Gresham ADU Regulations & Building Guide

Gresham is a vibrant community located in Oregon with a population of approximately 113,525. 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 Gresham 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.

Gresham Local Requirements

GatherADU works with Gresham 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

Gresham, Oregon, is a city located in Multnomah County, part of the Portland metropolitan area. Known for its scenic beauty, suburban charm, and close-knit community, Gresham has a population of approximately 113,525 residents. The city offers a blend of urban convenience and natural surroundings, making it a desirable location for many families and individuals.

Geography and History

Gresham is situated about 15 miles east of Portland, with easy access to both urban amenities and natural landscapes. The city was incorporated in 1905 and has grown from a small agricultural town into a significant suburban community. Its location along the base of the Cascade Range and proximity to the Columbia River add to its appeal.

Local Economy

Gresham’s economy is diverse, with key sectors including:

• Retail and Services: Includes shopping centers, local businesses, and a variety of service providers.
• Healthcare: Features facilities such as Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center.
• Education: Home to schools within the Gresham-Barlow School District and several higher education institutions.
• Manufacturing and Industry: Includes various industrial and distribution centers contributing to local employment.
• Recreation and Tourism: Offers parks, recreational facilities, and access to outdoor activities in nearby natural areas.

Popular Neighborhoods

Gresham offers several neighborhoods, each with unique characteristics:

• Downtown Gresham: Known for its historic charm, local shops, and community events.
• Rockwood: A diverse area with a mix of residential and commercial developments.
• Woodland Park: Features suburban homes and family-friendly amenities.
• Powell Valley: Offers a blend of rural and suburban living with access to natural landscapes.
• Pleasant Valley: A residential area with newer homes and proximity to local services.

Real Estate Market

Gresham’s real estate market includes a variety of single-family homes, townhouses, and multi-family properties. The market has seen growth due to the city’s appeal as a more affordable alternative to Portland and its surrounding areas. New construction projects and residential developments are common as the city continues to expand.

ADU Regulations in Gresham

Gresham’s ADU regulations are designed to comply with Oregon state laws while accommodating local preferences and needs.

• Zoning: ADUs are permitted in residential zones, including single-family and multi-family districts. Some mixed-use zones may also allow ADUs.
• Types of ADUs: Both attached and detached ADUs are allowed, as well as Internal ADUs (IADUs) and Detached ADUs (DADUs).
• Size Limits:
  • Detached ADUs: Up to 800 sqft for standard lots; up to 1,000 sqft on larger lots.
  • Attached ADUs: Up to 50% of the primary dwelling’s living area or 800 sqft, whichever is less.
  • IADUs: Integrated into the primary dwelling, with no specific size limit if part of the overall home.
• Height Restrictions: Detached ADUs are generally limited to 18 feet in height, though exceptions may be made based on design and site-specific conditions.
• Parking: Typically, one additional parking space is required for an ADU. Parking requirements may be waived if the ADU is located near public transit or if the primary residence is within an existing development with adequate parking.
• Owner Occupancy: There is no owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs in Gresham, allowing flexibility in rental options.
• Approval Process: ADUs meeting certain criteria can benefit from a streamlined approval process, facilitating quicker permitting and construction.
• Multiple ADUs: In multi-family properties, up to two detached ADUs are allowed, or ADUs for 25% of the existing units within the structure, whichever is greater.
• Impact Fees: Impact fees for ADUs are typically reduced to encourage development and affordability, particularly for smaller units.
• Design Standards: ADUs must be designed to be compatible with the primary residence and neighborhood character, including considerations for architectural style and aesthetics.

These regulations are designed to support Gresham’s housing needs while maintaining its suburban charm and enhancing community development.

Cultural Landmarks and Unique Aspects

Gresham is known for several unique aspects and cultural landmarks:

• Gresham History Museum: Showcases local history and heritage through exhibits and artifacts.
• Powell Butte Nature Park: Offers trails and outdoor activities with scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Gresham’s Historic Downtown: Features preserved historic buildings and local shops, reflecting the city’s heritage.
• Blue Lake Regional Park: Provides recreational opportunities including a lake for swimming, picnicking, and hiking trails.
• Gresham Art Committee: Promotes local arts through various events and public art projects.

Gresham’s ADU regulations are designed to address the city’s housing needs while preserving its suburban character and supporting community growth. With its diverse economy, cultural landmarks, and range of neighborhoods, Gresham offers a desirable living environment in the Portland metropolitan area. The city’s approach to ADU development reflects its commitment to providing flexible and affordable housing solutions while enhancing the overall quality of life for its residents.

‍