ORS § 273.365 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.365
273.365 When refunds not available
Status: in_force

(1) A refund is not available under ORS 273.356 (Definitions for ORS 273.356 to 273.375) to 273.375 (Acquisition by state of applicant’s interest) to any grantee who received from the State Land Board a refund or other settlement with respect to such lands before June 19, 1967, or who may be holding title originally procured or subsequently conveyed by false swearing or fraudulent representation.

(2) Each refund under ORS 273.360 (Applicant to relinquish claim) shall be paid to the grantee out of the revenues of the Common School Fund. [1967 c.422 §§3,4]

Source: Section 273.365 — When refunds not available; source of refunds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.510 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.510
271.510 Definition of “industrial facility” for ORS 271.510 to 271.540
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 271.510 (Definition of “industrial facility” for ORS 271.510 to 271.540) to 271.540 (County or city operation of industrial facility) , “industrial facility” means any land, any building or other improvement, and all real and personal properties, including, but not limited to, machinery and equipment deemed necessary in connection therewith, whether or not now in existence, which shall be suitable for use for industrial, commercial, manufacturing, research and development or warehousing purposes, but shall not include port facilities, railroads or facilities for any purposes or enterprises which are subject to regulation by the Public Utility Commission of Oregon. [1965 c.553 §2; 1981 c.787 §39; 1983 c.459 §13; 1985 c.541 §3]

Source: Section 271.510 — Definition of “industrial facility” for ORS 271.510 to 271.540 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.245 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.245
273.245 Asset management plan
Status: in_force

Not later than January 1, 1996, the State Land Board shall adopt an asset management plan in accordance with this section to guide management and disposition of real estate under the board’s jurisdiction. The Department of State Lands shall provide a report to each odd-numbered year regular session of the Legislative Assembly on the progress of implementing the asset management plan. The asset management plan required by this section shall provide a schedule for disposition of state lands when the proper disposition, as determined, involves the sale, exchange or transfer of management responsibility from the Department of State Lands to other entities. [1995 c.589 §7; 2011 c.545 §35]

Source: Section 273.245 — Asset management plan; schedule for disposition , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.505 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.505
273.505 Object of ORS 273.511
Status: in_force

The object of ORS 273.511 (Acquisition of submersible and swamp lands) is to ascertain and determine the title of the State of Oregon to the beds of shallow and dry lakes and the lands around lakes exposed to reliction or otherwise. [1967 c.421 §76]

Source: Section 273.505 — Object of ORS 273.511 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 270.135 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 270 / Section 270.135
270.135 Decision of state agency on proposal for sale of property
Status: in_force

The decision of the state agency on the question of the most advantageous proposal for real property to be sold, shall be final and conclusive, and shall not be subject to review by any court. [1991 c.816 §11; 2009 c.481 §1]

Source: Section 270.135 — Decision of state agency on proposal for sale of property , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors270.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 272.030 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 272 / Section 272.030
272.030 Acquisition of land for federal buildings
Status: in_force

Consent is given to the United States to acquire lands for the purpose of erecting thereon any needful public buildings, under authority of any Act of Congress. The United States may enter upon and occupy such lands which may be purchased or otherwise acquired, and shall have the right of exclusive jurisdiction over the lands, subject to ORS 272.015 (Service of process) . [Amended by 1967 c.421 §183]

Source: Section 272.030 — Acquisition of land for federal buildings , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors272.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.298 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.298
275.298 Sale of minerals or mineral rights
Status: reserved

(1) In any sale hereafter made under ORS 275.110 (Order to sell certain county lands) to 275.250 (Notice to county assessor of sale or resale) of minerals or mineral rights heretofore reserved to a county where such minerals or mineral rights were acquired by a county by foreclosure of delinquent tax liens, the holder of an interest less than the fee in the same lands where the mineral rights are located shall have the right to purchase such minerals or mineral rights interest by depositing with the sheriff within 60 days from date of sale not less than the high amount bid for the minerals or mineral rights by a third person. If no sale was made at the offering, then such person shall have the right to purchase at whatever price the governing body of the county deems reasonable.

(2) Unless the purchaser at any sale is the owner of some interest less than the fee, the execution of a deed shall be postponed for 60 days from the date of sale in order to give the party granted preferential right under subsection (1) of this section, or the assignee of the party, the right to exercise the preference in the manner set forth in subsection (1) of this section.

(3) The provisions of this section shall not be applicable to the sale of mineral rights on or under any land suitable for the commercial production or development of timber. [1955 c.370 §§1,2,3; 2005 c.243 §22]

Source: Section 275.298 — Sale of minerals or mineral rights; preferential right of holder of interest less than fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.099 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.099
273.099 Property transaction instruments to be maintained with department
Status: in_force

Unless otherwise provided by law, all deeds and conveyances belonging to the state must be documented in the office of the Department of State Lands. Upon the sale, acquisition or exchange of any real property belonging to the state, an electronic copy of the instrument that conveys the property must be filed with the department by the officer or agency in charge of the sale, acquisition or exchange. [1993 c.98 §4; 2015 c.105 §1]

Source: Section 273.099 — Property transaction instruments to be maintained with department , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.460 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.460
274.460 Settler’s and riparian owner’s preferential right to purchase land within meander lines
Status: in_force

All persons qualified to become entrymen and to secure land patents under the homestead laws of the United States and who prior to January 1, 1921, in good faith settled upon lands within the meander lines of lakes returned as navigable by the United States surveys and who, on January 1, 1921, by reason of settlement, cultivation and improvements on any such lands would be entitled to patent from the United States if such lands were open or subject to homestead entry are given a preference right to purchase from the State of Oregon such lands so settled upon by them, not exceeding 160 acres for any one person, upon such terms and at such prices and within such times as shall be fixed by the Department of State Lands. However, owners of the upland bordering upon such ordinary high water mark have a preference right to purchase, at the best price bid, state lands described in ORS 274.430 (State ownership of meandered lakes) and riparian to their lands, and not exceeding 160 acres, in addition to the lands granted them by ORS 274.430 (State ownership of meandered lakes) and 274.440 (Acquisition of future rights to meandered lakes denied) . [Amended by 1967 c.421 §135]

Source: Section 274.460 — Settler’s and riparian owner’s preferential right to purchase land within meander lines , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.720 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.720
274.720 Effect of ORS 274.705 to 274.860 on power to make other leases and on jurisdiction of agencies other than department
Status: in_force

ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) shall not:

(1) Affect the power of the Department of State Lands to lease mineral rights, including oil, gas and sulfur underlying state lands other than lands subject to ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) .

(2) Affect the power of the department to lease mineral rights, other than oil, gas and sulfur underlying lands subject to ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) .

(3) Affect any oil, gas and mineral lease issued before August 9, 1961, by any agency, board or commission of the State of Oregon.

(4) Deprive this state or any agency or instrumentality thereof of its jurisdiction over matters affecting the public health and safety, including but not limited to the control of air and water pollution. [1961 c.619 §§36, 37; 1967 c.421 §161]

Source: Section 274.720 — Effect of ORS 274.705 to 274.860 on power to make other leases and on jurisdiction of agencies other than department , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.712 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.712
274.712 Limitations on leasing submerged and submersible lands within territorial sea
Status: in_force

(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) or 520.240 (Voluntary unitization of operations by lessees of tidal or submersible lands) , the Department of State Lands is prohibited from leasing any of the submerged and submersible lands within the territorial sea for:

(a) The exploration, development or production of oil, gas or sulfur in the territorial sea; or

(b) Activities in furtherance of the exploration, development or production of oil, gas or sulfur within federal waters adjacent to the territorial sea.

(2) The provisions of subsection (1) of this section do not apply:

(a) To exploration for scientific or academic research purposes, or geologic survey activities of the State Department of Geology and Mineral Industries.

(b) In the event the Governor determines that an oil embargo substantially affects the supply of oil to the United States.

(3) Any exploration for oil, gas or sulfur in the territorial sea allowed under ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) by the State Land Board or the Department of State Lands must conform to standards of the Oregon Ocean Resources Management Program established under ORS 196.405 (Definitions for ORS 196.405 to 196.515) to 196.515 (Short title) .

(4) Nothing in this section is intended to impair or supersede any conflicting federal law applicable within the territorial sea. [2010 c.11 §1; 2019 c.14 §4]

Source: Section 274.712 — Limitations on leasing submerged and submersible lands within territorial sea , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.388 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.388
274.388 Submerged Lands Enhancement Fund
Status: in_force

(1) The Submerged Lands Enhancement Fund is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. Interest earned by the Submerged Lands Enhancement Fund shall be credited to the fund. Moneys in the fund are continuously appropriated to the Department of State Lands for the purposes specified in this section.

(2) Notwithstanding ORS 273.105 (Distributable Income Account) , the fund shall consist of:

(a) No more than 20 percent of the moneys collected by the department per biennium pursuant to the department’s granting of leases, easements, registrations and other permissions to use or occupy state-owned submerged or submersible lands; and

(b) Moneys collected by the department under subsection (5) of this section.

(3) Moneys in the Submerged Lands Enhancement Fund may be used to pay the expenses of the department associated with management and enhancement activities on state-owned submerged and submersible lands, including but not limited to:

(a) Removal, salvage, storage and disposal of abandoned or derelict structures under ORS 274.379 (Authority to seize abandoned structure or derelict structure) ;

(b) Removal and disposal of marine debris;

(c) Assistance with the salvage, towing, storage and disposal of abandoned or derelict vessels pursuant to ORS 830.908 (Definitions for ORS 830.908 to 830.948) to 830.948 (Salvaged Vessel Subaccount) ; and

(d) Engagement in activities to improve water quality, watershed enhancement and fish and wildlife habitat on submerged and submersible lands.

(4) The department may use moneys in the fund to provide funding to a state agency, county, city, water improvement district, watershed council, park and recreation district, port district, federally recognized Indian tribe or nonprofit organization to assist the department in completing any of the management and enhancement activities provided for in subsection (3) of this section.

(5) The department may recover payments made from the fund from an owner of a structure or vessel who is liable for the costs of removal, salvage, storage and disposal of a structure under ORS 274.382 (Liability for costs of removal, salvage, storage and disposal) . The department shall deposit all moneys recovered under this subsection into the fund. [2015 c.715 §4]

BEDS OF STREAMS, LAKES AND BAYS

Source: Section 274.388 — Submerged Lands Enhancement Fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.376 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.376
274.376 Definitions for ORS 274.376 to 274.388
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 274.376 (Definitions for ORS 274.376 to 274.388) to 274.388 (Submerged Lands Enhancement Fund) :

(1) “Abandoned structure” means a structure that has been left without authorization on, under or over state-owned submerged or submersible lands.

(2) “Abandoned vessel” has the meaning given that term in ORS 830.908 (Definitions for ORS 830.908 to 830.948) .

(3) “Derelict structure” means a structure that is on, under or over state-owned submerged or submersible lands and that is:

(a) Sunk or in imminent danger of sinking due to its dilapidated condition;

(b) Obstructing a waterway;

(c) Endangering life or property; or

(d) In dilapidated condition such that it is in danger of becoming an environmental hazard as evidenced by instances of leaking fuel, sewage or other pollutants.

(4) “Derelict vessel” has the meaning given that term in ORS 830.908 (Definitions for ORS 830.908 to 830.948) .

(5) “Marine debris” means any manufactured or processed solid material that:

(a) Persists in the marine environment; and

(b) Is disposed of or abandoned, either with intention or unintentionally, in any waters of which the submersible or submerged lands belong to the State of Oregon.

(6) “Owner” means a person who has a property interest in a structure or vessel. [2015 c.715 §1]

Source: Section 274.376 — Definitions for ORS 274.376 to 274.388 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.135 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.135
273.135 Agreements with other agencies for special services
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of State Lands may enter into written agreements with any governmental agency for the performance of specialized, technical, professional, administrative or other services and for the furnishing of facilities and materials to carry out provisions of law applicable to the department. The activities and programs performed under such agreements remain subject to supervision and control by the department.

(2) All expenses incurred by a governmental agency in performing services and furnishing facilities and materials under an agreement entered into pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall be paid by the department to such performing agency in the manner other claims are paid. Payments by the department pursuant to this section and ORS 273.141 (Nature of services to be performed by certain other agencies) shall be made from moneys available to the department for the payment of its expenses. Before making any deposit to the credit of the Common School Fund, or any other fund or account managed by the department, the department may first deduct all expenses incurred pursuant to agreements entered into under this section and ORS 273.141 (Nature of services to be performed by certain other agencies) .

(3) Any state agency authorized under ORS 283.110 (Furnishing by state agency to another state agency of services, facilities and materials) to furnish services, facilities and materials to other state agencies may in like manner furnish such services, facilities and materials to the department under written agreement pursuant to this section. All moneys received by a state agency in payment for services, facilities and materials rendered under a written agreement with the department may be paid, deposited and credited in like manner as provided in ORS 283.110 (Furnishing by state agency to another state agency of services, facilities and materials) (2), or credited to the account from which the cost of the services, facilities and materials was originally paid. [Formerly 273.585; 1995 c.589 §3]

Source: Section 273.135 — Agreements with other agencies for special services; costs; interagency services , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.820 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.820
274.820 Water contamination or pollution
Status: in_force

(1) Avoidable pollution or avoidable contamination of the ocean and of the waters covering lands subject to ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) , avoidable pollution or avoidable contamination of the beaches or land underlying the ocean or waters covering lands subject to ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) , or any substantial impairment of and interference with the enjoyment and use thereof, including but not limited to bathing, boating, fishing, fish and wildlife production, and navigation, shall be prohibited, and the lessee shall exercise a high degree of care to provide that no oil, tar, residuary product of oil or any refuse of any kind from any well or works shall be permitted to be deposited on or pass into the waters of the ocean, any bay or inlet thereof, or any other waters covering lands subject to ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) . However, this section does not apply to the deposit on or passage into such waters of water not containing any hydrocarbons or vegetable or animal matter.

(2) For the purposes of this section, “avoidable pollution” or “avoidable contamination” means pollution or contamination arising from:

(a) The acts or omissions of the lessee or its officers, employees or agents; or

(b) Events that could have been prevented by the lessee or its officers, employees or agents through the exercise of a high degree of care. [1961 c.619 §18; 1967 c.421 §171]

Source: Section 274.820 — Water contamination or pollution , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.464 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.464
273.464 Trust lands with limited performance potential as assets of Common School Fund
Status: in_force

(1) The State Land Board may identify tracts of trust lands under the board’s jurisdiction that have limited performance potential as assets of the Common School Fund and submit to the Legislative Assembly proposals to transfer the identified tracts of trust lands to another state agency, a federal agency or a tribe.

(2) The state agency, federal agency or tribe to which identified tracts of trust lands are to be transferred may be identified by the board in the proposal authorized under subsection (1) of this section, or may be designated by the Legislative Assembly.

(3) A proposal submitted to the Legislative Assembly under this section must include an independent, third-party valuation of the property to be transferred.

(4) If the Legislative Assembly approves a transfer proposal submitted under subsection (1) of this section and appropriates funds for that purpose, or otherwise approves a financing mechanism sufficient to accomplish the transfer, the board, by and through the Department of State Lands, shall transfer lands in a manner consistent with the board’s trust responsibilities.

(5) The provisions of ORS 270.100 (Notice to department before sale of real property) , 270.110 (Disposition of property not needed for public use) , 270.130 (Publication of notice of sale) and 273.275 (Price of state lands) do not apply to the transfer of trust lands under this section.

(6) The board may adopt rules to carry out the provisions of ORS 273.462 (Definitions) to 273.464 (Trust lands with limited performance potential as assets of Common School Fund) .

(7) Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect the ability of the board or the department to dispose of trust lands in any manner otherwise provided for by law. [2017 c.693 §4]

Source: Section 273.464 — Trust lands with limited performance potential as assets of Common School Fund; identification; procedures for transfer; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.578 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.578
273.578 Plan approval
Status: in_force

(1) The Sixty-first Legislative Assembly approves the Oregon Natural Areas Plan submitted under ORS 273.576 (State Parks and Recreation Department duties) .

(2) The State Parks and Recreation Commission may review and approve or disapprove any modification to the Oregon Natural Areas Plan submitted by the State Parks and Recreation Department. [1981 c.208 §§2,3; 1983 c.786 §6; 2009 c.217 §5; 2011 c.319 §13]

Source: Section 273.578 — Plan approval; review of modifications by commission , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.940 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.940
274.940 Reservation of historically filled lands or new lands
Status: reserved

(1) Notwithstanding any contrary provision of ORS 274.905 (Definitions for ORS 274.905 to 274.940) to 274.940 (Reservation of historically filled lands or new lands) , the Department of State Lands may reserve historically filled lands or new lands from sale, transfer or lease where upon notice and hearing the department determines that the public interest requires the lands to be preserved for recreation, conservation of fish and wildlife or the development of navigation facilities.

(2) If lands are reserved from sale, transfer or lease under this section, the adjoining or opposite upland or riparian owner shall be allowed reasonable access to navigable water across the reserved historically filled lands or new lands.

(3) A determination that the public interest requires historically filled lands or new lands to be reserved under this section is not a final agency order. [1963 c.376 §7; 1967 c.421 §178; 1973 c.203 §8; 2015 c.804 §5]

Source: Section 274.940 — Reservation of historically filled lands or new lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.006 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.006
273.006 Definitions
Status: in_force

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

(1) “Board” means the State Land Board.

(2) “County recording officer” means the county clerk or other county officer carrying out ORS 205.130 (Recording duties of county clerk) to 205.220 (Recording copies of estate records) .

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

(4) “Director” means the Director of the Department of State Lands.

(5) “Land” includes water, water rights, easements of every nature and all appurtenances to land.

(6) “Material” includes gravel, rock, sand and silt, but does not include hard minerals subject to ORS 274.610 (Prohibited contracts for exploration for hard minerals) , or oil, gas and sulfur subject to ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) .

(7) “Public land” means any land or improvements thereon owned by the State of Oregon or any agency thereof.

(8) “State land” means public land controlled by the Department of State Lands.

(9) “Terminal disposition” means the permanent relinquishment by an agency of rights in real property, including, but not limited to, sale, exchange, conveyance, relinquishment of title, or donation. [1967 c.421 §2; 1967 c.616 §12; 1969 c.594 §2; 1971 c.88 §5; 1981 c.787 §44; 1991 c.217 §2; 2003 c.253 §15]

Source: Section 273.006 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.185 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.185
273.185 Director to investigate trespasses on state lands
Status: in_force

(1) The Director of the Department of State Lands shall investigate all trespasses on and damage to state lands and prosecute the same. The director shall appear before appropriate agencies of the United States in all cases involving the title or claim of the state to its granted land or lands selected in lieu thereof.

(2) Expenses incurred under this section shall be paid out of the moneys available to the Department of State Lands for the payment of its expenses. [Formerly 273.530]

Source: Section 273.185 — Director to investigate trespasses on state lands; appearance before federal agencies; expenses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.310 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.310
275.310 Partition of land in which county has acquired interest
Status: in_force

Any county which has acquired or shall acquire an undivided interest in real property by foreclosure of delinquent tax liens, shall have the benefit of the statutes of this state providing for the partition of real property owned by tenants in common. Such county may become a purchaser at any sale of such real property upon partition.

Source: Section 275.310 — Partition of land in which county has acquired interest , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.770 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.770
274.770 Prohibited drilling requirements
Status: in_force

In leasing lands subject to ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) , the Department of State Lands may not discriminate between bidders by requiring drilling from:

(1) Upland or littoral drill sites;

(2) Sites on filled land, whether contiguous or noncontiguous to the littoral lands or uplands; or

(3) Any pier, platform or other fixed or floating structure in, on or over lands subject to ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) , with respect to which this state or any other owner thereof has consented to use. [1961 c.619 §30; 1967 c.421 §168]

Source: Section 274.770 — Prohibited drilling requirements , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.027 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.027
275.027 Adverse possession of county lands
Status: in_force

The rights of any county to public lands are not extinguished by adverse possession. No title or property rights to public lands shall be acquired against the county through operation of a statute of limitations. [1981 c.153 §51]

Source: Section 275.027 — Adverse possession of county lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.735 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.735
271.735 Hearing
Status: in_force

(1) Before the acquisition of a conservation easement or highway scenic preservation easement, the state agency, county, metropolitan service district, soil and water conservation district, city, park and recreation district or county service district established under ORS 451.410 (Definitions for ORS 451.410 to 451.610) to 451.610 (Advisory committee for emergency communications system) to construct, maintain and operate service facilities in Washington or Clackamas County for the purposes specified in ORS 451.010 (Authorization to establish master plans and service districts) (1)(a) and (b) and in Washington County for the purpose specified in ORS 451.010 (Authorization to establish master plans and service districts) (5) considering acquisition of such an easement shall hold one or more public hearings on the proposal and the reasons therefor. The hearings shall be held in the community where the easement would be located and all interested persons, including representatives of other governmental agencies, shall have the right to appear and a reasonable opportunity to be heard.

(2) Notice of the hearing shall be published at least twice, once not less than 12 days and once not less than five days, prior to the hearing in a newspaper of general circulation in the community. The notice may also be published by broadcasting or telecasting generally in the community.

(3) At least 30 days prior to the hearing, the state agency shall mail notice of the hearing to the governing body of each county, city and other governmental agency having jurisdiction in the area of the proposed easements.

(4) This section does not apply to conservation easements or highway scenic preservation easements acquired pursuant to ORS 390.121 (Powers of commission) , 390.310 (Definitions for ORS 390.310 to 390.368) to 390.338 (Limitations on use of condemnation power) and 390.805 (Definitions for ORS 390.805 to 390.925) to 390.925 (Enforcement) or acquired pursuant to a metropolitan service district bond measure authorizing the acquisition of open spaces within specific areas. [1983 c.642 §9; 1985 c.160 §3; 1989 c.904 §29; 1999 c.208 §3; 2003 c.467 §3; 2005 c.368 §3; 2023 c.9 §14]

Source: Section 271.735 — Hearing; notice , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.314 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.314
275.314 Contents of application
Status: reserved

Each application presented to the governing body of the county under ORS 275.312 (Conveyance by county of reserved or excepted mineral rights) must be accompanied by evidence satisfactory to the governing body of the county showing that the applicant is the owner of the surface rights to the lands described in the application, and also by a cash deposit or an irrevocable letter of credit issued by an insured institution as defined in ORS 706.008 (Additional definitions for Bank Act) in an amount sufficient to reimburse the county for all costs of such transfer, including but not limited to the costs of investigation and legal work, which shall be paid by the applicant. The governing body of the county then shall cause an investigation to be made by qualified geologists or mining engineers in regard to the probable value of such mineral rights. If the governing body of the county finds that such rights are of little or doubtful value and that it would be in the best interests of the county to transfer such rights to the owner of the surface rights, the governing body of the county may make and enter an order declaring its intention to make such transfer and setting a time and place for hearing objections thereto. The time for the hearing shall be set not earlier than six weeks after the date of the order. [1967 c.188 §3; 1991 c.331 §52; 1997 c.631 §431; 2005 c.243 §25]

Source: Section 275.314 — Contents of application; investigation and hearing , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.740 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.740
274.740 Issuance of survey permit
Status: in_force

(1) Upon compliance of an applicant with ORS 274.735 (Application for survey permit) , the Department of State Lands may issue to the applicant a permit to conduct a geological, geophysical and seismic survey, including the taking of cores and other samples, in areas of the lands subject to ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) that are described on the permit. The department may prohibit such surveys on any area if, in consultation with the State Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, it determines that a lease, if applied for, should not be granted as to such areas. The Department of State Lands shall include in a permit conditions and payments proper to safeguard the interests of the state.

(2) Permits issued under this section may not exceed two years, and may be renewed for like periods upon application to the department and upon showing due compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

(3) The department shall require the permittee to provide the State Fish and Wildlife Commission with complete information with respect to the area or areas of proposed operations, type of exploration and a schedule showing the period or periods during which such explorations will be conducted. Such information shall be treated as confidential unless released by the permittee. [1961 c.619 §4; 1967 c.421 §164; 2003 c.253 §22]

Source: Section 274.740 — Issuance of survey permit; renewal; reports , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.586 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.586
273.586 Dedication of land as state natural area
Status: in_force

(1) A private individual or organization that is the owner of any registered natural area may voluntarily agree to dedicate that area as a state natural area by executing with the State Parks and Recreation Department an instrument of dedication. The instrument of dedication shall be effective upon its recording in the real property records of the office of the clerk of the county in which any or all of the state natural area is located.

(2) Any public agency may dedicate lands under the provisions of ORS 273.563 (Definitions for ORS 273.563 to 273.591) to 273.591 (Natural Areas Program Account) following the providing of opportunity for adequate public notice and hearing by the agency. The Oregon Transportation Commission, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission, the State Board of Forestry, the governing board of a public university listed in ORS 352.002 (Public universities) , the State Parks and Recreation Commission and the State Land Board shall, with the advice and assistance of the department, establish procedures for the dedication of state natural areas on land, the title of which is held by the State of Oregon, and which is under that agency’s management and control.

(3) The instrument of dedication shall contain any information or provisions as the private owner, organization or agency and department consider necessary to complete the dedication.

(4) Dedication of a state natural area may be terminated as follows:

(a) The dedication of a state natural area by a public agency may be terminated following the providing of opportunity for adequate public notice and hearing and a finding by that agency of an imperative and unavoidable necessity, or a finding by that agency, with the approval of the department, that the state natural area is no longer needed according to the guidelines of the Oregon Natural Areas Plan.

(b) The dedication of a state natural area by a private individual or organization may be terminated by the private individual or organization after the department is assured that there has been compliance with the procedures required by the terms of the dedication instrument.

(c) The dedication of a state natural area may be terminated by the State Parks and Recreation Commission upon the advice of the department if the area is no longer needed according to the guidelines of the plan, or has permanently lost its natural character. [1979 c.711 §7; 1983 c.786 §8; 1991 c.121 §2; 2009 c.217 §7; 2011 c.319 §15; 2015 c.767 §75]

Source: Section 273.586 — Dedication of land as state natural area; notice and hearing; termination of dedication , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.885 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.885
273.885 State prohibited from questioning certain titles
Status: in_force

The State of Oregon shall not call into question the title of any person possessing lands described in ORS 273.850 (State title to certain lands and improvements transferred to Clatsop County) (1) to (3) before January 1, 1973. The State of Oregon shall not call into question the title of any person possessing lands described in ORS 273.850 (State title to certain lands and improvements transferred to Clatsop County) (1), if an application with respect to such lands has been filed under ORS 273.850 (State title to certain lands and improvements transferred to Clatsop County) to 273.880 (Judicial review procedure) and is pending before the Board of County Commissioners of Clatsop County, or with respect to which judicial review under ORS 273.880 (Judicial review procedure) remains available or has not been finally rendered. [1969 c.495 §17]

Source: Section 273.885 — State prohibited from questioning certain titles , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.787 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.787
273.787 Release and transfer of mineral or geothermal resource rights
Status: reserved

(1) As used in this section:

(a) “Low-potential resource real property” means real property that is located:

(A) Inside an urban growth boundary; or

(B) Within an area zoned for residential use on a lot or parcel that is three acres or smaller in size.

(b) “Owner” means:

(A) The record holder of fee title interest in low-potential resource real property; or

(B) The contract purchaser of low-potential resource real property.

(2) The Department of State Lands is declared to be the state agency acting for the state in any transaction respecting mineral and geothermal resource rights in low-potential resource real property.

(3) The department may not reserve mineral and geothermal resource rights in low-potential resource real property sold or exchanged by the state, unless the department determines that a significant mineral or geothermal resource exists in the low-potential resource real property.

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) An owner may apply at any time to the department for the release and transfer of mineral and geothermal resource rights in low-potential resource real property that were reserved by the state before June 4, 2013.

(b) Upon application by the owner under this subsection, the department shall release and transfer to the owner the reserved rights to mineral and geothermal resources in low-potential resource real property within 60 days after the department receives the completed application, unless the department determines that a significant mineral or geothermal resource exists in the low-potential resource real property.

(5) The department may not:

(a) Require an owner to obtain an appraisal under this section; or

(b) Require an owner to pay the cost of an appraisal conducted at the request of the department under this section.

(6) The department may charge a reasonable fee, not to exceed $150, to process an application under this section.

(7) The department may adopt rules to implement this section. [2003 c.676 §3; 2013 c.256 §2]

Source: Section 273.787 — Release and transfer of mineral or geothermal resource rights; reservation by state; rules; fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.340 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.340
273.340 Ascertainment and procurement of indemnity lands
Status: in_force

The Department of State Lands shall ascertain the amount of indemnity lands to which the State of Oregon is entitled from the federal government and procure such lands in as large and contiguous tracts as practicable, having in view its adaptability for agriculture or its value for forestry purposes. [Formerly 273.680]

Source: Section 273.340 — Ascertainment and procurement of indemnity lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.556 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.556
273.556 South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Account
Status: in_force

(1) The South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Account is established within the Common School Fund. Except for moneys otherwise designated by statute, all moneys received by the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Commission shall be paid into the State Treasury and credited to the account. All moneys in the account are appropriated continuously and shall be used by the commission for the purpose of carrying out ORS 273.554 (South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Commission) . Interest on moneys in the account shall be credited to the Common School Fund.

(2) The commission shall keep a record of all moneys deposited in the account. The record shall indicate by separate cumulative accounts the source from which the moneys are derived and the individual activity or program against which each withdrawal is charged. [1977 c.496 §3; 2003 c.14 §136; 2005 c.528 §2]

Source: Section 273.556 — South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Account , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.520 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.520
274.520 Acceptance of deed to lake bed lands as precluding any other claim
Status: in_force

Any person who elects to take any deed from the State of Oregon under ORS 274.430 (State ownership of meandered lakes) to 274.520 (Acceptance of deed to lake bed lands as precluding any other claim) to any lands within the meander lines of a lake takes the same in lieu of any claim to any other lands within the meander line of such lake in which such deeded lands lie, and shall not thereafter maintain in any court any claim to any lands inside the meander line of such lake other than to the lands conveyed to such person by deed from the state under ORS 274.430 (State ownership of meandered lakes) to 274.520 (Acceptance of deed to lake bed lands as precluding any other claim) or which such person acquires in good faith from a grantee or purchaser from the State of Oregon under such statutes. [Amended by 1967 c.421 §141]

Source: Section 274.520 — Acceptance of deed to lake bed lands as precluding any other claim , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.725 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.725
274.725 Scope of leases and permits
Status: in_force

(1) Any interests in lands, or lands in fee simple, acquired by the Department of State Lands by purchase, donation, lease condemnation or otherwise, may be made available to any lessee of the state for the purposes contained in ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) and upon such terms as may be determined by the department.

(2) No permit or lease shall be granted to any person then in violation of any laws or rules applicable to ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) . [1961 c.619 §§32, 38,43; 1967 c.421 §162]

Source: Section 274.725 — Scope of leases and permits; persons ineligible , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.992 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.992
274.992 Civil penalties
Status: in_force

(1) Any person who violates any provision of ORS 274.040 (Sale or lease of submersible lands) , 274.873 (Proprietary authorizations for ocean renewable energy facilities) or 274.879 (Financial assurance) , any rule, order or lease adopted or issued under ORS 274.040 (Sale or lease of submersible lands) , 274.873 (Proprietary authorizations for ocean renewable energy facilities) or 274.876 (Proprietary authorization requirements) or any rule adopted under ORS 274.879 (Financial assurance) shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount to be determined by the Director of the Department of State Lands of not more than $1,000 per day of violation.

(2) Civil penalties under this section shall be imposed in the manner provided in ORS 183.745 (Civil penalty procedures) .

(3) The provisions of this section are in addition to and not in lieu of any other penalty or sanction provided by law.

(4) Any civil penalty recovered under this section for violation of ORS 274.040 (Sale or lease of submersible lands) , 274.873 (Proprietary authorizations for ocean renewable energy facilities) or 274.879 (Financial assurance) or any rule, order or lease adopted or issued under ORS 274.040 (Sale or lease of submersible lands) , 274.873 (Proprietary authorizations for ocean renewable energy facilities) , 274.876 (Proprietary authorization requirements) or 274.879 (Financial assurance) shall be deposited in the Common School Fund for use by the Department of State Lands in administration of ORS 274.040 (Sale or lease of submersible lands) , 274.873 (Proprietary authorizations for ocean renewable energy facilities) or 274.879 (Financial assurance) and as otherwise required by law. [1991 c.521 §4; 1991 c.734 §113; 2013 c.345 §2; 2015 c.386 §8]

Source: Section 274.992 — Civil penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.452 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.452
273.452 Indemnification contract for occupancy of political subdivision lands
Status: in_force

The state or any state agency occupying a street or public property of a political subdivision by any structure above, on or under the surface, may provide a contract of indemnity to protect the other political subdivision against loss or damage resulting from such occupancy. [1981 c.787 §18]

Source: Section 273.452 — Indemnification contract for occupancy of political subdivision lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.060 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.060
274.060 Regulation of harbor improvements
Status: in_force

(1) Nothing in ORS 274.040 (Sale or lease of submersible lands) prevents the Legislative Assembly from providing for regulation of the building of wharves or other improvements in any bay, harbor or inlet of this state, subject to ORS 780.060 (Construction not to interfere with oyster production) , or grants the exclusive right to any person to use the natural oyster beds of this state.

(2) The grantee of any submerged or submersible lands under ORS 274.040 (Sale or lease of submersible lands) shall hold the same subject to the easement of the public, under the provisions and restrictions of law, to enter thereon and remove oysters and other shellfish therefrom. [Amended by 1967 c.421 §105; 1969 c.594 §§33,33a; 2011 c.713 §3]

Source: Section 274.060 — Regulation of harbor improvements; oyster beds; public easement in submerged and submersible lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.431 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.431
273.431 Procedure for determining value of properties to be exchanged
Status: in_force

(1) The value of the respective properties proposed to be exchanged shall be determined by the state agency, board or commission which has supervision and direction of the department or activity of the state for which such property is held or belongs, and if there be no such agency, board or commission, then by the Department of State Lands. The state agency, board or commission may use an appraised value as one indicia of the value of the property.

(2) The state agency, board or commission shall cause the property to be appraised by one or more competent and experienced appraisers. The compensation, if any, of the appraisers shall be borne equally by the respective owners of the property. In case such valuation shall not be mutually satisfactory to the respective owners the same shall not be binding upon them. [1981 c.787 §14; 1991 c.816 §20]

Source: Section 273.431 — Procedure for determining value of properties to be exchanged , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.036 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.036
274.036 Status of channel of Willamette River
Status: in_force

The Willamette River at mile 176.5 has been returned to its pre-1971 channel. The Legislative Assembly finds that in the interests of the state’s ownership in the bed of the Willamette River and protecting the public rights of navigation, fisheries, recreation and wildlife habitat, the river at that point should be allowed to remain at its present location. The Legislative Assembly further finds that the construction of the dike at river mile 176.5 which returned the river to its pre-1971 channel is hereby approved as being in accordance with the intent and purposes of ORS 780.010 (Stream improvement authorized) . Nothing in this section is intended to imply a continuing obligation by the state to maintain the river in any location or waive the requirements of ORS 196.600 (Definitions for ORS 196.600 to 196.655) to 196.921 (Applicability) . [1975 c.412 §2]

SALE, LEASE OR USE WITHOUT CHARGE

Source: Section 274.036 — Status of channel of Willamette River; approval of dam; state maintenance of river location , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.610 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.610
274.610 Prohibited contracts for exploration for hard minerals
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of State Lands shall not enter into contracts for governmental or private development or exploration for hard minerals on state-owned submersible and submerged lands within the territorial sea and navigable bays that are subject to the jurisdiction of the department.

(2) Nothing in this section shall be considered to prohibit scientific research conducted by or on behalf of an academic institution or a government agency.

(3) As used in subsection (1) of this section, “hard minerals” includes but is not limited to natural deposits or mineral sources of gold, silver, copper, lead, iron, manganese, silica, chrome, platinum, tungsten and zirconium. “Hard minerals” does not include oil, gas or sulfur deposits subject to ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) .

(4) As used in this section:

(a) “Exploration” means any activity the principal purpose of which is to define, characterize or evaluate hard mineral deposits for possible commercial development or production.

(b) “Scientific research” means any activity the principal purpose of which is to improve scientific or technical understanding of earth, ocean or atmospheric processes, hazards and resources and for which the data generated are nonproprietary or public. [1991 c.217 §1]

Note: 274.610 (Prohibited contracts for exploration for hard minerals) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 274 by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 274.610 — Prohibited contracts for exploration for hard minerals; scientific research , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.925 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.925
274.925 Right of public riparian owner to purchase new lands
Status: in_force

(1) Whenever the United States, while engaged in the promotion of navigation, creates new lands upon submersible or submerged lands owned by the state and the adjoining or opposite upland or riparian land on the same side of the body of water is owned by a public body, the public body has the right to purchase the new lands as provided in this section. The public body shall pay to the Department of State Lands for the new lands a sum equal to the difference between the value of the tract, consisting of the new lands and the adjoining or opposite upland on the same side of the body of water, and the value of the adjoining or opposite upland before the creation of the new lands and an amount prescribed by the department to pay its administrative costs incurred with respect to the new lands. Such payment shall be made by the public body within one year after the date of the receipt by it of actual notice by the department of the creation of the new lands, the sum equal to the difference between the value of the tract, consisting of the new lands and the adjoining or opposite upland on the same side of the body of water, and the value of the adjoining or opposite upland before the creation of the new lands and the administrative costs incurred by the department with respect to new lands. If the public body fails to make payment for the new lands as provided in this subsection within one year after the date of such notice, the department may dispose of the new lands as provided in ORS 274.915 (Lease or disposal of new lands) .

(2) If a public body and the department cannot agree on the sum to be paid under subsection (1) of this section, the sum to be paid shall be determined by three appraisers, one appointed by the public body, one by the department, and the third by the first two, and their determination shall be final. The cost of the third appraiser shall be borne equally by the public body and the department. [1963 c.376 §5; 1965 c.375 §4; 1967 c.82 §1; 1973 c.203 §4]

Source: Section 274.925 — Right of public riparian owner to purchase new lands; price determination , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.225 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.225
273.225 Application for lease to take material
Status: in_force

Before any person shall take any material from any real property of the State of Oregon, except in the manner and for the purposes mentioned in ORS 274.525 (City use of stream bed material) or 274.550 (Removal of material without payment of royalties) , the person shall apply to the Department of State Lands for a lease. The application shall include a complete description of the location of the contemplated operation, the time and manner of contemplated removal, and such other pertinent information as the department may require. Upon receipt of such application the department may award a lease to the applicant and fix a royalty in the same manner provided in ORS 274.530 (Lease or license of stream beds for removal of material) . [Formerly 274.540; 1969 c.594 §13]

Source: Section 273.225 — Application for lease to take material; form , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 272.010 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 272 / Section 272.010
272.010 Power of United States to acquire title for public improvements by eminent domain
Status: in_force

Whenever it is necessary for the United States to acquire title to real property belonging to an individual or corporation, for the purpose of constructing a public improvement authorized by Act of Congress, and such property cannot be purchased from the owner for that purpose, an authorized agent of the United States may enter upon, examine and select a quantity of land sufficient for public improvements, and proceed in the mode prescribed in ORS chapter 35 to have such property appropriated and the compensation therefor determined and paid. [Amended by 1967 c.421 §180]

Source: Section 272.010 — Power of United States to acquire title for public improvements by eminent domain , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors272.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.306 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.306
273.306 Execution and record of deeds
Status: in_force

(1) Upon full payment of the purchase price and any accrued interest thereon the Director of the Department of State Lands shall execute a deed to the purchaser in a form prescribed by the rules of the Department of State Lands.

(2) The department shall maintain appropriate records of all deeds issued under this section. [Formerly 273.160]

Source: Section 273.306 — Execution and record of deeds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.060 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.060
275.060 Authority to exchange lands offered for sale and not sold
Status: in_force

(1) Except as otherwise provided by statute, the governing body of a county may exchange county land of any character, which has first been offered for sale but not sold for want of a satisfactory bid, for other lands of equal value to which the owner thereof can give clear title and which are free of all liens and encumbrances.

(2) Exchanges may be effected between the county and an individual, partnership or corporation. Thirty days prior to the consummation of the exchange, notice of intention to exchange, setting forth the legal description of the property to be exchanged, together with the appraised value as recently determined by the governing body of the county and the legal description of the property to be acquired in exchange, shall be published for two successive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the county. At any time before an exchange is actually made, written objection thereto may be filed by any interested person and the governing body of the county shall consider any such objection, and at its discretion may conduct hearings thereon. If, after duly considering such objection, the governing body of the county still deems that the proposed exchange is for the best interests of the county, the governing body may proceed with the exchange and its determination in that respect shall be final.

(3) Lands received by the county in exchange may be sold, leased or exchanged the same as might have been done with the lands originally exchanged. [Amended by 2005 c.243 §10]

Source: Section 275.060 — Authority to exchange lands offered for sale and not sold , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.581 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.581
273.581 Natural areas register
Status: in_force

(1) The State Parks and Recreation Department shall maintain a state register of natural areas containing significant natural heritage resources to be called the Oregon Register of Natural Areas.

(2) The department shall from time to time identify natural areas from the natural heritage data bank that qualify for registration. Priority shall be based on the Oregon Natural Areas Plan and shall generally be given to those resources that are rarest, most threatened or underrepresented in the conservation system on a statewide basis. State natural areas shall not unnecessarily duplicate resources or special species already adequately protected by other methods of land protection. Whenever feasible, natural areas that qualify for registration shall be located on lands that have been allocated primarily to special noncommodity uses.

(3) The department shall review each registration proposal, including the landowner’s written permission for registration if the natural area is located on privately owned land.

(4) After review and recommendation by the department, the State Parks and Recreation Commission may place natural areas onto the register or remove natural areas from the register.

(5) A voluntary management agreement may be developed between the department and the owners of the natural areas on the register. [1979 c.711 §6; 1983 c.786 §7; 2009 c.217 §6; 2011 c.319 §14]

Source: Section 273.581 — Natural areas register; contents; agreements between department and landowners , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.558 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.558
273.558 Penalties
Status: in_force

(1) Violation of a rule adopted under ORS 273.553 (South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve) (4) is a Class D violation for each day of violation.

(2) In addition to all other remedies, when it appears to the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Commission that a person has engaged in, or is engaging in, any act that violates a rule adopted under ORS 273.553 (South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve) (4), the commission may direct the Attorney General to apply to the court for an injunction restraining the person from violating such rule. [1977 c.496 §4; 1999 c.1051 §169; 2003 c.14 §137; 2021 c.139 §6]

Source: Section 273.558 — Penalties; enforcement; injunctive relief , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.910 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.910
273.910 Confirmation of title to state lands purchased before 1918
Status: in_force

In all cases prior to May 21, 1917, where state deeds were issued to lands claimed by this state under the laws of the United States, the legal title to which had not yet vested in the state at the date of such deeds, the after-acquired title of this state in or to such lands shall be deemed vested in such purchasers who purchased such lands in good faith, and their heirs and assigns, from the time such legal title passed or may pass out of the United States. Nothing in this section shall prevent the State of Oregon from proceeding at any time to set aside on the ground of fraud any deed made by the state, nor shall anything contained in this section be deemed to prejudice the rights of any person claiming title to any public land adversely to the State of Oregon or to the United States. [Formerly 273.270]

Source: Section 273.910 — Confirmation of title to state lands purchased before 1918 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.855 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.855
273.855 Clatsop County to transfer title to lands and improvements to certain possessors
Status: in_force

(1) ORS 273.850 (State title to certain lands and improvements transferred to Clatsop County) (1) and (2) apply with respect to any lands described therein only when the Board of County Commissioners of Clatsop County executes and delivers a deed remising, releasing and forever quitclaiming all rights, title and interest that may remain or be vested in such county with respect to such lands, to a person or governmental entity that has been found under subsections (3), (4) and (5) of this section and ORS 273.860 (Filing fee) to 273.880 (Judicial review procedure) to have such possession of the lands as of the time of application for a deed under ORS 273.850 (State title to certain lands and improvements transferred to Clatsop County) to 273.890 (Application of ORS 273.850 to 273.890 to certain lands) as would bar an action or suit for recovery of the lands by a private person under no disability holding legal title thereto. However, in the case of lands heretofore or hereafter acquired by Clatsop County through foreclosure for delinquent ad valorem taxes or otherwise, ORS 273.850 (State title to certain lands and improvements transferred to Clatsop County) (1) and (2) apply with respect to any lands described therein when it has been found under subsections (3), (4) and (5) of this section and ORS 273.860 (Filing fee) to 273.880 (Judicial review procedure) that Clatsop County or its predecessor in interest with respect to such lands has such possession of the lands as would bar an action or suit for recovery of the lands by a private person under no disability holding legal title thereto.

(2) A deed executed under this section is intended only to evidence the action of the State of Oregon and Clatsop County in remising, releasing and quitclaiming their rights, title and interest, and does not confer any rights, title or interest on the recipient of the deed or indicate any judgment of the State of Oregon or Clatsop County with respect to any other rights, title or interest that remain or be vested in the recipient of the deed.

(3) Except as provided in ORS 273.870 (Notice of deed application) (2) the Board of County Commissioners of Clatsop County shall not execute any deed under subsections (1) and (2) of this section, until the expiration of the time for appeal from the decision of the board or of the circuit court, as the case may be.

(4) Before any deed to such land is executed under subsections (1) and (2) of this section, the applicant shall pay to the county treasurer a sum equal to $10 per acre or any portion thereof.

(5) The county treasurer shall remit all of such moneys received under subsection (4) of this section to the State Treasurer, who shall deposit it in the Common School Fund to be credited to the Distributable Income Account. [1969 c.495 §§5,11,12,14]

Source: Section 273.855 — Clatsop County to transfer title to lands and improvements to certain possessors; fee on execution of deed , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.275 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.275
273.275 Price of state lands
Status: in_force

Except as limited by ORS 270.020 (Title to property) and 273.225 (Application for lease to take material) to 273.241 (Action to recover damages for unlawful removal of material) and 274.040 (Sale or lease of submersible lands) , and as in its judgment the interests of the state demand, the Department of State Lands:

(1) Shall fix the price at which all classes of state lands may be sold and the interest to be charged on deferred payments therefor under ORS 273.281 (Payment for state lands) , and may provide for the advertisement and sale of such lands to the highest bidder in a manner consistent with ORS 270.020 (Title to property) and 273.225 (Application for lease to take material) to 273.241 (Action to recover damages for unlawful removal of material) .

(2) May at any time withdraw any or all of such lands from sale. [Formerly 273.050]

Source: Section 273.275 — Price of state lands; sale to highest bidder , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.220 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.220
275.220 Procedure upon default or breach under land sale contract
Status: in_force

(1) In case of breach of condition or other default in performance of a land sale contract made pursuant to ORS 275.190 (Cash or installment sale) or 275.200 (Sale of land not sold by sheriff) , the governing body of a county may, by order made and entered in its records, declare the breach or default and cancel the land sale contract or enter into a new purchase agreement in writing. If the land sale contract is canceled and the holder is found within the county, a certified copy of the order shall be served as a summons is served by the sheriff upon the holder of the canceled land sale contract. If the land sale contract is canceled and the holder is not found within the county, a certified copy of the order shall be served by mailing it to the holder by registered mail or by certified mail with return receipt at the last-known address of the holder. Return of such service shall be made upon such copy of order.

(2) Within 20 days after the service of the order of cancellation upon the holder, the holder of the canceled land sale contract may appeal from the order to the circuit court for the county in which the land is located. The circuit court shall try the appeal as an action not triable by right to a jury. If appeal is not taken or if it results, upon trial, in an affirmance of the order of cancellation, the order becomes absolute and the real property forfeited may be sold without notice.

(3) In addition to the remedy for breach or default of a land sale contract under this section, a county may pursue any other remedy provided by law for breach or default of a land sale contract including, but not limited to, the remedy provided by ORS 93.905 (Definitions for ORS 93.905 to 93.940) to 93.940 (Effect of seller’s foreclosure or other action on interest, lien or claim) .

(4) In case of breach of condition or other default in performance of a purchase agreement other than a land sale contract, a county may pursue any remedy provided by law for breach or default of a purchase agreement other than a land sale contract. [Amended by 1979 c.284 §128; 1991 c.67 §65; 1991 c.249 §22; 2005 c.243 §6]

Source: Section 275.220 — Procedure upon default or breach under land sale contract , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 272.085 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 272 / Section 272.085
272.085 Five Percent United States Land Sales Fund
Status: in_force

(1) All funds received from the United States Government by the State of Oregon as five percent of the net proceeds of sales of public lands and materials on those lands located within the State of Oregon, shall upon receipt by the State Treasurer be credited to a special fund in the State Treasury to be known as the Five Percent United States Land Sales Fund. This special fund, notwithstanding the provisions of ORS 291.238 (Expenditures without allotment prohibited) , is continuously appropriated including interest earned to this special fund except for an amount of 60 cents per county that shall be deducted as a distribution charge. The distribution charge is in addition to the transaction charge approved for the Oregon Department of Administrative Services during the budgetary process. The department shall cause the net amount to be distributed to the counties of the state on the basis of the average square mile area of each county.

(2) The moneys distributed to the counties under subsection (1) of this section shall be used for the benefit of the public roads and bridges of the recipient county.

(3) The amount of the distribution charges is continuously appropriated to and shall be used to meet expenses incurred by the Oregon Department of Administrative Services in administering this section. [1981 c.787 §3; 1985 c.787 §1]

Source: Section 272.085 — Five Percent United States Land Sales Fund; use of moneys , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors272.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.183 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.183
273.183 Authority of department to require fingerprints
Status: in_force

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

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(e) In which the person has access to personal information about employees or members of the public including Social Security numbers, dates of birth, driver license numbers, personal financial information or criminal background information;

(f) In which the person has access to tax or financial information of individuals or business entities;

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

(h) In which the person provides security, design or construction services for government buildings, grounds or facilities. [2003 c.250 §2; 2005 c.730 §12; 2019 c.678 §59]

Note: 273.183 (Authority of department to require fingerprints) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 273 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 273.183 — Authority of department to require fingerprints , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.141 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.141
273.141 Nature of services to be performed by certain other agencies
Status: in_force

In order to provide the Department of State Lands with the specialized assistance necessary to its operations and the transaction of its business, and in addition to other agreements that may be entered into under ORS 273.135 (Agreements with other agencies for special services) , the department may enter into written agreements with the state agencies designated in this section for the operation of programs and activities assigned to the department. Subject to final review and approval by the State Land Board:

(1) The State Forestry Department may perform the functions assigned by the board that relate to forest resources.

(2) The State Department of Geology and Mineral Industries may perform the functions of the Department of State Lands that relate to mineral resources.

(3) The Department of Veterans’ Affairs may perform the functions of the Department of State Lands that relate to investment of funds in mortgages secured by real property.

(4) The Oregon Investment Council and the State Treasurer shall invest the funds administered by the Department of State Lands as provided under ORS 293.701 (Definitions for ORS 293.701 to 293.857) to 293.857 (Separate accounts for each local government) .

(5) The State Department of Agriculture may perform the functions assigned by the board and the functions pertaining to management and regulation of grazing land and other agricultural lands. [Formerly 273.595; 1995 c.589 §4; 2003 c.253 §17; 2005 c.625 §62; 2019 c.678 §58]

Source: Section 273.141 — Nature of services to be performed by certain other agencies , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.281 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.281
273.281 Payment for state lands
Status: in_force

The Department of State Lands shall require applicants for the purchase of submersible lands to pay in full for such lands at the time of purchase. Applicants for the purchase of school, agricultural college, university, swamp or indemnity lands shall make payments at such times, and with such interest for deferred payments as the department may prescribe. However, the obligation may not be allowed to stand for a longer period than five years after the date of issuance of the certificate under ORS 273.285 (Certificate of sale to installment purchaser) . [Formerly 273.100; 1969 c.594 §22]

Source: Section 273.281 — Payment for state lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.530 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.530
274.530 Lease or license of stream beds for removal of material
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of State Lands may, after notice of competitive bidding, and following such competitive bidding, lease or license submersible and submerged lands of navigable streams owned by the State of Oregon for the purpose of removing material therefrom. Competitive bid requirements may be waived for leases of less than one year’s duration. No lease shall be made for a lump sum but only on a basis of the price per cubic yard or ton for the material removed.

(2) The department may prescribe by rule the manner in which the volume in cubic yards or the weight in tons for the material removed shall be determined.

(3) Notwithstanding subsections (1) and (2) of this section, the department may enter into a license for the removal of material from submersible and submerged lands of navigable streams owned by the State of Oregon based on a competitive market rate that reflects fair market value.

(4) The department shall, prior to any competitive bidding notice, establish prebid qualifications that include but are not limited to the following:

(a) The minimum yardage amount of material that must be removed for each year for which the lease is valid.

(b) Evidence that all bidders have an established market, as provided by each bidder. [Amended by 1961 c.509 §2; 1961 c.676 §3; 1967 c.421 §144; 1967 c.567 §§15, 15a; 1971 c.509 §1; 1995 c.113 §1]

Source: Section 274.530 — Lease or license of stream beds for removal of material; rules for measurement of volume removed , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.380 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.380
271.380 Indemnifying political subdivision for loss or damage resulting from occupancy of its property
Status: in_force

Any political subdivision occupying a street or public property of another political subdivision by any structure above, on or under the surface, may provide a contract of indemnity to protect the other political subdivision against loss or damage resulting from that occupancy. [1959 c.442 §1; 1981 c.787 §35]

Source: Section 271.380 — Indemnifying political subdivision for loss or damage resulting from occupancy of its property , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.091 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.091
273.091 Recording fees
Status: in_force

The person offering a copy of a document mentioned in ORS 273.085 (Recording copies of documents) for recording shall pay the recording fee. When a copy of a document has been recorded it shall be returned by the recording officer to the Director of the Department of State Lands or other party as stated on the recorded document. [Formerly 273.565; 1999 c.803 §5]

Source: Section 273.091 — Recording fees; return of documents , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.905 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.905
273.905 Confirmation of state land deeds prior to 1891
Status: in_force

All deeds prior to February 20, 1891, to state, school, and university lands, the purchase price of which was paid to the board of commissioners for the sale of school and university lands and for the investment of the fund arising therefrom, hereby are confirmed to the grantees of the state, or to their lawful heirs or assigns, together with all rights, title or interest which the state might or could have in any of the said lands. This section shall not apply to or confirm the title to any lands which were procured by false swearing or by fraudulent representations. [Formerly 273.280]

Source: Section 273.905 — Confirmation of state land deeds prior to 1891 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 272.020 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 272 / Section 272.020
272.020 Conveyance of site to United States for aid to navigation
Status: in_force

Whenever the United States desires to acquire title to land belonging to this state, and covered by the navigable waters of the United States, for the site of an aid to navigation, and application is made by a duly authorized agent of the United States, describing the site required for such purposes, the Governor may convey the title to the United States and cede to the United States jurisdiction over the site, subject to ORS 272.015 (Service of process) . However, no single tract shall contain more than 10 acres. [Amended by 1967 c.421 §182]

Source: Section 272.020 — Conveyance of site to United States for aid to navigation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors272.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.554 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.554
273.554 South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Commission
Status: in_force

(1) For the purpose of providing for the administration of the estuarine research reserve management area in a manner consistent with the provisions of ORS 273.553 (South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve) , there is created the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Commission. The commission shall have the authority, in accordance with the policies formulated by the State Land Board, to:

(a) Conduct the day-to-day operation and management of the reserve management area with the administrative support of the Department of State Lands;

(b) Appoint a manager and other staff necessary to carry out this section; and

(c) Apply for, receive and expend moneys from the federal government and from this state or any agency thereof for the purpose of carrying out this section.

(2) In accordance with applicable provisions of ORS chapter 183, the commission may adopt rules necessary to:

(a) Carry out the commission’s responsibilities pursuant to ORS 273.553 (South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve) ; and

(b) Implement a system of fees to recover the costs of carrying out the management established in ORS 273.553 (South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve) , including fees for use of facilities at the reserve management area, fees for research activities conducted at the reserve management area, visitor activities fees and parking fees.

(3) The commission shall consist of nine members appointed by the Governor as follows:

(a) A representative of common schools in the area of the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve;

(b) One authorized representative of the Coos County Board of Commissioners;

(c) One authorized representative of the governing body of the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay;

(d) The Director of the Department of State Lands or a designee thereof;

(e) One authorized representative of the federal Office for Coastal Management;

(f) Two representatives with an interest in marine science, one from the University of Oregon Institute of Marine Biology at Charleston and one from Oregon State University;

(g) One member selected from the general public at large; and

(h) One representative of Oregon Indian tribes appointed after consultation with the Commission on Indian Services.

(4) The members appointed by the Governor under subsection (3)(a), (f), (g) and (h) of this section shall serve for terms of four years and members appointed under subsection (3)(b) and (c) of this section shall serve for terms of two years. The Director of the Department of State Lands or the designee of the director, if appointed in place of the director, shall serve as the permanent chairperson of the commission. The commission shall select one of its members as vice chairperson. The chairperson and vice chairperson shall have duties and powers necessary for the performance of the functions of such offices as the commission determines. The vice chairperson shall act as the chairperson of the commission in the absence of the chairperson. The vice chairperson shall serve for a term of one year, subject to reelection by the commission.

(5) Each member of the commission shall have one vote, except that the member who is the authorized representative of the federal Office for Coastal Management shall be a nonvoting member. A majority of the commission constitutes a quorum for the transaction of business.

(6) Members of the commission are not entitled to compensation, but in the discretion of the State Land Board may be reimbursed for actual and necessary travel and other expenses incurred by them in the performance of their official duties, subject to laws regulating travel and other expenses of state officers and employees. [1977 c.496 §2; 1983 c.485 §1; 2003 c.14 §135; 2005 c.146 §1; 2005 c.528 §1; 2013 c.1 §25; 2021 c.139 §2]

Source: Section 273.554 — South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Commission; powers; rules; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.231 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.231
273.231 Removal without compliance with statute
Status: in_force

(1) No person shall remove material from any real property of the State of Oregon for commercial uses without complying with ORS 273.225 (Application for lease to take material) , 274.550 (Removal of material without payment of royalties) and 274.560 (Lease terms) .

(2) The establishment or placing of a dredging or digging outfit on any waters, the submersible or submerged lands of which belong to the State of Oregon, and the removal of material from the submersible or submerged lands thereof for commercial uses, without having applied for and received a lease under ORS 274.530 (Lease or license of stream beds for removal of material) , is a continuing trespass. [Formerly 274.580; 1969 c.594 §18]

Source: Section 273.231 — Removal without compliance with statute , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.755 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.755
271.755 Action affecting conservation or highway scenic preservation easement
Status: in_force

(1) An action affecting a conservation easement or highway scenic preservation easement may be brought by:

(a) An owner of an interest in real property burdened by the easement;

(b) A holder of the easement;

(c) A person having a third-party right of enforcement; or

(d) A person authorized by other law.

(2) ORS 271.715 (Definitions for ORS 271.715 to 271.795) to 271.795 (Construction of Act) do not affect the power of a court to modify or terminate a conservation easement or highway scenic preservation easement in accordance with the principles of law and equity. [1983 c.642 §3; 1985 c.160 §5; 1997 c.249 §80]

Source: Section 271.755 — Action affecting conservation or highway scenic preservation easement; standing to bring action , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.240 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.240
274.240 Performance by contractor
Status: in_force

(1) Immediately upon execution of the contract, the contractor undertaking the drainage and reclamation may enter upon the lands for the purpose of reclaiming the same.

(2) The Department of State Lands shall fix the amount to which the contractor is entitled for reclaiming the lands and shall also fix the amount to be paid to the state for such lands. The department may permit the contractor to sell or dispose of the lands at such price and upon such terms as the department may fix in tracts not to exceed 640 acres to any one person under such rules as the department may promulgate governing disposal.

(3) Upon proof satisfactory to the department that the amount fixed by the department as due for reclamation and the amount due the State of Oregon has been fully paid, the department shall issue a quitclaim deed for not more than 640 acres to the purchaser of such land. [Amended by 1967 c.421 §124; 1969 c.594 §40]

Source: Section 274.240 — Performance by contractor; disposal of lands; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.745 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.745
274.745 Drilling logs and records
Status: in_force

(1) Records of drilling conducted by a permittee under ORS 274.740 (Issuance of survey permit) shall be filed by the permittee with the State Department of Geology and Mineral Industries as prescribed by ORS 520.095 (Rules and orders) .

(2) The Department of State Lands may require, as a condition to the issuance of any lease under ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) , that the lessee make available to the Department of State Lands, or the State Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, upon request, all factual and physical exploration results, logs and records resulting from the operations under the lease. [1961 c.619 §5; 1967 c.421 §165; 1973 c.794 §18]

Source: Section 274.745 — Drilling logs and records , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.330 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.330
271.330 Relinquishing title of property not needed for public use
Status: in_force

(1) Any political subdivision is granted express power to relinquish the title to any of the political subdivision’s property not needed for public use to any governmental body, providing the property is used for not less than 20 years for a public purpose by the governmental body in the State of Oregon. These transfers for public purposes may include transfers without consideration of property held by counties as a result of tax foreclosures.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Any political subdivision is granted express power to relinquish the title to any of the political subdivision’s property to a qualifying nonprofit corporation or a municipal corporation for the purpose of providing any of the following:

(A) Low income housing;

(B) Social services; or

(C) Child care services.

(b) As used in this subsection:

(A) “Qualifying nonprofit corporation” means a corporation that is a public benefit corporation as defined in ORS 65.001 (Definitions) and that has obtained a ruling from the federal Internal Revenue Service providing that the corporation is exempt from federal income taxes under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

(B) “Social services” and “child care services” include but are not limited to education, training, counseling, health and mental health services and the provision of facilities and administrative services to support social services and child care services.

(3) Any political subdivision is granted express power to convey real property to a nonprofit or municipal corporation to be used by the nonprofit or municipal corporation for the creation of open space, parks or natural areas for perpetual public use. The instrument conveying the real property must include a restriction on the use of the property that limits the uses of the property to those uses described in this subsection. The instrument conveying the property must also contain a provision for the reversion of the property to the political subdivision if the property is not used in conformance with the restriction. Real property conveyed under this subsection may include real property held by a political subdivision as a result of tax foreclosures.

(4) Any political subdivision is granted express power to convey real property to a nonprofit, municipal or private corporation for the purpose of providing broadband service. The instrument conveying the real property shall include a restriction on the use of the property that requires the property to be used to provide broadband service. The instrument conveying the property shall also contain a provision for the reversion of the property to the political subdivision if the property is not used in conformance with the restriction.

(5) Transfers under this section may include transfers without consideration of property held by counties as a result of tax foreclosures.

(6) Before any county court or board of county commissioners may transfer, under subsection (1) of this section, any tax foreclosed lands in which the state or a political subdivision has represented delinquent and uncollected taxes, liens or assessments, the county court or board of county commissioners shall advertise in a newspaper of general circulation in the county for two successive weeks the court’s or the board’s intention to so transfer the property. The notice must state when the county court will hear objections to the transfer and must specifically describe the property intended to be transferred. After the hearing set in the notice is held and objections are heard, the court may, in the court’s sound discretion, proceed with the transfer. Except in the case of a transfer for low income housing, real property must be conveyed by deed, subject to a reversionary interest retained by the granting political subdivision in the event that the property is used for a purpose that is inconsistent with the grant. The granting political subdivision may waive the subdivision’s right to a reversionary interest at the time the property is conveyed. After the transfer the interests of the state or any political subdivision in the land on account of uncollected taxes, liens or assessments are extinguished, and the county is relieved of the necessity to account for uncollected taxes, liens or assessments. [Amended by 1981 c.787 §29; 1991 c.556 §1; 1997 c.248 §1; 1997 c.752 §2; 1999 c.366 §1; 2001 c.315 §54; 2013 c.158 §35; 2013 c.274 §13; 2019 c.112 §1; 2019 c.174 §112]

Source: Section 271.330 — Relinquishing title of property not needed for public use , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.875 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.875
273.875 Findings of board
Status: in_force

The findings of the Board of County Commissioners of Clatsop County with respect to an application shall be set out concisely in writing, and a copy served on the applicant not later than the 10th day after they are rendered. Not later than the 30th day after receipt of a copy of such findings or within such further time as the county board authorizes on a showing of good cause, an applicant may request a rehearing if the applicant was denied on grounds that there was insufficient evidence under ORS 273.865 (Application for deed) (1)(d). If the county board grants a rehearing, it shall give notice thereof as provided in ORS 273.870 (Notice of deed application) . The findings of the county board after a rehearing, or after the time for requesting a rehearing has elapsed, are final, subject only to judicial review as provided in ORS 273.880 (Judicial review procedure) . [1969 c.495 §10]

Source: Section 273.875 — Findings of board; notice; rehearing procedure , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.715 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.715
273.715 Rules for removal of semiprecious stones and petrified wood from state lands
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of State Lands shall prescribe rules governing the exploration for and removal of semiprecious stones and petrified wood from lands owned by the State of Oregon and under the jurisdiction of the department. Such rules shall be designed to maximize the public benefit of these resources, and shall permit the free use of lands under jurisdiction of the department for collection for noncommercial purposes of reasonable quantities of petrified wood and semiprecious stones.

(2) The department, by rule, shall require payment of a reasonable fee for a permit for the exploration for and removal of semiprecious stones and petrified wood sufficient to cover the expenses of the department incurred under this section with respect to the permit.

(3) No person shall remove petrified wood or semiprecious stones for commercial purposes or in a quantity having a value of $500 or more without a permit issued by the department under this section.

(4) If any person removes semiprecious stones or petrified wood from lands owned by the State of Oregon without a permit as required under this section or in a manner contrary to rules prescribed under this section, all the materials or objects so removed or the value of such materials or objects shall be subject to disposal by the department as property of the State of Oregon. [1967 c.174 §2; 1973 c.642 §5]

Source: Section 273.715 — Rules for removal of semiprecious stones and petrified wood from state lands; fees; removal contrary to rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.490 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.490
274.490 Settlement of conflicting preferential rights
Status: in_force

Settlers within the meander line of any meandered lake have the first preferential right, and the Department of State Lands shall, so far as practicable, work out the various preferential rights by securing to each, all the lands which would be most advantageously used by such several persons. In case of conflict, the department shall give the parties a reasonable time in which to agree, and if they cannot agree, the department shall decide the matter and make conveyances as it considers equitable, and its decision in the matter shall be final. The department shall fix the time within which such preferential rights shall be exercised. [Amended by 1967 c.421 §138]

Source: Section 274.490 — Settlement of conflicting preferential rights , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.230 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.230
271.230 Records of vacations
Status: in_force

(1) If any town or plat of any city or town is vacated by a county court or municipal authority of any city or town, the vacation order or ordinance shall be recorded in the deed records of the county. Whenever a vacation order or ordinance is so recorded, the county surveyor of such county shall, upon a copy of the plat that is certified by the county clerk, trace or shade with permanent ink in such manner as to denote that portion so vacated, and shall make the notation “Vacated” upon such copy of the plat, giving the book and page of the deed record in which the order or ordinance is recorded. Corrections or changes shall not be allowed on the original plat once it is recorded with the county clerk.

(2) For recording in the county deed records, the county clerk shall collect the same fee as for recording a deed. For the services of the county surveyor for marking the record upon the copy of the plat, the county clerk shall collect a fee as set by ordinance of the county governing body to be paid by the county clerk to the county surveyor. [Amended by 1971 c.621 §31; 1975 c.607 §31; 1977 c.488 §2; 1979 c.833 §30; 1999 c.710 §12; 2001 c.173 §5]

TRANSFER, LEASE, DONATION OR USE OF PUBLIC LANDS

Source: Section 271.230 — Records of vacations; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.535 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.535
273.535 Bond or other security requirements for sale of forest products
Status: in_force

Bond or other security requirements for the sale of forest products by the Department of State Lands and provisions for the return of those bonds or securities to a purchaser shall correspond to the bond or other security requirements and provisions for the return of bonds or securities to a purchaser that are established for a forest product sale by the State Forester in ORS 530.059 (Procedure for sales of forest products) and 530.061 (Surety deposit required of successful purchaser) . [Formerly 273.320; 1995 c.375 §4; 1997 c.117 §5; 2014 c.47 §4]

Source: Section 273.535 — Bond or other security requirements for sale of forest products , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.371 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.371
274.371 Oregon Abandoned and Derelict Vessel Fund
Status: in_force

(1) The Oregon Abandoned and Derelict Vessel Fund is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. Interest earned by the Oregon Abandoned and Derelict Vessel Fund shall be credited to the fund. Moneys in the fund are continuously appropriated to the Department of State Lands for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of the Oregon Abandoned and Derelict Vessel Program.

(2) The department may accept grants, donations, contributions or gifts from any source for deposit in the fund.

(3) The fund shall consist of:

(a) Moneys received by the department as provided by subsection (2) of this section;

(b) Moneys appropriated by the Legislative Assembly for deposit in the fund;

(c) Interest earned on moneys in the fund; and

(d) Other moneys deposited in the fund from any source. [2023 c.419 §3]

Source: Section 274.371 — Oregon Abandoned and Derelict Vessel Fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.760 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.760
274.760 Considerations involved in granting lease or easement
Status: in_force

After the public hearing the Department of State Lands shall determine whether the granting of an easement or an invitation for bidding to lease the area under consideration would be in the public interest. In such determination the department shall consider whether an easement or a lease or leases of the area under consideration would:

(1) Be detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of persons residing in, owning real property, or working in the neighborhood of such areas;

(2) Interfere with the residential or recreation areas to an extent that would render such areas unfit for recreational or residential uses or unfit for park purposes;

(3) Destroy, impair or interfere with the aesthetic and scenic values of the Oregon coast, or other affected area;

(4) Create any air, water or other pollution;

(5) Substantially endanger marine life or wildlife;

(6) Substantially interfere with commerce or navigation; and

(7) Protect state lands from drainage of oil and gas. [1961 c.619 §7]

Source: Section 274.760 — Considerations involved in granting lease or easement , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.015 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.015
274.015 Determination of ordinary high and low water
Status: in_force

For purposes of this chapter, when the lines of ordinary high or low water cannot be determined by survey or inspection, then such lines shall be determined by the use of the annual mean high or mean low water for the preceding year. [1967 c.421 §99]

Source: Section 274.015 — Determination of ordinary high and low water , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.440 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.440
274.440 Acquisition of future rights to meandered lakes denied
Status: in_force

(1) There are no vested rights in or to any future accretion or reliction to the lands of any upland or riparian owner on any meandered lake. No person shall acquire any right, title or interest in or to the submerged or submersible lands of any such lakes, or any part thereof, by reliction, accretion or otherwise, or by reason of the lowering or drainage of the waters of such lakes, except as provided by statute.

(2) Upon drainage of meandered lakes, the title of owners of land riparian to such lakes drained under any law shall extend to so much of the submersible and submerged lands reclaimed by such drainage as is required to fill out the least fractional subdivision or subdivisions of any section owned by such riparian owners and which is rendered fractional by the meander line of such lake; and the title of such owners shall be so limited when the receding lake waters, because of such drainage, uncover the submersible and submerged lands. Where by reason of natural accretion or reliction such fractional subdivision or subdivisions of such upland owners were filled out thereby prior to May 25, 1921, such upland owners shall hold to the line of such lands as extended by the natural accretion or reliction.

(3) Submersible and submerged lands covered at ordinary high water at ordinarily recurring seasons by the waters of meandered lakes, or from which the waters of any such lakes have not at ordinarily high water permanently receded, are not considered to be accreted or relicted lands, but the same and all accretions and relictions occurring or formed over any of the lands of the State of Oregon, as provided by ORS 274.430 (State ownership of meandered lakes) , are the property of the State of Oregon, and may be by it leased, sold or managed in the manner provided by law. [Amended by 1967 c.421 §133]

Source: Section 274.440 — Acquisition of future rights to meandered lakes denied; extension of riparian ownership; lands overflowed by high water , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.370 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.370
273.370 Alternative to refund
Status: in_force

If the Department of State Lands finds that the property erroneously conveyed has been identified generally as private property, as evidenced by the inclusion of the property on the assessment rolls of the county in which it is located for a period of 20 years or more immediately preceding, the department may refund to the grantee an amount not to exceed any of the following values:

(1) The current fair market value of the property erroneously conveyed;

(2) The amount of the most recently issued title insurance policy carried on the property, if such a title insurance policy has been issued regularly; or

(3) The estimated current value to the department of the indemnity selection rights reconveyed to the state. [1967 c.422 §5]

Source: Section 273.370 — Alternative to refund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.425 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.425
274.425 Definition for ORS 274.430 to 274.520
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 274.430 (State ownership of meandered lakes) to 274.520 (Acceptance of deed to lake bed lands as precluding any other claim) , “meandered lake” means a lake wholly or partly within this state that has been meandered by the United States surveys. [1967 c.421 §131]

Source: Section 274.425 — Definition for ORS 274.430 to 274.520 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.205 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.205
274.205 Definition for ORS 274.210 to 274.290
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 274.210 (Authority of department to contract for drainage and reclamation of certain lands) to 274.290 (Execution of plan) , “reclamation” includes, but is not limited to, irrigation. [1969 c.594 §36]

Source: Section 274.205 — Definition for ORS 274.210 to 274.290 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.815 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.815
274.815 Extension of time when wells to be drilled from filled land or structure
Status: in_force

If the lessee, as disclosed by information submitted with the bid of the lessee, proposes to drill one or more wells from filled land, whether contiguous or noncontiguous to the littoral lands or uplands, or from any pier or from platforms or other fixed or floating structures to be constructed for such purpose, and if permission from any federal or state agency is legally required in order to construct any such filled lands or structures, the lessee shall be allowed a reasonable time following the execution of the lease within which to secure the necessary permission from such federal and state agencies as shall be legally required, and, upon the securing of such permission, a further reasonable time, determined with regard to the nature of the filled lands or structure or structures to be constructed within which to commence operations for the drilling of such well or wells, and if necessary, the drilling term provided for in ORS 274.810 (Commencement of drilling) shall be extended by the Department of State Lands to the date to which the time to commence operations for the drilling of such well or wells has been extended. [1961 c.619 §19]

Source: Section 274.815 — Extension of time when wells to be drilled from filled land or structure , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 272.033 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 272 / Section 272.033
272.033 Fort Stevens
Status: in_force

Exclusive jurisdiction is ceded to the United States over the military reservation of Fort Stevens, situated on Point Adams, in Clatsop County of this state, subject to ORS 272.015 (Service of process) . [Formerly 272.080]

Source: Section 272.033 — Fort Stevens , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors272.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.175 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.175
273.175 Employees of department
Status: in_force

Subject to any applicable provision of the State Personnel Relations Law:

(1) The Director of the Department of State Lands shall appoint and discharge such personnel as the director considers necessary for the efficient administration of the laws conferring powers or imposing duties upon the Department of State Lands. The director shall prescribe the authority, powers and duties of all employees of the department. Employees of the department are subject at all times to the direction, supervision and control of the director.

(2) Subject to the approval of the State Land Board, the director shall fix the compensation of the employees of the department.

(3) The director may require any employee of the department to give to the state a fidelity bond, with one or more corporate sureties authorized to do business in this state, in a penal sum fixed by the director. The premium on such a bond shall be paid from moneys available for the payment of expenses of the department. [1967 c.616 §10]

Source: Section 273.175 — Employees of department; compensation; fidelity bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.531 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.531
273.531 Decision by department on bids
Status: in_force

When more than one bid has been received, or in case of doubt as to which of a number of bids is the highest and most advantageous for the state, the decision of the Department of State Lands is conclusive and not subject to review by the courts. [Formerly 273.315]

Source: Section 273.531 — Decision by department on bids , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.751 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.751
273.751 State land grants to railroads
Status: in_force

There is granted to all persons constructing railways built after February 21, 1891, within the boundaries of the state, and to their successors and assigns:

(1) A right of way through any unimproved state lands, of the width of 100 feet, being 50 feet in width on each side of the center line of the road.

(2) All necessary grounds for stations, depots, shops, side tracks, turntables and water stations, not exceeding 10 acres in any one place, upon payment to the state of the sum therefor as fixed by the Department of State Lands.

(3) The right to take, from the lands of this state adjacent to the route lines of the road, material necessary for the construction of the roads.

(4) The right to construct and maintain railroad bridges over any navigable waters in this state. All bridges crossing navigable waters shall be subject to such regulations, restrictions and compensation as may be fixed by the department, and shall be so constructed as not unnecessarily to interfere with navigation. [Formerly 273.180]

Source: Section 273.751 — State land grants to railroads , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.900 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.900
273.900 Confirmation of title to tide lands and tide flats
Status: in_force

The titles to all tide lands within this state, and all tide flats not adjacent to the shore in the waters of the state, which have been heretofore sold to purchasers by the State of Oregon, where the purchaser has, in good faith, actually paid to the state the purchase price, and the same has been received by the state, and the purchaser has not purchased from the state to exceed 320 acres of that character or class of land, are hereby confirmed to all such purchasers and grantees of the state, their heirs, successors or assigns, when such tide lands have not been fraudulently obtained, and without reference to the amount of any other character of lands purchased by such purchaser theretofore from the state. [Formerly 274.050]

Source: Section 273.900 — Confirmation of title to tide lands and tide flats , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.920 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.920
273.920 Validation of mineral leases executed and delivered before August 9, 1961
Status: in_force

All leases and conveyances granting the right to explore or prospect for minerals or oil and gas, and for the drilling, mining and removal of the same on or from lands or mineral rights under the jurisdiction and control of any state agency, board or commission, which were executed and delivered by such agency, board or commission prior to August 9, 1961, are hereby validated and declared to be legal and enforceable. [Formerly part of 517.410]

Source: Section 273.920 — Validation of mineral leases executed and delivered before August 9, 1961 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.108 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.108
273.108 Unclaimed Property School Fund
Status: in_force

(1) There is established the Unclaimed Property School Fund within the Common School Fund.

(2) The Unclaimed Property School Fund consists of:

(a) Moneys appropriated or transferred to the fund by the Legislative Assembly or by act of law; and

(b) Moneys transferred to the fund from the Unclaimed Property and Estates Fund under ORS 98.389 (Unclaimed Property and Estates Fund) .

(3) Moneys in the Unclaimed Property School Fund are continuously appropriated to the State Treasurer for the treasurer’s costs of administering the fund.

(4) The State Treasurer may transfer from the fund to the Unclaimed Property and Estates Fund amounts necessary to pay any unanticipated expenses payable from the Unclaimed Property and Estates Fund.

(5) Interest earned by the Unclaimed Property School Fund is credited to the fund. Before July 1 of each year, the State Treasurer, with the approval of the State Land Board, shall transfer any interest of the fund that exceeds the net liabilities of the fund to the Distributable Income Account of the Common School Fund under ORS 273.105 (Distributable Income Account) . [2021 c.424 §3]

Source: Section 273.108 — Unclaimed Property School Fund; use by State Treasurer , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.440 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.440
271.440 Agreements for location of transmission lines on property of political subdivision
Status: in_force

Any political subdivision, owning or controlling any real property or rights therein, may enter into agreements with the United States or any agency thereof, relative to the conditions for and places where electrical and other transmission lines may be placed and maintained across that property. The agreements may be in perpetuity or for a shorter period. However, an agreement shall not affect the constitutional rights of any owners of private property who do not join therein. [Formerly 758.030; 1981 c.787 §38]

Source: Section 271.440 — Agreements for location of transmission lines on property of political subdivision , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.335 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.335
273.335 Object of ORS 273.340 and 273.345
Status: in_force

The object of ORS 273.340 (Ascertainment and procurement of indemnity lands) and 273.345 (Determination of advisability of selection of indemnity lands within national forest reserves) is to make available for settlement and development the lands to which the State of Oregon is entitled as indemnity and the remaining unsold state lands, and to make available for the Common School Fund the proceeds from the sale of such lands. [1967 c.421 §70]

Source: Section 273.335 — Object of ORS 273.340 and 273.345 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.710 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.710
274.710 Jurisdiction of department over tidal submerged lands
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of State Lands has exclusive jurisdiction over all ungranted tidal submerged lands owned by this state, whether within or beyond the boundaries of this state, heretofore or hereafter acquired by this state:

(a) By quitclaim, cession, grant, contract or otherwise from the United States or any agent thereof; or

(b) By any other means.

(2) All jurisdiction and authority remaining in the state over tidal submerged lands as to which grants have been or may be made is vested in the department.

(3) Notwithstanding ORS 273.551 (Mining and drilling leases on state lands) , the department shall administer and control all tidal submerged lands described in subsections (1) and (2) of this section under its jurisdiction, and may lease such lands and submersible lands and dispose of oil, gas and sulfur under such lands and submersible lands in the manner prescribed by ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) . However, submerged and submersible lands lying more than 10 miles easterly of the 124th West Meridian shall be subject to leasing for oil, gas and sulfur under ORS 273.551 (Mining and drilling leases on state lands) , rather than under ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) .

(4) Notwithstanding any other provision of ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) , the department may not permit any interference other than temporary interference with the surface of the ocean shore, as defined in ORS 390.615 (Ownership of Pacific shore) . The department may, however:

(a) Grant easements underlying that part of the surface of the ocean shore owned by the state at such times and at such places as the department finds necessary to permit the extraction and transportation of oil, gas or sulfur from state, federal or private lands; and

(b) Issue oil and gas leases underlying the ocean shore under the same terms and conditions as provided in ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) . [1961 c.619 §2; 1967 c.421 §159; 2005 c.22 §197]

Source: Section 274.710 — Jurisdiction of department over tidal submerged lands; easements; leases for oil, gas and sulfur , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.600 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.600
271.600 Use of term “squaw”
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section:

(a) “Indian tribe” has the meaning given that term in ORS 97.740 (Definitions for ORS 97.740 to 97.760) .

(b) “Public body” has the meaning given that term in ORS 174.109 (“Public body” defined) .

(c) “Public property” has the meaning given that term in ORS 131.705 (Definitions for ORS 131.705 to 131.735) .

(2) A public body may not use the term “squaw” in the name of a public property.

(3) When a public body changes a name that contains the term “squaw,” the public body shall consider as the replacement name a term or phrase in the language of an Indian tribe.

(4) Subsection (2) of this section does not apply if:

(a) Federal law requires the use of the term “squaw”; or

(b) The public property is a geographic feature that an agency of the United States names using the term “squaw.” [2001 c.652 §1; 2005 c.165 §1]

Note: 271.600 (Use of term “squaw”) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 271 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 271.600 — Use of term “squaw”; exceptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.151 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.151
273.151 Cooperation with federal government
Status: in_force

The Department of State Lands may cooperate with the federal government for the development, settlement, subdivision and disposition of lands belonging to the State of Oregon, or which otherwise may be made available for carrying out the purposes of ORS 273.316 (Exchanging state lands to accumulate larger tracts) to 273.345 (Determination of advisability of selection of indemnity lands within national forest reserves) and 273.511 (Acquisition of submersible and swamp lands) . In such cooperation, the department may provide the lands but the federal government shall provide the money necessary to meet the expenses of reclamation, subdivision, necessary improvement and equipment. [Formerly 273.740; 1969 c.594 §16]

Source: Section 273.151 — Cooperation with federal government , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.566 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.566
273.566 Legislative findings
Status: in_force

(1) The Legislative Assembly finds that many valuable natural heritage resources are represented in natural areas that can be protected through the voluntary cooperation of private landowners and public land managers. These areas will comprise a discrete and limited system of natural areas that are selected to represent the full range of Oregon’s natural heritage resources. These areas shall have substantially retained their natural character, or, if altered in character, shall in addition to their natural heritage resource values be valuable as habitat for plant and animal species or for the study and appreciation of the natural features. As such they will be living museums for scientific research, educational purposes and nature interpretation.

(2) The Legislative Assembly also finds that it is necessary to establish a process and means for public and private sector cooperation in the development of this system of state natural areas. Private landowners and public land managers should be encouraged to voluntarily participate in the program through conservation activities that benefit all Oregonians.

(3) In order to ensure that activities related to natural heritage resources cause the minimum of conflict with other resource uses and that they are cost effective, the Legislative Assembly finds that the State Parks and Recreation Department should provide a specific framework for decision making related to natural heritage resources through a classification and planning process known as the Natural Areas Program. Future state natural areas should avoid unnecessary duplication of already protected natural heritage resources. Each decision should address alternative methods of accomplishing the same purpose and should consider cost effectiveness.

(4) The Legislative Assembly recognizes that there is a need for systematic, accessible information concerning the locations of the resources of Oregon’s natural areas, including special plant and animal species, native terrestrial ecosystems, aquatic ecosystems and geologic features, and especially including the natural areas already protected that contain these resources. [1979 c.711 §2; 1983 c.786 §3; 2009 c.217 §2; 2011 c.319 §11]

Source: Section 273.566 — Legislative findings , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 270.110 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 270 / Section 270.110
270.110 Disposition of property not needed for public use
Status: in_force

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

(a) Whenever the state or any agency thereof possesses or controls real property not needed for public use, or whenever the public interest may be furthered, the state or its agency may sell, exchange, convey or lease for any period not exceeding 99 years all or any part of its interest in the property to or with the state or any political subdivision of the state or the United States or any agency thereof or private individual or corporation. Except where the state is exchanging real property, the consideration for the transfer or lease may be cash or real property, or both.

(b) The state or any agency thereof shall offer for sale any real property in its possession or control if the property:

(A) Is within the urban growth boundary of any city, is within an urban reserve, is within a rural community, or is within an urban unincorporated community;

(B) Is not being used for public purposes; and

(C) Is not needed for public use within five years of the last date the property was used for public purposes.

(c) Paragraph (b) of this subsection does not apply to the Department of Transportation or to the Department of State Lands.

(d) Nothing in this subsection limits the authority of the state to relinquish title to property pursuant to ORS 458.445 (Authority to relinquish title to property) .

(2) If the ownership, right or title of the state to any real property set apart by deed, will or otherwise for a burial ground or cemetery, or for the purpose of interring the remains of deceased persons, is limited or qualified or the use of such real property is restricted, whether by dedication or otherwise, the state or its agency may, after first declaring by resolution that such real property is not needed for public use, or that the sale, exchange, conveyance or lease thereof will further the public interest, file a complaint in the circuit court for the county in which such real property is located against all persons claiming any right, title or interest in such real property, whether the interest be contingent, conditional or otherwise, for authority to sell, exchange, convey or lease all or any part of such real property. The resolution is prima facie evidence that such real property is not needed for public use, or that the sale, exchange, conveyance or lease will further the public interest. The action shall be commenced and prosecuted to final determination in the same manner as an action not triable by right to a jury. The complaint shall contain a description of such real property, a statement of the nature of the restrictions, qualifications or limitations, and a statement that the defendants claim some interest therein. The court shall make such judgment as it shall deem proper, taking into consideration the limitations, qualifications or restrictions, the resolution and all other matters pertinent thereto. Neither costs nor disbursements may be recovered against any defendant.

(3) The authority to lease property granted by this section includes authority to lease property not owned or controlled by the state at the time of entering into the lease. Such lease shall be conditioned upon the subsequent acquisition of the interest covered by the lease.

(4) Any lease of state real property exceeding five years must be approved in advance by the Oregon Department of Administrative Services, except for leases:

(a) Negotiated by the Oregon Department of Aviation;

(b) Of state forestlands;

(c) Of property controlled by the Department of State Lands, the Department of Transportation or a public university listed in ORS 352.002 (Public universities) ; or

(d) Of property controlled by the legislative or judicial branches of state government. [1991 c.816 §5; 1999 c.935 §25; 2005 c.15 §1; 2009 c.762 §51; 2013 c.768 §120; 2015 c.572 §3]

Source: Section 270.110 — Disposition of property not needed for public use; lease approval by department , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors270.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.150 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.150
271.150 Vacation records to be filed
Status: in_force

A certified copy of the ordinance vacating any street or plat area and any map, plat or other record in regard thereto which may be required or provided for by law, shall be filed for record with the county clerk. The petitioner for such vacation shall bear the recording cost and the cost of preparing and filing the certified copy of the ordinance and map. A certified copy of any such ordinance shall be filed with the county assessor and county surveyor.

Source: Section 271.150 — Vacation records to be filed; costs , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 272.060 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 272 / Section 272.060
272.060 Federal migratory bird refuges
Status: in_force

(1) For the purpose of more effectively cooperating with the United States in the acquisition, development and maintenance of refuges for migratory wild fowl as provided in the Migratory Bird Conservation Act (45 Stat. 1222, 16 U.S.C. 715 to 715r), as amended, permission is granted to the United States to acquire by purchase, gift or lease, lands and waters which the Secretary of the Interior of the United States may deem necessary and suitable for the purposes provided in such Act.

(2) Jurisdiction of the State of Oregon, both civil and criminal, over persons upon areas acquired under this section shall not be affected or changed by reason of their acquisition and administration by the United States as migratory bird reservations, except so far as the punishment of offenses against the United States is concerned.

(3) Nothing in this section is intended to interfere with the operation of the laws of the State of Oregon applying to migratory game birds insofar as they do not permit what is forbidden by federal law. [Amended by 1967 c.421 §187]

Source: Section 272.060 — Federal migratory bird refuges , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors272.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.120 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.120
275.120 Sheriff’s notice of sale
Status: in_force

(1) Upon receipt of a certified copy of the order referred to in ORS 275.110 (Order to sell certain county lands) , the sheriff shall publish a notice of the sale of such property in a newspaper of general circulation, printed and published in the county where the land is situated, once each week for four consecutive weeks prior to such sale.

(2) The notice shall state:

(a) The time and place of sale;

(b) The description of the property or interest therein to be sold;

(c) If available from the tax roll, the real market value of the property or interest to be sold as evidenced by the last roll certified under ORS 311.105 (Certificate of taxes levied or imposed) on which the property was included;

(d) The minimum price for the property or interest to be sold, as fixed by the governing body of the county, which may be lower than the tax roll value;

(e) The date of the order directing the sale; and

(f) Such other matters as the governing body of the county deems pertinent.

(3) Proof of publication of the notice shall be made in the same manner as proof of publication of summons is made, and shall be filed by the sheriff with the county clerk of the county, and then recorded in the deed record of the county. [Amended by 1981 c.602 §4; 1989 c.223 §1; 1995 c.79 §93; 2005 c.243 §15]

Source: Section 275.120 — Sheriff’s notice of sale , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.090 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.090
271.090 Filing of petition
Status: in_force

The petition shall be presented to the city recorder or other recording officer of the city. If found by the recorder to be sufficient, the recorder shall file it and inform at least one of the petitioners when the petition will come before the city governing body. A failure to give such information shall not be in any respect a lack of jurisdiction for the governing body to proceed on the petition.

Source: Section 271.090 — Filing of petition; notice , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.220 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.220
274.220 Application for drainage and reclamation of lands
Status: in_force

(1) Any person desiring to enter into a contract to drain submersible and submerged lands under ORS 274.210 (Authority of department to contract for drainage and reclamation of certain lands) to 274.260 (Title of riparian owners) and reclaim such lands shall file with the Department of State Lands an application.

(2) The applicant, at the expense of the applicant and without any cost or charge to the state, shall make the necessary surveys and prepare a map of the lands proposed to be reclaimed. The map shall exhibit a plan showing the area that is submersible or submerged and the mode of the contemplated drainage and reclamation, and shall be accompanied by a list of the lands proposed to be drained, with sufficient description to identify the lands in accordance with rules promulgated by the department.

(3) The application shall contain an estimate of the cost of the construction of the proposed system of drainage and reclamation. [Amended by 1967 c.421 §122; 1969 c.594 §38]

Source: Section 274.220 — Application for drainage and reclamation of lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.937 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.937
274.937 Right of individual to purchase new lands created by individual
Status: in_force

(1) Whenever an individual, in accordance with ORS 274.920 (Creation of new lands upon submersible or submerged lands) , creates new lands upon submersible or submerged lands owned by the state, such individual has the right to purchase the new lands as provided in this section. The individual shall pay to the Department of State Lands for the new lands the value of the state-owned submersible or submerged lands upon which the new lands were created immediately prior to the creation of the new lands thereon and a reasonable portion of the private benefit realized from the creation of the new lands as an addition to the adjoining or opposite upland in front of which the new lands were created. The individual shall also pay to the department for the new lands the administrative costs incurred by the department with respect to the new lands. If the individual fails to make payment for the new lands as provided in this subsection within six months after the date of the notice by the department, the department may dispose of the new lands as provided in ORS 274.915 (Lease or disposal of new lands) .

(2) If an individual and the department cannot agree on the sum to be paid for new lands under subsection (1) of this section, the sum to be paid shall be determined by three appraisers, one appointed by the individual, one appointed by the department and the third appointed by the first two. The determination of the appraisers shall be final. The cost of the third appraiser shall be borne equally by the individual and the department. [1973 c.203 §6]

Source: Section 274.937 — Right of individual to purchase new lands created by individual; price determination , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.522 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.522
273.522 Definition for “forest products.”
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 273.522 (Definition for “forest products.”) to 273.541 (Execution and delivery of instruments) , “forest products” has the meaning given that term in ORS 532.010 (Definitions for ORS 532.010 to 532.140) . [1997 c.117 §2]

Source: Section 273.522 — Definition for “forest products.” , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.445 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.445
271.445 Installation of fiber-optic lines on public land and in public right of way
Status: in_force

(1) It is the intent of the Legislative Assembly that the state inform city and county governments of applications for the installation of fiber-optic lines on public land and in public rights of way that have been submitted to state agencies.

(2) The Governor shall direct the Department of Transportation and the Department of State Lands to take such action as necessary to ensure that affected city and county governments are informed of applications for the installation and maintenance of fiber-optic lines on public land and in public rights of way that have been submitted to the state agencies. [1999 c.1093 §40]

Note: 271.445 (Installation of fiber-optic lines on public land and in public right of way) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 271 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 271.445 — Installation of fiber-optic lines on public land and in public right of way , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.406 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.406
274.406 Declaration of state’s claim
Status: in_force

(1) Upon the adoption of a report by the State Land Board under ORS 274.404 (Administrative determination of navigable waterway) (2)(e), the board shall declare the nature and extent of the state’s claim to any interest that remains or is vested in the State of Oregon with respect to any land or waterway described in the report.

(2) Except as it may be modified upon review pursuant to ORS 274.412 (Judicial review of declaration of state’s claim) , a declaration made by the board pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall be binding upon the State of Oregon with respect to the interest, if any, of the State of Oregon in any land or waterway described in the declaration.

(3) Nothing contained in this section is intended to affect the ability of a court of competent jurisdiction to make a determination with respect to a private claim to or interest in real property. [1995 c.471 §5]

Source: Section 274.406 — Declaration of state’s claim; effect , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.320 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.320
275.320 Designation of county forests, parks and recreational areas
Status: in_force

The governing body of a county may, by order, designate as county forests, public parks or recreational areas any real property heretofore or hereafter acquired by the county for delinquent taxes or otherwise. Where the park or recreational area is situated in whole or in part within the corporate limits of any city the county first shall obtain the consent or approval, by resolution or ordinance adopted by the city consenting or approving the creation of the public park or recreational area. [Amended by 2005 c.243 §27]

Source: Section 275.320 — Designation of county forests, parks and recreational areas , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.110 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.110
271.110 Notice of hearing
Status: in_force

(1) The city recorder or other recording officer of the city shall give notice of the petition and hearing by publishing a notice in the city official newspaper once each week for two consecutive weeks prior to the hearing. If no newspaper is published in such city, written notice of the petition and hearing shall be posted in three of the most public places in the city. The notices shall describe the ground covered by the petition, give the date it was filed, the name of at least one of the petitioners and the date when the petition, and any objection or remonstrance, which may be made in writing and filed with the recording officer of the city prior to the time of hearing, will be heard and considered.

(2) Within five days after the first day of publication of the notice, the city recording officer shall cause to be posted at or near each end of the proposed vacation a copy of the notice, which shall be headed, “Notice of Street Vacation,” “Notice of Plat Vacation” or “Notice of Plat and Street Vacation,” as the case may be. The notice shall be posted in at least two conspicuous places in the proposed vacation area. The posting and first day of publication of such notice shall be at least 14 days before the hearing.

(3) The city recording officer shall, before publishing such notice, obtain from the petitioners a sum sufficient to cover the cost of publication, posting and other anticipated expenses. The city recording officer shall hold the sum so obtained until the actual cost has been ascertained, when the amount of the cost shall be paid into the city treasury and any surplus refunded to the depositor. [Amended by 1991 c.629 §1; 2005 c.22 §196]

Source: Section 271.110 — Notice of hearing , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 270.005 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 270 / Section 270.005
270.005 Definitions
Status: in_force

For purposes of ORS 184.634 (Disposition of real property by department) , 270.005 (Definitions) to 270.015 (Effect of ORS 270.005 to 270.190) , 270.100 (Notice to department before sale of real property) to 270.190 (Disposition of operating fund revenues) , 273.416 (Exchange of property held as trust fund asset) , 273.426 (Exchange of property) to 273.436 (Lease procedure) and 273.551 (Mining and drilling leases on state lands) :

(1) “Department” means the Oregon Department of Administrative Services.

(2) “Improvements” means any and all structures on or attachments to state-owned real property, but excluding public improvements as defined in ORS 279A.010 (Definitions for Public Contracting Code) .

(3) “Real property” means all real property together with any and all improvements thereon.

(4) “Rural community” means an unincorporated community that consists primarily of permanent residential dwellings but also has at least two other land uses that provide commercial, industrial or public uses to the community, the surrounding rural area or persons traveling through the area.

(5) “Surplus real property” means all state-owned real property and improvements surplus to agency and state need.

(6) “Urban growth boundary” has the meaning given that term in ORS 197.015 (Definitions for ORS chapters 195, 196, 197 and 197A) .

(7) “Urban reserve” means any land designated as an urban reserve under ORS 197A.245 (Urban reserves) .

(8) “Urban unincorporated community” has the meaning given that term in ORS 197.015 (Definitions for ORS chapters 195, 196, 197 and 197A) . [1991 c.816 §3; 1993 c.500 §11; 1997 c.685 §5; 1999 c.314 §79; 2003 c.794 §224; 2015 c.572 §2; 2023 c.13 §100]

Source: Section 270.005 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors270.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.290 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.290
275.290 Sale or lease of timber on county lands
Status: in_force

(1) In any instrument of conveyance or agreement for conveyance of timber upon lands acquired by any county by foreclosure of delinquent tax liens or otherwise under ORS 275.090 (Powers of county as to lands acquired on foreclosure of tax liens, or by exchange, devise or gift) to 275.220 (Procedure upon default or breach under land sale contract) , the governing body of the county may provide such conditions and regulations of cutting and slash disposal as may be deemed to be for the best interests of the county, which conditions and regulations shall be in addition to the provisions of the state forest fire law.

(2) Any purchaser of such timber may be required to give a bond or undertaking in favor of the county conditioned upon the compliance of the purchaser with all such conditions and regulations and with the provisions of the state forest fire laws, the bond to be in an amount not less than the full purchase price of the timber.

(3) The instrument or agreement for conveyance may be made for a term of years, in which case all rights and interests thereby granted by the county shall revert to and revest in the county upon expiration of the term. [Amended by 2005 c.243 §19]

Source: Section 275.290 — Sale or lease of timber on county lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.210 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.210
274.210 Authority of department to contract for drainage and reclamation of certain lands
Status: in_force

The Department of State Lands on behalf of the State of Oregon may enter into contracts for:

(1) The drainage of submersible and submerged lands adjoining or underlying any lakes, marshes or swamps in this state, or for the drainage of that part which is in this state of submersible and submerged lands adjoining or underlying any lake, marsh or swamp lying partly in this state and partly in another state, and for the reclamation of any such lands; and

(2) The sale or disposal of such drained and reclaimed lands as provided for in ORS 274.210 (Authority of department to contract for drainage and reclamation of certain lands) to 274.260 (Title of riparian owners) . [Amended by 1967 c.421 §121; 1969 c.594 §37; 2001 c.104 §82]

Source: Section 274.210 — Authority of department to contract for drainage and reclamation of certain lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.379 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.379
274.379 Authority to seize abandoned structure or derelict structure
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of State Lands is authorized to seize a structure on, under or over state-owned submerged or submersible lands if:

(a) The department determines, after providing notice and opportunity for a hearing, that the structure is an abandoned structure or a derelict structure; and

(b) The owner of the structure has failed to correct the problems identified in the notice within 20 days or a longer reasonable time as specified in the notice provided under the rules adopted under ORS 274.385 (Rules) or within any additional time that may be granted by the department.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The notice required under subsection (1) of this section must:

(A) Identify, with specificity, the department’s proprietary interest in and jurisdiction over the state-owned submerged or submersible lands that the structure is on, under or over;

(B) Identify any person that the department has determined may have a potential interest in the structure or the land upon which the structure is located; and

(C) Be delivered by certified mail, return receipt requested, to any person with a potential interest in the structure or the land upon which the structure is located, as determined by the department after diligent investigation.

(b) As used in this subsection, “diligent investigation” includes but is not limited to a search of the county property records.

(3) The department may remove, salvage, store and dispose of structures seized under this section.

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Nothing in this section affects the ability of the department to:

(A) Investigate and prosecute trespasses on and damage to state lands under ORS 273.185 (Director to investigate trespasses on state lands) ; or

(B) Immediately seize without notice a structure that presents a hazard to navigation or an imminent threat to public health or safety.

(b) If the department seizes a structure without notice under this subsection and the department wishes to salvage or dispose of the structure, the department shall provide notice as provided for in the rules adopted under ORS 274.385 (Rules) . [2015 c.715 §2]

Source: Section 274.379 — Authority to seize abandoned structure or derelict structure; notice , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.316 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.316
273.316 Exchanging state lands to accumulate larger tracts
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of State Lands may exchange any state lands under its control for any other lands in this state for the purpose of accumulating larger and contiguous tracts of state lands. The department may enter into the necessary contracts to accomplish such purposes, subject to the rights of lessees under ORS 273.321 (Notification to lessee prior to exchange) . The exchange may be made on the basis of value or acreage, and the department may pay or accept money as part of the consideration to the extent required for a fair transaction.

(2) The object of this section is to authorize the department to exchange isolated tracts of state lands for the purpose of accumulating larger and contiguous tracts of state lands. [Formerly 273.700; subsection (2) (1967 Replacement Part) enacted as 1967 c.421 §64; subsection (2) enacted as 1967 c.148 §2; 1969 c.594 §25]

Source: Section 273.316 — Exchanging state lands to accumulate larger tracts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.785 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.785
273.785 Application of ORS 273.551 and 273.775 to 273.790
Status: repealed

ORS 273.551 (Mining and drilling leases on state lands) and 273.775 (Definitions for ORS 273.775 to 273.790) to 273.790 (Registry of rights under state board) do not apply to:

(1) Soil, clay, stone, sand and gravel that state agencies acquire or use for the purpose of constructing or repairing roads or other state facilities, or the proceeds from soil, clay, stone, sand or gravel.

(2) Mineral or geothermal resource rights or the proceeds from mineral or geothermal resource rights that the State Fish and Wildlife Commission acquires in an agreement with the federal government under 16 U.S.C. 669 to 669i (P.L. 75-415).

(3) Mineral or geothermal resource rights or the proceeds from mineral or geothermal resource rights if federal rules or regulations or any agreement that the state enters into at the time the state acquires the mineral or geothermal resource rights requires another disposition.

(4) Proceeds of mineral and geothermal resource rights that the state acquires pursuant to ORS 530.010 (State Board of Forestry authorized to acquire lands) and 530.030 (Conveyance of county lands to state) , other than mineral and geothermal resource rights distributed under ORS 530.110 (Distribution of revenues from lands acquired under ORS 530.010 to 530.040) (1)(c).

(5) Mineral or geothermal resource rights or the proceeds from mineral or geothermal resource rights that the Department of Veterans’ Affairs acquires for the state after January 1, 1974, under ORS 88.720 (Acquisition, administration and disposal by state of property subject to lien held by state) , 406.050 (Additional powers and duties of director or department) (2), 407.135 (Authority of department) or 407.145 (Purchase and control of property) . After consultation, the Department of State Lands and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs shall enter into an interagency agreement governing consultation between the departments concerning mineral and geothermal resource values on properties the Department of Veterans’ Affairs acquires for the state. The Department of Veterans’ Affairs shall adopt rules relating to the release of mineral and geothermal rights on the acquired properties.

(6) Mineral or geothermal resource rights or the proceeds from mineral or geothermal resource rights that a donor gives to any public university or office, department or activity under the control of the governing board of a public university listed in ORS 352.002 (Public universities) that the public university acquires or holds for the state under ORS chapters 351 and 567. In managing mineral or geothermal resource leases, the governing board shall consult with the Department of State Lands in accordance with an interagency agreement that the department and the governing board establish to govern consultation between the department and the public university and to govern management of the mineral or geothermal resources.

(7) Mineral or geothermal resource rights or proceeds from mineral or geothermal resource rights that the Department of Transportation acquires and holds. In managing mineral or geothermal resource leases, the Department of Transportation shall enter into an intergovernmental agreement with the Department of State Lands governing consultation between the departments and governing management of the mineral or geothermal resources.

(8) Mineral or geothermal resource rights or the proceeds from mineral or geothermal resource rights that the Housing and Community Services Department acquires and holds.

(9) Mineral or geothermal resource rights or the proceeds from mineral or geothermal resource rights that the Oregon Health Authority or the Department of Human Services acquires and holds. [1974 c.51 §4; 1991 c.467 §1; 2001 c.453 §1; 2003 c.676 §1; 2005 c.60 §1; 2005 c.625 §63; 2011 c.637 §84; 2013 c.167 §2; 2015 c.285 §2; 2015 c.767 §§76,230,231]

Note: All sections of ORS chapter 351 were repealed or renumbered in 2014 or 2015. The text of 273.785 (Application of ORS 273.551 and 273.775 to 273.790) was not amended by enactment of the Legislative Assembly to reflect the repeal or renumbering. Editorial adjustment of 273.785 (Application of ORS 273.551 and 273.775 to 273.790) for the repeal or renumbering of all sections of ORS chapter 351 has not been made.

Source: Section 273.785 — Application of ORS 273.551 and 273.775 to 273.790; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.715 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.715
271.715 Definitions for ORS 271.715 to 271.795
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 271.715 (Definitions for ORS 271.715 to 271.795) to 271.795 (Construction of Act) , unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) “Conservation easement” means a nonpossessory interest of a holder in real property imposing limitations or affirmative obligations the purposes of which include retaining or protecting natural, scenic or open space values of real property, ensuring its availability for agricultural, forest, recreational or open space use, protecting natural resources, maintaining or enhancing air or water quality, or preserving the historical, architectural, archaeological or cultural aspects of real property.

(2) “Highway scenic preservation easement” means a nonpossessory interest of a holder in real property imposing limitations or affirmative obligations the purposes of which include retaining or protecting natural, scenic or open space values of property.

(3) “Holder” means:

(a) The state, any county, metropolitan service district, soil and water conservation district, city or park and recreation district or a county service district established under ORS 451.410 (Definitions for ORS 451.410 to 451.610) to 451.610 (Advisory committee for emergency communications system) to construct, maintain and operate service facilities in Washington or Clackamas County for the purposes specified in ORS 451.010 (Authorization to establish master plans and service districts) (1)(a) and (b) and in Washington County for the purpose specified in ORS 451.010 (Authorization to establish master plans and service districts) (5) acting alone or in cooperation with any federal or state agency, public corporation or political subdivision;

(b) A charitable corporation, charitable association or charitable trust, the purposes or powers of which include retaining or protecting the natural, scenic or open space values of real property, assuring the availability of real property for agricultural, forest, recreational or open space use, protecting natural resources, maintaining or enhancing air or water quality, or preserving the historical, architectural, archaeological or cultural aspects of real property; or

(c) An Indian tribe as defined in ORS 97.740 (Definitions for ORS 97.740 to 97.760) .

(4) “Third-party right of enforcement” means a right provided in a conservation easement or highway scenic preservation easement to enforce any of its terms granted to a governmental body, charitable corporation, charitable association or charitable trust, that, although eligible to be a holder, is not a holder. [1983 c.642 §1; 1985 c.160 §1; 1997 c.249 §78; 1999 c.208 §1; 2001 c.708 §12; 2001 c.907 §2; 2003 c.467 §1; 2005 c.368 §1; 2023 c.9 §12]

Source: Section 271.715 — Definitions for ORS 271.715 to 271.795 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.055 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.055
273.055 Power to acquire and dispose of real property
Status: in_force

If it finds it advisable in carrying out its duties, the Department of State Lands in the name of the State of Oregon may take title to real and personal property in fee simple or absolutely, in trust or under such other conditions as it considers advisable, and may convey title thereto or execute agreements necessary to carry out its duties. [Formerly 273.710; 1969 c.594 §3]

Source: Section 273.055 — Power to acquire and dispose of real property , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.873 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.873
274.873 Proprietary authorizations for ocean renewable energy facilities
Status: in_force

(1) A person may not construct or operate an ocean renewable energy facility within Oregon’s territorial sea without a proprietary authorization issued by the Department of State Lands and as provided by the department by rule, or in a manner contrary to the conditions set out in the authorization.

(2) An application for a proprietary authorization under this section must include all of the information required by that part of the Territorial Sea Plan that addresses the development of ocean renewable energy facilities in the territorial sea.

(3) The department may not issue a proprietary authorization for an ocean renewable energy facility that does not comply with the criteria described in that part of the Territorial Sea Plan that addresses the development of ocean renewable energy facilities in the territorial sea.

(4) The department shall incorporate the terms and conditions of the removal or fill permit required for the ocean renewable energy facility into the proprietary authorization issued under this section. [2015 c.386 §4]

Note: See note under 274.870 (Definitions for ORS 274.870 to 274.879) .

Source: Section 274.873 — Proprietary authorizations for ocean renewable energy facilities; application; issuance; incorporation of removal or fill permits , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.316 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.316
275.316 Notice of hearing
Status: in_force

(1) The county clerk shall give notice of the time and place of the hearing scheduled under ORS 275.314 (Contents of application) by publication in a newspaper of general circulation published in such county, once each week for four consecutive weeks prior to the hearing. The notice shall set forth the time and place of the hearing, the name of the applicant and a description of the lands in the proposed transfer. If no newspaper of general circulation is published in the county, notice may be given by the clerk by posting such notice in at least four public places in the county.

(2) Upon such hearing, if the governing body of the county finds that such mineral rights are of little or doubtful value and that it would be in the best interests of the county to convey such rights to the record owner of the surface rights, it may fix a minimum value for such rights and enter an order accordingly. Thereupon the governing body of the county, after receiving payment of such value, may execute and deliver the necessary deeds of conveyance. [1967 c.188 §4; 2005 c.243 §26]

Source: Section 275.316 — Notice of hearing; findings; execution of conveyance , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.230 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.230
274.230 Investigation and report by Water Resources Director
Status: in_force

(1) Upon receipt of the application, map and plan of drainage and reclamation under ORS 274.220 (Application for drainage and reclamation of lands) , the Department of State Lands may require the Water Resources Director to make an investigation and report at the expense of the applicant. If the project appears feasible and desirable and such applicant responsible, the department may enter into a contract with the applicant for construction of the drainage and reclamation works.

(2) The applicant shall agree:

(a) To drain the submersible and submerged lands substantially in accordance with the plans set forth in the contract;

(b) To make such proofs of reclamation as are required by the department;

(c) To pay all costs incident to the contract and making of the proof and any other expense connected therewith;

(d) That work will be commenced upon the ditches or other works necessary for such drainage and reclamation at a time fixed by the department and agreed upon in the contract;

(e) That by the end of the first year after the time fixed in the contract for beginning such work, 10 percent of the necessary expenditure will be made; and

(f) That this work will be prosecuted with due diligence until complete and the required proof of reclamation is made.

(3) The department shall require a bond subject to its approval in any sum it finds necessary to insure the faithful performance of the contract. [Amended by 1967 c.421 §123; 1969 c.594 §39]

Source: Section 274.230 — Investigation and report by Water Resources Director; terms of contract; bond , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.420 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.420
271.420 City bonds as payment for land sold by city
Status: in_force

By ordinance duly passed by its governing body, any incorporated city or town may authorize the acceptance of its general obligation bonds or interest coupons, or both, in payment of the purchase price of any lands acquired and for sale by such city or town.

Source: Section 271.420 — City bonds as payment for land sold by city , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.311 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.311
273.311 Correction of deeds
Status: in_force

(1) In all cases where clerical errors have been made in deeds for any state lands sold, upon satisfactory proof and if the rights of innocent parties have not intervened, the Director of the Department of State Lands may execute corrected deeds to the holders thereof.

(2) Where lands, other than submersible lands and unsurveyed or unpatented swamp lands have been sold and the state cannot convey title to the purchaser, the Department of State Lands shall repay the purchaser, or the heirs or assigns of the purchaser, all sums which may have been paid to the department on the purchase price of the lands, including the interest paid upon deferred payments, upon the presentation of a proper application for repayment, satisfactory proof and the surrender of the certificate; or if deed has been issued, upon reconveyance by executed and recorded quitclaim deed of whatever title or color of title was received from the state.

(3) Where a certificate of sale has been issued by the department upon a fraudulent application and the certificate is held by assignment by a third party who had no knowledge of the fraud at the time of assignment, the department may refund to the holder such sums as were paid the department on the purchase price of the lands covered by the certificate, including the interest paid upon deferred payments, upon the holder making proper application to the department for repayment and surrendering for cancellation the certificate and assignment. [Formerly 273.480; 1969 c.594 §24]

Source: Section 273.311 — Correction of deeds; refund of purchase price; refund to assignee of certificate of sale issued on fraudulent application , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.375 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.375
271.375 Public grazing lands
Status: in_force

The counties of the state are authorized to sell, convey, lease or exchange any or all county-owned lands chiefly suitable for grazing, to or with the state or each other and with the United States of America for other lands either of equal acreage or of equal value. All powers granted by this section to the several counties are in addition to and not in derogation of powers previously conferred by law. [Formerly 273.240; 1981 c.787 §34]

Source: Section 271.375 — Public grazing lands; sale; lease or exchange , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.040 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.040
274.040 Sale or lease of submersible lands
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in ORS 274.043 (Exemptions from leasing requirements) , in ORS 273.117 (Acquiring land as Common School Fund investment) for leases of submersible lands acquired as an investment for the Common School Fund, in ORS 274.530 (Lease or license of stream beds for removal of material) (1) for leases of submersible lands of less than one year’s duration, in ORS 274.530 (Lease or license of stream beds for removal of material) (3) for licenses of less than three years’ duration, in ORS 274.873 (Proprietary authorizations for ocean renewable energy facilities) for proprietary authorizations within Oregon’s territorial sea as defined in ORS 196.405 (Definitions for ORS 196.405 to 196.515) and in subsections (2) and (3) of this section, submersible lands owned by the State of Oregon may be leased only to the highest bidder, bidding at least the minimum amount designated by the Department of State Lands under subsection (6) of this section for the lease of any such lands, after being advertised not less than once each week for two successive weeks in one or more newspapers of general circulation in the county in which the lands are situated. However, any owner of lands abutting or fronting on such submersible lands shall have the preference right to lease the lands unless the submersible lands are occupied by a person claiming the right of occupancy under a conveyance recorded before January 1, 1981, from the present owner or predecessor in interest of lands abutting or fronting the submersible lands. If so, the occupant of the submersible lands shall have the preference right to lease the lands. An easement or license related to utility service on the submersible lands does not establish a preference right under this subsection. The lands shall be leased for the amount designated by the department under subsection (6) of this section as the minimum amount for the lease of any such lands. The preferences provided in this subsection apply to any lease of submersible land for one year or more offered or issued under ORS 274.530 (Lease or license of stream beds for removal of material) . The preferences provided in this subsection do not apply to any lease offered or issued by the department under ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) . The preference for the owner of lands provided in this subsection does not apply to the renewal of an existing lease where the lessee is in compliance with all the terms and conditions of the lease.

(2) Submersible lands owned by the State of Oregon that are determined by the State Land Board to be available for sale may be sold only to the highest bidder, after being advertised not less than once each week for two successive weeks in one or more newspapers of general circulation in the county in which the lands are situated. However:

(a) No such lands shall be sold for less than for a fair appraised value as determined by an appraiser appointed by the department.

(b) All sales of such submersible lands shall be approved by the State Land Board.

(c) Any owner of lands abutting or fronting on such submersible lands shall have the preference right to purchase such lands for the fair appraised value provided that the sale of such lands be approved by the State Land Board.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The department may grant, to any person holding a permit from the Water Resources Director authorizing the impoundment for beneficial use of the waters of any lake or stream, easements over submerged and submersible lands for flowage and storage of waters, and for the construction, maintenance and operation of any structures or facilities necessary for the use of the water under the terms of the permit upon payment of just compensation by the grantee.

(b) In addition to the authority of the department under paragraph (a) of this subsection to grant easements over submerged and submersible lands, a person holding a water right permit, water right certificate, proposed or final order approving a water right permit or court decree evidencing a water right may occupy state-owned submerged and submersible lands for the construction, maintenance and operation of any structure or facility necessary for the use of water if the proposed use under the permit, certificate, order or decree is for irrigation or domestic use. The department may not charge for the occupation of state-owned submerged and submersible lands pursuant to this paragraph, nor may the department require that a person obtain written documentation to substantiate the permission granted under this paragraph. Upon request by the Department of State Lands, the Water Resources Department shall provide information to the Department of State Lands regarding any change of use of the water right. A person may continue to occupy state-owned submerged and submersible lands pursuant to this paragraph until:

(A) The water right permit is canceled pursuant to ORS 537.260 (Cancellation of permit for failure of proof of completion of appropriation) ;

(B) The water right is canceled pursuant to ORS 540.641 (Protest of cancellation) ; or

(C) The water is no longer being applied to irrigation or domestic use.

(c) An easement or the permission granted under this subsection may not be construed to be a sale or lease of the submerged and submersible lands within the meaning of subsections (1) and (2) of this section.

(d) A person granted an easement or permission to use or occupy state-owned submerged and submersible lands under this subsection shall indemnify and hold harmless the state from all liability and claims arising from or attributable to the use or occupation.

(4) All easements or the permission granted pursuant to subsection (3) of this section shall be subject to conditions that will ensure the safety of the public and the preservation of economic, scenic and recreational values and to lawful rules promulgated by state agencies affected by the activities of the grantee.

(5) Nothing in this section affects the provisions of ORS 509.505 (Placing in water matter injurious to shellfish) , 509.510 (Taking shellfish from marked beds without permission) , 511.606 (Taking food fish for commercial purposes in Nestucca Bay prohibited) to 511.806 (Taking salmon, shad, striped bass or sturgeon for commercial purposes in Willamette River prohibited) , 622.270 (Reports of cultivators) or 622.320 (Plats as private property) to 622.350 (Prior claims, plats, transfers or debts unaffected) .

(6) The Department of State Lands shall designate the minimum acceptable amount for the lease of any submerged and submersible lands otherwise authorized by law, other than any lease offered or issued by the department under ORS 274.705 (Definitions for ORS 274.705 to 274.860) to 274.860 (Protection and location of filled lands) .

(7) For the purpose of sale, the value of state-owned submerged and submersible lands shall be determined by an appraiser appointed by the department.

(8) The act of any person entering into an agreement with the department under this section or ORS 274.530 (Lease or license of stream beds for removal of material) for the lease of submerged and submersible lands shall not be considered a waiver by such person of any claim of ownership in the submerged and submersible lands described in the agreement. [Amended by 1961 c.37 §1; subsection (3) enacted as 1961 c.37 §2; 1967 c.421 §104; 1969 c.594 §32; subsection (4) enacted as 1969 c.675 §17; 1975 c.547 §1; 1975 c.765 §2; 1979 c.793 §3; 1981 c.158 §1; 1981 c.432 §1; 1991 c.217 §5; 1995 c.113 §2; 2003 c.350 §1; 2011 c.713 §1; 2015 c.386 §7]

Source: Section 274.040 — Sale or lease of submersible lands; easements; occupation of submerged and submersible lands for water works , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.573 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.573
273.573 Natural areas advisory committee
Status: in_force

(1) To aid and advise the State Parks and Recreation Director in the performance of the functions related to the Natural Areas Program, the director may establish a natural areas advisory committee.

(2) The advisory committee may assist the State Parks and Recreation Department:

(a) In the development of policy for the Natural Areas Program through the review and approval of the Oregon Natural Areas Plan;

(b) By reviewing nominations for registration and the voluntary dedication of natural areas, and instruments of dedication for such areas;

(c) In providing recommendations to the State Parks and Recreation Commission, State Land Board, State Board of Forestry, State Fish and Wildlife Commission, public universities listed in ORS 352.002 (Public universities) and Oregon Transportation Commission regarding areas under their respective jurisdictions that are appropriate for dedication; and

(d) In advising the State Parks and Recreation Commission in the adoption of rules that may be considered necessary in carrying out ORS 273.563 (Definitions for ORS 273.563 to 273.591) to 273.591 (Natural Areas Program Account) .

(3) Members of the advisory committee are not entitled to compensation, but in the discretion of the director may be reimbursed from funds available to the department for actual and necessary travel and other expenses incurred by them in the performance of their official duties in the manner and amount provided in ORS 292.495 (Compensation and expenses of members of state boards and commissions) . [2011 c.319 §9; 2015 c.767 §74]

Source: Section 273.573 — Natural areas advisory committee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.040 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.040
275.040 Conveyance pursuant to ORS 275.030
Status: in_force

The conveyance transferring the real estate sold pursuant to ORS 275.030 (Sale of real estate not in use for county purposes) to the purchaser thereof shall contain the date of the order authorizing such sale and the page and journal where the order is entered. The conveyance shall be signed by the county judge or the chairperson of the board of county commissioners and acknowledged in the manner provided by law for acknowledgment of other conveyances of real estate. A conveyance so made conveys all the interest of the county in the property described therein. [Amended by 1983 c.537 §2]

Source: Section 275.040 — Conveyance pursuant to ORS 275.030 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.296 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.296
275.296 Validation of certain conveyances prior to August 3, 1955
Status: in_force

All leases and conveyances granting the right to explore or prospect for minerals or oil and gas and for the mining and removal of the same on or from county-owned lands, executed and delivered by the governing body of a county prior to August 3, 1955, and which might be invalid only because the governing body of the county was not expressly authorized by statute to execute and deliver such leases or conveyances, hereby are validated and declared to be legal and enforceable. [1955 c.150 §3; 2005 c.243 §21]

Source: Section 275.296 — Validation of certain conveyances prior to August 3, 1955 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.090 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.090
275.090 Powers of county as to lands acquired on foreclosure of tax liens, or by exchange, devise or gift
Status: in_force

The governing body of each county shall have the following powers and duties with respect to all lands acquired by the county by foreclosure of delinquent tax liens, or by exchange, devise or gift:

(1) To protect such lands from fire, disease and insect pests, to cooperate with the United States of America, the State of Oregon, and with the agencies of both, with persons owning lands within such counties, and with other counties of the State of Oregon in the protection of such county-owned lands and to enter into all agreements necessary or convenient therefor.

(2) To sell, exchange, and lease such lands or any portion of or interest in the same less than the whole fee.

(3) To grant easements and rights of way over, through and across such lands.

(4) To reforest cut-over or burned-over timberlands and to cooperate with the United States of America, the State of Oregon and the agencies of both, and with other counties of the State of Oregon, and with persons, firms and corporations owning timberlands within such county in such reforestation and to make all agreements necessary or convenient therefor.

(5) To make all rules and regulations, not inconsistent with law, necessary or convenient for the protection, administration, operation, conveyance, leasing and acquisition of lands.

(6) To employ such assistance as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of ORS 275.090 (Powers of county as to lands acquired on foreclosure of tax liens, or by exchange, devise or gift) to 275.316 (Notice of hearing) and to cooperate with other counties in this state in such employment. [Amended by 1969 c.595 §10; 2005 c.243 §12]

Source: Section 275.090 — Powers of county as to lands acquired on foreclosure of tax liens, or by exchange, devise or gift , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.895 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.895
274.895 Removing kelp without lease
Status: in_force

Except in the case of a person harvesting or removing less than 2,000 pounds of wet kelp each year for the purposes of human consumption for the person’s personal use, a person may not harvest or remove any kelp or other seaweed from any submerged lands owned by the State of Oregon unless the person has first obtained a lease from the Department of State Lands. [Formerly 274.030; 1967 c.421 §174; 2011 c.713 §5]

SUBMERSIBLE, SUBMERGED AND NEW LANDS

Source: Section 274.895 — Removing kelp without lease , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.563 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.563
273.563 Definitions for ORS 273.563 to 273.591
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 273.563 (Definitions for ORS 273.563 to 273.591) to 273.591 (Natural Areas Program Account) , unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Agency” means a local, state or federal agency, board, commission or department.

(2) “Candidate natural area” means a natural resource area that may be considered for registration or dedication.

(3) “Commodity” means timber, minerals, livestock, agricultural products or any other product of the land which is an important economic resource.

(4) “Data bank” means the Natural Areas Program inventory of natural heritage resources classification, data analysis, priority setting, owner and other data maintained by the Institute for Natural Resources under ORS 352.808 (Institute for Natural Resources) .

(5) “Dedicate” means the formal recognition and protection of a natural area for conservation purposes.

(6) “Instrument” means any written document intended to convey an interest in real property under ORS 93.710 (Instruments or memoranda creating certain interests in realty) , or an agreement between parties according to the Natural Areas Program or the Oregon Natural Areas Plan.

(7) “Natural area” means a unit of land or water or both that may be considered for dedication under ORS 273.563 (Definitions for ORS 273.563 to 273.591) to 273.591 (Natural Areas Program Account) and that has substantially retained its natural character, or, if altered in character, shall in addition to its natural heritage resource values, be valuable as habitat for plant and animal species or for the study and appreciation of the natural features.

(8) “Natural heritage resources” means the terrestrial ecosystem types, aquatic ecosystem types and unique geologic types as defined in the Oregon Natural Areas Plan or a unit of land or water that contains a natural resource.

(9) “Plan” means the Oregon Natural Areas Plan established under ORS 273.578 (Plan approval) , which governs the Natural Areas Program in selecting natural areas for conservation.

(10) “Program” means the Natural Areas Program as established in ORS 273.566 (Legislative findings) .

(11) “Register” means the Oregon Register of Natural Areas established under ORS 273.581 (Natural areas register) .

(12) “Special species” means those species of plants and animals determined by the State Parks and Recreation Department to be significant in value in a state natural area and defined in the Oregon Natural Areas Plan.

(13) “State natural area” means an area that an individual, organization or public agency dedicates as a state natural area under ORS 273.586 (Dedication of land as state natural area) . [1983 c.786 §2; 2001 c.114 §1; 2003 c.661 §1; 2009 c.217 §1; 2011 c.319 §10]

Source: Section 273.563 — Definitions for ORS 273.563 to 273.591 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.560 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.560
274.560 Lease terms
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of State Lands may enter into contract of lease for purposes of ORS 274.525 (City use of stream bed material) to 274.590 (Cooperation with Washington authorities respecting removal of material from bed of Columbia River) with such stipulations protecting the interest of the state as the department may require, and may require a bond with a surety company authorized to transact a surety business in this state, as surety, or other form of security, to be given by the lessee for performance of such stipulations, and providing for forfeiture for nonpayment or failure to operate under the contract. No contract shall be entered into giving any person an option of leasing or purchasing the property of the State of Oregon. The lessee in all such contracts shall report monthly to the department the amount of material taken under the contract and pay to the department the amount of royalty thereon provided in the contract.

(2) The department shall adopt rules to establish criteria to determine when security is required. [Amended by 1965 c.375 §1; 1967 c.421 §147; 1969 c.594 §45; 1991 c.264 §1]

Source: Section 274.560 — Lease terms; bond or security; prohibited lease or purchase option; monthly reports and payments; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.210 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.210
271.210 Hearing
Status: in_force

Hearing upon the petition shall be had by the city governing body at its next regular meeting following the expiration of 30 days from the filing of the petition. At that time objections to the granting of the whole or any part of the petition shall be duly heard and considered by the governing body, which shall thereupon, or at any later time to which the hearing is postponed or adjourned, pass by a majority vote an ordinance setting forth the property to be vacated, or other rights, occupancy or use to be thereby granted. Upon the expiration of 30 days from the passage of the ordinance and the approval thereof by the mayor of the city or town, the ordinance shall be in full force and effect.

Source: Section 271.210 — Hearing; grant of petition , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.775 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.775
271.775 Rules governing conservation and highway scenic preservation easements
Status: in_force

The board or officer administering a state agency or the governing body of any county, metropolitan service district, soil and water conservation district, city or park and recreation district or of a county service district established under ORS 451.410 (Definitions for ORS 451.410 to 451.610) to 451.610 (Advisory committee for emergency communications system) to construct, maintain and operate service facilities in Washington or Clackamas County for the purposes specified in ORS 451.010 (Authorization to establish master plans and service districts) (1)(a) and (b) and in Washington County for the purpose specified in ORS 451.010 (Authorization to establish master plans and service districts) (5) may make and enforce reasonable rules, regulations, orders or ordinances governing the care, use and management of its conservation easements and highway scenic preservation easements. [1983 c.642 §7; 1985 c.160 §8; 1999 c.208 §4; 2003 c.467 §4; 2005 c.368 §4; 2023 c.9 §15]

Source: Section 271.775 — Rules governing conservation and highway scenic preservation easements , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.541 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.541
273.541 Execution and delivery of instruments
Status: in_force

All documents required in carrying out ORS 273.522 (Definition for “forest products.”) to 273.541 (Execution and delivery of instruments) shall be executed by the Director of the Department of State Lands, and all bonds, contracts and other instruments required by ORS 273.522 (Definition for “forest products.”) to 273.541 (Execution and delivery of instruments) for the protection of the interests of the state shall be delivered to the Department of State Lands. [Formerly 273.325]

Source: Section 273.541 — Execution and delivery of instruments , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 274.845 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 274 / Section 274.845
274.845 Surrender of lease
Status: in_force

The lessee may at any time file with the Department of State Lands a written surrender of all rights under the lease or any portion thereof or any separate or distinct zone or geological horizon or any portion thereof. Such surrender shall be effective as of the date of its filing subject to the continuing obligation of the lessee to pay all rentals and royalties theretofore accrued and to place all wells on the lands or in the zones or horizons surrendered in condition for suspension or abandonment in accordance with the applicable lease terms, regulations and law. Thereupon the lessee shall be released from all obligations under such lease with respect to the lands, zones or horizons surrendered, but no such surrender shall release such lessee from any liability for breach of any monetary obligation of the lease with respect to which such lessee is in default at the time of the filing of such surrender. [1961 c.619 §24]

Source: Section 274.845 — Surrender of lease , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors274.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 270.165 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 270 / Section 270.165
270.165 Grants of easements in public interest
Status: in_force

The Oregon Department of Administrative Services acting on behalf of the State of Oregon may grant an easement or right of way on any real property under its control if the department determines that the easement or right of way would be in the public interest. [Formerly 273.639]

Source: Section 270.165 — Grants of easements in public interest , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors270.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 275.070 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 275 / Section 275.070
275.070 Sale or donation to United States, state, government corporation or Indian tribe
Status: in_force

(1) Any county governing body may grant an option to purchase, contract to sell, sell and convey, or donate any real property owned by the county, including real property acquired pursuant to tax foreclosure proceedings, at such price and on such terms as the county governing body may deem to be for the best interests of the county to:

(a) The United States;

(b) The State of Oregon;

(c) A corporation, the majority of whose capital stock is owned by the United States; or

(d) An eligible Indian tribe, as defined in ORS 307.181 (Land acquired or owned by Indian tribe) .

(2) The resolution of the county governing body to grant an option to purchase, contract to sell, sell and convey, or donate described in subsection (1) of this section must be entered by the governing body upon its journal and any option to purchase, contract to sell, sale and conveyance, or donation executed pursuant to this section must be signed on behalf of the county by the county judge or the chairperson of the board of county commissioners and acknowledged in the manner prescribed by law.

(3) The county governing body may receive as partial or full consideration for any sale or conveyance under this section, other real property or stumpage at a value determined by inspection and appraisal made by the county governing body or by a board of three appraisers appointed by the governing body. [Amended by 1983 c.537 §3; 2015 c.354 §1]

Source: Section 275.070 — Sale or donation to United States, state, government corporation or Indian tribe; procedure , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors275.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 273.553 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 273 / Section 273.553
273.553 South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve
Status: in_force

(1) It is the policy of the State of Oregon to maintain an estuarine research reserve in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The estuarine research reserve management area includes:

(a) Lands acquired as the South Slough Estuary Sanctuary pursuant to chapter 415, Oregon Laws 1975, designated as the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve by federal law (P.L. 99-272); and

(b) Lands owned or managed by the Department of State Lands that the department determines contribute to the management policy of subsection (2) of this section.

(2) The management policy for the estuarine research reserve management area is to:

(a) Maintain the integrity of the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve;

(b) Protect the reserve from uses and activities, both within and beyond its boundaries, that may alter or affect the ecosystem and its natural dynamic processes; and

(c) Preserve the reserve for long-term scientific and educational uses.

(3) The department acts for the State of Oregon in any transaction respecting the purchase of acreage for the reserve on or after October 4, 1977. The department may acquire lands for the reserve management area.

(4) Except as necessary to achieve the policy set forth in subsection (2) of this section and any standards established in the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (P.L. 92-583) or any rules, regulations or agreements adopted pursuant thereto, the estuarine research reserve management area is open to the public. However, to protect the estuarine ecosystems, public use of the reserve management area may be limited and controlled by the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Commission in consultation with any technical management team established pursuant to an agreement between the State of Oregon and the Office for Coastal Management of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the United States Department of Commerce. The commission shall adopt rules to carry out the intent of this subsection.

(5) The South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Commission shall administer the reserve management area, subject to any agreement respecting the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve between the State of Oregon and the federal Office for Coastal Management.

(6) The agency that acquired title to the reserve management area shall cause title to be cleared in the name of the State of Oregon. [1977 c.496 §1; 2003 c.14 §134; 2021 c.139 §1]

Source: Section 273.553 — South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve; agreement between Oregon and federal government; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors273.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 271.120 — OR Code / Title 25 / Chapter 271 / Section 271.120
271.120 Hearing
Status: in_force

At the time fixed by the governing body for hearing the petition and any objections filed thereto or at any postponement or continuance of such matter, the governing body shall hear the petition and objections and shall determine whether the consent of the owners of the requisite area has been obtained, whether notice has been duly given and whether the public interest will be prejudiced by the vacation of such plat or street or parts thereof. If such matters are determined in favor of the petition the governing body shall by ordinance make such determination a matter of record and vacate such plat or street; otherwise it shall deny the petition. The governing body may, upon hearing, grant the petition in part and deny it in part, and make such reservations, or either, as appear to be for the public interest.

Source: Section 271.120 — Hearing; determination , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors271.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).