
1998 Urban Growth Boundary Decision
In 1998, the Oregon Supreme Court upheld the state's Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) policy, which is designed to control urban sprawl by limiting where cities can expand. This decision affirmed that cities must manage land use within defined boundaries to protect farm and forest land from development. The ruling emphasized the importance of planning for growth sustainably, ensuring that communities develop in a way that preserves natural resources and livability. This policy serves as a model for other regions seeking to balance urban development with environmental protection.