Why Choose a Pre-Approved ADU Plan?
A Closer Look at Bend’s First Pre-Approved ADU by Sierra James Construction
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) continue to grow in popularity across Bend, and for good reason. They create flexible living space, add gentle density, and provide attainable housing options without changing the character of existing neighborhoods. For many homeowners, though, the cost of building an ADU can be a challenge. That’s where the City of Bend’s Pre-Approved ADU Program comes in.
In 2023, the City of Bend launched its pre-approved ADU plan library as part of a broader effort to address the city’s middle-income housing shortage. These ready-to-use plans are reviewed in advance, helping homeowners save both time and money during the early stages of construction.
Sierra James Construction is proud to have built the very first pre-approved ADU in Bend, located in the Larkspur neighborhood. As a Bend-based design-build remodel company focused on efficient and practical housing solutions, we were excited to help bring this new program to life.
What Is a Pre-Approved ADU Plan?
A pre-approved ADU plan is a residential design that has already been reviewed and approved by the City of Bend’s Building Safety Division for code compliance. These plans receive advance approval for key building components, including:
- Structural engineering
- Life safety requirements such as egress, smoke alarms, and fire separation
- Energy efficiency standards, including thermal envelope R-values and air sealing
- Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, including ventilation and utility sizing
- Additional requirements outlined in the 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code
Because these elements are approved ahead of time, homeowners can skip a full phase of plan review, which helps reduce upfront costs.
Important note: Homeowners are still required to provide a site plan and complete the Planning review process to confirm compliance with the Bend Development Code.
At the time of writing, the City of Bend offers one 576-square-foot pre-approved ADU plan (seen here), with additional designs expected in the future. These plans are available to the public at no cost, making them one of the most accessible ways to build an ADU in Bend, Oregon.
How Pre-Approved ADU Plans Save Money
No Architectural Design Fees
Custom design is often one of the most expensive parts of an ADU project. With a pre-approved plan, homeowners receive a complete architect-designed layout at no additional cost.
Reduced Engineering and Review Costs
Since the City of Bend has already reviewed the plan for structural and engineering requirements, homeowners can bypass that portion of the permitting process. While standard permits still apply, avoiding engineering review can lead to meaningful cost savings and fewer revisions.
Together, these factors help make ADU construction more attainable for Bend homeowners.
How Pre-Approved ADU Plans Save Time
Skipping the Design Phase
The design phase alone can take weeks or months. A pre-approved ADU plan allows homeowners to move directly into permitting and construction preparation.
Potential Permitting Time Savings
Because the Building Safety Division has already approved the plans, some projects may see modest time savings during permitting. However, Planning review must still take place and usually takes longer. Therefore, permit time savings are not guaranteed, but they are possible in certain situations.
Overall, pre-approved plans streamline the pre-construction process and help homeowners reach the build phase sooner.
From Recovery to Opportunity: Bend’s First Pre-Approved ADU
Bend’s first pre-approved ADU began with an unexpected loss. After a garage was destroyed by fire, the homeowner turned to the Disaster Restoration team at Sierra James Construction to repair the damage to their primary residence.
During the recovery process, the homeowner chose to reimagine the property. Instead of rebuilding the garage, they decided to construct an ADU in its place, creating a more functional and future-focused use of the space.
Our Design-Build Remodel team worked closely with the homeowner and the City of Bend to transform the original footprint into a thoughtfully designed ADU. That project ultimately became the City’s first completed pre-approved ADU.
Inside Bend’s First Pre-Approved ADU
Open-Concept, Efficient Layout
This ADU features a smart, open-concept design that maximizes comfort within a compact footprint. The layout creates clear zones for living, sleeping, and cooking while maintaining a natural flow and sense of openness.
What We Learned from This Project
Our Larkspur Pre-Approved ADU is now one of the most-viewed projects on our website. It shows that pre-approved does not mean cookie-cutter. With thoughtful finishes, smart design decisions, and an experienced Bend ADU builder, these homes can feel intentional and tailored to their site.
This project reinforced our belief in innovative housing solutions that balance efficiency with livability. Bend’s Pre-Approved ADU Program is a meaningful step toward expanding attainable housing, and we’re proud to have helped lead the way.
More Than ADUs
Can Pre-Approved Plans Be Used for Single-Family Homes?
Yes.
The City of Bend’s pre-approved plans can also be used to build smaller, standalone single-family homes. These designs may be a good fit for cottage clusters or compact primary residences, offering a faster and more cost-effective path to construction without compromising quality or design.
Supporting Bend’s Housing Future
At Sierra James Construction, we support the City of Bend’s efforts to expand diverse housing options. ADUs and small-footprint homes provide flexibility, long-term value, and attainable solutions for Bend homeowners. Pre-approved plans make the process even more accessible.
We look forward to seeing more designs added to the City’s plan library and helping homeowners take advantage of these opportunities. Whether you’re planning a backyard rental, housing for family members, or a creative use of your property, our team is here to guide you through the ADU building process from start to finish.
Interested in building a pre-approved ADU or small single-family home in Bend?
Contact Sierra James Construction. We’d love to help bring your project to life.