Oregon legislators took a historic leap toward greener, fairer, less expensive cities Sunday by passing the first law of its kind in the United States or Canada: A state-level legalization of so-called “missing middle” housing. — Sightline Institute
In a rare show of bipartisan cooperation, both of Oregon's legislative houses have voted to eliminate single-family zoning across the sate, legalizing so-called "missing middle" housing, including duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and row houses.
If signed into law next month by Oregon governor Kate Brown, the bill will allow up to two housing units on all residential lots located within cities that have at least 10,000 residents. For cities of 25,000 residents and up, the bill allows up to four units per lot, including row houses and cottage clusters.
Missing middle housing was largely common in American cities prior to the invention of zoning codes in the early 20th century. In the century since, a pervasive focus on single-family residential areas, coupled with the long-term effects of racial segregation and redlining, has limited housing options for Americans while also eroding a key economic stepping stone for immigrants, first-time homeowners, retirees, and other groups. As a nationwide housing affordability crisis has taken hold, states and municipalities have moved to re-legalize a diverse array of residential housing types to help reinstitute the country's rich housing traditions.
The Oregon law, known as House Bill 2001, is the first state-level act legalizing missing middle housing in the country.
Under the bill, local municipalities will continue to have a say over building regulations that consider building size, design, and inclusionary zoning requirements. If signed into law, the bill's provisions would go into effect starting in 2020.
3 Comments
So thrilled this bill passed. It almost didn't. The whole past weekend was a nail-biter, what with the Republicans abdicating their responsibility and a June 30th deadline to adjourn.
This will be big for housing affordability going forward.
that’s good news! now we are getting somewhere. I hope this catches on in other states.
Good news.
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