Bend ADU Regulations & Building Guide

Bend is a vibrant community located in Oregon with a population of approximately 99,442. 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 Bend 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.

Bend Local Requirements

GatherADU works with Bend 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

Bend, Oregon, is a city located in Deschutes County with a population of approximately 99,442 residents. Known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant downtown area, Bend has become a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. The city’s regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are designed to address housing needs and support sustainable growth in this dynamic community.

Geography and History

Bend is situated in central Oregon, nestled along the Deschutes River and surrounded by picturesque landscapes including the Cascade Mountains and high desert terrain. Established in the early 1900s, Bend has evolved from a small lumber town into a thriving city with a strong emphasis on outdoor recreation and local culture.

Local Economy

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

• Tourism: The city’s outdoor attractions, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, drive significant tourism revenue.
• Technology: Bend has a growing tech sector, with numerous startups and tech companies establishing a presence in the area.
• Retail and Services: The downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and service providers catering to residents and tourists.
• Healthcare: Several medical facilities and healthcare providers serve the community, enhancing the city’s quality of life.

Popular Neighborhoods

Bend offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character:

• Downtown Bend: Known for its vibrant arts scene, historic buildings, and numerous dining options. It serves as the cultural and commercial hub of the city.
• Old Farm District: A residential area featuring historic homes and a strong sense of community. It offers a mix of older and newer properties.
• Westside: A popular residential area with easy access to outdoor activities, including nearby parks and trails.
• Northwest Crossing: A modern neighborhood with a focus on sustainability and community, featuring new homes and local businesses.

Real Estate Market

Bend’s real estate market is characterized by its diversity, offering options from charming historic homes to new constructions. The city’s popularity as a destination has led to increased demand for housing, including innovative solutions like ADUs. The market supports a range of housing types to accommodate various needs.

ADU Regulations in Bend

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

• Zoning: ADUs are permitted in residential zones and specific mixed-use areas, with guidelines to ensure compatibility with existing properties.
• Types of ADUs: Both attached and detached ADUs are allowed, 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, with some flexibility based on design and location.
• Parking: Additional parking requirements are minimal, particularly if ADUs are located near public transit or within walkable neighborhoods.
• Owner Occupancy: Owner-occupancy is not required for newly constructed ADUs, allowing for rental opportunities.
• 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 Bend while preserving the city’s unique character and quality of life.

Cultural Landmarks and Unique Aspects

Bend is renowned for several distinctive features:

• Outdoor Recreation: The city offers world-class outdoor activities, including skiing at Mt. Bachelor, hiking in the Cascade Mountains, and mountain biking on local trails.
• Craft Brewing: Bend is known for its vibrant craft beer scene, with numerous breweries and pubs contributing to its local culture.
• Art and Culture: The city hosts various cultural events and festivals, including the Bend Film Festival and the First Friday Art Walk.
• Sustainability: Bend emphasizes sustainable living and environmental stewardship, reflected in its community planning and local initiatives.

Bend’s ADU regulations reflect the city’s commitment to accommodating growth and addressing housing needs while preserving its scenic charm and vibrant community. With its emphasis on outdoor recreation, sustainability, and local culture, Bend provides a unique environment for both 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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