HB 3024 – Replacing Dwellings in EFU Zones: Representative Jack Zika introduced this OPOA bill which allows property owners in EFU zones to replace dwellings that are 1) currently being used as a dwelling, 2) were once used as a dwelling but have been abandoned and have become dilapidated, or 3) were once in existence and used as a dwelling but have since been removed and are no longer on the property.
In 2013, OPOA led the charge to pass HB 2746, which first enabled owners of EFU zoned property to replace dwellings that had become dilapidated or were removed and no longer on the property. Prior to that time, the only dwellings that could be replaced were dwellings that were on the property and currently being used as a dwelling.
Unfortunately, the 2013 legislation was complicated and difficult to understand, and led to litigation that ended in the Oregon Supreme Court. HB 3024 greatly simplifies the replacement dwelling statute, and makes it much easier for owners of EFU properties to qualify for replacement dwellings. The bill sunsets in January, 2024, unless reauthorized by the legislature. Owners of EFU property that once had a dwelling should read this bill carefully. There may be opportunities to replace a dwelling, even if there is another dwelling on the property.