Palmer Mason

Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development

The Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) is a small state agency. We work in partnership with local governments, and state and federal agencies, to address the land use needs of the public, communities, regions, and the state. The Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) provides policy direction for the land use planning program and oversees DLCD operations. We help carry out the vision and legacy of Senate Bill 100, which for 50 years has contributed to the quality and character of the natural and built environment of the state. 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the Department of Land Conservation and Development, the Land Conservation and Development Commission, and the signing of Senate Bill 100. The program has been charged by the Legislature with managing urban growth; protecting farm and forest lands, coastal areas, and natural resource lands; and providing for safe, livable communities in concert with the vision of the local communities. Under the statewide land use planning program, each city and county is called upon to adopt and maintain a comprehensive plan and an implementing zoning code consistent with 19 statewide planning goals. Recognizing that each city and county has unique values and aspirations, our job is to provide planning guidance and technical assistance to help communities plan for their future while considering the needs of the region and the state. Helping cities and counties address these functions in the context of a wide range of state and local interests requires that we be problem solvers. The department's mission reflects this active role.