Short-term Rentals Laws in Oregon, United States

Oregon Regulation

Oregon has no statewide short-term rental license; cities and counties set the rules, and Portland requires a resident in the home most of the year. Stays owe a 1.5% state lodging tax, rising to 2.75% in January 2027.

Is there a statewide definition of STR?

In Oregon, there isn't a singular statewide definition of short-term rentals (STRs) that applies across all jurisdictions, short-term rental (STR) regulations vary by locality, reflecting the diverse approaches taken by different cities and counties within the state.

In Eugene, a short-term rental is defined similarly to other jurisdictions, focusing on rentals of fewer than 30 consecutive days. Key regulations include the requirement for the owner/operator to register the STR, providing their name, the rental address, whether the rental is owner-occupied, and local contact information. This registration process is mandatory within the city limits of Eugene.

Dayton follows its own set of regulations which typically include local zoning ordinances, permitting requirements, and specific operational guidelines to ensure STRs are integrated into the community without causing disruptions. These regulations often cover aspects such as occupancy limits, safety standards, and tax obligations.

In Salem, the regulations are geared towards maintaining neighborhood integrity and safety. The city requires STR operators to obtain a permit, adhere to zoning laws, and comply with health and safety standards. This includes ensuring that the property has the necessary safety equipment like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and maintaining insurance coverage appropriate for STR use.

While the City of Portland defines a short-term rental as a home or a portion of a home rented for fewer than 31 consecutive days and has detailed rules regarding residency requirements, occupancy limits, and permitting, Washington County currently does not regulate STRs due to financial constraints and other priorities despite community discussions about potential regulations.

statewide registration requirement
Statewide Registration Requirement

Oregon does not have a specific statewide registration requirement for short-term rentals (STRs) that applies uniformly across all jurisdictions within the state. Instead, the regulation and taxation of STRs, including registration requirements, are primarily managed at the local level by individual cities and counties. This means that the rules regarding STRs can vary significantly from one location to another within Oregon.

What is the length of stay of Short-term Rentals in Oregon?

The length of stay that defines a short-term rental (STR) is generally considered to be less than 30 nights. This duration categorizes the accommodation as transient lodging, distinguishing it from longer-term rentals. Such a definition is consistent across various local jurisdictions within the state, although specific regulations regarding short-term rentals, including length of stay, can vary by city or county.

Statewide Tax Requirement

Oregon charges a 1.5% state transient lodging tax, rising to 2.75% for amounts charged from January 1, 2027. Cities and counties add their own lodging taxes. Whoever collects payment remits the tax: Airbnb and Vrbo on their bookings, the host on direct bookings. State returns are filed quarterly through Revenue Online.

For details, visit the Oregon Department of Revenue.

Disclaimer

Lodge Compliance is not a licensed tax or financial advisor. Therefore nothing in the above article should be construed as tax, legal, or financial advice. Contact your local tax office for information regarding your personal circumstance.

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