ORS § 496.172 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.172
496.172 Commission management authority for threatened or endangered species
Status: in_force

In carrying out the provisions of the wildlife laws with regard to the management of wildlife that is a threatened species or an endangered species, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission:

(1) Shall conduct investigations of wildlife species native to this state and shall determine whether any such species is a threatened species or an endangered species.

(2) By rule, shall establish and publish, and from time to time may revise, a list of wildlife species that are threatened species or endangered species. Listed threatened species or endangered species shall be protected as provided in ORS 496.182 (Protection and conservation programs) .

(3) Shall work cooperatively with state agencies that have land management authority or regulatory authority to determine their roles within their statutory obligations in the conservation of endangered species, as described in ORS 496.182 (Protection and conservation programs) (8).

(4) By rule, shall establish a system of permits for scientific taking of threatened species and endangered species and shall establish a system of state permits for incidental taking of state-designated threatened species and endangered species not listed by the federal government under such terms and conditions as the commission determines will minimize the impact on the species taken. An incidental taking permit or statement issued by a federal agency for a species listed under the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-205, 16 U.S.C. 1531), as amended, shall be recognized by the state as a waiver of any state protection measures or requirements otherwise applicable to the actions allowed under the federal permit.

(5) Shall cooperate with the State Department of Agriculture in carrying out the provisions of ORS 564.105 (Responsibility to protect and conserve native plants) .

(6) Shall adopt administrative rules to carry out the provisions of ORS 496.171 (Definitions for ORS 496.171 to 496.182) to 496.182 (Protection and conservation programs) and 498.026 (Transaction in threatened or endangered wildlife species prohibited) . [1987 c.686 §3; 1995 c.590 §3]

Source: Section 496.172 — Commission management authority for threatened or endangered species; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.435 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.435
496.435 Policy to recover and sustain native stocks
Status: in_force

Consistent with other provisions of law, it is declared to be a goal of the people of the State of Oregon to achieve recovery and sustainability of native stocks of salmon and trout. In order to achieve this goal in a cost-effective manner, the State of Oregon shall engage in a program to rehabilitate and improve natural habitat and native stocks and ensure that the level of harvest does not exceed the capacity of stocks to reproduce themselves. The State of Oregon shall promote rehabilitation of salmon and trout populations by reintroducing the fish to habitats by using the salmon and trout enhancement program and remote hatchboxes. [1981 c.317 §3; 1999 c.189 §1; 2003 c.463 §2]

Source: Section 496.435 — Policy to recover and sustain native stocks , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.151 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.151
496.151 Allocation of nonresident tags for outfitters and guides
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of the wildlife laws, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission by rule shall establish a system for allocating hunting permits that are limited by maximum number for the taking of deer and elk by nonresident hunters so that a number equal to one-half of the number of those permits issued to nonresident hunters in the previous year are made available to the holders of registrations issued pursuant to ORS chapter 704, and who are certified pursuant to ORS 704.060 (Certification process for participation in allocation of certain deer and elk permits) , for the use of the clients of those registration holders. Such a system shall include but not be limited to:

(1) Provisions to prevent misuse of the permits by the registrant or by employees of the registrant.

(2) Provisions for revocation and refusal to issue all or any portion of the permits based upon a commission finding of an emergency situation or biological needs. [1997 c.342 §2; 2003 c.644 §5]

Source: Section 496.151 — Allocation of nonresident tags for outfitters and guides , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.415 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.415
497.415 Revocation or denial of licenses, tags or permits for wildlife law violations or failure to comply with citation
Status: in_force

(1) When any person is convicted of a violation of law or any rule adopted pursuant thereto or otherwise fails to comply with the requirements of a citation in connection with such violation as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the court may order the State Fish and Wildlife Commission to revoke all licenses, tags and permits issued to that person pursuant to the wildlife laws. Revocation of licenses, tags and permits is in addition to and not in lieu of other penalties provided by law.

(2) The license, tag and permit revocation provisions of subsection (1) of this section apply to the following persons:

(a) Any person who is convicted of a violation of the wildlife laws, or any rule adopted pursuant thereto, or who otherwise fails to comply with the requirements of a citation in connection with any such offense.

(b) Any person who is convicted of a violation of ORS 164.245 (Criminal trespass in the second degree) , 164.255 (Criminal trespass in the first degree) , 164.265 (Criminal trespass while in possession of a firearm) , 164.345 (Criminal mischief in the third degree) , 164.354 (Criminal mischief in the second degree) or 164.365 (Criminal mischief in the first degree) committed while the person was angling, taking shellfish, hunting or trapping or who otherwise fails to comply with the requirements of a citation in connection with any such offense.

(c) Any person who is convicted of a violation of ORS 166.630 (Discharging weapon on or across highway, ocean shore recreation area or public utility facility) or 166.638 (Discharging weapon across airport operational surfaces) committed while hunting or who otherwise fails to comply with the requirements of a citation in connection with any such offense.

(d) Any person who is convicted of a violation of ORS 166.155 (Bias crime in the second degree) or 166.165 (Bias crime in the first degree) committed while the person was angling, taking shellfish, hunting or trapping or while the person was on the waters of this state or on publicly owned land used for outdoor recreation.

(3) When a court orders the revocation of a license, tag or permit pursuant to this section, the court shall take up any such licenses, tags and permits and forward them, together with a copy of the revocation order, to the commission. Upon receipt thereof, the commission shall cause revocation of the appropriate licenses, tags and permits in accordance with the court order.

(4) For purposes of the Wildlife Violator Compact:

(a) The commission shall suspend a violator’s license as defined in ORS 496.750 (Wildlife Law Violator Compact) for failure to comply with the terms of a citation from a party state. A copy of a report of failure to comply from the licensing authority of the issuing state shall be conclusive evidence. Suspension under this paragraph commences on the date the commission issues a final order pursuant to the provisions of ORS chapter 183 to suspend the license in this state. The period of suspension under this paragraph is the period provided by Oregon law or such longer period as provided by commission rule based on the period of suspension imposed by the party state.

(b) The commission shall revoke a violator’s license as defined in ORS 496.750 (Wildlife Law Violator Compact) for a conviction in a party state. A report of conviction from the licensing authority of the issuing state shall be conclusive evidence. Revocation under this paragraph commences on the date the commission issues a final order pursuant to the provisions of ORS chapter 183 to revoke the license in this state. The period of revocation under this paragraph is the period provided by Oregon law or such longer period as provided by commission rule based on the period of revocation imposed by the party state.

(5) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) No person who has had a license, tag or permit revoked pursuant to this section for the first time shall apply for or obtain another such license, tag or permit for the period of 36 months from the date the court or commission ordered the revocation.

(b) Upon having a license, tag or permit revoked for a second time pursuant to this section, no person shall apply for or obtain another such license, tag or permit for the period of five years.

(c) Upon having a license, tag or permit revoked for a third or subsequent time pursuant to this section, a person is prohibited from applying for or obtaining another such license, tag or permit.

(6) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) If a person convicted of conduct described in subsection (2) of this section does not possess at the time of conviction those licenses, tags and permits issued pursuant to the wildlife laws that the court would have revoked pursuant to this section, the court shall specify by order those licenses, tags and permits that would have been revoked and shall forward a copy of the order to the commission. No person who is the subject of such a court order shall apply for, possess or obtain another such license, tag or permit for the period of 36 months from the date of the order.

(b) Upon being the subject of a court order under this subsection for a second time, no person shall apply for or obtain another such license, tag or permit for the period of five years.

(c) Upon being the subject of a court order under this subsection for a third time, a person is prohibited from applying for or obtaining another such license, tag or permit. [1973 c.723 §71; 1975 c.578 §4; 1977 c.350 §4; 1979 c.603 §3; 1981 c.900 §2; 1981 c.901 §3; 1983 c.740 §203; 1989 c.1056 §3; 1999 c.1051 §273; 2003 c.656 §9; 2007 c.257 §1; 2009 c.778 §5; 2010 c.58 §1; 2011 c.597 §64; 2021 c.393 §4]

Source: Section 497.415 — Revocation or denial of licenses, tags or permits for wildlife law violations or failure to comply with citation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.716 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.716
496.716 Wildlife inspection stations
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section:

(a) “Enforcement officer” has the meaning given that term in ORS 153.005 (Definitions) .

(b) “Food establishment” has the meaning given that term in ORS 616.695 (Definitions for ORS 616.695 to 616.755) .

(c) “Taken” means killed or captured, whether inside or outside of this state.

(d) “Vehicle” has the meaning given that term in ORS 801.590 (“Vehicle.”) .

(e) “Wildlife” has the meaning given that term in ORS 496.004 (Definitions) .

(2) The State Department of Fish and Wildlife may operate wildlife inspection stations for the purposes of:

(a) Preventing the spread of chronic wasting disease or other infections or infestations harmful to wildlife; or

(b) Collecting information in furtherance of wildlife management efforts.

(3) The operator of a vehicle that is transporting taken wildlife or parts of taken wildlife shall stop for inspection of the wildlife or parts of wildlife when arriving at a wildlife inspection station described in this section. This subsection does not apply to the transporting of parts of taken wildlife that have been processed by a food establishment.

(4) A wildlife inspection station described in this section must be:

(a) Operated as provided under policies and guidelines adopted by the State Fish and Wildlife Director;

(b) Plainly marked by signs that conform to applicable state and federal laws; and

(c) Staffed by at least one uniformed employee of the State Department of Fish and Wildlife.

(5) The wildlife inspection station purposes described in subsection (2) of this section do not prohibit or restrict State Department of Fish and Wildlife employees from carrying out other lawful actions while operating a wildlife inspection station, including but not limited to requesting to see angling or hunting licenses.

(6) The operator of a vehicle that is transporting taken wildlife or parts of taken wildlife commits a Class A violation if the operator fails to stop for inspection of the wildlife when arriving at a wildlife inspection station.

(7) Notwithstanding ORS 153.042 (Citations generally) , an enforcement officer authorized to enforce wildlife laws in this state may issue a citation under subsection (6) of this section when the conduct alleged to constitute a violation did not take place in the presence of the enforcement officer, if the enforcement officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the conduct constitutes a violation on the basis of information received from a department employee who is staffing a wildlife inspection station and observes the violation. [2021 c.98 §1]

Note: 496.716 (Wildlife inspection stations) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 496 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 496.716 — Wildlife inspection stations , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.134 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.134
497.134 Voluntary contributions
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may provide a means for persons to make voluntary contributions to be used for special fish and wildlife management programs, including programs to improve access for recreational angling. The commission may seek voluntary contributions in conjunction with the sale of hunting and angling licenses and tags or by such other means as the commission considers appropriate.

(2) If the commission implements an electronic licensing system, the commission shall provide a means for persons to make voluntary contributions in conjunction with the sale of licenses and tags referred to in ORS 497.121 (Angling and shellfish licenses and tags) (1). All such voluntary contributions received by the commission may be expended only for projects for which applications are made pursuant to ORS 496.450 (Application for project) . [1985 c.391 §2; 1989 c.204 §1; 1999 c.25 §7; 1999 c.1006 §8]

Source: Section 497.134 — Voluntary contributions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.992 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.992
496.992 Penalties
Status: in_force

(1) Except as otherwise provided by this section or other law, a violation of any provision of the wildlife laws, or any rule adopted pursuant to the wildlife laws, is a Class A misdemeanor if the offense is committed with a culpable mental state.

(2) Except as otherwise provided by this section or other law, a violation of a provision of the wildlife laws, or a rule adopted pursuant to the wildlife laws, that does not involve the taking of wildlife is a Class D violation if the offense is committed without a culpable mental state.

(3) A violation of a provision of the wildlife laws, or a rule adopted pursuant to the wildlife laws, that involves the taking of wildlife, other than nongame mammals and game birds, is a Class A violation if the offense is committed without a culpable mental state.

(4) A violation of a provision of the wildlife laws, or a rule adopted pursuant to the wildlife laws, that involves the taking of nongame mammals or game birds is a Class C violation if the offense is committed without a culpable mental state.

(5) A violation of a provision of the wildlife laws, or a rule adopted pursuant to the wildlife laws, that involves the size or quantity limits for salmon, steelhead trout and sturgeon is a Class A violation if the offense is committed without a culpable mental state.

(6) A violation of a provision of the wildlife laws, or a rule adopted pursuant to the wildlife laws, relating to the size or quantity limits for fish or shellfish, other than size and quantity limits for salmon, steelhead trout and sturgeon, is a Class C violation if the offense is committed without a culpable mental state.

(7) A violation of the nonresident licensing provisions of ORS 497.102 (Hunting licenses and permits) or 497.121 (Angling and shellfish licenses and tags) is a Class A violation if the offense is committed without a culpable mental state.

(8) A violation of ORS 496.994 (Obstructing the taking of wildlife prohibited) is a Class A violation if the offense is committed without a culpable mental state.

(9) A violation of ORS 498.136 (Hunting from motor-propelled vehicle restricted) , 498.142 (Hunting with artificial light restricted) or 498.146 (Shining artificial light on game mammal, predatory animal or livestock while in or near motor vehicle and while in possession of weapon restricted) is a Class A violation if the offense is committed without a culpable mental state.

(10) The second and each subsequent conviction within a 10-year period for the taking of a raptor or the taking of game fish with a total value of $200 or more or the taking of antelope, black bear, cougar, deer, elk, moose, mountain goat or mountain sheep in violation of any provision of the wildlife laws, or any rule adopted pursuant thereto, that occurs more than one hour prior to, or more than one hour subsequent to, a season established for the lawful taking of such game mammals or game fish is a Class C felony if the offense is committed with a culpable mental state.

(11) A violation of a provision of the wildlife laws, or a rule adopted pursuant to the wildlife laws, is a Class C felony if the offense involves any of the following and is committed intentionally, knowingly or recklessly:

(a) The unlawful taking of wildlife with the intent to sell or to barter, trade, import, export or otherwise exchange the wildlife or a part of the wildlife.

(b) Except as provided in this paragraph, the second and each subsequent unlawful taking of a game mammal during a 12-month period. This paragraph does not apply to the taking of silver gray squirrel.

(c) The unlawful taking of a moose, mountain sheep, Rocky Mountain goat or wolf.

(d) The third and each subsequent taking of a game fish in excess of a bag limit during a 12-month period.

(e) The second and each subsequent unlawful taking of nonadipose clipped steelhead during a 12-month period.

(f) The unlawful taking of members of the family Acipenseridae that are commonly known as green sturgeon or that are oversized and commonly known as white sturgeon.

(g) The unlawful taking of wildlife that is a threatened species or endangered species.

(12) If a person is convicted of a Class A misdemeanor under subsection (1) of this section, in addition to any other penalty authorized by law, the court shall impose a fine that is:

(a) Equal to the maximum fine described in ORS 161.635 (Fines for misdemeanors) (1)(a), if the person has two or more previous convictions for a Class A misdemeanor under subsection (1) of this section or if the offense involves taking three or more times the daily bag limit of any wildlife.

(b) Not less than one-half of the maximum fine described in ORS 161.635 (Fines for misdemeanors) (1)(a), if the offense involves:

(A) Failing to release a sturgeon more than six feet in length;

(B) Unlawfully taking wildlife to sell, barter, trade, import or export the wildlife, or parts thereof, or selling, bartering, trading, importing or exporting unlawfully taken wildlife, or parts thereof; or

(C) Taking a raptor and the person has a previous conviction for taking a raptor.

(c) Not less than one-fourth of the maximum fine described in ORS 161.635 (Fines for misdemeanors) (1)(a), if the offense involves taking a raptor and the person does not have a previous conviction for taking a raptor.

(13) If more than one minimum fine described in subsection (12) of this section applies, the court shall impose a fine in an amount that is not less than the highest of the applicable minimum fines.

(14) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) If a court imposes a fine as penalty for an offense under the wildlife laws that involves the unlawful taking or killing of wildlife listed under ORS 496.705 (Damage suits for unlawful killing of wildlife) (2), the court shall order that the defendant pay all or a portion of the fine separately to the clerk of the court for paying over to the State Fish and Wildlife Commission. The clerk shall pay over to the commission the amount that the court ordered the defendant to pay separately for that purpose. The amount that the court orders to be paid separately to the clerk for paying over to the commission shall be the lesser of:

(A) The amount of the fine imposed; or

(B) The amount that the commission could recover under ORS 496.705 (Damage suits for unlawful killing of wildlife) (2) as damages for the unlawful taking or killing.

(b) If the amount that the commission could recover under ORS 496.705 (Damage suits for unlawful killing of wildlife) (2) as damages for the unlawful taking or killing of wildlife is more than the maximum fine established for the offense under ORS 153.018 (Maximum fines) , 161.625 (Fines for felonies) or 161.635 (Fines for misdemeanors) or a specific fine statute, notwithstanding ORS 153.018 (Maximum fines) , 161.625 (Fines for felonies) or 161.635 (Fines for misdemeanors) or any specific fine statute, the maximum fine for the offense is the amount that the commission could recover under ORS 496.705 (Damage suits for unlawful killing of wildlife) (2) as damages for the unlawful taking or killing.

(c) If an amount paid over to the commission under this subsection is less than the amount that the commission could recover under ORS 496.705 (Damage suits for unlawful killing of wildlife) (2) as damages for the unlawful taking or killing of wildlife, payment of the amount does not prevent the commission from bringing an action under ORS 496.705 (Damage suits for unlawful killing of wildlife) (2) to recover damages for the unlawful taking or killing. However, notwithstanding ORS 496.705 (Damage suits for unlawful killing of wildlife) , the amount recoverable under ORS 496.705 (Damage suits for unlawful killing of wildlife) (2) by the commission as damages for the unlawful taking or killing shall be reduced by the amount paid to the commission under this subsection from a fine imposed for the unlawful taking or killing.

(15) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) If a court imposes a fine as penalty for an offense under the wildlife laws that involves a violation of a rule related to the list of prohibited species, as defined in ORS 498.072 (Updating list of prohibited species) , the court shall order that the defendant pay all or a portion of the fine separately to the clerk of the court for paying over to the commission. The clerk shall pay over to the commission the amount that the court ordered the defendant to pay separately for that purpose, which shall be the lesser of:

(A) The amount of the fine imposed; or

(B) The amount that the commission could recover under ORS 498.073 (Suit for violation related to list of prohibited species) as civil damages.

(b) The amount recoverable under ORS 498.073 (Suit for violation related to list of prohibited species) shall be reduced by the amount paid to the commission under this subsection.

(16) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) In addition to any other penalty authorized by law, the court shall order the commission to revoke all licenses, tags and permits issued to a person in the manner provided for in ORS 497.415 (Revocation or denial of licenses, tags or permits for wildlife law violations or failure to comply with citation) (3), (5) and (6) if the person is convicted of:

(A) A Class A misdemeanor under subsection (1) of this section if the offense involves:

(i) A violation of ORS 498.042 (Removal of parts of wildlife and waste of wildlife prohibited) ; or

(ii) The unlawful taking of wildlife to sell, barter, trade, import or export the wildlife, or parts thereof, or selling, bartering, trading, importing or exporting unlawfully taken wildlife, or parts thereof; or

(B) A Class C felony under subsection (10) of this section.

(b) Notwithstanding ORS 497.415 (Revocation or denial of licenses, tags or permits for wildlife law violations or failure to comply with citation) (5), upon having a license, tag or permit revoked under paragraph (a)(A)(i) of this subsection for the second time in a 10-year period, a person is prohibited from applying for or obtaining another such license, tag or permit.

(17) Upon the third conviction within a 10-year period for violation of a provision of the wildlife laws, or a rule adopted pursuant to the wildlife laws, the court shall order all guns, boats, vehicles, traps, fishing apparatus, electronic devices and other implements used in committing the third or subsequent offense to be seized and forfeited to the State of Oregon, to be turned over to the commission for disposal in the manner provided for in ORS 496.680 (Seizure of unlawful devices and unlawfully taken wildlife) .

(18) As used in this section:

(a) “Culpable mental state” has the meaning given that term in ORS 161.085 (Definitions with respect to culpability) .

(b) “Previous conviction” includes a conviction entered in the same sentencing proceeding if the conviction is for a separate criminal episode as defined in ORS 131.505 (Definitions for ORS 131.505 to 131.525) .

(c) “Raptor” means a member of the order Falconiformes or Strigiformes and includes owls, hawks, falcons, eagles, osprey and harriers. [1973 c.723 §39; 1975 c.578 §3; 1977 c.350 §3; 1977 c.353 §1; 1983 c.364 §1; 1985 c.372 §1; 1995 c.545 §5; 1999 c.1051 §106; 2009 c.778 §4; 2011 c.517 §§1,3; 2011 c.597 §§315,316; 2015 c.378 §1; 2016 c.37 §2; 2018 c.14 §1; 2019 c.274 §1; 2022 c.9 §5]

Source: Section 496.992 — Penalties; revocation; forfeiture , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.680 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.680
496.680 Seizure of unlawful devices and unlawfully taken wildlife
Status: in_force

(1) All wildlife taken by, or in the possession of any person in violation of the wildlife laws, and all guns, boats, traps, fishing apparatus and implements used in angling, hunting or trapping or taking any wildlife in violation of the wildlife laws may be seized by any person authorized to enforce the wildlife laws, and may be forfeited.

(2) All wildlife shot by any person while violating any provision of ORS 164.245 (Criminal trespass in the second degree) to 164.270 (Closure of premises to motor-propelled vehicles) or 498.120 (Hunting on another’s cultivated or enclosed land) shall be seized by any person authorized to enforce the wildlife laws and shall be forfeited.

(3) If forfeited, such property shall be turned over to the State Fish and Wildlife Commission by order of the court at the time of passing sentence for the violation.

(4) The commission may dispose of such property in any manner it considers proper, but the clear proceeds derived from the sale of any seized guns, boats, traps, fishing apparatus or implements shall be deposited in the Common School Fund. Any wildlife taken in violation of the wildlife laws may be disposed of forthwith or used for food purposes, under rules of the commission, to prevent spoilage.

(5) Upon conviction of a person for taking wildlife while violating any provision of ORS 164.245 (Criminal trespass in the second degree) to 164.270 (Closure of premises to motor-propelled vehicles) or 498.120 (Hunting on another’s cultivated or enclosed land) , the court shall include in the sentence a requirement that the convicted person pay to the seizing agency an amount equal to the cost incurred in seizing, storing and disposing of the seized and forfeited wildlife. [Amended by 1971 c.658 §19; 1973 c.723 §29; 1987 c.858 §6; 1993 c.440 §2; 1999 c.1051 §272]

Source: Section 496.680 — Seizure of unlawful devices and unlawfully taken wildlife; forfeiture; disposition; repayment of administrative costs , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.249 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.249
497.249 Revocation or refusal to renew private hunting preserve license
Status: in_force

(1) In addition to the penalties provided in ORS 496.992 (Penalties) , the State Department of Fish and Wildlife may revoke or refuse to renew a license issued under ORS 497.248 (Private hunting preserve license) if the operator fails to comply with any provision of ORS 497.248 (Private hunting preserve license) or any rule adopted by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission in relation to the operation of private hunting preserves.

(2) A new license may not be issued to a person whose license has been revoked unless it appears to the satisfaction of the department that the person will comply with the provisions of ORS 497.248 (Private hunting preserve license) and the rules adopted by the commission in relation to the operation of private hunting preserves.

(3) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, the department may not revoke a license for a first violation.

(4) Prior to revoking or refusing to renew a license, the department shall serve written notice, in the manner prescribed for contested case proceedings pursuant to ORS 183.415 (Notice of right to hearing) , on the operator of the private hunting preserve, ordering the operator to:

(a) Notify the department within 30 days of the service of the notice if the operator seeks a review of the proposed revocation or refusal to renew the license in the manner provided for contested case proceedings in ORS 183.413 (Notice to parties before hearing of rights and procedure) to 183.470 (Orders in contested cases) ; and

(b) Set forth in any notification under paragraph (a) of this subsection the operator’s reasons why the license should be renewed or not be revoked.

(5) At the conclusion of a contested case proceeding conducted by the department pursuant to subsection (4) of this section, an operator may petition the commission for a review of the determination by the department. [2001 c.151 §3]

Note: 497.249 (Revocation or refusal to renew private hunting preserve license) was added to and made a part of the wildlife laws by legislative action but was not added to ORS chapter 497 or any series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 497.249 — Revocation or refusal to renew private hunting preserve license , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.156 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.156
496.156 Expenditure priority for anadromous fish management
Status: in_force

(1) In carrying out duties, functions and powers regarding the propagation of anadromous fish prescribed in the wildlife laws and the commercial fishing laws, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall give high priority to expenditures for propagation assistance by means of transportation of upstream and downstream migrants in those areas where dams and other such obstacles present a passage problem to juvenile or adult salmon.

(2) For the purposes of this section, “transportation” means any method of helping anadromous fish to pass dams and other obstacles so as to reduce the mortality associated with passage.

(3) Nothing in subsection (1) of this section prevents the cooperation of the commission with the federal government in programs financed pursuant to ORS 506.405 (Powers of commission regarding federal aid for fish and fisheries) . [1977 c.653 §2]

Source: Section 496.156 — Expenditure priority for anadromous fish management , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.146 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.146
498.146 Shining artificial light on game mammal, predatory animal or livestock while in or near motor vehicle and while in possession of weapon restricted
Status: in_force

(1) No person shall cast from a motor vehicle or from within 500 feet of a motor vehicle an artificial light upon any game mammal, predatory animal or livestock while there is in the possession or in the immediate physical presence of the person a weapon with which the game mammal, predatory animal or livestock could be killed.

(2) Subsection (1) of this section does not apply to a person who casts artificial light upon a game mammal, predatory animal or livestock:

(a) From the headlights of a motor vehicle that is being operated on a road in the usual manner, if that person makes no attempt to kill the game mammal or livestock; or

(b) When the weapon that person has in the possession or immediate physical presence of the person is disassembled or stored, or in the trunk or storage compartment of a motor vehicle; or

(c) On land owned or lawfully occupied by that person; or

(d) On publicly owned land when that person has an agreement with the public body to use that property.

(3) As used in this section, “predatory animal” has the meaning for that term provided in ORS 610.002. [1973 c.542 §2; 1975 c.791 §2]

Source: Section 498.146 — Shining artificial light on game mammal, predatory animal or livestock while in or near motor vehicle and while in possession of weapon restricted , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.172 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.172
498.172 Trap check requirements
Status: in_force

(1) A person holding a license issued under ORS 497.142 (Fur-bearer trapping or hunting license and tag) may not set a trap for fur-bearing mammals without checking the trap at least once during each 48-hour period.

(2) A person may not set a trap for a predatory animal, as defined in ORS 610.002, without checking the trap on a regular basis. [2001 c.562 §2]

Note: 498.172 (Trap check requirements) was added to and made a part of the wildlife laws by legislative action but was not added to ORS chapter 498 or any series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 498.172 — Trap check requirements , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.162 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.162
496.162 Establishing seasons, amounts and manner of taking wildlife
Status: in_force

(1) After investigation of the supply and condition of wildlife, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission, at appropriate times each year, shall by rule:

(a) Prescribe the times, places and manner in which wildlife may be taken by angling, hunting, trapping or other method and the amounts of each of those wildlife species that may be taken and possessed.

(b) Prescribe such other restrictions or procedures regarding the angling, taking, hunting, trapping or possessing of wildlife as the commission determines will carry out the provisions of wildlife laws.

(2) In carrying out the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, the power of the commission includes, but is not limited to:

(a) Prescribing the amount of each wildlife species that may be taken and possessed in terms of sex, size and other physical characteristics.

(b) Prescribing such regular and special time periods and areas closed to the angling, taking, hunting and trapping of any wildlife species when the commission determines such action is necessary to protect the supply of such wildlife.

(c) Prescribing regular and special time periods and areas open to the angling, taking, hunting and trapping of any wildlife species, and establishing procedures for regulating the number of persons eligible to participate in such angling, taking, hunting or trapping, when the commission determines such action is necessary to maintain properly the supply of wildlife, alleviate damage to other resources, or to provide a safe and orderly recreational opportunity.

(3) Notwithstanding subsections (1) and (2) of this section, except as provided in ORS 498.146 (Shining artificial light on game mammal, predatory animal or livestock while in or near motor vehicle and while in possession of weapon restricted) or during those times and at those places prescribed by the commission for the hunting of elk, the commission shall not prescribe limitations on the times, places or amounts for the taking of predatory animals. As used in this subsection, “predatory animal” has the meaning for that term provided in ORS 610.002.

(4) In carrying out the provisions of this section, before prescribing the numbers of deer and elk to be taken, the commission shall consider:

(a) The supply and condition of deer and elk herds;

(b) The availability of forage for deer, elk and domestic livestock on public and private range and forest lands;

(c) The recreational opportunities derived from deer and elk populations; and

(d) The effects of deer and elk herds on public and private range and forest lands. [1973 c.723 §14; 1975 c.791 §1; 1981 c.218 §1; 2003 c.656 §3]

Source: Section 496.162 — Establishing seasons, amounts and manner of taking wildlife; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.610 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.610
496.610 State police to enforce wildlife laws
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of State Police shall employ a sufficient number of state police to enforce the wildlife laws.

(2) The services and expenses of the Department of State Police incurred in the enforcement of the wildlife laws shall be paid from the State Wildlife Fund.

(3) The Superintendent of State Police may appoint special enforcement officers authorized to enforce the wildlife laws. Individuals so appointed must be special agents of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Marine Fisheries Service, and shall serve at the pleasure of the superintendent without additional compensation. Each such special enforcement officer shall have all powers and authority of a peace officer of this state in serving warrants, subpoenas and other legal process in enforcement of the wildlife laws. [Amended by 1971 c.658 §10; 1973 c.723 §18; 1983 c.364 §4; 2003 c.14 §336]

Source: Section 496.610 — State police to enforce wildlife laws; payment of expenses from wildlife fund; appointment of federal agents , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.132 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.132
497.132 Combined licenses for residents
Status: repealed

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) In lieu of issuing to resident persons separate licenses for hunting and angling, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission is authorized to issue resident annual combination hunting and angling licenses, and charge the applicable fee under the fee schedule in ORS 497.061 (License, tag and permit fee schedule) .

(b) In lieu of issuing to resident senior citizens separate licenses for hunting and angling, the commission is authorized to issue resident annual senior citizen combination hunting and angling licenses for persons 70 years of age or older who have resided in the state for not less than five years prior to the date of application.

(2) The commission is authorized to issue, upon application, resident annual pioneer combination hunting and angling licenses for persons who will be 65 years of age or older in the license year and who have resided in the state for not less than 50 years prior to the date of application, and to charge the applicable fee under the fee schedule in ORS 497.061 (License, tag and permit fee schedule) . The resident annual pioneer combination license shall be equivalent to, and authorize the purchaser to engage in the activities authorized by, a resident annual combination license.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) In lieu of issuing to resident persons separate licenses and tags for various hunting and angling activities, the commission is authorized to issue resident annual sportspac licenses and shall charge the applicable fee under the fee schedule in ORS 497.061 (License, tag and permit fee schedule) . The purchaser of each sportspac license is authorized to engage in those hunting and angling activities for which the following licenses and tags are required:

(A) Combination license;

(B) Black bear tag;

(C) Cougar tag;

(D) General season elk tag;

(E) General season deer tag;

(F) Upland bird stamp;

(G) Oregon migratory waterfowl stamp;

(H) Turkey tag;

(I) Annual combined angling tag to angle for salmon, steelhead trout, sturgeon and halibut; and

(J) Resident annual shellfish license.

(b) The holder of each sportspac license who wishes to engage in hunting or angling activities for which permits are required that are limited by quota must participate in the process for allocation of the permits in the same manner as all other permit applicants. However, if the holder of a sportspac license is unsuccessful in obtaining a permit limited by quota for a particular activity, the holder will be issued a tag valid for any general season for that species.

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of the wildlife laws, of the moneys received from the sale of sportspac licenses:

(A) Four dollars from each license shall be credited to the subaccount referred to in ORS 496.242 (Access and habitat program funds) .

(B) Four dollars from each license shall be credited to the subaccount referred to in ORS 496.283 (Use of certain moneys) .

(C) Seventy-five cents from each license shall be credited to the Fish Screening Subaccount established under ORS 496.303 (Fish and Wildlife Account) .

(D) Twenty-five cents from each license shall be credited to the Fish Passage Fund established under ORS 497.139 (Fish Passage Fund) .

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) In lieu of issuing to resident persons at least 12 years of age and under 18 years of age separate licenses and tags for hunting and angling, the commission is authorized to issue resident annual youth sportspac licenses for persons at least 12 years of age and under 18 years of age and shall charge the applicable fee under the fee schedule in ORS 497.061 (License, tag and permit fee schedule) . The purchaser of each youth sportspac license is authorized to engage in those hunting and angling activities for which the following licenses and tags are required:

(A) Youth license;

(B) Black bear tag;

(C) Cougar tag;

(D) General season elk tag;

(E) General season deer tag;

(F) Youth upland bird stamp;

(G) Youth Oregon migratory waterfowl stamp;

(H) Youth turkey tag; and

(I) Annual youth combined angling tag for persons under 18 years of age to angle for salmon, steelhead trout, sturgeon and halibut.

(b) The holder of each resident annual youth sportspac license who wishes to engage in hunting or angling activities for which permits are required that are limited by quota must participate in the process for allocation of the permits in the same manner as all other permit applicants. However, if the holder of a resident annual youth sportspac license is unsuccessful in obtaining a permit limited by quota for a particular activity, the holder will be issued a tag valid for any general season for that species.

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of the wildlife laws, of the moneys received from the sale of resident annual youth sportspac licenses:

(A) One dollar from each license shall be credited to the subaccount referred to in ORS 496.242 (Access and habitat program funds) .

(B) One dollar from each license shall be credited to the subaccount referred to in ORS 496.283 (Use of certain moneys) .

(C) Seventy-five cents from each license shall be credited to the Fish Screening Subaccount established under ORS 496.303 (Fish and Wildlife Account) .

(D) Twenty-five cents from each license shall be credited to the Fish Passage Fund established under ORS 497.139 (Fish Passage Fund) . [1973 c.723 §52; 1975 c.454 §5; 1981 c.445 §8; 1987 c.255 §3; 1991 c.661 §3; 1993 c.619 §2; 1997 c.341 §2; 1999 c.59 §161; 1999 c.1006 §7; amendments by 1999 c.1006 §17 repealed by 2001 c.949 §1; 2001 c.822 §§8,8a; 2003 c.644 §4; 2009 c.291 §2; 2009 c.765 §2; 2009 c.832 §9; 2015 c.779 §23]

Note: See first note under 497.121 (Angling and shellfish licenses and tags) .

Source: Section 497.132 — Combined licenses for residents , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.291 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.291
496.291 Advisory councils
Status: in_force

(1) Individuals who reside in the various regions established for administration of the salmon and trout enhancement program may form advisory councils to discuss and consider fish restoration and enhancement programs and projects and shall make recommendations thereon to the Restoration and Enhancement Board. When the board considers proposals affecting a region, the board shall consult with the advisory council for that region if one exists.

(2) Employees of the State Department of Fish and Wildlife who are residents of the various regions may act in an advisory capacity to the various councils.

(3) Individuals who serve as members of an advisory council shall receive no compensation or expenses for service as a member. [1989 c.512 §13]

STATE WILDLIFE FUND; RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES

Source: Section 496.291 — Advisory councils; recommendations to board; consultation with councils , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.238 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.238
497.238 Taxidermy license
Status: in_force

(1) No person shall engage in the business of taxidermy unless the person first obtains from the State Fish and Wildlife Commission a taxidermist license.

(2) Every licensed taxidermist shall maintain a record of the taxidermy work the person performs. The record shall be in such form and contain such information as the commission, by rule, prescribes to accurately indicate the date, type and number of wildlife species received for taxidermy work and the name and address of the persons from whom the wildlife species were received. [1973 c.723 §62]

Source: Section 497.238 — Taxidermy license; records , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.061 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.061
498.061 Reporting takings of beaver
Status: repealed

(1) As used in this section:

(a) “Beaver” means a member of the species Castor canadensis.

(b) “Forestland” has the meaning given that term in ORS 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) .

(2) A person that takes a beaver on privately owned forestland shall report the taking to the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, including the reason for the taking, the location of the taking and the number of beavers taken.

(3) The department shall:

(a) Annually submit a summary of the takings of beaver reported under subsection (2) of this section to the State Fish and Wildlife Commission to help the commission better understand the scale of trapping on privately owned forestland.

(b) Make the summary described in paragraph (a) of this subsection available to the public on a department website.

(4) The commission shall adopt rules to implement this section. [2022 c.33 §22]

Note: 498.061 (Reporting takings of beaver) is repealed only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (note below).

Note: Sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, provide:

Sec. 54. Statement of legislative intent concerning habitat conservation plan and incidental take permit. (1) The Legislative Assembly intends that the policies described in sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 9, 26 to 29, 40, 41 and 45 to 49 of this 2022 Act shall remain in effect only if:

(a) An incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, is issued on or before December 31, 2027;

(b) The State Board of Forestry has not made a finding that the habitat conservation plan imposes more than a de minimis difference in economic or resource impacts, at the level of landscapes, relative to rules adopted or amended as part of the rule package described in section 2 of this 2022 Act [ 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ]; and

(c) The incidental take permit remains in effect.

(2) The legislative intent described in subsection (1) of this section is established by sections 55 to 64 of this 2022 Act. [2022 c.33 §54]

Sec. 60. Conditional repeals. Sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act are repealed. [2022 c.33 §60]

Sec. 61. Operation of conditional provisions upon finding related to habitat conservation plan. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 62 and 63 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if the State Board of Forestry finds, pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act imposes more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act.

(2) If the board finds, pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act imposes more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on the 150th day after the date the board makes the finding. [2022 c.33 §61]

Sec. 62. Operation of conditional provisions upon revocation or invalidation of incidental take permit. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 61 and 63 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if:

(a) Pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, the State Board of Forestry does not make a finding or finds that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act does not impose more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act; and

(b) The incidental take permit is subsequently revoked or invalidated.

(2) If the events described in subsection (1)(a) and (b) of this section occur, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on the 240th day after the date that any appeals process related to the revocation or invalidation has been exhausted or foregone, whichever occurs first. [2022 c.33 §62]

Sec. 63. Operation of conditional provisions upon failure to issue incidental take permit on or before December 31, 2027. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 61 and 62 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if an incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, is not issued on or before December 31, 2027.

(2) If an incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report is not issued on or before December 31, 2027, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on June 1, 2028. [2022 c.33 §63]

Sec. 64. Repeal of conditionally operative provisions. Sections 59 and 62 of this 2022 Act are repealed on January 2, 2077. [2022 c.33 §64]

Source: Section 498.061 — Reporting takings of beaver; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.021 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.021
498.021 Short title
Status: in_force

This section and the amendments to ORS 498.022 (Purchase, sale, exchange or possession of wildlife or wildlife parts or products) by section 2, chapter 3, Oregon Laws 2017, shall be known and cited as the “Wildlife Trafficking Prevention Act.” [2017 c.3 §1]

Note: 498.021 (Short title) was enacted into law but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 498 or any series therein by law. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 498.021 — Short title , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.406 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.406
498.406 License to operate certain outdoor clubs required
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in ORS 498.412 (Application of ORS 498.406) , no person shall operate an outdoor club unless the person has a valid license for such operation issued by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission, if the outdoor club activities are to be conducted on land that is leased from the owners thereof and if:

(a) The members of the club are not parties to the lease; and

(b) The members of the club do not have any financial or proprietary interest in the club.

(2) No person required by subsection (1) of this section to obtain a license to operate an outdoor club shall engage in promotional plan activities for the sale of membership in the outdoor club unless the person first obtains the license. [1973 c.749 §3]

Source: Section 498.406 — License to operate certain outdoor clubs required; promotional activities for sale of membership without license prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.156 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.156
497.156 Annual nonresident bird-waterfowl stamp
Status: repealed

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission is authorized to issue, upon application, to nonresident persons 18 years of age or older desiring to hunt either migratory waterfowl or upland birds an annual bird-waterfowl stamp and shall charge the applicable fee under the fee schedule in ORS 497.061 (License, tag and permit fee schedule) .

(2) The stamp referred to in subsection (1) of this section is in addition to and not in lieu of the hunting licenses required by ORS 497.102 (Hunting licenses and permits) .

(3) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, a bird-waterfowl stamp is not required of:

(a) A person younger than 12 years of age;

(b) A nonresident person at least 12 years of age and under 18 years of age who holds an annual youth migratory waterfowl stamp and an annual youth upland bird stamp; or

(c) A nonresident hunter on a private hunting preserve who holds an annual private hunting preserve permit issued under ORS 497.102 (Hunting licenses and permits) .

(4) ORS 497.016 (Term of licenses, tags and permits) to 497.026 (Duty of license agents to remit funds) and 497.036 (Inspection of licenses, tags, permits and wildlife) apply to the stamp referred to in subsection (1) of this section. [1993 c.659 §25; 1999 c.667 §3; 1999 c.1006 §10; amendments by 1999 c.1006 §19 repealed by 2001 c.949 §1; 2009 c.832 §13; 2015 c.779 §28]

Source: Section 497.156 — Annual nonresident bird-waterfowl stamp , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.208 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.208
498.208 Use of electricity or foreign substances to take game fish prohibited
Status: in_force

(1) Except as the State Fish and Wildlife Commission by rule may provide otherwise, no person shall:

(a) Use in any body of water any electric current that may attract, frighten, retard, stun, kill or obstruct the movement of any game fish.

(b) Place in any body of water any foreign substance such as blood or fish offal or any gas, chemical, drug or powder that may attract, frighten, retard, stun, kill or obstruct the movement of any game fish.

(c) Use in any body of water any explosive device for the purpose of taking game fish.

(2) No person shall possess any game fish that the person knows or has reason to know was taken in violation of subsection (1) of this section. [1973 c.723 §92]

Source: Section 498.208 — Use of electricity or foreign substances to take game fish prohibited; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.350 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.350
497.350 Hunting restriction
Status: in_force

(1) No person younger than 12 years of age shall hunt antelope, black bear, cougar, deer, elk, mountain goat, mountain sheep or moose.

(2) No person younger than 14 years of age shall hunt with a firearm or bow and arrow unless the person is accompanied by an adult, or is hunting on land owned by the parent or legal guardian of the person. [1973 c.723 §68]

Source: Section 497.350 — Hunting restriction; generally , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.124 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.124
497.124 Special dedication of fees to Fish Screening Subaccount
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of the wildlife laws, of the moneys received from the sale of the following licenses, 75 cents from the sale of each license shall be credited to the Fish Screening Subaccount under ORS 496.303 (Fish and Wildlife Account) :

(1) Resident annual combination license issued under ORS 497.132 (Combined licenses for residents) .

(2) Resident annual angling license issued under ORS 497.121 (Angling and shellfish licenses and tags) (1)(a).

(3) Angling and shellfish license to angle and take shellfish for one day issued under ORS 497.121 (Angling and shellfish licenses and tags) (1)(d).

(4) Angling license to angle for two days issued under ORS 497.121 (Angling and shellfish licenses and tags) (1)(e).

(5) Angling license to angle for three days issued under ORS 497.121 (Angling and shellfish licenses and tags) (1)(f).

(6) Nonresident annual angling license issued under ORS 497.121 (Angling and shellfish licenses and tags) (1)(b).

(7) Nonresident angling license to angle for seven consecutive days issued under ORS 497.121 (Angling and shellfish licenses and tags) (1)(c). [1991 c.858 §15; 1993 c.619 §4; 1995 c.426 §4; 1999 c.25 §6; 2009 c.832 §8; 2015 c.779 §19; 2022 c.56 §4]

Note: 497.124 (Special dedication of fees to Fish Screening Subaccount) was added to and made a part of ORS chapter 497 by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 497.124 — Special dedication of fees to Fish Screening Subaccount , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 501.025 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 501 / Section 501.025
501.025 Authority to manage supply or condition of wildlife on refuge
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any restrictions to the contrary regarding the uses of any wildlife refuge created by any law of this state or any rule promulgated pursuant thereto, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission may authorize the hunting or trapping of wildlife on any such wildlife refuge when the commission determines that such action is necessary to properly manage the supply or condition of the wildlife on such refuge. [1973 c.723 §106]

Source: Section 501.025 — Authority to manage supply or condition of wildlife on refuge , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors501.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.480 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.480
496.480 Reports on basin plans
Status: in_force

The State Department of Fish and Wildlife shall report at least once every six months to the appropriate legislative committee and the Governor on the progress of the department and the State Fish and Wildlife Commission in implementing ORS 496.470 (Natural production of anadromous fish) and 496.475 (Adoption of basin plans) . [1999 c.671 §3; 2001 c.97 §3]

Note: See note under 496.470 (Natural production of anadromous fish) .

FISHING TACKLE COLLECTION, DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING

Source: Section 496.480 — Reports on basin plans , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.022 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.022
497.022 Issuance of licenses, tags or permits by commission agents
Status: repealed

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may appoint agents to issue any of the licenses, tags or permits the commission is authorized by law to issue. The commission shall prescribe the procedure for the issuance of the licenses, tags and permits. Agents of the commission shall issue licenses, tags and permits in accordance with the prescribed procedure and shall charge and collect the fees prescribed by law for the licenses, tags and permits.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) As part of the fees prescribed in the fee schedule under ORS 497.061 (License, tag and permit fee schedule) and in addition to fees otherwise prescribed by law for the issuance of a license, tag or permit, the issuing agent shall charge and collect:

(A) For each resident annual sportspac license issued pursuant to ORS 497.132 (Combined licenses for residents) (3)(a) and (4)(a), $5.

(B) For each nonresident annual hunting license issued pursuant to ORS 497.102 (Hunting licenses and permits) , $10.

(C) For each nonresident annual deer tag, nonresident annual elk tag, nonresident annual black bear tag, nonresident annual mountain goat tag, nonresident annual mountain sheep tag and nonresident annual antelope tag issued pursuant to ORS 497.112 (Hunting tags) (1), $10.

(D) For any other license, tag or permit, $2 each.

(b) If the agent is a county clerk, the agent shall deposit the agent fees provided for in this section in the general fund of the county for which the agent is the clerk. If the agent is an employee of the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, the agent fees shall be deposited in the State Wildlife Fund. Agents other than county clerks or department employees who issue licenses without the use of a state computerized licensing system may retain the agent fees for their license tag or permit issuance services. Agents other than county clerks or department employees who issue licenses, tags or permits using a state computerized licensing system may retain a portion of the agent fees in not less than the following amounts:

(A) For each resident annual sportspac license issued pursuant to ORS 497.132 (Combined licenses for residents) (3)(a) and (4)(a), $2.50.

(B) For each nonresident annual hunting license issued pursuant to ORS 497.102 (Hunting licenses and permits) , $7.50.

(C) For each nonresident annual deer tag, nonresident annual elk tag, nonresident annual black bear tag, nonresident annual mountain goat tag, nonresident annual mountain sheep tag and nonresident annual antelope tag issued pursuant to ORS 497.112 (Hunting tags) (1), $7.50.

(D) For any other license, tag or permit, or for other provided services, as may be specified by contract between the department and the agent for license, tag or permit issuance service or other services performed by the agent, $1 each.

(3) If the commission finds that an agent appointed pursuant to this section has violated any of the provisions of law or the procedures prescribed by the commission for the issuance of licenses, tags or permits or the collection and disposition of fees from licenses, tags or permits, the commission may revoke the authority of the agent to issue licenses, tags and permits, or may suspend the authority of the agent for such time as the commission considers appropriate. [1973 c.723 §45; 1975 c.183 §1; 1981 c.445 §2; 1987 c.345 §1; 1989 c.573 §1; 1993 c.103 §1; 1999 c.1006 §2; amendments by 1999 c.1006 §13 repealed by 2001 c.949 §1; 2001 c.104 §223; 2009 c.832 §3; 2013 c.236 §2; 2015 c.779 §9; 2019 c.102 §2]

Source: Section 497.022 — Issuance of licenses, tags or permits by commission agents; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.036 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.036
497.036 Inspection of licenses, tags, permits and wildlife
Status: in_force

The holder of any license, tag or permit to angle, take, hunt or trap must consent to the inspection of any such license, tag or permit and any wildlife taken pursuant to such license, tag or permit:

(1) By any employee of the State Fish and Wildlife Commission or any person authorized to enforce the wildlife laws.

(2) By the owner, or the agent of the owner, of any land upon which the license, tag or permit holder is angling for, taking, hunting or trapping any wildlife. [1973 c.723 §48; 1981 c.445 §4; 1991 c.67 §149; 2003 c.656 §5]

Source: Section 497.036 — Inspection of licenses, tags, permits and wildlife , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.254 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.254
496.254 Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee
Status: repealed

(1) The Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee is established as an advisory committee to the State Fish and Wildlife Commission and the State Department of Fish and Wildlife for the purpose of carrying out the duties described in subsection (2) of this section. The commission shall determine the number of members of the committee and the geographical representation by the members. The Governor shall appoint the members of the committee. The Associate Director of Outdoor Recreation, or the associate director’s designee, shall serve as a nonvoting, ex officio member.

(2) The committee shall review department policies regarding the use of Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund moneys, other than policies regarding the use of Private Forest Accord Mitigation Subaccount moneys, and make recommendations to the commission and the department regarding the use of fund moneys for implementing and administering department activities.

(3) Members of the committee may not receive compensation for service as members. However, subject to any applicable law regulating travel and other expenses of state officers and employees, a member may be reimbursed for actual and necessary travel and other expenses incurred in the performance of official duties from moneys available to the department for the purpose of reimbursement of committee members. [2019 c.531 §2; 2021 c.613 §1; 2022 c.33 §29]

Note: The amendments to 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) by section 67, 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 (note preceding 496.257 (Private Forest Accord Grant Program) ). 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , as amended by section 67, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, is set forth for the user’s convenience.

496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) . (1) The Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee is established as an advisory committee to the State Fish and Wildlife Commission and the State Department of Fish and Wildlife for the purpose of carrying out the duties described in subsection (2) of this section. The commission shall determine the number of members of the committee and the geographical representation by the members. The Governor shall appoint the members of the committee. The Associate Director of Outdoor Recreation, or the associate director’s designee, shall serve as a nonvoting, ex officio member.

(2) The committee shall review department policies regarding the use of Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund moneys and make recommendations to the commission and the department regarding the use of fund moneys for implementing and administering department activities.

(3) Members of the committee may not receive compensation for service as members. However, subject to any applicable law regulating travel and other expenses of state officers and employees, a member may be reimbursed for actual and necessary travel and other expenses incurred in the performance of official duties from moneys available to the department for the purpose of reimbursement of committee members.

Note: See second note under 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) .

Note: Sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, provide:

Sec. 54. Statement of legislative intent concerning habitat conservation plan and incidental take permit. (1) The Legislative Assembly intends that the policies described in sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 9, 26 to 29, 40, 41 and 45 to 49 of this 2022 Act shall remain in effect only if:

(a) An incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, is issued on or before December 31, 2027;

(b) The State Board of Forestry has not made a finding that the habitat conservation plan imposes more than a de minimis difference in economic or resource impacts, at the level of landscapes, relative to rules adopted or amended as part of the rule package described in section 2 of this 2022 Act [ 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ]; and

(c) The incidental take permit remains in effect.

(2) The legislative intent described in subsection (1) of this section is established by sections 55 to 64 of this 2022 Act. [2022 c.33 §54]

Sec. 60. Conditional repeals. Sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act are repealed. [2022 c.33 §60]

Sec. 61. Operation of conditional provisions upon finding related to habitat conservation plan. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 62 and 63 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if the State Board of Forestry finds, pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act imposes more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act.

(2) If the board finds, pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act imposes more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on the 150th day after the date the board makes the finding. [2022 c.33 §61]

Sec. 62. Operation of conditional provisions upon revocation or invalidation of incidental take permit. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 61 and 63 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if:

(a) Pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, the State Board of Forestry does not make a finding or finds that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act does not impose more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act; and

(b) The incidental take permit is subsequently revoked or invalidated.

(2) If the events described in subsection (1)(a) and (b) of this section occur, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on the 240th day after the date that any appeals process related to the revocation or invalidation has been exhausted or foregone, whichever occurs first. [2022 c.33 §62]

Sec. 63. Operation of conditional provisions upon failure to issue incidental take permit on or before December 31, 2027. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 61 and 62 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if an incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, is not issued on or before December 31, 2027.

(2) If an incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report is not issued on or before December 31, 2027, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on June 1, 2028. [2022 c.33 §63]

Sec. 64. Repeal of conditionally operative provisions. Sections 59 and 62 of this 2022 Act are repealed on January 2, 2077. [2022 c.33 §64]

Source: Section 496.254 — Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.825 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.825
496.825 Application fee
Status: in_force

(1) In addition to any other fee required by law, at the time the person applies to the Water Resources Department for a license to operate a hydroelectric project under ORS 543.010 (Definitions for ORS 543.010 to 543.610) to 543.610 (Acquisition of project by state or municipality) or for a permit to appropriate water for hydroelectric purposes under ORS 537.150 (Filing of application) to 537.230 (Time allowed for construction of irrigation or other work) , the person shall pay to the State Fish and Wildlife Director an application fee the amount of which shall be the greater of:

(a) $1,000; or

(b) Thirty-five cents for each kilowatt of proposed capacity of the project.

(2) The director shall postpone the payment of the fee under subsection (1) of this section for a permit to appropriate water under ORS 537.150 (Filing of application) to 537.230 (Time allowed for construction of irrigation or other work) until the person submits final plans and specifications for the project to the Water Resources Department under ORS 537.150 (Filing of application) .

(3) Subsection (1) of this section shall not apply to any applicant for a permit or license for a project producing 100 theoretical horsepower or less. [1985 c.674 §3]

Source: Section 496.825 — Application fee; exception , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.221 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.221
496.221 ORS 496.201 to 496.221 not intended to extend Indian legal or political rights
Status: in_force

Nothing in ORS 496.201 (Department to furnish salmon for ceremonies) to 496.221 (ORS 496.201 to 496.221 not intended to extend Indian legal or political rights) is intended to extend legal or political recognition to any Indians described in ORS 496.201 (Department to furnish salmon for ceremonies) (1) for any purpose other than provided in ORS 496.201 (Department to furnish salmon for ceremonies) to 496.216 (Disposition of salmon remaining after ceremony) . [1981 c.575 §6; 1987 c.99 §4]

Source: Section 496.221 — ORS 496.201 to 496.221 not intended to extend Indian legal or political rights , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.248 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.248
497.248 Private hunting preserve license
Status: in_force

(1) No person shall engage in the business of operating a private hunting preserve for the hunting of privately owned or propagated game birds unless the person first obtains from the State Fish and Wildlife Commission a private hunting preserve license.

(2) The commission shall issue a private hunting preserve license to an applicant therefor if the commission finds that the operation of the preserve will meet the following requirements:

(a) The preserve is on one continuous tract of land owned by the applicant or leased by the applicant and contains:

(A) Not more than 640 acres, if the preserve is located in the area west of the summit of the Cascade Mountains; or

(B) Not more than 1,280 acres, if the preserve is located in the area east of the summit of the Cascade Mountains.

(b) The preserve is located at least one-half mile from any other licensed private hunting preserve.

(c) No portion of the preserve is located closer than one-half mile to any park, wilderness area, refuge or wildlife management area operated by any agency of the state or federal government.

(d) The exterior boundaries of the preserve are clearly defined and posted with signs erected around the extremity at intervals of 1,320 feet or less. The signs shall comply with requirements prescribed by the State Department of Fish and Wildlife.

(e) The applicant has facilities to propagate or hold not less than 500 of each wildlife species to be released for hunting.

(f) The applicant will not prevent or attempt to prevent public hunting on lands adjacent to the preserve.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The commission, by rule, shall prescribe the time, manner and place of hunting on private preserves, the wildlife species to be hunted, requirements for the care and marking of wildlife raised on the preserve, the release of wildlife received from another state, the procedures for marking indigenous wildlife incidentally taken on the preserve and the fees therefor, and record keeping and reporting procedures.

(b) Pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection, the commission shall:

(A) Allow private hunting preserve operators to use plastic poultry leg bands for marking wildlife species to be released for hunting.

(B) Allow the transportation of game birds killed on a private hunting preserve if the birds are cleaned, wrapped, packaged and accompanied by a transportation form from the preserve that states the number and sex of the birds being transported.

(C) Require private hunting preserve operators to have at least 10 resident private hunting preserve permits, 10 nonresident private hunting preserve permits and 10 wild bird seals. This requirement shall apply to each operator, regardless of the number of preserves operated by that person.

(4) No person shall hunt on a private hunting preserve unless the person first obtains from the commission a hunting license or a private hunting preserve permit. [1973 c.723 §63; 1999 c.667 §4; 2001 c.151 §1; 2001 c.161 §1; 2003 c.616 §1]

Source: Section 497.248 — Private hunting preserve license; requirements for preserve; rules; records , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.104 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.104
497.104 Access and habitat program funding
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of the wildlife laws, of the moneys received from the sale of the following licenses, the following amounts shall be deposited as provided for in ORS 496.242 (Access and habitat program funds) :

(1) Resident annual combination license issued under ORS 497.132 (Combined licenses for residents) , $4.

(2) Resident annual hunting license issued under ORS 497.102 (Hunting licenses and permits) (1)(a), $4.

(3) Nonresident annual hunting license issued under ORS 497.102 (Hunting licenses and permits) (1)(b), $4. [1993 c.659 §19; 1997 c.246 §1; 1999 c.1006 §12; 2003 c.203 §1; 2009 c.291 §1; 2015 c.779 §17; 2019 c.99 §2]

Note: 497.104 (Access and habitat program funding) was added to and made a part of ORS chapter 497 by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 497.104 — Access and habitat program funding , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.555 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.555
496.555 Contract on migratory waterfowl stamp matters
Status: in_force

In carrying out its duties, functions and powers with regard to the migratory waterfowl stamps, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission may contract for the performance of those duties, functions and powers. The contract may include, among other matters, provisions for advance payment or reimbursement for services performed pursuant to any such contract. All costs and expenses incurred pursuant to this section shall be paid from the Migratory Waterfowl Subaccount established under ORS 496.303 (Fish and Wildlife Account) . [1983 c.801 §4; 2001 c.822 §6; 2015 c.779 §46]

Source: Section 496.555 — Contract on migratory waterfowl stamp matters , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.216 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.216
498.216 Angling from fishways restricted
Status: in_force

Except as the State Fish and Wildlife Commission by rule may provide otherwise, no person shall trespass upon or angle from any fishway or angle within an area of a body of water bounded by a line extending across the body of water 200 feet above the upper end of a fishway and a line across the body of water 200 feet below the lower end of a fishway. [1973 c.723 §93]

Source: Section 498.216 — Angling from fishways restricted; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.441 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.441
497.441 Prohibited activities by those whose license, tag or permit has been revoked
Status: in_force

No person who has had a license, tag or permit revoked pursuant to ORS 497.415 (Revocation or denial of licenses, tags or permits for wildlife law violations or failure to comply with citation) shall engage in the activity for which the license, tag or permit is required:

(1) During the remainder of the period for which the license, tag or permit was issued; or

(2) During the period for which the person is prohibited by law from applying for or obtaining another such license, tag or permit. [1981 c.86 §2; 2009 c.778 §6]

Source: Section 497.441 — Prohibited activities by those whose license, tag or permit has been revoked , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.311 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.311
496.311 Limitation on size of revolving fund
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the revolving fund referred to in ORS 496.300 (State Wildlife Fund) shall not exceed $40,000. [1975 c.545 §9; 1979 c.461 §7]

Source: Section 496.311 — Limitation on size of revolving fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.670 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.670
496.670 Arrests made on Sunday
Status: in_force

The arrests mentioned in ORS 496.645 (Arrest without warrant of violators) may be made on Sunday. In this event the persons arrested shall be taken before any justice of the peace or judge having jurisdiction, who shall bind over the persons arrested to appear and be proceeded against as soon as may be on week day following the arrest. [Amended by 1991 c.267 §2]

Source: Section 496.670 — Arrests made on Sunday , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.340 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.340
496.340 Payments to counties in lieu of taxes
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, whenever real property owned by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission is exempt from taxation on January 1 of any year by reason of its ownership by the state, the commission shall pay to the county in which the property is situated an amount equal to the ad valorem taxes that would have been charged against the property if it had been assessed to a taxable owner as of January 1 of such year as provided in subsection (2) of this section. The county assessor shall determine the value of such property and shall notify the commission of the determination of the county assessor. Upon request of the commission, the Department of Revenue shall review the determination of value and shall redetermine the value if it concludes the value initially determined was substantially incorrect.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) or (c) of this subsection, the value of the property shall be computed at its assessed value under ORS 308A.107 (Value for farm use) or for forestland use, whichever is applicable.

(b) Paragraph (a) of this subsection shall not apply to any property upon which open field burning takes place. If open field burning takes place on any property described in this section, the property shall be valued at its highest and best use rather than the values authorized in paragraph (a) of this subsection on the January 1 following the date of the open field burning. If in the next year, the open field burning is discontinued, paragraph (a) of this subsection shall apply the next January 1 and each year thereafter as long as no open field burning occurs.

(c) Paragraph (a) of this subsection shall not apply to any property acquired by the commission after September 9, 1971, if such property was valued under farm use or forestland use special assessment provisions, at the time the property was acquired by the commission. However, no payments in lieu of taxes made to a county pursuant to this section prior to January 1, 1974, shall be refunded to the commission.

(3) This section does not apply to real property used for bird farms, fish hatcheries, office quarters, fishing access sites or impoundments, capital improvements or real property acquired pursuant to the Act of May 19, 1948 (62 Stat. 240), Public Law 80-537.

(4) The amount prescribed in subsection (1) of this section shall be determined annually by the assessor of the county in which the property is situated and certified by the assessor to the county court or the board of county commissioners. A notice of the determination, signed by the county judge or the chairperson of the board of county commissioners, shall be mailed to the principal office of the commission not later than October 15. The notice shall contain a statement of the value of the property and a complete explanation of the method used in computing the amount claimed pursuant to subsection (1) of this section. Not later than November 15, the commission shall pay each amount, less a discount equivalent to that which is provided in ORS 311.505 (Due dates) . Payment shall be made to the county treasurer, who shall distribute the payment to the taxing districts of the county in accordance with the schedule of percentages computed under ORS 311.390 (Tax and interest distribution percentage schedule) .

(5) Notwithstanding any other provision of the wildlife laws, the commission shall make the payments to counties required by this section annually from the moneys in the State Wildlife Fund established by ORS 496.300 (State Wildlife Fund) . [Amended by 1955 c.729 §1; 1971 c.356 §1; 1971 c.474 §1; 1973 c.723 §16; 1991 c.459 §420; 1997 c.541 §441; 1999 c.314 §73; 2005 c.755 §46]

Source: Section 496.340 — Payments to counties in lieu of taxes , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.432 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.432
498.432 Notice to applicant upon receipt of license application
Status: in_force

(1) Upon receipt in proper form of an application for a license to operate an outdoor club, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall issue a notice of filing to the applicant. Within 30 days from the date of the notice of filing, the commission shall enter an order granting or denying the license. If the license is denied, the commission shall give the applicant notice of the reasons therefor.

(2) If an order denying a license is not entered within 60 days from the date of notice of filing of an application, a license shall be considered granted unless the applicant has consented in writing to a delay.

(3) Orders of the commission regarding the issuance, renewal, suspension or revocation of a license shall be issued and reviewed in accordance with ORS chapter 183. [1973 c.749 §7]

Source: Section 498.432 — Notice to applicant upon receipt of license application; order granting or denying license; procedure , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.605 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.605
496.605 Enforcement of wildlife laws by State Fish and Wildlife Director, deputies and peace officers
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Director and any deputies of the director and all other peace officers of this state or any political subdivision thereof have jurisdiction of and may enforce any of the provisions of the wildlife laws. [Amended by 1973 c.723 §17]

Source: Section 496.605 — Enforcement of wildlife laws by State Fish and Wildlife Director, deputies and peace officers , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.300 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.300
496.300 State Wildlife Fund
Status: in_force

(1) The State Wildlife Fund is established in the State Treasury separate and distinct from the General Fund. Except as otherwise provided by law, all moneys received by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission pursuant to the wildlife laws, except such as may be required as a revolving fund for payroll and emergency expenses, shall be paid into the State Treasury and credited to the fund. All moneys in the fund are appropriated continuously to the commission to carry out the wildlife laws. Interest earnings on all moneys in the fund shall be retained in the fund.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The commission shall keep a record of all moneys deposited in the State Wildlife Fund. The record shall indicate by separate cumulative accounts the source from which the moneys are derived and the individual activity or program against which each withdrawal is charged.

(b) Using the record created pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection, the commission shall report, in the budget documents submitted to the Legislative Assembly, on the application of investment and interest earnings to the maintenance of fish hatcheries and other State Department of Fish and Wildlife facilities. [1973 c.723 §15; 1975 c.118 §1; 1975 c.253 §12; 1983 c.8 §1; 1983 c.801 §6; 1989 c.618 §10; 1989 c.749 §6; 1991 c.435 §2; 1991 c.858 §7; 1995 c.426 §7; 1999 c.1006 §1; 2001 c.822 §2]

Source: Section 496.300 — State Wildlife Fund; sources; uses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.166 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.166
498.166 Bears or cougars posing threat to human safety
Status: in_force

(1) Notwithstanding the licensing and tag requirements of ORS 497.102 (Hunting licenses and permits) , 497.112 (Hunting tags) , 497.127 (Youth licenses) and 497.132 (Combined licenses for residents) , a person may take a cougar or bear that poses a threat to human safety.

(2) Any person who takes a cougar or bear pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall immediately report the taking to a person authorized to enforce the wildlife laws and shall dispose of the animal in such manner as the State Fish and Wildlife Commission directs.

(3) Any regional office of the State Department of Fish and Wildlife ordering the disposal of an animal under subsection (2) of this section shall file a report with the State Fish and Wildlife Director within 30 days after the disposal. The report shall include but need not be limited to the disposition of the animal, the events leading to the taking of the animal and any injury caused by the animal to humans or domesticated animals. The director shall compile all reports received under this subsection on a bimonthly basis. The reports compiled by the director shall be available to the public upon request.

(4) As used in this section:

(a) “Structure” includes a building being used as a residence, a building located on land actively used for agricultural, timber management, ranching or construction purposes or a building used as part of a business.

(b) “Threat to human safety” means the exhibition by a cougar or bear of one or more of the following behaviors:

(A) Aggressive actions directed toward a person or persons, including but not limited to charging, false charging, growling, teeth popping and snarling.

(B) Breaking into, or attempting to break into, a residence.

(C) Attacking a pet or domestic animal as defined in ORS 167.310 (Definitions for ORS 167.310 to 167.351) .

(D) Loss of wariness of humans, displayed through repeated sightings of the animal during the day near a permanent structure, permanent corral or mobile dwelling used by humans at an agricultural, timber management, ranching or construction site. [2001 c.431 §2; 2015 c.779 §50]

Note: 498.166 (Bears or cougars posing threat to human safety) was added to and made a part of the wildlife laws by legislative action but was not added to ORS chapter 498 or any series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 498.166 — Bears or cougars posing threat to human safety , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.640 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.640
496.640 Service of process by law enforcement personnel
Status: in_force

The persons mentioned in ORS 496.645 (Arrest without warrant of violators) have all powers and rights of a peace officer in serving warrants, subpoenas or other legal process in the enforcement of the wildlife laws. [Amended by 1971 c.658 §14; 1973 c.723 §22]

Source: Section 496.640 — Service of process by law enforcement personnel , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.257 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.257
498.257 Prohibition on possession, sale, trade or distribution of shark fins
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section:

(a) “Shark fin” means the raw or dried fin or tail of a shark.

(b) “Spiny dogfish” means a shark belonging to the family Squalidae in the order Squaliformes that has two spines, one anterior to each dorsal fin, and that does not have an anal fin.

(2) A person may not possess, sell or offer for sale, trade or distribute a shark fin in this state.

(3) This section does not apply to:

(a) A person who possesses, sells or offers for sale, trades or distributes a shark fin from a spiny dogfish that was legally taken or landed under rules adopted by the State Department of Fish and Wildlife and in accordance with federal regulations; and

(b) A person who holds a license or permit issued by the State Department of Fish and Wildlife under the wildlife laws to take a shark and who possesses, sells or offers for sale, trades or distributes a shark fin consistent with the terms of that license or permit. [2011 c.371 §4]

Source: Section 498.257 — Prohibition on possession, sale, trade or distribution of shark fins; exceptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.830 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.830
496.830 Penalty fee
Status: in_force

A person who fails to pay the fee required under section 4, chapter 674, Oregon Laws 1985, or the assessment under section 5, chapter 674, Oregon Laws 1985, or ORS 543.265 (Testing of fish protection measures as condition for hydroelectric project permit or license) on the due date shall pay in addition to the assessed amount due, a penalty in the amount of one percent of the fee per month for the period that the fee is past due. The State Fish and Wildlife Director may bring an action to collect an unpaid fee or assessment in the name of the State of Oregon in the Circuit Court of Marion County or the circuit court of the county in which the project is located. The director shall be entitled to recover all costs and attorney fees incurred in the legal action. [1985 c.674 §7]

Source: Section 496.830 — Penalty fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.012 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.012
497.012 Validity of licenses on Snake River
Status: in_force

(1) Angling, hunting or trapping in the waters of the Snake River or on the islands of the Snake River, where the river forms the boundary line between the State of Oregon and the State of Idaho, by a holder of either a valid Oregon or Idaho license therefor in accordance with the laws and rules of the respective states is lawful.

(2) Nothing in this section is intended to authorize:

(a) The holder of an Oregon license to angle, hunt or trap on the shoreline, sloughs or tributaries on the Idaho side of the Snake River.

(b) The holder of an Idaho license to angle, hunt or trap on the shoreline, sloughs or tributaries on the Oregon side of the Snake River. [1973 c.723 §43]

Source: Section 497.012 — Validity of licenses on Snake River , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.385 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.385
496.385 Nongame Wildlife Fund
Status: in_force

(1) There is established as a separate and distinct fund in the State Treasury a Nongame Wildlife Fund. The Nongame Wildlife Fund shall consist of:

(a) An amount credited to the fund under ORS 305.690 (Definitions for ORS 305.690 to 305.753) to 305.753 (State Treasurer may solicit donations to eligible entities) , which shall be transferred by the Department of Revenue to the fund.

(b) Gifts, grants and donations, in money or otherwise, for use as described in subsection (2) of this section, which the State Treasurer may solicit and accept from private and public sources and shall cause to be deposited and credited to the Nongame Wildlife Fund.

(c) Interest or other earnings on the amounts described in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subsection which shall inure to the benefit of the Nongame Wildlife Fund.

(2) Moneys contained in the Nongame Wildlife Fund are continuously appropriated for the purposes specified in ORS 496.390 (Control over fund by department) . [1979 c.566 §3; 1987 c.758 §4; 1989 c.987 §22; 2007 c.822 §21]

Source: Section 496.385 — Nongame Wildlife Fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.375 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.375
496.375 “Nongame wildlife” defined
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 496.385 (Nongame Wildlife Fund) and 496.390 (Control over fund by department) “nongame wildlife” means all wildlife species over which the State Fish and Wildlife Commission has jurisdiction, except game mammals, as defined in ORS 496.004 (Definitions) , fur-bearing mammals as defined in ORS 496.004 (Definitions) , game birds as defined in ORS 496.007 (“Game bird” defined) and game fish as defined in ORS 496.009 (“Game fish” defined) . [1979 c.566 §1; 2021 c.8 §13]

Source: Section 496.375 — “Nongame wildlife” defined , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.326 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.326
498.326 Department guidelines for screening and by-pass projects
Status: in_force

(1) The State Department of Fish and Wildlife shall establish guidelines to determine the need for and location of potential fish screening and by-pass projects. The guidelines shall include a plan to be used for determining priorities for and expected costs of installing and maintaining the fish screening and by-pass devices.

(2) Nothing in subsection (1) of this section is intended to prevent the State Department of Fish and Wildlife from expending federal or other funds if such funds become available for the installation and maintenance of fish screening and by-pass projects. [Formerly 498.256]

Note: 498.326 (Department guidelines for screening and by-pass projects) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 498 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 498.326 — Department guidelines for screening and by-pass projects; expenditure of funds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.615 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.615
496.615 Commission employees to supplement state police
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Commission, with the approval of the Governor and Superintendent of State Police, may employ such persons as they deem necessary or expedient for the enforcement of the wildlife laws. The services and expenses of these persons are payable out of the State Wildlife Fund. It is the intention of this section and ORS 496.610 (State police to enforce wildlife laws) that the commission employ only such persons as agreed upon between the commission, the Governor and the Superintendent of State Police, and that the duties of wildlife law enforcement, so far as is economical and practicable, be performed by the Department of State Police. [Amended by 1973 c.723 §19]

Source: Section 496.615 — Commission employees to supplement state police , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.128 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.128
498.128 Use of drones for pursuit of wildlife prohibited
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall adopt rules prohibiting the use of drones for the following purposes related to the pursuit of wildlife:

(a) Angling;

(b) Hunting;

(c) Trapping;

(d) Aiding angling, hunting or trapping through the use of drones to harass, track, locate or scout wildlife; and

(e) Interfering in the acts of a person who is lawfully angling, hunting or trapping.

(2) Rules adopted to carry out the prohibitions provided for in this section may include exemptions for:

(a) Subject to ORS 837.360 (Restrictions) , the State Department of Fish and Wildlife and the department’s agents and contractors for the use of drones in carrying out the duties of the department; or

(b) The use of drones in a manner otherwise prohibited under this section if the purpose of the use is to benefit wildlife management or habitat or for the protection of property.

(3) Nothing in this section is meant to limit the use of drones by a person who is lawfully engaging in activities authorized under the commercial fishing laws.

(4) As used in this section, “drone” means:

(a) An unmanned flying machine;

(b) An unmanned water-based vehicle; or

(c) Any other vehicle that is able to operate in the air, in or under the water or on land, either remotely or autonomously, and without a human occupant. [2015 c.61 §1; 2016 c.72 §14]

Note: 498.128 (Use of drones for pursuit of wildlife prohibited) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 498 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 498.128 — Use of drones for pursuit of wildlife prohibited; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.006 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.006
498.006 Chasing or harassing wildlife prohibited
Status: in_force

Except as the State Fish and Wildlife Commission by rule may provide otherwise, no person shall chase, harass, molest, worry or disturb any wildlife except while engaged in lawfully angling for, taking, hunting or trapping such wildlife. [1973 c.723 §74; 2003 c.656 §11]

Source: Section 498.006 — Chasing or harassing wildlife prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.829 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.829
498.829 Officers
Status: in_force

(1) The Oregon Hatchery Research Center Board shall select one of its members as chairperson and another as vice chairperson, for such terms and with duties and powers necessary for the performance of the functions of such offices as the board determines.

(2) A majority of the voting members of the board constitutes a quorum for the transaction of business.

(3) The board shall meet at least once every three months at a place, day and hour determined by the board. The board may also meet at other times and places specified by the call of the chairperson or of a majority of the members of the board. [2013 c.664 §4]

Note: See note under 498.825 (Oregon Hatchery Research Center Board) .

Source: Section 498.829 — Officers; quorum; meetings , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.032 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.032
498.032 Angling or hunting for compensation in violation of wildlife laws or rules prohibited
Status: in_force

No person shall angle for or hunt, or offer to angle for or hunt, for compensation, any wildlife in violation of any provision of the wildlife laws or any rule promulgated pursuant thereto. [1973 c.723 §78]

Source: Section 498.032 — Angling or hunting for compensation in violation of wildlife laws or rules prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.268 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.268
497.268 Inspection of occupational licenses
Status: in_force

The holder of any license issued pursuant to ORS 497.218 (Fur dealer license) to 497.248 (Private hunting preserve license) shall consent to the inspection by any person authorized to enforce the wildlife laws of any such license and any records the holder is required to keep by the wildlife laws or any rule promulgated pursuant thereto. [1973 c.723 §64]

Source: Section 497.268 — Inspection of occupational licenses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.321 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.321
498.321 Screening or by-pass standards
Status: in_force

(1) In order to carry out the provisions of ORS 498.301 (Policy) and 498.306 (Screening or by-pass devices for water diversions) , the following minimum standards and criteria apply to actions of the State Fish and Wildlife Commission and the State Department of Fish and Wildlife with regard to fish screening or by-pass devices:

(a) Standards and criteria shall address the overall level of protection necessary at a given water diversion and may not favor one technology or technique over another.

(b) Standards and criteria shall take into account at least the following factors relating to the fish populations present at a water diversion:

(A) The source of the population, whether native or introduced and whether hatchery or wild.

(B) The status of the population, whether endangered, threatened or sensitive.

(c) Standards and criteria may take into account the cumulative effects of other water diversions on the fish populations being protected.

(d) Design and engineering recommendations shall consider cost-effectiveness.

(e) Alternative design and installation proposals must be approved if they can be demonstrated to provide an equal level of protection to fish populations as those recommended by the department.

(2) In order to maximize effectiveness and promote consistency relating to the protection of fish at nonhydroelectric water diversions, the department shall establish a single organizational entity to administer all agency activities related to fish screening and by-pass devices.

(3) The department shall emphasize cooperative effort and mutual understanding with those responsible for water diversions that need fish screening or by-pass devices.

(4) The department shall aggressively investigate and encourage the development of new technologies and techniques to provide protection for fish populations at water diversions in order to reduce initial costs, reduce operating costs and improve cost-effectiveness. [1993 c.478 §3; 2005 c.22 §371]

Source: Section 498.321 — Screening or by-pass standards , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.142 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.142
497.142 Fur-bearer trapping or hunting license and tag
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission is authorized to issue, upon application, to persons desiring to take fur-bearing mammals the following licenses and shall charge the applicable fee under the fee schedule in ORS 497.061 (License, tag and permit fee schedule) :

(a) Resident annual license to trap or hunt fur-bearing mammals.

(b) Annual youth license to trap or hunt fur-bearing mammals.

(c) Resident annual license to hunt fur-bearing mammals.

(d) Nonresident annual fur-takers license to trap or hunt fur-bearing mammals.

(2) The commission is authorized to issue, upon application, fur-bearer annual tags to take fur-bearing mammals.

(3) The tags referred to in subsection (2) of this section are in addition to and not in lieu of the licenses referred to in subsection (1)(c) and (d) of this section. [1973 c.723 §55; 1979 c.774 §1; 1987 c.255 §4; 2009 c.832 §10; 2015 c.779 §25]

Source: Section 497.142 — Fur-bearer trapping or hunting license and tag , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.141 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.141
497.141 Fish Passage Restoration Subaccount
Status: in_force

(1) There is created a Fish Passage Restoration Subaccount within the Fish Passage Fund established under ORS 497.139 (Fish Passage Fund) . Fees described in ORS 543.765 (Certificate to use water for hydroelectric purposes within artificial delivery system) (15) shall be paid into the subaccount. The State Department of Fish and Wildlife may solicit and accept additional moneys for crediting to the subaccount, including but not limited to federal funds, appropriations, donations, grants from nongovernmental entities and moneys from other public or private sources. Any interest earned by moneys within the subaccount shall be credited to the subaccount.

(2) The department shall use the subaccount moneys to fund priority fish passage restoration projects. The department shall give priority to the funding of projects on the statewide inventory of artificial obstructions priority list described in ORS 509.585 (Fish passage required for artificial obstructions) , with an emphasis on those statewide priority list projects that also pay fees under ORS 543.765 (Certificate to use water for hydroelectric purposes within artificial delivery system) (15), and give priority to projects that have the ability to leverage matching dollars. The department may not use subaccount moneys to fund culvert projects or projects that are state-owned structures. The department may not expend more than six percent of the annual contributions to the subaccount to pay staffing costs associated with the advancement of capital projects funded by the subaccount. [2013 c.674 §1; 2023 c.49 §3]

Note: 497.141 (Fish Passage Restoration Subaccount) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 497 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 497.141 — Fish Passage Restoration Subaccount; sources; uses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.228 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.228
498.228 Possession of fish taken outside state restricted
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section:

(a) No person shall possess or import into this state from the waters of the Pacific Ocean beyond the boundaries of this state any game fish unless the person has in possession those valid angling licenses, tags and permits required therefor by the wildlife laws or rules promulgated pursuant thereto.

(b) No person shall possess or import into this state from any waters beyond the boundaries of this state any game fish in excess of the amount prescribed by the wildlife laws or rules promulgated pursuant thereto.

(2) Subsection (1) of this section does not apply to:

(a) The possession or importation of fish taken pursuant to the commercial fishing laws; or

(b) The possession or importation of fish taken in the waters of another state, a territory of the United States or a foreign country pursuant to the laws of such state, territory or foreign country. [1973 c.723 §95]

Source: Section 498.228 — Possession of fish taken outside state restricted , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.464 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.464
498.464 Commission authority to restrain violations of outdoor club laws
Status: in_force

(1) Whenever the State Fish and Wildlife Commission has cause to believe that any person is engaged in or is about to engage in any acts or practices that constitute a violation of ORS 498.400 (Definitions for ORS 498.400 to 498.464) to 498.464 (Commission authority to restrain violations of outdoor club laws) and 498.993 (Penalty for violation of outdoor club laws) , or any rule promulgated pursuant thereto, that requires immediate action to protect the wildlife resources of this state, the commission shall institute actions or proceedings for legal or equitable remedies to restrain the violation or threatened action.

(2) The actions or proceedings authorized by subsection (1) of this section may be instituted without necessity of a prior administrative proceeding, or at any time during an administrative proceeding if a proceeding has been commenced. [1973 c.749 §12; 1979 c.284 §160]

Source: Section 498.464 — Commission authority to restrain violations of outdoor club laws , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.272 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.272
496.272 Wildlife Corridor Action Plan
Status: in_force

(1) The State Department of Fish and Wildlife shall collect, analyze and develop the best available science and data regarding the connectivity of wildlife habitat areas. The State Department of Fish and Wildlife, in cooperation with the Department of Transportation, shall use the data to develop a plan, to be known as the Wildlife Corridor Action Plan, to preserve long-term habitat connectivity for wildlife as defined in ORS 496.004 (Definitions) . The plan shall provide guidance for all state agencies to develop benchmarks for the designation and protection of wildlife corridors in Oregon.

(2) The Wildlife Corridor Action Plan shall, at a minimum, include:

(a) Identification of species of concern that are at risk from habitat fragmentation or barriers to species movement.

(b) Identification of the known migration and dispersal corridors for species identified under paragraph (a) of this subsection.

(c) A description of the potential effects of climate change on the movement of species identified under paragraph (a) of this subsection.

(d) Identification of known and potential human-caused barriers in Oregon that negatively affect wildlife habitat connectivity.

(e) A contemporary map showing existing and potential wildlife corridors and core high quality habitat areas.

(f) A list of areas for which designation of wildlife corridors, land acquisition or other agency actions are of high priority to protect wildlife movement or habitat connectivity. The bases for identification of the high priority areas shall include but not be limited to a designation of a species by the federal government or the State Fish and Wildlife Commission as an endangered species or threatened species.

(3) The State Department of Fish and Wildlife shall review and update the Wildlife Corridor Action Plan every five years. Prior to final adoption of the plan or of a plan update the department shall:

(a) Post the plan or update on the department website and provide an opportunity for public comment; and

(b) Deliver a copy of the plan or update to Senate and House interim or regular committees relating to natural resources.

(4) Prior to final adoption of a proposed update, the State Department of Fish and Wildlife shall prepare a report on implementation of the update, including but not limited to information concerning changes in the number of high priority wildlife corridors established or planned. The State Department of Fish and Wildlife shall post the report on the department website and deliver the report to Senate and House interim or regular committees relating to natural resources. [2019 c.272 §1]

Note: 496.272 (Wildlife Corridor Action Plan) and 496.273 (Agency assistance and advice regarding plan) were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 496 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 496.272 — Wildlife Corridor Action Plan , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.016 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.016
498.016 Taking crippled or helpless wildlife
Status: in_force

Nothing in the wildlife laws is intended to prohibit any person from killing any crippled or helpless wildlife when the killing is done for a humane purpose. Any person so killing any wildlife shall immediately report such killing to a person authorized to enforce the wildlife laws, and shall dispose of the wildlife in such manner as the State Fish and Wildlife Commission directs. [1973 c.723 §76]

Source: Section 498.016 — Taking crippled or helpless wildlife , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.228 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.228
496.228 Access and Habitat Board
Status: in_force

(1) There is established within the State Department of Fish and Wildlife the Access and Habitat Board, consisting of seven members appointed by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission.

(2) Three members shall be appointed to represent the broad spectrum of hunters. In making appointments pursuant to this subsection, the commission shall consider recommendations from the State Fish and Wildlife Director.

(3) Three members of the board shall be appointed to represent the broad spectrum of agriculture and timber landowners. In making appointments pursuant to this subsection, the commission shall consider recommendations from the State Fish and Wildlife Director from a list of at least five persons submitted by the State Forester and the Director of Agriculture.

(4) One member of the board shall be appointed to represent the public and shall serve as the board chairperson.

(5) A member of the board shall receive no compensation for services as a member. However, subject to any applicable law regulating travel and other expenses of state officers and employees, a member shall be reimbursed for actual and necessary travel and other expenses incurred in the performance of official duties from such moneys as are made available by ORS 497.104 (Access and habitat program funding) .

(6) The term of office of a member of the board is four years. A member of the board is eligible for reappointment.

(7) An official action of the board may be taken only upon the affirmative vote of at least four members.

(8) The board shall select such officers for such terms and with such duties and powers as the board considers necessary for the performance of those offices.

(9) The board shall meet at such times and at such places as may be determined by the chair or by the majority of the members of the board. [1993 c.659 §15; 2009 c.291 §3]

Source: Section 496.228 — Access and Habitat Board; qualification of members; expenses; term; meetings , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.695 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.695
496.695 Counseling, aiding or sharing in violation
Status: in_force

Any person who counsels, aids or assists in any violation of the wildlife laws, or shares in any of the proceeds of such violation by receiving or possessing any wildlife, shall incur the penalties provided for the person guilty of such violation. [Amended by 1971 c.658 §21; 1973 c.723 §30]

Source: Section 496.695 — Counseling, aiding or sharing in violation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.018 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.018
496.018 Person with disability under wildlife laws
Status: in_force

In order to be considered a person with a disability under the wildlife laws, a person shall provide to the State Fish and Wildlife Commission either:

(1) Written certification from a licensed physician, licensed nurse practitioner or licensed physician assistant that states that the person:

(a) Is permanently unable to walk without the use of, or assistance from, a brace, cane, crutch, prosthetic device, wheelchair, scooter or walker;

(b) Is restricted by lung disease to the extent that the person’s forced expiratory volume for one second, when measured by a spirometer, is less than 35 percent predicted, or arterial oxygen tension is less than 55 mm/Hg on room air at rest;

(c) Has a cardiac condition to the extent that the person’s functional limitations are classified in severity as Class III or Class IV, according to standards established by the American Heart Association;

(d) Has a permanent, physical impairment that prevents the person from holding or shooting a firearm or bow or from holding a fishing rod in hand; or

(e) Has central visual acuity that permanently does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye with corrective lenses, or the widest diameter of the visual field is no greater than 20 degrees; or

(2) Written proof that the last official certification of record by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or any branch of the Armed Forces of the United States shows the person to be at least 65 percent disabled. [1999 c.25 §2; 2001 c.571 §1; 2005 c.471 §12; 2007 c.587 §1; 2019 c.358 §17]

STATE DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE; COMMISSION; DIRECTOR; DUTIES AND POWERS GENERALLY

Source: Section 496.018 — Person with disability under wildlife laws , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.026 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.026
497.026 Duty of license agents to remit funds
Status: in_force

(1) No agent appointed by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission to issue licenses, tags or permits shall fail to remit to the commission moneys received from the issuance of licenses, tags and permits in the manner required by this section.

(2) The commission shall, by rule, prescribe the method in which license agents shall remit all moneys belonging to the state accruing from the issuance of licenses, tags and permits.

(3) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, the commission shall not require a license agent to remit moneys from the issuance of licenses, tags and permits more often than once each month if:

(a) The license agent issues licenses, tags and permits in the amount of $12,500 or less each year; and

(b) The license agent does not use a state computerized licensing system to issue licenses, tags and permits. [1973 c.723 §46; 1975 c.85 §1; 1987 c.345 §2; 1989 c.573 §2]

Source: Section 497.026 — Duty of license agents to remit funds; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.259 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.259
496.259 Private Forest Accord Mitigation Advisory Committee
Status: repealed

(1) The Private Forest Accord Mitigation Advisory Committee is established as an advisory committee to the State Fish and Wildlife Commission and the State Department of Fish and Wildlife for the purpose of carrying out the duties described in subsection (11) of this section.

(2) The committee shall consist of up to 12 members, including seven voting members appointed pursuant to subsections (3) and (4) of this section and up to five nonvoting members as provided for in subsection (5) of this section.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The Governor shall appoint the following six voting members:

(A) Three members who represent the timber industry.

(B) Three members who represent nongovernmental organizations that promote conservation of freshwater aquatic habitat.

(b) In appointing members, the Governor shall solicit and consider recommendations from the timber industry and nongovernmental organizations that promote conservation of freshwater aquatic habitat.

(4) The members of the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee shall select and appoint from among themselves one person to serve as a voting member of the Private Forest Accord Mitigation Advisory Committee.

(5) The department shall appoint up to five nonvoting members recommended by:

(a) The State Forestry Department.

(b) The Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board.

(c) The State Department of Fish and Wildlife.

(d) The United States Fish and Wildlife Service.

(e) The National Marine Fisheries Service.

(6) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The term of a voting member is four years.

(b) Before the expiration of the term of a voting member, the appropriate appointing authority shall appoint a successor whose term begins on the following January 31.

(c) A voting member may be reappointed but may not serve for more than two full terms.

(d) A voting member appointed by the Governor may be removed only for cause.

(7) In case of a vacancy, the appropriate appointing authority shall make an appointment to become effective immediately for the unexpired portion of the term.

(8) The voting members shall biennially select from among themselves a chairperson and vice chairperson.

(9) The committee shall meet at least four times per year.

(10) A majority of the voting members constitutes a quorum for the transaction of business.

(11) The committee shall:

(a) Review State Department of Fish and Wildlife policies regarding the use of moneys deposited in the Private Forest Accord Mitigation Subaccount of the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund and make recommendations to the commission and the department regarding the use of moneys in the subaccount.

(b) Solicit and review grant applications under the Private Forest Accord Grant Program described in ORS 496.257 (Private Forest Accord Grant Program) and advise the commission and department on how to award grants in a manner that will most effectively mitigate the impacts of forest practices, as defined in ORS 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) .

(12) In undertaking the duties described in subsection (11) of this section, the committee may solicit and consider recommendations from, and otherwise coordinate with, the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee.

(13) Members of the Private Forest Accord Mitigation Advisory Committee may receive compensation and expenses as described in ORS 292.495 (Compensation and expenses of members of state boards and commissions) . [2022 c.33 §30]

Note: 496.259 (Private Forest Accord Mitigation Advisory Committee) is repealed only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (note preceding 496.257 (Private Forest Accord Grant Program) ).

Note: See second note under 496.257 (Private Forest Accord Grant Program) .

Note: Section 31, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, provides:

Sec. 31. (1) Notwithstanding section 30 (3) of this 2022 Act [ 496.259 (Private Forest Accord Mitigation Advisory Committee) (3)], the voting members first appointed by the Governor to the Private Forest Accord Mitigation Advisory Committee must be representatives of six authors of the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022.

(2) Notwithstanding section 30 (6)(a) of this 2022 Act, of the voting members first appointed by the Governor:

(a) Two shall serve for terms ending one year after the date of appointment.

(b) Two shall serve for terms ending two years after the date of appointment.

(c) Two shall serve for terms ending three years after the date of appointment. [2022 c.33 §31]

Note: Section 31, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, is repealed only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (note preceding 496.257 (Private Forest Accord Grant Program) ).

Source: Section 496.259 — Private Forest Accord Mitigation Advisory Committee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.116 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.116
496.116 Delegation of rulemaking authority to director
Status: in_force

(1) In exercising any authority to adopt administrative rules delegated by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission under ORS 496.112 (State Fish and Wildlife Director) , the State Fish and Wildlife Director shall comply with the requirements of ORS 496.138 (Commission policies and programs) .

(2) Notwithstanding ORS 183.400 (Judicial determination of validity of rule) , for any rule adopted by the director pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, before a person may petition the Court of Appeals to determine the validity of the rule, the person shall first request that the State Fish and Wildlife Commission determine the validity of the rule. The determination of the commission may be reviewed in accordance with ORS 183.400 (Judicial determination of validity of rule) . [1999 c.697 §5]

Source: Section 496.116 — Delegation of rulemaking authority to director; requirements , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.206 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.206
496.206 Written request for salmon
Status: in_force

(1) The Indian tribes referred to in ORS 496.201 (Department to furnish salmon for ceremonies) (1) are required to set forth, in writing, their request for salmon. This request shall be submitted by the duly elected tribal governing body no later than 40 days prior to the ceremony and shall include:

(a) The poundage of salmon required;

(b) The date of the ceremony; and

(c) A contact person that the state may refer questions to.

(2) Prior to any state action, the written request must be received by:

(a) The State Department of Fish and Wildlife;

(b) The Attorney General; and

(c) The United States Department of Interior.

(3) The salmon shall be provided to the Indian tribes referred to in ORS 496.201 (Department to furnish salmon for ceremonies) (1) no later than 30 days after receiving a proper written request therefor. [1981 c.575 §3; 1987 c.99 §2]

Source: Section 496.206 — Written request for salmon; contents; time for providing salmon , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.246 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.246
496.246 Use of public lands for hunting
Status: in_force

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) As used in this section, “public lands” means any land, or improvements thereon, owned by the State of Oregon.

(b) Public lands open to access and use for hunting shall remain open to access and use for hunting, except as limited by a state agency for reasons of public safety or wildlife management or for any other reason determined by a state agency to be in the public interest. However, a state agency is not required to give preference to hunting over other uses of public lands.

(2) In implementing subsection (1) of this section, state agencies shall, to the greatest extent practicable, avoid making determinations that result in a net loss of access to hunting on public lands.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Before a state agency restricts or closes access to public lands open to access and use for hunting, the state agency shall notify the State Department of Fish and Wildlife in a sufficient amount of time of the plans to restrict or close access to the public lands in order to allow the department to post notice pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection.

(b) In order to give hunters notice that a state agency plans to restrict or close access to public lands open to access and use for hunting and before a state agency may restrict or close access to the public lands, the department shall post notice on the department’s website for 30 days after it receives notification under paragraph (a) of this subsection.

(c) Paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subsection do not apply to restrictions or closures for:

(A) Emergencies.

(B) Fire prevention pursuant to the provisions of ORS 401.165 (Declaration of state of emergency) to 401.236 (Rules) or 477.535 (Forester may proclaim forestland subject to restricted uses) to 477.550 (Violation of restrictions) .

(C) Critical wildlife management activities.

(4) On or before January 1 of each year, the State Fish and Wildlife Director shall submit a report to the Legislative Assembly that describes:

(a) The amount, in acres, of public lands open to access and use for hunting that has been closed to hunting by state agencies in the previous calendar year and the reasons for each closure; and

(b) The amount, in acres, of public lands that has been opened to access and use for hunting by state agencies in the previous calendar year. [2011 c.454 §2]

Source: Section 496.246 — Use of public lands for hunting; requirements regarding closure of access to public lands; exceptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.280 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.280
496.280 Findings
Status: in_force

The Legislative Assembly finds, in the interest of all Oregonians, a necessity to improve Oregon’s fishery resource through the further involvement of its citizens and through support by additional financial revenues. [1989 c.512 §2]

Note: 496.280 (Findings) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 496 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 496.280 — Findings , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 501.490 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 501 / Section 501.490
501.490 Lake Lytle Wildlife Refuge
Status: in_force

There is created a wildlife refuge in Tillamook County, to be known as Lake Lytle Wildlife Refuge of the land and waters within the following described boundaries: Beginning at the northeast corner of section 29, township 2 north, range 10 west of Willamette Meridian; running thence west to the mean low water line of Pacific Ocean; thence southerly along the mean low water line of Pacific Ocean to the middle east and west line of section 32, in such township and range; thence east to the east line of section 32; thence north to the place of beginning. [Amended by 1973 c.723 §114]

Source: Section 501.490 — Lake Lytle Wildlife Refuge , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors501.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.216 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.216
496.216 Disposition of salmon remaining after ceremony
Status: in_force

Any salmon remaining after the ceremony may be distributed to tribal members without charge for their subsistence consumption only and not for sale, barter or gift to others, or may be donated to a nonprofit institution or agency. [1981 c.575 §5]

Source: Section 496.216 — Disposition of salmon remaining after ceremony , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.318 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.318
497.318 Revocation of scientific taking or wildlife holding and habitat removal permits
Status: in_force

In accordance with any applicable provision of ORS chapter 183, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission may revoke a permit issued pursuant to ORS 497.298 (Scientific taking permit) or 497.308 (Wildlife holding and habitat removal permits) if the commission determines that the holder of the permit has violated any of the terms or conditions thereof. Revocation of a permit is in addition to and not in lieu of any other penalty provided by law for violation of the terms or conditions of the permit. [1973 c.723 §67]

Source: Section 497.318 — Revocation of scientific taking or wildlife holding and habitat removal permits , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.444 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.444
498.444 Information developed in licensing process as public record
Status: in_force

Each application to the State Fish and Wildlife Commission for a license to operate an outdoor club, all information submitted with the application, and all information obtained by the commission through investigation of applications, is a public record. [1973 c.749 §9]

Source: Section 498.444 — Information developed in licensing process as public record , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.327 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.327
497.327 Priority for certain applications for permit for sturgeon hatchery operation
Status: in_force

When considering an application for a permit under ORS 497.325 (Sturgeon hatchery operation permits) , the State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall, to the greatest extent practicable, give priority to any person who holds a permit on December 31, 2007, unless the commission finds good cause not to give such priority. [2007 c.342 §2]

Note: 497.327 (Priority for certain applications for permit for sturgeon hatchery operation) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 497 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 497.327 — Priority for certain applications for permit for sturgeon hatchery operation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.452 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.452
498.452 Grounds for denial or revocation of license
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may refuse to issue or renew a license to operate an outdoor club, or may revoke a license that has been previously issued if the commission finds:

(1) Failure by the outdoor club or person advertising the sale of membership in the outdoor club to comply with the provisions of ORS 498.400 (Definitions for ORS 498.400 to 498.464) to 498.464 (Commission authority to restrain violations of outdoor club laws) and 498.993 (Penalty for violation of outdoor club laws) or any rule promulgated pursuant thereto;

(2) That the promotional plan for the sale of outdoor club membership is false, deceptive or misleading, or that the promotional plan for the sale of membership is not in conformity with the plan submitted with the license application and approved by the commission;

(3) That any land upon which it has been represented that outdoor club activities are to be conducted is unsuitable for the purposes for which represented;

(4) That any obligation, guaranty or warranty to members of the club by the outdoor club that was included in the promotional plan for the sale of membership or in the contract or other documents relating to membership is not being fulfilled or that adequate financial arrangements to secure performance of such obligations, guaranties or warranties has not been made; or

(5) That the proposed outdoor club activities would have adverse effect upon existing wildlife populations or habitat or upon wildlife-oriented recreation. [1973 c.749 §10]

Source: Section 498.452 — Grounds for denial or revocation of license , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.126 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.126
498.126 Hunting or assisting others to hunt or locate game animals or birds by aircraft prohibited
Status: in_force

(1) A person may not:

(a) Hunt game mammals or game birds from or with the aid of an aircraft.

(b) Transmit from an aircraft to a person not in the aircraft information regarding the location of any game mammals or game birds.

(c) Otherwise use an aircraft to assist another person in hunting or locating game mammals or game birds for the purpose of hunting.

(2) A person may not hunt any game mammal within eight hours after having been transported by aircraft to or from any place other than a recognized airport that the Oregon Department of Aviation has licensed as a public use airport, registered as a personal use airport or specifically exempted from licensing or registration.

(3) Every pilot shall maintain a log book that shows the names and addresses of record of the persons transported, point of departure, point of destination, time and date of each flight that the pilot makes in an aircraft within this state to transport a person to or from any place to hunt. The log book is subject to inspection by any person authorized to enforce the wildlife laws.

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Notwithstanding subsections (1) to (3) of this section, and except as provided in subsection (5) of this section, the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, or its agents, may conduct wildlife management activities necessary for scientific research or, in emergency situations, to protect human safety, wildlife species or property by:

(A) Hunting game mammals or game birds from or with the aid of an aircraft; or

(B) Transmitting from an aircraft information regarding the location of any game mammal or game bird.

(b) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall define by rule the terms “emergency situations” and “necessary” for purposes of implementation of this section.

(5) If the definition of “game mammal” in ORS 496.004 (Definitions) is modified to include wolves, then the department may conduct wolf management activities under this section only under a statewide wolf management plan adopted by the commission. [1973 c.723 §87; 1987 c.277 §1; 1989 c.448 §1; 1999 c.935 §30; 2003 c.566 §1; 2003 c.762 §1]

Source: Section 498.126 — Hunting or assisting others to hunt or locate game animals or birds by aircraft prohibited; exemption; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.286 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.286
496.286 Restoration and Enhancement Board
Status: in_force

(1) There is established within the State Department of Fish and Wildlife the Restoration and Enhancement Board, consisting of seven members appointed by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission.

(2) Three members shall be appointed to represent the ocean and inland recreational fisheries. In making appointments pursuant to this subsection, the commission shall consider recommendations from the State Fish and Wildlife Director.

(3) Three members of the board shall be appointed to represent the commercial salmon industry. In making appointments pursuant to this subsection, the commission shall consider recommendations from the State Fish and Wildlife Director.

(4) One member of the board shall be appointed to represent the public.

(5) A member of the board shall receive no compensation for services as a member. However, subject to any applicable law regulating travel and other expenses of state officers and employees, a member shall be reimbursed for actual and necessary travel and other expenses incurred in the performance of official duties from such moneys made available by ORS 497.126 (Use of certain moneys from angling licenses) , 508.288 (Commercial fishing permit surcharges) and 508.506 (Additional payments on certain fish species) .

(6) The term of office of a member of the board is four years. A member of the board is eligible for reappointment.

(7) An official action of the board may be taken only upon the affirmative vote of four members.

(8) The board shall select such officers for such terms and with such duties and powers as the board considers necessary for the performance of those offices.

(9) Subject to ORS 496.289 (Duties of board) (2), the board shall meet at such times and at such places as may be determined by the chair or by the majority of the members of the board. [1989 c.512 §11; 2019 c.458 §2]

Source: Section 496.286 — Restoration and Enhancement Board , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.440 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.440
496.440 Enhancement program to be conducted by commission
Status: in_force

A salmon and trout enhancement program shall be conducted by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission to benefit all users of the salmon and trout resources in this state. The program shall be conducted in such manner as to provide the greatest possible opportunity for citizen volunteer participation to achieve the goals of the program. [1981 c.317 §4]

Source: Section 496.440 — Enhancement program to be conducted by commission; objective , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.152 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.152
498.152 Agreements restricting parking or use of motor vehicles on certain lands
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may enter into agreements with the owners or lawful possessors of land to restrict the operation or parking of motor-propelled vehicles on the land when the commission determines that such operation or parking is damaging wildlife or wildlife habitat.

(2) An agreement shall restrict the types and uses of motor-propelled vehicles on the land and shall specify the times and places that such restrictions apply.

(3) The commission shall cause notice of the restrictions, including the effective date thereof, to be posted on the main traveled roads entering the area to which the restrictions apply.

(4) Nothing in this section authorizes the establishment of any restrictions that impede normal forest or range management operations. [1973 c.723 §89; 1987 c.798 §1]

Source: Section 498.152 — Agreements restricting parking or use of motor vehicles on certain lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.306 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.306
496.306 Compensation for damage done by bear and cougar not to be paid from State Wildlife Fund
Status: in_force

If the State Department of Fish and Wildlife is required to pay compensation for damage activities of bear and cougar to people, real property, livestock, or agricultural or forest products, the compensation, and any attorney fees, shall not be paid from the State Wildlife Fund, but shall be paid from such other moneys as shall be available therefor. [1995 c.136 §2]

Source: Section 496.306 — Compensation for damage done by bear and cougar not to be paid from State Wildlife Fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.525 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.525
496.525 Federal fish restoration and management aid
Status: in_force

(1) The State of Oregon assents to the provisions of the Act of Congress entitled, “An Act to provide that the United States shall aid the states in fish restoration and management projects, and for other purposes,” approved August 9, 1950, Public Law No. 681, 81st Congress (64 Stat. 430, 16 U.S.C.A. 777).

(2) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall perform such acts as may be necessary to the conduct and establishment of cooperative fish restoration projects, as defined in said Act of Congress, in compliance with said Act and rules and regulations promulgated thereunder by the Secretary of the Interior.

Source: Section 496.525 — Federal fish restoration and management aid; powers of commission with regard thereto , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.121 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.121
496.121 Authority of department to require fingerprints
Status: in_force

For the purpose of requesting a state or nationwide criminal records check under ORS 181A.195 (Criminal records check) , the State Department of Fish and Wildlife may require the fingerprints of a person who:

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Is employed or applying for employment by the department; or

(b) Provides services or seeks to provide services to the department as a contractor, vendor or volunteer; and

(2) Is, or will be, working or providing services in a position:

(a) In which the person has direct access to persons under 18 years of age, elderly persons or persons with disabilities;

(b) That has personnel or human resources functions as one of the position’s primary responsibilities;

(c) In which the person is providing information technology services and has control over, or access to, information technology systems that would allow the person to harm the information technology systems or the information contained in the systems;

(d) That involves the use, possession, issuance, transport, purchase, sale or forfeiture of firearms or munitions, access to firearms or munitions or the training of others in the use or handling of firearms;

(e) In which the person resides on property managed by the department;

(f) In which the person has access to information, the disclosure of which is prohibited by state or federal laws, rules or regulations or information that is defined as confidential under state or federal laws, rules or regulations;

(g) That has payroll functions or in which the person has responsibility for receiving, receipting or depositing money or negotiable instruments, for billing, collections or other financial transactions or for purchasing or selling property or has access to property held in trust or to private property in the temporary custody of the state;

(h) That has mailroom duties as a primary duty or job function;

(i) In which the person has responsibility for auditing the department;

(j) In which the person has access to Social Security numbers, dates of birth or criminal background information of employees or members of the public; or

(k) In which the person has access to tax or financial information about individuals or business entities. [2005 c.730 §60; 2009 c.208 §1]

Note: 496.121 (Authority of department to require fingerprints) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 496 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 496.121 — Authority of department to require fingerprints , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.257 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.257
496.257 Private Forest Accord Grant Program
Status: repealed

(1) As used in this section, “forestland” and “forest practice” have the meanings given those terms in ORS 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) .

(2) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall establish by rule a Private Forest Accord Grant Program for the purpose of funding projects that mitigate impacts of forest practices by:

(a) Removing structures that block the passage of aquatic organisms or repairing the structures to promote the passage of aquatic organisms.

(b) Placing logs or other wood-based material in streams to promote natural stream functions.

(c) Conserving, recruiting or reintroducing beavers to restore aquatic landscapes.

(d) Developing or sustaining healthy riparian corridors or wet meadow complexes to reduce burn intensity during fires and protect streams from excess sediment after a fire.

(e) Applying restoration treatments to densely stocked, single-species stands of trees to hasten the return of riparian function after tree harvesting.

(f) Applying restoration treatments to stands of trees to enhance historic species diversity that benefits riparian function.

(g) Supporting establishment of conservation easements on land other than forestland to protect riparian areas.

(h) Supporting acquisition of an existing water right for conversion to an in-stream water right, as described in ORS 537.348 (Purchase, lease or gift of water right for conversion to in-stream water right) , to improve in-stream flow conditions.

(i) Installing fencing or otherwise excluding grazing in riparian areas or around seeps or springs.

(j) Installing off-stream stockwater systems or hardened watering gaps to reduce the effects of grazing on aquatic organisms.

(k) Undertaking other measures that effectively conserve or restore habitat for aquatic organisms addressed by a habitat conservation plan that is consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022.

(3) In administering the program, the commission:

(a) Shall develop criteria for awarding a grant and a process for applying for a grant.

(b) Shall award grants to most effectively mitigate impacts of forest practices, consistent with advice from the Private Forest Accord Mitigation Advisory Committee.

(c) May award a grant to another agency.

(d) May require the recipient of a grant to report to the commission on the use of grant funds. [2022 c.33 §32]

Note: 496.257 (Private Forest Accord Grant Program) is repealed only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (note preceding 496.257 (Private Forest Accord Grant Program) ).

Note: 496.257 (Private Forest Accord Grant Program) and 496.259 (Private Forest Accord Mitigation Advisory Committee) were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 496 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 496.257 — Private Forest Accord Grant Program; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.445 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.445
496.445 Duties of commission
Status: in_force

In carrying out the salmon and trout enhancement program, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall:

(1) Provide appropriate State Department of Fish and Wildlife personnel to act as community advisors to cooperatively develop enhancement projects with citizen volunteers and to cooperatively evaluate enhancement projects with the citizens responsible for project implementation.

(2) Provide technical assistance to citizens responsible for implementation of enhancement projects.

(3) Coordinate the implementation of enhancement projects with the activities of department staff and other agencies.

(4) Provide educational and informational materials to promote public awareness and involvement in the salmon and trout enhancement program.

(5) Supervise the activities of citizens developing local brood stock for enhancement projects.

(6) Grant funds to citizens for the implementation of approved enhancement projects from such moneys as may be available to the commission therefor.

(7) Develop and implement a remote hatchbox program as described in ORS 496.458 (Remote hatchbox program) .

(8) Report annually to the Legislative Assembly on the progress of the salmon and trout enhancement program. [1981 c.317 §5; 1999 c.189 §2]

Source: Section 496.445 — Duties of commission , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.400 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.400
497.400 Prohibited conduct
Status: in_force

No person shall:

(1) Apply for, obtain or possess for personal use or for the use of any other person more licenses, tags or permits issued by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission than are authorized for personal use during the current year by the wildlife laws and rules promulgated pursuant thereto.

(2) Alter, borrow, loan or transfer to another person any license, tag or permit issued by the commission.

(3) In applying for a license, tag or permit issued by the commission, knowingly make any false statement of any information required by the application regarding the person in whose name the license, tag or permit is to be issued.

(4) Possess any license, tag or permit that has been altered, borrowed, loaned or transferred or for which any false statements were knowingly made in applying therefor.

(5) Apply for or obtain any license, tag or permit issued by the commission when civil damages due pursuant to ORS 496.705 (Damage suits for unlawful killing of wildlife) , moneys due the State Department of Fish and Wildlife from court-ordered restitutions for violations of the wildlife laws or moneys due the commission under ORS 496.992 (Penalties) (14) have not been paid. [1973 c.723 §70; 1981 c.108 §2; 1987 c.213 §3; 2018 c.14 §2; 2019 c.274 §3]

Source: Section 497.400 — Prohibited conduct , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.154 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.154
496.154 Limitation on authority to condemn certain farm use property
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall not commence any proceeding to exercise the power of eminent domain to acquire any real property, or interest therein, that was devoted to farm use on January 1, 1974, unless the commission first obtains approval therefor from the Joint Committee on Ways and Means, or from the Emergency Board if the Legislative Assembly is not then in session. Upon a change in the use of such land from farm use, the commission may acquire such property, and interests therein, by exercise of the power of eminent domain without first obtaining legislative approval therefor. As used in this section, “farm use” has the meaning for that term provided in ORS 215.203 (Zoning ordinances establishing exclusive farm use zones) .

(2) The commission shall not commence any proceeding as provided in subsection (1) of this section unless the commission has obtained approval of its intended use of such property from the local governmental agencies having land use planning authority over such lands. [1973 c.723 §13a; 1975 c.788 §1]

Source: Section 496.154 — Limitation on authority to condemn certain farm use property , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.073 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.073
498.073 Suit for violation related to list of prohibited species
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may institute suit for recovery of damages in the amount of $2,500 for a violation of a rule related to the list of prohibited species, as defined in ORS 498.072 (Updating list of prohibited species) .

(2) Each action in violation of a rule related to the list of prohibited species that pertains to an individual animal constitutes a separate violation for purposes of this section.

(3) The amount recoverable under this section shall be reduced by any amount paid to the commission under ORS 496.992 (Penalties) (15).

(4) In a suit brought under this section, the court shall award to the prevailing party, in addition to costs and disbursements, reasonable attorney fees.

(5) Civil damages awarded pursuant to this section are in addition to other penalties prescribed by the wildlife laws.

(6) Any circuit or justice court has jurisdiction to try a case for recovery of damages for violation of a rule related to the list of prohibited species as defined in ORS 498.072 (Updating list of prohibited species) . [2022 c.9 §4]

Source: Section 498.073 — Suit for violation related to list of prohibited species , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.139 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.139
497.139 Fish Passage Fund
Status: in_force

The Fish Passage Fund is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. Interest earned by the Fish Passage Fund shall be credited to the fund. Moneys in the fund are continuously appropriated to the State Department of Fish and Wildlife for purposes related to fish passage. [2009 c.832 §14]

Note: 497.139 (Fish Passage Fund) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 497 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 497.139 — Fish Passage Fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.258 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.258
497.258 Licensing authority
Status: in_force

The State Department of Fish and Wildlife is authorized to issue, upon application, to persons desiring to engage in the following occupations the following licenses and shall charge the applicable fees under the fee schedule in ORS 497.061 (License, tag and permit fee schedule) :

(1) Resident annual fur dealer license.

(2) Resident annual taxidermist license.

(3) Resident annual wildlife propagation license.

(4) Resident annual fish propagation license.

(5) Resident annual private hunting preserve license. [1973 c.723 §54; 1979 c.615 §3; 1985 c.565 §79; 1987 c.139 §4; 2009 c.832 §15; 2015 c.779 §29]

Source: Section 497.258 — Licensing authority , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.032 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.032
497.032 Duplicate licenses, tags and permits
Status: in_force

If one or more licenses, tags or permits issued by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission are lost, destroyed or stolen, the commission may require the holder of the licenses, tags or permits to attest to an agent of the commission that the licenses, tags or permits have been lost, destroyed or stolen and to submit any applicable fee determined by the commission. The commission may not charge a fee under this section that exceeds the lesser of the cost of the original document or the fee listed under the fee schedule in ORS 497.061 (License, tag and permit fee schedule) for filing a duplicate certificate. [1973 c.723 §47; 1981 c.445 §3; 1985 c.60 §6; 2009 c.832 §4; 2015 c.779 §11; 2019 c.102 §3]

Source: Section 497.032 — Duplicate licenses, tags and permits; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.850 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.850
496.850 Community outreach and education regarding recreational harvesting of shellfish
Status: in_force

(1) The State Department of Fish and Wildlife shall establish and administer a program for community outreach and education to provide residents of this state with guidance and instruction regarding opportunities for the recreational harvesting of shellfish. The department shall make information readily available to schools and members of the public through:

(a) Internet or other electronic means;

(b) Regulatory signs;

(c) Brochures, maps and other printed material;

(d) Workshops and clinics; and

(e) Special outreach events.

(2) In carrying out the program described in subsection (1) of this section, the department shall cooperate with Indian tribes and the Department of State Police in efforts to enhance the enforcement of commercial and recreational shellfish catch limits. [2019 c.654 §6]

Note: 496.850 (Community outreach and education regarding recreational harvesting of shellfish) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 496 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 496.850 — Community outreach and education regarding recreational harvesting of shellfish , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.301 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.301
498.301 Policy
Status: in_force

It is the policy of the State of Oregon to prevent appreciable damage to game fish populations or populations of nongame fish that are classified as sensitive species, threatened species or endangered species by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission as the result of the diversion of water for nonhydroelectric purposes from any body of water in this state. [1993 c.478 §2]

Source: Section 498.301 — Policy , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.072 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.072
498.072 Updating list of prohibited species
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section, “prohibited species” means a species that may not be imported, possessed, sold, purchased, exchanged or transported in this state, as established by rule by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission.

(2) The commission shall review and update the list of prohibited species as the commission deems necessary to protect against significant risks to public health from zoonotic disease.

(3) If the Oregon Health Authority identifies a wildlife species as posing a significant risk to public health from zoonotic disease:

(a) The authority shall notify the commission of the risk as soon as practicable.

(b) After the notification, the commission shall review and update relevant rules related to wildlife as necessary to protect the public from the risk, including by adding the species to the list of prohibited species.

(4) In making decisions under this section, the commission:

(a) Shall use the best available science.

(b) Shall consult with the authority and the State Department of Agriculture.

(c) May consult with bona fide scientific or educational institutions, as defined in ORS 498.022 (Purchase, sale, exchange or possession of wildlife or wildlife parts or products) , and any other experts with relevant expertise.

(5) In addition to actions described in this section, the commission may take any lawful action the commission deems necessary to protect the public from a potential for transmission of zoonotic disease.

(6) Notwithstanding subsection (5) of this section, this section does not authorize commission action related to a species utilized in farm use, as defined in ORS 308A.056 (Definition of “farm use.”) . [2022 c.9 §3]

Source: Section 498.072 — Updating list of prohibited species; risk from zoonotic disease , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.650 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.650
496.650 Issuance of citation to violator
Status: in_force

Should any person making an arrest mentioned in ORS 496.645 (Arrest without warrant of violators) for the violation of the wildlife laws desire not to forthwith take the person arrested before the justice of the peace or judge having jurisdiction or desire not to immediately take the arrested person into custody, the person making the arrest may issue a citation to the person arrested. [Amended by 1973 c.723 §24]

Source: Section 496.650 — Issuance of citation to violator , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.400 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.400
498.400 Definitions for ORS 498.400 to 498.464
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 498.400 (Definitions for ORS 498.400 to 498.464) to 498.464 (Commission authority to restrain violations of outdoor club laws) , unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Advertise” means to make public distribution by any means of communication any material relating to the sale of membership in an outdoor club.

(2) “Outdoor club” means a business entity organized for profit that:

(a) Conducts, or under whose authority is conducted, hunting or angling or both hunting and angling activities exclusively for its members and their guests; and

(b) Engages in promotional plan activities for the sale of membership in such club.

(3) “Promotional plan” includes, but is not limited to advertising. [1973 c.749 §2]

Source: Section 498.400 — Definitions for ORS 498.400 to 498.464 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.026 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.026
498.026 Transaction in threatened or endangered wildlife species prohibited
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, no person shall take, import, export, transport, purchase or sell, or attempt to take, import, export, transport, purchase or sell, any threatened species or endangered species, or the skin, hides or other parts thereof, or any article made in whole or in part from the skin, hide or other parts of any threatened species or endangered species.

(2) Nothing in subsection (1) of this section is intended to prevent the taking, importation, transportation or sale of any threatened species or endangered species in such manner as may be authorized in ORS 496.172 (Commission management authority for threatened or endangered species) , 497.218 (Fur dealer license) to 497.238 (Taxidermy license) , 497.298 (Scientific taking permit) or 497.308 (Wildlife holding and habitat removal permits) .

(3) Nothing in this section applies to the resale of used skins, hides or other parts of a threatened species or endangered species or an article made in whole or part thereof if the seller acquired the item sold prior to October 5, 1973. [1973 c.425 §2; 1977 c.242 §1; 1987 c.686 §6]

Source: Section 498.026 — Transaction in threatened or endangered wildlife species prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.002 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.002
497.002 “Resident” and “nonresident” defined
Status: in_force

Except as provided in ORS 497.006 (Certain persons as residents for licensing purposes) , as used in this chapter:

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) “Resident” means a person who has physically resided in this state for not less than six consecutive months immediately prior to the date of making application for a license, tag or permit issued by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission.

(b) “Resident” does not include a person:

(A) Who merely owns real property or pays property taxes in this state; or

(B) Who claims resident privileges in another state or country for any purpose.

(2) “Nonresident” means any person other than a resident. [1973 c.723 §41; 2021 c.128 §1]

Source: Section 497.002 — “Resident” and “nonresident” defined , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.270 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.270
496.270 Immunity from liability for damages resulting from habitat or water quality improvement project
Status: in_force

(1) The Legislative Assembly declares that it is the policy of the State of Oregon to encourage operators, timber owners and landowners to voluntarily improve fish and wildlife habitat. In order to carry out this policy, the Legislative Assembly encourages cooperation among operators, timber owners and landowners and other volunteers.

(2) Consistent with the limitations of ORS 105.672 (Definitions for ORS 105.672 to 105.696) to 105.696 (Duty of care or liability not created) , a landowner is not liable in contract or tort for any personal injury, death or property damage that arises out of the use of the land by:

(a) A volunteer conducting a fish and wildlife habitat improvement project; or

(b) A participant of a state-funded or federally funded watershed or stream restoration or enhancement program.

(3) An operator, timber owner or landowner shall not be held liable for any damages resulting from:

(a) A fish and wildlife habitat improvement project done in cooperation and consultation with the State Department of Fish and Wildlife or the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board, or conducted as part of a forest management practice in accordance with ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) and 527.992 (Civil penalties) ; or

(b) Leaving large woody debris within the waters of this state to protect, retain and recruit large woody debris for the purposes of fish habitat and water quality improvement.

(4) The limitations to liability provided by subsections (2) and (3) of this section do not apply if the damages, injury or death was caused by willful, wanton or intentional conduct on the part of the operator, timber owner or landowner or by the gross negligence of the operator, timber owner or landowner. As used in this subsection “gross negligence” means negligence which is materially greater than the mere absence of reasonable care under the circumstances, and which is characterized by indifference to or reckless disregard of the rights of others.

(5) The limitation on liability provided by subsection (3) of this section does not apply to claims for death or personal injuries. [1993 c.701 §2; 1997 c.207 §1; 1999 c.863 §3]

Note: 496.270 (Immunity from liability for damages resulting from habitat or water quality improvement project) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 496 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 496.270 — Immunity from liability for damages resulting from habitat or water quality improvement project; exceptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.120 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.120
498.120 Hunting on another’s cultivated or enclosed land
Status: in_force

(1) No person shall hunt upon the cultivated or enclosed land of another without first obtaining permission from the owner or lawful occupant thereof, or the agent of such owner or occupant. No prosecution shall be commenced under this section except upon written complaint filed with a magistrate. The complaint shall be verified by the oath of the owner or lawful occupant of the cultivated or enclosed land, or the agent of such owner or occupant.

(2) For the purpose of subsection (1) of this section, the boundaries of “enclosed” land may be indicated by wire, ditch, hedge, fence, water or by any visible or distinctive lines that indicate a separation from the surrounding or contiguous territory, and includes the established and posted boundaries of Indian reservations established by treaties of the United States and the various Indian tribes. [Amended by 1959 c.318 §1; 1971 c.580 §1; 1973 c.723 §83]

Source: Section 498.120 — Hunting on another’s cultivated or enclosed land , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.004 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.004
496.004 Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in the wildlife laws, unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Angle” means to take or attempt to take a fish for personal use by means involving hook and line.

(2) “Commission” means the State Fish and Wildlife Commission created by ORS 496.090 (State Fish and Wildlife Commission) .

(3) “Compatible” means capable of existing in harmony so as to minimize conflict.

(4) “Department” means the State Department of Fish and Wildlife created by ORS 496.080 (State Department of Fish and Wildlife) .

(5) “Director” means the State Fish and Wildlife Director appointed pursuant to ORS 496.112 (State Fish and Wildlife Director) .

(6) “Endangered species” means:

(a) Any native wildlife species determined by the commission to be in danger of extinction throughout any significant portion of its range within this state.

(b) Any native wildlife species listed as an endangered species pursuant to the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-205, 16 U.S.C. 1531), as amended.

(7) “Fund” means the State Wildlife Fund created by ORS 496.300 (State Wildlife Fund) .

(8) “Fur-bearing mammal” means beaver, bobcat, fisher, marten, mink, muskrat, otter, raccoon, red fox and gray fox.

(9) “Game mammal” means antelope, black bear, cougar, deer, elk, moose, mountain goat, mountain sheep, silver gray squirrel and gray wolf as a special status mammal defined by commission rule.

(10) “Hunt” means to take or attempt to take any wildlife by means involving the use of a weapon or with the assistance of any mammal or bird.

(11) “Manage” means to protect, preserve, propagate, promote, utilize and control wildlife.

(12) “Optimum level” means wildlife population levels that provide self-sustaining species as well as taking, nonconsumptive and recreational opportunities.

(13) “Person with a disability” means a person who complies with the requirement of ORS 496.018 (Person with disability under wildlife laws) .

(14) “Shellfish” has the meaning given that term in ORS 506.011 (Types of marine life defined) .

(15) “Species” means any species or subspecies of wildlife.

(16) “Take” means to kill or obtain possession or control of any wildlife.

(17) “Threatened species” means:

(a) Any native wildlife species the commission determines is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout any significant portion of its range within this state.

(b) Any native wildlife species listed as a threatened species pursuant to the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-205, 16 U.S.C. 1531), as amended.

(18) “Trap” means to take or attempt to take any wildlife by means involving the use of a trap, net, snare or other device used for the purpose of capture.

(19) “Wildlife” means fish, shellfish, amphibians and reptiles, feral swine as defined by State Department of Agriculture rule, wild birds as defined by commission rule and other wild mammals as defined by commission rule. [1973 c.723 §3; 1975 c.253 §5; 1977 c.136 §1; 1979 c.399 §1; 1979 c.615 §1a; 1985 c.60 §7; 1987 c.686 §1; 1991 c.67 §148; 1993 c.659 §1; 1999 c.25 §3; 2001 c.125 §1; 2003 c.656 §1; 2007 c.523 §1; 2009 c.778 §1]

Source: Section 496.004 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.201 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.201
496.201 Department to furnish salmon for ceremonies
Status: in_force

(1) The State of Oregon shall, through the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, provide surplus salmon:

(a) To the Confederated Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indian tribes for their historical, traditional and cultural salmon ceremonies that take place each year.

(b) To the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Indians for their historical, traditional and cultural salmon ceremonies that take place each year.

(c) To the Coquille Tribe for their historical, traditional and cultural salmon ceremonies that take place each year.

(d) To the Burns Paiute Tribe for their historical, traditional and cultural salmon ceremonies that take place each year.

(2) The salmon provided by the state shall meet the expressed needs of the Confederated Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw tribes, up to 1,000 pounds total, the Coquille Tribe, up to 1,000 pounds total, the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Indians, up to 1,000 pounds total, and the Burns Paiute Tribe, up to 500 pounds total.

(3) The salmon provided by the state may be either surplus whole fish or carcasses.

(4) Salmon may be taken from hatcheries under either the complete or joint control of the state. [1981 c.575 §2; 1987 c.99 §1; 1993 c.460 §1; 1995 c.137 §1; 2001 c.611 §2; 2001 c.651 §1]

Source: Section 496.201 — Department to furnish salmon for ceremonies; amount; source , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.289 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.289
496.289 Duties of board
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section:

(a) “Enhancement” includes, but is not limited to, the following activities:

(A) Angler access.

(B) New fishways and screens.

(C) Habitat.

(D) New hatchery equipment and technology.

(E) Public education.

(F) Aquatic inventories.

(b) “Restoration” includes, but is not limited to, the following activities:

(A) Modification of existing fishways and existing screens.

(B) Hatchery restoration.

(C) Liberation equipment.

(2) The Restoration and Enhancement Board shall meet at least four times each biennium.

(3) The board shall adopt recommendations regarding fish restoration and enhancement programs and present the recommendations to the State Fish and Wildlife Commission.

(4) The commission shall review fish restoration and enhancement programs and may approve or disapprove program recommendations made by the board. Funds may be expended from the subaccount referred to in ORS 496.283 (Use of certain moneys) for projects that have been approved by the commission.

(5) The State Department of Fish and Wildlife and the board jointly shall submit to each odd-numbered year regular session of the Legislative Assembly a report on expenditure of funds for the fish restoration and enhancement program and on the status of various projects.

(6) In recommending fish restoration and enhancement programs, the board shall:

(a) Recommend a mix of projects that provide a balance between restoration and enhancement benefits.

(b) Recommend projects that are to be implemented by the salmon and trout enhancement program and nonprofit organizations engaged in approved restoration and enhancement activities.

(c) Encourage projects that result in obtaining matching funds from other sources.

(7) All moneys made available for the fish restoration and enhancement program from funds received under ORS 497.126 (Use of certain moneys from angling licenses) , 508.288 (Commercial fishing permit surcharges) and 508.506 (Additional payments on certain fish species) and from gifts and grants made to carry out the fish restoration and enhancement program may be expended only if recommended by the board and approved by the commission. Such amounts may be expended:

(a) On programs benefiting the commercial fishing industry in the same proportion as revenues received from surcharges under ORS 508.288 (Commercial fishing permit surcharges) and 508.506 (Additional payments on certain fish species) bear to the total amount of surcharge revenues.

(b) On programs benefiting recreational angling in the same proportion as revenues received from the dedication under ORS 497.126 (Use of certain moneys from angling licenses) bear to the total amount of dedicated revenues.

(8) The board may accept, from whatever source, gifts or grants for the purposes of fish restoration and enhancement. All moneys so accepted shall be deposited in the subaccount referred to in ORS 496.283 (Use of certain moneys) . Unless otherwise required by the terms of a gift or grant, gifts or grants shall be expended as provided in subsection (7) of this section. [1989 c.512 §12; 1997 c.8 §12; 2011 c.545 §60; 2015 c.779 §43; 2019 c.458 §3]

Source: Section 496.289 — Duties of board; report to legislature; recommendations for programs , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 497.079 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 497 / Section 497.079
497.079 Open fishing and shellfish taking days
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding ORS 497.075 (General license, tag and permit requirements) , 497.121 (Angling and shellfish licenses and tags) and 497.132 (Combined licenses for residents) , the State Fish and Wildlife Commission may issue, up to four times each year, an order that authorizes individuals to angle for fish or take shellfish in the waters of this state without the licenses or tags, or without the licenses and tags otherwise required by law, on any two consecutive days. [1989 c.344 §2; 1995 c.177 §1; 2003 c.656 §7; 2015 c.764 §1]

Source: Section 497.079 — Open fishing and shellfish taking days , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors497.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.286 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.286
498.286 Prize limitation
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section and ORS 498.279 (Black bass and walleye angling contests) , no person shall conduct, sponsor or participate in any competition or contest in which any prize of a retail value of more than $1,000 is offered for the amount, quality, size, weight or other physical characteristic of game fish taken.

(2) When a prize is offered that exceeds $1,000 for the amount, quality, size, weight or other physical characteristic of a game fish taken, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission, by rule, may limit the number of contests and participants, determine the location of contests and prescribe other terms and conditions regarding the conduct of contests. [1989 c.373 §4; 1997 c.12 §1; 2001 c.186 §2]

SCREENING AND BY-PASS DEVICES FOR WATER DIVERSIONS OR OBSTRUCTIONS

Source: Section 498.286 — Prize limitation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.153 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.153
498.153 Parking vehicle in violation of restrictions
Status: in_force

A person who operates or parks a motor-propelled vehicle in violation of restrictions established and posted under ORS 498.152 (Agreements restricting parking or use of motor vehicles on certain lands) , and any owner of the vehicle who authorizes the operation or parking of the vehicle, commits a Class A violation. [1987 c.798 §3; 1999 c.1051 §194; 2011 c.597 §65]

Source: Section 498.153 — Parking vehicle in violation of restrictions; vehicle owner subject to penalty , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 496.700 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 496 / Section 496.700
496.700 Investigating violations
Status: in_force

(1) Where the State Fish and Wildlife Commission has been furnished information of the violation of any of the wildlife laws, the commission, or one especially authorized by it, may proceed to the place where the offense is said to have been committed and summon and examine under oath witnesses to ascertain the facts and to avoid useless and frivolous indictments or prosecutions.

(2) Witnesses shall be paid by the commission from the State Wildlife Fund at the rate of $5 per day and mileage from their places of residence at the rate of eight cents per mile.

(3) No witness so summoned shall refuse to attend or testify under this section. [Amended by 1971 c.658 §22; 1973 c.723 §31]

Source: Section 496.700 — Investigating violations; summoning witnesses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors496.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 498.418 — OR Code / Title 41 / Chapter 498 / Section 498.418
498.418 License application
Status: in_force

(1) A person who is required to obtain a license from the State Fish and Wildlife Commission to operate an outdoor club shall submit to the commission an application for such license, on a form approved by the commission, that contains such information as the commission may require regarding the ownership, financial condition and operation of the club and promotional plans for sale of membership therein.

(2) The application shall be accompanied by the applicable fee under the fee schedule in ORS 497.061 (License, tag and permit fee schedule) . [1973 c.749 §5; 2015 c.779 §31]

Source: Section 498.418 — License application; form; fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors498.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).