Bill > SB59

This bill amends Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 94.779 to expand homeowners' rights in planned communities by making provisions that prohibit gardening, hen-keeping, or beekeeping void and unenforceable, with the caveat that such food production activities must still be performed competently and in compliance with applicable laws and ordinances. The bill builds upon existing provisions that have previously invalidated certain homeowners association (HOA) restrictions, such as those related to water conservation, family childcare homes, and portable cooling devices. Specifically, the new section (7) ensures that residents of planned communities cannot be prevented from growing food, raising hens, or keeping bees on their lots, though HOAs can still require that these activities be conducted responsibly. This legislation appears intended to promote local food production, self-sufficiency, and residents' rights to use their property for agricultural purposes, while maintaining community standards and preventing potential nuisances through the requirement of proficient and lawful practices.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB59