Oregon requires approval for some damaged-home replacements

Local governments must approve an application to restore or replace a qualifying damaged home. The rule covers homes damaged or destroyed by a natural or other involuntary event, if the former home meets the listed condition and approval or tax-assessment tests. The former home must have had exterior walls and a roof, plumbing, indoor lights, and heat, and must have been properly approved or meet the stated tax-assessment test without an unresolved challenge to its lawfulness. The replacement may be no more than 25 percent larger, must have water, sanitation, and road access, and must meet the building codes in effect when the damage occurred. It must be on or partly within the former home's footprint unless moving it is needed to follow local flood rules or avoid a natural hazard; then the applicant may choose a suitable spot on the same property. Local governments may add approval or siting conditions only as needed to remain in the National Flood Insurance Program. Applications must be filed within three years after the event. Construction must start within four years after final approval. The damaged home must be removed, demolished, included in the replacement, or changed to nonresidential use within three months after the replacement is certified for occupancy.