May 1, 2026 | View as webpage

Watch Out for Permit Payment Scams

Some Washington County customers have been targeted in a phishing scam aimed at people awaiting building or planning permit approvals. 

Scammers impersonating Washington County staff are sending emails requesting wire transfers for permit payments.

Please stay alert.

"We do not ask people to wire funds to us," said Derrick Moon, Washington County Building Official. "If you get a message asking you to wire funds, contact our office directly to confirm and protect yourself.”

If you are currently in the permitting process and receive a questionable payment request, please call 503-846-3470 or stop by our office to verify its legitimacy.

New Options for ADUs in Rural Areas

Washington County is expanding housing options in its rural areas by allowing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on certain residential lots outside the urban growth boundary.

The Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved the change at their April 28 meeting, opening the door for greater housing flexibility.

“ADUs will better provide multi-generational families the opportunity to live together while maintaining the farming heritage that makes these communities so special," said Jerry Willey, Commissioner for District 4. "It’s a balanced approach that preserves the rural lands we love, while planning for the future.”

The new rules allow one ADU per eligible lot, include size and safety requirements, and ensure the units are used for long-term housing rather than short‑term rentals.

The ordinance goes into effect on May 28, 2026. 

River Road to Reopen on May 19

The developer’s request to extend the closure of SW River Road between SW Davis Road and SW Rosedale Road has been approved to allow additional time to complete the required utility work.

Although this is not a Washington County project, the work is taking place on a County‑maintained roadway.


The closure is needed to install a deep sanitary sewer line in the middle of the roadway for the Witch Hazel Village South development.


We recognize that the closure has created challenges for travelers and neighbors, and we appreciate your continued patience as the work moves forward.


The current detour map remains in place. For construction updates, visit www.pacific-community.com/riverroad

New Speed Limit on Murray Boulevard & Walker Road

Check your speed on Murray Boulevard and Walker Road. Speed limits are temporarily reduced the 35 mph for safety during the intersection construction project.

The new speed limit is in place on Murray Boulevard, between Meridian Street and Butner Road, and Walker Road from Butner Road through the intersection.

Driving slower and staying focused on the road helps our vulnerable road users and construction workers stay safe.

Road construction and the temporary speed reduction will continue through fall 2028.

NOTE: Neighborhood Meeting information is provided as a courtesy only. Developers are required to hold Neighborhood Meetings prior to submitting certain land use applications. These meetings serve as a forum for the developer, property owners within 500 feet in urban areas or 1,000 feet in rural areas, and any other interested parties, to discuss the proposal before an application is submitted to the County. County staff do not schedule these meetings nor attend them. 

Questions? See the contact information included within each Neighborhood Meeting.

Want to learn more about development activity in unincorporated Washington County?

Use the tools below to explore current applications, share comments, and see recent land use decisions.

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Applications Under Review

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Recent Land Use Decisions