Scenario

Scenarios

The following is a summary of the some of the key concepts in this chapter, followed by possible situations with which local officials, planning commissioners and others may be asked to deal.

What would you do? Imagine yourself in a real-life circumstance in which you are a part of the land use process. Once you have thought about what you would do, you can click on the "Response" section to see a possible response. Although the response should be accurate and help to reinforce chapter content it may not be the only appropriate response that could be provided.

Please refer to the full chapter for reference information and should you have any questions. Click here for a list of field representatives and Department of Land Conservation and Development staff.

Key Concepts

Cities and counties must jointly agree on an urban growth boundary that separates urban development from rural and natural resource areas.
A city, through its comprehensive plan, must include an adequate supply of land for housing, economic growth and livability, within its urban growth boundary.
Zoning standards and conditions for housing must be “clear and objective” and consistent with plan policies so that they don’t deny or delay development that is consistent with the plan.
County plans and regulations should protect the agricultural and forest land base.

You are a planning commissioner for a city that is updating its comprehensive plan and considering changes to the urban growth boundary. What key information would you need to make an informed decision?

Possible Response...

The revised boundary must include sufficient land to support growth for the next 20 years. You will need coordinated population projections about the rate and type of growth you can expect; housing densities now and opportunities to increase them; natural resource constraints; current and projected capacity of public facilities and services; and the type and number of housing and economic development opportunities you realistically desire and expect, including consideration of strategies such as infill and redevelopment.

You are an elected county official. A local farmer asks you about the requirements to subdivide his property to sell parcels for residential development. Based on your understanding of agricultural land protection requirements, what do you say?

Possible Response...

Oregon’s agricultural lands goal requires counties to apply zoning to agricultural lands that strictly limits the development of non-farm uses, including residences not associated with commercial farming. This agricultural zoning also includes large acreage minimum lot sizes to help retain farm land in tracts large enough for commercial farming. These requirements are intended to help protect the state’s farming industry, and limit non-farm related uses that are often incompatible with routine farming practices such as manure spreading or aerial pesticide spraying. For these reasons, it may not be possible to divide agricultural land for this purpose.

Your neighbor tells you she is considering buying a house near a small stream. She is also considering making small additions to the structure. What advice would you give her about land use provisions that may apply?

Possible Response...

As the house is near a stream, it may be subject to flooding, riparian setbacks, or other zoning requirements. Advise her to check with the local planning department to find out whether the property is in a flood hazard zone, subject to riparian setbacks, or other regulations that may affect her decision making. If so, they can advise her about what further steps may be needed and how to proceed.