City Council Considering Car Wash Code Changes

Published on September 26, 2025

Medford City Council will soon review potential code changes related to car wash development. To date, about 20 car wash sites have either been built or approved within city limits.

The City first updated its development code in 2023 to better manage the location and design of car washes. Those changes prohibited car washes in the Neighborhood Commercial zoning district and added requirements for sites located near residential neighborhoods. Standards include stronger landscaping and buffering, restrictions on lighting and signage, and limits on the number of vehicle-oriented businesses allowed on a single property.

Council is now interested in taking a broader look at how car wash uses fit into Medford’s long-term growth plans. Upcoming work will include:

Reviewing whether to restrict car-oriented businesses, including car washes, within the Downtown boundary as part of Downtown Plan implementation.
Beginning in 2026, developing additional code options that could further restrict where car washes may be built citywide.

Any proposed changes will be reviewed by the Site Plan and Architectural Commission, Planning Commission, and ultimately the City Council before adoption. This process ensures community input and careful consideration before new rules are finalized.