New Parking Requirements for Multifamily Housing Supporting Housing Affordability and Climate-Friendly Choices

As part of the State of Oregon’s Climate Friendly and Equitable Communities (CFEC) initiative, cities across the state—including Happy Valley—are adopting new approaches to how parking is offered at multifamily housing developments. These changes are aimed at making housing more affordable, reducing pollution, and giving residents more choice in how they live and get around.

We understand that changes to how parking is managed can raise questions and concerns. Our goal is to share clear information, answer your questions, and support a smooth and fair transition for everyone.

 

What Is Changing?

Effective June 30, 2025, all multifamily housing properties in Happy Valley must “unbundle” parking from the cost of rent. This means:

• Parking may no longer be included for free or bundled with rent.
• Each parking space must be offered as a separate, optional charge.
• The minimum cost is $130 per parking stall per month.
• Tenants may choose whether or not to rent a parking space.

These changes apply to new leases and renewals signed on or after June 30, 2025.

 

Why Is This Happening?

The City of Happy Valley — along with several other cities — sued the state over the legality of the CFEC requirements but did not prevail in court. This change is part of Oregon’s larger climate and equity strategy, which focuses on:

• Lowering housing costs—so renters who do not need a parking space are not forced to pay for one.
• Supporting transportation choice—encouraging options like walking, biking, transit, and car-sharing.
• Reducing pollution—by reducing car dependence and traffic impacts.
• Creating fairer systems—especially for lower-income residents who are less likely to own vehicles.

You can learn more about the state’s policy at the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development’s CFEC page.

 

How Will This Affect Me?

We recognize that changes like this may raise concerns, especially around costs. The intent of this policy is not to increase what tenants pay overall—but to ensure fairness in how those costs are distributed.

• If you are signing a new lease or renewing on or after June 30, 2025, your property manager must give you the option to rent a parking space separately.
• If you do not want or need a parking space, you will not be required to pay for one.
• The City strongly encourages landlords to reduce base rent for those who do not rent parking and to avoid increasing total housing costs for those who choose to keep parking. In other words, the goal is to allow renters to save money if they opt out of parking, while maintaining stable total costs for those who continue to use it.

These rules are designed to support equity, affordability, and sustainability—without creating a financial burden on tenants.

 

What Is the City Doing to Help?

The City of Happy Valley is here to support residents, landlords, and property managers through this transition. We are:

• Reaching out directly to apartment managers to ensure they understand the requirements.
• Providing guidance and resources for compliance.
• Offering support to residents who have questions or concerns.

 

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

We know this is new and may raise questions. If you need help understanding what this means for you, please reach out.

📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: 503-783-3800

 

We’re committed to making Happy Valley a place where everyone can thrive—now and into the future.