Land Use

A lawsuit filed in West Linn could have far-reaching implications for how Oregonians participate in land-use decisions—including projects that affect existing trees and natural areas. The case challenges House Bill 4037, a new state law that took effect on July 1, 2026. Among many housing-related reforms, the law changes how cities review many housing developments that meet "clear and objective" standards. For those projects, local governments generally may no longer hold pub