Climate Friendly and Equitable Communities: The Biggest Change to Oregon Land Use Planning

On March 10, 2020, Governor Kate Brown issued Executive Order 20-04, directing state agencies to reduce climate pollution. In response, the Land Conservation and Development Commission (Commission) is undertaking the most extensive revision of Oregon’s land-use laws in decades to encourage denser development and to reduce vehicle miles traveled.

The draft rules, which will be reviewed by the Commission on March 31 and likely approved in May, represent a major shift in how communities plan for housing and transportation. Among other requirements, cities will be required to designate and zone “Climate Friendly Areas” (dense, walkable areas) sufficient to account for 30% of total needed housing. The rulemaking is focused on Oregon's eight urban areas with populations of over 50,000 people (Albany, Bend, Corvallis, Eugene/Springfield, Grants Pass, Medford/Ashland, Portland Metro, Salem/Keizer).

If you live or work in one of these communities these rules will reshape the future of your community for you and your clients. Tune in to this webinar to learn more.