Sauvie Island, OR. — Oregon lawmakers and agricultural leaders gathered on Sauvie Island for the ceremonial signing of House Bill 4153, a measure aimed at expanding opportunities for family farms statewide.
The bill, signed by Governor Tina Kotek at Topaz Farm, establishes a new “farm store” permit designed to modernize regulations that have historically limited on-farm retail and agritourism activities. The legislation passed with strong bipartisan support during the 2026 short legislative session.
Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson (R-Prineville), the bill’s chief sponsor, said the measure reflects broad collaboration across Oregon’s agricultural sector and state agencies.
“Agriculture collectively provides the largest economic impact to Oregon. It is the foundation of our state,” Breese-Iverson said. “Signing HB 4153 into law secures a future for family farms in Oregon.”
Under the new law, farms will be allowed to operate designated farm stores where they can sell their own products alongside goods from other local producers. The permit also allows limited agritourism activities such as pumpkin patches, corn mazes, flower festivals, and farm tours.
Supporters say the change addresses longstanding restrictions that, in some cases, prohibited family friendly structures, imposed strict income limits, or barred educational events on farmland.
The bill also establishes clearer regulatory authority for counties, including rules governing parking, traffic access, hours of operation, sanitation, noise, and public safety. It explicitly prohibits converting farm stores into uses such as residences, hotels, cafés, or drive-through businesses.
HB 4153 was developed through a coalition that included the Oregon Department of Agriculture, Department of Land Conservation and Development, Oregon Farm Bureau, Association of Oregon Counties, and property owner groups, along with input from farmers across the state.
The new farm store permit framework is scheduled to take effect January 1, 2027.
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