Accessory Structures

Garages, Sheds, & Other Accessory Structures for Residentially-Zoned Properties

Accessory structures are detached from the primary structure (a house, typically). Regulations for accessory structures are summarized below. Refer to Woodburn Development Ordinance (WDO) 2.02 for the regulations of the applicable zoning district, 2.05 if an overlay district is relevant, and 2.06 that is specific to accessory structures. 

If your property is within a "planned unit development" (PUD), there might be specific standards for that PUD that are separate from the WDO. Please contact the Community Development Department to determine if your property is within a PUD.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have additional regulations not covered on this Residential Accessory Structures webpage.
 

Accessory Structures:

• Must be at least 5 feet from rear and side property lines.

• Must be at least 6 feet from all other buildings.

• Count towards total lot coverage (the percentage of the lot that is covered by a roofed structure). Most lots have a maximum lot coverage of 35 or 40%. There is a lot coverage worksheet below under Supporting Documents to help calculate lot coverage.

• Can occupy up to 25% of the rear yard.

• Eaves may encroach into setbacks:  1.5 feet into a side setback and 2 feet into a rear setback.

• Can be no taller than 15 feet. This is measured to the middle of a pitched roof or peak of a flat roof.

• Are prohibited within easements and within 50 feet of creeks and wetlands.

A building permit is required if:

• The structure is greater than 200 square feet; or

• The wall height is greater than 15 feet, measured from the finished floor to the top of the wall.

Refer to the Building Division for building permit questions.
 

Additional Guidelines:

• Tax Maps showing approximate property lines can be found via the Marion County Assessor’s Office. Search property records here: https://mcasr.co.marion.or.us/.

• Many properties have metal pins at corners delineating property lines. The Public Works Department has a metal detector that can be borrowed for up to 24 hours at no charge. Call 503-982-5240.

• Electrical and plumbing permits are handled through Marion County Public Works. Call 503-588-5036 for more information.

• Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) may have privately enforced covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) for accessory structures. The City does not track or enforce such contracts.
   

Disclaimer: This webpage is intended purely as a guide. The information contained in it is subject to change at any time. Refer to the Woodburn Development Ordinance (WDO) or contact staff to confirm any details.