Medford, Oregon- Medford City Council is preparing to review new code changes that could place tighter limits on where car washes and other car-oriented businesses can operate in the city.
So far, about 20 car wash sites have been built or approved within city limits. In 2023, the city updated its development code to better manage location and design standards for the facilities, prohibiting them in the Neighborhood Commercial zoning district and adding rules for projects near residential areas. Those standards included stronger landscaping, lighting and signage restrictions, and limits on the number of vehicle-focused businesses allowed on a single property.
City officials say the council now wants to take a broader look at how car washes fit into Medford’s long-term growth plans. The review will include studying whether to restrict car-oriented businesses, including car washes, within the downtown boundary as part of the city’s Downtown Plan.
Beginning in 2026, the city also plans to draft additional code options that could further restrict where new car washes may be built across Medford.
Any proposed changes will be subject to public review by the Site Plan and Architectural Commission, Planning Commission and City Council before a final vote.
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