Oregon Construction Contractors (CCB) Practice Test

What does a "zero-lot-line dwelling" refer to?

1. An apartment complex

2. A single family dwelling unit in a group of attached units

3. A duplex

4. A home on a lot less than 4000 sq. ft.

The correct answer is: A single family dwelling unit in a group of attached units

A "zero-lot-line dwelling" refers to a single-family dwelling unit that is typically part of a group of attached units. This type of development involves homes being built very close together, often sharing one or more walls with adjacent units, which allows them to be constructed right up to the property line. The design maximizes land use, often resulting in smaller yards or outdoor spaces. In contrast, options such as an apartment complex or duplex do not precisely fit this definition. While an apartment complex consists of multiple units, it does not specifically describe a single-family dwelling. A duplex is a residential building that accommodates two separate housing units but does not have the same characteristics of a zero-lot-line dwelling where units are often designed as part of a larger, cohesive neighborhood layout. Finally, a home on a lot less than 4,000 sq. ft. is more indicative of legal zoning requirements rather than the configuration of the dwelling itself. Therefore, the term "zero-lot-line dwelling" is best described as a single-family unit in a group of attached homes.