The rules that Washington County uses to guide how land is used and developed are called the Community Development Code (CDC). The massive document has been compiled and amended over the years. The main sections are Introduction And General Provisions; Procedures; Land Use Districts; Development Standards; Public Facilities And Services; Land Divisions And Property Line Adjustments; and Public Transportation Facilities.

The complexity of the document creates challenges for developers. The County has been reviewing the code to ensure it reflects state law, is easier for users to navigate, and reduces barriers to housing production.

“The CDC is a huge document,” said Theresa Cherniak, Washington County’s Community Planning Section Manager. “After many updates over the years, it has become difficult to navigate. We’re identifying what needs to be cleaned up to make it easier to use and help ensure greater clarity and objectivity.”

Community input needed

Two Open House events are coming up to educate us and provide an opportunity for input.

Online Open House

March 13-April 5. Available anytime during this period. Learn more and share your feedback online! Your input will help ensure the CDC reflects community priorities and supports a vibrant, livable future. Link to the Open House will be live on March 13.

In-Person Open House

Tuesday, March 17, 6:30-8:30 pm, Washington Street Conference Center, 102 SW Washington Street, Hillsboro

Meet project staff, ask questions, and provide input in person.

“We want to hear from the community about what they think should be addressed first,” said Cherniak. “A project like this is more important than some might think. Few County documents have so much influence on how we develop land, meet housing needs, protect natural resources, and plan for strong, resilient communities.”

Community feedback will help guide future packages of Community Development Code amendments considered by the Planning Commission and Board of County Commissioners.

Visit the CDC Assessment Project page for background on how the study has been conducted so far, preliminary recommendations, notes from the focus groups, and materials from presentations.