Accessory Dwelling Units in Bend, Oregon
An Accessory Dwelling Unit, or ADU, is a second dwelling created on a lot that already has an existing residence. These units go by many names — granny flats, studio apartments, mother-in-law units, or backyard cottages — and they are becoming an increasingly common choice for homeowners in Bend, Oregon. Montgomery Builders works with clients in this space, helping them navigate the options available for adding an ADU to their property.
ADUs can take several different forms depending on the property and the homeowner's goals. There are three primary approaches:
- Conversion of existing space — such as a garage conversion or basement conversion into a livable unit
- Addition to the existing home — expanding the current structure to create a separate living area
- Detached ADU construction — building a new, standalone structure on the same lot, sometimes referred to as a backyard cottage or casita
Each of these approaches comes with its own design possibilities, provided the project adheres to Bend's Development Codes. Montgomery Builders helps clients understand these requirements as part of the planning process.
A Changing Regulatory Landscape in Bend
In 2016, the City of Bend made notable changes to its ADU regulations. Residents are no longer required to submit a conditional use permit, which previously gave neighbors the ability to appeal such projects. Permit costs have also been reduced. These changes have had a measurable effect — the city saw a significant rise in ADU building permits following the policy shift, with dozens of permits issued or under review in a single year compared to just a handful of other multi-unit projects.
The intent behind the relaxed regulations was to encourage more property owners to consider building an ADU. City data suggests that ADUs can help maintain the character of established Bend neighborhoods while also supporting infill development within city limits. A more flexible ADU policy is seen as a way to encourage density and limit urban sprawl — both priorities for Bend's long-term planning.
Affordable housing has also become a growing concern in the area. With a limited number of homes qualifying as affordable housing in Bend, city officials have pointed to ADUs as one practical way to increase availability. Property owners who build ADUs can contribute to addressing this need while also creating a potential rental income stream and adding value to their property.
What Montgomery Builders Offers
Montgomery Builders operates as an ADU contractor serving the Bend, Oregon area. Whether a client is interested in a garage conversion, an in-law suite, a detached ADU, or another type of accessory dwelling unit, they bring experience in local building codes and construction to the project.
As the number of ADU applications in Bend continues to grow, Montgomery Builders is positioned to assist homeowners who are ready to move forward with this type of project. ADUs represent a practical solution to several housing challenges in the city, and working with an experienced ADU builder can help ensure the process goes smoothly from planning through completion.