ORS § 478.004 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.004
478.004 New district succeeds to and replaces abolished district
Status: in_force

Each rural fire protection district created by ORS 478.002 (Status of districts existing in 1957) shall in all respects succeed to and replace the territorially coterminous rural fire protection district abolished by ORS 478.002 (Status of districts existing in 1957) . Without limiting the foregoing:

(1) A successor district is:

(a) The owner of the property of the succeeded district, including real property and funds on deposit with the county treasurer or banks.

(b) Successor party to the contracts of the succeeded district.

(c) Successor party to the court proceedings of the succeeded district.

(d) Successor obligor on the indebtedness of the succeeded district.

(2) The rules, regulations, fire protection codes and identification numbers of the succeeded district are the rules, regulations, fire protection codes and identification numbers of the successor district, until changed by appropriate action under this chapter.

(3) The directors and officers of the succeeded district are the directors and officers of the successor district. Each director and officer shall hold office for a term equal to the term of the office of the director or officer in the succeeded district. [1957 s.s. c.10 §2]

Source: Section 478.004 — New district succeeds to and replaces abolished district , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.960 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.960
478.960 Burning of certain materials permitted only with permission of fire chief
Status: in_force

(1) No one, within the boundaries of a district, shall cause or permit to be initiated or maintained on one’s own property, or cause to be initiated or maintained on the property of another, any open burning of commercial waste, demolition material, domestic waste, industrial waste, land clearing debris or field burning without first securing permission from the fire chief of the district and complying with the direction of the fire chief. A deputy of a fire chief has the power to perform any act or duty of the fire chief under this section.

(2) The fire chief shall prescribe conditions upon which permission is granted and which are necessary to be observed in setting the fire and preventing it from spreading and endangering life or property or endangering the air resources of this state. The Environmental Quality Commission shall notify the State Fire Marshal of the type of and time for burning to be allowed on each day under schedules adopted pursuant to ORS 468A.570 (Classification of atmospheric conditions) and ORS 468A.595 (Commission rules to regulate burning pursuant to ORS 468A.550 to 468A.620) . The State Fire Marshal shall cause all fire chiefs and their deputies in the affected area to be notified of the type and time for burning to be allowed on each day with updating messages each day as required. A fire chief or deputy shall grant permission only in accordance with the schedule of the Environmental Quality Commission but may reduce hours to be allowed for burning if necessary to prevent danger to life or property from fire. The State Fire Marshal may refuse, revoke or postpone permission when necessary in the judgment of the State Fire Marshal to prevent danger to life or property from fire, notwithstanding any determination by the fire chief.

(3) Nothing in this section relieves a person starting a fire from responsibility for providing adequate protection to prevent injury or damage to the person or property of another. If such burning results in the escape of fire and injury or damage to the person or property of another, such escape and damage or injury constitutes prima facie evidence that the burning was not safe.

(4) Within a district, no person shall, during the fire season declared under ORS 477.505 (State Forester may declare fire season in district) , operate any equipment in forest harvesting or agricultural operations powered by an internal combustion engine on or within one-eighth of one mile of forestland unless each piece of equipment is provided with a fire extinguisher of sufficient size and capacity and with such other tools and fire-fighting equipment as may be reasonably required by the fire chief of the district. The provisions of this subsection do not apply to machinery regulated by ORS chapter 477.

(5) No person shall dispose of any building or building wreckage within a district by fire without having first secured permission therefor from the fire chief. No person shall refuse to comply with any reasonable requirements of the fire chief as to the safeguarding of such fire from spreading.

(6) This section is not intended to limit the authority of a district to adopt a fire prevention code as provided in ORS 478.910 (Adoption of fire prevention code) to 478.940 (Filing and posting of fire prevention code) or to issue permits when the burning is done by mechanical burners fired by liquefied petroleum gas.

(7) The fire chief shall maintain records of all permits and the conditions thereof, if any, that are issued for field burning under this section and shall submit at such times, as the Environmental Quality Commission shall require such records or summaries thereof to the commission. The Environmental Quality Commission shall provide forms for the reports required under this subsection.

(8) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section:

(a) A permit is required for field burning authorized pursuant to ORS 468A.550 (Definitions for ORS 468A.550 to 468A.620 and 468A.992) to 468A.620 (Experimental field sanitization) and 468A.992 (Civil penalties for open field burning violations) .

(b) For a permit for the propane flaming of mint stubble, the fire chief may only prescribe conditions necessary to prevent the spread of fire or to prevent endangering life or property and may refuse, revoke or postpone permission to conduct the propane flaming only when necessary to prevent danger to life or property from fire. [1955 c.469 §§1,2; 1959 c.363 §16; 1967 c.420 §1; 1967 c.438 §1; 1969 c.613 §3; 1969 c.667 §57; 1971 c.563 §9; 1973 c.832 §7b; 1975 c.635 §4; 1979 c.321 §1; 1989 c.615 §2; 1991 c.920 §22; 1997 c.274 §40; 1997 c.473 §6; 2009 c.790 §2]

Source: Section 478.960 — Burning of certain materials permitted only with permission of fire chief; damage or injury; burning schedules and restrictions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.260 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.260
476.260 District attorney assisting investigation of fires
Status: in_force

The district attorney of any county, upon request of the state, county or a municipal police agency, shall assist such officers in the investigation of any fire which in their opinion is of incendiary origin. [Amended by 1967 c.417 §10]

Source: Section 476.260 — District attorney assisting investigation of fires , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.290 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.290
480.290 Requirements for person driving vehicle transporting explosives
Status: in_force

(1) Each person who drives or has charge of a vehicle transporting explosives must comply with the requirements of the United States Department of Transportation.

(2) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, the driver of a vehicle transporting any quantity of explosives must attend the vehicle at all times.

(3) The driver of a vehicle transporting explosives may leave the vehicle unattended only at a designated location that has been approved for such parking by the State Fire Marshal or by the local government agency that has responsibility for fire protection.

(4) A vehicle which contains explosives must not be parked within 300 feet of any bridge, tunnel, dwelling, building or place where people work, congregate or assemble except for brief periods when the necessities of operation require the vehicle to be parked and make it impracticable to park the vehicle in any other place.

(5) As used in this section, a vehicle is “attended” when the person in charge of the vehicle is on the vehicle, awake and not in a sleeper berth, or is within 100 feet of the vehicle and has it within unobstructed field of view.

(6) All vehicles containing explosives shall display appropriate placards conforming to the requirements of the United States Department of Transportation. [1985 c.165 §2; 1999 c.980 §12; 2009 c.164 §4]

Source: Section 480.290 — Requirements for person driving vehicle transporting explosives , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.748 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.748
477.748 Small forestland grant program
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section, “small forestland owner” means an individual, group, federally recognized Indian tribe in Oregon or association that owns:

(a) Up to 160 acres of nonindustrial private forestland west of the crest of the Cascade Mountains; or

(b) Up to 640 acres of nonindustrial private forestland east of the crest of the Cascade Mountains.

(2) The State Forestry Department shall establish a small forestland grant program for the purpose of providing grants, on a competitive basis, to support small forestland owners in reducing wildfire risk through the restoration of landscape resiliency and the reduction of hazardous fuels on the owners’ property.

(3) In consultation with partners and stakeholders, the department shall set criteria for assessing grant applications and awarding grants. The criteria may include, but need not be limited to:

(a) Prioritization of projects on forestland in the high wildfire hazard zone described in ORS 477.490 (Statewide wildfire hazard map) .

(b) Owner commitment to maintaining fuel reduction treatments.

(c) Owner possession of a forest management plan.

(d) Project proximity to current or past fuel mitigation efforts, supported by any owner or funding source, that would contribute to cross-boundary, landscape-scale forest resiliency.

(e) Whether the project addresses additional resource concerns, such as insect and disease management.

(f) Whether critical facilities and infrastructure may receive enhanced protection due to project outcomes. [2021 c.592 §24; 2023 c.611 §12]

Note: 477.748 (Small forestland grant program) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 477 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 477.748 — Small forestland grant program , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.510 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.510
476.510 Short title
Status: in_force

ORS 476.510 (Short title) to 476.610 (Payment of claims) shall be known as the Emergency Conflagration Act.

Source: Section 476.510 — Short title , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.560 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.560
477.560 Oregon Forest Smoke Management Account
Status: in_force

(1) The Oregon Forest Smoke Management Account is established separate and distinct from the General Fund in the State Treasury.

(2) The following moneys shall be credited to the Oregon Forest Smoke Management Account:

(a) Nonrefundable registration fees received by the State Forestry Department for Class 1 forestland under ORS 526.324 (Classification of forestland by committee) to be burned west of the summit of the Cascade Mountains, not including Hood River County.

(b) Fees received by the State Forester for Class 1 forestland under ORS 526.324 (Classification of forestland by committee) treated by a prescription burn method under ORS 477.515 (Permits required for fires on forestlands) (1) west of the summit of the Cascade Mountains, not including Hood River County.

(c) Fees for federal forestland included within the regulated area under ORS 477.013 (Smoke management plan) to be treated by any prescription burn method subject to the provisions of the State of Oregon Clean Air Act Implementation Plan and the federal Clean Air Act received by the State Forester.

(3) The moneys in the Oregon Forest Smoke Management Account are appropriated continuously for and shall be used by the State Forester exclusively for the administration of the smoke management program approved under ORS 477.013 (Smoke management plan) and 477.554 (Program establishment) . [1989 c.920 §7; 1997 c.274 §52; 2007 c.213 §4]

Source: Section 477.560 — Oregon Forest Smoke Management Account; moneys paid to account; use , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.670 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.670
479.670 Maintenance of action or suit by unlicensed person prohibited
Status: in_force

Except to appeal from an act or determination of the Electrical and Elevator Board, no person carrying on, conducting or transacting business regulated by ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) and 479.995 (Civil penalty for violation of ORS 479.510 to 479.945) is entitled to maintain a suit or action in the courts of this state involving such business or work in connection therewith, without alleging and proving that the person was licensed to perform such work or transact such business. [1959 c.406 §15; 1971 c.753 §21; 1981 c.815 §21; 1993 c.744 §124]

Source: Section 479.670 — Maintenance of action or suit by unlicensed person prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.530 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.530
479.530 Definitions for ORS 479.510 to 479.945 and 479.995
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) and 479.995 (Civil penalty for violation of ORS 479.510 to 479.945) , unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Approved testing laboratory” means a testing laboratory that meets criteria for electrical product evaluation established by the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services with the approval of the Electrical and Elevator Board under ORS 479.730 (Adoption of rules by Director of Department of Consumer and Business Services) .

(2) “Board” means the Electrical and Elevator Board established under ORS 455.138 (Electrical and Elevator Board) .

(3) “Certified electrical product” means an electrical product that is certified under ORS 479.760 (Certification of electrical products) and that is not decertified.

(4) “Competent inspection service” means an electrical inspection service of a city or county administered under ORS 455.148 (Comprehensive municipal building inspection programs) or 455.150 (Selective municipal building inspection programs) that employs electrical inspectors who are certified to meet standards under ORS 479.810 (Administration and enforcement) .

(5) “Commercial electrical air conditioning equipment” means heating, cooling, refrigeration, dehumidifying, humidifying and filtering equipment used for climatizing or moving of air if used in commerce, industry or government and if installed in a place not accessible to the general public other than the switches regulating the operation of the equipment.

(6) “Demarcation point” means the place of interconnection between the communications cabling, terminal equipment or protective apparatus of the telecommunications service provider and the customer’s premises.

(7) “Department” means the Department of Consumer and Business Services.

(8) “Director” means the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services.

(9) “Dwelling unit” means one or more rooms for the use of one or more persons as a housekeeping unit with space for eating, living and sleeping and permanent provisions for cooking and sanitation.

(10) “Electrical installations” means the construction or installation of electrical wiring and the permanent attachment or installation of electrical products in or on any structure that is not itself an electrical product. “Electrical installation” also means the maintenance or repair of installed electrical wiring and permanently attached electrical products. “Electrical installation” does not include an oil module.

(11) “Electrical product” means any electrical equipment, material, device or apparatus that, except as provided in ORS 479.540 (Exemptions) , requires a license or permit to install and either conveys or is operated by electrical current.

(12) “Equipment” means any material, fittings, devices, appliances, fixtures, apparatus or the like that are used as part of or in connection with an electrical installation.

(13) “Field evaluation firm” means an independent organization that provides:

(a) Evaluations or testing, or both; and

(b) Documentation regarding compliance with electrical product safety standards and with the electrical installation safety code.

(14) “Industrial electrical equipment” means electrical products used in industry or government that utilize electric energy for mechanical, chemical, heating, lighting or similar purposes, that are designed to service or produce a product and that are used directly in the production of the service or product.

(15) “Installation label” means an adhesive tag issued by governmental agencies that administer the Electrical Safety Law to licensed electrical contractors for application to those minor electrical installations for which the board by rule determines to be appropriate for random inspections.

(16) “License” means a permit issued by the department under ORS 479.630 (Requirements for obtaining licenses) authorizing the person whose name appears as licensee thereon to act as an electrical contractor, supervising electrician, journeyman electrician, electrical apprentice or limited elevator journeyman as indicated thereon.

(17) “Minimum safety standards” means safety standards prescribed by concurrence of the board and the director under ORS 479.730 (Adoption of rules by Director of Department of Consumer and Business Services) .

(18) “Multifamily dwelling” means a building containing more than one dwelling unit.

(19) “Oil module” means a prefabricated structure manufactured to the specifications of the purchaser and used outside this state in the exploration for or processing or extraction of petroleum products.

(20) “Permit” means an official document or card issued by the enforcing agency to authorize performance of a specified electrical installation.

(21) “Single family dwelling” means a building consisting solely of one dwelling unit.

(22) “Telecommunications service provider” means a telecommunications carrier as defined in ORS 133.721 (Definitions for ORS 41.910 and 133.721 to 133.739) or a telecommunications utility or competitive telecommunications provider, both as defined in ORS 759.005 (Definitions) .

(23) “Uncertified product” means any electrical product that is not an electrical product certified under ORS 479.760 (Certification of electrical products) . [1959 c.406 §3; 1971 c.753 §55; 1973 c.834 §35; 1981 c.815 §4; 1983 c.733 §1; 1985 c.826 §3; 1987 c.414 §34; 1987 c.575 §4; 1987 c.874 §2; 1993 c.744 §118; 1995 c.706 §1; 1999 c.59 §159; 1999 c.1031 §1; 2001 c.573 §16; 2003 c.222 §1; 2003 c.299 §2; 2005 c.435 §2; 2007 c.271 §3; 2011 c.9 §67]

Source: Section 479.530 — Definitions for ORS 479.510 to 479.945 and 479.995 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.841 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.841
476.841 Prohibition against sale or distribution of novelty lighters
Status: in_force

(1) A person may not sell, offer for sale or distribute a novelty lighter in this state. A person may not manufacture a novelty lighter in this state, or import a novelty lighter into this state, for the purpose of selling or distributing the novelty lighter within this state. A person may not possess a novelty lighter in inventory for the purpose of selling or distributing the novelty lighter within this state.

(2) The State Fire Marshal may impose a civil penalty against a person who violates subsection (1) of this section. The civil penalty may not exceed:

(a) $10,000 if the person is a manufacturer or importer of lighters.

(b) $1,000 if the person is a wholesaler of lighters or distributes lighters by means other than distribution directly to consumers.

(c) $500 if the person is:

(A) A retail seller of lighters; or

(B) A person distributing lighters, if the person is other than a manufacturer, importer or wholesaler.

(3) If a person continues to violate this section after the State Fire Marshal gives the person written notice of the violation, each day that the violation continues is a separate offense subject to a civil penalty.

(4) The State Fire Marshal shall impose civil penalties under this section as provided in ORS 183.745 (Civil penalty procedures) . For purposes of ORS 183.417 (Procedure in contested case hearing) , it is prima facie evidence that a lighter is a novelty lighter if the lighter is listed by the State Fire Marshal as described in ORS 476.836 (Identification of novelty lighters) as a novelty lighter, or is of a class or type of lighter listed by the State Fire Marshal as novelty lighters. However, listing by the State Fire Marshal is not a prerequisite for finding that a lighter is a novelty lighter.

(5) All moneys collected from civil penalties under this section shall be deposited to the credit of the State Fire Marshal Fund. [2009 c.6 §3]

Note: See note under 476.831 (Definitions for ORS 476.831 to 476.856) .

Source: Section 476.841 — Prohibition against sale or distribution of novelty lighters; civil penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.020 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.020
480.020 Prohibition against sale of bad powder
Status: in_force

Whenever any blasting powder shows a state of disintegration or decomposition sufficient so that it remains in a soft condition in a temperature of 32 degrees Fahrenheit, or is in a state of crystallization, which is revealed by some portions being in a hard condition and surrounded by other portions in a soft condition, it shall be deemed bad and dangerous powder, and its sale and use is prohibited.

Source: Section 480.020 — Prohibition against sale of bad powder , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.205 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.205
480.205 Application
Status: in_force

ORS 480.200 (Definitions for ORS 480.200 to 480.290) to 480.290 (Requirements for person driving vehicle transporting explosives) and 480.990 (Penalties) (6) do not apply to:

(1) The possession of an explosive by a member of the Armed Forces of the United States while on active duty and engaged in the performance of official duties or by a member of a regularly organized public law enforcement agency, public fire department or fire protection agency while engaged in the performance of official duties.

(2) The possession of an explosive in the course of transportation by way of railroad, water, highway or air while under the jurisdiction of, or in conformity with, regulations adopted by the United States Department of Transportation. [1971 c.518 §2; 1987 c.158 §108; 1999 c.980 §2]

Source: Section 480.205 — Application , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.275 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.275
480.275 Hearings on denial, suspension or revocation of certificate
Status: in_force

An applicant who has been denied a certificate of possession or a certificate of registration or a person whose certificate of possession or certificate of registration has been suspended or revoked is entitled to a hearing before the issuing authority under ORS chapter 183. [1971 c.518 §20; 1999 c.980 §10]

Source: Section 480.275 — Hearings on denial, suspension or revocation of certificate , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.515 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.515
480.515 Definitions for ORS 480.510 to 480.670
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 480.510 (Short title) to 480.670 (Civil penalty for Boiler and Pressure Vessel Law violations) , unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Alteration” means a change or addition to equipment, other than the ordinary repair or replacement of an existing part of the equipment.

(2) “Board” means the Board of Boiler Rules created under ORS 480.535 (Board of Boiler Rules) .

(3) “Boiler” or “boilers” means:

(a) A closed vessel or vessels intended for the heating or vaporizing of liquids to be used externally to such vessel or vessels by the application of heat from combustible fuels, electricity or nuclear energy;

(b) Related appurtenances including but not limited to pressure piping directly connected and related to the safe operation of a boiler; and

(c) Pressure piping consisting of boiler or nonboiler external piping connected to a boiler, but not potable water nonboiler external piping.

(4) “Boiler external piping” has the meaning given the term in the 1986 Pressure Piping Code B 31.1, adopted by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

(5) “Certificate of competency” means a certificate issued under the provisions of ORS 480.565 (Chief and deputy inspectors) (3).

(6) “Department” means the Department of Consumer and Business Services.

(7) “Director” means the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services.

(8) “Installation permit” means a permit issued by the department for the installation, alteration or repair of a boiler or pressure vessel.

(9) “Minimum safety standards” means the rules, regulations, formulae, definitions and interpretations for the safe construction, installation, operation and repair of boilers and pressure vessels either adopted by ORS 480.510 (Short title) to 480.670 (Civil penalty for Boiler and Pressure Vessel Law violations) or adopted by the board, under ORS 480.510 (Short title) to 480.670 (Civil penalty for Boiler and Pressure Vessel Law violations) .

(10) “Nonboiler external piping” has the meaning given the term in the 1986 Pressure Piping Code B 31.1, adopted by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

(11) “Operating permit” means a permit issued by the department authorizing the operation of a boiler or pressure vessel.

(12) “Pressure vessel” means containers for the containment of pressure, either internal or external. This pressure may be obtained from an external source or by the application of heat from a direct or indirect source, or any combination thereof.

(13) “Related appurtenances” means any equipment instrumental to the safe operation of a boiler or pressure vessel.

(14) “Shop inspection” means an inspection at a boiler or pressure vessel manufacturing, construction or repair facility.

(15) “Temporary operation authorization” means an authorization issued by the department to operate a boiler or pressure vessel for a specified period pending the issuance of an operating permit. [1961 c.485 §3; 1969 c.582 §2; 1971 c.753 §58; 1973 c.830 §1; 1983 c.676 §3; 1987 c.414 §35; 1991 c.518 §2; 1993 c.744 §142; 2007 c.487 §3; 2009 c.696 §11]

Source: Section 480.515 — Definitions for ORS 480.510 to 480.670 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.725 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.725
476.725 Statewide standards for residential carbon monoxide alarms
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fire Marshal shall adopt rules establishing minimum standards for carbon monoxide alarms in one and two family dwellings and multifamily housing. The rules adopted by the State Fire Marshal may include, but need not be limited to, rules establishing minimum standards for the design, inspection, testing and maintenance of carbon monoxide alarms.

(2) The State Fire Marshal shall adopt rules establishing standards for the placement and location of carbon monoxide alarms in one and two family dwellings and multifamily housing that were not subject to state building code requirements for carbon monoxide alarm placement or location at the time of construction.

(3) In adopting rules under this section, the State Fire Marshal shall give consideration to state building code requirements and any standards adopted by national safety organizations.

(4) Notwithstanding ORS 476.030 (Powers and duties of marshal and deputies generally) , State Fire Marshal rules adopted under this section shall apply for all governmental subdivisions in the state. A governmental subdivision, as defined in ORS 476.005 (Definitions) may not enact or enforce any local ordinance, rule or regulation regarding the design, inspection, testing, maintenance, placement or location of carbon monoxide alarms. [2009 c.591 §4]

Note: 476.725 (Statewide standards for residential carbon monoxide alarms) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 476 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 476.725 — Statewide standards for residential carbon monoxide alarms; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.010 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.010
480.010 Labels for blasting powder and fuse
Status: in_force

All blasting powder and fuse shipped into this state for use, or manufactured in this state for use in this state, shall have stamped or printed upon the outside of the original package, box, case or wrapper the date of manufacture of the contents.

Source: Section 480.010 — Labels for blasting powder and fuse , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.605 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.605
480.605 Miscellaneous fees
Status: in_force

The Department of Consumer and Business Services may:

(1) Collect fees for shop inspections, or for inspections, testing, consultations, site visits or other services for which no fee is otherwise specified, in the amount of $75 per hour of travel and inspection time.

(2) Collect a fee for welding and inspectors’ examinations and for the renewal of inspectors’ certifications. The Board of Boiler Rules shall fix the amount of the fee. [1961 c.485 §22; 1969 c.582 §18; 1973 c.830 §8; 1993 c.744 §145; 2007 c.271 §9; 2009 c.696 §19; 2011 c.9 §69]

Source: Section 480.605 — Miscellaneous fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.910 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.910
479.910 Limited energy technician license
Status: in_force

(1) Upon payment of an application or renewal fee, the Department of Consumer and Business Services shall issue a Class B limited energy technician license to a person who qualifies under ORS 479.915 (Limited energy technician license requirements) . A person licensed under this section may perform limited energy electrical activity except protective signaling as defined in ORS 479.905 (Definitions for ORS 479.870 and 479.905 to 479.945) .

(2) A person licensed under this section shall comply with the permit and code compliance requirements under ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) .

(3) The application fee, and the renewal fee, for a Class B limited energy technician license are the same as those for a Class A limited energy technician license.

(4) The Electrical and Elevator Board shall establish continuing education requirements for persons licensed under this section, not to exceed 24 hours of classes every three years. [1991 c.529 §2; 1999 c.1031 §10; 2001 c.728 §5; 2003 c.14 §332; 2007 c.271 §6]

Source: Section 479.910 — Limited energy technician license; compliance with other laws; fees; continuing education , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.632 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.632
480.632 Employment of unlicensed worker prohibited
Status: in_force

A person licensed, or required to be licensed, under ORS 480.630 (Licensing of boiler contractors and persons installing, altering or repairing boilers or pressure vessels) to engage in the business of installing, repairing or altering boilers or pressure vessels may not employ any person to work on a boiler or pressure vessel unless the employed person has a valid license issued under ORS 480.630 (Licensing of boiler contractors and persons installing, altering or repairing boilers or pressure vessels) . [1983 c.676 §24; 2005 c.758 §37; 2007 c.306 §4]

Source: Section 480.632 — Employment of unlicensed worker prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.280 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.280
479.280 Lack of properly operating smoke alarm or smoke detector
Status: in_force

(1) If a rental dwelling unit is not equipped with the required smoke alarm or smoke detector, or if the smoke alarm or smoke detector is not operating properly and the owner or the owner’s authorized agent has not installed a properly operating smoke alarm or smoke detector within 10 days after receiving written notice from the tenant of the deficiency, the tenant may file a complaint with the State Fire Marshal or the appropriate official charged with the duty of providing fire protection services within the local jurisdiction.

(2) Upon receipt of a complaint filed under subsection (1) of this section, the State Fire Marshal or the appropriate local fire official shall investigate the alleged violation of ORS 479.250 (Definitions for ORS 479.250 to 479.305) to 479.305 (Smoking policy disclosure) . If the State Fire Marshal or appropriate local fire official finds that the landlord has failed to install a properly operating smoke alarm or smoke detector in the unit under investigation, the State Fire Marshal or local fire official may issue a citation which shall substantially conform to the requirements for a citation under ORS chapter 153.

(3) In the absence of a complaint from the tenant, the State Fire Marshal or an appropriate local fire official may initiate the citation process by presenting the owner with a written notice of the deficiency and specifying a period of not less than 10 days for compliance.

(4) If the State Fire Marshal or appropriate local fire official finds that the landlord of a hotel or lodging house has failed to comply with the requirements of ORS 479.255 (Smoke alarm or smoke detector required in certain structures) (2) or (3), the State Fire Marshal or local fire official may issue a citation which shall substantially conform to the requirements for a citation under ORS chapter 153. [1979 c.642 §7; 1981 c.309 §1; 1989 c.247 §6; 1999 c.307 §8; 1999 c.1051 §135]

Source: Section 479.280 — Lack of properly operating smoke alarm or smoke detector; complaint; investigation; citation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.341 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.341
480.341 Customer operation of gasoline dispensing device in low-population county of eastern Oregon
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section, “rural Oregon” means Baker, Clatsop, Crook, Curry, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Hood River, Jefferson, Klamath, Lake, Malheur, Morrow, Sherman, Tillamook, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco and Wheeler Counties.

(2) Subject to subsection (3) of this section, if a filling station, service station, garage or other dispensary where Class 1 flammable liquids are dispensed at retail is located in rural Oregon, the owner or operator may permit a customer to use or manipulate a device for dispensing liquids into the fuel tank of a motor vehicle or other retail container, regardless of whether an owner, operator or employee of the dispensary is present at the dispensary.

(3) If the site of a dispensary described in subsection (2) of this section includes retail space providing goods or services, other than goods or services for maintaining, repairing or cleaning a motor vehicle, the dispensary shall make an owner, operator or employee available for dispensing Class 1 flammable liquids after 6 a.m. and before 6 p.m.

(4) If a nonretail facility is located in rural Oregon, the owner or operator may, subject to ORS 480.340 (Automatic shut-off devices regulated) :

(a) Permit the dispensing of Class 1 flammable liquids at retail;

(b) Permit a person other than an owner, operator, employee or nonretail customer to use or manipulate a device for dispensing liquids into the fuel tank of a motor vehicle or other retail container; and

(c) Permit the use of an installed automated payment or self-service dispensing fuel device for the liquids.

(5) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Sales under subsection (2) of this section do not make a filling station, service station, garage or other dispensary where Class 1 flammable liquids are dispensed at retail subject to any provisions of ORS 480.310 (Definitions for ORS 480.310 to 480.385) to 480.385 (Civil penalty for gasoline dispensing law violations) regulating nonretail facilities.

(b) Sales under subsection (4) of this section do not require that a nonretail facility possess a license to dispense Class 1 flammable liquids at retail.

(c) Sales under subsection (4) of this section do not require that a nonretail facility possess a conditional use license issued under ORS 480.355 (Conditional use license) . However, sales under subsection (4) of this section do not prevent a nonretail facility that qualifies under ORS 480.355 (Conditional use license) from also possessing a conditional use license.

(d) Purchasing Class 1 flammable liquids under subsection (4) of this section does not make a retail customer subject to any gallonage requirement set forth in ORS 480.345 (Conditions for operation of dispensing device by certain nonretail customers) .

(e) Purchasing Class 1 flammable liquids under subsection (4) of this section does not make a retail customer subject to rules of the State Fire Marshal establishing safety training requirements.

(6) This section does not prohibit, limit or condition any dispensing of Class 1 flammable liquids or diesel fuel otherwise authorized under ORS 480.310 (Definitions for ORS 480.310 to 480.385) to 480.385 (Civil penalty for gasoline dispensing law violations) .

(7) No later than 90 days prior to commencing sales under subsection (4) of this section, a nonretail facility shall notify the State Fire Marshal that the facility plans to dispense Class 1 flammable liquids at retail under this section. [2015 c.525 §2; 2017 c.207 §1; 2023 c.607 §4]

Source: Section 480.341 — Customer operation of gasoline dispensing device in low-population county of eastern Oregon , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.755 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.755
477.755 Appropriation of fund
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section, “annual expenditure” means the expenses of the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund obligated in any 12-month period designated by the Emergency Fire Cost Committee by rule, corresponding to the policy period of any insurance for emergency fire costs.

(2) Notwithstanding ORS 291.238 (Expenditures without allotment prohibited) , the moneys in the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund are continuously appropriated to the Emergency Fire Cost Committee for the purposes of:

(a) Equalizing emergency fire suppression costs for safeguarding forestland in any forest protection district;

(b) Paying necessary administrative expenses, not to exceed the limit authorized by the Legislative Assembly each biennium;

(c) Contributing to the payment of emergency fire suppression costs insurance premiums, subject to the payment limitation established in ORS 477.775 (Emergency fire suppression costs insurance) (4);

(d) Paying costs related to the availability and mobilization of emergency fire suppression resources on a statewide basis; and

(e) Paying for nonroutine purchases of supplemental fire prevention, detection or suppression resources that will enhance the ability of the forester to perform fire protection responsibilities within a forest protection district.

(3) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the annual expenditure from the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund from revenues received from ORS 321.015 (Levy of privilege taxes upon harvest of timber for certain purposes) (2), 477.277 (Additional assessment to maintain unencumbered balance of Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund) (1), 477.295 (Minimum assessment under ORS 477.270) (1) and (2), 477.750 (Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund) (1) and (2), 477.760 (Reserve base of fund fixed) (4) and 477.880 (Acreage assessment) may not exceed the lesser of:

(a) $13.5 million; or

(b) The sum of:

(A) The lesser of $10 million or 50 percent of the eligible annual fire suppression costs determined by the committee;

(B) Necessary administrative expenses as determined by the committee and authorized under the limit described in subsection (2)(b) of this section;

(C) Contributions to the payment of emergency fire suppression costs insurance premiums, subject to the payment limitation established in ORS 477.775 (Emergency fire suppression costs insurance) (4);

(D) The lesser of $3 million or three-fifths of the actual cost of activities described in ORS 477.777 (Agency request budget) (1)(b) and (c); and

(E) Any amounts expended for nonroutine purchases described in subsection (2)(e) of this section. [1969 c.524 §3; 1989 c.23 §1; 1991 c.639 §5; 2003 c.685 §§4,9; 2005 c.802 §§11,12; 2013 c.619 §§1,2,3]

Source: Section 477.755 — Appropriation of fund; limitation on expenditures , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.615 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.615
476.615 Urban search and rescue
Status: repealed

(1) As used in this section, “urban search and rescue” means the provision of technical rescue services involving location, extrication and initial medical stabilization of victims trapped in an urban area, including from structures or trenches collapsed due to natural disaster, war, terrorism or accidents.

(2) The Department of the State Fire Marshal shall coordinate the urban search and rescue function of this state, including:

(a) Coordinating the activities of local, state and federal agencies involved in urban search and rescue;

(b) Establishing liaison with public and private organizations and agencies involved in urban search and rescue, including fire service providers and county sheriffs;

(c) Assisting in developing training and education programs; and

(d) Gathering and disseminating resource information of personnel, equipment and materials available for urban search and rescue.

(3) The department, on behalf of the State of Oregon, may solicit and accept gifts, grants, donations and other moneys from public and private sources for urban search and rescue purposes. Moneys received from such sources must be deposited in the State Fire Marshal Fund established under ORS 476.055 (State Fire Marshal Fund) and used for purposes related to urban search and rescue, subject to any restrictions or conditions established by the sources of such moneys. [2023 c.305 §2]

Note: Sections 5 and 6, chapter 305, Oregon Laws 2023, provide:

Sec. 5. (1) The Department of the State Fire Marshal shall study the needs of this state related to urban search and rescue, as defined in section 2 of this 2023 Act [ 476.615 (Urban search and rescue) ].

(2) The study must include:

(a) An assessment of the organization structure needed for urban search and rescue; and

(b) Recommendations for funding urban search and rescue in this state.

(3) The department shall submit a report in the manner provided by ORS 192.245 (Form of report to legislature) , and may include recommendations for legislation, to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to emergency management no later than September 15, 2024. The department shall prepare to testify as to its findings before the appropriate committees of the Legislative Assembly during the 2024 regular session. [2023 c.305 §5]

Sec. 6. Section 5 of this 2023 Act is repealed on January 2, 2025. [2023 c.305 §6]

GOVERNOR’S FIRE SERVICE POLICY COUNCIL

Source: Section 476.615 — Urban search and rescue , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.150 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.150
477.150 Smoke detection cameras
Status: in_force

(1) The State Forestry Department shall establish and maintain an expanded system of automated smoke detection cameras that includes staffing in detection centers to monitor and alert fire suppression staff when fires are detected.

(2) The system must serve the purposes of quickly detecting, locating and extinguishing fires and keeping fires as small as possible. [2021 c.592 §30]

Note: 477.150 (Smoke detection cameras) to 477.161 (Fire protection for lands outside forest protection districts) were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 477 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 477.150 — Smoke detection cameras , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.434 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.434
480.434 Examination of applicants for licenses
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fire Marshal shall examine applicants for licenses required under ORS 480.410 (Definition) to 480.460 (Disposition of fees) as to their knowledge of LP gas, its properties, related equipment and applicable safety regulations. An applicant for examination must submit an examination application, accompanied by an examination fee of $55, prior to the examination.

(2) LP gas fitters and drivers must be examined and obtain a license after not more than a 60-day probationary period of on-the-job training under licensed supervision.

(3) The State Fire Marshal shall examine LP gas installation license applicants regarding the applicable code and statutory responsibilities. The successful examination of one member of a firm or executive of a corporation at each business or dealership location fulfills the examination requirement on behalf of the firm or corporation. Each LP gas business or dealership location must obtain an LP gas installation license.

(4) If satisfied that the applicant has the requisite knowledge, the State Fire Marshal shall issue the appropriate license or licenses to the applicant, as provided in ORS 480.410 (Definition) to 480.460 (Disposition of fees) . [1957 c.712 §5; 1967 c.417 §28; 1987 c.346 §1; 2003 c.652 §2; 2009 c.790 §5]

Source: Section 480.434 — Examination of applicants for licenses; examination fee; issuance of license , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.960 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.960
477.960 Collection of assessment
Status: in_force

(1) Insofar as applicable, the assessment levied under ORS 477.880 (Acreage assessment) shall be due and payable to the forester in like manner and procedure, including penalties and interest, as set forth for the collection of the protection costs provided in ORS 477.270 (Budgeted cost of forester to be lien) . Wherever applicable, the assessment levied under ORS 477.880 (Acreage assessment) shall be combined with the budgeted cost certified to the county under ORS 477.270 (Budgeted cost of forester to be lien) as one amount for each account listed so that the officer in charge of the roll can extend the amounts on the assessment roll in a separate column in a single figure.

(2) The minimum assessment set forth in ORS 477.295 (Minimum assessment under ORS 477.270) shall be applied to the combined amount described in subsection (1) of this section. [1959 c.320 §5; 1961 c.689 §8; 1965 c.312 §4; 1967 c.179 §1; 1967 c.429 §43; 1985 c.759 §36; 1991 c.459 §417]

Source: Section 477.960 — Collection of assessment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.855 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.855
479.855 City and county inspection and enforcement programs
Status: in_force

(1) In addition to the provisions of ORS 455.010 (Definitions for ORS chapter 455) to 455.310 (Single-family residence repair and maintenance exempt from codes) and 455.410 (Relocated buildings) to 455.740 (Denial of certificate) , any inspection and enforcement program established by a city or county under ORS 455.148 (Comprehensive municipal building inspection programs) or 455.150 (Selective municipal building inspection programs) is subject to the provisions of this section. Where the provisions of this section conflict with provisions under ORS 455.010 (Definitions for ORS chapter 455) to 455.310 (Single-family residence repair and maintenance exempt from codes) and 455.410 (Relocated buildings) to 455.740 (Denial of certificate) , the provisions of this section shall control.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, any city or county that wishes to establish a program under ORS 455.150 (Selective municipal building inspection programs) to enforce and administer ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) and 479.995 (Civil penalty for violation of ORS 479.510 to 479.945) , including a program for inspection under a master permit pursuant to ORS 479.560 (Issuance of permit) (3), must first make application to the Department of Consumer and Business Services. The program for inspection under a master permit shall be delegated separately from the general electrical program authorization. The department may authorize the city or county to administer and enforce the provisions of this section and ORS 479.540 (Exemptions) and 479.560 (Issuance of permit) if it finds that the city or county can comply with the minimum standards and meet the qualifications for inspections, permit applications and other matters to assure adequate administration and enforcement of electrical inspection programs. The department may authorize the city or county to administer and enforce ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) and 479.995 (Civil penalty for violation of ORS 479.510 to 479.945) if the department finds that the city or county:

(A) Can comply with minimum standards adopted by the Electrical and Elevator Board by rule for inspections, permit applications and other matters to assure adequate administration and enforcement of ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) and 479.995 (Civil penalty for violation of ORS 479.510 to 479.945) .

(B) Can conduct the electrical plan review, if required by the city or county, in a timely manner and by qualified personnel who meet the standards adopted by rule by the board.

(b) The city or county must assume full responsibility allowed under ORS 455.010 (Definitions for ORS chapter 455) to 455.310 (Single-family residence repair and maintenance exempt from codes) and 455.410 (Relocated buildings) to 455.740 (Denial of certificate) for the enforcement, inspection and administration of the electrical safety laws under that specialty code and ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) and 479.995 (Civil penalty for violation of ORS 479.510 to 479.945) . This subsection does not require a city or county to assume full responsibility for enforcement, inspection and administration of the electrical safety laws if the only enforcement performed by the city or county involves manufactured dwelling electrical utility connections.

(3) The department, subject to ORS chapter 183, shall revoke any authority of a city or county to carry on inspections, enforcement or administration of electrical installations and electrical products under ORS 455.148 (Comprehensive municipal building inspection programs) or 455.150 (Selective municipal building inspection programs) if the department determines that the city or county fails to comply with standards adopted by the board or otherwise is not effectively carrying out duties assumed by the city or county under this section.

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, a city or county may not contract with competing electrical contractors to provide permit inspection of electrical installations.

(b) A city or county may contract with competing electrical contractors to provide permit inspection of electrical installations on a temporary basis by a supervising electrician if:

(A) Emergency circumstances exist; and

(B) The city or county has requested that the department perform permit inspections and the department is unable to respond in a timely manner.

(c) Nothing in this subsection prohibits a city or county from contracting with another city or county to perform permit inspections of electrical installations by a supervising electrician.

(5) A city or county that performs electrical installation inspections shall perform license enforcement inspections as a part of routine installation inspections. [1981 c.815 §37; 1987 c.575 §1; 1991 c.368 §3; 1991 c.373 §1; 1991 c.439 §1; 1993 c.451 §3; 2001 c.573 §20]

Source: Section 479.855 — City and county inspection and enforcement programs , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.840 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.840
479.840 Fees
Status: in_force

(1) Upon receiving payment of the applicable application fee, the Department of Consumer and Business Services may issue or renew a license or permit applied for under ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) . The fee to apply for or renew a license is:

(a) $125 per year for an electrical contractor license for each place of business operated by the applicant.

(b) $125 per year for a limited energy contractor, restricted energy contractor or limited sign contractor license.

(c) $25 per year for a pump specialty contractor or limited maintenance specialty contractor license.

(d) $150 per year for an elevator contractor license.

(e) $100 for a three-year license for a:

(A) General journeyman electrician;

(B) General supervising electrician;

(C) Limited supervising industrial electrician;

(D) Limited supervising manufacturing plant electrician;

(E) Limited maintenance industrial electrician; or

(F) Limited journeyman manufacturing plant electrician.

(f) $50 for a three-year license for a:

(A) Limited elevator journeyman;

(B) Class A or Class B limited energy technician;

(C) Limited journeyman sign electrician;

(D) Limited journeyman stage electrician; or

(E) Limited building maintenance electrician.

(2) The Electrical and Elevator Board shall set uniform permit fees, by rule, not to exceed the cost of administration.

(3) The fees provided for in this section do not apply to persons paying inspection fees under the terms of ORS 479.560 (Issuance of permit) (3) or 479.630 (Requirements for obtaining licenses) (10).

(4) Each electrical contractor may furnish to the department a corporate surety bond to be approved by the department, an irrevocable letter of credit issued by an insured institution as defined in ORS 706.008 (Additional definitions for Bank Act) or a cash bond under procedures approved by the department, in the sum of $2,000 guaranteeing the payment of all fees provided for under ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) . Before commencing any electrical job an electrical contractor who has a current bond or letter of credit under this subsection may apply to the department for a working permit which shall cost an amount established by the department by rule. The working permit shall authorize the electrical contractor to commence work. The total of all fees due for permits for each job, and the time such fees are payable, shall be determined by the department by administrative rule under ORS 479.730 (Adoption of rules by Director of Department of Consumer and Business Services) . The contractor shall keep the bond or letter of credit in force at all times. Any cancellation or revocation of the bond or letter of credit shall revoke and suspend the license issued to the principal until such time as a new bond or letter of credit shall be filed and approved. The department may bring an action against the surety named in the bond or the letter of credit issuer with or without joining in such action the principal named in the bond or letter of credit. [1959 c.406 §27; 1967 c.418 §1; 1969 c.436 §1; 1975 c.199 §1; 1977 c.874 §3; 1981 c.815 §33; 1983 c.733 §4; 1985 c.646 §3; 1987 c.602 §3; 1989 c.591 §3; 1991 c.331 §71; 1995 c.715 §4; 1997 c.631 §482; 1999 c.1031 §3; 2001 c.728 §2; 2003 c.14 §331; 2007 c.271 §5; 2007 c.548 §3; 2017 c.364 §6]

Source: Section 479.840 — Fees; rules; means to guarantee payment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.220 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.220
477.220 Lands not provided protection
Status: in_force

(1) The forester is not required to provide protection for forestland that is either a small parcel or a tract isolated from a forest protection district and which land is found by the forester as not practicable to be included in a forest patrol system.

(2) ORS 477.205 (Definitions for ORS 477.205 to 477.281) to 477.281 (Limitation on obligation of landowner for fire protection) do not apply to federal grazing land or federal timberland within this state for which adequate protection is provided unless the lands have been included within the boundaries of a forest protection district pursuant to a cooperative agreement with the federal government approved by the State Board of Forestry.

(3) Upon written request of the owner of lands that have been incorporated within a rural fire protection district, the forester shall determine whether the lands, or any part thereof, are forestland. Thereafter, those lands that have been so determined shall be included within ORS 477.205 (Definitions for ORS 477.205 to 477.281) to 477.281 (Limitation on obligation of landowner for fire protection) unless excluded pursuant to subsection (1) of this section. [Formerly 477.053; 2005 c.22 §358]

Source: Section 477.220 — Lands not provided protection; lands not included within ORS 477.205 to 477.281 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.590 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.590
476.590 Preparation of plans by State Fire Marshal
Status: in_force

The State Fire Marshal, in consultation with the Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, shall prepare plans for the effective carrying out of the provisions of ORS 476.520 (Governor authorized to assign fire-fighting forces and equipment) to 476.610 (Payment of claims) and provide advice and counsel to the Governor for the most practical utilization under ORS 476.520 (Governor authorized to assign fire-fighting forces and equipment) to 476.610 (Payment of claims) of the fire-fighting resources of this state. [Amended by 2005 c.16 §2; 2021 c.539 §24]

Source: Section 476.590 — Preparation of plans by State Fire Marshal; advice and counsel to Governor , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.210 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.210
479.210 “Institution” defined for ORS 479.215 to 479.220
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 479.215 (Institution not to be licensed or certificated unless in compliance with fire safety requirements) to 479.220 (Institution inspection by State Fire Marshal) , unless the context requires otherwise, “institution” means:

(1) A child-caring facility that provides residential care and that receives state aid under ORS 412.001 (Definitions) to 412.161 (Policy on two-parent families) , 418.005 (Powers of department in connection with child welfare services) to 418.025 (Prevention, reduction or control of juvenile delinquency by county programs and activities) , 418.205 (Definitions for ORS 418.205 to 418.327, 418.330, 418.470, 418.475, 418.950 to 418.970 and 418.992 to 418.998) to 418.327 (Licensing of private residential boarding schools) , 418.470 (Authority to pay for shelter-care homes) , 418.475 (Independent residence facilities) , 418.625 (Definitions for ORS 418.625 to 418.645) to 418.685 (Certain agencies declared to be orphans’ homes) , 418.647 (Foster care payments) and 418.950 (Definitions for ORS 418.950 to 418.970) to 418.970 (ORS 418.950 to 418.970 inapplicable to existing facilities) ;

(2) An inpatient care facility required to be licensed under ORS 441.015 (Licensing of facilities and health maintenance organizations) to 441.119 (Exemptions) , 441.525 (Definitions for ORS 441.525 to 441.595) to 441.595 (Construction of ORS 441.525 to 441.595) , 441.815 (Smoking of tobacco or use of inhalant delivery system in or near hospital prohibited) , 441.820 (Procedure for termination of physician’s privilege to practice medicine at health care facility) , 441.990 (Civil and criminal penalties) , 441.993 (Civil penalties and administrative actions) , 442.342 (Waiver of requirements) , 442.344 (Exemptions from requirements) and 442.400 (“Health care facility” defined) to 442.463 (Annual utilization report) ; or

(3) A residential facility subject to licensure under ORS 443.400 (Definitions for ORS 443.400 to 443.455) to 443.455 (Civil penalties) . [1961 c.316 §1; 1963 c.202 §1; 1969 c.641 §18; 1973 c.832 §10; 1977 c.717 §18; 2007 c.71 §155; 2016 c.106 §51]

Source: Section 479.210 — “Institution” defined for ORS 479.215 to 479.220 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.520 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.520
477.520 Refusal, suspension or revocation of permits
Status: in_force

The forester may refuse, suspend or revoke a permit authorized by or issued under ORS 477.515 (Permits required for fires on forestlands) (1), when necessary in the judgment of the forester to prevent danger to life, health, forest resources or property. The forester may also refuse, suspend or revoke a permit authorized by or issued under ORS 477.515 (Permits required for fires on forestlands) (1), when necessary in the judgment of the forester, and after consultation with the Environmental Quality Commission to prevent air pollution, as defined in ORS 468A.005 (Definitions for air pollution laws) . [1965 c.253 §96; 1969 c.680 §2; 1997 c.274 §13]

Source: Section 477.520 — Refusal, suspension or revocation of permits , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.715 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.715
476.715 Throwing away of lighted matches, cigarettes and other materials prohibited
Status: in_force

No one shall, at any time, throw away any lighted tobacco, cigars, cigarettes, matches or other lighted material, on any forestland, private road, public highway or railroad right of way within this state. Everyone operating a public conveyance shall post a copy of this section in a conspicuous place within the smoking compartments of such conveyance. [Formerly 477.164]

Source: Section 476.715 — Throwing away of lighted matches, cigarettes and other materials prohibited; posting copy of section in public conveyances , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.161 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.161
477.161 Fire protection for lands outside forest protection districts
Status: in_force

(1) The State Forester, in collaboration with the State Fire Marshal, state agencies and local governments as defined in ORS 174.116 (“Local government” and “local service district” defined) , shall adopt rules establishing baseline levels of wildfire protection for lands that are outside of forest protection districts and susceptible to wildfire. When establishing the baseline levels for lands, the State Forester shall ensure that the levels are adapted to reflect regional conditions. A county, in collaboration with the State Forester and the State Fire Marshal, may work to ensure that all lands within the county that are outside of forest protection districts and susceptible to wildfire are provided with wildfire protection services at the applicable baseline level or a higher level. As used in this subsection, “forest protection districts” means lands designated in State Forester rules as provided under ORS 477.225 (Establishment and change of forest protection districts) .

(2) A county, in collaboration with the State Forester and the State Fire Marshal, may assist:

(a) Landowners, individuals and businesses with forming jurisdictions to provide wildfire protection;

(b) Landowners, individuals, businesses and jurisdictions with obtaining expansion of or other changes to boundaries or facility locations of jurisdictions that provide wildfire protection;

(c) Jurisdictions to expand or adjust jurisdiction service boundaries to ensure adequate wildfire protection for lands; and

(d) Jurisdictions in developing wildfire protection facilities, equipment, training and other resources adequate to ensure that the jurisdiction provides timely and effective wildfire protection at the baseline level or higher on lands described in subsection (1) of this section throughout the jurisdiction.

(3) The State Forester may provide financial assistance to counties for carrying out county duties under subsection (2) of this section from any funds made available to the State Forester and designated for that purpose. [2021 c.592 §28]

Note: See note under 477.150 (Smoke detection cameras) .

Note: Section 29, chapter 592, Oregon Laws 2021, provides:

Sec. 29. A county shall ensure no later than January 1, 2026, that all lands described in section 28 (1) of this 2021 Act [ 477.161 (Fire protection for lands outside forest protection districts) (1)] within the county have baseline level or higher wildfire protection as described in section 28 of this 2021 Act. [2021 c.592 §29]

Source: Section 477.161 — Fire protection for lands outside forest protection districts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.915 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.915
476.915 Source of revenue to repay loan
Status: in_force

A city or rural fire protection district that enters into an agreement with the State Fire Marshal for a fire protection equipment acquisition loan may obtain moneys for repayment thereof in the same manner as other moneys are obtained for purposes of the payment of expenses of the city or rural fire protection district. [1991 c.587 §4]

Note: See note under 476.900 (Application by certain cities and rural fire protection districts to borrow money from loan fund) .

Source: Section 476.915 — Source of revenue to repay loan , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.854 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.854
479.854 Authority of municipality to require license
Status: in_force

(1) A municipality may enact and enforce an ordinance requiring a municipal general supervising electrician’s license upon the approval of the Electrical and Elevator Board and the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services.

(2) The Electrical and Elevator Board and director may approve an ordinance under subsection (1) of this section only if electrical installations within the municipality’s jurisdiction are of a unique character beyond the education or experience of a general supervising electrician licensed under ORS 479.630 (Requirements for obtaining licenses) (2), and the ordinance applies only to such installations.

(3) The director, after obtaining the opinion of the board, shall revoke approval of an ordinance upon a finding that in issuing its general supervising electrician’s license, a municipality has engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination against electricians from outside the municipality. [1983 c.580 §4]

Source: Section 479.854 — Authority of municipality to require license; approval of ordinance , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.258 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.258
479.258 Provision of notice of smoke alarm or smoke detector requirements for persons who are hard of hearing
Status: in_force

A landlord shall provide notice of the requirements of ORS 479.250 (Definitions for ORS 479.250 to 479.305) to 479.258 (Provision of notice of smoke alarm or smoke detector requirements for persons who are hard of hearing) , 479.280 (Lack of properly operating smoke alarm or smoke detector) and 479.295 (State Fire Marshal to adopt rules setting standards and providing for implementation of certain laws governing smoke alarms and smoke detectors) in a form and manner as specified by rule by the State Fire Marshal. [1989 c.247 §4]

Source: Section 479.258 — Provision of notice of smoke alarm or smoke detector requirements for persons who are hard of hearing; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.535 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.535
477.535 Forester may proclaim forestland subject to restricted uses
Status: in_force

(1) If the forester determines that any forestland inside or within one-eighth of one mile of a forest protection district is particularly exposed to fire danger, by proclamation the forester may designate such forestland as an extra fire hazard and may restrict the use of such forestland.

(2) The proclamation shall designate the area to which and the period during which the restrictions apply, and require that the area be subject to use only upon the condition that entrants comply with all the restrictions for the area.

(3) The proclamation shall designate the type of closure as:

(a) Regulated closure;

(b) Permit closure; or

(c) Absolute closure.

(4) For the purpose of consistency and coordination between all affected agencies in the administration of forestland restrictions, a plan shall be developed by the forester, in cooperation with federal, state and local governmental agencies, landowners and organizations affected by the restrictions. The primary objective of the plan is uniformity of regulations regardless of land ownership. The plan must recognize variation in fire danger and must specify levels of closure by unique but easily recognizable geographic boundaries. [Formerly 477.156; 1967 c.429 §45; 1989 c.615 §3; 1997 c.274 §14]

Source: Section 477.535 — Forester may proclaim forestland subject to restricted uses; coordination of state and federal land restrictions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.610 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.610
477.610 Standardization of fire-fighting equipment used to protect forestland
Status: in_force

(1) Notwithstanding any other law, the State Forester, in cooperation with other forest protection associations and agencies, shall carry on a continuous program for the standardization of equipment used for the protection of forestland from fire, and may issue rules, with the approval of the State Board of Forestry, for such standardization where it is the finding of the forester and board that such standardization is economically feasible.

(2) The provisions of ORS 476.410 (Standard thread hose couplings and hydrant fittings required) to 476.440 (Sale of nonstandard equipment prohibited) shall not apply to equipment used for the protection of forestland from fire. [1965 c.76 §§2,3; 1999 c.355 §16]

Source: Section 477.610 — Standardization of fire-fighting equipment used to protect forestland; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.775 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.775
476.775 Laboratories
Status: in_force

(1) A laboratory that conducts ignition propensity testing for purposes of ORS 476.770 (Determination of cigarette variety ignition propensity) must have a quality control and assurance program. The program shall be designed to ensure the testing repeatability value for all test trials used to certify a cigarette variety. The repeatability value of ignition propensity testing may not be greater than 0.19.

(2) Ignition propensity testing used in a manufacturer certification submitted under ORS 476.780 (Cigarette variety certification by manufacturer) must be conducted in a laboratory that has been accredited under:

(a) The ISO/IEC 17025 standard of the International Organization for Standardization, as amended and in effect on April 17, 2007; or

(b) A standard recognized in State Fire Marshal rules as comparable to prevailing international accreditation standards. [2007 c.34 §6]

Note: See note under 476.755 (Definitions for ORS 476.755 to 476.790 and 476.995) .

Source: Section 476.775 — Laboratories; ignition propensity testing , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.315 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.315
477.315 Definitions for ORS 477.315 to 477.325
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 477.315 (Definitions for ORS 477.315 to 477.325) to 477.325 (Budget for rangeland protection) :

(1) “Rangeland” means any land:

(a) That is located in that part of the state lying easterly of the summit of the Cascade Mountains;

(b) That has not been classified as Class 1, Class 2 or Class 3 forestland under ORS 526.305 (Definitions for ORS 526.305 to 526.370) to 526.370 (Seeding agreements as condition of supervision of burning on forestlands) ; and

(c) That may contain isolated tracts of forestland not so classified or not within a forest protection district, or that is primarily land used for cultivating crops, rangeland, undeveloped land or undeveloped area containing sagebrush, juniper and similar growths.

(2) “Rangeland protection association” means an entity that has the purpose of protecting rangeland from fire and is:

(a) Organized by owners of rangeland that is located within a rangeland protection system established under ORS 477.320 (Request of rangeland owners for protection) and lies wholly outside any forest protection district; or

(b) Organized with the approval of a county governing body to be a cost-neutral part of the emergency management program in a county having 200,000 or more acres of rangeland that are outside any forest protection district and are not protected by an association formed under paragraph (a) of this subsection. [Formerly 477.142; 2003 c.14 §315; 2016 c.69 §2; 2021 c.587 §1]

Source: Section 477.315 — Definitions for ORS 477.315 to 477.325 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.532 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.532
477.532 Regional air quality authority’s functions limited
Status: in_force

None of the functions of the Environmental Quality Commission under ORS 477.013 (Smoke management plan) , 477.515 (Permits required for fires on forestlands) and 477.520 (Refusal, suspension or revocation of permits) shall be performed by any regional air quality authority established pursuant to ORS 468A.105 (Formation of regional air quality control authorities) . [1969 c.680 §5; 1997 c.274 §49]

Source: Section 477.532 — Regional air quality authority’s functions limited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.510 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.510
479.510 Short title
Status: in_force

ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) and 479.995 (Civil penalty for violation of ORS 479.510 to 479.945) may be cited as the Electrical Safety Law. [1959 c.406 §1; 1981 c.815 §2]

Source: Section 479.510 — Short title , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.168 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.168
479.168 Definitions for ORS 479.168 to 479.190 and 479.990
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 479.168 (Definitions for ORS 479.168 to 479.190 and 479.990) to 479.190 (Liability in damages for failure to comply with order under ORS 479.170) and 479.990 (Penalties) :

(1) “Alter” in its various modes and tenses and its participial forms refers to an alteration.

(2) “Alterations,” as applied to a building or structure, means any change, addition or modification in construction or occupancy.

(3) “Construction” means the making, building, alteration, erection, reconstruction, rebuilding or production of a building or addition or extension thereto, or enlargement thereof, in any manner not included in the term “repair.”

(4) “Family” means an individual or two or more persons related by blood or marriage or a group of not more than five persons, excluding servants, who need not be related by blood or marriage, living together in a dwelling unit.

(5) “Hospital” means a building of any sort in which sick or injured persons are received or kept for medical, surgical or nursing purposes.

(6) “Occupancy” means the purpose for which a building or structure is used or intended to be used. Change of occupancy is not intended to include change of tenants or proprietors.

(7) “Owner” includes a duly authorized agent or attorney, a purchaser, a devisee, a fiduciary and a person having a vested or contingent interest in the property in question.

(8) “Private residence” means that part of a single, double or multiple dwelling house or building occupied as living or sleeping quarters by one or more family units, exclusive of any portion of such house or building devoted to commercial, processing or manufacturing use.

(9) “Public building” means a building in which persons congregate for civic, political, educational, religious, social or recreational purposes, including among others, state buildings, courthouses, schools, colleges, libraries, museums, exhibit buildings, lecture halls, churches, assembly halls, lodge rooms, dance halls, theaters, skating rinks, bath houses, armories, recreation piers, grandstands and bleachers in exhibition parks or fields, and jails.

(10) “Repair” means restoration of an existing thing to its former state, to refit, to mend, to make good. “Repair” does not include construction, reconstruction, alteration or rebuilding of a building or any part thereof. [Formerly 479.010; 2011 c.97 §7]

Source: Section 479.168 — Definitions for ORS 479.168 to 479.190 and 479.990 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.240 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.240
477.240 Advisory and guidance committees
Status: in_force

In any forest protection district wherein the forester has entered into a cooperative agreement or contract with a forest protective association or agency described in ORS 477.406 (Cooperative contracts or agreements for forest protection or forest related activities) (1), and the association or agency has appointed an advisory and guidance committee for the purposes of analysis and review of the protection plans and budgets for the district, the forester shall prepare the protection plans and budgets in conjunction with the committee. [1965 c.253 §63]

Source: Section 477.240 — Advisory and guidance committees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.175 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.175
477.175 Definition of “all possible aid” for agreement
Status: in_force

As used in the Northwest Wildland Fire Protection Agreement as set forth in ORS 477.200 (Northwest Wildland Fire Protection Agreement) , “all possible aid” means the assistance that a member can provide in response to a request for aid without materially diminishing the overall fire prevention or protection capabilities of the member at the time of the request and for the duration of the response to provide assistance. [1999 c.258 §3]

Note: 477.175 (Definition of “all possible aid” for agreement) to 477.200 (Northwest Wildland Fire Protection Agreement) were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 477 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 477.175 — Definition of “all possible aid” for agreement , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.360 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.360
478.360 Fund to provide retirement benefits
Status: in_force

The district may budget and provide for payment into the fund of the retirement plan an amount sufficient:

(1) To provide, on an actuarial reserve basis, the amortized level premium cost of the retirement benefits which, under the provision of the retirement system, are to be provided by the district to its employees who attain the retirement age or retire in accordance with the terms of the retirement plan.

(2) To meet the actuarially computed costs of retirement benefits measured on the basis of services rendered or to be rendered by an employee before or after the date on which such employee becomes a member of the retirement plan. [1963 c.366 §6]

Source: Section 478.360 — Fund to provide retirement benefits , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.435 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.435
480.435 Licenses
Status: in_force

In accordance with ORS chapter 183, the State Fire Marshal may revoke or suspend or may refuse to issue or renew a license required pursuant to ORS 480.410 (Definition) to 480.460 (Disposition of fees) , or may place the licensee in a probationary status subject to specified conditions, if the State Fire Marshal finds that the person to whom the license was issued:

(1) Deliberately falsified the application form for the LP gas license or examination;

(2) Has committed a violation of ORS 162.305 (Tampering with public records) ;

(3) Failed to comply with any provision of ORS 480.410 (Definition) to 480.460 (Disposition of fees) , or any rule adopted pursuant thereto; or

(4) Failed to maintain the status required under ORS 480.434 (Examination of applicants for licenses) . [1987 c.346 §3]

Source: Section 480.435 — Licenses; revocation; suspension; refusal to issue or renew , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.050 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.050
478.050 Qualifications for directors
Status: in_force

A director of a district shall be an elector or an owner within the district. A district may determine, by ordinance that takes effect at least one year prior to the date of a regular district election, that firefighters of the district, volunteer or otherwise, and other district employees shall not serve as directors. [Amended by 1963 c.299 §1; 1969 c.667 §7; 1971 c.647 §109; 1971 c.727 §§139,197; 1973 c.618 §1; 1987 c.834 §1]

Source: Section 478.050 — Qualifications for directors , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.040 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.040
480.040 Sale, exchange or possession, when unlawful
Status: in_force

No person shall sell or exchange, or offer or expose for sale or exchange, or have in possession for use by employees of the person:

(1) Any blasting powder or fuse which has not been stamped or printed upon as required in ORS 480.010 (Labels for blasting powder and fuse) .

(2) Any blasting powder of which the sale and use is prohibited by ORS 480.020 (Prohibition against sale of bad powder) .

(3) Any fuse declared to be unfit for use as prohibited by ORS 480.030 (Fuse unfit for use and sale) .

Source: Section 480.040 — Sale, exchange or possession, when unlawful , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.205 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.205
477.205 Definitions for ORS 477.205 to 477.281
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 477.205 (Definitions for ORS 477.205 to 477.281) to 477.281 (Limitation on obligation of landowner for fire protection) , unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Grazing land” means forestland, within a forest protection district, that has been classified as Class 3, agricultural class, as provided by ORS 526.305 (Definitions for ORS 526.305 to 526.370) to 526.370 (Seeding agreements as condition of supervision of burning on forestlands) .

(2) “Timberland” means forestland, within a forest protection district, that has not been classified as Class 3, agricultural class, under ORS 526.305 (Definitions for ORS 526.305 to 526.370) to 526.370 (Seeding agreements as condition of supervision of burning on forestlands) . [1965 c.253 §56]

Source: Section 477.205 — Definitions for ORS 477.205 to 477.281 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.308 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.308
478.308 Contracting with others for regional oil and hazardous material emergency response team
Status: in_force

(1) Any district may contract with another rural fire protection district, city or county to establish, operate and maintain a regional oil and hazardous material emergency response team. The contracting parties may provide for a joint board of control, composed of representatives of the contracting parties, to control the operation of the regional emergency response team.

(2) A rural fire protection district may receive a grant under section 42, chapter 539, Oregon Laws 1987.

(3) Any district whose boundary coincides with the boundary of this state may contract with a public agency or person in an adjoining state for the purpose of responding to spills or releases of oil and hazardous material.

(4) As used in this section, “hazardous material,” “oil,” “person” and “spill or release” have the meaning established in ORS 466.605 (Definitions for ORS 466.605 to 466.680) . [1987 c.539 §44]

Source: Section 478.308 — Contracting with others for regional oil and hazardous material emergency response team , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.215 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.215
479.215 Institution not to be licensed or certificated unless in compliance with fire safety requirements
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section or in ORS 479.217 (Temporary permit in lieu of inspection approval under ORS 479.215) , the Department of Human Services or the Oregon Health Authority may not issue an initial license or an initial certificate of approval to any institution when the State Fire Marshal, or an approved representative as provided in subsection (3) of this section, notifies in writing that the institution is not in substantial compliance with all applicable laws and rules relating to safety from fire established pursuant to ORS 476.030 (Powers and duties of marshal and deputies generally) .

(2) On January 1st of each year or as soon thereafter as practicable, the department and the authority shall furnish the State Fire Marshal with a complete list of all institutions licensed or approved by the department or the authority within the State of Oregon.

(3) The State Fire Marshal, deputy or the approved authority shall make or have made at least once each year an inspection of any such licensed or approved institution to determine its substantial compliance with the laws and rules as provided in subsection (1) of this section. If any required corrective measures are not completed within the reasonable time fixed or an extension thereof made by order of the inspecting authority, the department or the Oregon Health Authority shall be notified of the fact of noncompliance and appropriate action shall be initiated in accordance with provisions of ORS 476.030 (Powers and duties of marshal and deputies generally) and 479.170 (Ordering repair of, or removal of material from, buildings) . Except as provided in ORS 479.217 (Temporary permit in lieu of inspection approval under ORS 479.215) , if, at any time, the State Fire Marshal, or deputy, or the approved authority notifies the department or the Oregon Health Authority in writing that an institution is not in substantial compliance with all applicable laws and rules as provided in subsection (1) of this section, the licensing agency shall deny, withhold, suspend or revoke the license or certificate of approval of the institution.

(4) When an area has been exempted by the State Fire Marshal under ORS 476.030 (Powers and duties of marshal and deputies generally) , certification, annual inspection and notification of noncompliance when appropriate, shall be made and performed by the approved authority of the governmental subdivision having jurisdiction in such area. [1961 c.316 §2; 1963 c.202 §2; 1965 c.602 §21; 1973 c.832 §11; 2009 c.595 §978]

Source: Section 479.215 — Institution not to be licensed or certificated unless in compliance with fire safety requirements; inspection; list of licensed or approved institutions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.980 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.980
477.980 Enforcement policy
Status: in_force

The State Board of Forestry, by rule, shall establish the enforcement policy for violations prescribed in ORS 477.993 (Penalties) . In determining the enforcement policy, the board may consider the following factors:

(1) Prior violation of the same or similar statutes, rules or orders.

(2) The gravity and magnitude of the violation.

(3) Whether the violations were repeated or continuous.

(4) Whether the cause of the violation was an unavoidable accident or a willful, malicious or negligent act.

(5) Whether the violation directly threatened human life or caused property damage of $10,000 or more. [1993 c.697 §2; 1999 c.1051 §101]

Source: Section 477.980 — Enforcement policy; rules; factors considered , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.562 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.562
477.562 Registration fee
Status: in_force

(1) The State Forestry Department shall collect a nonrefundable registration fee for Class 1 forestland under ORS 526.324 (Classification of forestland by committee) to be burned west of the summit of the Cascade Mountains, not including Hood River County.

(2) Any owner of Class 1 forestland under ORS 526.324 (Classification of forestland by committee) and any agency managing Class 1 forestland under ORS 526.324 (Classification of forestland by committee) lying within the regulated area as described in the plan required under ORS 477.013 (Smoke management plan) shall register with the State Forester, in accordance with rules adopted by the State Forester, the number of acres to be burned prior to December 31 of the same year.

(3) The State Forester shall establish by rule the amount of fees to be collected under this section. The fees may not exceed:

(a) Fifty cents per acre for registration.

(b) $5 per acre for forestland classified as Class 1 under ORS 526.324 (Classification of forestland by committee) that has been treated by any prescription burn method authorized by the issuance of a permit under ORS 477.515 (Permits required for fires on forestlands) (1).

(4) Federal lands included within the regulated area under the provision of the smoke management plan approved under ORS 477.013 (Smoke management plan) shall also be subject to the fees authorized under subsection (3) of this section for forestland to be treated by any prescription burn method subject to the provisions of the State of Oregon Clean Air Act Implementation Plan and the federal Clean Air Act.

(5) The State Forester may establish a minimum fee per billing, combining the fees in subsections (1) and (3) of this section. The combined minimum fee may not exceed $30.

(6) In order to efficiently collect fees established by this section, the State Forester is authorized to enter into contracts or agreements with a federal land management agency, a person or a public body as defined in ORS 174.109 (“Public body” defined) . Such a contract or agreement may provide for payment methods such as estimated annual payments with periodic adjustment to ensure the recovery of actual fees due, or semiannual or quarterly consolidated billings.

(7) Notwithstanding ORS 291.238 (Expenditures without allotment prohibited) , moneys collected under this section shall be deposited in the Oregon Forest Smoke Management Account established under ORS 477.560 (Oregon Forest Smoke Management Account) . [1989 c.920 §8; 1991 c.919 §15a; 1997 c.274 §53; 2007 c.213 §5]

SNAGS; SLASHING

Source: Section 477.562 — Registration fee; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.085 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.085
480.085 Requirement for removal of unused explosives from work area
Status: in_force

(1) In addition to any other legal requirements, all users of explosives shall be responsible for the removal of all unused explosives from any area of use after the work for which the explosive was required is completed or when the user is absent for more than 30 days from the area of use, unless the explosives are stored in a manner meeting the safety requirements promulgated by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to ORS 476.030 (Powers and duties of marshal and deputies generally) .

(2) As used in this section:

(a) “Explosives” means dynamite, blasting powder, black powder, nitroglycerin, detonators, nitro-jelly, prima-cord and detonating fuse.

(b) “User” means any person using explosives for any purpose whatsoever, and regardless of whether such person is being compensated for such use. [1963 c.384 §1]

Source: Section 480.085 — Requirement for removal of unused explosives from work area , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.806 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.806
476.806 Cigarette Fire Safety Fund
Status: in_force

(1) The Cigarette Fire Safety Fund is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. The Cigarette Fire Safety Fund shall consist of all moneys recovered from the imposition of civil penalties under ORS 476.995 (Penalty for violation of ORS 476.760) . Interest earned by the Cigarette Fire Safety Fund shall be credited to the fund.

(2) All moneys in the fund are continuously appropriated to the Department of the State Fire Marshal for fire safety, enforcement and fire prevention programs. [2007 c.34 §14; 2021 c.539 §135]

Note: See note under 476.755 (Definitions for ORS 476.755 to 476.790 and 476.995) .

Source: Section 476.806 — Cigarette Fire Safety Fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.244 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.244
480.244 Storage facility approval
Status: in_force

(1) A person may store explosives only in an explosives magazine that has been issued a certificate of registration by the State Fire Marshal or has been approved by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for storing that type of explosive.

(2) An application for a certificate of registration shall be submitted on a form approved by the State Fire Marshal and shall contain all information required by rule of the State Fire Marshal, including but not limited to the magazine location and structural information.

(3) The State Fire Marshal may establish by rule and collect application and registration fees in an amount necessary to cover the cost of administering the magazine registration program.

(4) Except as provided in subsection (5) of this section, prior to issuing a certificate of registration, the State Fire Marshal shall inspect the magazine to ensure that the magazine complies with the rules established by the State Fire Marshal under ORS 480.280 (Administration and enforcement by State Fire Marshal) . The State Fire Marshal shall issue a certificate of registration for the magazine unless the State Fire Marshal finds that the magazine does not comply with the rules and regulations adopted by the State Fire Marshal. Denial of a certificate of registration shall be in accordance with subsection (9) of this section.

(5) The State Fire Marshal may substitute for its own inspection of the magazine as required under subsection (4) of this section an inspection completed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The State Fire Marshal shall establish criteria for when the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives inspection may substitute for the State Fire Marshal inspection.

(6) A certificate of registration shall be valid for two years unless suspended or revoked as provided under subsection (9) of this section.

(7) An application for the renewal of a certificate of registration shall be accompanied by any application fee established by the State Fire Marshal. A person who applies to renew a certificate before the person’s current certificate expires does not need to retake the safety examination described under ORS 480.225 (Eligibility for certificate of possession) (1)(j). Each magazine shall be reinspected prior to renewal of the certificate of registration.

(8) If a magazine required to be registered under this section or that is approved by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is relocated, the person responsible for the magazine shall notify the State Fire Marshal within 24 hours of the relocation. Upon receiving notification under this subsection, the State Fire Marshal shall notify the fire department or fire protection agency having jurisdiction over the new location.

(9) The State Fire Marshal may deny, suspend or revoke a certificate of registration if the State Fire Marshal finds that the magazine is ineligible for a certificate of registration. If the State Fire Marshal denies, suspends or revokes the certificate of registration, the issuing authority shall issue a notification of denial, suspension or revocation, subject to ORS 480.275 (Hearings on denial, suspension or revocation of certificate) .

(10) The issuing authority may revoke the certificate of registration for failure to comply with any provision of ORS 480.200 (Definitions for ORS 480.200 to 480.290) to 480.290 (Requirements for person driving vehicle transporting explosives) . [1999 c.980 §16; 2007 c.71 §161; 2009 c.164 §3]

Source: Section 480.244 — Storage facility approval; inspection; relocation; rules; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.040 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.040
476.040 Deputies and assistants
Status: in_force

The State Fire Marshal shall appoint chief deputy state fire marshals and deputy state fire marshals whose duties shall be to assist in carrying into effect the provisions of ORS 476.010 (Additional definitions) to 476.090 (Records of fires) and 476.155 (When judges authorized to issue inspection warrants) to 476.170 (Execution of warrant) , 476.210 (Investigation of fires by municipal officers and constables) to 476.270 (Insurance company reports of suspicious fires) and 479.168 (Definitions for ORS 479.168 to 479.190 and 479.990) to 479.190 (Liability in damages for failure to comply with order under ORS 479.170) . The State Fire Marshal may also employ such other assistants and employees and incur such other expenses as the State Fire Marshal may deem necessary in carrying into effect these provisions. The State Fire Marshal may remove any deputies or assistants for cause. [Amended by 1963 c.523 §6; 1985 c.118 §3; 1993 c.185 §26; 2011 c.97 §1; 2023 c.347 §6]

Source: Section 476.040 — Deputies and assistants , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.010 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.010
476.010 Additional definitions
Status: in_force

(1) As used in ORS 476.010 (Additional definitions) to 476.115 (Functions of regional appeal advisory boards) , 476.150 (Entry and inspection of premises) to 476.170 (Execution of warrant) and 476.210 (Investigation of fires by municipal officers and constables) to 476.270 (Insurance company reports of suspicious fires) , “alterations,” “construction,” “family,” “hospital,” “occupancy” and “private residence” have the meanings given those terms in ORS 479.168 (Definitions for ORS 479.168 to 479.190 and 479.990) .

(2) As used in ORS 476.030 (Powers and duties of marshal and deputies generally) and other laws relating to the duties of the State Fire Marshal, “governmental subdivision” means a city, county, municipal corporation, quasi-municipal corporation and rural fire protection district, created under the laws of Oregon.

(3) As used in ORS 476.380 (Fire permits) :

(a) “Commercial waste”:

(A) Means any waste produced in any business involving the lease or sale, including wholesale and retail, of goods or services, including but not limited to housing.

(B) Means any waste produced by a governmental, educational or charitable institution.

(C) Does not include any waste produced in a dwelling containing four living units or less.

(b) “Demolition material” means any waste resulting from the complete or partial destruction of any man-made structure, such as a house, apartment, commercial building or industrial building.

(c) “Domestic waste” means any nonputrescible waste, consisting of combustible materials, such as paper, cardboard, yard clippings, wood or similar materials, generated in a dwelling, including the real property upon which it is situated, containing four living units or less.

(d) “Field burning” means the burning of any grass field, grain field, pasture, rangeland or other field by open burning or by use of mobile equipment or flaming equipment on any land or vegetation.

(e) “Industrial waste” means any waste resulting from any process or activity of manufacturing or construction.

(f) “Land clearing debris” means any waste generated by the removal of debris, logs, trees, brush or demolition material from any site in preparation for land improvement or construction projects.

(g) “Open burning” means any burning conducted in such a manner that combustion air is not effectively controlled and that combustion products are not vented through a stack or chimney, including but not limited to burning conducted in open outdoor fires, common burn barrels and backyard incinerators. [Subsection (2) formerly part of 476.030 (Powers and duties of marshal and deputies generally) ; 1975 c.635 §1; 2005 c.22 §353]

STATE FIRE MARSHAL; POWERS AND DUTIES

Source: Section 476.010 — Additional definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.235 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.235
477.235 Forester to prepare tentative budget estimates for districts
Status: in_force

The forester shall prepare tentative budget estimates for each forest protection district for the ensuing fiscal year beginning July 1, in a manner consistent with accounting and budgetary procedures prescribed by the State Board of Forestry. [Formerly 477.041; 1967 c.429 §3]

Source: Section 477.235 — Forester to prepare tentative budget estimates for districts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.855 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.855
478.855 Loan fund created from bond proceeds
Status: in_force

(1) Proceeds of revenue bonds issued and sold under ORS 478.845 (Revenue bonds authorized for fire safety systems) to 478.875 (Remedies for breach of loan contract) that are to be used to fund loans to persons for acquisition and installation of fire safety systems in structures owned by the borrowers shall be deposited in a loan fund created for the purpose by a city or district.

(2) In addition to proceeds from the sale of revenue bonds, the loan fund created by this section shall consist of:

(a) Moneys repaid to the fund by borrowers who received loans from the fund.

(b) Proceeds of the sales of structures acquired by the city or district as a result of loan defaults.

(c) Other revenues, as defined in ORS 287A.001 (Definitions for ORS chapter 287A) , as determined by the city or district. [1995 c.725 §7; 2007 c.783 §211]

Note: See note under 478.840 (Definitions for ORS 478.845 to 478.875) .

Source: Section 478.855 — Loan fund created from bond proceeds; other sources for fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.300 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.300
479.300 Removing or tampering with smoke alarm or smoke detector prohibited
Status: in_force

No person shall remove or tamper with a properly functioning smoke alarm or smoke detector installed in conformance with ORS 479.250 (Definitions for ORS 479.250 to 479.305) to 479.305 (Smoking policy disclosure) . This prohibition includes removal of working batteries. [1979 c.642 §11; 1993 c.369 §22; 1999 c.307 §13]

Source: Section 479.300 — Removing or tampering with smoke alarm or smoke detector prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.980 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.980
478.980 Identification name for district formed by consolidation or merger of districts
Status: in_force

In the event of a consolidation or merger of two or more districts, the consolidated board shall select a name for the surviving or successor district in the manner provided in ORS 478.972 (Application by district to State Fire Marshal for identification name) . [1953 c.164 §6; 1969 c.667 §63; 1971 c.727 §143; 2001 c.426 §4]

Source: Section 478.980 — Identification name for district formed by consolidation or merger of districts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.350 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.350
480.350 License required for operation of nonretail facility
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in ORS 480.355 (Conditional use license) , a nonretail facility shall not operate without a license issued under this section.

(2) The State Fire Marshal shall issue a nonretail facility license to a person if the person submits an application to the State Fire Marshal on a form approved by the State Fire Marshal for each nonretail facility and the application includes:

(a) A statement that the applicant will comply with the requirements of ORS 480.345 (Conditions for operation of dispensing device by certain nonretail customers) ;

(b) A copy of the form that will be used by the applicant as the agreement required under ORS 480.345 (Conditions for operation of dispensing device by certain nonretail customers) between the applicant and nonretail customers permitted to dispense fuel at the nonretail facility;

(c) A sworn statement, as defined in ORS 162.055 (Definitions for ORS 162.055 to 162.425) , that information supplied in the application is true and correct; and

(d) An application fee of $300.

(3) The applicant for a nonretail facility license shall bear the burden of proof that the requirements of this section and of any rules of the State Fire Marshal adopted to implement this section are satisfied.

(4) In addition to any license or renewal fees, a licensee shall pay an annual fee of $10 for each nonretail customer that enters into a written agreement with the owner or operator of the nonretail facility under ORS 480.345 (Conditions for operation of dispensing device by certain nonretail customers) .

(5) A license issued under this section shall be valid for a period of one year from the date of issuance.

(6) A license may be renewed upon payment to the State Fire Marshal of an annual license renewal fee of $300.

(7) All fees received by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to this section shall be deposited with the State Treasurer and shall be placed in the State Fire Marshal Fund. [1991 c.863 §51; 1995 c.79 §292; 2010 c.107 §§11,12]

Source: Section 480.350 — License required for operation of nonretail facility; application; fee; term; renewal; disposition of fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.290 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.290
479.290 Certain persons not liable for damages resulting from mechanical failure of smoke alarm or smoke detector
Status: in_force

The owner, owner’s authorized agent, tenant, contract seller or contract purchaser of a dwelling unit shall not be held liable in any civil action for damages for death or injury to persons or property resulting from the mechanical failure of a smoke alarm or smoke detector required under ORS 479.250 (Definitions for ORS 479.250 to 479.305) to 479.305 (Smoking policy disclosure) . [1979 c.642 §9; 1999 c.307 §10]

Source: Section 479.290 — Certain persons not liable for damages resulting from mechanical failure of smoke alarm or smoke detector , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.140 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.140
478.140 Procedure for adding land to district by consent of owner
Status: in_force

Any owner consenting to add the forestland of the owner to the district under ORS 478.010 (Formation) (2)(c) shall do so on forms supplied by the Department of Revenue. The owner shall file the original with the district. The district shall forward a copy to the assessor of each county in which the land is located, within 20 days of receipt. [1973 c.337 §5]

Source: Section 478.140 — Procedure for adding land to district by consent of owner , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.940 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.940
478.940 Filing and posting of fire prevention code
Status: in_force

Copies of the fire prevention code shall be filed with the Department of the State Fire Marshal and a copy shall be posted at each fire station within the district. [Amended by 2021 c.539 §138]

Source: Section 478.940 — Filing and posting of fire prevention code , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.360 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.360
480.360 Exemption from gallonage requirements of ORS 480.345
Status: in_force

Any person who was a customer of a facility that is issued a license under ORS 480.350 (License required for operation of nonretail facility) and was a customer on and since June 30, 1991, and who qualifies as a nonretail customer under the provisions of ORS 480.345 (Conditions for operation of dispensing device by certain nonretail customers) , shall be exempt from the gallonage requirements set forth in ORS 480.345 (Conditions for operation of dispensing device by certain nonretail customers) (2). [1991 c.863 §50a]

Source: Section 480.360 — Exemption from gallonage requirements of ORS 480.345 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.385 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.385
480.385 Civil penalty for gasoline dispensing law violations
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fire Marshal may impose a civil penalty not to exceed $500 for each violation of any provision of ORS 480.310 (Definitions for ORS 480.310 to 480.385) to 480.385 (Civil penalty for gasoline dispensing law violations) or of any applicable rule adopted by the State Fire Marshal.

(2) A civil penalty imposed under this section shall become due and payable 10 days after the order imposing the civil penalty becomes final by operation of law or on appeal. A person against whom a civil penalty is to be imposed shall be served with a notice in the form provided in ORS 183.415 (Notice of right to hearing) . Service of the notice shall be accomplished in the manner provided by ORS 183.415 (Notice of right to hearing) .

(3) The person to whom the notice is addressed shall have 20 days from the date of service of the notice provided for in subsection (2) of this section in which to make written application for a hearing. If no application for a hearing is made, the State Fire Marshal may make a final order imposing the penalty.

(4) Any person who makes application as provided for in subsection (3) of this section shall be entitled to a hearing. The hearing shall be conducted as a contested case hearing pursuant to the applicable provisions of ORS 183.413 (Notice to parties before hearing of rights and procedure) to 183.470 (Orders in contested cases) .

(5) Judicial review of an order made after a hearing under subsection (4) of this section shall be as provided in ORS 183.480 (Judicial review of agency orders) to 183.497 (Awarding costs and attorney fees when finding for petitioner) for judicial review of contested cases.

(6) When an order assessing a civil penalty under this section becomes final by operation of law or on appeal, and the amount of penalty is not paid within 10 days after the order becomes final, the order may be recorded with the county clerk in any county of this state. The clerk shall thereupon record the name of the person incurring the penalty and the amount of the penalty in the County Clerk Lien Record.

(7) All amounts recovered under this section shall be deposited with the State Treasurer and shall be placed in the State Fire Marshal Fund. [1991 c.863 §55]

Source: Section 480.385 — Civil penalty for gasoline dispensing law violations , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.710 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.710
476.710 Setting fires adjacent to structures or timber on ocean shore prohibited
Status: in_force

No person shall set or permit any fire on the Pacific Ocean shore, declared to be a state recreation area under ORS 390.615 (Ownership of Pacific shore) , adjacent to any structure or any timber or forest area except pursuant to rule, regulation or permit of or from the State Parks and Recreation Department. [Amended by 1965 c.368 §7; 1989 c.904 §65]

Source: Section 476.710 — Setting fires adjacent to structures or timber on ocean shore prohibited; exceptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.406 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.406
477.406 Cooperative contracts or agreements for forest protection or forest related activities
Status: in_force

(1) The forester and a forest protective association may enter into a contract or agreement with each other or, jointly or separately, with a federal or state agency, political subdivision, corporation, responsible organization or responsible landowner or group of landowners for the prevention and suppression of fire on forestland or on land other than forestland, or both, to prevent and suppress fire.

(2) Contracts and agreements under subsection (1) of this section, and all renewals and revisions thereof, must be negotiated in accordance with procedures specified by rules of the State Board of Forestry.

(3) The forester and a forest protective association may enter into a contract or agreement for the accomplishment of forestry related activities.

(4) Contracts and agreements between the forester and a forest protective association under subsections (1) and (2) of this section may include the purchase from the forester of supplies and equipment needed to provide and support fire protection services. [1967 c.429 §24 (enacted in lieu of 477.405); 1969 c.204 §2; 1993 c.415 §1; 1999 c.355 §13]

Source: Section 477.406 — Cooperative contracts or agreements for forest protection or forest related activities; negotiation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.355 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.355
478.355 Establishment of employee retirement system
Status: in_force

(1) A district may establish an employees’ retirement system pursuant to ORS 478.355 (Establishment of employee retirement system) to 478.370 (Retirement benefits not to be funded for individual not employee of district when membership in system created) . The board may enter into agreements necessary to establish the system and carry out the plan and may agree to modifications of such agreements from time to time.

(2) The retirement plan may provide for retirement benefits measured on the basis of services rendered or to be rendered by an employee, either before or after the date on which such employee first becomes a member of the retirement plan. The retirement plan may provide for a minimum of years of service and a minimum and maximum age of retirement for the employee. [1963 c.366 §§3,4; 1969 c.667 §25]

Source: Section 478.355 — Establishment of employee retirement system; provisions of plan , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.115 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.115
476.115 Functions of regional appeal advisory boards
Status: in_force

(1) Each regional appeal advisory board shall:

(a) Elect a chairperson to whom referral of any matter by the State Fire Marshal shall be effective as to all board members, and who shall call and preside over meetings.

(b) Consider, and make recommendations to the State Fire Marshal concerning, any application for adjustment or variance arising within that region and referred to the board by the State Fire Marshal within 15 days after such referral. With relation to the referred matter the board may hold a hearing and receive testimony. The recommendations of the board shall be made in writing to the State Fire Marshal and shall be accompanied by a summary of any testimony received, any documentary or physical evidence received, any affidavit submitted by applicant and a summary of any special facts found by the board.

(c) Hear and consider, and make recommendations to the State Fire Marshal concerning, any appeal from an order made appealable by law, within 15 days after referral of such appeal to the board by the State Fire Marshal. Such recommendations shall be accompanied by the same summaries and evidentiary matter as in the case of an application for adjustment or variance referred to the board.

(d) Make recommendations to the State Fire Marshal concerning any matter referred to the board by the State Fire Marshal or considered by the board on its own motion, relating to fire prevention, protection from fire or other safety measures.

(2) At the time of each appeals board meeting a deputy state fire marshal shall submit to the board a report containing the pertinent facts and the manner in which the statutes or regulations apply to the case in point. [1965 c.602 §7(3)]

Source: Section 476.115 — Functions of regional appeal advisory boards; reports submitted to board , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.290 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.290
476.290 Billing owner of property for cost of extinguishing fire
Status: in_force

Whenever a fire is extinguished pursuant to ORS 476.280 (Municipal fire departments and rural fire protection districts authorized to extinguish fires in unprotected areas) , the governing body of the city or the district board of the rural fire protection district that provided the fire suppression service may, on forms furnished by the Department of the State Fire Marshal for such purposes, bill the owner of the property involved in the fire for the cost of providing the fire suppression service. The governing body of the city or the district board of the rural fire protection district that provided the fire suppression service may determine the cost of providing the fire suppression service by use of a state standardized-costs schedule as approved by the State Fire Marshal. The cost charged for providing the fire suppression service may not be greater than the pro rata cost that would have been charged by the city or district for the performance by the city or district of a similar fire suppression service within its jurisdiction. If the cost is not paid within 30 days after the second billing, the governing body of the city or the district board of the rural fire protection district that provided the fire suppression service may bring an action for the recovery of the unpaid cost from the owner of the real property upon which the fire suppression service was rendered. [1971 c.683 §2; 2005 c.22 §355; 2021 c.539 §130]

Source: Section 476.290 — Billing owner of property for cost of extinguishing fire; cost limited; collection; action for recovery of cost , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.545 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.545
480.545 Rules
Status: in_force

(1) Under ORS chapter 183 the Board of Boiler Rules may adopt and enforce rules and minimum safety standards to carry out ORS 480.510 (Short title) to 480.670 (Civil penalty for Boiler and Pressure Vessel Law violations) and adopt standards for persons performing welding on boilers and pressure vessels.

(2) All proceedings in the administration of ORS 480.510 (Short title) to 480.670 (Civil penalty for Boiler and Pressure Vessel Law violations) shall be conducted under ORS chapter 183 and, additionally, where applicable, under ORS 480.615 (Appeals) .

(3) In addition to the rules otherwise provided, and subject to ORS chapter 183, the board shall adopt rules concerning the times, dates, frequency and manner of giving notice to interested persons of intention to consider one or more of the things which the board may consider under this section.

(4) All rules and minimum safety standards adopted under this section shall be reasonable and in substantial conformity with generally accepted nationwide engineering standards. In adopting rules the board shall consider the probability, extent and gravity of injuries to health and property which would result from the failure to adopt the standards being considered and the standards followed, proposed or approved by members of affected industries.

(5) The board shall adopt rules establishing a continuing education requirement for persons described in ORS 480.630 (Licensing of boiler contractors and persons installing, altering or repairing boilers or pressure vessels) (8) and fees necessary for the administration and enforcement of the continuing education requirement.

(6) Any rule adopted by the board under ORS 480.510 (Short title) to 480.670 (Civil penalty for Boiler and Pressure Vessel Law violations) shall be submitted to the Director of Department of Consumer and Business Services. The director shall have 30 calendar days from the date of adoption of the rules to review them. If the director fails to disapprove the rules within the 30-day period, the rules become effective in accordance with their terms and as provided by law. If the director disapproves the rules within the 30-day period, the rules immediately shall be returned to the board with the director’s written objections, and the rules do not become effective until approved by the director. [1961 c.485 §7; 1969 c.582 §7; 1983 c.676 §9; 1991 c.518 §4; 2001 c.678 §1; 2007 c.271 §8]

Source: Section 480.545 — Rules; minimum safety standards; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.490 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.490
478.490 Election on question of dividing district into tax zones
Status: in_force

(1) After the public hearing required under ORS 478.480 (Formation of tax zones) (2), if the district board decides to proceed with the proposal, it shall submit the question of dividing the district into zones to the voters of the district at the next regular district election on the date specified in ORS 255.335 (Regular district election) (1).

(2) If a majority of the voters of the district voting upon the question vote in favor of dividing the district into zones, the district board shall enter an order in its journal declaring that fact. The order shall be conclusive as to the regularity of all proceedings in reference to the election and to the existence of the zones. [1983 c.569 §5]

Source: Section 478.490 — Election on question of dividing district into tax zones; order creating zones; effect , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.069 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.069
477.069 Negligence in origin and in failure to control fire may be united in one complaint
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other law, in any action authorized by ORS 477.068 (Liability for cost of abatement) to collect the costs incurred, the plaintiff may unite in the same complaint causes of action based upon any or all of the grounds therein mentioned. [1957 c.157 §1; 1961 c.603 §9; 1965 c.253 §54]

Source: Section 477.069 — Negligence in origin and in failure to control fire may be united in one complaint , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.005 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.005
476.005 Definitions
Status: in_force

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

(1) “Fire protection equipment” means any apparatus, machinery or appliance intended for use by a fire service unit in fire prevention or suppression activities, excepting forest fire protection equipment.

(2) “Governmental subdivisions” means a city, county or rural fire protection district in this state whose functions include regulation of building use and occupancy and the administration of fire safety laws, ordinances and regulations. [Formerly 476.800; 1985 c.118 §1; 1993 c.185 §24]

Source: Section 476.005 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.310 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.310
480.310 Definitions for ORS 480.310 to 480.385
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 480.310 (Definitions for ORS 480.310 to 480.385) to 480.385 (Civil penalty for gasoline dispensing law violations) :

(1) “Class 1 flammable liquids” means liquids with a flash point below 25 degrees Fahrenheit, closed cup tester.

(2) “Nonretail facility” means an unattended facility where Class 1 flammable liquids are dispensed through a card or key activated fuel dispensing device to nonretail customers. [Amended by 1991 c.863 §48]

Source: Section 480.310 — Definitions for ORS 480.310 to 480.385 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.720 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.720
476.720 Certain remedial statutes to be construed liberally
Status: in_force

ORS 476.010 (Additional definitions) to 476.090 (Records of fires) , 476.155 (When judges authorized to issue inspection warrants) to 476.170 (Execution of warrant) , 476.210 (Investigation of fires by municipal officers and constables) to 476.270 (Insurance company reports of suspicious fires) , 476.990 (Penalties) (1)(a) and 479.168 (Definitions for ORS 479.168 to 479.190 and 479.990) to 479.190 (Liability in damages for failure to comply with order under ORS 479.170) are remedial in nature and shall be construed liberally. [Amended by 2011 c.97 §2; 2023 c.347 §5]

Source: Section 476.720 — Certain remedial statutes to be construed liberally , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.010 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.010
478.010 Formation
Status: in_force

(1) A rural fire protection district may be formed in the manner set forth in ORS 478.010 (Formation) to 478.100 (Immaterial defects in organization not to invalidate district organization) .

(2) A district may not include:

(a) Territory within a city unless otherwise authorized by law.

(b) Territory within a water supply district organized under ORS chapter 264 if the district has previously been authorized by its electors to exercise the fire protection powers prescribed by ORS 264.340 (Purchase and maintenance of fire equipment) .

(c) Forestlands included within a forest protection district under ORS 477.205 (Definitions for ORS 477.205 to 477.281) to 477.281 (Limitation on obligation of landowner for fire protection) unless the owner consents and notifies the rural fire protection district, however, forestland protected pursuant to ORS 477.205 (Definitions for ORS 477.205 to 477.281) to 477.281 (Limitation on obligation of landowner for fire protection) and not exceeding five acres in one ownership shall be included in the rural fire protection district without the owner’s consent if the ownership includes any structures subject to damage by fire. Forestland included in a rural fire protection district under this subsection subjects the forestland to assessments for fire protection by the rural fire protection district and the forest protection district.

(d) Railroad rights of way or improvements thereon or rolling stock moving thereover unless the owner of such property consents.

(e) Ocean shores as defined by ORS 390.605 (Definitions) . [Subsection (2) enacted as 1953 c.144 §1; 1969 c.651 §3; 1969 c.667 §§3,69; 1971 c.727 §137; 1973 c.124 §1; 1973 c.337 §1a; 2001 c.104 §217]

Source: Section 478.010 — Formation; territories that may not be included in districts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.745 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.745
477.745 Liability of parents for costs of suppressing fire caused by minor child
Status: in_force

(1) In addition to any other remedy provided by law, the parent or parents of an unemancipated minor child shall be liable for costs incurred by the forester in suppressing fires on forestland caused by such minor child. However, a parent who is not entitled to legal custody of the minor child at the time of the fire shall not be liable for such damages.

(2) The legal obligation of the parent or parents of an unemancipated minor child to pay damages under this section shall be limited to not more than $5,000 payable to the forester for one or more acts.

(3) When an action is brought under this section on parental responsibility for acts of their children, the parents shall be named as defendants therein and, in addition, the minor child shall be named as a defendant. The filing of an answer by the parents shall remove any requirement that a guardian ad litem be required.

(4) Nothing in subsections (1) to (3) of this section applies to:

(a) Foster parents.

(b) Parents who have filed a petition for the unemancipated minor child under ORS 419B.809 (Petition) . [1995 c.605 §6; 2001 c.622 §52]

Source: Section 477.745 — Liability of parents for costs of suppressing fire caused by minor child , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.200 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.200
479.200 Fire protection water supply for public buildings
Status: in_force

Any public building, as defined in ORS 479.168 (Definitions for ORS 479.168 to 479.190 and 479.990) , erected after July 1, 1967, must have a readily available fire protection water supply. The State Fire Marshal shall adopt rules for determining the fire protection water supply for a public building. [1967 c.417 §19; 2005 c.22 §365; 2011 c.97 §5]

Source: Section 479.200 — Fire protection water supply for public buildings; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.120 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.120
477.120 Liability of owner or operator
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsections (2) and (3) of this section, the owner or operator of forestland is not subject to the obligations or penalties of ORS 164.335 (Reckless burning) and 477.740 (Unlawful use of fire) or 477.064 (Uncontrolled fire declared nuisance) , 477.066 (Duty of owner and operator to abate fire) and 477.068 (Liability for cost of abatement) if:

(a) Forest patrol assessments are regularly paid for the forestland;

(b) Such forestland is protected pursuant to membership in a forest protective association in accordance with ORS 477.210 (Duty of owner to protect forestland) , which association has undertaken the control and suppression of fires on such land as provided in the contract; or

(c) Such forestland is protected pursuant to cooperative agreement or contract under ORS 477.406 (Cooperative contracts or agreements for forest protection or forest related activities) .

(2) The provisions of subsection (1) of this section do not apply to such owner or operator if the owner or operator:

(a) Is willful, malicious or negligent in the origin or subsequent spread of a fire on such forestland;

(b) Has caused or permitted an operation to exist on such forestland and a fire originates thereon as a result of the operation;

(c) Has failed to give notice to the forester pursuant to ORS 527.670 (Commencement of operations) (6), has failed to obtain a permit for the use of fire in any form or power-driven machinery pursuant to ORS 477.625 (Permit to use fire or power-driven machinery) or has failed within the time prescribed in any order or notice issued by the forester to reduce, abate, or offset any hazard determined to exist pursuant to ORS 477.062 (Inadequately protected forestland declared nuisance) or 477.580 (Determination of additional fire hazards) and a fire originates on or spreads to the area on which such hazard exists and for which no release has been granted pursuant to ORS 477.580 (Determination of additional fire hazards) (3) or (4); or

(d) Has caused or allowed any burning, including burning regulated by ORS 477.013 (Smoke management plan) or 477.515 (Permits required for fires on forestlands) , whether or not a permit has been obtained and a fire results from or is caused by such burning.

(3) Unless subsection (2)(a) or (c) of this section applies, the owner or operator shall not be obligated to pay that portion of the actual costs provided in ORS 477.068 (Liability for cost of abatement) which are the ordinary costs of the regular personnel and equipment of the forest protection district wherein the forestland is located.

(4) If subsection (2)(b) or (d) of this section applies and subsection (2)(a) and (c) of this section do not apply, the owner or operator shall not be liable to the forester for fire suppression costs in excess of $300,000.

(5) The provisions of subsections (3) and (4) of this section do not apply to the owner or operator if the owner or operator fails to make every reasonable effort.

(6) For the purpose of subsection (2)(b) of this section, if a fire originates while an operation is in progress, there is a presumption, under ORS 40.120 (Rule 308. Presumptions in civil proceedings) , that the fire originated as a result of the operation. [Formerly 477.056; 1971 c.743 §385; 1973 c.46 §2; 1983 c.22 §4; 1989 c.615 §1; 1997 c.274 §48; 2007 c.847 §2]

Source: Section 477.120 — Liability of owner or operator , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.950 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.950
479.950 Minimum safety standards
Status: in_force

(1) Notwithstanding ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) , 479.995 (Civil penalty for violation of ORS 479.510 to 479.945) and 824.045 (Department establishment of state safety oversight program for rail fixed guideway public transportation system) , the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services shall adopt rules establishing, amending or repealing minimum safety standards for workmanship and materials for, and the design and construction of electrical products used in, traction electrification and electrical communications and electrical signaling installations for rail fixed guideway public transportation systems operated by a mass transit district established under ORS 267.010 (Definitions for ORS 267.010 to 267.394) to 267.394 (Investment of certain funds held by TriMet) . The rules adopted by the director under this subsection shall be the exclusive rules adopted for this state that establish minimum safety standards for workmanship and materials for, and the design and construction of electrical products used in, traction electrification and electrical communications and electrical signaling installations for rail fixed guideway public transportation systems operated by a mass transit district.

(2) Before adopting rules under subsection (1) of this section, the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services shall consider:

(a) Technological advances in the rail fixed guideway industry.

(b) The practicability of following the standards under consideration, if adopted.

(c) The probability, extent and gravity of the injury to the public or to property that will result from failure to follow the standards under consideration.

(d) Safety standards followed, proposed or approved by responsible members of the rail fixed guideway industry.

(3) Notwithstanding ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) , 479.995 (Civil penalty for violation of ORS 479.510 to 479.945) and 824.045 (Department establishment of state safety oversight program for rail fixed guideway public transportation system) , the Department of Consumer and Business Services is designated as the state agency to administer and enforce the standards established by the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services under this section. The department shall adopt rules establishing procedures for the administration and enforcement of such standards. [1997 c.275 §42; 2017 c.46 §3]

Note: 479.950 (Minimum safety standards) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 479 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 479.950 — Minimum safety standards; rules; criteria , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.680 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.680
476.680 Governor’s Fire Service Policy Council
Status: in_force

(1) There is created the Governor’s Fire Service Policy Council. The council shall include the following nonvoting ex officio members:

(a) The Superintendent of State Police; and

(b) The Director of the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training, or a designee thereof.

(2) The State Fire Marshal shall serve as executive director of the council, but is not a member. The council shall meet at least quarterly. The council shall select a chairperson and vice chairperson at the first council meeting of each odd-numbered year. The council may elect additional officers as the council determines to be reasonable and necessary.

(3) In addition to the ex officio members identified in subsection (1) of this section, the Governor may designate a representative of the Governor to serve as a nonvoting member. The Governor may also appoint not more than nine members to serve on the council for three-year terms. Initial terms of the appointed members may be adjusted to promote council stability. An appointed member may not serve more than two consecutive terms. A member appointed by the Governor must be a representative of one of the following:

(a) The Oregon Fire Chiefs Association or a successor or other organization representing fire chiefs.

(b) The Oregon Fire District Directors Association or a successor or other organization representing fire district directors.

(c) The Oregon Fire Marshals Association or a successor or other organization representing fire marshals.

(d) Property and casualty insurance providers.

(e) Employees of the Department of the State Fire Marshal.

(f) The Oregon State Fire Fighters Council or a successor or other organization representing professional firefighters.

(g) The Oregon Volunteer Firefighters Association or a successor or other organization representing volunteer firefighters.

(h) The League of Oregon Cities or a successor or other organization representing municipalities.

(i) The general public.

(4) Notwithstanding the term of office specified in subsection (3) of this section, the initial term of a member appointed by the Governor may be adjusted to limit the number of member terms expiring in the same year.

(5) To the extent funding is available from moneys appropriated to the Department of the State Fire Marshal, a member of the council is entitled to compensation and expenses as provided in ORS 292.495 (Compensation and expenses of members of state boards and commissions) .

(6) The council shall advise the Governor and the Superintendent of State Police on fire policy issues and serve in an advisory capacity to the State Fire Marshal on strategies for the implementation of fire and life safety issues. The council may initiate advice to the State Fire Marshal, the Superintendent of State Police and the Governor on any matter related to the mission of the council. The council may not participate in the discussion of traditional labor relations issues.

(7) The Department of the State Fire Marshal shall provide staff services to the council. All agencies, departments and officers of this state are directed to assist the council in the performance of its functions and to furnish information and advice as the council considers necessary. [2001 c.647 §1; 2011 c.9 §66; 2021 c.539 §131]

Note: 476.680 (Governor’s Fire Service Policy Council) and 476.685 (Biennial reports) were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 476 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 476.680 — Governor’s Fire Service Policy Council; membership; terms; duties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.990 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.990
476.990 Penalties
Status: in_force

(1) The following are Class A misdemeanors:

(a) Violation of ORS 476.150 (Entry and inspection of premises) (2).

(b) Violation of ORS 476.380 (Fire permits) (1) or 476.510 (Short title) to 476.610 (Payment of claims) .

(2) Subject to ORS 153.022 (Authority of agency to specify rule violation as particular level of violation) , violation of ORS 476.710 (Setting fires adjacent to structures or timber on ocean shore prohibited) or 476.715 (Throwing away of lighted matches, cigarettes and other materials prohibited) or of any rule or regulation of the State Parks and Recreation Department promulgated thereunder is a Class B misdemeanor.

(3) Violation of ORS 476.410 (Standard thread hose couplings and hydrant fittings required) to 476.440 (Sale of nonstandard equipment prohibited) is a Class C misdemeanor.

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, violation of ORS 476.715 (Throwing away of lighted matches, cigarettes and other materials prohibited) is a Class A violation.

(b) Violation of ORS 476.715 (Throwing away of lighted matches, cigarettes and other materials prohibited) is a Class B misdemeanor if the conduct constituting the offense:

(A) Results in the ignition of a fire; or

(B) Occurs within a forest protection district organized under ORS 477.225 (Establishment and change of forest protection districts) , or a part thereof, for which a fire season has been designated pursuant to ORS 477.505 (State Forester may declare fire season in district) . [Subsection (5) of 1959 Replacement Part formerly 477.990(5); 1961 c.52 §1; subsection (2) enacted as 1967 c.420 §4; subsection (6) enacted as 1967 c.417 §13 and 1967 c.417 §15; 1971 c.563 §10; 1971 c.743 §383; 1999 c.1051 §312; 2001 c.104 §216; 2011 c.597 §219; 2023 c.315 §1; 2023 c.347 §4]

Source: Section 476.990 — Penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.062 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.062
477.062 Inadequately protected forestland declared nuisance
Status: in_force

(1) All forestland that by reason of its lack of adequate fire protection endangers life, forest resources or property is declared to be a public nuisance.

(2) Whenever the forester learns thereof, the forester may direct the owner or operator of such forestland to take proper steps for its protection and advise the owner or operator of means to that end. In case of refusal or neglect by either to take precautions against fire required by law or when so directed by the forester in writing, within such time as is specified in the writing, then the forester may have such work done as the forester considers necessary for the protection of life, forest resources or property, without the necessity of court action.

(3) The cost of work under subsection (2) of this section and the expense of any patrol rendered necessary by the want of adequate protection of such forestland shall be recoverable from the offender by an action prosecuted in the name of the state.

(4) All moneys collected under this section shall be paid into the State Treasury, credited to the State Forestry Department Account and expended as other moneys in that account are expended. [Formerly 477.032; 1965 c.253 §50; 1997 c.274 §2]

Source: Section 477.062 — Inadequately protected forestland declared nuisance; notice to protect; work at expense of owner; collection of amount expended , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.360 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.360
477.360 Duties of fire warden for forest protection district
Status: in_force

The district fire warden, under the direction of the State Forester, has charge of the fire prevention and suppression system in the forest protection district of the warden and such other duties as are required by law and the rules of the State Board of Forestry. Any other wardens serving in the district are subject to the direction of the district fire warden. [Formerly 477.008; 1999 c.355 §12]

Source: Section 477.360 — Duties of fire warden for forest protection district , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.750 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.750
477.750 Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund
Status: in_force

(1) The Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund is created, separate and distinct from the General Fund. This fund shall be held by the State Treasurer as a trust fund for the uses and purposes provided in ORS 477.750 (Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund) to 477.775 (Emergency fire suppression costs insurance) and 477.880 (Acreage assessment) . The State Treasurer shall deposit and invest moneys in the fund as provided by law, taking into account its uses and purposes. Interest earned by the fund shall be credited to the fund.

(2) Notwithstanding any other law and as limited by ORS 477.750 (Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund) to 477.775 (Emergency fire suppression costs insurance) and 477.880 (Acreage assessment) , that part of the suspense account created by ORS 321.145 (Tax revenue credited to suspense account) that is derived from the tax levied by ORS 321.015 (Levy of privilege taxes upon harvest of timber for certain purposes) (2) after refunds and other costs permitted by law, shall be credited to the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund. [1969 c.524 §2; 1983 c.16 §3; 1985 c.759 §33; 1989 c.769 §12; 1989 c.966 §57]

Source: Section 477.750 — Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund; source; use , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.234 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.234
478.234 Subdistricts for nomination or election of directors
Status: in_force

(1) The question whether subdistricts should be established for the purpose of nominating or electing one or more board members may be submitted at an election called under ORS 198.866 (Annexation of city to district) and 198.867 (Approval of annexation to district by electors of city and district) , or at an election on merger or consolidation called under ORS 198.903 (Joint assembly of governing bodies of affected districts or cities) .

(2) The following provisions of ORS 478.225 (Election subdistricts) (4) apply to an election on annexation, merger or consolidation when the question of establishing subdistricts is submitted at that election:

(a) The requirements applicable to the ballot title.

(b) The provision for a map of the proposed subdistrict boundaries. [1983 c.350 §286c]

Source: Section 478.234 — Subdistricts for nomination or election of directors , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.430 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.430
476.430 Changing private equipment
Status: in_force

The State Fire Marshal shall notify industrial establishments and property owners having equipment for fire protection purposes, which may be necessary for a fire department to use in protecting the property or putting out fire, of the changes necessary to bring their equipment up to the requirements of the standard established and shall render them such assistance as may be available in converting their defective equipment to standard requirements.

Source: Section 476.430 — Changing private equipment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.270 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.270
478.270 Reports of directors
Status: in_force

(1) The district board shall report monthly to the State Fire Marshal, upon forms prescribed by the State Fire Marshal, information the State Fire Marshal may require, and shall, at any time, upon request furnish further report or information required by the State Fire Marshal.

(2) The State Fire Marshal shall cooperate in the formation, operation and administration of districts. The Department of the State Fire Marshal shall prepare and make available uniform forms for reports required by this section and other uniform forms and blanks the State Fire Marshal considers advisable. [Amended by 1969 c.667 §18; 1983 c.192 §2; 2021 c.539 §137]

Source: Section 478.270 — Reports of directors; State Fire Marshal cooperation; uniform forms , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.160 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.160
478.160 Filing of boundary or zone change with county assessor and Department of Revenue
Status: in_force

For purposes of ad valorem taxation, a boundary or zone change must be filed in final approved form with the county assessor and the Department of Revenue as provided in ORS 308.225 (Boundary changes) . [2001 c.138 §38]

Source: Section 478.160 — Filing of boundary or zone change with county assessor and Department of Revenue , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.570 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.570
479.570 Energizing of electrical installations
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, a person who sells electricity may not energize an electrical installation unless the installation is first approved by an inspector authorized to perform inspections under ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) .

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

(a) An installation for which a written request to energize has been made by a licensed supervising electrician qualified pursuant to ORS 479.630 (Requirements for obtaining licenses) (2) and to which the appropriate electrical permit has been attached;

(b) A temporary installation of less than 480 volts made to provide service to a construction site or irrigation pump if the installation is properly grounded and the appropriate electrical permit is attached thereto;

(c) An installation within a plant or system of a person who sells electricity. As used in this paragraph, “person who sells electricity” does not include small power production facilities as defined in ORS 758.500 (1981 Replacement Part); or

(d) A minor electrical installation for which a valid installation label has been issued.

(3) Electrical installations energized without inspection pursuant to subsection (2)(a) and (b) of this section must receive final inspection as required by ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) .

(4) Notwithstanding ORS 756.040 (General powers) , 756.060 (Authority to adopt rules and regulations) and 757.035 (Adoption of safety rules and regulations) , the Department of Consumer and Business Services, in consultation with the Electrical and Elevator Board, may adopt rules regulating the use of a written request by a licensed supervising electrician as described in subsection (2)(a) of this section as adequate authority for a person who sells electricity to energize an electrical installation. [1959 c.406 §8; 1981 c.815 §11; 1983 c.580 §1; 1987 c.575 §6; 2003 c.14 §324; 2007 c.405 §1]

Source: Section 479.570 — Energizing of electrical installations; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.850 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.850
479.850 Disposition of receipts
Status: in_force

All receipts from civil penalties, fees, charges, costs and expenses provided for in ORS 455.895 (Civil penalties) (1)(b), 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) , 479.990 (Penalties) and 479.995 (Civil penalty for violation of ORS 479.510 to 479.945) when collected shall be:

(1) Paid into the Consumer and Business Services Fund created by ORS 705.145 (Consumer and Business Services Fund) ; and

(2) Used only for the enforcement and administration of ORS 479.510 (Short title) to 479.945 (Restricted energy contractor’s license) and 479.995 (Civil penalty for violation of ORS 479.510 to 479.945) . [1959 c.406 §28; 1971 c.753 §57; 1973 c.528 §18; 1973 c.834 §48; 1981 c.815 §35; 1987 c.905 §33; 1993 c.744 §131; 2001 c.411 §26]

Source: Section 479.850 — Disposition of receipts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.190 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.190
477.190 Authority of Governor to carry out agreement
Status: in_force

The Governor may take any action necessary to carry out the Northwest Wildland Fire Protection Agreement as set forth in ORS 477.200 (Northwest Wildland Fire Protection Agreement) . The Governor may delegate the authority granted under this section or ORS 477.180 (Ratification of amendment to agreement) and 477.185 (Use of local fire protection resources) to the State Forester. [1999 c.258 §6]

Note: See note under 477.175 (Definition of “all possible aid” for agreement) .

Source: Section 477.190 — Authority of Governor to carry out agreement , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.380 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.380
480.380 Rules
Status: in_force

In accordance with applicable provisions of ORS chapter 183, the State Fire Marshal, in consultation with the Department of Environmental Quality, shall adopt rules:

(1) Necessary for the administration of ORS 480.310 (Definitions for ORS 480.310 to 480.385) to 480.385 (Civil penalty for gasoline dispensing law violations) ;

(2) Establishing standards for the design, construction, location, installation and operation of retail, automated or dual operations equipment for storing, handling and dispensing Class 1 flammable liquids at any dispensing facility; and

(3) Establishing standards for public and environmental safety in the operation of nonretail facilities and establishing safety training requirements for nonretail customers authorized to dispense Class 1 flammable liquids at nonretail facilities. [1991 c.863 §57]

Source: Section 480.380 — Rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.347 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.347
480.347 Use of gasoline dispensing device by emergency service volunteer
Status: repealed

Notwithstanding any restriction in ORS 480.332 (Fuel dispensing devices) , 480.341 (Customer operation of gasoline dispensing device in low-population county of eastern Oregon) or 480.345 (Conditions for operation of dispensing device by certain nonretail customers) , during an emergency as defined in ORS 401.025 (Definitions for ORS chapter 401) , the owner, operator or employee of a dispensing facility may permit nonretail customers, other than the owner, operator or employee, to use or manipulate at the dispensing facility a card activated or key activated device for dispensing Class 1 flammable liquids into the fuel tank of a vehicle or other container if:

(1) The owner or operator holds a current nonretail facility license issued by the State Fire Marshal under ORS 480.350 (License required for operation of nonretail facility) ;

(2) The fuel is dispensed to an emergency service agency as defined in ORS 401.025 (Definitions for ORS chapter 401) or to an entity authorized by an emergency service agency to provide services during an emergency;

(3) The nonretail customer, other than the owner or operator, dispensing Class 1 flammable liquids is a qualified emergency service volunteer as defined in ORS 401.358 (Definitions for ORS 401.358 to 401.368) or an owner or employee of the entity authorized by the emergency service agency to provide services during an emergency and dispenses Class 1 flammable liquids only into the fuel tank of a vehicle or other container owned and used by the emergency service agency or the entity authorized by that agency to provide services during an emergency; and

(4) The nonretail customer, other than the owner, operator or employee, dispensing Class 1 flammable liquids satisfies safety training requirements in compliance with rules of the State Fire Marshal. [1999 c.456 §2; 2009 c.718 §26; 2023 c.607 §7]

Note: Sections 10 and 11, chapter 607, Oregon Laws 2023, provide:

Sec. 10. The Department of the State Fire Marshal, in collaboration with organizations representing filling stations, service stations, garages or other dispensaries, may engage in public outreach efforts to educate the public generally about the changes in attended fuel service laws and to educate operators of filling stations, service stations, garages or other dispensaries where Class 1 flammable liquids are dispensed at retail about the requirements under section 2 of this 2023 Act [ 480.332 (Fuel dispensing devices) ], the amendments to ORS 479.180 (Appeal from order to comply with fire prevention statutes) , 480.340 (Automatic shut-off devices regulated) , 480.341 (Customer operation of gasoline dispensing device in low-population county of eastern Oregon) , 480.344 (Equal access for persons with disabilities) , 480.345 (Conditions for operation of dispensing device by certain nonretail customers) and 480.347 (Use of gasoline dispensing device by emergency service volunteer) by sections 3 to 8 of this 2023 Act and the repeal of ORS 480.315, 480.320, 480.330, 480.343 and 480.349 by section 9 of this 2023 Act. [2023 c.607 §10]

Sec. 11. Section 10 of this 2023 Act is repealed on January 2, 2024. [2023 c.607 §11]

Source: Section 480.347 — Use of gasoline dispensing device by emergency service volunteer; conditions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.580 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.580
480.580 Access to buildings and premises by inspectors
Status: in_force

(1) The chief boiler inspector or any deputy inspector may, at all reasonable hours, in performance of the duties imposed by the provisions of ORS 480.510 (Short title) to 480.670 (Civil penalty for Boiler and Pressure Vessel Law violations) , enter into all buildings and upon all premises, except private residences, for the purpose of inspecting any boiler or pressure vessel that is covered by ORS 480.510 (Short title) to 480.670 (Civil penalty for Boiler and Pressure Vessel Law violations) and that the chief boiler inspector or the deputy inspector has reasonable cause to believe is located therein.

(2) No person shall interfere with or prevent any such inspection by the chief boiler inspector or a deputy inspector. [1961 c.485 §16; 1969 c.582 §14; 1983 c.676 §14; 2007 c.71 §166]

Source: Section 480.580 — Access to buildings and premises by inspectors , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.860 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.860
479.860 Persons authorized to design, plan and lay out electrical installations
Status: in_force

(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a person who is the holder of a supervising electrician’s license:

(a) Who is employed by the holder of an electrical contractor’s license may design, plan and lay out electrical installations for customers of the electrical contractor without obtaining any other license, permit or certificate; or

(b) Who is employed by an industrial plant may design, plan and lay out electrical installations for that industrial plant.

(2) The Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, after consultation with the Electrical and Elevator Board and the State Board of Examiners for Engineering and Land Surveying, may adopt rules designating classes of board licensees that may design, plan and lay out noncomplex electrical installations. Licensees are not subject to any requirement for an additional license, permit, certificate or registration when engaging in the design, planning or laying out of electrical installations as authorized by a rule adopted under this subsection. [1987 c.384 §2; 2005 c.570 §1]

Source: Section 479.860 — Persons authorized to design, plan and lay out electrical installations; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.655 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.655
477.655 Fire-fighting tools and equipment at operation area and on trucks
Status: in_force

During a fire season inside or within one-eighth of one mile of a forest protection district:

(1) Every person conducting an operation shall provide and maintain, at the operation area or at a location designated by the forester, fire-fighting tools that are in conformity with rules promulgated by the State Forester. The tools shall be used only for fighting fire and for no other purpose.

(2) Each internal combustion engine used in an operation area shall be equipped with fire-fighting tools and equipment that are in conformity with rules promulgated by the State Forester.

(3) All trucks driven over roads through forestland, excepting county roads and state highways, shall be equipped with fire-fighting tools and equipment that are in conformity with rules promulgated by the State Forester.

(4) For purposes of this section, the rules promulgated by the State Forester:

(a) Shall prescribe such type and number of tools and equipment for extinguishing fires as reasonably are necessary to suppress fires, and the manner of storing such tools when not in use.

(b) May provide for the use of alternate methods, tools and equipment.

(5) The tools and equipment prescribed by these rules shall be kept in constant repair and readiness for instant use. [Formerly 477.186; 1967 c.429 §20; 1997 c.274 §27]

Source: Section 477.655 — Fire-fighting tools and equipment at operation area and on trucks; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 476.055 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 476 / Section 476.055
476.055 State Fire Marshal Fund
Status: in_force

(1) All moneys received by the Department of the State Fire Marshal shall be paid into the State Treasury, and shall be placed by the State Treasurer to the credit of the State Fire Marshal Fund, except those moneys received and accounted for under the provisions of ORS 279A.290 (Miscellaneous receipts accounts) and 476.565 (State Fire Marshal Mobilization Fund) .

(2) Except as otherwise provided by this section, moneys in the State Fire Marshal Fund shall be available and constitute a continuing appropriation for the payment of any expense of the department and for the payment of expenses of the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training and the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training relating to training programs concerning fire services and accreditation of fire service professionals. The Department of the State Fire Marshal shall keep on file an itemized statement of all expenses incurred by the department and shall approve all disbursements as submitted for payment. Administrative expenditures made from the State Fire Marshal Fund shall not exceed a reasonable amount for the services performed. [1953 c.93 §2; 1953 c.199 §2; 1965 c.602 §2; 1967 c.359 §694; 1967 c.417 §2; 1973 c.832 §§6,6a; 1977 c.104 §1; 1985 c.118 §4; 1987 c.414 §157; 1993 c.185 §27; 1993 c.186 §6; 1997 c.853 §41; 2003 c.794 §298; 2021 c.539 §124; 2023 c.602 §52]

Source: Section 476.055 — State Fire Marshal Fund; uses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors476.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.930 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.930
478.930 Violation of code
Status: in_force

When a district has adopted a fire prevention code as provided in ORS 478.910 (Adoption of fire prevention code) :

(1) No person shall violate the provisions of the code or fail to remove hazards found on inspection within the time set by the inspecting officer, after written notice to either the owner or occupant of the premises.

(2) No person shall burn waste materials or trash in an unguarded manner without a permit, when a permit is required by the district code or this chapter. [Amended by 1969 c.667 §56]

Source: Section 478.930 — Violation of code; failure to remove hazards; burning waste without permit prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.155 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.155
477.155 Wildfire response capacity
Status: in_force

The State Forestry Department:

(1) Shall consult and coordinate with federal agencies, private stakeholders and other state agencies to determine the adequacy of state, federal and private wildfire response capacity. The department shall act to facilitate wildfire prevention and wildfire response communication and coordination between federal, state, local and private entities.

(2) Shall increase the department’s wildfire readiness and response capacity, including increases to fire suppression response personnel, aviation assets and necessary administrative support personnel, to the extent the department receives funding for the increase.

(3) Shall, to the extent practicable, seek to leverage state moneys to obtain an increase in federal wildfire resources available to Oregon for effective initial response purposes.

(4) Shall consult with the Department of the State Fire Marshal and with local fire defense board chiefs to assess the adequacy of available mutual aid to provide wildfire response on wildland-urban interface lands and to identify means for providing additional resources from the state or other entities to enhance wildfire response capacity on wildland-urban interface lands.

(5) Shall continually identify workforce development needs associated with wildfire risk mitigation and wildfire response and develop funding proposals for meeting those needs on a sustained basis. The identified workforce development needs must align with wildfire risk to provide an adequate level of wildfire protection, as described in ORS 477.062 (Inadequately protected forestland declared nuisance) .

(6) May enter into cooperative agreements or contracts with a local or private entity for the purpose of assisting the entity to organize for purposes of wildfire risk mitigation or wildfire response, including, but not limited to, facilitating wildfire training and the acquisition of firefighting equipment for the entity and assisting with payment for liability insurance and other administrative expenses of the entity associated with wildfire risk mitigation or wildfire response. [2021 c.592 §30a]

Note: See note under 477.150 (Smoke detection cameras) .

Source: Section 477.155 — Wildfire response capacity , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.565 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.565
480.565 Chief and deputy inspectors
Status: in_force

The Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services shall:

(1) Appoint a chief boiler inspector who has had practical experience in the construction, maintenance, repair or operation of high pressure boilers and pressure vessels as a mechanical engineer, practical steam operating engineer, boilermaker or boiler inspector and who:

(a) Has passed a written examination, which shall be confined to questions the answers to which will aid in determining the fitness and competency of the applicant to inspect boilers and pressure vessels; or

(b) Holds a certificate of competency as an inspector of boilers and pressure vessels issued by a state that has standards of examination equal to those of the State of Oregon and that recognizes certificates of competency issued by the State of Oregon, and has passed an examination that assesses the applicant’s knowledge of ORS 480.510 (Short title) to 480.670 (Civil penalty for Boiler and Pressure Vessel Law violations) and the rules adopted thereunder.

(2) Appoint deputy inspectors who shall be responsible to the chief boiler inspector and who shall have qualified as provided in subsection (1) of this section, except that less practical experience shall be required.

(3) Issue a certificate of competency as a special inspector to any individual who qualifies as provided in subsection (1) of this section, except that no more practical experience shall be required than is required of a deputy inspector, and who is continuously employed by:

(a) An insurer who may and does write policies of boiler and pressure vessel insurance in Oregon; or

(b) Any person operating pressure vessels in this state whose service, personnel, equipment and supervision meet the requirements prescribed by the Board of Boiler Rules. [1961 c.485 §12; 1969 c.582 §11; 1971 c.753 §61; 1991 c.518 §13; 2007 c.71 §165]

Source: Section 480.565 — Chief and deputy inspectors; special inspectors , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.558 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.558
477.558 Functions for advisory committee
Status: in_force

The advisory committee created under ORS 477.556 (Advisory committee) shall:

(1) Advise the State Forestry Department in collecting information about prescribed burning operations; and

(2) Advise the State Forestry Department on the collection, analysis and distribution of information required under ORS 477.554 (Program establishment) . [1989 c.920 §5; 2007 c.213 §3]

Source: Section 477.558 — Functions for advisory committee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.160 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.160
480.160 Local regulation and effect of state law
Status: in_force

(1) Nothing in ORS 480.111 (Definitions for ORS 480.111 to 480.165) to 480.165 (Civil penalty for fireworks law violations) , nor in any permit issued thereunder, shall authorize the manufacture, sale, use or discharge of fireworks in any city, county or fire protection district in which such manufacture, sale, use or discharge is otherwise prohibited by law or municipal ordinance; nor shall any city, county or fire protection district authorize the sale or use of any fireworks prohibited by the provisions of ORS 480.111 (Definitions for ORS 480.111 to 480.165) to 480.165 (Civil penalty for fireworks law violations) .

(2) For the purposes of enforcing ORS 480.111 (Definitions for ORS 480.111 to 480.165) to 480.165 (Civil penalty for fireworks law violations) in an area exempt under ORS 476.030 (Powers and duties of marshal and deputies generally) (3) within a rural fire protection district, the fire marshal, if there is one, or the fire chief of that rural fire protection district has the same enforcement authority as the State Fire Marshal.

(3) No person shall deliver or cause to be delivered into any county, municipality or rural fire protection district for the purpose of sale to individual members of the general public for personal use any consumer fireworks if the county, municipality or rural fire protection district by law or ordinance has declared that the sale or use of the consumer fireworks is prohibited.

(4) The manufacture, sale, use or discharge of fireworks may be regulated by the governing body of a rural fire protection district, subject to the following conditions:

(a) The regulation must be by ordinance adopted by the governing body of the district, after public notice and hearing, not later than January 1 of any calendar year in which regulation is to be operative.

(b) The regulation shall not be operative within the boundaries of any city that regulates such matters by city ordinance.

(c) The regulation shall not prohibit the manufacture, sale, use or discharge of fireworks the manufacture, sale, use or discharge of which is authorized by ORS 480.111 (Definitions for ORS 480.111 to 480.165) to 480.165 (Civil penalty for fireworks law violations) .

(d) The regulation may not limit sales to less than five days per calendar year, and must include the five consecutive day period beginning June 30. [Amended by 1983 c.788 §7; 1985 c.789 §4; 1993 c.185 §32; 2013 c.24 §9]

Source: Section 480.160 — Local regulation and effect of state law; local enforcement authority , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.067 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.067
477.067 Notice of fire
Status: in_force

For the purpose of ORS 477.066 (Duty of owner and operator to abate fire) , notification to the owner or operator of the forestland, is considered sufficient notification to the owner of the existence of a fire. [Formerly 477.042 and then 477.071]

Source: Section 477.067 — Notice of fire , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.025 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.025
477.025 Variability of wildland-urban interface fire protection problems
Status: in_force

The Legislative Assembly recognizes that the wildland-urban interface in Oregon varies by condition, situation, fire hazard and risk, that different wildland-urban interface fire protection problems exist across the state because of this variability, and that these different problems necessitate varied fire prevention and protection practices. [1997 c.429 §9; 2021 c.592 §32]

Source: Section 477.025 — Variability of wildland-urban interface fire protection problems , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.460 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.460
477.460 Duties of administrator
Status: in_force

(1) The administrator shall act as secretary of the Emergency Fire Cost Committee and shall carry out the provisions of ORS 477.440 (Emergency Fire Cost Committee) to 477.460 (Duties of administrator) in such manner as the committee shall direct. The salary and other expenses of the administrator shall be paid from the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund as are other expenses of the committee.

(2) Members of the committee are entitled to compensation and expenses as provided in ORS 292.495 (Compensation and expenses of members of state boards and commissions) . [Formerly 527.292; 1969 c.314 §51; 1981 c.321 §6; 1987 c.919 §22]

Source: Section 477.460 — Duties of administrator; compensation and expenses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.231 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.231
478.231 Election laws applicable
Status: in_force

(1) ORS chapter 255 governs the following:

(a) The nomination and election of directors.

(b) The conduct of district elections.

(2) The electors of a district may exercise the powers of the initiative and referendum regarding a district measure, in accordance with ORS 255.135 (Prospective petition) to 255.205 (Retention of petition materials) . [1983 c.350 §289]

Source: Section 478.231 — Election laws applicable , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.615 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.615
477.615 Additional water supply and equipment
Status: in_force

(1) During a fire season inside or within one-eighth of one mile of a forest protection district, when, in the judgment of the forester, an operation is of sufficient size or so planned and operated as to justify additional protection from fire, the owner or operator, when so directed by the forester in writing, shall provide, within such time as is specified in the writing, additional water supply and equipment for use in fire suppression that is in conformity with rules promulgated by the State Forester.

(2) All such equipment shall be kept in constant readiness for instant use in fighting forest fires. However, nothing in this section prohibits the use of the equipment by the operator for sprinkling roads or other uses within the operation area.

(3) Rules promulgated under this section shall prescribe such water supply and equipment as reasonably are necessary to provide immediate and effective suppression of fires on forestland and may provide for the use of alternate methods and equipment. [Formerly 477.212; 1967 c.429 §17; 1995 c.605 §2; 1997 c.274 §20]

Source: Section 477.615 — Additional water supply and equipment; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 478.920 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 478 / Section 478.920
478.920 Scope of fire prevention code
Status: in_force

The fire prevention code may provide reasonable regulations relating to:

(1) Prevention and suppression of fires.

(2) Mobile fire apparatus means of approach to buildings and structures.

(3) Providing fire-fighting water supplies and fire detection and suppression apparatus adequate for the protection of buildings and structures.

(4) Storage and use of combustibles and explosives.

(5) Construction, maintenance and regulation of fire escapes.

(6) Means and adequacy of exit in case of fires and the regulation and maintenance of fire and life safety features in factories, asylums, hospitals, churches, schools, halls, theaters, amphitheaters, all buildings, except private residences, which are occupied for sleeping purposes, and all other places where large numbers of persons work, live or congregate from time to time for any purpose.

(7) Requiring the issuance of permits by the fire chief of the district before burning trash or waste materials.

(8) Providing for the inspection of premises by officers designated by the board of directors, and requiring the removal of fire hazards found on premises at such inspections. [Amended by 1969 c.667 §55; 1977 c.292 §1]

Source: Section 478.920 — Scope of fire prevention code , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors478.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.502 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.502
477.502 Landscape Resiliency Fund
Status: in_force

The Landscape Resiliency Fund is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. Interest earned by the Landscape Resiliency Fund shall be credited to the fund. The fund shall consist of all moneys placed in the fund as provided by law and any gifts, grants, donations, endowments or bequests from any public or private source. Moneys in the fund are continuously appropriated to the State Forestry Department for landscape resilience projects and implementing ORS 477.503 (Reduction of wildfire risk) . [2023 c.611 §4]

Note: 477.502 (Landscape Resiliency Fund) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 477 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 477.502 — Landscape Resiliency Fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.123 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.123
480.123 Use for repelling birds or other animals
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section, “responsible charge” means ownership, a leasehold, management or authority to act as the representative of an owner, lessee or manager.

(2) The State Fire Marshal may adopt rules for the use of fireworks to repel birds or other animals.

(3) A person having responsible charge of a property may apply to the State Fire Marshal for a permit to use and explode fireworks to repel birds or other animals from the property. If the State Fire Marshal finds that the proposed use conforms with state and federal law and State Fire Marshal rules, the State Fire Marshal shall issue the permit.

(4) Notwithstanding ORS 480.120 (Sale, possession and use of fireworks prohibited) , a person having responsible charge of a property and holding a permit issued under subsection (3) of this section may purchase, possess, use and explode fireworks for the purpose of repelling birds or other animals from the property. Properties for which permits to use and explode fireworks are issued under this section must be:

(a) Farms;

(b) Forests;

(c) Waste and recycling facilities;

(d) Airports;

(e) Golf courses;

(f) Properties used for the production of commercially valuable fish or seafood;

(g) Estuaries;

(h) Properties located outside of an incorporated city; or

(i) Other types of properties identified by the State Fire Marshal by rule.

(5) Fireworks for use as described in this section must be purchased from a person possessing a wholesaler license issued under ORS 480.111 (Definitions for ORS 480.111 to 480.165) to 480.165 (Civil penalty for fireworks law violations) .

(6) The permit holder shall store fireworks obtained under this section in accordance with any fire codes that the State Fire Marshal adopts by rule to ensure safe storage of those fireworks. When adopting storage rules, the State Fire Marshal shall consider any relevant standards for hazardous materials storage established by a national association for fire protection. A local government has concurrent authority with the State Fire Marshal to enforce State Fire Marshal storage requirements within the jurisdiction of the local government.

(7) The State Fire Marshal may revoke a permit issued under this section if the State Fire Marshal determines that the permit holder has violated state or federal law regarding fireworks, rules adopted by the State Fire Marshal or the terms and conditions of the permit.

(8) This section does not require a federal or state agency to obtain a permit under this section for activities carried out by the agency under ORS 480.124 (Use for control of predatory animals allowed) . [2015 c.57 §2]

Source: Section 480.123 — Use for repelling birds or other animals; permit; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.230 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.230
480.230 Application for certificate of possession
Status: in_force

A person desiring a certificate of possession shall apply on application forms provided by the Department of the State Fire Marshal. The forms shall be completed in full and shall include:

(1) The applicant’s legal name, current address and current telephone number;

(2) The applicant’s date of birth;

(3) A statement by the applicant that the applicant is eligible for a certificate of possession under ORS 480.225 (Eligibility for certificate of possession) ;

(4) The number of the certificate of registration issued under ORS 480.244 (Storage facility approval) for the explosives magazine where the applicant intends to store the explosives;

(5) Any other information that the issuing authority may require to readily identify the applicant;

(6) A certification, signed and dated by the applicant, that the information contained in the application is true; and

(7) A nonrefundable application fee of $50 for a three-year certificate. [1971 c.518 §7; 1983 c.100 §2; 1999 c.980 §6; 2021 c.539 §140]

Source: Section 480.230 — Application for certificate of possession; fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.615 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.615
480.615 Appeals
Status: in_force

(1) The Board of Boiler Rules shall hear the appeal of an appellant who:

(a) Has filed a timely written request and:

(A) Has received notice that a restraining order or injunction will be sought;

(B) Has received notice that an installation permit or operating permit will be suspended or revoked; or

(C) Is affected by either of such notices; or

(b) Has filed a written request and who has reason to desire a change in the minimum safety standards or the rules.

(2) The board shall set the time and place for hearing and give the appellant 10 days’ written notice.

(3) The board shall hear an appeal within three months after receipt of the request. However, if an immediate menace to health or safety is involved, the board shall hear the appeal within 20 days after receipt of the request.

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Two or more appeals may be consolidated for hearing, if based upon substantially the same facts.

(b) The board and the appellant may subpoena witnesses, who shall receive the same compensation and mileage pay as circuit court witnesses.

(c) The board shall keep a written or recorded record. [1961 c.485 §26; 1983 c.676 §19; 1991 c.518 §10; 2007 c.71 §167; 2007 c.487 §12; 2009 c.696 §20]

Source: Section 480.615 — Appeals , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 479.155 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 479 / Section 479.155
479.155 Plan of proposed construction or alteration
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section, “director” means the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services.

(2) Prior to construction or alteration of a hospital, public building as defined in ORS 479.168 (Definitions for ORS 479.168 to 479.190 and 479.990) , public garage, dry cleaning establishment, apartment house, hotel, bulk oil storage plant, school, institution as defined in ORS 479.210 (“Institution” defined for ORS 479.215 to 479.220) , or any other building or structure regulated by the State Fire Marshal for use and occupancy or requiring approval by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to statute, the owner shall submit to the director two copies of a plan or sketch showing the location of the building or structure with relation to the premises, distances, lengths and details of construction as the director shall require. A filing is not required with respect to any such building or structure in any area exempted by order of the State Fire Marshal pursuant to ORS 476.030 (Powers and duties of marshal and deputies generally) . Approval of the plans or sketches by the director is considered approval by the State Fire Marshal and satisfies any statutory provision requiring approval by the State Fire Marshal.

(3) A declaration of the value of the proposed construction or alteration and the appropriate fee required under ORS 455.210 (Fees) must accompany the plan or sketch. However, the determination of value or valuation shall be made by the director.

(4) The director shall be furnished with not fewer than two accurate copies of the plan or sketch and details for the purpose of ascertaining compliance with applicable fire prevention and protection statutes and regulations. The plan examiner shall indicate on the plan or sketch and in writing approval or disapproval and conditions for approval of the construction or alteration. One copy of the plan or sketch shall be retained by the director and one copy shall be returned to the applicant. No building or structure referred to in subsection (2) of this section shall be erected or constructed without approval by the director if the building or structure requires approval by the State Fire Marshal. After such approval or issuance of the required permit, construction or alteration must comply with the plan or sketch in all respects unless modified by subsequent permit or order of the director.

(5) The approval of a plan or sketch may not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any statute or regulation or the applicable ordinances and regulations of any governmental subdivision of the state. The approval of a plan or sketch may not be construed as an approval for noncompliance with fire marshal regulations. Any condition upon approval or disapproval is an order subject to appeal as other orders are appealable.

(6) Notwithstanding the requirements of subsections (2) and (4) of this section, the State Fire Marshal may, by rule, require an additional copy of a plan or sketch for local government use and may specify that plans or sketches submitted for review be drawn clearly and to scale. [1965 c.602 §14; 1967 c.417 §20; 1973 c.834 §33; 1977 c.821 §4; 1987 c.414 §158; 1993 c.744 §116; 1999 c.1082 §13; 2005 c.22 §364]

Source: Section 479.155 — Plan of proposed construction or alteration; declaration of value; approval of plan; effect of approval; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors479.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 477.250 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 477 / Section 477.250
477.250 Notice of budget meeting
Status: in_force

(1) Not more than four weeks preceding each budget meeting, the forester shall cause notice of such meeting to be published once a week for two consecutive weeks in one or more newspapers published in or having general circulation in each of the counties in the forest protection district and in such other media of communication as the forester finds advisable. However, the final publication shall be made at least one week prior to the date of the meeting. The notice shall state the time and place where the tentative budget for the district may be inspected and shall state the time and place of the meeting.

(2) Whenever the forester determines that any privately owned land should be subject to assessment for forest protection and such land was not subject to the assessment during the preceding year, the forester shall give written notice by mail of the determination to each owner of such land not later than March 1 of the year the assessment is to be made. The notice shall inform the owner of the acreage and tax lot number of the lands to be assessed and the name and address of the nearest representative of the forester the owner may contact if review of the proposed assessment is desired. The notice shall also inform the owner of the procedure for hearing and appeals prescribed in ORS 477.205 (Definitions for ORS 477.205 to 477.281) to 477.281 (Limitation on obligation of landowner for fire protection) . [Formerly 477.045; 1979 c.276 §1; 1999 c.355 §5]

Source: Section 477.250 — Notice of budget meeting; notice of proposed assessment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors477.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 480.630 — OR Code / Title 38 / Chapter 480 / Section 480.630
480.630 Licensing of boiler contractors and persons installing, altering or repairing boilers or pressure vessels
Status: in_force

(1) A person engaging in the business of installing, repairing or altering boilers or pressure vessels must possess a boiler contractor license issued by the Department of Consumer and Business Services.

(2) A person who installs, repairs or alters boilers or pressure vessels as the employee or agent of a business engaged in the installation, repair or alteration of boilers or pressure vessels must possess an employee or agent license issued by the department.

(3) The chief boiler inspector may conduct examinations for licensing an employee or agent of a business to establish the competency of the applicant.

(4) Upon payment of the applicable application fee, the department shall issue a license to an applicant who qualifies as provided in rules adopted under ORS 455.117 (Adoption of rules governing licensing, certification or registration) by the Board of Boiler Rules. Upon payment of the applicable renewal application fee, the department shall renew the license of a person who complies with ORS 480.510 (Short title) to 480.670 (Civil penalty for Boiler and Pressure Vessel Law violations) and the rules adopted by the board under ORS 455.117 (Adoption of rules governing licensing, certification or registration) or 480.545 (Rules) . The fee to apply for or renew a license is:

(a) $27.50 per year for an employee or agent license.

(b) $165 per year for a boiler contractor license.

(5) A person required to be licensed under this section may not install, alter or repair a boiler or pressure vessel unless an installation permit is first secured from the department. The department shall issue permits only to persons possessing a valid boiler contractor license or as provided by the department by rule.

(6) If an emergency exists, a permit under subsection (5) of this section is not required in advance for boiler or pressure vessel installations or repair, provided that an application accompanied by the appropriate fee for the permit is submitted to the department within five days after the commencing of the boiler or pressure vessel work.

(7) The license and examination requirements of this section and ORS 480.632 (Employment of unlicensed worker prohibited) do not apply when a person is brought in from out of state to repair or alter a boiler or pressure vessel utilizing special tools or a special process for which that person is uniquely qualified. The activity shall be limited solely to the special process and the person performing the work shall have qualifications that meet or exceed license standards as determined by the chief boiler inspector. The chief boiler inspector shall be notified prior to performance of any work under this subsection.

(8) If a license issued under subsection (4) of this section is of a class that authorizes a person to perform work equivalent to that performed by pressure vessel installers, building service mechanics, boilermakers or pressure piping mechanics, the person must comply with continuing education requirements. [1973 c.830 §4; 1983 c.676 §20; 1987 c.414 §36; 1991 c.201 §5; 2001 c.678 §3; 2005 c.758 §36; 2007 c.71 §168; 2007 c.487 §§13,13a; 2009 c.696 §21]

Source: Section 480.630 — Licensing of boiler contractors and persons installing, altering or repairing boilers or pressure vessels; installation permits; fees; continuing education , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors480.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).