ORS Chapter 215 establishes Exclusive Farm Use zones that limit non-farm development and preserve agricultural land statewide.
Oregon pioneered statewide land use planning through SB 100 (1973), which directs counties to designate Exclusive Farm Use (EFU) zones under ORS 215.203 and related provisions. Within EFU zones, farm use is the primary permitted use, and non-farm dwellings, commercial activity, and subdivisions are sharply restricted under ORS 215.213 and 215.283. Land Conservation and Development Commission Goals 3 and 4 reinforce protection of farm and forest lands. The Department of Land Conservation and Development reviews county compliance, and ORS 215.130 limits nonconforming uses. Together with Right to Farm, these tools create some of the strongest farm-protection rules in the nation.
Unauthorized non-farm uses on EFU land can trigger county enforcement orders, fines, and removal requirements.
Eugene, OR
Eugene Code §4.083 prohibits construction activities between 7 PM and 7 AM. Operating pile drivers, pneumatic hammers, and heavy equipment is restricted duri...
Eugene, OR
Eugene addresses barking dogs through its noise disturbance ordinances and animal control regulations. Persistent barking that disturbs neighbors is a violat...
Eugene, OR
Eugene Code §4.083 and §6.750 regulate noise disturbances. Residential heat pumps and mechanical devices must not exceed 60 dBA at the property line. Lawn eq...
Eugene, OR
Eugene requires driveways to meet city engineering standards. Vehicles must not block sidewalks. Driveway construction requires permits from Public Works.
Eugene, OR
Eugene regulates on-street parking through its traffic code. Vehicles may not park in one location for more than 24 hours in some zones. Downtown has metered...
Eugene, OR
Eugene limits fences per its land use code. Front yard fences are typically limited to 3.5 feet. Side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet. Chain link an...
See how Eugene's agricultural zoning protection rules stack up against other locations.
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