Everything homeowners ask about building an ADU in Bend — answered with 2026 data.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in All residential zones in Bend, OR. The maximum size for a detached ADU is 800 sq ft maximum floor area. Attached ADUs can be up to 800 sq ft maximum floor area. Bend has an ADU-friendliness score of 7/10. Check our full Bend ADU rules page for complete zoning details.
ADU construction in Bend typically costs $140,000-$280,000. The cost per square foot averages $140-$280. Garage conversions are more affordable at $70,000-$160,000, while prefab ADUs cost $100,000-$230,000. Permit fees add $1,700-$2,900 to your budget. See our detailed Bend ADU cost guide.
Detached ADUs in Bend can be up to 800 sq ft maximum floor area. Attached ADUs are limited to 800 sq ft maximum floor area. Junior ADUs (JADUs) have a cap of N/A (Oregon does not use a separate JADU category). Maximum height is Per underlying zoning district; Confirm with Bend Planning. You are allowed up to Up to 2 ADUs per lot on a qualifying lot.
Rear setback: Per underlying zoning district; detached ADU must be at least 6 ft from the main house. Side setback: Per underlying zoning district; Confirm with Bend Planning. Front setback: Per underlying zoning district; Confirm with Bend Planning. Note that garage conversions may be exempt from setback requirements if the existing structure is already within the setback area.
Not required (no minimum on-site parking for ADUs). Many cities and states have been relaxing ADU parking requirements in recent years. In California, no additional parking is required for ADUs near transit.
Not required. Note that owner-occupancy rules vary by state law — California and several other states have eliminated this requirement for standard ADUs.
The ADU permit review timeline in Bend is typically 40-55 days. Plan check: 2-3 weeks. Pre-approved plans availability: Available.
Average ADU rental income in Bend: 1-bedroom units rent for $1,300-$1,800/month, 2-bedroom units for $1,700-$2,500/month. Short-term rentals: Yes (vacation rental restrictions apply). Expected ROI: 7-10% annual return.
The minimum lot size for an ADU in Bend is None - ADUs are permitted on any lot with a single-unit dwelling (BDC 3.6.200). This applies to detached ADUs — garage conversions and JADUs may have different or no lot size requirements.
Garage conversions are one of the most popular and affordable ADU options. In Bend, a garage conversion typically costs $70,000-$160,000. The key advantages are lower cost (no foundation work), potential setback exemptions, and faster permitting. Read our complete garage conversion guide.