The newly renamed city agency Portland Permitting & Development (PP&D) recently released a collection of pre-approved plan sets for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) that could save people time navigating the pre-construction process. Portland based its implementation on City of Eugene created plans and a program that works to remove barriers for people adding housing units to their properties. Four variations of a standard floor plan offer prospective builders free plans that are pre-approved for Life Safety and Structural requirements, reducing the building permit approval times that have increased over the last few years.
On July 1st, the Bureau of Development Services became PP&D as Portland works towards increasing permitting efficiencies and reducing costly delays for people looking to build in the city. The new name includes an organizational update that moves permitting staff under unified management, no longer forcing people to navigate multiple bureaus and processes to gain building approval. Simplifying bureaucracy and removing code hindrances are part of the reforms leaders have enacted to increase housing construction. Last year, a preliminary review process and subsequent survey of developers identified less critical requirements that were most likely to dissuade housing production. In February, the City Council approved the Housing Regulatory Relief Project, which officials hope will spur housing production by providing temporary waivers and permanent changes to zoning regulations.
These changes to the permitting process will take time to improve efficiency and simplify the process. That is why PP&D pursued a method to hasten ADU construction through the pre-approved plan program. This process also has roots in an effort to increase housing equity with program improvements planned to make free resources available for people who may lack access to paid design professionals or the experience needed when navigating the permitting process. Adding housing to a property is a recognized way for people to stabilize rising housing costs through additional revenue, accommodate multi-generational households, or offer age-in-place options where people can live in an ADU while renting their family-sized home.
The current plans offer designs with a shed or gable roof that people can build on a concrete slab foundation or wood-framed floor. Due to its studio-style layout, the single floor plan option will not work for all living situations. The shed roof option or gabled roof versions with a covered front porch will not meet ADU size limits when built within side and rear setbacks. Many other site considerations and potential hindrances to receiving a permit with the pre-approved plans exist. However, it is one step further to making the ADU process faster and more approachable.
People considering this option must account for the considerable building expense they will incur. Even with owner-supplied labor offsetting some work, an ADU of this size could cost over $100,000. Some estimates would put that closer to double that number. The city will charge building permit fees, water service fees, and System Development Charges (SDCs), adding to the overall project costs. Consequently, free pre-approved plans will not be enough incentive for many homeowners considering an ADU. Still, it may help speed up the process for people who have already chosen to add housing density to their property and serve as a tool for builders interested in packaging ADU projects at a standard rate. The PP&D website has additional information about ADUs and important details regarding further costs and restrictions.
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