Oregon is not meeting its goals to reduce climate pollution. Governor Brown issued Executive Order 20-04 in March 2020, which directs many state agencies to address climate change in a variety of very specific ways. Transportation accounts for 38% of Oregon’s greenhouse gas pollution. Land use patterns can impact climate pollution by offering transportation, housing, and employment choices in walkable, bikeable, and transit-accessible locations, reducing reliance on vehicles.
In 2022, the Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) passed Climate-Friendly and Equitable Community (CFEC) rules that require cities over 5,000 to create more accessible mixed-use and walkable areas, called “Climate Friendly Areas”, to lower carbon emissions, especially by reducing the need to drive.
Climate-Friendly Areas (CFAs) are places where people can live, work, and meet many of their daily needs without driving. These areas offer a mix of housing, businesses, and amenities accessible by bike, transit, and on foot. The goals are to expand housing and transportation choices while creating vibrant, connected neighborhoods.
Climate-Friendly Areas Adoption
On May 23, 2025, Ordinance 6062, which adopted six Climate Friendly Area (CFA) overlay zoning districts throughout the city and associated standards, went into effect. The climate-friendly rules require certain uses within CFAs and additional standards to ensure pedestrian-friendliness. See Albany Development Code Article 14, which includes maps of each CFA and uses and standards specific to development in the CFAs.
CFA Background Information
Parking Reform Adopted
Parking reform was the first phase of CFEC rule compliance. Effective July 1, 2023, the city no longer requires parking for any development. Parking maximums were established, bicycle parking standards were updated, large parking lot standards were adopted, and EV charging capacity requirements for apartments with five or more units were put in place on July 1, 2023. Over time, parking lots will have more tree canopies, bicycle parking, and electric vehicle charging.
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