Tips for Successful Citizen Participation
in Land Use Decisions

• If you are not familiar with Oregon's land use planning laws and the process by which land use decisions are made, you need to learn the basics. A useful resource may be A Citizen's Guide to Land Use Planning, published by 1000 Friends.

• Once you have a basic understanding of how the process works, visit your local planning department and ask to see the staff report and any written decisions regarding the project or proposal that concerns you.

These are public documents and will provide useful information about the decision being considered. You may request copies, and there may be a charge for this.

• Determine which portion(s) of your local comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance applies to the land use application or issue you are concerned about. A staff report, if there is one, may list this information. Otherwise, consult a member of the planning department.

Then, get a copy of the relevant portion of your city or county plan and development code from the planning department or local public library. In addition, state statutes and/or administrative rules may also apply. For this information, consult the Citizens' Guide, your library, or the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD).

• Find out when hearings are scheduled on the matter. To maintain your right to appeal, you are frequently required to participate orally or in writing during local hearings. Your testimony should address the criteria in the local plan and ordinance relevant to the approval being sought.

Board Guidelines on When 1000 Friends Gets Involved

1000 Friends Citizen Guides on Involvement in Land Use Proceedings and Appeals

Request for Assistance Form (pdf)