Counties apply forest zoning to forestlands protected under Statewide Planning Goal 4. Forest zoning is based on local comprehensive plans, which are adopted in accordance with state requirements.
Forest zoning seeks to retain forestland for commercial forest operations and natural functions such as wildlife habitat. This is accomplished by establishing large minimum lot sizes, which are typically 80 acres. That is, a parcel smaller than 160 acres generally cannot be divided into smaller units. Large lot sizes help prevent the division of forestlands into smaller parcels which cannot sustain commercial forest activities.
Forest zoning also helps prevent the establishment of uses that are incompatible with forest operations. Forest practices such as harvesting, spraying pesticides, and burning are critical for tree stock. Widespread development of residences and other non-forestry uses may result in increased complaints about forest practices. Forest zoning helps ensure that commercial forest activities can continue to operate and expand by limiting the types and intensity of uses allowed.
Some uses that are not related to forestry can be developed in a forest zone such as campgrounds, hunting and fishing accommodations, and fire stations. It is necessary to evaluate whether these uses will significantly change or increase the cost of forest practices. Also any increase in the threat of fire hazard, fire suppression costs, or the wellbeing of firefighters needs to be considered.
Oregon law spells out the standards and processes to approve development in forest zones (ORS 215 and OAR Chapter 660, Division 6).