County explores potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in rural areas

Comment on Issue Paper No. 2025-1: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in The Rural Area to let us know your thoughts about ADUs on rural lands.

Oregon counties can now allow ADUs on rural lands not intended for farm or forest use because of recent state law changes. ADUs are small, separate units inside an existing home or located on the same lot as an existing home.

We regularly receive requests for ADUs in the rural area. While ADUs have long been allowed in the Washington County’s urban area, they have not been allowed in the rural area.

Our issue paper explores the potential of allowing ADUs in rural unincorporated Washington County. The issue paper:

• Explains new state allowances for rural ADUs
• Identifies where rural ADUs could be allowed
• Examines possible regulations and potential policy implications

Please submit comments by Aug. 22 via:

• Email
• Phone 503-846-3519, or
• U.S. mail to Washington County Department of Land Use & Transportation, Long Range Planning,
  155 N. First Ave., Suite 350, MS14, Hillsboro, OR 97124