Commission hears staff note that SB 974 could limit local residential design standards

City planning staff advised the Newberg Planning Commission that state legislation — discussed in the meeting as "Senate Bill 974" — could limit local authority to impose residential design standards on certain housing developments, including PUDs and some multifamily projects. Staff recommended making targeted clarifications to the PUD section now but cautioned the commission that future state rulemaking could require additional changes.
A staff presenter said the legislation, which has an effective date in 2026 according to staff, may preempt some local design standards for developments of 20 or more units and could affect PUD review, public-notice requirements, and whether a hearing is required unless appealed. Commissioner Chris Wright summarized staff comments during the meeting: “Written notice must be sent to nearby property owners and community organizations, a 14 day comment period before decisions...local governments cannot impose residential design standards on developments with 20 or more units or multifamily structures.” Staff recommended proceeding with the code maintenance clarifications already discussed but monitoring state rulemaking and returning to the commission if new rules require changes.
Staff described the approach as pragmatic: amend clear code errors and clarifications now, monitor the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) rulemaking, and apply statutes directly where temporary or sunsetted state requirements exist to avoid repeatedly amending municipal code.