Senate Bill 75 aligns ADU standards with repeal of wildfire hazard map

In a recent meeting of the Oregon House Committee on Climate, Energy, and Environment, lawmakers discussed significant changes regarding wildfire hazard regulations and their implications for residential development. A key focus was on the management of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in areas at risk of wildfires, particularly in Deschutes County.

Senator Golden highlighted the challenges faced while awaiting the completion of a wildfire hazard map, which was intended to guide building codes and safety standards for new constructions in high-risk areas. The original Senate Bill 762 aimed to establish requirements for properties in these zones, but delays in the map's release created uncertainty for local governments and developers.

To address this, lawmakers passed a temporary measure that mandates all new ADUs in rural residential lots to adhere to higher fire-resistant building standards until the wildfire map is finalized. This decision reflects a proactive approach to mitigate wildfire risks, ensuring that all new constructions are built with safety in mind.

However, the situation evolved with the introduction of Senate Bill 83, which proposes the complete repeal of the wildfire hazard map. This has led to confusion among stakeholders, as the previous legislation contained provisions that depended on the existence of the map. To clarify the legislative intent, an amendment was introduced to Senate Bill 75, aligning it with the repeal of the map and removing any references that could mislead about future building requirements.

The committee's discussions underscored the importance of clear regulations for ADUs in wildfire-prone areas, emphasizing community safety while navigating the complexities of legislative changes. As the state moves forward, residents can expect a more streamlined process for permitting ADUs, albeit with heightened safety standards in place until further decisions are made regarding wildfire risk assessments.

This meeting marks a critical step in addressing community concerns about wildfire safety and housing development, ensuring that Oregon's residential policies adapt to the evolving environmental challenges.