Eugene, Oregon, has taken a more cautious approach to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) compared to some other cities in the state. Here is an analysis of Eugene ADU regulations and recent developments:

ADU Friendly Regulations in Eugene

Eugene's ADU regulations are more restrictive than many other cities in Oregon:

• ADUs are allowed in all neighborhoods, but with significant restrictions [2].

• The maximum size for ADUs is 800 square feet or 10% of the lot area, whichever is smaller [2].

• Unlike some other cities, Eugene does not require additional parking for ADUs [2].

• Owner occupancy is not required for either the primary residence or the ADU[2].

Lot Size And Zoning Restrictions

Eugene has maintained some barriers to ADU development:

• There used to be minimum lot size requirements that prevented nearly 5,000 homeowners from building ADUs [3].

• Some special zones, such as the Chambers and Jefferson Westside Special Area Zones, have additional restrictions on ADUs [1].

Recent Developments

Eugene has made some progress in regulating ADUs:

• In January 2020, the City Council passed an updated ADU law that removed some barriers, particularly those deemed illegal by the Land Use Board of Appeals or the state legislature [3].

• However, the city retained many other restrictions, including the minimum lot size in some areas [3].

Eugene Pre-Approved ADU Program

To encourage the development of ADUs, Eugene established a Pre-Approved Accessory Dwelling Unit Program:

• This program provides pre-approved building plans for ADUs [2].

• It aims to expedite the building permit process and reduce pre-construction fees [2].

• The program offers a variety of styles, sizes and special features, including energy-efficient and barrier-free units [2].

System Development Fees

Eugene has taken steps to reduce the cost of developing ADUs:

• System Development Charges (SDCs) can be funded through the city for up to 10 years [2].

• Beginning in fiscal year 2024, property owners should budget approximately $7,000 for SDCs, although this is subject to change [2].

Ongoing Challenges

Despite some progress, Eugene continues to face challenges with ADU adoption:

• The city's most recent attempt to update ADU regulations is being challenged before the Land Use Board of Appeals [3].

• There are concerns that Eugene is not fully complying with state laws regarding ADUs, particularly SB 1051 [1][3].

• The city has held work sessions and public hearings to discuss changes to ADU regulations [3].

• There has been significant public interest, with many residents advocating for simpler ADU development [3].

While Eugene has made some progress in facilitating ADU development, it is still more restrictive than many other cities in Oregon. Ongoing debates and appeals indicate that ADU regulations in Eugene will likely continue to evolve as the city balances housing needs with neighborhood concerns.

Citations:

[1] http://www.wecaneugene.org/eugene-sdu-code

[2] https://www.eugene-or.gov/4707/Pre-Approved-Accessory-Dwelling-Unit-Pro

[3] http://www.wecaneugene.org/secondary-dwelling-in-eugene

[4] https://www.lanecounty.org/government/county_departments/public_works/land_management_division/land_use_planning___zoning/accessory_dwelling_units

[5] https://www.gatheradu.com/adu-info/springfield-or

[6] https://truebuilthome.com/adu-planning-in-oregon/

[7] https://www.eugene-or.gov/DocumentCenter/View/64181/Accessory-Dwelling

[8] https://cdnsm5-hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_3585797/File/Government/County%20Departments/Public%20Works/Land%20Management%20Division/Land%20Use%20Planning%20Zoning/Applications%20and%20Handouts/Applications/Zoning%20Determination_ADU.pdf

Disclaimer: The information provided in this briefing is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consulting the official Municipal Code or seeking guidance from your local Community and Economic Development Department.