Bill > HB3906

This bill amends Oregon state law to allow entities with the power of eminent domain (called "condemners") to apply for land use permits and authorizations for properties they might potentially acquire, even if they have not yet actually purchased or condemned the land. Specifically, the bill modifies two sections of Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS 215.416 for county land use applications and ORS 227.175 for city land use applications) to explicitly state that a condemner may apply for a land use permit "as if the condemner owned the land" for any property subject to its eminent domain power, regardless of whether that power has been exercised. This change essentially grants potential land acquirers the same rights to seek land use approvals as current property owners, which could help entities like utilities, transportation agencies, or other public infrastructure organizations plan and prepare for potential future land acquisitions by understanding potential land use restrictions or opportunities in advance. The bill does not change other existing requirements for land use applications, such as compliance with comprehensive plans, zoning regulations, and public notice procedures.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3906