We're seeking input for the TGM Model Development Code update
The Transportation Growth Management program is updating the Model Development Code for Small Cities. Over the last 18 months, we drafted language to be more useful for small city planners, builders, and decision-makers, to comply with current state laws, and to use today's planning practices.
Before we publish the model code, we are seeking feedback from planners, city officials, developers, and anyone interested in development codes.
Review the draft and give your feedback in the online survey.
The survey closes September 25, 2026.
More information about the Model Development Code for Small Cities
The Model Development Code for Small Cities is a free technical resource that helps small cities integrate land use and transportation planning; create mixed-use, walkable urban design; and meet legal requirements under land use law. The code is generally designed for cities with populations under 10,000, but cities of any size may find useful sections in the code. The last major code update was in 2012.
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The Transportation and Growth Management Program (TGM) provides code assistance to help local governments update land development regulations to promote efficient land use and transportation. These community projects aim to:
- Promote a balanced, multi-modal transportation system and development pattern that increases opportunities for people to walk, bike, and use transit;
- Increase the ease of use and availability of walking, biking, and transit;
- Provide alternatives to, or delay the need for, major road expansions and urban growth boundary expansions.
TGM Code Assistance projects typically address pedestrian-friendly design standards, mixed-use development, land-efficient development, housing, parking reform, and development procedures.
Projects are selected using an application process. See the
eligibility and selection criteria for more information on the selection process. TGM prioritizes projects that:
TGM is unable to fund a general code update that would not further TGM Objectives. This type of project may be eligible for other
DLCD grant opportunities.
Code Assistance projects can be done in one or two phases. Two-phase projects start with an assessment of the current regulations, followed by drafting code amendments for consideration by local decision makers. One-phased projects are for communities that already have a clear idea of what changes are needed and are ready to start the code amendments.
Usually, TGM contracts with consultants to work with the city or county, and sometimes DLCD staff provide direct assistance. Each project requires significant involvement of local jurisdiction staff and support including public notices and meeting logistics.>
Model Development Code for Small Cities
The TGM Model Development Code for Small Cities includes a wide variety of necessary code elements for a city to use as a starting point, or to adopt outright. TGM is currently updating the model code. The last substantive update to the model code was in 2012 (Edition 3.0) and that language is out of compliance with recent legislation. For help using the code while it is being updated, contact Nicole Cross at
nicole.cross@dlcd.oregon.gov or 971-446-0334.
Project Updates
Sign up for email announcements about this update to model code.
View the
presentation slides and
recording of the first Model Code Technical Advisory Committee meeting including overview of the scope and schedule of this project.
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