Research Checklist - Recreational Vehicle (RV) Rental Dwelling

Summary

Effective May 7, recreational vehicles are permitted as rental dwellings in unincorporated Deschutes County, subject to certain conditions. This page is provided as a guide for applicants to determine eligibility and the requirements necessary to establish an RV rental dwelling. For frequently asked questions, scroll to the bottom of the page. For additional questions, contact Planning Division staff at (541) 388-6560.

Note that properties within any city limits are governed by the zoning code of those cities and not those of unincorporated Deschutes County. Customers seeking to establish RVs in Bend, Redmond, Sisters, or La Pine should contact the planning departments of their respective city.

Basic RV Rental Dwelling Requirements:

• Zoning: RR-10, MUA, UAR-10, SR 2 ½, WTZ
• Minimum acreage: 2 acres, except for areas of South County that require 5-acre minimum (see below for details)
• The property must contain a single-family dwelling that is occupied as the primary residence of the property owner
• The RV cannot be used as a short-term rental
• The RV must have a working toilet and sink
• The property owner must provide essential services to the recreational vehicle space, which are defined as sewage disposal, water supply, and electrical supply

The full requirements for RVs as rental dwellings are located in Deschutes County Code Chapter 18.116.065 for RR-10 and MUA-zoned properties and DCC 19.92.170 for UAR-10, SR-2 ½, and WTZ

Step 1 – Preliminary Requirements

1. Verify your property is 2 acres or more, or if you’re in the South Deschutes County area verify that your property is 5 acres or more.  See the RV 5-Acre Minimum Map located here: ADU & RV 5 Acre Minimum 
2. Verify the property is located in one of the following zones: RR-10,MUA-10, UAR-10, SR-2/12 AND WTZ. Retrieve the Summary Property Report to view the zoning and acreage of your property located here: CDD Summary Report
3. Verify water supply. For non-well users, obtain a Will Serve letter.
4. Verify Fire Protection District Adequate Access and RV Driveway Access Requirements (different than Driveway Permit)

Step 2 – Permitting & Other Requirements

• Onsite
  • Onsite Authorization Permit
• Planning
  • Planning RV Permit
  • Property owners, or their authorized representatives, can submit a land use application in one of three ways. Learn more about it here.
• Onsite
  • Onsite Permit (New Installation) – If applicable
• Driveway Access
  • Driveway Permit - If there is not an approved Driveway Permit for your property, you will be required to apply for a Driveway Permit. This is applicable for 1 & 2 Family Dwelling and Structures.
• Building
  • Electrical and Plumbing Permits 

Upon approval of above permits, complete the following:

• Construct RV Pad 
• Establish 20-foot Radius of Noncombustible Groundcover  

Step 3 – Ongoing Requirements 

• Rental Agreement Required 
• RV Ownership & Title Information Required 
• Proof of RV with a Toilet & Sink Required 
• Maintenance of Noncombustible Groundcover