Washington County ordinance supports more housing ownership options

A-Engrossed Ordinance No. 890, amending the Community Development Code (CDC) to support middle housing development, was unanimously approved by the Washington County Board of Commissioners during its regular Feb. 7 meeting.

This ordinance implements the requirements of 2021 Oregon Senate Bill (SB) 458 relating to middle housing land divisions and makes minor amendments related generally to middle housing.

Middle housing in residential neighborhoods can increase housing choices for people at different life stages, and with diverse wants, needs and incomes. The ordinance allows expedited middle housing land divisions for all middle housing types – duplexes, triplexes, cottage clusters and townhouses – expanding potential for more people to own a home on its own lot.