A Health Impact Assessment of Accessory Dwelling Unit Policies in Rural Benton County, Oregon

Abstract

This study uses the Health Impact Assessment approach to determine the health impacts of allowing accessory dwelling units in Benton County, Oregon. A literature review presents the health benefits of accessory dwelling units in urban areas and identifies the potential negative health effects in rural areas. Five accessory dwelling units policy options, ranging from restricting currently permitted uses to allowing construction of a complete accessory unit, are assessed by measuring community health indicators. The indicators measure impacts related to the issues of healthy housing, access to goods and services, social and family cohesion, and transportation and mobility. Quantitative data from a variety of sources are collected to measure the health indicators. Qualitative data from focus groups, and advisory panel, and local health and planning professionals are collected to measure the indicators where quantitative data is not available. This study provides policy recommendations for which assessed policy option will have the greatest positive benefit to health in the unincorporated areas of Benton County. Conclusions include the successes and limitations of applying the Health Impact Assessment approach to the issue of accessory dwelling units in a rural setting.