Bend Could Soon Allow Row Houses and Multiple ADUs: What That Means for Housing

Bend is on the cusp of a major zoning and housing policy shift. In response to its growing housing crunch, city officials are proposing changes that could allow for row houses and multiple accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on a single lot—opening the door for increased housing density and more diverse housing types in residential neighborhoods.

But what exactly does this mean for residents, homeowners, and investors?

🔄 The Proposed Changes: A Quick Overview

The City of Bend is considering updates that would:

• ✅ Allow row houses (attached single-family homes with individual ownership)

• ✅ Permit more than one ADU on qualifying lots (currently, most zones allow only one)

• ✅ Loosen lot size, setback, and parking requirements to make these options more feasible

These proposals are part of Bend’s effort to comply with Oregon House Bill 2001, a state law requiring cities to allow more middle housing options.

🏡 What Are Row Houses?

Row houses (also called townhomes) are typically:

• Narrow, attached homes with separate entrances

• Two or three stories

• Built on smaller, fee-simple lots

• A more affordable alternative to detached single-family homes

These could become a great option for first-time buyers, downsizers, or anyone priced out of traditional single-family housing in Bend.

🏠 What Are Multiple ADUs?

An ADU is a small second dwelling on a property—think of a backyard cottage, garage apartment, or converted basement. Allowing multiple ADUs per lot would let homeowners:

• Add a second rental unit for income

• Create multi-generational living options

• Increase property value and long-term flexibility

This could be especially helpful for aging homeowners, families needing rental income, or those wanting to build generational wealth through real estate.

💡 Why It Matters

🔹 More Housing Without Sprawl

Adding housing in existing neighborhoods helps reduce sprawl and preserve surrounding open space—while still increasing supply.

🔹 Lower Price Points

Row houses and ADUs can be significantly more affordable to build and buy than detached homes—opening doors for more buyers.

🔹 Investment Opportunities

These changes could offer new value-add options for investors, including long-term rentals or creative co-living models.

🧭 Who Will Benefit Most?

• Homeowners looking to build equity or bring in rental income

• First-time buyers priced out of the market

• Developers and builders focused on smaller-footprint projects

• Families needing flexibility for adult children or aging parents

🛠️ When Could This Happen?

City planners are currently reviewing proposals, with potential adoption expected later in 2025. If passed, the new rules could go into effect by early 2026, depending on the legislative process and any public feedback.

This policy shift could mark a new chapter in Bend’s approach to housing—one that embraces creative solutions, affordability, and smart infill development. Whether you're a homeowner looking to add a unit, a buyer seeking something more attainable, or an investor watching the zoning map closely, this is a trend to keep your eye on.

If you're curious how this could impact your home or your investment plans, let’s connect—I’d be happy to walk you through the possibilities.

FAQs

❓Will this change my neighborhood?

Possibly—but the idea is to integrate more housing gradually and thoughtfully, not to radically alter community character overnight.

❓Can I build two ADUs right away?

You’ll likely need to wait for the new rules to pass and check specific lot requirements, like size and zoning.

❓Will this raise or lower property values?

More flexibility can increase value for homeowners who want to develop their land, though impacts vary by neighborhood.