ORS § 609.095 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.095
609.095 Dog as public nuisance
Status: in_force

(1) A dog is a public nuisance if it:

(a) Chases persons or vehicles on premises other than premises from which the keeper of the dog may lawfully exclude others;

(b) Damages or destroys property of persons other than the keeper of the dog;

(c) Scatters garbage on premises other than premises from which the keeper of the dog may lawfully exclude others;

(d) Trespasses on private property of persons other than the keeper of the dog;

(e) Disturbs any person by frequent or prolonged noises;

(f) Is a female in heat and running at large; or

(g) Is a potentially dangerous dog, but is not a dangerous dog as defined in ORS 609.098 (Maintaining dangerous dog) .

(2) The keeper of a dog in a county or city that is subject to ORS 609.030 (Establishing dog control district) and 609.035 (Definitions for ORS 609.035 to 609.110 and 609.990) to 609.110 (Dog License Fund) maintains a public nuisance if the dog commits an act described under subsection (1) of this section. Maintaining a dog that is a public nuisance is a violation.

(3) A keeper of a dog maintains a public nuisance if the keeper fails to comply with reasonable restrictions imposed under ORS 609.990 (Penalties for ORS 609.060, 609.095, 609.098, 609.100, 609.169 and 609.405) or if a keeper fails to provide acceptable proof of compliance to the court on or before the 10th day after issuance of the order imposing the restrictions. If the court finds the proof submitted by the keeper unacceptable, the court shall send notice of that finding to the keeper no later than five days after the proof is received.

(4) Any person who has cause to believe a keeper is maintaining a dog that is a public nuisance may complain, either orally or in writing, to the county or city. The receipt of any complaint is sufficient cause for the county or city to investigate the matter and determine whether the keeper of the dog is in violation of subsection (2) or (3) of this section. [1973 c.655 §2; 1977 c.802 §7; 1999 c.658 §8; 1999 c.756 §18; 2001 c.636 §9; 2001 c.926 §15; 2005 c.840 §7; 2011 c.607 §16]

Source: Section 609.095 — Dog as public nuisance; public nuisance prohibited; complaint , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.230 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.230
596.230 Duties of deputy veterinarians
Status: in_force

(1) Deputy state veterinarians shall assist the State Department of Agriculture in carrying out the duties imposed upon it by any law of this state when requested to do so by the State Veterinarian. Within the scope of the authority delegated to them by the State Veterinarian, deputy state veterinarians shall possess the powers and authority conferred upon regularly employed state veterinarians by any law of this state. Deputy state veterinarians, when carrying out the duties assigned to them, are subject to the direction and control of the State Veterinarian.

(2) Only deputy state veterinarians are eligible for approval by the department for the performance of duties requiring the services of a veterinarian by any law of this state, the administration of which is vested in the department.

Source: Section 596.230 — Duties of deputy veterinarians , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.345 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.345
609.345 Exceptions to permit requirement
Status: in_force

(1) The requirements for a permit in ORS 609.335 (Department rules regulating keeping of exotic animals) and 609.341 (Permit requirement for keeping of exotic animal) do not apply to the following:

(a) A wildlife rehabilitation center operated under a valid permit issued by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission pursuant to ORS 497.308 (Wildlife holding and habitat removal permits) .

(b) A facility operated under a valid license or research facility registration issued by the United States Department of Agriculture pursuant to the federal Animal Welfare Act of 1970 (7 U.S.C. 2133 or 2136).

(c) An exotic animal protection organization, including humane societies and animal shelters, incorporated under ORS chapter 65, that houses an exotic animal at the written request of the state or a state agency for a period not to exceed 30 days.

(d) A law enforcement agency.

(e) A licensed veterinary hospital or clinic.

(f) An educational facility that houses a member of the order Crocodylia pursuant to a written request of the state, a local government or a state agency stating the need to house the member of the order Crocodylia at the educational facility.

(g) A person or organization that takes in an exotic animal in an emergency situation but that does not otherwise qualify for an exemption under this section. The person or organization may keep the exotic animal for not more than 48 hours during which time the person or organization must make a good faith effort to contact a law enforcement agency, the State Department of Agriculture or a wildlife rehabilitation center described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.

(h) A person with a disability as defined in 42 U.S.C. 12102(2)(A) who possesses a service monkey if:

(A) The person presents, at the request of the State Department of Agriculture, written proof from a physician licensed under ORS 677.100 (Qualifications of applicant for license) to 677.228 (Automatic lapse of license for failure to pay registration fee or report change of location) that the person has a disability and that the service monkey performs specific tasks for the benefit of the person with the disability;

(B) The service monkey was obtained from, and trained at, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities; and

(C) The person complies with any requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act relating to service animals.

(2) As used in subsection (1)(h) of this section, “service monkey” means a nonhuman primate of the genus Cebus that is trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability. [Formerly 609.315; 2017 c.409 §17]

Source: Section 609.345 — Exceptions to permit requirement , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 604.992 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 604 / Section 604.992
604.992 Penalties
Status: in_force

(1) Violation of any of the provisions of this chapter, or the administrative rules or orders promulgated thereunder, is a Class B misdemeanor.

(2) Notwithstanding ORS 14.030 (Jurisdiction as affected by place where cause of action or suit arises) to 14.080 (Venue for other actions) , an action for violation of brand inspection requirements may be commenced and tried in either the county where the cattle movement originated or the county where the cattle movement terminated. [1967 c.129 §18; 1981 c.248 §15; 2007 c.229 §5]

Source: Section 604.992 — Penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors604.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.815 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.815
609.815 On-site individuals for locations where numerous dogs are kept
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section, “dog” means a member of the subspecies Canis lupus familiaris or a hybrid of that subspecies.

(2) A person that possesses, controls or otherwise has charge of at the same time 75 or more dogs shall have one or more individuals on site for at least eight hours each day to care for the dogs. The ratio between dogs and on-site individuals may not be more than 75 dogs to one individual. [2009 c.297 §3]

Source: Section 609.815 — On-site individuals for locations where numerous dogs are kept , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 600.150 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 600 / Section 600.150
600.150 Prohibition against restrictive confinement
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section:

(a) “Pig” means a porcine animal of a type maintained as livestock.

(b) “Turning around freely” means having the ability to turn in a complete circle in an enclosure without an impediment, including a tether, and without touching any side of the enclosure.

(2) A person commits the offense of restrictive confinement of a pregnant pig if the person confines a pregnant pig for more than 12 hours during any 24-hour period in a manner that prevents the pregnant pig from:

(a) Lying down and fully extending its limbs; or

(b) Turning around freely.

(3) Subsection (2) of this section does not apply to a pregnant pig:

(a) That is being transported;

(b) In a rodeo exhibition, a state or county fair exhibition or a similar exhibition;

(c) During the slaughtering process;

(d) During lawful scientific or agricultural research;

(e) During an examination, operation or test by a veterinarian or during temporary treatment for veterinary purposes; or

(f) In the seven-day period before the pig farrows.

(4) The offense of restrictive confinement of a pregnant pig is a Class A violation. [2007 c.722 §1]

Source: Section 600.150 — Prohibition against restrictive confinement , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors600.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.495 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.495
599.495 Cooperative agreements with federal government under which state department carries out federal programs in livestock auction markets and stockyards
Status: in_force

(1) The State Department of Agriculture may enter into cooperative agreements or contracts with any agency or department of the federal government whereby the State Department of Agriculture may:

(a) Assume authority and administrative responsibility over the operations of livestock auction markets or stockyards, including but not limited to federal posted yards which are under the authority and responsibility of the federal government.

(b) Assume and carry out the program, procedures, services and work being done or to be done by the federal agency or federal department in Oregon to eradicate and to prevent the spread of brucellosis, tuberculosis, paratuberculosis or other infectious, contagious, communicable or dangerous diseases in livestock auction markets or stockyards or the animals handled by such markets or yards.

(2) The State Department of Agriculture may contract with or enter into agreements with the agencies or departments of the federal government referred to in subsection (1) of this section to receive funds which shall be deposited with the State Treasurer to be paid out and used by the State Department of Agriculture in carrying out the provisions of any Oregon law and of the Act of Congress under which the money is paid in accordance with the terms of the contract or agreement. Such funds are continuously appropriated for the purpose of carrying out this chapter in accordance with the terms of the contract or agreement. [1957 c.390 §21; 1967 c.637 §19]

Source: Section 599.495 — Cooperative agreements with federal government under which state department carries out federal programs in livestock auction markets and stockyards , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.251 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.251
599.251 Procedure on licensee’s default as to condition of bond
Status: in_force

(1) Upon default of a licensee as to any condition of the bond required by ORS 599.245 (Licensee’s bond) , the State Department of Agriculture shall:

(a) Give reasonable notice to persons to file claims with the department.

(b) Fix a reasonable time within which such filing shall be done.

(c) Investigate each claim so filed and reasonably verify the circumstances under which the claims accrued and the good faith of the claimants.

(2) With the approval of the claimants who filed claims, the department may settle such claims with the surety, without filing legal action. Such settlement unless appealed to the circuit court within 30 days as provided by law, is final between the surety and all claimants covered by the bond.

(3) If any claimant, or the surety, does not agree with the findings of the department, the department shall file a declaratory judgment action without right to jury trial in the circuit court in the name of the State of Oregon for the benefit of the claimants as authorized by ORS chapter 28. Unless appealed as prescribed by law, the order of the court shall be final between the surety and all claimants covered by the bond. [1961 c.283 §3; 1979 c.284 §178]

Source: Section 599.251 — Procedure on licensee’s default as to condition of bond , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.158 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.158
609.158 Hearing process
Status: in_force

(1) A hearing may be conducted and a determination whether a dog has killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock may be made by the county governing body or any members thereof, the dog control board or any members thereof or a county hearings officer.

(2) Notwithstanding ORS 9.160 (Bar membership required to practice law) and 9.320 (Necessity for employment of attorney) , the county may choose to be represented at the hearing by any employee of the county. If the employee is not an attorney, the employee shall not present legal argument, examine or cross-examine witnesses, present rebuttal evidence or give legal advice to the governing body, dog control board or hearings officer conducting the hearing.

(3) The person presiding at the hearing shall ensure that the record developed at the hearing shows a full and fair inquiry into the facts necessary to determine the matter alleged. A determination made by a county following a hearing must be upon consideration of the whole record and supported by reliable, probative and substantial evidence.

(4) The county shall notify the dog owner of its determination and of any civil penalties or other measures imposed by delivering or mailing a copy to the dog owner or, if applicable, the attorney of the dog owner.

(5) If a hearing is not conducted by a majority of the county governing body, the owner may request that the county governing body reexamine the determination. If the county governing body does not grant the request for reexamination within 14 days, the request shall be deemed denied. A county governing body may not reexamine a determination if a petition for judicial review of the determination has been filed. [1999 c.756 §3]

Source: Section 609.158 — Hearing process; notice of determination; reexamination of determination , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.411 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.411
609.411 Preemption of ORS 609.410
Status: in_force

Federal requirements supersede any inconsistent provisions of ORS 609.410 (Disposition of dogs and cats by research facility) to the extent of the inconsistency. [2019 c.374 §2]

Source: Section 609.411 — Preemption of ORS 609.410 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.024 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.024
607.024 Action on livestock district application
Status: in_force

(1) No later than 30 days after closing of the record for a hearing under ORS 607.018 (Livestock district creation or annexation) , the county governing body shall take action on the application that was the subject of the hearing. The county governing body may deny the application or may conditionally approve the application.

(2) An applicant for the formation of a livestock district may, not later than 90 days after the county governing body conditionally approves the application, submit a petition signed by a majority of the landowners of record within the proposed livestock district. If the county governing body has conditionally approved the application and receives a petition under this subsection, the county governing body shall declare the livestock district established. If the county governing body does not receive a petition as described in this subsection, notwithstanding any conditional approval the county governing body shall deny the application for the proposed livestock district.

(3) An applicant for the annexation of land to an existing livestock district may, not later than 90 days after the county governing body conditionally approves the application, submit a petition signed by a majority of the landowners of record within the livestock district and a majority of the landowners within the area proposed for annexation to the district. If the county governing body has conditionally approved the application and receives a petition under this subsection, the county governing body shall declare the land annexed to the livestock district. If the county governing body does not receive a petition as described in this subsection, notwithstanding any conditional approval the county governing body shall deny the application for annexation.

(4) If an application is denied under subsections (1) to (3) of this section, an application filed less than 12 months after the denial may not include any of the same land as the denied application. [2019 c.450 §4]

Source: Section 607.024 — Action on livestock district application , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.051 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.051
607.051 Status of districts designated by order of State Department of Agriculture
Status: in_force

The livestock districts designated by order of the State Department of Agriculture under section 33, chapter 604, Oregon Laws 1957, shall be subject in all respects to the provisions of ORS 607.005 (Definitions) to 607.045 (Livestock at large in livestock districts) . [1957 c.604 §37]

Source: Section 607.051 — Status of districts designated by order of State Department of Agriculture , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.021 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.021
607.021 Livestock district characteristics
Status: in_force

(1) A livestock district must contain at least 2,000 acres.

(2) A livestock district may not cross the boundaries of a county. Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, the boundaries of a livestock district must follow subdivision lines of sections, section lines, township lines, donation land claim boundaries or lines, lakes, rivers, the boundary line of this state, public roads or county boundary lines.

(3) The boundary of an established livestock district may be used as a boundary for a proposed livestock district if the districts are adjacent to each other and will have a common boundary line.

(4) An area may be annexed to an existing livestock district only if the annexed area is contiguous with the livestock district and the district boundaries after annexation will meet the requirements in subsection (2) of this section. [2019 c.450 §3]

Source: Section 607.021 — Livestock district characteristics , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.305 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.305
609.305 “Exotic animal” defined
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 609.305 (“Exotic animal” defined) to 609.355 (Issuance of permit upon lapse of federal license or registration) and 609.992 (Penalties for ORS 609.341) , “exotic animal” means:

(1) Any member of the family Felidae not indigenous to Oregon, except the species Felis catus (domestic cat);

(2) Any nonhuman primate;

(3) Any nonwolf member of the family Canidae not indigenous to Oregon, except the species Canis familiaris (domestic dog);

(4) Any bear, except the black bear (Ursus americanus); and

(5) Any member of the order Crocodylia. [1985 c.437 §2; 1999 c.699 §3; 2009 c.492 §1]

Source: Section 609.305 — “Exotic animal” defined , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.640 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.640
599.640 Compliance with ORS 599.610 and 599.620 required
Status: repealed

No person shall violate the provisions of ORS 599.610 (License requirements) and 599.620 (Enforcement and regulations) or the regulations promulgated thereunder. No person other than a licensee of a livestock auction market or stockyard as provided by ORS 599.235 (License fee) and 599.401 (Livestock auction market license required) shall operate an establishment, place of business, or conduct a sale to which the public may consign or permit horses to be sold by auction open to public bidding, without first obtaining a temporary horse sale license as authorized by ORS 599.610 (License requirements) . [1959 c.63 §5; 1971 c.578 §18]

599.700 [1987 c.239 §2; repealed by 1991 c.376 §1]

599.710 [1987 c.239 §3; repealed by 1991 c.376 §1]

599.720 [1987 c.239 §4; repealed by 1991 c.376 §1]

599.730 [1987 c.239 §5; 1989 c.171 §73; repealed by 1991 c.376 §1]

599.740 [1987 c.239 §6; repealed by 1991 c.376 §1]

Source: Section 599.640 — Compliance with ORS 599.610 and 599.620 required , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 604.046 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 604 / Section 604.046
604.046 Brand inspection and certificate requirements
Status: in_force

(1) Brand inspection and the issuance of a brand inspection certificate is required in this state for:

(a) Cattle to be transported from any place in this state to or through any place outside of this state;

(b) Cattle to be transported from any place in this state to a range or pastureland outside of this state and destined to be ultimately returned to this state;

(c) Except as provided in subsection (5)(b) of this section, cattle destined for sale or slaughter at any livestock auction market or other sales facility or slaughterhouse in this state, and prior to such sale or slaughter; and

(d) Except as provided in subsection (5)(a) of this section, cattle transported from any place outside of this state to any livestock auction market or other sales facility or slaughterhouse in this state for sale within this state.

(2) Brand inspection may be performed, upon request of the owner or person in possession of livestock, at either a regular brand inspection location or a place designated by the person requesting the brand inspection. The State Department of Agriculture may require payment of its time and travel costs as a condition to performing the brand inspection. The department may also assess and collect a service fee, not to exceed $35.

(3) In addition to brand inspections under subsections (1) and (2) of this section, the department may establish and carry out a system of brand inspection at the times and places as an intrastate, regional movement of cattle takes place, or as a change of ownership takes place. In establishing any system authorized by this subsection, the department shall consider the customs, practices and theft or ownership problems of the cattle industry, the economic feasibility of carrying out a system, the volume of cattle movement within the state or within specific areas of the state, the laws and regulations of the United States and the desirability for a system as evidenced by a majority of persons who would be affected by the system. Such a system, established in accordance with the provisions of ORS chapter 183, may include:

(a) That the brand inspection may be in addition to or in lieu of other brand inspections required or allowed by this chapter and the circumstances or conditions under which the alternatives shall be allowed;

(b) The times and places the brand inspection shall take place in relation to the time of movement or location change, or the change of ownership;

(c) The establishment of a brand inspection fee and the person responsible for payment thereof;

(d) The establishment of geographic, regional or political areas within the state in which brand inspection is required; and

(e) The circumstances or conditions under which an exemption from or modification of the system’s requirements may be allowed, considering their feasibility in relation to movement or sale of minimum numbers of cattle.

(4) In addition to brand inspections under subsections (1) to (3) of this section, the department may inspect any hides or livestock at any time, and at any public or private place, building or livestock carrier, if there is a need to identify diseased or suspected diseased livestock, or if the department reasonably suspects that any provisions of this chapter, the administrative rules adopted under this chapter or any criminal laws relating to the possession of livestock, are being violated. This authority is in addition to any authority granted police officers, the department’s brand inspectors, livestock police officers and investigative officers under ORS 133.525 (Definitions for ORS 133.525 to 133.703) to 133.703 (Identity of informants) relating to search and seizures. The department may undertake any of the actions described in ORS 604.056 (Seizure of hides or livestock) (1) if:

(a) An inspection results in a finding that a brand inspection certificate accompanying the hides or livestock is false, erroneous or incomplete in any material respect;

(b) There is a question whether the person in possession of the hides or livestock is the owner or a lawful possessor; or

(c) The person in possession of the livestock fails to submit evidence requested under ORS 604.051 (Method of proof of ownership) (1).

(5) In lieu of the brand inspection and the issuance of a brand inspection certificate required by subsection (1) of this section:

(a) Cattle that are transported to any slaughterhouse in this state from any place outside this state, if entering this state may be accompanied by a brand inspection certificate or similar document issued by the other state, provided that such other state has brand inspection comparable to the inspection of this state; or

(b) Cattle, in lots not to exceed 15 head, presented by one person for slaughter at a slaughterhouse may be accompanied by a special slaughterhouse certificate issued by the department for which a fee, equal to the brand inspection fee established by the department under ORS 604.066 (Brand inspection fee) (2), has been paid.

(6) Brand inspection at slaughtering establishments or other facilities where cattle are slaughtered or cattle hides are received, may be required of cattle hides under a system established by the department in accordance with the provisions of ORS chapter 183. In establishing any system authorized by this subsection, the department shall consider theft or ownership problems associated with slaughtered cattle, the economic feasibility of carrying out the system, the attitudes of the affected members of the cattle industry of this state, the volume of slaughtered cattle within the state or within specific areas of the state, and the laws and regulations of the United States. Any system established under this subsection may include:

(a) The designation of geographic, regional or political areas within the state in which cattle hide inspection is required;

(b) The use of tags, stamps or other devices evidencing ownership of the cattle slaughtered; and

(c) The methods, locations and times for cattle hide inspection.

(7) By written agreement with the appropriate agencies in the States of California, Nevada, Idaho or Washington, the department may recognize brand inspections performed in any of such other states in lieu of the brand inspections required by this chapter. Any such agreement shall provide that recognition of brand inspections of any such other state shall be effective only while brand inspections performed pursuant to this chapter are recognized in such other state. [1981 c.248 §9; 1983 c.102 §1; 1985 c.262 §2; 1987 c.348 §1; 1991 c.660 §3; 2007 c.229 §2; 2021 c.563 §3]

Source: Section 604.046 — Brand inspection and certificate requirements; service fee; inspection system; reciprocity between states , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors604.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.300 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.300
607.300 Determining adequacy of fences
Status: in_force

If cattle or equines break through a fence on the open range and a determination of the adequacy of the fence is necessary in order to determine whether the cattle or equines are estray animals, the State Department of Agriculture shall make the determination of the adequacy of the fence and shall consider, among other things, the customs and practices of good animal husbandry in the particular area with reference to fences. The department may adopt rules establishing fees for determining the adequacy of a fence. Fees must be reasonably calculated to compensate the department for the costs of the determination. [1971 c.579 §3; 2009 c.336 §2]

Source: Section 607.300 — Determining adequacy of fences; rules; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.166 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.166
609.166 Record of penalized owners
Status: in_force

(1) When a civil penalty is assessed against a dog owner under ORS 609.162 (Guidelines for imposing remedial measures, civil penalties or other sanctions) or 609.163 (Enhanced civil penalties for habitual violators) , the county shall supply the State Department of Agriculture with information identifying the dog owner. The department shall supply the counties with forms for recording the information.

(2) The department shall maintain the record of a penalized dog owner for a reasonable period and shall make the record available to any county upon request.

(3) The county and the department may charge reasonable fees to the dog owner to cover the cost of conducting and administering the dog owner information program. [1999 c.756 §8]

Source: Section 609.166 — Record of penalized owners , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.344 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.344
607.344 “Freshly branded” defined for ORS 607.345 to 607.360
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 607.345 (Interfering with calves and colts on open range) to 607.360 (Applicability of statutes regulating handling of calves and colts) , “freshly branded” means any animal on which there is a brand that has not been peeled off or entirely healed. [Formerly 607.305]

Source: Section 607.344 — “Freshly branded” defined for ORS 607.345 to 607.360 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 604.027 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 604 / Section 604.027
604.027 Application to record brand
Status: in_force

(1) A person desiring to record a brand on any species of livestock shall submit a written and signed application therefor to the State Department of Agriculture, setting forth a facsimile and description of the brand, the species of livestock upon which it will be used and the specific intended location on the animal. The application must be accompanied by a brand recording fee of $25 for each brand on each species of livestock on which the brand is to be used. The person must also pay an activation fee matching the cycle set for the approved brand under subsection (4) of this section prior to recordation of the brand. The activation fee may not exceed $100. Upon receipt of an application and the required fees, if the department determines that the brand applied for is available, the department shall issue a certificate of recordation of the distinctive brand, the approved location on the animal and the species of livestock to which it applies.

(2) During September of each year the department shall attempt to notify all holders of an expiring recorded brand of the need to renew the brand. The department shall attempt the notification by sending a renewal notice to the holder’s last address as shown on the department’s records. The holder of a recorded brand may renew the brand by submitting to the department a brand renewal fee for each brand on each species of livestock on which the brand is to be used. The brand renewal fee may not exceed $100. However, if the species of livestock is sheep, the fee may not exceed $50.

(3) A recorded brand expires if the department does not receive the brand renewal fee by January 4 next following the attempt to notify the brand holder of the need to renew the brand. Within 60 days after a brand expires, the department shall give written notice of the expiration by mail addressed to the person who held the expired brand at the last address shown on the department’s records. The fee to activate an expired brand is equal to the brand recording fee plus a renewal fee. If the person fails to activate the expired brand within one year after expiration of the brand, the brand is considered abandoned and any person may apply for recordation and use of that brand.

(4) When issuing or renewing a brand recordation, the department shall adjust certificate expiration dates as necessary to ensure that an approximately equal number of brand recordation expire in each year of a four-year cycle. The department shall prorate a brand renewal fee to reflect an adjustment of a certificate expiration date.

(5) The department shall establish the amount of brand activation fees and brand renewal fees by rule. [1981 c.248 §5; 1985 c.262 §1; 1991 c.660 §2; 2003 c.575 §1; 2021 c.563 §1]

Source: Section 604.027 — Application to record brand; certification; renewal; fees; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors604.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.312 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.312
609.312 Seller to provide buyer with informational material
Status: in_force

A person who sells an exotic animal must, prior to accepting the offer to purchase, provide the prospective purchaser of the exotic animal with informational material approved by the State Department of Agriculture regarding the care, husbandry, health and nutritional needs of the exotic animal. This section does not allow the sale of an exotic animal to a person located in this state other than an entity described in ORS 609.345 (Exceptions to permit requirement) . [1999 c.699 §2; 2009 c.492 §3]

Source: Section 609.312 — Seller to provide buyer with informational material , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.410 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.410
609.410 Disposition of dogs and cats by research facility
Status: in_force

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) A research facility that uses dogs or cats for laboratory research, before euthanizing a dog or cat that is no longer needed for research purposes, shall offer the dog or cat for adoption, provided that euthanizing the dog or cat is not required for health or safety reasons or is not necessary to complete laboratory research.

(b) The research facility shall use a veterinarian or similarly qualified staff to determine whether the dog or cat is healthy and safe for adoption.

(c) The research facility may consider and determine if other animals used by the research facility are adoptable.

(d) To carry out the duties described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, a research facility may:

(A) Establish and maintain a private adoption process.

(B) Offer the dog or cat to an animal shelter approved by the research facility that is willing to accept the dog or cat, if the research facility is unable to place the dog or cat through its private adoption process.

(C) Enter into a written agreement with an animal shelter to facilitate the adoption process.

(2) A research facility that provides a dog or cat to an animal shelter pursuant to subsection (1) of this section is immune from civil liability for or resulting from the transfer of the dog or cat, provided that the research facility acted in good faith concerning the health and physical condition of the dog or cat.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Not later than December 31 of each year, all research facilities described in subsection (1) of this section that are not public bodies as defined in ORS 192.311 (Definitions for ORS 192.311 to 192.478) shall submit to the Secretary of State an annual report that includes the following information for the preceding year:

(A) The total number of dogs and cats owned by the research facility;

(B) The total number of dogs and cats that are used for research that is conducted at the facility;

(C) The total number of dogs and cats released to animal shelters for adoption;

(D) The name and address of each animal shelter to which a dog or cat was released; and

(E) The name and address of each animal shelter with which the research facility has entered into an agreement under subsection (1) of this section.

(b) Reports received by the Secretary of State under this subsection are confidential and exempt from disclosure under ORS 192.311 (Definitions for ORS 192.311 to 192.478) to 192.478 (Exemption for Judicial Department) except that the Secretary of State shall make the aggregate data available to the public upon request.

(4) As used in this section:

(a) “Animal shelter” means an organization or facility, in this or another state, that:

(A) Is maintained by or under contract with a state, county or city or is tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; and

(B) Is operated for the primary purpose of:

(i) Providing shelter and other care for lost, homeless or injured animals; or

(ii) Placing animals into permanent homes or rescue organizations.

(b) “Laboratory research” means research, tests or experiments conducted for educational, scientific, medical or experimental purposes.

(c) “Research facility” means any institution of higher education or any facility, whether privately or publicly owned, leased or operated, where laboratory research is performed. [2019 c.374 §1]

Source: Section 609.410 — Disposition of dogs and cats by research facility , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.395 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.395
599.395 Joint federal-state administration of chapter
Status: in_force

(1) In the discretion of the State Department of Agriculture, a federal department or agency may be authorized by the State Department of Agriculture to act as its agent in carrying out all or part of the provisions of this chapter and regulations promulgated under this chapter without further requirement if it appears to the State Department of Agriculture that this chapter may be more effectively administered by joint federal and state action.

(2) When a federal department or agency is engaged in carrying out all or part of the provisions of this chapter and the regulations promulgated under this chapter pursuant to subsection (1) of this section:

(a) The authorized veterinary officers of the federal department or agency have the same power and authority as a deputy state veterinarian.

(b) The agents and other employees of the federal department or agency have the same power and authority as employees of the State Department of Agriculture engaged in a similar capacity or type of work. [1957 c.390 §22]

Source: Section 599.395 — Joint federal-state administration of chapter , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.405 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.405
609.405 Requirement for destroying dogs and cats
Status: in_force

(1) No city or county or any facility with which the city or county has contracted to perform animal control functions and no humane society shall cause a dog or cat to be destroyed except by lethal injection of sodium pentobarbital or other substance approved by the Oregon State Veterinary Medical Examining Board.

(2) If a particular dog or cat to be destroyed poses an imminent threat to human or animal life, making use of lethal injection of sodium pentobarbital inappropriate, a reasonable and appropriate alternative may be used. The alternative method may be subject to review by the Oregon State Veterinary Medical Examining Board. [1985 c.289 §2(1),(2)]

Source: Section 609.405 — Requirement for destroying dogs and cats , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.030 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.030
609.030 Establishing dog control district
Status: in_force

(1) The governing body of any county may declare the county a dog control district.

(2) Upon declaration of the dog control district the county governing body may appoint a board of supervisors, and provide for the terms, compensation and other aspects of service by board members, at least two of whom shall be connected directly or indirectly with the livestock industry.

(3) The board may issue licenses and enforce all of the county and state laws relating to the control of dogs within the county, including that of making arrests and shall perform such other duties as the county governing body may assign to it.

(4) The county governing body may elect to act as the board of supervisors of the dog control district.

(5) The county governing body may provide for appointment of a dog control officer and otherwise provide for administration and enforcement of a dog control program. [Amended by 1957 c.79 §1; 1963 c.398 §1; 1975 c.297 §1; 1977 c.189 §9]

Source: Section 609.030 — Establishing dog control district; appointment of supervisors; enforcement; county governing body as supervisors; dog control officer , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 601.070 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 601 / Section 601.070
601.070 Revocation or refusal to issue license
Status: in_force

Upon determining that any person licensed under ORS 601.050 (Investigation of place of business and applicant) or 601.080 (License for conveyance transporting dead animals) , or who has applied for a license under ORS 601.040 (Application for license and payment of fee) or 601.080 (License for conveyance transporting dead animals) , has violated, or failed to comply with any of the provisions of ORS 601.010 (Definitions) to 601.130 (Jurisdiction of courts) or any of the rules and regulations of the State Department of Agriculture made under such sections, or that such person has failed to place and keep the premises, where the person conducts the licensed business or the conveyance, in the manner required by such sections, the department may revoke the license of the person, or refuse to issue a license to such person. [Amended by 1961 c.425 §10]

Source: Section 601.070 — Revocation or refusal to issue license , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors601.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.656 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.656
609.656 Regulated social worker reporting of abuse or neglect
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section:

(a) “Abuse or neglect” means:

(A) Animal abuse in the second degree as described in ORS 167.315 (Animal abuse in the second degree) ;

(B) Animal abuse in the first degree as described in ORS 167.320 (Animal abuse in the first degree) ;

(C) Aggravated animal abuse in the first degree as described in ORS 167.322 (Aggravated animal abuse in the first degree) ;

(D) Animal neglect in the second degree as described in ORS 167.325 (Animal neglect in the second degree) ; or

(E) Animal neglect in the first degree as described in ORS 167.330 (Animal neglect in the first degree) .

(b) “Regulated social worker” means a person authorized under ORS 675.510 (Definitions for ORS 675.510 to 675.600) to 675.600 (Duties of board) to perform regulated social work.

(2) Notwithstanding ORS 40.250 (Rule 504-4. Regulated social worker-client privilege) , in addition to the authorization under ORS 609.654 (Public or private official reporting of aggravated animal abuse) to report aggravated animal abuse in the first degree, a regulated social worker who is an employee of the Department of Human Services and has reasonable cause to believe that an animal with which the social worker has come in contact as an employee of the department has suffered abuse or neglect, or that any person with whom the social worker has come in contact as an employee of the department has committed abuse or neglect of an animal, may immediately report the suspected abuse or neglect in the manner prescribed in subsection (3) of this section.

(3) A report under subsection (2) of this section may be made to a law enforcement agency, either orally or in writing, and may include, if known:

(a) The name and description of each animal involved;

(b) The address and telephone number of the owner or other person responsible for the care of the animal;

(c) The nature and extent of the suspected abuse or neglect;

(d) Any evidence of previous abuse or neglect or of previous aggravated animal abuse in the first degree as described in ORS 167.322 (Aggravated animal abuse in the first degree) ;

(e) Any explanation given for the suspected abuse or neglect; and

(f) Any other information that the regulated social worker believes may be helpful in establishing the cause of the suspected abuse or neglect or the identity of a person causing abuse or neglect.

(4) A regulated social worker who acts in good faith and has reasonable grounds for making a report under this section of suspected abuse or neglect is not liable in any civil or criminal proceeding brought as a result of making the report. [2015 c.184 §1]

Source: Section 609.656 — Regulated social worker reporting of abuse or neglect; immunity , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.520 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.520
607.520 Stock running at large on highways in Washington County
Status: in_force

No person, either as owner or in possession or control of any horses, mules, cattle, swine, sheep or goats shall permit them to run at large on any highway or public road in Washington County.

Source: Section 607.520 — Stock running at large on highways in Washington County , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.360 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.360
607.360 Applicability of statutes regulating handling of calves and colts
Status: in_force

ORS 607.345 (Interfering with calves and colts on open range) to 607.355 (Disposal of calves and colts wrongfully held) do not apply to:

(1) The calves of milch cows where such cows are actually used to furnish milk for household purposes or for carrying on a dairy.

(2) Any freshly branded animal which has been branded previously with an older and duly recorded brand, and for which animal the claimant has a legally executed bill of sale from the owner of the older brand on such animal.

(3) Young animals under the age of 10 months which are accompanied by their mothers.

(4) Animals other than cattle or horses, or the offspring thereof, which during some period of the year run at large upon the public range.

Source: Section 607.360 — Applicability of statutes regulating handling of calves and colts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.401 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.401
599.401 Livestock auction market license required
Status: in_force

(1) No person shall operate a livestock auction market within this state without first having been licensed by the State Department of Agriculture as provided in this chapter. Any license to operate a livestock auction market is personal to the holder thereof and is not transferable.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Upon prior written application approved by the department, the licensee may move the location of the auction market facility within the boundaries of the trade area served. Such application shall contain the information required by ORS 599.406 (License application) (1)(a), (b), (d), (f) and (g).

(b) The department shall notify the applicant by certified mail within 30 days of receipt of an application submitted under paragraph (a) of this subsection whether the application has been approved or denied. If the department shall fail to act on the application within the 30-day period, it shall be deemed approved. If the application is denied, the applicant may at any time thereafter during the current licensing year or by indorsement on a renewal application request a hearing, in which case a hearing on the application for permission to move shall be held within 30 days thereafter pursuant to the provisions of ORS 599.416 (Hearing on license application) , limited to the question of the suitability and adequacy of the proposed new location and facilities. If a hearing is held pursuant to this paragraph, ORS 599.421 (Matters to be considered in granting licenses) and 599.426 (Issuance or denial of license) shall also be applicable.

(c) If the department finds that moving the location of the auction market facility would result in a substantial extension of the trading area served, it shall consider the application to be an application for a new license pursuant to ORS 599.406 (License application) and shall not consider it unless all requirements for such an application are met. The department may by rule establish criteria for determining whether an extension of trading area is substantial. [1971 c.578 §2]

Source: Section 599.401 — Livestock auction market license required; moving location of market; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.510 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.510
609.510 Animal dealers required to keep records
Status: in_force

(1) Every animal dealer shall establish and maintain records on each dog or cat and the dog’s or cat’s offspring in the dealer’s possession or control, including:

(a) The species, gender, approximate age, color and distinctive markings and breed of the dog or cat;

(b) A photograph of the dog or cat made within 24 hours of acquisition or birth;

(c) The name, address and driver license number or other official state identification number of the person providing the dog or cat;

(d) The date of acquisition or birth of the dog or cat;

(e) The date and nature of disposition of the dog or cat; and

(f) The intended destination of the dog or cat at release.

(2) Within 24 hours of the acquisition or birth of a dog or cat in the possession of any animal dealer, the dealer shall forward, by first class mail or any more expeditious method, the information required by subsection (1) of this section to the State Department of Agriculture and a fee of $1 for each dog or cat reported.

(3) The department shall maintain the reports and provide for public inspection of, and telephone inquiries concerning, the reports during normal business hours. [1991 c.837 §5]

Source: Section 609.510 — Animal dealers required to keep records; report to State Department of Agriculture; fee; public inspection of records , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.341 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.341
609.341 Permit requirement for keeping of exotic animal
Status: in_force

(1) A person may not keep an exotic animal in this state unless the person possesses a valid State Department of Agriculture permit for that animal issued prior to January 1, 2010, or issued as provided in ORS 609.351 (Issuance and renewal of exotic animal permit) .

(2) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, a person keeping an exotic animal in this state may not breed that animal.

(3) A person may not keep an exotic animal in this state for more than 30 days after the expiration, revocation or suspension of a permit.

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) A person may breed a small exotic feline if the person:

(A) Is exempt from the requirements for a permit under ORS 609.345 (Exceptions to permit requirement) ; or

(B) Breeds a small exotic feline with a member of the species Felis catus (domestic cat), and:

(i) The person has a permit issued by the State Department of Agriculture under ORS 609.351 (Issuance and renewal of exotic animal permit) ; and

(ii) The person provides written documentation, including the person’s business license, that the person bred the animals for the purpose of retail sale of the offspring.

(b) As used in this subsection, “small exotic feline” means a member of the family Felidae, except the species Felis catus (domestic cat), that weighs 50 pounds or less when fully mature. [Formerly 609.319]

Source: Section 609.341 — Permit requirement for keeping of exotic animal; breeding of animal , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 608.400 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 608 / Section 608.400
608.400 Inspection of injured livestock and notice to owner
Status: in_force

When notified of the killing or injury of livestock under the circumstances described in ORS 608.380 (Notice of stock injured or killed) , the brand inspector or sheriff shall go to the scene of the accident, examine any identifying marks and, if the ownership of the livestock is determined, notify the owner. If the owner remains unknown, the sheriff shall cause publication in a county newspaper of a description of the livestock and the facts of the accident.

Source: Section 608.400 — Inspection of injured livestock and notice to owner , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors608.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.105 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.105
609.105 Exemption for assistance animals
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding ORS 609.015 (Application of ORS 609.030 and 609.035 to 609.110) or 609.100 (Dog licenses, tags and fees) , a county or city shall not charge a fee to license a dog used as an assistance animal as defined in ORS 659A.143 (Assistance animals) . [1979 c.366 §1; 1991 c.67 §155; 1999 c.658 §11; 2001 c.104 §238; 2013 c.530 §8]

Source: Section 609.105 — Exemption for assistance animals , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.660 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.660
596.660 Method of destruction
Status: in_force

When in the opinion of the State Department of Agriculture livestock or property which is condemned can be destroyed in a manner which will permit some salvage to be realized, without prejudice to adequate disease control or eradication measures or to human health and welfare, the department may authorize such methods of destruction and prescribe the conditions upon which it may be carried out. In no case shall a method of destruction be authorized merely because it permits salvage, unless it may be accomplished within seven days from the date the destruction order is delivered.

Source: Section 596.660 — Method of destruction; salvage , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.338 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.338
607.338 Use of proceeds from sale to pay person taking up animal
Status: in_force

(1) If the State Department of Agriculture sells an estray animal under ORS 607.328 (Procedure for sale of estray animal) , the department shall first recover from the proceeds of the sale the costs described in ORS 607.337 (Use of proceeds from sale to pay department costs) (1), and from any balance remaining pay to the person taking up the animal the costs described in ORS 607.304 (Delivery of estray animal to department or owner) (2), except as limited by ORS 607.308 (Alternative procedure for person taking up estray animal) , 607.313 (Notice to department by persons taking up estray animal) (2) and subsection (2) of this section.

(2) If the department sells under ORS 607.328 (Procedure for sale of estray animal) an estray animal that was delivered to the department under ORS 607.304 (Delivery of estray animal to department or owner) (1), the department shall allow to the person taking up the animal only reasonable costs. The department’s determination of reasonable costs shall be final. However, the department may, upon written request of the person taking up the animal, submit the question of the amount of reasonable costs to arbitration. If the question is submitted to arbitration, the department shall furnish to the person taking up the animal the names of five arbitrators selected from the list of qualified persons maintained in accordance with ORS 607.304 (Delivery of estray animal to department or owner) (10), and the person taking up the animal shall appoint one arbitrator from the list within five days of receiving the list. The department shall then appoint one arbitrator and the two arbitrators shall jointly appoint a third arbitrator from the list. The two arbitrators shall give written notice of the appointment of the third arbitrator to the department and the person taking up the animal no later than five days after receiving the list. The three arbitrators shall act as a board of arbitration and may hear witnesses, take testimony, inspect documents, the animal and the premises and issue a decision as to the amount of reasonable costs. The decision of the arbitrators shall be final. Written notice of the decision shall be given to the department and the person taking up the animal no later than 30 days after the appointment of the third arbitrator. The person taking up the animal shall pay an arbitration fee of $150 to the department at the time of submitting the written request for arbitration, from which the department shall pay each appointed arbitrator $50 for arbitration services.

(3) Any balance remaining from the proceeds of the sale after the department has reimbursed itself and has paid the costs of the person taking up the animal shall be paid to the owner of the animal. If the owner fails to establish the right to the remaining proceeds within one year after the sale, all rights to the proceeds shall vest in the department to use in carrying out the provisions of this chapter and ORS chapter 604.

(4) This section does not require the department to pay the costs of the person taking up the animal if the proceeds of the sale of the animal are not sufficient to pay those costs. [1957 c.604 §27; 1971 c.579 §7; 1975 c.65 §9; 1981 c.413 §4; 2009 c.336 §13]

Source: Section 607.338 — Use of proceeds from sale to pay person taking up animal; arbitration of costs; fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.311 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.311
607.311 Taking up estray animal
Status: in_force

(1) A person who finds an estray animal upon the premises of the person or premises of which the person has lawful possession or control may take up the animal.

(2) A person may not knowingly take up or retain possession, custody or control of an estray animal without giving the notice required by ORS 607.313 (Notice to department by persons taking up estray animal) . [1953 c.367 §9; 1975 c.65 §3; 2009 c.336 §6]

Source: Section 607.311 — Taking up estray animal; prohibition , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.805 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.805
609.805 Misrepresentation of pedigree
Status: in_force

(1) No person shall:

(a) By any false representation and with intent to defraud, obtain from any corporation, club, association, society or company organized in whole or in part for the purpose of improving breeds of cattle, horses, sheep, swine or other domestic animals, a false certificate of registration of any such animal in their herd register or other register, or obtain the transfer of any such certificate.

(b) Knowingly and with intent to defraud, give a false pedigree of any such animal.

(c) During the existence of any mortgage on or lien or charge against any such animal, spoliate, mutilate or destroy the registration certificates or proofs of pedigree, or so encumber the same that the animal covered thereby cannot, in connection with the records, rules and regulations of the corporation, club, association, society or company under which the animal is registered, be directly designated thereby.

(2) Violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor. [Formerly 605.040]

Source: Section 609.805 — Misrepresentation of pedigree; mutilation of certificate or proof of pedigree; violation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 601.100 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 601 / Section 601.100
601.100 Transportation and handling of dead animals
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, all persons licensed under ORS 601.050 (Investigation of place of business and applicant) or 601.080 (License for conveyance transporting dead animals) shall transport bodies, carcasses or parts of animals to their establishments in a covered wagon, truck bed or tank which is watertight and so constructed that no drippings or seepings can escape therefrom. Such wagon, truck bed or tank shall be so constructed as to conform to the rules and regulations that may be established by the State Department of Agriculture. The bodies, carcasses or parts of animals shall not be removed from such wagon, truck bed or tank except at the place of final disposition.

(2) However, any person licensed under ORS 601.050 (Investigation of place of business and applicant) or 601.080 (License for conveyance transporting dead animals) may, for the purpose of securing economy of handling and transportation, establish a refrigerated assembly plant where whole bodies of dead animals or their carcasses or parts may be placed in storage pending the assembly of an economical quantity for transportation to the central plant. Such assembly plant shall conform to such regulations by the department as shall keep it in sanitary condition. Each such assembly plant shall be subject to an annual license fee of $10.

(3) Whole bodies of dead animals, the condition of which has not become obnoxious to human senses, and which cannot be placed in an ordinary wagon, truck bed or tank as described in subsection (1) of this section, may be transported in an open wagon or truck. In such case the body shall be suitably covered and concealed.

(4) In the case of transporting offal or parts of bodies from slaughterhouses or other places, the containers in which they are transported must have tight covers and be kept in a sanitary condition.

Source: Section 601.100 — Transportation and handling of dead animals; assembly plant license fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors601.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.167 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.167
609.167 Conversion of civil penalty into lien
Status: in_force

(1) Moneys collected from a dog owner under ORS 609.162 (Guidelines for imposing remedial measures, civil penalties or other sanctions) or 609.163 (Enhanced civil penalties for habitual violators) shall be deposited in the county treasury.

(2) A civil penalty under ORS 609.162 (Guidelines for imposing remedial measures, civil penalties or other sanctions) or 609.163 (Enhanced civil penalties for habitual violators) is a penalty against the person owning the dog at the time that the dog killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock. The penalty may not be transferred to a subsequent owner of the dog.

(3) When a county assesses a civil penalty under ORS 609.162 (Guidelines for imposing remedial measures, civil penalties or other sanctions) or 609.163 (Enhanced civil penalties for habitual violators) , if the amount of penalty is not paid within 21 days after delivery or mailing of the determination, the county may record the penalty with the county clerk of any county of this state. The clerk shall thereupon record in the County Clerk Lien Record the name of the person incurring the penalty. However, the county shall not record a penalty with a county clerk while a request for reexamination or petition for judicial review is pending.

(4) In addition to any other remedy provided by law, recording an order in the County Clerk Lien Record pursuant to this section has the effect provided for in ORS 205.125 (County Clerk Lien Record) and 205.126 (Enforcement of order or warrant recorded in County Clerk Lien Record) , and the order may be enforced as provided in ORS 205.125 (County Clerk Lien Record) and 205.126 (Enforcement of order or warrant recorded in County Clerk Lien Record) .

(5) Imposition of a civil penalty under ORS 609.162 (Guidelines for imposing remedial measures, civil penalties or other sanctions) or 609.163 (Enhanced civil penalties for habitual violators) does not prevent the bringing of an action for damages under ORS 609.140 (Right of action by owner of damaged livestock) or 609.190 (Subrogation of county paying claim) . A determination by the county that a dog has killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock is prima facie evidence of the matter in a subsequent action under ORS 609.140 (Right of action by owner of damaged livestock) but not in an action under ORS 609.190 (Subrogation of county paying claim) . [1999 c.756 §7]

Source: Section 609.167 — Conversion of civil penalty into lien; disposition of proceeds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 610.040 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 610 / Section 610.040
610.040 Money from sale of skins
Status: in_force

Money received by the State Department of Agriculture from the sale of skins shall be paid into the State Treasury and expended in the county from which the skins were taken, in the control and eradication of predatory animals.

Source: Section 610.040 — Money from sale of skins , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors610.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.030 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.030
596.030 Administration of national plans relating to poultry
Status: in_force

(1) The State Department of Agriculture is designated as the official agency in Oregon for cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture and other states of the United States in the administration of the National Poultry Improvement Plan and the National Turkey Improvement Plan, relating to eradication and control of poultry and fowl diseases and the improvement of breeding and production qualities of such fowl.

(2) All fees collected by the department from participants in either of such plans shall be deposited in the State Treasury and credited to the Department of Agriculture Service Fund, and such fees are continuously appropriated to the department for administration and enforcement of such plans.

(3) A civil action may be maintained by the department on relation of its director for the collection of any unpaid fees charged to participants for services rendered or materials furnished by the department in connection with the administration of either plan.

(4) Nonpayment of fees due the department, as required by law, or failure or refusal to comply with the provisions of the plans or rules thereunder, suspends the right of a person to participate therein and to use any of the material thereunder. The department shall forward a written notice of suspension to the last-known address of the participant, by certified mail, at least 15 days prior to the date of suspension. Prior to the effective date of the suspension, the participant may present information and data to the department showing there has been compliance with the law and the department shall grant such participant an immediate hearing in accordance with ORS chapter 183. The order of suspension shall be effective as provided in the order issued pursuant to such hearing. [Amended by 1965 c.217 §2; 1971 c.734 §90; 1979 c.499 §11]

Source: Section 596.030 — Administration of national plans relating to poultry; disposition of fees; suspension of participants , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.161 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.161
609.161 Disputable presumption that dog harms or chases livestock
Status: in_force

For purposes of ORS 609.135 (Applicability of ORS 609.156, 609.162 and 609.168) to 609.190 (Subrogation of county paying claim) , a disputable presumption shall arise that a dog has been engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock if:

(1) The dog is found chasing livestock not the property of the owner of the dog in an area where freshly damaged livestock are found;

(2) The dog is found feeding upon a warm carcass of a livestock animal;

(3) An examination of the dog’s feces indicates ingestion of portions of the anatomy or covering of the anatomy of livestock by the dog; or

(4) Portions of the anatomy or covering of the anatomy of livestock are found on the teeth of the dog, unless the dog is regularly used for the purpose of herding sheep. [Formerly 609.157]

Source: Section 609.161 — Disputable presumption that dog harms or chases livestock , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.385 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.385
599.385 Enforcement procedures
Status: in_force

If the operator of a livestock auction market violates any of the provisions of this chapter, or regulations promulgated by the State Department of Agriculture under this chapter, the department may:

(1) Summarily quarantine the livestock or the premises, or both, as provided in ORS 596.361 (Summary quarantine of livestock imported in violation of ORS 596.351) to 596.402 (Authority to summarily quarantine areas) .

(2) Apply to the circuit court of the county in which the livestock auction market is located for a court order as provided in ORS 596.416 (Application to court to compel owner or person in charge of property to cooperate) . [1957 c.390 §13]

Source: Section 599.385 — Enforcement procedures , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.341 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.341
596.341 Examination, testing or treatment of livestock before entry into state
Status: in_force

(1) In addition to the permit required by subsection (2) of this section, the State Department of Agriculture may cause livestock to be tested, treated or examined as a condition of entry into this state and may, as evidence of that test, treatment or examination, require the presentation of a certificate of an official of the state of origin designated by the department or of a veterinary inspector of the federal government.

(2) The department shall require a written permit authorizing entry into this state of any livestock or other animals subject to the disease control law and not exempt under subsection (3) of this section. The permit shall be issued upon condition that:

(a) The consignee, owner or purchaser hold the imported livestock upon the arrival of the livestock in this state subject to direction of the department pending completion of the testing, treatment or examination of the livestock;

(b) The livestock be disposed of in accordance with the laws of this state and the rules of the department, if the livestock is found to be infected with, exposed to, or a carrier of, a disease; and

(c) The consignee, owner or purchaser complies with the rules promulgated by the department to enforce the intent of this chapter.

(3) The department may exempt the following classes of livestock or other animals subject to the disease control law from the requirements of this section:

(a) Livestock that is consigned to and will be slaughtered by a licensed slaughterer within eight days after entry into this state.

(b) Livestock in uninterrupted transit through the state, provided that stops may be made for feed, water and rest.

(c) Livestock consigned to an Oregon auction market licensed under ORS chapter 599 where approved veterinary inspection is in force.

(d) Dogs, cats or small caged birds traveling in a family vehicle as part of that social entity.

(e) Any animals that the department determines do not pose a disease threat. [1955 c.557 §16 ( 596.341 (Examination, testing or treatment of livestock before entry into state) , 596.351 (Prohibited acts relating to livestock importation) and 596.361 (Summary quarantine of livestock imported in violation of ORS 596.351) enacted in lieu of 596.350); 1973 c.2 §1; 1975 c.572 §1; 1983 c.101 §3; 1985 c.91 §2; 1987 c.909 §2; 1991 c.420 §3; 1999 c.102 §§3,3a; 2001 c.22 §3; 2023 c.146 §3]

Source: Section 596.341 — Examination, testing or treatment of livestock before entry into state; permit requirements; conditions and exemptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.530 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.530
599.530 Prohibited practices in sales of purebreds
Status: in_force

No person shall include in any public auction or sale of purebred livestock any animal which is not offered for bona fide sale, or which is placed in the sale for the purpose, or with the intent, of creating, or attempting to create, any fictitious value for any other animal offered at such sale by by-bidding, offering fictitious bids, making fictitious sales or otherwise.

Source: Section 599.530 — Prohibited practices in sales of purebreds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.245 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.245
599.245 Licensee’s bond
Status: in_force

(1) Each person licensed to operate a livestock auction market shall maintain a bond approved by the State Department of Agriculture to secure the performance of statutory duties and private obligations incurred as the operator of such market. The bond shall be filed with the department and shall be renewed whenever the license is renewed. The bond shall be conditioned that the licensee shall pay all legal claims which may accrue against the licensee in favor of any seller or buyer of livestock, arising from the conduct of the licensee’s market.

(2) The surety on each bond shall be a corporate surety licensed to do business as a surety within the State of Oregon.

(3) The surety shall not cancel the bond until 60 days after its written notice of such cancellation is received by the department, which notice shall be sent to the department and to the principal by registered or certified mail.

(4) The amount of the bond, after public hearing under ORS chapter 183, shall be determined by reference by the department to a schedule which it shall establish. Such schedule which may vary depending on the type of livestock auction market operation, the estimated or actual volume of sales or other standards which the department deems necessary, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, shall conform to the bonding law and rules of the federal Packers and Stockyards Act prescribed in subsection (5) of this section. The department in addition may require before it gives its approval to a bond or renewal thereof that the applicant submit a financial statement or other information to assist the department in determining the necessary size or type of bond which may be necessary for the protection of persons who may be covered or affected thereby.

(5) Any livestock auction market licensee or applicant for license who presents to the department satisfactory evidence of compliance with the bonding provisions of the federal Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921, 7 U.S.C. 181 to 228, as amended, and effective June 29, 1971, shall be deemed in compliance with the bonding requirements of this section during such time as the licensee or applicant complies with the bonding provisions of such federal statute. If a federal bond which has been deemed to be in compliance with the provisions of this section is canceled or terminated, the licensee shall immediately stop all operations of such market until another state or federal bond has been obtained by the licensee and approved by the appropriate agency, as required by law. Until another such bond has been obtained, the license of the market operator shall be deemed suspended and shall be surrendered to the department.

(6) If two or more persons have claims, either fixed or contingent, against a licensee’s bond maintained pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, they shall, subject to the provisions of ORS 599.251 (Procedure on licensee’s default as to condition of bond) , share pro rata in the proceeds of the bond to the extent of their actual damages except that the claims of the State of Oregon and the department referred to in subsection (1)(a) of this section shall have priority over, and shall be paid to the department prior to, all other claims or creditors. [1953 c.677 §6; 1957 c.390 §2; 1959 c.596 §70; 1959 c.685 §31; 1961 c.283 §1; 1963 c.15 §1; 1967 c.368 §4; 1971 c.578 §12]

Source: Section 599.245 — Licensee’s bond , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.339 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.339
607.339 Liability of department
Status: in_force

Except for gross negligence the State Department of Agriculture is not liable for the payment of the proceeds of sale or return of custody of an estray animal to a person claiming to be the true owner of the animal. [1953 c.367 §7; 2009 c.336 §14]

Source: Section 607.339 — Liability of department , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 601.010 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 601 / Section 601.010
601.010 Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, the term “department” means the State Department of Agriculture.

Source: Section 601.010 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors601.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 601.050 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 601 / Section 601.050
601.050 Investigation of place of business and applicant
Status: in_force

(1) Upon receiving an application for a license, the State Department of Agriculture shall immediately cause one of its officers, employees or deputies to inspect the place where the applicant desires to conduct the business, and ascertain:

(a) Whether the applicant is a responsible and suitable person to be entrusted with a license to conduct such business.

(b) Whether the place where the business is to be conducted is a suitable and sanitary place in which to dispose of the bodies, carcasses and parts of animals.

(c) Whether it conforms to the rules and regulations prescribed by the department.

(2) If the applicant meets the requirements set forth in this section, the department shall issue the applicant a license to conduct business. [Amended by 2003 c.14 §359]

Source: Section 601.050 — Investigation of place of business and applicant; issuance of license , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors601.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 608.330 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 608 / Section 608.330
608.330 Leaving gate open
Status: in_force

(1) No person shall intentionally or negligently leave open or unfastened any farm crossing gate, or let down and leave down any bars of any railroad fence.

(2) Justices of the peace have original jurisdiction for violations of this section.

Source: Section 608.330 — Leaving gate open , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors608.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.620 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.620
596.620 Indemnification of owners of livestock or property slaughtered or destroyed by order of department
Status: in_force

The owner of any livestock or property which is slaughtered or otherwise destroyed at the order of the State Department of Agriculture in the performance of its duty to eradicate and control the contagious and communicable diseases of livestock in this state is entitled to indemnity as provided in ORS 596.640 (Livestock and property not eligible for indemnity) to 596.681 (Limit of state indemnity to livestock owner also receiving federal indemnity) . [1953 c.633 §3]

Source: Section 596.620 — Indemnification of owners of livestock or property slaughtered or destroyed by order of department , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.304 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.304
607.304 Delivery of estray animal to department or owner
Status: in_force

(1) If the owner of an estray animal does not appear in response to the notice given under ORS 607.303 (Owner or lessee of property taking up estray animal) (2), the person taking up the animal shall deliver the animal to the State Department of Agriculture, at a place designated by the department, at least 48 hours in advance of the date of sale. The time of sale may not be less than 30 days and not more than 45 days after the date of taking up the animal. The State Department of Agriculture shall sell the animal in accordance with ORS 607.328 (Procedure for sale of estray animal) .

(2) If the owner of the animal does appear, the person taking up the animal shall deliver the animal to the owner or agent if the owner pays to the person, before the date of sale:

(a) The cost of taking up the animal;

(b) The cost of giving notice;

(c) The cost of keeping the animal; and

(d) The cost of repairing any damage done by the animal to the property of the person.

(3) The person taking up the animal, upon delivering the animal to the owner, shall notify the department of the delivery.

(4) If the owner is unable to agree with the person taking up the animal as to the amount of the costs payable to the person, no later than five days after the owner is advised of the amount of the payable costs, the owner shall:

(a) Pay an arbitration fee of $150 to the department; and

(b) Give written notice to the department and the person taking up the animal that the owner disagrees with the amount of the costs, desires arbitration of the disagreement and desires that the department furnish a list of arbitrators.

(5) Upon receiving the notice of the owner described in subsection (4) of this section, the department shall furnish to the owner and the person taking up the animal the names of five arbitrators selected from the list of qualified persons maintained in accordance with subsection (10) of this section. No later than five days after receiving the list of arbitrators, the owner shall give written notice to the department and the person taking up the animal of the name of the arbitrator appointed by the owner from the list. No later than five days after receiving the list of arbitrators, the person taking up the animal shall give written notice to the department and to the owner of the name of the arbitrator appointed by the person from the list.

(6) Upon receiving the notices of appointment of arbitrators, as provided in subsection (5) of this section, the department shall give written notice to each appointed arbitrator of the arbitrator’s appointment.

(7) Upon receiving notice as provided in subsection (6) of this section, each of the two arbitrators shall notify the department in writing whether the arbitrator accepts the appointment. Upon acceptance of appointment by an arbitrator appointed by the owner and an arbitrator appointed by the person taking up the animal, the department shall appoint a third arbitrator. An acceptance of appointment by the third arbitrator must be in writing. The department shall pay each appointed arbitrator $50 from the money paid to the department under subsection (4) of this section for arbitration services. The three arbitrators shall act as a board of arbitration and may hear witnesses, take testimony, inspect documents, the animal and premises and may issue a decision as to the amount allowable as costs. The decision shall be by majority vote and conclusive as to the owner and person taking up the animal upon receipt of the decision by the department. Written notice of the decision shall be given to the department, the owner and the person taking up the animal no later than 30 days after the appointment of the third arbitrator.

(8) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) If the owner gives the notice to the department and the person taking up the animal that the owner disagrees with the amount of the costs, but does not indicate in the notice a desire to arbitrate or a desire to have a list of arbitrators furnished to the owner, the owner’s right to arbitration is waived and the person taking up the animal shall deliver the animal to the department at a place designated by the department. The department shall then sell the animal in accordance with ORS 607.328 (Procedure for sale of estray animal) .

(b) If the person taking up the animal fails to give a notice of appointment required under subsection (5) of this section, the person waives the right to arbitration and the animal may not be sold. The owner shall be entitled to the immediate possession of the animal without payment of any of the costs described in subsection (2) of this section.

(9) At any time during the arbitration provided for in this section, the owner of the animal may give written notice to the department and the person taking up the animal of the owner’s desire to regain immediate possession and custody of the animal. If the owner gives such notice, and at the same time deposits with the department a cash deposit in an amount equal to the accrued costs claimed by the person taking up the animal as of the date the notice is given, the animal shall be released to the owner or agent within 48 hours after the giving of notice and cash deposit. The department is authorized to pay the costs determined by the arbitrators under subsection (7) of this section to the person taking up the animal and return the balance, if any, to the owner.

(10) The department shall establish and maintain a list of persons qualified by experience and knowledge to act as arbitrators in accordance with subsection (7) of this section. In furnishing the names of five arbitrators, as provided in subsection (5) of this section, the department shall first determine that none of the listed persons:

(a) Is related to either the owner or person taking up the animal;

(b) Is, or has been, an agent, employee or business associate of the owner or the person taking up the animal; or

(c) Has for any reason bias or prejudice toward the owner or the person taking up the animal.

(11) If the owner or the person taking up the animal intentionally fails to disclose to the department that any of the five arbitrators on the list provided under subsection (5) of this section does not meet the criteria described in subsection (10) of this section, the department shall upon determining an intentional failure to disclose:

(a) Declare the arbitrator disqualified and any arbitration decision previously rendered void and of no effect;

(b) Select a person from the department’s list to replace the disqualified arbitrator; and

(c) Direct that the arbitration be undertaken with the newly appointed arbitrator as a member of the board of arbitration. [1957 c.604 §25; 1971 c.579 §6; 1975 c.65 §1; 1981 c.413 §1; 2009 c.336 §4]

Source: Section 607.304 — Delivery of estray animal to department or owner; payment of costs to person taking up animal; arbitration of costs; fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.992 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.992
607.992 Penalties
Status: in_force

(1) A person that intentionally, knowingly or recklessly violates a provision of this chapter is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor.

(2) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, a person that violates a provision of this chapter, but does not act intentionally, knowingly or recklessly, commits a Class B violation.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) A person that violates ORS 607.045 (Livestock at large in livestock districts) , but does not act intentionally, knowingly or recklessly, commits a Class D violation if the person does not have a previous conviction for a violation of ORS 607.045 (Livestock at large in livestock districts) . As used in this paragraph, “previous conviction” means a conviction entered before the commission of the current violation of ORS 607.045 (Livestock at large in livestock districts) .

(b) Notwithstanding ORS 153.019 (Presumptive fines) or any other requirement pertaining to Class D violation fine amounts, the presumptive fine for a violation described in this subsection is $60. [1967 c.113 §3 (enacted in lieu of 607.990); 2013 c.312 §5]

Source: Section 607.992 — Penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 608.370 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 608 / Section 608.370
608.370 Service of process on agent
Status: in_force

In any action authorized by ORS 608.340 (Liability of railroad for killing or injuring stock) , service of summons or any other necessary process may be made upon any person, or the lessees or agents of the person, owning or operating any railroad, by personal service upon any authorized agent thereof, residing or stationed in the county where such action is brought.

Source: Section 608.370 — Service of process on agent , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors608.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.335 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.335
599.335 Employment of veterinarian by licensee
Status: in_force

(1) The licensee shall employ a veterinarian to perform all tests and make all examinations of animals required to be performed, carried out or made by the provisions of this chapter or the regulations promulgated thereunder.

(2) Every assistant state veterinarian shall have authority and responsibility for the direction and control of the sanitary practices at such livestock auction market. The veterinarian shall notify in writing the licensee or managing agent of the licensee of insanitary conditions or practices. If the improper conditions or practices are not corrected in the time specified, the State Department of Agriculture shall take appropriate steps to revoke the market operator’s license.

(3) If in the event of an emergency situation any licensee is unable to procure the services of a veterinarian under subsection (1) of this section, the licensee may apply to the department, and the department may furnish a person the department deems qualified to make the examinations required at a livestock auction market. In the event the services of such qualified person are utilized, and the person determines any animal shows any abnormality or sign of ill health, such person at once shall contact an assistant state veterinarian or deputy state veterinarian for further examinations. The licensee shall reimburse the department for the actual expenses incurred by the qualified person and the assistant state veterinarian or deputy state veterinarian for the further examinations. All animals determined by the qualified person to require further examinations by a veterinarian shall be detained in the pens described in ORS 599.295 (Pens for diseased animals) until released by the assistant state veterinarian or deputy state veterinarian.

(4) If upon investigation the department finds that any veterinarian employed by the licensee is not discharging duties and responsibilities in compliance with the provisions of this chapter and the regulations promulgated thereunder, the department may, after notice and opportunity for hearing, disqualify such veterinarian from performing any further official functions in connection with such market. [1953 c.677 §13; 1971 c.578 §15; 1975 c.573 §1; 1979 c.807 §1; 1983 c.101 §4]

Source: Section 599.335 — Employment of veterinarian by licensee; authority; revocation of market operator’s license for failing to correct insanitary conditions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.032 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.032
607.032 Publication of county governing body declarations
Status: in_force

(1) If a county governing body declares the formation of a livestock district, or the annexation of land to a livestock district, the county clerk shall give notice of the formation or annexation by publication, in the newspaper having the largest general circulation in the county, once a week for two consecutive weeks, that on and after the 60th day from the date of the first publication of the notice it shall be unlawful for livestock or a class of livestock to be permitted to run at large within the boundaries of the livestock district. The notice shall state the district boundaries as existing following the county governing body declaration and shall also set forth the penalties for violation of ORS 607.045 (Livestock at large in livestock districts) . A notice of livestock district formation shall also state the name by which the district is to be known.

(2) If the county governing body declares the withdrawal of land from a livestock district or the dissolution of a livestock district, the county clerk shall give notice of the withdrawal or dissolution by publication, in the newspaper having the largest general circulation in the county, once a week for two consecutive weeks, that on and after the 60th day from the date of the first publication of the notice it shall be lawful for livestock or a class of livestock to run at large within the area affected by the withdrawal or dissolution. The notice shall state the boundaries of the area affected by the county governing body declaration.

(3) The county clerk shall maintain a copy of each notice published under this section in the county records. The county clerk shall also mail one certified copy of the last publication of the notice, by certified or registered mail, to the State Department of Agriculture. Formation of, annexation to, withdrawal from or dissolution of a livestock district is not effective until the later of the date in the notice published under this section or the date the certified copy of the last published notice is sent to the department. [2019 c.450 §6]

Source: Section 607.032 — Publication of county governing body declarations , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 604.650 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 604 / Section 604.650
604.650 Inventory upon removal
Status: in_force

(1) All cattle, including salvage animals, dead animals, other sale animals and fed cattle being sent to slaughter, removed from the licensed feedlot shall be inventoried by the brand inspector of the State Department of Agriculture and the number thereof deducted from the department’s inventory records of the licensee. The department shall thereafter issue its brand inspection certificate, or other appropriate document evidencing brand inspection, listing thereon only the number and general description of the cattle removed from the licensed feedlot. The department shall charge the brand inspection fee established by law for such inventory and inspection.

(2) Upon completion of the inventory and inspection of the cattle being removed from the licensed feedlot, no person shall add, remove or substitute for any animal in the lot of cattle subjected to such inventory and inspection. [1975 c.162 §7; 1981 c.248 §31]

Source: Section 604.650 — Inventory upon removal; fee; prohibited acts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors604.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.044 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.044
607.044 Civil liability for livestock at large in livestock district
Status: in_force

A person shall be liable to the owner or lawful possessor of land if the person permits an animal of a class of livestock to run at large upon such land and the land is located in a livestock district in which it is unlawful for such class of livestock to be permitted to run at large. [1957 c.604 §15]

Source: Section 607.044 — Civil liability for livestock at large in livestock district , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.515 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.515
609.515 Required period of possession of animal by dealer
Status: in_force

Every animal dealer shall maintain possession of each dog or cat received for a period of at least 10 days after initial receipt of the dog or cat, unless the dealer:

(1) Returns the dog or cat to its rightful owner; or

(2) Delivers the dog or cat to an animal shelter. [1991 c.837 §6]

Source: Section 609.515 — Required period of possession of animal by dealer , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 608.380 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 608 / Section 608.380
608.380 Notice of stock injured or killed
Status: in_force

Whenever any livestock mentioned in ORS 608.340 (Liability of railroad for killing or injuring stock) is killed or injured by a moving train or engine upon the unfenced railroad track of any railroad in this state, the owner, operator, lessee or agent of the railroad shall immediately notify or cause notice to be given to the sheriff of the county where the accident occurred, and within a reasonable time shall deliver to the sheriff a written description of the livestock so killed or injured, including brands, earmarks and any marks of ownership, and a statement of the condition of or extent and nature of injuries to the livestock.

Source: Section 608.380 — Notice of stock injured or killed , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors608.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 603.010 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 603 / Section 603.010
603.010 Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter:

(1) “Custom processing establishment” means a stationary establishment wherein slaughtered meat animals or meat, caused to be delivered by the owners thereof, are prepared for compensation, payment or remuneration of any kind, and are thereafter returned to the owner thereof or to the order of the owner.

(2) “Custom slaughtering establishment” means a mobile or stationary establishment wherein meat animals, caused to be delivered by the owners thereof, are slaughtered for compensation, payment or remuneration of any kind, and are thereafter returned to the owner thereof or to the order of the owner.

(3) “Department” means the State Department of Agriculture.

(4) “Equipment” means all machinery, fixtures, containers, vessels, tools, implements and apparatus used in and about an establishment.

(5) “Establishment” means:

(a) Any building, vehicle or structure in which meat animals are slaughtered for consumption or meat products are prepared, sold, offered or held for sale.

(b) The ground upon which such place or business is operated or used and so much ground adjacent thereto as is also used in carrying on the business of the establishment. The department may prescribe such additional area or places which, although they may not be contiguous or adjacent to the above area or establishment, may be included therein.

(6) “Meat animal” means any vertebrate animal, except fish and aquatic mammals, not otherwise prohibited by law for sale for human consumption.

(7) “Meat or meat product” means any edible muscle, except any muscle found in the lips, snout or ears, of meat animals, which is skeletal or found in the tongue, diaphragm, heart or esophagus, with or without any accompanying and overlying fat, and any portion of bone, skin, sinew, nerve or blood vessels normally accompanying the muscle tissue and not separated from it in the process of dressing or as otherwise prescribed by the department.

(8) “Meat seller establishment” means an establishment wherein meat products are sold, offered or held for sale, but which are not prepared other than to be ground, seasoned, salted, frozen, boned, cut up, wrapped or packed.

(9) “Nonslaughtering processing establishment” means any building, structure or vehicle wherein the activities of a slaughterhouse, custom slaughtering establishment or custom processing establishment or of an animal food slaughtering establishment or animal food processing establishment under ORS chapter 619 are not performed, but wherein meat products are prepared.

(10) “Poultry” means chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys and all other domesticated fowls or birds.

(11) “Prepared” means ground, seasoned, canned, cooked, salted, frozen, smoked, cured, pickled, packed, boned, dried, cut up, wrapped or otherwise manufactured or processed.

(12) “Slaughterhouse” means an establishment wherein meat animals are slaughtered.

(13) “Unwholesome” means all meats or meat products that are diseased, contaminated, including drug or chemical residue, putrid, unsound, unhealthful or unfit for food. [Amended by 1953 c.692 §6; 1955 c.724 §1; 1959 c.239 §1; 1961 c.164 §1; 1969 c.565 §1; 1973 c.175 §3; 1975 c.304 §1; 1993 c.162 §1; 1995 c.79 §320; 2003 c.14 §360]

Source: Section 603.010 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors603.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.315 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.315
599.315 Regulation by department of testing, treating and examining of livestock
Status: in_force

The State Department of Agriculture may require such testing, treating and examining of livestock sold, traded, exchanged or handled at or through livestock auction markets as in its judgment may be necessary to prevent the spread of brucellosis, tuberculosis or paratuberculosis, hog cholera and other infectious, contagious or communicable diseases among the livestock of this state. [1953 c.677 §12; 1957 c.390 §4; 1959 c.63 §6]

Source: Section 599.315 — Regulation by department of testing, treating and examining of livestock , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.650 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.650
596.650 Indemnity
Status: in_force

(1) An owner may claim indemnity on any animal or property ordered destroyed by the State Department of Agriculture. Each animal or article of property which is eligible for indemnity shall be appraised prior to its destruction. The department shall provide forms on which claims for indemnity can be made, to the owner of livestock or property ordered destroyed at the time the order of destruction is given to the owner. The claim for indemnity, order of destruction and appraisal may be included in one form at the discretion of the department. In order to qualify for indemnity, the owner shall submit a claim to the department within seven days after receiving such claim form from the department. The appraisal shall be performed by two appraisers, one of whom shall be selected by the department and one of whom shall be selected by the owner. If they cannot agree on the appraised value, a third appraiser shall be immediately appointed by the two appraisers selected by the department and the owner and the department and owner advised of the appointment. If the owner fails to select an appraiser within 10 days after the department’s request therefor, the department shall appoint two appraisers to evaluate the livestock or property. The appraisers shall view each animal or article of property to be appraised and inspect documents, premises or any other items deemed necessary to perform the appraisal. Upon completion of the appraisal, the appraisers shall record the evaluations on a form supplied by the department and shall submit the completed appraisal form to the department within 10 days after completion of the appraisal. The department shall then notify the owner of the results of the appraisal.

(2) The livestock or property shall be appraised on the basis of current market value of animals or property of like kind, quality and physical condition at the time the destruction was ordered. As used in this subsection, “market value” means the average selling price of animals or property of like kind and quality in the locality where the animals or property are situated, during the 30 days immediately preceding the appraisal, and if no such average selling price can be determined in the locality, then the average selling price in the next nearest locality where it can be determined.

(3) If the livestock condemned by the department are registered and the owner claims enhanced value by such fact, a certified copy of the certificate of registry shall accompany the appraisal report. [1953 c.633 §4; 1965 c.217 §3; 1981 c.334 §2]

Source: Section 596.650 — Indemnity; appraisal of animal or property prior to destruction , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 610.003 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 610 / Section 610.003
610.003 Bobcat and red fox control permitted
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the State Department of Agriculture, after consultation with the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, may implement bobcat and red fox control procedures as authorized under this chapter, for a specified period of time and within a specified area, if the State Department of Agriculture determines such action is necessary to protect domestic mammals or birds. [Formerly subsection (2) of 610.002; 1979 c.399 §4]

Source: Section 610.003 — Bobcat and red fox control permitted , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors610.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.460 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.460
596.460 Duty to separate and confine diseased animals
Status: in_force

A person owning, possessing or controlling any livestock affected by any disease may not fail to keep the livestock within an enclosure, or herd them in some place where they are secure from contact with other livestock not so affected or permit the affected livestock to range where they will be likely to come in contact with other livestock not so affected. [Amended by 1955 c.557 §30; 1987 c.909 §3; 1995 c.20 §1; 1999 c.102 §4; 2001 c.22 §5; 2023 c.146 §5]

Source: Section 596.460 — Duty to separate and confine diseased animals , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 610.032 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 610 / Section 610.032
610.032 Refund of unexpended funds appropriated by county for predatory animal control
Status: in_force

Any unexpended and unobligated funds appropriated by a county court or board of county commissioners for the destruction, eradication or control of predatory animals under ORS 610.015 (County appropriations for destruction of predatory animals) or 610.025 (County appropriations matching state funds for control and eradication of predatory animals) may be refunded if the State Department of Agriculture finds that such funds are not necessary to carry out ORS 610.002 to 610.040 (Money from sale of skins) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) . [1959 c.541 §2; 1981 c.95 §3]

Source: Section 610.032 — Refund of unexpended funds appropriated by county for predatory animal control , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors610.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.325 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.325
609.325 Conditions for keeping exotic animal
Status: in_force

Any person who keeps an exotic animal shall keep the animal under conditions of confinement or control that, given the nature of the animal, would be imposed by a reasonable and prudent keeper to avoid physical or financial risk to the public as a result of escape of the animal or otherwise. [1985 c.437 §4; 1999 c.699 §7]

Source: Section 609.325 — Conditions for keeping exotic animal , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 608.310 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 608 / Section 608.310
608.310 Erecting and maintaining fences, crossings, gates and cattle guards
Status: in_force

(1) Every person, or the lessee or agent of the person, owning or operating any railroad, shall erect and maintain good and sufficient lawful fences on both sides of the railroad line, except at the crossings of and upon public roads and highways, within such portions of cities as are or may be laid out and platted in lots and blocks and at railroad station grounds. Such person shall also at the same time erect and maintain necessary farm crossings and gates and sufficient cattle guards at all public crossings.

(2) Railroad lines shall be so fenced and farm crossings, gates and cattle guards installed, within three months from the time such lines are put in operation. However, the Department of Transportation may prescribe by rule the number, location and character of farm crossings which may be necessary and the manner in which they shall be constructed so that they are reasonably adequate, safe, sufficient and convenient, but not so as to impair the terms of any contract between the landowner and the railroad or judgment in condemnation relative to such crossings.

(3) The Department of Transportation may, by rule, determine and prescribe any other description of fence than that designated as a lawful fence, which shall be constructed and maintained by any such railroad company between the points which are designated in such rule, and may provide for the apportionment of the costs of reconstruction necessitated thereby as between the parties interested.

(4) The Department of Transportation by rule may suspend the operation of this section as to any particular portion of any line of railroad. [Amended by 1971 c.655 §248; 1995 c.733 §46; 1997 c.249 §186; 2003 c.576 §524]

Source: Section 608.310 — Erecting and maintaining fences, crossings, gates and cattle guards; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors608.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.654 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.654
609.654 Public or private official reporting of aggravated animal abuse
Status: in_force

(1) Notwithstanding ORS 40.225 (Rule 503. Law practitioner-client privilege) to 40.295 (Rule 514. Effect on existing privileges) , a public or private official who has reasonable cause to believe that an animal with which the official has come in contact has suffered aggravated animal abuse, or that any person with whom the official has come in contact has committed aggravated animal abuse, may immediately report the suspected aggravated animal abuse in the manner prescribed in subsection (2) of this section.

(2) A report of suspected aggravated animal abuse authorized under subsection (1) of this section may be made to a law enforcement agency, either orally or in writing, and may include, if known:

(a) The name and description of each animal involved;

(b) The address and telephone number of the owner or other person responsible for the care of the animal;

(c) The nature and extent of the suspected abuse;

(d) Any evidence of previous aggravated animal abuse;

(e) Any explanation given for the suspected abuse; and

(f) Any other information that the person making the report believes may be helpful in establishing the cause of the suspected abuse or the identity of the person causing the abuse.

(3) A public or private official who acts in good faith and has reasonable grounds for making a report of suspected aggravated animal abuse under this section is not liable in any civil or criminal proceeding brought as a result of making the report. [2007 c.731 §3]

Source: Section 609.654 — Public or private official reporting of aggravated animal abuse; immunity , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 604.061 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 604 / Section 604.061
604.061 Transportation certificate
Status: in_force

(1) Cattle transported from the premises of the owner or person in lawful possession to another place in this state shall be accompanied by a transportation certificate.

(2) For the purposes of this section “transportation certificate” means a document signed by the owner or person in lawful possession of the cattle to be transported, on a form prescribed by the State Department of Agriculture, setting forth the identity of the cattle owner, the point of origin and destination of the cattle, the number of head, a description of the distinguishing characteristics of the cattle, including brands, tags, breed and sex, and an authorization to transport if it is to be performed by a person other than the owner.

(3) A transportation certificate is not required for cattle herded, drifted or trailed to or from pasture or range in this state in the usual course of ranch operation. [1981 c.248 §12]

Source: Section 604.061 — Transportation certificate , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors604.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.394 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.394
596.394 Summary quarantine of livestock and contaminated property imported into state from quarantined area
Status: in_force

(1) The State Department of Agriculture may order summary quarantine of any livestock and any property contaminated with disease or capable of transmitting the disease to other livestock or humans which have been imported into this state from any area under quarantine by the United States Department of Agriculture or by the state or territory of origin, if such livestock or property was removed from such area in violation of the rules of the United States Department of Agriculture or of the state or territory of origin.

(2) The department shall impose such conditions for release of quarantined livestock or property, not inconsistent with the rules of the United States Department of Agriculture, as are necessary to prevent the entry and spread of disease in this state.

(3) The department may also release quarantined livestock and property which were imported to the custody of the United States Department of Agriculture. [1955 c.557 §24]

Source: Section 596.394 — Summary quarantine of livestock and contaminated property imported into state from quarantined area; release thereof , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 601.990 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 601 / Section 601.990
601.990 Penalties
Status: in_force

(1) Subject to ORS 153.022 (Authority of agency to specify rule violation as particular level of violation) , violation of any provision of ORS 601.010 (Definitions) to 601.130 (Jurisdiction of courts) or any rule or regulation of the State Department of Agriculture made under ORS 601.010 (Definitions) to 601.130 (Jurisdiction of courts) , is a Class B violation.

(2) Violation of ORS 601.140 (Carcass of domestic animal to be buried or destroyed) is a Class D violation. [Amended by 1999 c.1051 §206]

Source: Section 601.990 — Penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors601.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.550 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.550
599.550 Milking dairy cows prior to sale
Status: in_force

No person shall sell or offer for sale for dairy purposes at public auction, any cows giving milk and intended to be used for dairy purposes, that have not been milked out entirely dry within not more than 12 hours preceding the opening of the sale at which such cows are offered for sale or sold.

Source: Section 599.550 — Milking dairy cows prior to sale , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.205 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.205
609.205 Prohibitions against keeping of wild or exotic animals
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding the provisions of ORS chapters 496, 497 and 498 relating to wildlife, and ORS 609.305 (“Exotic animal” defined) to 609.355 (Issuance of permit upon lapse of federal license or registration) and 609.992 (Penalties for ORS 609.341) relating to exotic animals, a city or county may prohibit by ordinance the keeping of wildlife, as defined in ORS 496.004 (Definitions) , and may prohibit by ordinance the keeping of exotic animals as defined in ORS 609.305 (“Exotic animal” defined) . [1977 c.802 §3; 1985 c.437 §9]

Source: Section 609.205 — Prohibitions against keeping of wild or exotic animals , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 608.320 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 608 / Section 608.320
608.320 Penalty for railroad refusing or failing to maintain fences, gates and guards
Status: in_force

(1) Any person shall forfeit and pay into the State Treasury the sum of $100 for each mile of fence on either side of a railroad, or for each farm crossing, gate or cattle guard which the person fails, neglects or refuses to erect and maintain in violation of ORS 608.310 (Erecting and maintaining fences, crossings, gates and cattle guards) . This shall be recovered as other penalties are recovered and paid into the State Treasury.

(2) If a person neglects or refuses to comply with ORS 608.310 (Erecting and maintaining fences, crossings, gates and cattle guards) to 608.330 (Leaving gate open) , the Attorney General or prosecuting attorney of the proper county may, by mandamus, compel compliance with such sections.

(3) The provisions of ORS 608.310 (Erecting and maintaining fences, crossings, gates and cattle guards) to 608.330 (Leaving gate open) are cumulative to existing remedies. [Amended by 1995 c.733 §47]

Source: Section 608.320 — Penalty for railroad refusing or failing to maintain fences, gates and guards , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors608.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.610 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.610
599.610 License requirements
Status: in_force

(1) Notwithstanding other laws to the contrary, any person desiring to conduct a temporary horse sale to which the public may consign horses for sale by auction open to public bidding and where such sale shall not exceed one calendar day may make application to the State Department of Agriculture for a temporary horse sale license.

(2) A temporary horse sale license shall be issued when the department finds:

(a) That an application as approved by the department has been received.

(b) That the applicant has filed with the department a bond as required by ORS 599.245 (Licensee’s bond) , an irrevocable letter of credit issued by an insured institution as defined in ORS 706.008 (Additional definitions for Bank Act) or a cash deposit with the department in lieu thereof, except that such bond, letter of credit or deposit may be limited to the period of operation of the temporary horse sale as approved by the department, and except that the bond, letter of credit or deposit shall be at least $25,000.

(c) That a license fee of $25 has been paid.

(d) That the requirements of ORS 599.610 (License requirements) to 599.640 (Compliance with ORS 599.610 and 599.620 required) and the rules promulgated thereunder are complied with.

(3) A separate application, license fee and adequate bond, letter of credit or deposit as required by subsection (2) of this section, is necessary for each day upon which horses are sold.

(4) A license shall not be required for the sale of horses by nonprofit breed or livestock associations or clubs, Future Farmer and 4-H groups, auction sales conducted in conjunction with county, state or private fairs or auction sales conducted by or for a person at which horses of such person’s ownership are sold on premises of the person or by a person licensed pursuant to the provisions of ORS 599.235 (License fee) and 599.401 (Livestock auction market license required) . [1959 c.63 §2; 1971 c.578 §17; 1981 c.248 §18; 1991 c.331 §91; 1997 c.631 §504]

Source: Section 599.610 — License requirements; fee; exemptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 601.110 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 601 / Section 601.110
601.110 Inspection of place of business or conveyance
Status: in_force

The State Department of Agriculture shall cause one or more of its officers, employees or deputies to inspect, as often as it may deem advisable, each place or conveyance licensed under ORS 601.050 (Investigation of place of business and applicant) or 601.080 (License for conveyance transporting dead animals) . However, each such place for disposal shall be inspected at least once during each license year. For the purpose of making such inspection, every authorized officer, employee and deputy of the department shall have free access to all premises licensed under such sections.

Source: Section 601.110 — Inspection of place of business or conveyance , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors601.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.210 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.210
596.210 Establishing office of State Veterinarian
Status: in_force

(1) There hereby is created within the State Department of Agriculture the office of State Veterinarian of the State of Oregon. The State Veterinarian shall be appointed by the Director of Agriculture. The State Veterinarian shall be the chief livestock sanitary official of the state. The department may also employ such assistant state veterinarians as may be necessary to carry out its functions.

(2) The State Veterinarian and all assistant veterinarians employed by the department shall be graduates of a school of veterinary medicine accredited or approved by the Oregon State Veterinary Medical Examining Board. [Amended by 1955 c.557 §7; 1959 c.639 §11; 1967 c.276 §1]

Source: Section 596.210 — Establishing office of State Veterinarian; qualifications and duties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.995 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.995
596.995 Civil penalties
Status: in_force

(1) Any manufacturer of an animal remedy, veterinary biologic or pharmaceutical who violates any provision of ORS 596.100 (Registration of products used for treatment of animals) or 596.105 (Products exempt from registration) applicable to manufacturers or any rule adopted pursuant thereto or the terms or conditions of any license, registration or order issued by the State Department of Agriculture under ORS 596.100 (Registration of products used for treatment of animals) or 596.105 (Products exempt from registration) shall be subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $2,500 per violation. Civil penalties under this section are in addition to any other penalty provided by law.

(2) Each violation may be a separate and distinct offense, and, in the case of a continuing violation, each day’s continuance thereof may be deemed a separate and distinct offense.

(3) The department shall adopt a schedule or schedules establishing the amount of civil penalty that may be imposed for a particular violation.

(4) Civil penalties under this section shall be imposed in the manner provided in ORS 183.745 (Civil penalty procedures) . [1991 c.584 §5; 1993 c.541 §2; 2001 c.104 §235]

Note: 596.995 (Civil penalties) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 596 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 596.995 — Civil penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 601.040 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 601 / Section 601.040
601.040 Application for license and payment of fee
Status: in_force

(1) Any person desiring to obtain a license to dispose of the bodies, carcasses or parts of animals shall file with the State Department of Agriculture an application for such license. The application shall be upon a form furnished by the department and shall contain such information as the department may, by rule and regulation, prescribe.

(2) At the time of filing, the applicant shall pay to the department a license fee of $50. All such fees shall be remitted by the department to the State Treasurer, who shall place all money so received in the Department of Agriculture Service Fund for the purpose of carrying into full force and effect ORS 601.010 (Definitions) to 601.130 (Jurisdiction of courts) . [Amended by 1979 c.499 §15]

Source: Section 601.040 — Application for license and payment of fee; rules; disposition of funds collected , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors601.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.155 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.155
609.155 Impoundment for harming or chasing livestock
Status: in_force

(1) In a county with a dog control program, upon finding a dog engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock or upon receipt from a complainant of evidence that a dog has been so engaged, the dog control officer or other law enforcement officer shall impound the dog.

(2) If there is reason to believe that reasonable testing of a dog impounded pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, including but not limited to a fecal examination or examination of the teeth of the dog, will provide substantial further evidence as to whether the dog has been engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock, the county shall provide for the administration of the tests by a licensed veterinarian.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) After the completion of tests administered pursuant to subsection (2) of this section and allowing an opportunity for a hearing under ORS 609.158 (Hearing process) , the county shall determine whether the dog has been engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock. If the county determines that the dog has been so engaged, the county shall take action as provided under ORS 609.162 (Guidelines for imposing remedial measures, civil penalties or other sanctions) and 609.163 (Enhanced civil penalties for habitual violators) . In addition to any action taken under ORS 609.162 (Guidelines for imposing remedial measures, civil penalties or other sanctions) and 609.163 (Enhanced civil penalties for habitual violators) , the county may require that the dog owner pay the costs of keeping and testing the dog during impoundment. If the county determines that the dog has not been engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock, the dog shall be released to its owner and, if the dog had been impounded upon receipt of evidence from a complainant, the complainant shall pay the costs of keeping and testing the dog during the impoundment.

(b) Notwithstanding ORS 609.090 (Impounding certain dogs) , a dog impounded pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall not be released until a determination is made by the county pursuant to this subsection. [1975 c.749 §4; 1977 c.802 §9; 1999 c.756 §20]

Source: Section 609.155 — Impoundment for harming or chasing livestock; determination of fact; costs , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 603.992 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 603 / Section 603.992
603.992 Penalties
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsections (2) and (3) of this section, violation of this chapter, or rules promulgated thereunder, is a misdemeanor.

(2) Violation of ORS 603.065 (Slaughter methods) is a Class B misdemeanor.

(3) Violation of ORS 603.059 (Unclean slaughterhouses prohibited) is a Class D violation. If the nuisance is not removed within five days after the first offense, it is considered a second offense, and every like neglect of each succeeding five days thereafter is considered an additional offense. [1973 c.175 §12; 1981 c.248 §29; 1982 s.s.1 c.4 §3; 2001 c.104 §237]

Source: Section 603.992 — Penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors603.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 600.010 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 600 / Section 600.010
600.010 Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 600.095 (Garbage used in feeding swine) and 600.105 (Summary quarantine of swine being fed impermissible garbage or offal) :

(1) “Garbage” means waste accumulations of vegetable matter.

(2) “Offal” means animal tissue of any kind and from any source. [Amended by 1953 c.384 §7; 1971 c.78 §1; 2001 c.21 §2]

Source: Section 600.010 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors600.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.080 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.080
607.080 Bison at large in livestock district prohibited
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding the contents of any livestock district application described in ORS 607.018 (Livestock district creation or annexation) , an owner or possessor of bison or bison hybrids may not permit the bison or bison hybrids to run at large. [2013 c.312 §3; 2019 c.450 §8]

Source: Section 607.080 — Bison at large in livestock district prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 610.010 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 610 / Section 610.010
610.010 Cooperation with United States Department of Agriculture
Status: in_force

The State Department of Agriculture shall enter into definite cooperative agreements with the United States Department of Agriculture, prescribing the manner, terms and conditions of such cooperation and the amounts which the state and federal governments will contribute thereto. [Amended by 1959 c.240 §4; 1989 c.750 §2]

Source: Section 610.010 — Cooperation with United States Department of Agriculture , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors610.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 604.051 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 604 / Section 604.051
604.051 Method of proof of ownership
Status: in_force

(1) Whenever livestock or hides are subject to brand inspection under ORS 604.046 (Brand inspection and certificate requirements) , the person in possession shall submit evidence of ownership or right to possession of the livestock or hides at the request of the State Department of Agriculture. The evidence may consist of any documents and statements that tend to establish such ownership or right to possession. The prima facie character of a recorded brand and the disputable presumption against unrecorded brands set forth in ORS 604.035 (Property rights applicable to recorded brand) (2), shall be given recognition by the department.

(2) The department shall examine livestock or hides, review any evidence submitted pursuant to subsection (1) of this section and otherwise perform brand inspection to determine whether the person in possession is the owner or lawful possessor thereof. Except for brand inspections made under ORS 604.046 (Brand inspection and certificate requirements) (4), if the department determines the person is the owner or lawful possessor, it shall issue an appropriate brand inspection certificate. However, if the department determines there is a question of ownership or right to possession of the livestock or hides, or if the person in possession of the livestock or hides fails to submit the evidence requested under subsection (1) of this section, the department shall refuse to issue its brand inspection certificate and may undertake any of the actions described in ORS 604.056 (Seizure of hides or livestock) . [1981 c.248 §10]

Source: Section 604.051 — Method of proof of ownership; inspection certificate , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors604.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 601.060 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 601 / Section 601.060
601.060 License limitations
Status: in_force

Any licenses issued under ORS 601.050 (Investigation of place of business and applicant) or 601.080 (License for conveyance transporting dead animals) shall be nontransferable by the licensee and shall apply to only one place of business or conveyance, as specified in the license. Any licensee, operating more than one place of business or conveyance shall obtain a separate license for each such place or conveyance.

Source: Section 601.060 — License limitations , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors601.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.431 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.431
599.431 Renewal of license
Status: in_force

An application for renewal of a license may be granted by the State Department of Agriculture without a hearing. If in the judgment of the department it would be in the public interest to hold a hearing to determine whether a renewal license should be granted, or upon written request by a member of the board, or if in the judgment of the department the renewal license should not be granted, a hearing shall be held pursuant to ORS 599.416 (Hearing on license application) , and in that case the provisions of ORS 599.421 (Matters to be considered in granting licenses) and 599.426 (Issuance or denial of license) shall also be applicable. [1971 c.578 §8]

Source: Section 599.431 — Renewal of license; when hearing is required , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 610.060 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 610 / Section 610.060
610.060 Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control
Status: in_force

Except as provided in ORS 498.062 (Takings of beaver by owners of forestland) , nothing in the wildlife laws is intended to deny the right of any person to control predatory animals as provided in ORS 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) . [1971 c.658 §28; 1973 c.723 §126; 1975 c.214 §2; 1975 c.791 §3; 2022 c.33 §26]

Note: The amendments to 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) by section 75, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, become operative only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 61 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (third note following 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ). 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) , as amended by section 75, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, is set forth for the user’s convenience.

610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) . Nothing in the wildlife laws is intended to deny the right of any person to control predatory animals as provided in ORS 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) .

Source: Section 610.060 — Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors610.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.415 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.415
609.415 Animal rescue entities
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section and ORS 609.420 (Investigation and inspection of animal rescue entity) :

(a) “Animal” means any nonhuman mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian or fish.

(b) “Animal rescue entity” means an individual or organization, including but not limited to an animal control agency, humane society, animal shelter, animal sanctuary or boarding kennel not subject to ORS 167.374 (Possession or control of dogs for purpose of reproduction) , but excluding a veterinary facility, that keeps, houses and maintains in the individual’s or organization’s legal custody 10 or more animals, whether physically located at a facility operated by the individual or organization or kept, housed or maintained elsewhere, and that solicits or accepts donations in any form.

(c) “Enforcing agency” means the State Veterinarian.

(2) Any animal rescue entity shall comply with all of the following record-keeping requirements:

(a) Maintain a record for each animal that identifies:

(A) The date of birth for the animal or, if the date of birth is unknown, the approximate age of the animal;

(B) The date the animal rescue entity acquired possession, control or charge of the animal and the source of the animal;

(C) The number of offspring the animal produced while in the possession or control of the animal rescue entity, if applicable;

(D) The disposition the animal rescue entity makes of each animal possessed by, controlled by or in the charge of the animal rescue entity, including the date of disposition, manner of disposition and the name and address for any individual or organization taking possession, control or charge of an animal;

(E) The source of the animal, date of acquisition, age, sex, breed type and weight of the animal at intake; and

(F) A photograph of the animal taken within 24 hours of intake by the animal rescue entity.

(b) Permit an authorized representative of the enforcing agency to inspect records of the animal rescue entity required by this subsection and furnish reports and information required by the enforcing agency, as provided under ORS 609.420 (Investigation and inspection of animal rescue entity) .

(3) An animal rescue entity shall comply with the following licensing requirements:

(a) The entity shall obtain a license issued by the enforcing agency in accordance with this section and any rules or policies adopted by the enforcing agency; and

(b) The entity shall pay a reasonable fee, as determined by the enforcing agency, for a license or an annual renewal of the license to provide for the actual cost of enforcing this section and ORS 609.420 (Investigation and inspection of animal rescue entity) .

(4) The enforcing agency may not issue or renew a license under this section unless the animal rescue entity is in compliance with this section and ORS 609.420 (Investigation and inspection of animal rescue entity) .

(5) An animal rescue entity may transfer a license issued under this section to another person with the written consent of the enforcing agency, provided that the transferee otherwise qualifies to be licensed as an animal rescue entity under this section and rules applicable to the transferee and does not have a certified unpaid debt to the state. The transferee shall submit a signed release to the enforcing agency permitting the performance of a background investigation of the transferee, and the enforcing agency shall conduct the background investigation.

(6) An applicant for a license issued under this section shall demonstrate that the animal rescue entity that is the subject of the application complies with all standards imposed under applicable law.

(7) Any animal rescue entity is subject to inspection by the enforcing agency as provided in ORS 609.420 (Investigation and inspection of animal rescue entity) .

(8) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) A violation of this section may result in imposition of civil penalties to be determined by the enforcing agency, including but not limited to impoundment of all animals under the animal rescue’s control, the revocation of the animal rescue’s license to operate animal rescue operations and a civil penalty of not more than $500 for each violation.

(b) Before a civil penalty may be imposed under this section, the enforcing agency shall adopt rules or policies that:

(A) Ensure that a person who is the subject of an alleged violation receives notice of the allegations and potential imposition of civil penalties;

(B) Allow for an opportunity for a hearing prior to the imposition of civil penalties; and

(C) Allow for the opportunity for judicial review of the imposition of civil penalties.

(9) Moneys raised by the enforcing agency under this section are dedicated to and shall be used for enforcing agency operations undertaken pursuant to this section and ORS 609.420 (Investigation and inspection of animal rescue entity) . [2013 c.719 §10; 2015 c.267 §1; 2019 c.557 §1]

Source: Section 609.415 — Animal rescue entities; licensing; records; fees; rules; civil penalty , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 602.045 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 602 / Section 602.045
602.045 Local ordinances
Status: in_force

A local government may:

(1) Adopt ordinances consistent with the best practices described in ORS 602.035 (Beekeeping within residential areas) ; and

(2) Charge a reasonable fee for registering hives in residential areas. The fee that a local government charges for registering hives in residential areas may not exceed the amount charged under State Department of Agriculture rules for the registration of colonies that are subject to fees under ORS 602.090 (Registration of bee colonies) (3). [2015 c.823 §3; 2017 c.52 §2]

Source: Section 602.045 — Local ordinances; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors602.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.190 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.190
609.190 Subrogation of county paying claim
Status: in_force

In each case where a claim against the Dog License Fund of any county has been paid by the dog control board or county governing body, the county shall be subrogated to all the rights of the livestock owner against the dog owner for damages. The district attorney shall proceed promptly, in a lawful way, to collect for those damages. Any money so collected shall be paid over immediately to the treasurer of the county and credited to the Dog License Fund. [Amended by 1975 c.749 §9; 1977 c.802 §12; 1999 c.756 §24]

Source: Section 609.190 — Subrogation of county paying claim; collection by district attorney , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.650 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.650
609.650 Legislative findings
Status: in_force

The Legislative Assembly finds that:

(1) There is a clear link between animal cruelty and crimes of domestic violence, including child abuse; and

(2) It is in the public interest to enact legislation to encourage the permissive reporting of animal cruelty. [2007 c.731 §1]

Source: Section 609.650 — Legislative findings , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.235 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.235
599.235 License fee
Status: in_force

(1) Subject to the provisions of subsection (2) of this section, every person operating a livestock auction market in this state shall be required to pay on or before June 30, annually, a fee of $100 to the State Department of Agriculture for a license to operate such market for the year beginning July 1 next following. If a person operates a livestock auction market facility in more than one location, a separate license must be obtained for each such facility. Except for fees paid under ORS 599.269 (Brand inspection required prior to public auction of cattle) , all fees provided for under the provisions of this chapter shall be paid into the Department of Agriculture Service Fund and hereby are continuously appropriated for use in the administration of this chapter.

(2) In the case of an application for a license made after September 30 of a license year, and only in such cases, the license fee submitted with the application shall be prorated on the basis of the number of quarters of three months each or portions of a quarter remaining in the license year. The fee accompanying such applications shall be $25 for each such quarter or portion thereof. For the purposes of this section, the license year shall be the period July 1 to June 30 next following. Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize a refund of license fees in any case.

(3) The licensee shall at all times have posted in a conspicuous place in the main business office of such market the full names and addresses of the legal owners of the market. The livestock auction market operator’s license shall also be posted conspicuously in the main business office of the market. [1953 c.677 §5; 1971 c.578 §11; 1979 c.499 §13]

Source: Section 599.235 — License fee; appropriation of moneys; separate licenses for each facility; posting license and names of owners , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.220 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.220
596.220 Deputy state veterinarians
Status: in_force

(1) The State Department of Agriculture may deputize certain veterinarians throughout the state to assist the State Department of Agriculture in carrying out its duties. Such veterinarians shall be known as deputy state veterinarians. They shall be in the unclassified service of the state or may furnish professional services to the department as provided by ORS 596.225 (Contracting for services of deputy state veterinarian) . To be eligible for appointment as a deputy state veterinarian a person shall be licensed to practice veterinary medicine in Oregon or hold a valid temporary permit issued by the Oregon State Veterinary Medical Examining Board as authorized by the provisions of ORS 686.065 (Issuance of temporary license to certain applicants) or 686.085 (Serving internship before being eligible for license) .

(2) A person desiring an appointment as deputy state veterinarian shall apply to the department on forms provided by it. The department may require on the application all pertinent information it deems necessary. In the discretion of the department, veterinarians employed by the United States Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Animal Industry, may be appointed deputy state veterinarians without further requirement if it appears to the department that any communicable or contagious disease of livestock may be more effectively controlled or eradicated by joint federal and state action. [Amended by 1959 c.639 §12; 1961 c.219 §1]

Source: Section 596.220 — Deputy state veterinarians , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.328 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.328
607.328 Procedure for sale of estray animal
Status: in_force

(1) The State Department of Agriculture shall cause an estray animal to be sold at public sale if:

(a) The department is unable to determine in a timely manner the owner of the animal under ORS 607.321 (Investigation by department upon receipt of notice) ;

(b) The estray animal of a known owner is delivered to the department under ORS 607.304 (Delivery of estray animal to department or owner) (1) or (8); or

(c) The estray animal of a known owner is delivered to the department under ORS 607.308 (Alternative procedure for person taking up estray animal) , and sale of the animal is required because of the owner’s failure to appear and claim the animal as provided in ORS 607.332 (Claim by owner before sale) .

(2) Prior to the holding of any public sale, as provided in subsection (1) of this section, the department shall:

(a) Designate a time and place of public sale. Subject to any other sale date restrictions, the sale shall be held not less than five days after the department receives the notice of taking up.

(b) Cause a notice of the public sale to be given by posting a written or printed notice of the time and place of sale, a description of the animal and that such sale shall take place if the animal is not claimed by the owner prior to the sale. The posting shall be in two public places of the county where the animal was taken up for not less than 48 hours prior to the date of sale. If the department is satisfied that adequate notice has been given an owner pursuant to ORS 607.303 (Owner or lessee of property taking up estray animal) (2), notice need not be posted. [1971 c.579 §5; 1975 c.65 §6; 1981 c.413 §3; 2007 c.71 §182; 2009 c.336 §9]

Source: Section 607.328 — Procedure for sale of estray animal; notice , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 604.036 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 604 / Section 604.036
604.036 Copy of recordation certificate
Status: in_force

Upon recording of a brand under ORS 604.027 (Application to record brand) , the State Department of Agriculture may:

(1) Issue a certified copy of its certificate of recordation upon the payment of a fee therefor to be established by the department; and

(2) Periodically publish brand books or supplements thereto, and distribute them upon payment of a fee to be established by the department sufficient to cover its costs therefor. [1981 c.248 §7]

Source: Section 604.036 — Copy of recordation certificate; brand books , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors604.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.265 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.265
599.265 Market zone
Status: in_force

(1) All property owned or controlled by a person licensed to operate a livestock auction market which is contiguous to, and used in conjunction with the operation of, the market shall be the market zone of such market.

(2) All livestock entering the market zone must be handled and sold through the facilities of the market and must comply with the provisions of this chapter and the regulations promulgated thereunder. [1953 c.677 §7; 1971 c.578 §14]

Source: Section 599.265 — Market zone; livestock entering market zone to be sold through auction facilities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.470 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.470
596.470 Health certificates for disease-free animals
Status: in_force

Whenever any official examination is made by any person authorized so to do by the State Department of Agriculture, of any livestock and such livestock is found free from contagious, infectious and communicable disease, the person making such examination shall make and deliver to the owner or person in possession of such livestock, a certificate to that effect, under such rules and regulations and in such form as the department may prescribe. Whenever an examination or test is made as to any particular disease and the livestock is found free therefrom, a certificate of that fact shall be given to the owner. [Amended by 1955 c.557 §31]

Source: Section 596.470 — Health certificates for disease-free animals , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 603.995 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 603 / Section 603.995
603.995 Civil penalties
Status: in_force

(1) In addition to any penalty available under ORS 561.190 (Rules and regulations) or 603.992 (Penalties) , the State Department of Agriculture may impose a civil penalty for a violation of this chapter or of rules adopted under this chapter. For the purposes of this section, each day a violation continues after the period of time established for compliance shall be considered a separate violation unless the department finds that a different period of time is more appropriate to describe a specific violation event.

(2) The department may adopt rules establishing a schedule of civil penalties that may be imposed under this section. Civil penalties imposed under this section may not exceed $10,000 for each violation.

(3) When the department imposes a civil penalty under subsection (1) of this section, the department shall impose the penalty in the manner provided by ORS 183.745 (Civil penalty procedures) , except that the written application for a hearing must be received by the department no later than 10 days after the date of mailing or personal service of the notice of civil penalty.

(4) Moneys received by the department from civil penalties imposed under this section shall be deposited in the General Fund to the credit of the Department of Agriculture Account. [2009 c.175 §5]

Source: Section 603.995 — Civil penalties; rules; disposition of penalty moneys , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors603.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 602.010 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 602 / Section 602.010
602.010 Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, the term:

(1) “Apiary” and “apiary property” includes bees, honey, beeswax, bee comb, hives, frames and other equipment, appliances and material used in connection with an apiary.

(2) “Appliances” means any implement or device used in the manipulating of bees or their brood or hives, which may be used in any apiary.

(3) “Bees” means honey-producing insects of the genus Apis and includes the adults, eggs, larvae, pupae or other immature stages thereof, together with such materials as are deposited into hives by their adults, except honey and beeswax in rendered form.

(4) “Colony” or “colonies of bees” refers to any hive occupied by bees.

(5) “Department” means the State Department of Agriculture.

(6) “Disease” means pests, disease or any condition affecting bees or their brood.

(7) “Hive” means any receptacle or container made or prepared for use of bees, or box or similar container taken possession of by bees.

(8) “Location” means the premises upon which an apiary is located.

(9) “Nucleus colony” means a colony that is used primarily to produce new queens or workers for the purpose of starting a new colony or adding to an existing colony.

(10) “Person” includes any individual, partnership, association or corporation, but does not include any common carrier when engaged in the business of transporting bees, hives, appliances, bee cages or other commodities which are the subject of this chapter, in the regular course of business. [Amended by 1961 c.177 §1; 1963 c.65 §1; 1989 c.738 §5; 1993 c.350 §1; 2017 c.52 §1]

Source: Section 602.010 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors602.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.652 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.652
609.652 Definitions for ORS 609.654
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 609.654 (Public or private official reporting of aggravated animal abuse) :

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) “Aggravated animal abuse” means any animal abuse as described in ORS 167.322 (Aggravated animal abuse in the first degree) .

(b) “Aggravated animal abuse” does not include:

(A) Good animal husbandry, as defined in ORS 167.310 (Definitions for ORS 167.310 to 167.351) ; or

(B) Any exemption listed in ORS 167.335 (Exemption from ORS 167.315 to 167.333) .

(2) “Law enforcement agency” means:

(a) Any city or municipal police department.

(b) A police department established by a university under ORS 352.121 (University police departments and officers) or 353.125 (Creation of police department and commission of police officers) .

(c) Any county sheriff’s office.

(d) The Oregon State Police.

(e) A law enforcement division of a county or municipal animal control agency that employs sworn officers.

(f) A humane investigation agency as defined in ORS 181A.340 (Commissioning of humane special agents) that employs humane special agents commissioned under ORS 181A.340 (Commissioning of humane special agents) .

(3) “Public or private official” means:

(a) A physician, including any intern or resident.

(b) A dentist.

(c) A school employee.

(d) A licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.

(e) An employee of the Department of Human Services, Oregon Health Authority, Department of Early Learning and Care, Youth Development Division, the Oregon Youth Authority, a local health department, a community mental health program, a community developmental disabilities program, a county juvenile department, a child-caring agency as defined in ORS 418.205 (Definitions for ORS 418.205 to 418.327, 418.330, 418.470, 418.475, 418.950 to 418.970 and 418.992 to 418.998) or an alcohol and drug treatment program.

(f) A peace officer.

(g) A psychologist.

(h) A member of the clergy.

(i) A regulated social worker.

(j) An optometrist.

(k) A chiropractor.

(L) A certified provider of foster care, or an employee thereof.

(m) An attorney.

(n) A naturopathic physician.

(o) A licensed professional counselor.

(p) A licensed marriage and family therapist.

(q) A firefighter or emergency medical services provider.

(r) A court appointed special advocate, as defined in ORS 419A.004 (Definitions) .

(s) A child care provider registered or certified under ORS 329A.250 (Definitions for ORS 329A.030, 329A.250 to 329A.450 and 329A.500) to 329A.450 (Assistance to staff of facility) .

(t) A member of the Legislative Assembly. [2007 c.731 §2; 2009 c.442 §42; 2009 c.595 §990; 2011 c.506 §44; 2011 c.703 §43; 2012 c.37 §66; 2012 c.67 §15; 2013 c.180 §48; 2013 c.623 §20; 2013 c.624 §35; 2015 c.736 §105; 2016 c.106 §54; 2021 c.631 §60; 2022 c.27 §18; 2023 c.554 §55]

Source: Section 609.652 — Definitions for ORS 609.654 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.990 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.990
609.990 Penalties for ORS 609.060, 609.095, 609.098, 609.100, 609.169 and 609.405
Status: in_force

(1) Violation of ORS 609.060 (Notice of county prohibition on dogs running at large) (2), 609.100 (Dog licenses, tags and fees) or 609.169 (Keeping dog with knowledge that it has harmed livestock) is a Class B violation.

(2) Maintaining a public nuisance in violation of ORS 609.095 (Dog as public nuisance) (2) or (3) is a Class B violation.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, violation of ORS 609.098 (Maintaining dangerous dog) is a Class A misdemeanor.

(b) If a dog kills a person, violation of ORS 609.098 (Maintaining dangerous dog) is a Class C felony.

(c) If a keeper violates ORS 609.098 (Maintaining dangerous dog) , the court shall order the dangerous dog killed in a humane manner.

(4) Violation of ORS 609.405 (Requirement for destroying dogs and cats) constitutes a Class C misdemeanor.

(5) In addition to any fine or sentence imposed under this section, a court may order a person who violates ORS 609.060 (Notice of county prohibition on dogs running at large) (2), 609.095 (Dog as public nuisance) , 609.098 (Maintaining dangerous dog) , 609.100 (Dog licenses, tags and fees) , 609.169 (Keeping dog with knowledge that it has harmed livestock) or 609.405 (Requirement for destroying dogs and cats) to pay restitution for any physical injury, death or property damage caused by the dog as a result of the keeper’s violation of ORS 609.060 (Notice of county prohibition on dogs running at large) (2), 609.095 (Dog as public nuisance) , 609.098 (Maintaining dangerous dog) , 609.100 (Dog licenses, tags and fees) , 609.169 (Keeping dog with knowledge that it has harmed livestock) or 609.405 (Requirement for destroying dogs and cats) . The court may also order the person to pay the cost of keeping the dog in impoundment.

(6) In addition to any fine imposed or restitution ordered of a keeper for a violation of ORS 609.060 (Notice of county prohibition on dogs running at large) (2), 609.095 (Dog as public nuisance) , 609.100 (Dog licenses, tags and fees) , 609.169 (Keeping dog with knowledge that it has harmed livestock) or 609.405 (Requirement for destroying dogs and cats) , the court may impose reasonable restrictions on the keeping of the dog to ensure the safety or health of the public. The keeper must pay the cost of complying with reasonable restrictions. As used in this subsection, “reasonable restrictions” may include, but is not limited to, sterilization. If the dog is a potentially dangerous dog, the court may order the dog killed in a humane manner. In determining whether to have the dog killed, the court shall give consideration to the factors described in ORS 609.093 (Considerations prior to disposing of chasing, menacing or biting dog) and issue written findings on those factors.

(7) Notwithstanding ORS 19.270 (Appellate jurisdiction of Supreme Court and Court of Appeals) and 19.330 (Stays generally) , subject to periodic advance payment of the cost of keeping the dog in impoundment, the killing of a dog pursuant to an order under subsection (3) or (6) of this section may not be carried out during the period that the order is subject to the appeal process. Unless otherwise ordered by the Court of Appeals, the dog may be killed during the appeal period if the keeper fails to maintain advance payment of the cost of keeping the dog impounded.

(8) If a court orders a dog killed under subsection (6) of this section and the keeper does not make the dog available for that purpose, the court may issue a search warrant for a property upon probable cause to believe that the dog is located at that property. [Amended by 1963 c.237 §2; 1965 c.499 §2; 1967 c.495 §3; 1973 c.655 §6; 1977 c.802 §13; subsection (3) enacted as 1985 c.289 §2(3); 1999 c.658 §§12,12a; 1999 c.1051 §§208,322b; 2001 c.636 §11; 2005 c.840 §8; 2011 c.597 §249]

Source: Section 609.990 — Penalties for ORS 609.060, 609.095, 609.098, 609.100, 609.169 and 609.405; disposition of dog by court , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.168 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.168
609.168 Microchip identification of dog
Status: in_force

(1) A county shall implant an identifying microchip into a dog described in ORS 609.162 (Guidelines for imposing remedial measures, civil penalties or other sanctions) that is not put to death. Implantation shall be made prior to any adoption or relocation of the dog. The State Department of Agriculture, by rule, shall prescribe standards for microchip implantation. The county making an implantation shall forward the microchip information and the record of the dog to the department.

(2) The department shall maintain the record for a dog implanted with a microchip under this section for a reasonable period and shall make the record available to any county upon request.

(3) The county and the department may charge reasonable fees to the dog owner to cover the cost of conducting and administering the microchip implantation program. [1999 c.756 §9]

Source: Section 609.168 — Microchip identification of dog; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.295 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.295
599.295 Pens for diseased animals
Status: in_force

(1) The licensee shall provide separate pens of suitable size which shall be designated as quarantine pens which shall be floored with concrete or some other impervious material and constructed so as to allow for efficient drainage and cleaning. These pens shall be used for all animals coming into the market zone which are found to be infected with brucellosis or other contagious, infectious or communicable diseases. These pens shall be used only for the detention of diseased animals and shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the regulations of the State Department of Agriculture.

(2) The fact that an animal is placed in a quarantine pen under subsection (1) of this section does not entitle the owner to be paid indemnity for the animal; but this subsection is not intended to affect the payment of indemnity where the owner is entitled to indemnity payments as otherwise provided by law. [1953 c.677 §10; 1957 c.390 §3]

Source: Section 599.295 — Pens for diseased animals , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.560 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.560
599.560 Affidavits as to time of milking
Status: in_force

Any person selling or offering for sale any cows in milk at public auction, intended to be used for dairy purposes, shall file with the auctioneer of the sale the affidavits of two freeholders to the effect that they have knowledge that such cows have been milked entirely dry within the time specified by ORS 599.550 (Milking dairy cows prior to sale) .

Source: Section 599.560 — Affidavits as to time of milking , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.336 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.336
607.336 Title of purchaser at sale
Status: in_force

The purchaser of an animal sold in accordance with ORS 607.328 (Procedure for sale of estray animal) shall have clear and absolute title to the animal. [1953 c.367 §8; 1975 c.65 §8; 2009 c.336 §11]

Source: Section 607.336 — Title of purchaser at sale , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 610.030 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 610 / Section 610.030
610.030 Apportionment of money appropriated by state to eradicate animals
Status: in_force

(1) The State Department of Agriculture shall apportion any money appropriated by the Legislative Assembly for the purpose set forth in ORS 610.025 (County appropriations matching state funds for control and eradication of predatory animals) , among the counties according to the necessity for control and eradication of predatory animals and the financial cooperation received from the counties.

(2) Moneys paid or forwarded pursuant to ORS 610.025 (County appropriations matching state funds for control and eradication of predatory animals) by the county court of any county to the State Department of Agriculture, and moneys allotted by the State Department of Agriculture for expenditure within any county, hereby are appropriated continuously for and shall be expended only in the control of coyotes and other harmful predatory animals within the boundaries of the county in accordance with the terms and conditions fixed by the State Department of Agriculture and the United States Department of Agriculture, unless otherwise authorized by the county court. [Amended by 1953 c.606 §4; 1965 c.485 §2; 1989 c.750 §5; 1999 c.59 §182]

Source: Section 610.030 — Apportionment of money appropriated by state to eradicate animals , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors610.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.050 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.050
596.050 Production of bacteriological or biological products for department
Status: in_force

The Oregon agricultural experiment station, the College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University or the State Department of Agriculture may make, produce or furnish bacteriological or biological products to be used by the department for the treatment, prevention or detection of animal disease. If either the experiment station or the College of Veterinary Medicine furnishes the products, the station or the college may do so directly to the department and shall produce and furnish such products at actual or approximate cost. Such cost shall be paid by the department out of funds available for that purpose. All money obtained by the department from the sale of such biological or bacteriological products shall be used by the department to pay such costs and for making, producing or furnishing such products, and is continuously appropriated to the department for that purpose. [Amended by 1981 c.681 §1; 2003 c.14 §355]

Source: Section 596.050 — Production of bacteriological or biological products for department; use of proceeds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 599.285 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 599 / Section 599.285
599.285 Floors in pens
Status: in_force

All pens used in livestock auction markets for holding dairy cattle and hogs and all alleyways between such pens shall be floored with concrete or some other impervious material. All such pens and alleys shall be sloped or otherwise constructed to permit adequate drainage. Such pens and alleyways and also fences, food racks and watering troughs shall be constructed so as to allow proper cleaning and sanitation. All such pens, alleyways, fences, food racks and watering troughs or other equipment shall be cleaned and disinfected after each sale or, in the case of a continuous sale, as often as may be prescribed by the State Department of Agriculture. [1953 c.677 §9]

Source: Section 599.285 — Floors in pens; drainage; cleaning pens, alleyways and equipment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors599.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.341 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.341
607.341 Jurisdiction of courts
Status: in_force

Justice courts shall have concurrent jurisdiction with circuit courts of proceedings brought on violations of ORS 607.303 (Owner or lessee of property taking up estray animal) to 607.341 (Jurisdiction of courts) . [1953 c.367 §11]

Source: Section 607.341 — Jurisdiction of courts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.994 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.994
609.994 Penalties for ORS 609.510 to 609.520
Status: in_force

(1) Violation of ORS 609.510 (Animal dealers required to keep records) , 609.515 (Required period of possession of animal by dealer) or 609.520 (Inspection of dealer records) is a specific fine violation punishable by a fine of not more than $50,000.

(2) A person has a cause of action for the recovery of compensatory damages from any person violating ORS 164.055 (Theft in the first degree) (1)(e), 164.085 (Theft by deception) , 609.510 (Animal dealers required to keep records) , 609.515 (Required period of possession of animal by dealer) or 609.520 (Inspection of dealer records) . In the action, the minimum pecuniary value of any companion animal is $250.

(3) The circuit court for each county has the authority to enjoin any violation of ORS 609.510 (Animal dealers required to keep records) , 609.515 (Required period of possession of animal by dealer) or 609.520 (Inspection of dealer records) , to issue warrants and to take such other actions as equity or justice may require. [1991 c.837 §8; 1995 c.658 §111; 2011 c.597 §250]

Source: Section 609.994 — Penalties for ORS 609.510 to 609.520; cause of action for damages; injunctions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.365 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.365
607.365 Driving domestic animals from range
Status: in_force

(1) No person, who is not the owner of such animal, shall take or drive, cause to be taken or driven, or assist in driving or taking away any horse, gelding, mare, foal, mule, ass, jenny, bull, cow, heifer, steer, calf, sheep, hog or any other domestic animal from the range or place where it is lawfully grazing, pasturing or ranging, or in the habit of ranging, or where it has been herded or placed by the owner thereof, for a distance of more than 10 miles from such place.

(2) Persons violating this section shall be liable to the owner of such animal for all damages sustained by reason of such driving or taking away of such domestic animal. [Formerly 606.210; 2011 c.597 §246]

Source: Section 607.365 — Driving domestic animals from range , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 603.065 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 603 / Section 603.065
603.065 Slaughter methods
Status: in_force

(1) Cattle, equines, sheep or swine shall be slaughtered by a licensee and handled in connection with slaughter, by any method which:

(a) Renders each such animal insensible to pain by a single blow or gunshot or by an electrical, chemical or other means that is rapid and effective, before the animal is shackled, hoisted, thrown, cast or cut; or

(b) Is in accordance with the ritual requirements of any religious faith that prescribes a method of slaughter whereby the animal suffers loss of consciousness by anemia of the brain caused by the simultaneous and instantaneous severance of the carotid arteries with a sharp instrument.

(2) No licensee engaged in the slaughter of animals described in subsection (1) of this section shall slaughter by any method other than therein described, nor shall shackle, hoist, or otherwise bring such animals not previously rendered insensible to pain in accordance with subsection (1) of this section into position for slaughter by any method which shall cause injury or pain. [1973 c.175 §11]

Source: Section 603.065 — Slaughter methods , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors603.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 603.045 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 603 / Section 603.045
603.045 Custom slaughter and processing regulations
Status: in_force

A custom slaughtering establishment or a custom processing establishment shall:

(1) Not buy or sell carcasses of meat animals, meat or meat products capable of use as human food unless such are marked, tagged or otherwise identified as inspected meat or meat products as required by ORS chapter 619.

(2) Mark, tag or otherwise identify all individually wrapped packages or containers of meat or meat products slaughtered or prepared for the owner of a meat animal, at the time and in the manner prescribed by the State Department of Agriculture, so as to protect the people of this state from the purchase, use or consumption of uninspected or unwholesome meat or meat products. In addition to such marking, tagging and identifying as the department may prescribe, each such package or container shall be marked with the words “Not Inspected” and “Not For Sale” in letters at least three-eighths inch in size.

(3) Provide the owner of the meat animal with a certificate, prescribed by the department, giving the accurate weight of the carcass resulting from the slaughter of such animal and the weight of the resulting product delivered to the owner.

(4) Provide the owner of the meat animal with certificate and tags, prescribed by the department, establishing ownership of said carcass.

(5) Record, and deliver to the department as it directs:

(a) An accurate description of the breed characteristics and the brand or marks of each animal slaughtered.

(b) The name and address of the person from whom each such animal was received and the date thereof.

(c) The name and address of the person to whom the meat products of each such animal were delivered upon completion of the slaughter or preparation and the date thereof.

(6) Maintain and only utilize an establishment and equipment in accordance with rules promulgated by the department.

(7) Prepare and maintain records of all meat animals received by the establishment for slaughter. Such records shall include:

(a) The number and kind of poultry or rabbits or, in the case of other meat animals, an accurate description of the breed characteristics and the brand or marks of such other meat animal, slaughtered.

(b) The name and address of the person from whom each such animal was received and the date thereof.

(c) The name and address of the person to whom the meat products of each such animal were delivered upon completion of the slaughter and the date thereof. [1973 c.175 §6; 1977 c.758 §1]

Source: Section 603.045 — Custom slaughter and processing regulations , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors603.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.681 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.681
596.681 Limit of state indemnity to livestock owner also receiving federal indemnity
Status: in_force

If the owner of livestock destroyed at the order of the State Department of Agriculture is eligible for indemnity payable by the federal government, the owner may also be indemnified by the State of Oregon. However, the State of Oregon shall only pay the difference between the maximum amounts set forth in ORS 596.671 (Amount of indemnity) and the amount payable by the federal government. [1965 c.217 §7 (enacted in lieu of 596.680); 1981 c.334 §4]

Source: Section 596.681 — Limit of state indemnity to livestock owner also receiving federal indemnity , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 610.045 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 610 / Section 610.045
610.045 Keeping coyotes in captivity
Status: in_force

Coyotes shall not be kept in captivity except in public parks or zoos or in compliance with the terms and conditions of a permit issued pursuant to ORS 497.308 (Wildlife holding and habitat removal permits) and 497.312 (Special restrictions on holding coyotes) . The justice court and circuit court have concurrent jurisdiction of any violation of this section. [Amended by 1977 c.247 §3]

Source: Section 610.045 — Keeping coyotes in captivity , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors610.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 604.035 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 604 / Section 604.035
604.035 Property rights applicable to recorded brand
Status: in_force

(1) The brand recorded or renewed under ORS 604.027 (Application to record brand) is the exclusive property right of the holder thereof, and the holder has exclusive right to use the brand in accordance with its recordation. The holder may transfer the recorded brand by sale, assignment or otherwise and may bequeath the brand by will or subject to the laws of descent and distribution as personal property.

(2) Proof of a recorded brand is prima facie evidence of the ownership or right to possession of livestock upon which the brand is used in all civil or criminal actions and suits involving an issue of ownership or right to possession of such livestock. Parol evidence is inadmissible to prove a person is a holder of a recorded brand. Evidence of ownership or right to possession of livestock by Oregon brands thereon is inadmissible unless the brands are recorded, and a disputable presumption of ownership arising from possession, common reputation or the exercise of an act of ownership shall prevail. [1981 c.248 §6; 2003 c.575 §2]

Source: Section 604.035 — Property rights applicable to recorded brand; transferability; evidence of ownership or right of possession , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors604.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 604.071 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 604 / Section 604.071
604.071 Prohibitions
Status: in_force

A person may not:

(1) Purchase, sell, handle or transport hides or livestock in violation of ORS 604.005 (Definitions) to 604.071 (Prohibitions) , 604.640 (Inspection of cattle) , 604.650 (Inventory upon removal) and 604.670 (Rules by department) or the administrative rules promulgated thereunder;

(2) While marking livestock on the ear, either cut, mark or remove more than one-half of the ear;

(3) Except for the normal sheepshearing process, cut, burn or otherwise obliterate or disfigure the brand, earmark, dewlap or other distinguishing characteristics upon hides or livestock;

(4) Purchase, sell or hold for sale any hides or livestock in the condition described in subsection (3) of this section;

(5) As a custom slaughterer, fail to identify livestock hides and the persons from whom they were obtained;

(6) Apply an unrecorded brand on livestock;

(7) Use a recorded brand or similar design on livestock unless the person is the current recorded holder of the brand, or use a brand recorded in another state, except in accordance with rules adopted by the State Department of Agriculture;

(8) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Transport cattle out of this state without a brand inspection certificate having been issued to the person presenting the cattle for transport;

(b) Fail to have a document identifying each load of transported cattle as a part of the cattle described on the brand inspection certificate accompanying each load; or

(c) Fail to deliver the brand inspection certificate to the consignee upon the transported cattle reaching the intended destination;

(9) Refuse to permit the department to inspect hides or livestock, or refuse to permit hides or livestock to be sheared or otherwise handled so as to enable the department to determine the brands thereon;

(10) Knowingly make or issue any false, misleading or incomplete certificate, affidavit, application, proof of claim, document of title or other written instrument required or allowed under the provisions of ORS 604.005 (Definitions) to 604.071 (Prohibitions) , 604.640 (Inspection of cattle) , 604.650 (Inventory upon removal) and 604.670 (Rules by department) ; or

(11) Knowingly present cattle for brand inspection that are not owned by the person requesting the inspection. [1981 c.248 §14; 1987 c.164 §1; 2007 c.229 §4]

Source: Section 604.071 — Prohibitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors604.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.332 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.332
607.332 Claim by owner before sale
Status: in_force

(1) If the owner of an estray animal appears and claims the animal prior to sale, the owner shall pay to the State Department of Agriculture all costs described in ORS 607.337 (Use of proceeds from sale to pay department costs) (1) and, except as limited by ORS 607.313 (Notice to department by persons taking up estray animal) (2), shall pay to the person taking up the animal all accrued costs described in ORS 607.304 (Delivery of estray animal to department or owner) (2). Upon such payment, the department shall release the animal to the owner or the agent of the owner. Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, if the owner fails to pay the costs, the sale shall be carried out in accordance with ORS 607.328 (Procedure for sale of estray animal) .

(2) If the owner is unable to agree with the person taking up the animal as to the amount of the costs payable to the person, the owner and the person shall proceed with arbitration of the disagreement as provided by ORS 607.304 (Delivery of estray animal to department or owner) (4) to (10). [1957 c.604 §21; 1975 c.65 §7; 2009 c.336 §10]

Source: Section 607.332 — Claim by owner before sale , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.515 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.515
607.515 Stock at large or grazing on highway from Canyonville to Umpqua National Forest
Status: in_force

No person shall permit any cattle, horses, mules, sheep, goats, hogs or other livestock, to run at large, be pastured, staked or tethered upon the state highway extending from the easterly boundary of the incorporated City of Canyonville easterly to the west boundary of the Umpqua National Forest.

Source: Section 607.515 — Stock at large or grazing on highway from Canyonville to Umpqua National Forest , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.165 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.165
609.165 Judicial review of county determination
Status: in_force

(1) A determination issued under ORS 609.156 (Opportunity to request hearing) or 609.158 (Hearing process) is subject to judicial review by the circuit court for the county making the determination as provided under ORS 34.010 (Former writ of certiorari as writ of review) to 34.100 (Power of court on review) . Notwithstanding ORS 34.070 (Stay of proceedings) , filing a petition for review shall automatically stay execution of the determination made by the county.

(2) Notwithstanding ORS 34.030 (Jurisdiction to grant writ) , a petition for review must be filed no later than the 21st day following the date on which the county delivered or mailed its determination in accordance with ORS 609.158 (Hearing process) (4). The filing of a request for reexamination under ORS 609.158 (Hearing process) (5) does not act to toll the time for filing a petition for judicial review. However, if a county governing body reexamines the determination, the time for filing a petition for judicial review shall be extended through the 21st day following the date that the result of the reexamination is delivered or mailed.

(3) If the court reverses the decision of the county, the court shall make special findings of fact based upon the evidence in the record and conclusions of law indicating clearly all aspects in which the county’s procedure or determination was in error. [1999 c.756 §4]

Source: Section 609.165 — Judicial review of county determination , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 610.155 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 610 / Section 610.155
610.155 Wolf Management Compensation and Proactive Trust Fund
Status: in_force

(1) The Wolf Management Compensation and Proactive Trust Fund is established separate and distinct from the General Fund. Interest earned on the moneys in the Wolf Management Compensation and Proactive Trust Fund shall be credited to the fund. All moneys in the fund are continuously appropriated to the State Department of Agriculture for the purpose of establishing and implementing the wolf depredation compensation and financial assistance grant program described in ORS 610.150 (Wolf predation loss compensation program) .

(2) The fund shall consist of moneys appropriated by the Legislative Assembly for the purposes of the fund and any gifts, grants, donations, endowments or bequests from any public or private source. The State Department of Agriculture may seek out and receive any gifts, grants, donations, endowments or bequests for the purpose of establishing and implementing the wolf depredation compensation and financial assistance grant program described in ORS 610.150 (Wolf predation loss compensation program) . The department shall deposit such moneys into the fund. [2011 c.690 §2]

Note: See note under 610.150 (Wolf predation loss compensation program) .

Source: Section 610.155 — Wolf Management Compensation and Proactive Trust Fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors610.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 596.671 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 596 / Section 596.671
596.671 Amount of indemnity
Status: in_force

The indemnity shall be a sum, which added to the salvage, shall not exceed 80 percent of the appraised value of each animal or article of property. [1965 c.217 §5 (enacted in lieu of 596.670); 1971 c.705 §1; 1981 c.334 §3]

Source: Section 596.671 — Amount of indemnity , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors596.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 604.610 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 604 / Section 604.610
604.610 “Licensed feedlot” defined
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 604.620 (License) to 604.670 (Rules by department) , “licensed feedlot” means a beef cattle feedlot, licensed by the State Department of Agriculture, that has more than 500 head of cattle being fed for slaughter at one time during a calendar year. [1975 c.162 §2]

Source: Section 604.610 — “Licensed feedlot” defined , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors604.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.350 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.350
607.350 Producing, on demand, the mothers of calves or colts
Status: in_force

The person, separating calves or colts from their mothers shall, upon demand of the sheriff, inspector or other officer, produce, within a reasonable time, the mother of each such animal, so that the interested parties may ascertain if the animal, so produced as the mother thereof, does or does not claim or suckle such calf or colt.

Source: Section 607.350 — Producing, on demand, the mothers of calves or colts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.162 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.162
609.162 Guidelines for imposing remedial measures, civil penalties or other sanctions
Status: in_force

(1) If a county determines under ORS 609.156 (Opportunity to request hearing) (2) or after a full and fair hearing that a dog has engaged in killing, wounding, injuring or chasing livestock, the county shall take action in accordance with the following guidelines:

(a) If the dog has engaged in chasing livestock and has not previously killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock:

(A) The county shall take reasonable measures to prevent a recurrence. Reasonable measures include, but are not limited to, requiring that the dog owner take specific measures to adequately confine the dog and provide a notarized written pledge that the owner will prevent the dog from chasing livestock again; and

(B) The county may impose a civil penalty of not more than $500.

(b) If the dog has engaged in chasing livestock and has previously killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock, or if the dog has engaged in wounding or injuring livestock and has not previously killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock, the county shall impose a civil penalty of not less than $250 and not more than $1,000. In addition to imposing the civil penalty, the county may:

(A) Require the dog owner to surrender the dog for adoption by a new owner approved by the county;

(B) Require the owner to remove the dog to a location where, in the opinion of the county, the dog does not present a threat to livestock; or

(C) Require that the dog be put to death in a humane manner. Before requiring that a dog be put to death under this subparagraph, the county shall make specific findings on the record that other measures are not available, are not adequate to remedy the problem or are otherwise unsuitable.

(c) If the dog has engaged in wounding or injuring livestock and has previously killed, wounded, injured or chased livestock, or if the dog has engaged in killing livestock and has not previously killed livestock, the county shall impose a civil penalty of not less than $500 and not more than $1,000. In addition to imposing the civil penalty, the county shall:

(A) Require the dog owner to remove the dog to a location where, in the opinion of the county, the dog does not present a threat to livestock; or

(B) Require that the dog be put to death in a humane manner.

(d) If the dog has engaged in killing livestock and the dog has previously killed livestock, the county shall impose a civil penalty of not less than $500 and not more than $1,000. In addition to imposing the civil penalty, the county shall require that the dog be put to death in a humane manner.

(2) In establishing the history of a dog for purposes of this section, or the history of an owner for purposes of ORS 609.163 (Enhanced civil penalties for habitual violators) , a county shall consider all known determinations involving the dog or owner by any court, or by a governing body, official or agency of any local or state government, without regard to where or when the incident occurred. [1999 c.756 §5]

Source: Section 609.162 — Guidelines for imposing remedial measures, civil penalties or other sanctions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 603.075 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 603 / Section 603.075
603.075 Brand inspection service fee
Status: in_force

The State Department of Agriculture may impose on any establishment required by the laws of this state to have brand inspection the service fee established under ORS 604.046 (Brand inspection and certificate requirements) (2). Such fee is appropriated as set forth in ORS chapter 604. Notwithstanding ORS 604.046 (Brand inspection and certificate requirements) (2), the department may waive the service fee under circumstances the department deems appropriate. [1973 c.175 §8; 1975 c.574 §1; 1981 c.248 §19; 2007 c.229 §7]

Source: Section 603.075 — Brand inspection service fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors603.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.007 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.007
607.007 “Adequate fence,” “estray animal,” “taking up” defined
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Adequate fence” means a continuous barrier consisting of natural barriers, structures, masonry, rails, poles, planks, wire or the combination thereof, installed and maintained in a condition so as to form a continuous guard and defense against the ingress or egress of cattle or equines into or from the lands enclosed by the barrier. Natural barriers may include hedges, ditches, rivers, streams, ponds or lakes.

(2) “Estray animal” means:

(a) Cattle, bison or equines that are unlawfully running at large or being permitted to do so; or

(b) Cattle or equines that are found to be trespassing on land enclosed by an adequate fence.

(3) “Taking up” means the intentional exertion of control over an estray animal, including but not limited to the restriction of movement, holding under herd, feeding, pasturing or sheltering of the animal. [1971 c.579 §2; 2005 c.22 §411; 2009 c.336 §1; 2013 c.312 §4]

Source: Section 607.007 — “Adequate fence,” “estray animal,” “taking up” defined , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.180 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.180
609.180 Hearing and payment of claims
Status: in_force

All claims presented as provided by ORS 609.170 (Claim by owner of livestock) shall be heard at the first regular session of the dog control board or county governing body after their presentation, or as soon thereafter as may be practicable. If the board or governing body determines that any livestock has been damaged by being killed, wounded, injured or chased, it shall file and enter a record of the value of the livestock and order a warrant drawn for the amount of damages thus found, or any portion thereof that it considers just, to be paid by the county treasurer out of the Dog License Fund. A livestock owner may refuse to accept the tendered payment and may withdraw a claim filed under ORS 609.170 (Claim by owner of livestock) . If the dog control board or county governing body considers the claim unjust, it shall disallow the claim and enter that fact upon its record. A claim may not be allowed where it appears that the damage complained of was caused by a dog owned or controlled by the claimant or the agent of the claimant. [Amended by 1975 c.749 §8; 1977 c.802 §11; 1999 c.756 §23]

Source: Section 609.180 — Hearing and payment of claims , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.337 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.337
607.337 Use of proceeds from sale to pay department costs
Status: in_force

(1) All costs incurred by the State Department of Agriculture in the taking up and sale of an estray animal shall be paid from the sale proceeds in the following priority:

(a) Cost of publication of notice.

(b) Cost of the sale.

(c) Cost of transportation of the animal to the point of sale.

(d) Reasonable cost of feed and care prior to sale.

(e) All other costs including the time and mileage of the employees of the department.

(2) If the proceeds of the sale are inadequate to pay all of the costs mentioned in subsection (1) of this section, the department shall pay the deficiency.

(3) Subject to ORS 607.338 (Use of proceeds from sale to pay person taking up animal) (1) and (3), any balance remaining from the proceeds of sale shall be transmitted to the department. The department shall deposit the proceeds balance in the Department of Agriculture Account in the General Fund. Proceeds so deposited shall be held in such account for a period of one year subject to claim by the owner.

(4) If the owner fails to establish the right of the owner to the proceeds of sale within one year, all right, title and claim thereto shall be transferred to the department to expend and use in carrying out this chapter and ORS chapter 604. [1957 c.604 §§22,23; 1967 c.113 §1; 1967 c.637 §21; 1991 c.660 §4; 2009 c.336 §12]

Source: Section 607.337 — Use of proceeds from sale to pay department costs , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 607.313 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 607 / Section 607.313
607.313 Notice to department by persons taking up estray animal
Status: in_force

(1) Any person taking up an estray animal shall, within five days, give written notice of the taking up to the State Department of Agriculture. The notice shall include:

(a) A statement of the description of the animal, including marks and brands or other identifying characteristics.

(b) The date of the taking up.

(c) The location of the taking up and present location of the animal.

(2) If a person gives the notice required by subsection (1) of this section but fails to do so within the time allowed, the person may recover only those costs verified by the department of taking up the animal, of giving notice and of keeping the animal, as provided in ORS 607.304 (Delivery of estray animal to department or owner) (2), 607.332 (Claim by owner before sale) and 607.338 (Use of proceeds from sale to pay person taking up animal) , that were incurred within five days immediately preceding the giving of the notice. [1971 c.579 §4; 1975 c.65 §4; 1981 c.413 §1; 2009 c.336 §7]

Source: Section 607.313 — Notice to department by persons taking up estray animal; recovery of costs , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors607.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 609.093 — OR Code / Title 48 / Chapter 609 / Section 609.093
609.093 Considerations prior to disposing of chasing, menacing or biting dog
Status: in_force

In determining whether a dog should be killed as provided under ORS 609.090 (Impounding certain dogs) (7) or 609.990 (Penalties for ORS 609.060, 609.095, 609.098, 609.100, 609.169 and 609.405) (6), a dog control board, county governing body or court shall consider the following factors:

(1) If the dog has bitten a person, the circumstances and severity of the bite;

(2) Whether the keeper has a history of maintaining dogs that are a public nuisance;

(3) The impact of keeper actions on the behavior of the dog;

(4) The ability and inclination of the keeper to prevent the dog from chasing or menacing another person on premises other than the premises from which the keeper may lawfully exclude others or from biting another person;

(5) Whether the dog can be relocated to a secure facility;

(6) The effect that a transfer of the keeping of the dog to another person would have on ensuring the health and safety of the public;

(7) Behavior by the dog before or since the biting, chasing or menacing; and

(8) Any other factors that the board, governing body or court may deem relevant. [1999 c.658 §2; 2001 c.636 §8; 2005 c.840 §6]

Source: Section 609.093 — Considerations prior to disposing of chasing, menacing or biting dog , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors609.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).