Sherwood Updating Annexation Code

The City of Sherwood has proposed new design standards and criteria for land brought into city limits through Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) expansions. These updates are intended to ensure development is well-integrated, infrastructure-ready, and aligned with long-term community goals. HBA provided input to City Council requesting more clarity on the level of analysis required to complete an annexation application along with clear timelines and criteria around when Council will schedule a complete application for an approval hearing.

Key components of the policy include:

• Annexation Process Codified: New Chapter 16.81 outlines procedures for annexation, requiring compliance with state law (ORS 222), Metro Code, and Sherwood’s Comprehensive Plan. It also mandates that public infrastructure be available or financially assured before development proceeds.
• Automatic Zoning at Annexation: Properties annexed into the city will receive zoning based on Sherwood’s existing Zoning Map, eliminating the need for separate zone change procedures unless the applicant requests it.
• Annexation Agreements Required: Most annexation applications must include an agreement specifying intended land use, phasing, infrastructure needs, and a transportation analysis. Agreements help ensure developments align with the city’s utility and parks plans and don't outpace infrastructure capacity.
• Clear Mitigation Standards: Developers must show how impacts to sewer, water, stormwater, and roads will be addressed, including funding sources. If development requires city funds, those must be approved by Council in advance.
• Legal Protections for Existing Uses: Non-conforming uses approved under county jurisdiction prior to annexation may continue post-annexation under specific conditions