Zoning & Size Limits
| Requirement | Eugene, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|
| Allowed Zones | All residential zones | Accessory to detached single-family dwellings in residential |
| Max Size (Detached) | 800 sq ft (or 10% of lot area, whichever is smaller) | 900 sq ft (or 75% of the main building gross floor area, whichever is less) |
| Max Size (Attached) | 800 sq ft (or 10% of lot area, whichever is smaller) | 900 sq ft (or 75% of the main building gross floor area, whichever is less) |
| Max Height | Detached ADUs set back from the front are height-l | Confirm with Salem Planning (SRC 700.007) |
| Parking Required | Not required (Oregon HB 2001 prohibits ADU-specific parking | Not required (Oregon HB 2001 prohibits ADU-specific parking |
| Owner Occupancy | Not required | Not required |
Setback Requirements
| Setback | Eugene, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|
| Rear Setback | 10 feet | Confirm with Salem Planning (SRC 700.007) |
| Side Setback | 5 feet (interior yard); Confirm with Eugene Planning | Confirm with Salem Planning (SRC 700.007) |
| Front Setback | 10 feet; Confirm with Eugene Planning | Confirm with Salem Planning (SRC 700.007) |
Permits & Timeline
| Detail | Eugene, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|
| Permit Timeline | 35-50 days | 45-65 days |
| Permit Fees | $1,600-$2,700 | $1,800-$3,000 |
| Impact Fees | Minimal | Minimal ($200-$400) |
| Pre-Approved Plans | Available | Available for detached ADUs |
Construction Costs
| Cost | Eugene, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|
| Avg Build Cost | $140,000-$280,000 | $130,000-$260,000 |
| Cost Per Sq Ft | $130-$260 | $125-$250 |
| Garage Conversion | $65,000-$155,000 | $60,000-$150,000 |
| Prefab ADU | $95,000-$220,000 | $90,000-$210,000 |
Rental Income Potential
| Rental | Eugene, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|
| 1BR Avg Rent | $1,200-$1,700/mo | $1,100-$1,550/mo |
| 2BR Avg Rent | $1,600-$2,400/mo | $1,400-$2,000/mo |
| Short-Term Rentals | Yes, permitted | Permitted with license |
| Est. ROI | 7-10% annual return | 7-9% annual return |
Which City Is Better for ADUs?
Eugene scores 8/10 while Salem scores 7/10 on our ADU-friendliness index.
Eugene edges ahead overall. Both cities offer viable ADU development opportunities — the best choice depends on your specific property, budget, and goals.
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