You probably have good reasons for wanting to minimize the offensive odors released from your confined animal operations. The operation and its surroundings are more pleasant for you as operator, for your family, and for visitors or neighbors. Frequently occurring odors can lead to complaints by neighbors. If you don't provide relief voluntarily, you could face court litigation. Neither Oregon nor federal regulations limit the amount of nontoxic odor that can be released to the atmosphere from an animal operation.
Private regulation occurs indirectly through the nuisance law.
Of common-law origin and similar in all states, the nuisance law is based on the right held by all landowners to be free from unreasonable interference with the enjoyment of their property. Unreasonable interference with such enjoyment, as might be caused by offensive odors, is one kind of nuisance. Locate new facilities in an area designated for agriculture in the land use plan. Avoid sites adjacent to recreational, commercial, or residential areas. Land next to a public gathering place such as a school or church is unacceptable.