Beaverton ADU Regulations & Building Guide

Beaverton is a vibrant community located in Oregon with a population of approximately 97,554. As demand for housing continues to grow, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have become an increasingly popular solution for homeowners looking to add living space, generate rental income, or house family members.

GatherADU provides comprehensive ADU services to Beaverton residents, including custom design, permit assistance, and full construction management. Our team understands local building codes and zoning regulations to ensure your project proceeds smoothly.

Oregon State ADU Laws

Oregon has embraced ADU-friendly legislation to address housing needs. State law requires cities to allow ADUs on single-family residential lots.

Key Oregon ADU Regulations:

• Size Limits: Typically up to 800-900 sq ft, depending on local jurisdiction.
• Parking: Many Oregon cities have eliminated parking requirements for ADUs.
• Owner Occupancy: Oregon law limits owner-occupancy requirements.
• Approval Timeline: Streamlined permitting processes in most jurisdictions.

Beaverton Local Requirements

GatherADU works with Beaverton homeowners to navigate local building codes and zoning requirements specific to your property and neighborhood.

California law (AB 68, AB 881, SB 9, and subsequent legislation) guarantees your right to build ADUs. Cities cannot:

• Require owner-occupancy for ADUs permitted after 2020
• Require additional parking for ADUs near transit
• Charge impact fees for ADUs under 750 sq ft
• Deny ADUs that meet state minimum standards
• Impose lot coverage limits that prevent a 800 sq ft ADU

If you believe your ADU application is being unfairly denied, California HCD can intervene on your behalf.

Oregon ADU Legislation Overview

Oregon has been at the forefront of ADU-friendly legislation, recognizing ADUs as an important housing solution.

Key Oregon ADU Laws:

• HB 2001 (2019): Required cities to allow ADUs on all single-family residential lots.
• SB 458 (2021): Allowed lot splits for homes with ADUs.

Oregon ADU Benefits:

• Streamlined approval process
• Limited parking requirements
• Flexible rental options

Beaverton, Oregon, with a population of approximately 97,554 residents, is a city located in Washington County, part of the Portland metropolitan area. Known for its family-friendly environment, strong community spirit, and proximity to Portland, Beaverton has become an attractive place for residents seeking a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences. The city’s ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) regulations aim to address the growing housing needs while maintaining the city's residential character.

Geography and History

Beaverton is situated in the Tualatin Valley, surrounded by rolling hills and lush landscapes. Originally a rural farming community, Beaverton has evolved into a thriving suburban city with a strong emphasis on community and development. The city’s history is marked by its transformation from a small agricultural town to a bustling suburban center.

Local Economy

Beaverton’s economy is diverse, with several key sectors contributing to its growth:

• Technology: The city is part of the Silicon Forest, a region known for its high-tech industry, including major tech companies and startups.
• Retail and Services: Beaverton features a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and service providers, contributing to the local economy.
• Education: Several educational institutions, including public schools and private schools, play a significant role in the community.
• Healthcare: The presence of healthcare facilities and medical centers supports the city’s residents’ health and well-being.

Popular Neighborhoods

Beaverton offers a range of neighborhoods, each with its own appeal:

• Downtown Beaverton: Known for its revitalization efforts, this area features shops, dining options, and cultural amenities.
• Aloha: A residential area with a mix of housing types, parks, and community services, offering a suburban feel with easy access to local amenities.
• South Beaverton: Features well-established neighborhoods and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and access to parks and schools.
• North Beaverton: An area with a mix of residential and commercial properties, providing a balance of suburban and urban experiences.

Real Estate Market

Beaverton’s real estate market is diverse, with options ranging from charming older homes to new developments. The city’s popularity, combined with its proximity to Portland, has led to a strong demand for housing, including ADUs. The market supports various housing types to meet different needs and preferences.

ADU Regulations in Beaverton

Beaverton has established regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to support residential growth and address housing needs:

• Zoning: ADUs are allowed in residential zones and certain mixed-use areas, with guidelines to ensure compatibility with existing properties.
• Types of ADUs: Both attached and detached ADUs are permitted, including conversions of existing structures and Junior ADUs (JADUs).
• Size Limits:
  • Detached ADUs: Up to 800 sqft.
  • Attached ADUs: Up to 50% of the primary dwelling’s living area or 800 sqft, whichever is less.
  • JADUs: Up to 500 sqft.
• Height Restrictions: Detached ADUs are generally limited to a height of 16 feet, though exceptions may apply based on design and location.
• Parking: Additional parking requirements are generally minimal, especially if ADUs are situated near public transit or within walkable neighborhoods.
• Owner Occupancy: Owner-occupancy is not required for newly constructed ADUs, allowing for rental opportunities and flexibility.
• Approval Process: ADUs that meet city standards benefit from a streamlined approval process, including ministerial review for eligible projects.
• Multiple ADUs: In multi-family zones, additional ADUs may be permitted, subject to zoning regulations and design criteria.
• Impact Fees: Impact fees for ADUs are reduced to encourage development and support affordable housing options.
• Design Standards: ADUs must be designed to complement the primary residence and neighborhood character, ensuring aesthetic harmony and functionality.

These regulations are intended to enhance housing options in Beaverton while maintaining the city’s suburban charm and quality of life.

Cultural Landmarks and Unique Aspects

Beaverton is known for several distinctive features:

• Proximity to Portland: Beaverton’s location offers easy access to the cultural and economic amenities of Portland while providing a more suburban lifestyle.
• Technology Hub: As part of the Silicon Forest, Beaverton benefits from its association with the high-tech industry and innovation.
• Community Events: The city hosts various community events and festivals, fostering a strong sense of local culture and engagement.
• Parks and Recreation: Beaverton boasts numerous parks and recreational facilities, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle for its residents.

Beaverton’s ADU regulations reflect the city’s commitment to accommodating growth and addressing housing needs while preserving its suburban character. With its emphasis on community, technology, and quality of life, Beaverton provides an attractive environment for residents and visitors. The city’s progressive ADU policies aim to support diverse housing options and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

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