Navigating the ADU Permit Process in Bend and Deschutes County

Greg Powell
Nov 5
4 min read

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Central Oregon can be an incredible way to add value, flexibility, or rental income to your property. But before you break ground, there’s one crucial step that can make or break your project — the permit process.

Whether your property is inside the City of Bend or in unincorporated Deschutes County, understanding the rules, paperwork, and approval timelines can save you months of delays and thousands in unexpected costs.

Here’s what homeowners need to know about navigating the ADU permit process in 2025.

Understanding the Basics: Why Permits Matter

An ADU permit isn’t just red tape — it’s your roadmap to ensure the structure meets local zoning, safety, and building code standards. The process verifies that your project:

Meets setback and lot coverage requirements
Complies with fire and utility access standards
Doesn’t overburden septic or infrastructure systems

Skipping permits might sound tempting, but it can cause big problems later — including fines, legal issues, or trouble selling your property.

Step 1: Determine If You’re in the City or County

Your first step is knowing which jurisdiction you fall under.

City of Bend: Generally offers a faster and more streamlined permit process with fewer restrictions.
Deschutes County: Covers rural and unincorporated areas with stricter land-use and wildfire safety requirements.

You can confirm your location using the Deschutes County Property Information Map or by calling your local planning department.

Step 2: Review Local Zoning and Lot Requirements

Each jurisdiction has different zoning standards for ADUs:

In Bend:

ADUs are allowed on most residential lots.
Owner-occupancy requirements have been removed.
Parking rules are flexible, especially near transit corridors.
ADUs must meet certain height and design compatibility standards.

In Deschutes County:

Rural properties must meet specific lot size and fire safety rules.
Septic system capacity must be verified.
The property must not be in a restricted environmental or flood zone.
Approval often depends on your location within or outside the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB).

Step 3: Prepare Your ADU Plans

Once you know your zoning eligibility, it’s time to prepare your construction documents. You’ll need:

A site plan showing property lines, existing structures, and setbacks
Floor plans and elevations
A utility plan for water, sewer, or septic connections
Structural drawings (for detached ADUs)

If you’re converting a garage or basement, you’ll also need to document compliance with insulation, egress, and ceiling height requirements.

💡 Pro Tip: Hire a designer or architect familiar with Bend and Deschutes County codes — it can make approvals much smoother.

Step 4: Submit for Planning Review

In most cases, you’ll begin with a planning review before building permits are issued.

For City of Bend:

Submit your plans through the city’s online ePlans portal.
Reviews typically take 2–4 weeks if documents are complete.
You may qualify for expedited review if your design meets pre-approved ADU standards.

For Deschutes County:

Submit through the Community Development Department (CDD).
County reviews can take 4–8 weeks, especially for properties requiring environmental or wildfire evaluations.

Step 5: Pay Fees and Receive Approval

Once your plans are approved, you’ll pay permit fees — which typically include:

Building permit
Planning and zoning review
System Development Charges (SDCs) — may be reduced or deferred for ADUs in Bend
State surcharge fees

Keep in mind that Bend occasionally offers SDC waivers or pilot programs for ADUs that meet certain affordability or energy-efficiency criteria.

Step 6: Inspections and Final Approval

After construction begins, inspectors will visit the site at various stages — foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, and final inspection. Once you pass, your ADU will receive a Certificate of Occupancy (CO), meaning it’s officially approved for use.

💡 Pro Tip: Maintain open communication with your contractor and inspector — small issues caught early can prevent big setbacks later.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring setback requirements. Even a few inches off can delay approval.
Overlooking utility connections. Check sewer or septic access early.
Submitting incomplete plans. Missing details are the #1 reason for review delays.
Not budgeting for fees. Permit and system charges can add $5,000–$15,000 depending on location.

Why the ADU Permit Process Is Getting Easier

Both the City of Bend and Deschutes County are actively working to make ADU construction more accessible. In response to Oregon’s housing shortage, new laws like SB 391 and HB 2001 have simplified requirements, reduced red tape, and encouraged property owners to add secondary housing options.

This means 2025 is one of the best times in years to move forward with your ADU project — legally, efficiently, and profitably.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Bend?

A: Most ADU permits in Bend are approved within 30–60 days, assuming your application is complete and code-compliant.

Q: What are the typical fees for ADU permits?

A: Expect total permit fees (including SDCs) to range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on your location and project size.

Q: Do I need a separate address or utilities for my ADU?

A: Yes, your ADU will typically require its own utility hookups and may receive a unique address for emergency services.

Q: Can I start construction before the permit is approved?

A: No. Beginning work before approval can result in fines and major project delays.

Q: Is the process different for converted garages or basements?

A: Conversions often have shorter timelines and lower fees but must meet updated safety, insulation, and egress standards.