Garage conversion rules in Washington County, OR — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Garage conversions to ADUs are permitted under Oregon state law requiring ADUs on residential lots. Building permits are required for all conversions. Construction must comply with Oregon Residential Specialty Code including fire separation requirements.
Oregon’s strong ADU laws (ORS 197.312(5)) facilitate garage conversions into accessory dwelling units. Washington County must allow at least one ADU per single-family lot, and garage conversions are a common method. Building permits required to meet habitable space standards: ceiling height, ventilation, egress, insulation, electrical, plumbing. Replacement parking may or may not be required depending on Washington County code and proximity to transit. Oregon eliminated parking minimums for ADUs near transit.
Unpermitted conversion: building code enforcement. Must bring to code or restore. Safety violations: immediate correction.
Washington County, OR
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See how Washington County's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
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