OR SB1561

Local governments must approve applications to restore or replace dwellings damaged or destroyed by natural or involuntary causes when the former dwelling had intact walls, roof, plumbing, wiring, heating, and was either permitted or assessed as residential for tax purposes 10 years prior to application

Replacement dwellings may not exceed the original floor area by more than 25% and must be located wholly or partially within the original footprint unless flood regulations or natural hazards require relocation elsewhere on the same lot

Replacement dwellings must comply with building codes in effect as of January 1, 2008, or the date of the original construction, whichever is later

Approvals under this process are not classified as land use decisions and are subject only to limited judicial review under ORS 34.010 to 34.100, with local government findings entitled to deference if supported by any evidence

Local governments may delegate approval authority to a hearings officer, planning commission, or building official, and may not impose additional conditions except those necessary to maintain National Flood Insurance Program eligibility