special district has not coordinated its plans, programs or regulations affecting land use with the comprehensive plan or land use regulations of the local government pursuant to its cooperative agreement made under ORS 195.020.

(4) A special district is barred from seeking a commission order under ORS 197.644 requiring amendment of a local government comprehensive plan or a land use regulation in order to comply with the special district’s plan or program unless the special district has first requested the amendment from the local government and has had its request denied. [1977 c.664 §16; 1981 c.748 §11; 1983 c.827 §57; 1991 c.612 §11; 2009 c.606 §4; 2011 c.280 §7]

197.255 [1973 c.80 §39; 1981 c.748 §29b; 1983 c.827 §57a; renumbered 195.035 in 1993]

197.256 Acknowledgment deadline for newly incorporated cities. Cities incorporated after January 1, 1982, shall have their comprehensive plans and land use regulations acknowledged under ORS 197.251 no later than four years after the date of incorporation. [Formerly 197.757]

197.260 [1973 c.80 §44; 1981 c.748 §29c; renumbered 195.040 in 1993]

197.265 State compensation for costs of defending compliance actions. (1) As used in this section, “action” includes but is not limited to a proceeding under ORS 197.830 to 197.845.

(2) If any action is brought against a local government challenging any comprehensive plan, land use regulation or other action of the local government which was adopted or taken for the primary purpose of complying with the goals approved under ORS 197.240 and which does in fact comply with the goals, then the Land Conservation and Development Commission shall pay reasonable attorney fees and court costs incurred by such local government in the action or suit including any appeal, to the extent funds have been specifically appropriated to the commission therefor. [1977 c.898 §2; 1979 c.772 §7b; 1981 c.748 §39; 1983 c.827 §6]

197.270 Copies of comprehensive plan and land use regulations; post review. Within six months following completion of the periodic review process, the affected local government shall file three complete and accurate copies of its comprehensive plan and land use regulations with the Department of Land Conservation and Development. This document can be either a new printing or an up-to-date compilation of the required materials. [1987 c.729 §13]

197.274 Review of Metro regional framework plan. (1) The Metro regional framework plan, its separate components and amendments to the regional framework plan or to its separate components are subject to review:

(a) For compliance with land use planning statutes, statewide land use planning goals and administrative rules corresponding to the statutes and goals, in the same manner as a comprehensive plan for purposes of:

(A) Acknowledgment of compliance with the goals under ORS 197.251; and

(B) Post-acknowledgment procedures under ORS 197.610 to 197.651; and

(b) As a land use decision under ORS 197.805 to 197.855 and 197.860.

(2) With the prior consent of the Land Conservation and Development Commission, Metro may submit to the Department of Land Conservation and Development an amendment to the Metro regional framework plan or to a component of the regional framework plan in the manner provided for periodic review under ORS 197.628 to 197.651, if the amendment implements a program to meet the requirements of a land use planning statute, a statewide land use planning goal or an administrative rule corresponding to a statute or goal. [1993 c.438 §3; 1999 c.59 §55; 1999 c.348 §5; 2003 c.793 §1]

197.275 [1973 c.80 §40; 1977 c.664 §21; repealed by 1981 c.748 §56]

197.277 Oregon Forest Practices Act; exclusion. (1) The goals and rules established in ORS chapters 195, 196 and 197 do not apply to programs, rules, procedures, decisions, determinations or activities carried out under the Oregon Forest Practices Act administered under ORS 527.610 to 527.770, 527.990 (1) and 527.992.

(2) No goal or rule shall be adopted, construed or administered in a manner to require or allow local governments to take any action prohibited by ORS 527.722.

(3) The Land Conservation and Development Commission shall amend goals and rules as necessary to implement ORS 197.180, 197.277, 197.825, 215.050, 477.440, 477.455, 477.460, 526.009, 526.016, 526.156, 527.620, 527.630, 527.660, 527.670, 527.683 to 527.687, 527.715, 527.990 and 527.992. [1987 c.919 §2; 2013 c.307 §5]

197.279 Approved wetland conservation plans comply with goals; exception; rules. (1) Wetland conservation plans approved by the Director of the Department of State Lands pursuant to ORS chapter 196 shall be deemed to comply with the requirements of statewide planning goals relating to other than estuarine wetlands for those areas, uses and activities which are regulated by the wetland conservation plans.

(2) Wetland conservation plans shall be adopted and amended by local governments according to the procedures of ORS 197.610 to 197.625.

(3) The department shall adopt by rule:

(a) Standards for cities and counties to use to inventory and identify wetlands; and

(b) Criteria for cities and counties to use to determine when a wetland is a significant wetland. [1989 c.837 §25; 1995 c.472 §2]

197.280 [1973 c.80 §41; repealed by 1977 c.664 §42 and 1977 c.766 §16]

197.283 Commission to assure protection of ground water resources. (1) The Land Conservation and Development Commission shall take actions it considers necessary to assure that city and county comprehensive plans and land use regulations and state agency coordination programs are consistent with the goal set forth in ORS 468B.155.

(2) The commission shall direct the Department of Land Conservation and Development to take actions the department considers appropriate to assure that any information contained in a city or county comprehensive plan that pertains to the ground water resource of Oregon shall be forwarded to the centralized repository established under ORS 468B.167. [1989 c.833 §48]

197.285 [1973 c.80 §42; repealed by 1981 c.748 §56]

URBAN GROWTH BOUNDARIES AND NEEDED HOUSING WITHIN BOUNDARIES

197.286 Definitions for ORS 197.286 to 197.314 and 197.475 to 197.490. As used in ORS 197.286 to 197.314 and 197.475 to 197.490:

(1) “Buildable lands” means lands in urban and urbanizable areas that are suitable, available and necessary for residential uses. “Buildable lands” includes both vacant land and developed land likely to be redeveloped.

(2) “Manufactured dwelling park” has the meaning given that term in ORS 446.003.

(3) “Government assisted housing” means housing that is financed in whole or part by either a federal or state housing agency or a housing authority as defined in ORS 456.005, or housing that is occupied by a tenant or tenants who benefit from rent supplements or housing vouchers provided by either a federal or state housing agency or a local housing authority.

(4) “Manufactured homes” has the meaning given that term in ORS 446.003.

(5) “Mobile home park” has the meaning given that term in ORS 446.007.

(6) “Periodic review” means the process and procedures as set forth in ORS 197.628 to 197.651.

(7) “Urban growth boundary” means an urban growth boundary included or referenced in a comprehensive plan. [Formerly 197.295]

197.290 Housing production strategy. (1) A city with a population greater than 10,000 shall develop and adopt a housing production strategy under this section no later than one year after the city’s deadline for completing a housing capacity analysis under ORS 197.296 (2)(a) or (10)(b) or 197.297.

(2) A housing production strategy must include a list of specific actions, including the adoption of measures and policies, that the city shall undertake to promote development within the city to address a housing need identified under ORS 197.296 (6)(b) or (10)(b) or 197.297. Actions under this subsection may include:

(a) The reduction of financial and regulatory impediments to developing needed housing, including removing or easing approval standards or procedures for needed housing at higher densities or that is affordable;

(b) The creation of financial and regulatory incentives for development of needed housing, including creating incentives for needed housing at higher densities or that is affordable; and

(c) The development of a plan to access resources available at local, regional, state and national levels to increase the availability and affordability of needed housing.

(3) In creating a housing production strategy, a city shall review and consider:

(a) Socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of households living in existing needed housing;

(b) Market conditions affecting the provision of needed housing;

(d) Existing and expected barriers to the development of needed housing; and

(e) For each action the city includes in its housing production strategy:

(A) The schedule for its adoption;

(B) The schedule for its implementation;

(D) The time frame over which it is expected to impact needed housing.

(4) The housing production strategy must include within its index a copy of the city’s most recently completed survey under ORS 456.586 (2).

(5) The adoption of a housing production strategy is not a land use decision and is not subject to appeal or review except as provided in ORS 197.291.

(6) A city with a population of 10,000 or less may develop a housing production strategy as provided in this section. [2019 c.640 §4; 2021 c.164 §3]

197.291 Review of housing production strategy. (1) No later than 20 days after a city’s adoption or amendment of a housing production strategy under ORS 197.290, a city shall submit the adopted strategy or amended strategy to the Department of Land Conservation and Development.

(2) The submission under subsection (1) of this section must include copies of:

(a) The signed decision adopting the housing production strategy or amended strategy;

(b) The text of the housing production strategy clearly indicating any amendments to the most recent strategy submitted under this section;

(d) The information reviewed and considered under ORS 197.293 (2).

(3) On the same day the city submits notice of the housing production strategy or amended strategy, the city shall provide a notice to persons that participated in the proceedings that led to the adoption of the strategy and requested notice in writing.

(4) Within 10 days of receipt of the submission under subsection (1) of this section, the department shall provide notice to persons described under ORS 197.615 (3).

(5) The notices given under subsections (3) and (4) of this section must state:

(a) How and where materials described in subsection (2) of this section may be freely obtained;

(b) That comments on the strategy may be submitted to the department within 45 days after the department has received the submission; and

(6) Based upon criteria adopted by the Land Conservation and Development Commission, including any criteria adopted under ORS 197.293 (2), the department shall, within 120 days after receiving the submission under subsection (1) of this section:

(a) Approve the housing production strategy;

(b) Approve the housing production strategy, subject to further review and actions under ORS 197.293 (2); or

(7) A determination by the department under subsection (6) of this section is not a land use decision and is final and not subject to appeal. [2019 c.640 §5]

197.293 Identification of cities with unmet housing needs; effect. (1) The Land Conservation and Development Commission, in consultation with the Housing and Community Services Department, shall adopt criteria for reviewing and identifying cities with a population greater than 10,000 that have not sufficiently:

(a) Achieved production of needed housing within their jurisdiction; or

(b) Implemented a housing production strategy adopted under ORS 197.290.

(2) The criteria adopted by the commission under subsection (1) of this section may include the city’s:

(a) Unmet housing need as described in ORS 197.296 (6);

(b) Unmet housing need in proportion to the city’s population;

(d) Recent housing development;

(e) Recent adoption of a housing production strategy under ORS 197.290 or adoption of actions pursuant to a housing production strategy;

(f) Recent or frequent previous identification by the Department of Land Conservation and Development under this section; or

(g) Other attributes that the commission considers relevant.

(3) The Department of Land Conservation and Development may review cities under the criteria adopted under subsection (2) of this section for the purposes of prioritizing actions by the department, including:

(a) Awarding available technical or financial resources;

(b) Providing enhanced review and oversight of the city’s housing production strategy;

(c) Requiring a report and explanation if a city does not implement an action within the approximate time frame scheduled within a housing production strategy;

(d) Entering into agreements with the city relating to the city’s modification or implementation of its housing production strategy; or

(e) Petitioning the commission to act under ORS 197.319 to 197.335 to require the city to comply with ORS 197.286 to 197.314 or statewide land use planning goals related to housing or urbanization. [2019 c.640 §6]

197.295 [1981 c.884 §4; 1983 c.795 §1; 1987 c.785 §1; 1989 c.648 §51; 1991 c.226 §16; 1991 c.612 §12; 1995 c.79 §73; 1995 c.547 §2; 2019 c.422 §29; renumbered 197.286 in 2019]

197.296 Analysis of housing capacity and needed housing by Metro, cities outside of Metro and smaller cities; accommodation of housing need. (1)(a) The provisions of subsections (2) to (9) of this section apply to metropolitan service district regional framework plans and local government comprehensive plans for lands within the urban growth boundary of a city that is located outside of a metropolitan service district and has a population of 25,000 or more.

(b) The Land Conservation and Development Commission may establish a set of factors under which additional cities are subject to the provisions of this section. In establishing the set of factors required under this paragraph, the commission shall consider the size of the city, the rate of population growth of the city or the proximity of the city to another city with a population of 25,000 or more or to a metropolitan service district.

(2)(a) A local government shall demonstrate that its comprehensive plan or regional framework plan provides sufficient buildable lands within the urban growth boundary established pursuant to statewide planning goals to accommodate estimated housing needs for 20 years:

(A) At periodic review under ORS 197.628 to 197.651;

(B) As scheduled by the commission:

(i) At least once each eight years for local governments that are not within a metropolitan service district; or

(ii) At least once each six years for a metropolitan service district; or

(C) At any other legislative review of the comprehensive plan or regional framework plan that concerns the urban growth boundary and requires the application of a statewide planning goal relating to buildable lands for residential use.

(b) The 20-year period shall commence on the date initially scheduled for completion of the review under paragraph (a) of this subsection.

(3) In performing the duties under subsection (2) of this section, a local government shall:

(a) Inventory the supply of buildable lands within the urban growth boundary and determine the housing capacity of the buildable lands; and

(b) Conduct an analysis of existing and projected housing need by type and density range, in accordance with all factors under ORS 197.303 and statewide planning goals and rules relating to housing, to determine the number of units and amount of land needed for each needed housing type for the next 20 years.

(4)(a) For the purpose of the inventory described in subsection (3)(a) of this section, “buildable lands” includes:

(A) Vacant lands planned or zoned for residential use;

(B) Partially vacant lands planned or zoned for residential use;

(D) Lands that may be used for residential infill or redevelopment.

(b) For the purpose of the inventory and determination of housing capacity described in subsection (3)(a) of this section, the local government must demonstrate consideration of:

(A) The extent that residential development is prohibited or restricted by local regulation and ordinance, state law and rule or federal statute and regulation;

(B) A written long term contract or easement for radio, telecommunications or electrical facilities, if the written contract or easement is provided to the local government; and

(c) Except for land that may be used for residential infill or redevelopment, a local government shall create a map or document that may be used to verify and identify specific lots or parcels that have been determined to be buildable lands.

(5)(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this subsection, the determination of housing capacity pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section must be based on data relating to land within the urban growth boundary that has been collected since the last review under subsection (2)(a)(B) of this section. The data shall include:

(A) The number, density and average mix of housing types of urban residential development that have actually occurred;

(B) Trends in density and average mix of housing types of urban residential development;

(D) The number, density and average mix of housing types that have occurred on the buildable lands described in subsection (4)(a) of this section.

(b) A local government shall make the determination described in paragraph (a) of this subsection using a shorter time period than the time period described in paragraph (a) of this subsection if the local government finds that the shorter time period will provide more accurate and reliable data related to housing capacity. The shorter time period may not be less than three years.

(c) A local government shall use data from a wider geographic area or use a time period longer than the time period described in paragraph (a) of this subsection if the analysis of a wider geographic area or the use of a longer time period will provide more accurate, complete and reliable data relating to trends affecting housing need than an analysis performed pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection. The local government must clearly describe the geographic area, time frame and source of data used in a determination performed under this paragraph.

(6) If the housing need determined pursuant to subsection (3)(b) of this section is greater than the housing capacity determined pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section, the local government shall take one or both of the following actions to accommodate the additional housing need:

(a) Amend its urban growth boundary to include sufficient buildable lands to accommodate housing needs for the next 20 years. As part of this process, the local government shall consider the effects of measures taken pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection. The amendment shall include sufficient land reasonably necessary to accommodate the siting of new public school facilities. The need and inclusion of lands for new public school facilities shall be a coordinated process between the affected public school districts and the local government that has the authority to approve the urban growth boundary.

(b) Amend its comprehensive plan, regional framework plan, functional plan or land use regulations to include new measures that demonstrably increase the likelihood that residential development will occur at densities sufficient to accommodate housing needs for the next 20 years without expansion of the urban growth boundary. A local government or metropolitan service district that takes this action shall adopt findings regarding the density expectations assumed to result from measures adopted under this paragraph based upon the factors listed in ORS 197.303 (2) and data in subsection (5)(a) of this section. The density expectations may not project an increase in residential capacity above achieved density by more than three percent without quantifiable validation of such departures. For a local government located outside of a metropolitan service district, a quantifiable validation must demonstrate that the assumed housing capacity has been achieved in areas that are zoned to allow no greater than the same authorized density level within the local jurisdiction or a jurisdiction in the same region. For a metropolitan service district, a quantifiable validation must demonstrate that the assumed housing capacity has been achieved in areas that are zoned to allow no greater than the same authorized density level within the metropolitan service district.

(7) Using the housing need analysis conducted under subsection (3)(b) of this section, the local government shall determine the overall average density and overall mix of housing types at which residential development of needed housing types must occur in order to meet housing needs over the next 20 years. If that density is greater than the actual density of development determined under subsection (5)(a)(A) of this section, or if that mix is different from the actual mix of housing types determined under subsection (5)(a)(A) of this section, the local government, as part of its periodic review, shall adopt measures that demonstrably increase the likelihood that residential development will occur at the housing types and density and at the mix of housing types required to meet housing needs over the next 20 years.

(8)(a) A local government outside a metropolitan service district that takes any actions under subsection (6) or (7) of this section shall demonstrate that the comprehensive plan and land use regulations comply with goals and rules adopted by the commission and implement ORS 197.286 to 197.314.

(b) A local government shall determine the density and mix of housing types anticipated as a result of actions taken under subsections (6) and (7) of this section and monitor and record the actual density and mix of housing types achieved following the adoption of these actions. The local government shall compare actual and anticipated density and mix. The local government shall submit its comparison to the commission at the next review of its urban growth boundary under subsection (2)(a) of this section.

(9) In establishing that actions and measures adopted under subsections (6) and (7) of this section demonstrably increase the likelihood of higher density residential development, the local government shall at a minimum ensure that land zoned for needed housing is in locations appropriate for the housing types identified under subsection (3) of this section, is zoned at density ranges that are likely to be achieved by the housing market using the analysis in subsection (3) of this section and is in areas where sufficient urban services are planned to enable the higher density development to occur over the 20-year period. Actions or measures, or both, may include but are not limited to:

(a) Increases in the permitted density on existing residential land;

(b) Financial incentives for higher density housing;

(c) Provisions permitting additional density beyond that generally allowed in the zoning district in exchange for amenities and features provided by the developer;

(d) Removal or easing of approval standards or procedures;

(e) Minimum density ranges;

(f) Redevelopment and infill strategies;

(g) Authorization of housing types not previously allowed by the plan or regulations;

(h) Adoption of an average residential density standard; and

(i) Rezoning or redesignation of nonresidential land.

(10)(a) The provisions of this subsection apply to local government comprehensive plans for lands within the urban growth boundary of a city that is located outside of a metropolitan service district and has a population of less than 25,000.

(b) As required under paragraph (c) of this subsection, a city shall, according to rules of the commission:

(A) Determine the estimated housing needs within the jurisdiction for the next 20 years;

(B) Inventory the supply of buildable lands available within the urban growth boundary to accommodate the estimated housing needs determined under this subsection; and

(A) At periodic review pursuant to ORS 197.628 to 197.651;

(B) On a schedule established by the commission for cities with a population greater than 10,000, not to exceed once each eight years; or

(C) At any other legislative review of the comprehensive plan that requires the application of a statewide planning goal relating to buildable lands for residential use.

(d) For the purpose of the inventory described in this subsection, “buildable lands” includes those lands described in subsection (4)(a) of this section.

(11) If a city with a population of 10,000 or less conducts an inventory of the supply of buildable lands or an estimate of housing need, it must satisfy the requirements of subsection (10) of this section. [1995 c.547 §3; 2001 c.908 §1; 2003 c.177 §1; 2015 c.27 §19; 2017 c.102 §1; 2019 c.639 §5; 2019 c.640 §8a; 2021 c.164 §3a]

197.297 Analysis of housing capacity and needed housing in Metro cities. (1) At least once every six years, by a date scheduled by the Land Conservation and Development Commission, a city that is within a metropolitan service district and has a population greater than 10,000 shall:

(a) Inventory the supply of buildable lands within the city and determine the housing capacity of the buildable lands; and

(b) Conduct an analysis of the city’s existing and projected needed housing under statewide planning goals and rules related to housing by type, mix, affordability and density range to determine the number of units and amount of land needed for each needed housing type for the next 20 years.

(2) The housing capacity and needed housing analysis conducted under this section must be adopted as part of the city’s comprehensive plan no later than one year after completion of the needed housing analysis.

(3) If the housing capacity and needed housing analysis conducted under this section demonstrates a housing need, the city shall amend its comprehensive plan or land use regulations to include new measures that demonstrably increase the likelihood that development of needed housing will occur for the type, mix, affordability and densities sufficient to accommodate needed housing for the next 20 years. [2021 c.164 §2]

197.298 Priority of land to be included within urban growth boundary. (1) In addition to any requirements established by rule addressing urbanization, land may not be included within an urban growth boundary of Metro except under the following priorities:

(a) First priority is land that is designated urban reserve land under ORS 195.145, rule or metropolitan service district action plan.

(b) If land under paragraph (a) of this subsection is inadequate to accommodate the amount of land needed, second priority is land adjacent to an urban growth boundary that is identified in an acknowledged comprehensive plan as an exception area or nonresource land. Second priority may include resource land that is completely surrounded by exception areas unless such resource land is high-value farmland as described in ORS 215.710.

(c) If land under paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subsection is inadequate to accommodate the amount of land needed, third priority is land designated as marginal land pursuant to ORS 197.247 (1991 Edition).

(d) If land under paragraphs (a) to (c) of this subsection is inadequate to accommodate the amount of land needed, fourth priority is land designated in an acknowledged comprehensive plan for agriculture or forestry, or both.

(2) Higher priority shall be given to land of lower capability as measured by the capability classification system or by cubic foot site class, whichever is appropriate for the current use.

(3) Land of lower priority under subsection (1) of this section may be included in an urban growth boundary if land of higher priority is found to be inadequate to accommodate the amount of land estimated in subsection (1) of this section for one or more of the following reasons:

(a) Specific types of identified land needs cannot be reasonably accommodated on higher priority lands;

(b) Future urban services could not reasonably be provided to the higher priority lands due to topographical or other physical constraints; or

(c) Maximum efficiency of land uses within a proposed urban growth boundary requires inclusion of lower priority lands in order to include or to provide services to higher priority lands.

(4) When a city includes land within the urban growth boundary of the city pursuant to ORS 197.286 to 197.314, the city shall prioritize lands for inclusion as provided in ORS 197A.320. [1995 c.547 §5; 1999 c.59 §56; 2013 c.575 §12]

197.299 Metro accommodation of needed housing and school lands. (1) A metropolitan service district organized under ORS chapter 268 shall complete the inventory, determination and analysis required under ORS 197.296 (3) not later than six years after completion of the previous inventory, determination and analysis.

(2)(a) The metropolitan service district shall take such action as necessary under ORS 197.296 (6)(a) to accommodate one-half of a 20-year buildable land supply determined under ORS 197.296 (3) within one year of completing the analysis.

(b) The metropolitan service district shall take all final action under ORS 197.296 (6)(a) necessary to accommodate a 20-year buildable land supply determined under ORS 197.296 (3) within two years of completing the analysis.

(c) The metropolitan service district shall take action under ORS 197.296 (6)(b), within one year after the analysis required under ORS 197.296 (3)(b) is completed, to provide sufficient buildable land within the urban growth boundary to accommodate the estimated housing needs for 20 years from the time the actions are completed.

(d) The metropolitan service district shall consider and adopt new measures that the governing body deems appropriate under ORS 197.296 (6)(b).

(3) The commission may grant an extension to the time limits of subsection (2) of this section if the Director of the Department of Land Conservation and Development determines that the metropolitan service district has provided good cause for failing to meet the time limits.

(4)(a) The metropolitan service district shall establish a process to expand the urban growth boundary to accommodate a need for land for a public school that cannot reasonably be accommodated within the existing urban growth boundary. The metropolitan service district shall design the process to:

(A) Accommodate a need that must be accommodated between periodic analyses of urban growth boundary capacity required by subsection (1) of this section; and

(B) Provide for a final decision on a proposal to expand the urban growth boundary within four months after submission of a complete application by a large school district as defined in ORS 195.110.

(b) At the request of a large school district, the metropolitan service district shall assist the large school district to identify school sites required by the school facility planning process described in ORS 195.110. A need for a public school is a specific type of identified land need under ORS 197.298 (3).

(5) Three years after completing its most recent demonstration of sufficient buildable lands under ORS 197.296, a metropolitan service district may, on a single occasion, revise the determination and analysis required as part of the demonstration for the purpose of considering an amendment to the metropolitan service district’s urban growth boundary, provided:

(a) The metropolitan service district has entered into an intergovernmental agreement and has designated rural reserves and urban reserves under ORS 195.141 and 195.145 with each county located within the district;

(b) The commission has acknowledged the rural reserve and urban reserve designations described in paragraph (a) of this subsection;

(c) One or more cities within the metropolitan service district have proposed a development that would require expansion of the urban growth boundary;

(d) The city or cities proposing the development have provided evidence to the metropolitan service district that the proposed development would provide additional needed housing to the needed housing included in the most recent determination and analysis;

(e) The location chosen for the proposed development is adjacent to the city proposing the development; and

(f) The location chosen for the proposed development is located within an area designated and acknowledged as an urban reserve.

(6)(a) If a metropolitan service district, after revising its most recent determination and analysis pursuant to subsection (5) of this section, concludes that an expansion of its urban growth boundary is warranted, the metropolitan service district may take action to expand its urban growth boundary in one or more locations to accommodate the proposed development, provided the urban growth boundary expansion does not exceed a total of 1,000 acres.

(b) A metropolitan service district that expands its urban growth boundary under this subsection:

(A) Must adopt the urban growth boundary expansion not more than four years after completing its most recent demonstration of sufficient buildable lands under ORS 197.296; and

(B) Is exempt from the boundary location requirements described in the statewide land use planning goals relating to urbanization. [1997 c.763 §2; 2001 c.908 §2; 2005 c.590 §1; 2007 c.579 §2; 2014 c.92 §5; 2017 c.199 §1; 2019 c.640 §9; 2021 c.164 §4]

197.300 [1973 c.80 §51; 1977 c.664 §22; repealed by 1979 c.772 §26]

197.301 Metro report of performance measures. (1) A metropolitan service district organized under ORS chapter 268 shall compile and report to the Department of Land Conservation and Development on performance measures as described in this section at least once every two years. The information shall be reported in a manner prescribed by the department.

(2) Performance measures subject to subsection (1) of this section shall be adopted by a metropolitan service district and shall include but are not limited to measures that analyze the following:

(a) The rate of conversion of vacant land to improved land;

(b) The density and price ranges of residential development, including both single family and multifamily residential units;

(c) The level of job creation within individual cities and the urban areas of a county inside the metropolitan service district;

(d) The number of residential units added to small sites assumed to be developed in the metropolitan service district’s inventory of available lands but which can be further developed, and the conversion of existing spaces into more compact units with or without the demolition of existing buildings;

(e) The amount of environmentally sensitive land that is protected and the amount of environmentally sensitive land that is developed;

(f) The sales price of vacant land;

(g) Residential vacancy rates;

(h) Public access to open spaces; and

(i) Transportation measures including mobility, accessibility and air quality indicators. [1997 c.763 §3]

197.302 Metro determination of buildable land supply; corrective action; enforcement. (1) After gathering and compiling information on the performance measures as described in ORS 197.301 but prior to submitting the information to the Department of Land Conservation and Development, a metropolitan service district shall determine if actions taken under ORS 197.296 (6) have established the buildable land supply and housing densities necessary to accommodate estimated housing needs determined under ORS 197.296 (3). If the metropolitan service district determines that the actions undertaken will not accommodate estimated need, the district shall develop a corrective action plan, including a schedule for implementation. The district shall submit the plan to the department along with the report on performance measures required under ORS 197.301. Corrective action under this section may include amendment of the urban growth boundary, comprehensive plan, regional framework plan, functional plan or land use regulations as described in ORS 197.296.

(2) Within two years of submitting a corrective action plan to the department, the metropolitan service district shall demonstrate by reference to the performance measures described in ORS 197.301 that implementation of the plan has resulted in the buildable land supply and housing density within the urban growth boundary necessary to accommodate the estimated housing needs for each housing type as determined under ORS 197.296 (3).

(3) The failure of the metropolitan service district to demonstrate the buildable land supply and housing density necessary to accommodate housing needs as required under this section and ORS 197.296 may be the basis for initiation of enforcement action pursuant to ORS 197.319 to 197.335. [1997 c.763 §4; 2001 c.908 §3]

Note: Sections 2 (2) and 4, chapter 92, Oregon Laws 2014, provide:

Sec. 2. (2) Section 4 of this 2014 Act is added to and made a part of ORS 197.295 to 197.314 [series became 197.286 to 197.314]. [2014 c.92 §2(2)]

Sec. 4. Metro urban growth boundary designation. For the purpose of land use planning in Oregon, the Legislative Assembly designates the urban growth boundary designated in Metro Ordinance No. 11-1264B, adopted October 20, 2011, as the acknowledged urban growth boundary of Metro, subject to the conditions of approval in the ordinance, except that:

(1) The real property in Area 7C on Metro’s map denominated as the “Urban and Rural Reserves in Washington County, Attachment A to Staff Report for Resolution No. 11-4245 (03/17/11 DRAFT),” is included within the acknowledged urban growth boundary.

(2) The real property in Area 7D on Metro’s map denominated as the “Urban and Rural Reserves in Washington County, Attachment A to Staff Report for Resolution No. 11-4245 (03/17/11 DRAFT),” is included within the acknowledged urban growth boundary.

(3) The real property in Area 7E on Metro’s map denominated as the “Urban and Rural Reserves in Washington County, Attachment A to Staff Report for Resolution No. 11-4245 (03/17/11 DRAFT),” is included within the acknowledged urban growth boundary. [2014 c.92 §4]

197.303 “Needed housing” defined. (1) As used in ORS 197.286 to 197.314, “needed housing” means all housing on land zoned for residential use or mixed residential and commercial use that is determined to meet the need shown for housing within an urban growth boundary at price ranges and rent levels that are affordable to households within the county with a variety of incomes, including but not limited to households with low incomes, very low incomes and extremely low incomes, as those terms are defined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development under 42 U.S.C. 1437a. “Needed housing” includes the following housing types:

(a) Attached and detached single-family housing and multiple family housing for both owner and renter occupancy;

(b) Government assisted housing;

(d) Manufactured homes on individual lots planned and zoned for single-family residential use that are in addition to lots within designated manufactured dwelling subdivisions; and

(e) Housing for farmworkers.

(2) For the purpose of estimating housing needs, as described in ORS 197.296 (3)(b), a local government shall use the population projections prescribed by ORS 195.033 or 195.036 and shall consider and adopt findings related to changes in each of the following factors since the last review under ORS 197.296 (2)(a)(B) and the projected future changes in these factors over a 20-year planning period:

(a) Household sizes;

(b) Household demographics;

(d) Vacancy rates; and

(e) Housing costs.

(3) A local government shall make the estimate described in subsection (2) of this section using a shorter time period than since the last review under ORS 197.296 (2)(a)(B) if the local government finds that the shorter time period will provide more accurate and reliable data related to housing need. The shorter time period may not be less than three years.

(4) A local government shall use data from a wider geographic area or use a time period longer than the time period described in subsection (2) of this section if the analysis of a wider geographic area or the use of a longer time period will provide more accurate, complete and reliable data relating to trends affecting housing need than an analysis performed pursuant to subsection (2) of this section. The local government must clearly describe the geographic area, time frame and source of data used in an estimate performed under this subsection.

(5) Subsection (1)(a) and (d) of this section does not apply to:

(a) A city with a population of less than 2,500.

(b) A county with a population of less than 15,000.

(6) A local government may take an exception under ORS 197.732 to the definition of “needed housing” in subsection (1) of this section in the same manner that an exception may be taken under the goals. [1981 c.884 §6; 1983 c.795 §2; 1989 c.380 §1; 2011 c.354 §2; 2017 c.745 §4; 2019 c.639 §6; 2019 c.640 §10a]

197.304 Lane County accommodation of needed housing. (1) Notwithstanding an intergovernmental agreement pursuant to ORS 190.003 to 190.130 or acknowledged comprehensive plan provisions to the contrary, a city within Lane County that has a population of 50,000 or more within its boundaries shall meet its obligation under ORS 197.286 to 197.314 separately from any other city within Lane County. The city shall, separately from any other city:

(a) Establish an urban growth boundary, consistent with the jurisdictional area of responsibility specified in the acknowledged comprehensive plan; and

(b) Demonstrate, as required by ORS 197.296, that its comprehensive plan provides sufficient buildable lands within an urban growth boundary established pursuant to statewide planning goals to accommodate estimated housing needs for 20 years.

(2) Except as provided in subsection (1) of this section, this section does not alter or affect an intergovernmental agreement pursuant to ORS 190.003 to 190.130 or acknowledged comprehensive plan provisions adopted by Lane County or local governments in Lane County. [2007 c.650 §2]

197.305 [1973 c.80 §52; 1977 c.664 §23; repealed by 1979 c.772 §26]

197.307 Needed housing policy; clear and objective standards for housing; siting of manufactured dwellings. (1) The availability of affordable, decent, safe and sanitary housing opportunities for persons of lower, middle and fixed income, including housing for farmworkers, is a matter of statewide concern.

(2) Many persons of lower, middle and fixed income depend on government assisted housing as a source of affordable, decent, safe and sanitary housing.

(3) When a need has been shown for housing within an urban growth boundary at particular price ranges and rent levels, needed housing shall be permitted in one or more zoning districts or in zones described by some comprehensive plans as overlay zones with sufficient buildable land to satisfy that need.

(4) Except as provided in subsection (6) of this section, a local government may adopt and apply only clear and objective standards, conditions and procedures regulating the development of housing, including needed housing. The standards, conditions and procedures:

(a) May include, but are not limited to, one or more provisions regulating the density or height of a development.

(b) May not have the effect, either in themselves or cumulatively, of discouraging needed housing through unreasonable cost or delay.

(5) The provisions of subsection (4) of this section do not apply to:

(a) An application or permit for residential development in an area identified in a formally adopted central city plan, or a regional center as defined by Metro, in a city with a population of 500,000 or more.

(b) An application or permit for residential development in historic areas designated for protection under a land use planning goal protecting historic areas.

(6) In addition to an approval process for needed housing based on clear and objective standards, conditions and procedures as provided in subsection (4) of this section, a local government may adopt and apply an alternative approval process for applications and permits for residential development based on approval criteria regulating, in whole or in part, appearance or aesthetics that are not clear and objective if:

(a) The applicant retains the option of proceeding under the approval process that meets the requirements of subsection (4) of this section;

(b) The approval criteria for the alternative approval process comply with applicable statewide land use planning goals and rules; and

(c) The approval criteria for the alternative approval process authorize a density at or above the density level authorized in the zone under the approval process provided in subsection (4) of this section.

(7) Subject to subsection (4) of this section, this section does not infringe on a local government’s prerogative to:

(a) Set approval standards under which a particular housing type is permitted outright;

(b) Impose special conditions upon approval of a specific development proposal; or

(8) In accordance with subsection (4) of this section and ORS 197.314, a jurisdiction may adopt any or all of the following placement standards, or any less restrictive standard, for the approval of manufactured homes located outside mobile home parks:

(a) The manufactured home shall be multisectional and enclose a space of not less than 1,000 square feet.

(b) The manufactured home shall be placed on an excavated and back-filled foundation and enclosed at the perimeter such that the manufactured home is located not more than 12 inches above grade.

(c) The manufactured home shall have a pitched roof, except that no standard shall require a slope of greater than a nominal three feet in height for each 12 feet in width.

(d) The manufactured home shall have exterior siding and roofing which in color, material and appearance is similar to the exterior siding and roofing material commonly used on residential dwellings within the community or which is comparable to the predominant materials used on surrounding dwellings as determined by the local permit approval authority.

(e) The manufactured home shall be certified by the manufacturer to have an exterior thermal envelope meeting performance standards which reduce levels equivalent to the performance standards required of single-family dwellings constructed under the Low-Rise Residential Dwelling Code as defined in ORS 455.010.

(f) The manufactured home shall have a garage or carport constructed of like materials. A jurisdiction may require an attached or detached garage in lieu of a carport where such is consistent with the predominant construction of immediately surrounding dwellings.

(g) In addition to the provisions in paragraphs (a) to (f) of this subsection, a city or county may subject a manufactured home and the lot upon which it is sited to any development standard, architectural requirement and minimum size requirement to which a conventional single-family residential dwelling on the same lot would be subject. [1981 c.884 §5; 1983 c.795 §3; 1989 c.380 §2; 1989 c.964 §6; 1993 c.184 §3; 1997 c.733 §2; 1999 c.357 §1; 2001 c.613 §2; 2011 c.354 §3; 2017 c.745 §5; 2019 c.401 §7]

Note: The amendments to 197.307 by section 14, chapter 401, Oregon Laws 2019, become operative January 2, 2026. See section 18, chapter 401, Oregon Laws 2019, as amended by section 1c, chapter 422, Oregon Laws 2019. The text that is operative on and after January 2, 2026, is set forth for the user’s convenience.

197.307. (1) The availability of affordable, decent, safe and sanitary housing opportunities for persons of lower, middle and fixed income, including housing for farmworkers, is a matter of statewide concern.