In a public hearing on April 28, 2025, Bend’s Planning Commission took a major step toward reshaping the future of housing by considering exciting amendments to the Bend Development Code. If adopted, these updates would allow homeowners to install a second kitchen in single-family homes and build up to two accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on a single lot. These bold changes—years in the making—aim to empower homeowners and open up more housing choices in one of Oregon’s fastest-growing cities (bendscna.org, CitizenPortal).

A Statewide Push, A Local Leap Forward

Oregon has been leading the charge with legislation like HB 2001, which promotes “middle housing” in traditional single-family neighborhoods. But Bend’s housing needs are uniquely urgent: the city must add more than 30,000 new homes over the next two decades to meet demand. That’s why city leaders see ADUs as a flexible, affordable solution that puts more power in the hands of homeowners (The Bulletin).

Bend’s ADU Evolution: Building Momentum

Since 2001, Bend has issued nearly 1,000 ADU permits, with the vast majority approved in the last ten years. Major policy updates in 2016 removed key barriers and sparked a surge in ADU construction. By simplifying rules and encouraging innovation, Bend laid the foundation for what’s coming next: even more opportunity to build, create, and thrive (The Bulletin).

What’s on the Table Now?

The proposed updates would keep the maximum size for one ADU at 800 square feet, but introduce a second, smaller unit at up to 500 square feet. And for the first time, homeowners could include a second kitchen in their primary home—perfect for multi-generational living, rental flexibility, or future duplex conversions. Even townhomes could gain more design options with reduced setback requirements (bendscna.org, The Bulletin).

Community Input That Sparked Change

This moment didn’t happen overnight. It started in June 2023, when a city workshop brought together builders, property owners, and community leaders. Their message? Bend needed more flexibility—more kitchens, more homes, more options. That feedback directly shaped the draft code now under review (The Bulletin).

Planning Commission’s Green Light

Senior Planner Pauline Hardie presented the proposal on April 28, highlighting its careful design and sewer-capacity safeguards. The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval—marking a big win for smart, grassroots growth and a clear signal that the city is listening (CitizenPortal).

What Happens Next?

Bend’s City Council will review the amendments in upcoming meetings on May 21 and June 4, 2025. These public sessions are the final step before adoption. If approved, the new rules could roll out as early as this summer—setting the stage for a housing boom led by creative homeowners (City of Bend).

What the Community Is Saying

Affordable Housing Manager Rachael Baker praised ADUs as resilient, budget-friendly housing options that can be built quickly. Neighborhood groups, including Southern Crossing, support the changes too—especially if short-term rentals remain limited. The sentiment? Let’s build more homes while keeping community character intact (The Bulletin, bendscna.org).

A Few Nuts and Bolts

To build two ADUs, homeowners must still follow lot coverage limits (30%–60%) and may need to verify sewer capacity if density exceeds zoning. But the city is preparing helpful resources and clear guidelines to make the process smooth (City of Bend).

How Much Could This Really Add?

Projections are optimistic: adding a second ADU option could double Bend’s annual ADU output, translating to hundreds of new homes each year. As the city races to meet its 2045 housing goals, this change could be one of the most impactful moves yet (The Bulletin).

Let’s Build the Future, One Unit at a Time

If adopted, these changes could unlock new ways for Bend homeowners to build smarter, live better, and contribute to the city’s future. Whether it’s a rental cottage, a family studio, or a flexible layout with two kitchens, the next chapter in Bend housing is all about choice and possibility. The future is looking bright—and it might just start in your own backyard.