The State of Oregon introduced Climate Friendly and Equitable Communities rules in 2023. These rules change how cities are built. Building differently can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help fight climate change.

The rules require cities with over 50,000 people to develop more densely. They also require planning for options like walking, bicycling and public transit. This kind of development helps the State reach its climate goals by reducing carbon emissions.

Parking was the first subject addressed by the City of Bend. In 2023, the Bend City Council voted to remove minimum parking requirements for new development.

The City was directed to consider removing parking requirements by Climate Friendly and Equitable Communities rules.

Previously, the code often required a certain minimum number of parking spaces depending on a building's use.

In 2022, Bend City Council asked staff to write code language to remove minimum parking requirements for new development. Adopted vehicle parking standards can be found here.

No, developers can still build parking; they just won't be required to. Existing parking lots can stay and do not have to be removed.

City Council eliminated parking minimums to reduce barriers to building housing, as well as a way to help reach climate goals. While building parking is not required with new development, a developer can still build parking. Taking away the requirement basically lets the free market dictate how much parking is built instead of government regulation.

Getting rid of parking minimums is one change out of many presented by the Climate Friendly and Equitable Communities rules with a goal of reducing vehicle emissions that contribute to climate change. The overall goal of a change like this is to move away from infrastructure being largely car-dependent and instead focus on investing in development that incentivizes walking, biking and public transit to reduce these emissions.

Community members are welcome to reach out:

• Email the Bend Planning Commission: cityplanningcommissionall@bendoregon.gov
• Email the Bend City Council: councilall@bendoregon.gov