Resources

Planning, also called land use planning, urban planning or city and regional planning, is a dynamic profession that works to improve the welfare of people and their communities by creating more convenient, equitable, healthful, efficient, and attractive places for present and future generations. Good planning enables civic leaders, businesses, and citizens to play a meaningful role in creating communities that enrich people's lives. Planning serves as a "road map" to help community members envision how and where their community will grow, and will help them find the right balance of new development and essential services, protection of the environment, and innovative change (this definition is derived from the American Planning Association).

Many people's first introduction to land use planning and planners occurs when they need a permit to build a new home or an addition, deck or shed to their existing home. Review and control of urban development (homes, garages, commercial buildings, parking lots, etc.) is primarily regulated through adopted zoning and subdivision codes. This type of planning is called current planning or development review. Planning includes a variety of activities including processing the aforementioned applications, approving land divisions and commercial development, protecting streams, slopes, historic homes and the floodplain, as well as community organizing, and an assortment of long-term visioning activities.

A Comprehensive Plan is the primary long-range planning document for guiding the development of the city. Like any good business plan, it is kept up-to-date, so that it is effective and reflect the needs of Oregon City residents. Periodic review of the City’s Comprehensive plans is required every five years or so in order to accomplish this. The plan was last reviewed in 2004 with slight adjustments currently being reviewed by the City Commission. Please take time to review the plan and send us your comments about it. Thanks!

The Oregon City Municipal Code is reviewed for compliance with all federal, state, and Metro standards. This locally adopted code therefore implements all of the following:

• Federal Requirements (such as wetland and stream protection)
• State Requirements (such as the urban growth boundary and citizen participation)
• Metro (Our Regional Government) Requirements (such as habitat protection)
• City Requirements (such as home design standards)