In basic terms, whenever money, credit, or something of value changes hands based on the reading of a farm or ranch scale, that scale is being used commercially in Oregon. This applies to the sale of commodities, supplies, produce, livestock, etc. The licensing requirement applies to any and all types of weighing devices or scales used on a farm for commercial purposes. The annual license period for scales and weighing devices in Oregon is July 1 through June 30 of the following year.
Scales are to be licensed prior to use.
Annual renewal notices are mailed out each year in mid-May preceding their June 30 expiration date. Farm or ranch scales licensed for use beginning other than July 1 pay the full annual license fee. There is no prorating of fees for scales first licensed at mid-year or in the spring, since the cost of official field certification remains the same. ORS 561.300 Provides for the Department of Agriculture to collect a delinquent renewal penalty fee if the licensee fails to renew the license before the 60th day after the license expiration date. Renewals cannot be processed until delinquent fees are paid.