Bill > SB974

This bill aims to streamline and expedite the land use application process for residential development within urban growth boundaries by establishing clear timelines and procedures. The bill creates new requirements for local governments when reviewing final engineering plans, mandating that they confirm the completeness of an application within 30 days and complete the final review of engineering plans within 120 days. If a local government fails to meet these deadlines, an applicant may file a petition for a writ of mandamus. The bill also introduces new provisions for land use decisions related to residential development, including specific notice requirements, limitations on design standards, and simplified review processes. For residential development applications within urban growth boundaries, local governments must provide written notice to neighboring property owners, allow a 14-day comment period, and make initial decisions without a hearing. Additionally, the bill restricts local governments from applying most residential design standards to developments of 20 or more residential units, with exceptions for safety, health, and certain environmental considerations. The provisions are designed to reduce bureaucratic delays and facilitate housing development, with the new rules becoming operative on July 1, 2026, and set to expire on January 2, 2033.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB974