Oregon

(OR)

Oregon gun laws rated restrictive. Comprehensive guide to firearms regulations, permits, and restrictions.

Last updated: December 27, 2025

Rating

2/5

Restrictive

✗

Permitless Carry

∞

No Limit

✓

No AWB

No Wait

See also: Federal gun laws that apply in every state. · Video guides for Oregon gun laws →

Oregon Gun Laws in Plain English

In Oregon, you generally have the right to buy and carry firearms, but you must follow strict rules regarding background checks and storage. You must go through a dealer for every sale, even to friends. While a law was passed to ban large magazines and require a purchase permit, a court has blocked it, so you don't need a permit to buy right now. However, you must lock up your guns when not in use, and you cannot possess home-built 'ghost guns' without serial numbers.

Critical: Oregon Gun Law Gotchas

These are the most important things to know that could get you arrested or charged with a crime:

#1Possessing an unserialized frame or receiver (ghost gun) is a crime as of Sept 1, 2024, under HB 2005 (ORS 166.250).
#2Portland and Multnomah County ban loaded open carry unless you have a Concealed Handgun License (ORS 166.173).
#3You cannot carry in the Portland International Airport (PDX) terminal, even with a permit (Local Ordinance).
#4Private transfers to friends require a background check at a gun store; only close family is exempt (ORS 166.435).
#5If your gun is stolen, you commit a violation if you fail to report it within 72 hours (ORS 166.397).
#6Marijuana use makes you a prohibited person federally, even though it is legal in Oregon (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3)).
#7School Boards can now ban Concealed Handgun License holders from school grounds; check local district policies (SB 554).
#8The State Capitol building is a statutorily prohibited place for carry (ORS 166.370).
#9You are liable if a minor gets your unsecured gun and causes injury (ORS 166.395).
#10Measure 114 is 'on the books' but enjoined; do not be confused by outdated news saying it is in effect.
#11A 'loaded' firearm in a vehicle is considered concealed carry if not visible; without a license, it must be unloaded/in trunk (ORS 166.250).
#12You cannot carry in a 'public building' (like a city hall) if the local authority has banned it and posted signs (SB 554).

Read these carefully - they cover common mistakes that lead to felony charges.

Common Scenarios

Quick answers to the most frequently asked questions about Oregon gun laws.

Can I keep a gun in my car?

Concealed carry in a vehicle requires a CHL. Open carry (visible) is legal unless in a locality that bans loaded carry (like Portland).

ORS § 166.250(1)(b)

Can I defend my home?

Oregon has a castle doctrine law that removes the duty to retreat when a person is in their dwelling and not the initial aggressor, but it does not include a presumption of reasonable fear or extend to vehicles or workplaces.

ORS § 161.219

Can I stand my ground?

Oregon does not have a stand your ground law; a person generally has a duty to retreat before using deadly force in public places if they can do so with complete safety.

ORS § 161.219

Can I carry without a permit?

Shall Issue.

ORS § 166.291

Can I carry on college campus?

State law allows universities to ban carry. Most (like U of O, OSU) have banned it.

ORS § 166.377

Can I buy a gun online?

Legal, but must be shipped to an Oregon FFL for the background check.

ORS § 166.435

Can I own a suppressor?

Legal if compliant with federal NFA (tax stamp, registration).

ORS § 166.272

Can I own standard capacity magazines?

Measure 114 created a 10-round limit, but it is currently ENJOINED by state court (Arnold v. Brown). It is not currently enforced.

Ballot Measure 114 § 11

Detailed Law Topics

Comprehensive breakdown of Oregon's firearms regulations by category.

Carrying & TransportConcealed carry, open carry, vehicle carry, sensitive places

Does FOPA safe passage apply when traveling through Oregon?

Federal FOPA protects travelers passing through.

“entitled to transport a firearm... from any place where he may lawfully possess and carry such firearm to any other place where he may lawfully possess and carry such firearm”

18 U.S.C. § 926A

Is open carry legal in Oregon?

Generally legal statewide, BUT localities (Portland, Beaverton, etc.) can and do ban loaded open carry without a CHL.

“A city or county may adopt an ordinance to regulate, restrict or prohibit the possession of a loaded firearm... in a public place”

ORS § 166.173

Legal

Can I fly with a firearm from Oregon?

Standard TSA rules apply. Portland (PDX) ordinance prohibits carry in the terminal.

“Carriage of weapons, explosives, and incendiaries by individuals”

49 CFR § 1540.111

Can I carry without a permit in Oregon?

Shall Issue.

“The sheriff... shall issue”

ORS § 166.291

How do I get a concealed carry permit in Oregon?

Shall Issue. Processed by County Sheriff.

“The sheriff of a county... shall issue a concealed handgun license if the applicant...”

ORS § 166.291

Can I carry on college campus in Oregon?

State law allows universities to ban carry. Most (like U of O, OSU) have banned it.

“The governing board of a public university... may adopt a policy providing that... the possession of a firearm... is prohibited”

ORS § 166.377

What are the school zone gun laws in Oregon?

CHL holders are exempt from the state school zone ban, but individual districts may have policies for students/staff. (Note: SB 554 allows districts to ban carry by non-students/staff on grounds, but the CHL exemption in 166.370(3)(g) is robust for mere possession, though 'affirmative defense' language is tricky. SB 554 gave boards power to ban). *Correction*: SB 554 (2021) amended 166.370 to allow school boards to ban CHL carry. Most have.

“Does not apply to... A person who is licensed under ORS 166.291 and 166.292 to carry a concealed handgun”

ORS § 166.370(3)(g)

Can I keep a loaded gun in my car in Oregon?

Concealed carry in a vehicle requires a CHL. Open carry (visible) is legal unless in a locality that bans loaded carry (like Portland).

“Unlawful possession... if the person knowingly... Carries any firearm concealed upon the person or within any vehicle which is under the person's control or direction”

ORS § 166.250(1)(b)

Can I carry in national parks in Oregon?

Allowed if legal in the state (CHL required for concealed). Buildings are off-limits.

“shall not promulgate or enforce any regulation that prohibits an individual from possessing a firearm... if... the individual is not otherwise prohibited by law from possessing the firearm”

54 U.S.C. § 104906

Where can't I carry a gun in Oregon?

Courthouses, correctional facilities, and the State Capitol (SB 554). Localities may designate other public buildings.

“Any person who intentionally possesses a loaded or unloaded firearm... in a court facility... [or] public building”

ORS § 166.370

How do I transport firearms in Oregon?

Without a CHL, handguns must be not concealed (open) or not accessible (trunk). Rifles/shotguns can be transported but should be unloaded to avoid hunting violations.

“Exceptions... To any person who is licensed... To any person transporting a rifle or shotgun... if the firearm is unloaded and concealed in a locked trunk”

ORS § 166.250

Weapons & AccessoriesWhat you can own: rifles, magazines, suppressors, SBRs

Are short-barreled rifles legal in Oregon?

Legal if compliant with federal NFA.

“unless the person is registered... under federal law”

ORS § 166.272

Are ghost guns legal in Oregon?

HB 2005 (2023) banned the possession of unserialized frames and receivers effective Sept 1, 2024.

“A person commits the crime of unlawful possession of a firearm if the person knowingly... possesses a firearm that is not imprinted with a serial number”

ORS § 166.250 (as amended by HB 2005)

Are suppressors legal in Oregon?

Legal if compliant with federal NFA (tax stamp, registration).

“unless the person is registered... under federal law”

ORS § 166.272

Does Oregon require firearm serialization?

All firearms, including home-built ones, must have a serial number imprinted by an FFL.

“firearm that is not imprinted with a serial number by a federally licensed firearm manufacturer”

ORS § 166.250 (HB 2005)

Required

Does Oregon require microstamping?

No microstamping requirement.

“No microstamping statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Not Required

Are muzzle devices legal in Oregon?

Legal if registered under NFA.

“A person commits the crime of unlawful possession of a machine gun, short-barreled rifle, short-barreled shotgun or silencer unless the person is registered... under federal law”

ORS § 166.272

What are the assault weapon laws in Oregon?

No state ban on 'assault weapons'.

“No assault weapon ban”

ORS Chapter 166

Does Oregon have a magazine capacity limit?

Measure 114 created a 10-round limit, but it is currently ENJOINED by state court (Arnold v. Brown). It is not currently enforced.

“A person commits the crime of unlawful manufacture, importation, possession... of large-capacity magazines [over 10 rounds]”

Ballot Measure 114 § 11

Enjoined

What are the compliance methods for firearms in Oregon?

null

N/A

Ownership & PossessionRegistration, storage requirements, private transfers

Does Oregon require firearm registration?

Oregon law explicitly prohibits a state registry (though OSP keeps transaction records for 5 years).

“The state may not... Establish or maintain any form of firearm registration”

ORS § 166.412(7)(a)

Not Required

Does Oregon require safe storage of firearms?

Mandatory storage law (SB 554). Guns must be secured when not under control of the owner.

“A person... shall secure the firearm with a trigger or cable lock, in a locked container or in a gun room”

ORS § 166.395

Does Oregon have red flag laws?

Yes, Oregon has Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO).

“A law enforcement officer or a family or household member of a respondent may file a petition requesting that the court issue an extreme risk protection order”

ORS § 166.525

What do I need to know about bringing guns when moving to Oregon?

No registration required for new residents bringing personally owned firearms.

“No new resident statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Do I have to report a stolen gun in Oregon?

Must report theft/loss within 72 hours.

“A person who owns... a firearm shall report the loss or theft of the firearm to a law enforcement agency... within 72 hours”

ORS § 166.397

Required

How do private firearm transfers work in Oregon?

Private transfers must be facilitated by an FFL with a background check.

“A transferor may not transfer a firearm to a transferee unless the transferor... appears with the transferee in person before a gun dealer”

ORS § 166.435

Can I lend a firearm to a family member in Oregon?

Exemptions exist for close family members (spouse, parent, child, sibling).

“The requirements of this section do not apply to... A transfer to a spouse or domestic partner... or a transfer to a parent, stepparent, child, stepchild, sibling”

ORS § 166.435(4)(c)

Does Oregon require firearm insurance?

No state mandate for liability insurance.

“No insurance statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

What are the child access prevention laws in Oregon?

Strict liability if a minor obtains an unsecured firearm.

“If a minor obtains an unsecured firearm... the owner of the firearm may be found liable”

ORS § 166.395

Eligibility & ProhibitionsWho can and cannot own firearms

Can marijuana users own firearms in Oregon?

Federal law prohibits possession by unlawful users of controlled substances. Marijuana remains federally illegal.

“who is an unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance (as defined in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802))”

18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3)

Can non-citizens own firearms in Oregon?

Illegal aliens are prohibited. Legal permanent residents may purchase.

“who, being an alien... is illegally or unlawfully in the United States”

18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(5)

Can I buy from a private seller in Oregon?

Universal Background Checks are required. All private transfers must be processed through a licensed dealer (FFL).

“A transferor may not transfer a firearm to a transferee unless the transferor... appears with the transferee in person before a gun dealer... and the gun dealer requests a criminal history record check”

ORS § 166.435

What are straw purchase laws in Oregon?

Illegal under both federal and state law to purchase a firearm for a prohibited person.

“A person commits the crime of providing a firearm to a person prohibited... if the person sells, delivers or otherwise transfers a firearm to a person who the transferor knows or has good reason to believe is prohibited”

ORS § 166.416

Can someone with a domestic violence conviction own a gun in Oregon?

Yes, Oregon law explicitly prohibits possession for qualifying misdemeanor domestic violence convictions.

“It is unlawful for a person to knowingly possess a firearm or ammunition if... The person has been convicted of a qualifying misdemeanor and, at the time of the offense, the person was a family or household member of the victim”

ORS § 166.255(1)(b)

How do background checks work in Oregon?

Oregon is a Point of Contact (POC) state. Dealers contact the Oregon State Police (OSP) Firearms Instant Check System (FICS).

“The dealer shall request by telephone that the Department of State Police conduct a criminal history record check on the purchaser”

ORS § 166.412

Who is prohibited from owning firearms in Oregon?

Oregon prohibits possession by those committed to the Oregon Health Authority for mental illness, even if not federally prohibited, and minors under 18 (with exceptions).

“A person commits the crime of unlawful possession of a firearm if the person knowingly... Possesses a firearm and... Was committed to the Oregon Health Authority under ORS 426.130”

ORS § 166.250(1)(c)

Who is prohibited from owning firearms under federal law?

Felons, fugitives, unlawful users of controlled substances, those adjudicated as mental defectives, illegal aliens, dishonorable discharges, and those subject to certain restraining orders.

“It shall be unlawful for any person... who has been convicted in any court of, a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year... to ship or transport in interstate or foreign commerce, or possess in or affecting commerce, any firearm or ammunition”

18 U.S.C. § 922(g)

Buying & Acquiring FirearmsHow to purchase, waiting periods, background checks

What is the minimum age to buy a gun in Oregon?

18 for rifles/shotguns, 21 for handguns.

“A person commits the crime of unlawfully purchasing a firearm if the person... is under 18 years of age... or is under 21 years of age and attempts to purchase a handgun”

ORS § 166.470

Is there a waiting period to buy a gun in Oregon?

No statutory fixed waiting period, but transfer cannot proceed until OSP approves or the 'Charleston Loophole' window passes (though many dealers wait for approval).

“If the department fails to provide a unique approval number to a gun dealer... the gun dealer may deliver the firearm”

ORS § 166.412(3)(c)

Does Oregon have a handgun roster?

No handgun roster exists in Oregon.

“No roster statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Oregon?

Technically law under Measure 114, but currently ENJOINED by state court order (Arnold v. Brown). No permit is currently required to purchase.

“A person may not purchase or acquire a firearm unless the person has a permit to purchase”

Ballot Measure 114 § 4

Not RequiredEnjoined

Can I buy a gun online in Oregon?

Legal, but must be shipped to an Oregon FFL for the background check.

“A transferor may not transfer a firearm to a transferee unless... [processed by] a gun dealer”

ORS § 166.435

Legal

Are there gun purchase limits in Oregon?

No rationing of firearm purchases.

“No limit statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Are there ammunition restrictions in Oregon?

No state restrictions on ammunition quantity or type (other than armor-piercing prohibitions).

“No ammo statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Can I buy a gun out of state in Oregon?

Residents may buy long guns in other states if compliant with both states' laws. Handguns must be transferred to an Oregon FFL.

“shall not apply to the sale or delivery of any rifle or shotgun to a resident of a State other than a State in which the licensee's place of business is located if the transferee meets in person... and the sale, delivery, and receipt fully comply with the legal conditions of sale in both such States”

18 U.S.C. § 922(b)(3)

Do I need a background check to buy ammo in Oregon?

No background check required for ammunition.

“No ammo BGC statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Not Required

Self-DefenseCastle doctrine, stand your ground, duty to retreat

Does Oregon have a castle doctrine?

“Subsections (2) and (3) of this section do not apply to a person who is: (a) In the person’s dwelling and not the initial aggressor;”

ORS § 161.219

Is there a duty to retreat before using force in Oregon?

Oregon imposes a duty to retreat before using deadly force, which applies everywhere except when a person is in their own dwelling and not the initial aggressor.

“a person is not justified in using deadly physical force upon another person if the person knows that the person can avoid the necessity of using such force with complete safety: (a) By retreating;... Subsections (2) and (3) of this section do not apply to a person who is: (a) In the person’s dwelling and not the initial aggressor;”

ORS § 161.219

Does Oregon have a stand your ground law?

Oregon does not have a stand your ground law; a person generally has a duty to retreat before using deadly force in public places if they can do so with complete safety.

“a person is not justified in using deadly physical force upon another person if the person knows that the person can avoid the necessity of using such force with complete safety: (a) By retreating;”

ORS § 161.219

Active Court Cases

These legal challenges could change Oregon's gun laws in the near future

Arnold v. Brown

22CV41008

Permanent Injunction

Court: Harney County Circuit Court

Issue: Measure 114 (Permit to Purchase & Magazine Ban)

What This Means for You:

The permit requirement and magazine ban are currently BLOCKED and not enforced.

Court Docket Case Tracking

Oregon Firearms Federation v. Kotek

2:22-cv-01815

Appeal Pending

Court: 9th Circuit Court of Appeals

Issue: Measure 114 Constitutionality (Federal)

What This Means for You:

Federal court upheld the law, but the State court injunction (Arnold v. Brown) takes precedence for now.

Court Docket Case Tracking

💡 Note: Court rulings can change quickly. Always verify current status before relying on these cases.

Common Scenarios

Quick answers to the most frequently asked questions about Oregon gun laws.

Can I keep a gun in my car?

Concealed carry in a vehicle requires a CHL. Open carry (visible) is legal unless in a locality that bans loaded carry (like Portland).

ORS § 166.250(1)(b)

Can I defend my home?

ORS § 161.219

Can I stand my ground?

Oregon does not have a stand your ground law; a person generally has a duty to retreat before using deadly force in public places if they can do so with complete safety.

ORS § 161.219

Can I carry without a permit?

Shall Issue.

ORS § 166.291

Can I carry on college campus?

State law allows universities to ban carry. Most (like U of O, OSU) have banned it.

ORS § 166.377

Can I buy a gun online?

Legal, but must be shipped to an Oregon FFL for the background check.

ORS § 166.435

Can I own a suppressor?

Legal if compliant with federal NFA (tax stamp, registration).

ORS § 166.272

Can I own standard capacity magazines?

Measure 114 created a 10-round limit, but it is currently ENJOINED by state court (Arnold v. Brown). It is not currently enforced.

Ballot Measure 114 § 11

Detailed Law Topics

Comprehensive breakdown of Oregon's firearms regulations by category.

Carrying & TransportConcealed carry, open carry, vehicle carry, sensitive places

Does FOPA safe passage apply when traveling through Oregon?

Federal FOPA protects travelers passing through.

“entitled to transport a firearm... from any place where he may lawfully possess and carry such firearm to any other place where he may lawfully possess and carry such firearm”

18 U.S.C. § 926A

Is open carry legal in Oregon?

Generally legal statewide, BUT localities (Portland, Beaverton, etc.) can and do ban loaded open carry without a CHL.

“A city or county may adopt an ordinance to regulate, restrict or prohibit the possession of a loaded firearm... in a public place”

ORS § 166.173

Legal

Can I fly with a firearm from Oregon?

Standard TSA rules apply. Portland (PDX) ordinance prohibits carry in the terminal.

“Carriage of weapons, explosives, and incendiaries by individuals”

49 CFR § 1540.111

Can I carry without a permit in Oregon?

Shall Issue.

“The sheriff... shall issue”

ORS § 166.291

How do I get a concealed carry permit in Oregon?

Shall Issue. Processed by County Sheriff.

“The sheriff of a county... shall issue a concealed handgun license if the applicant...”

ORS § 166.291

Can I carry on college campus in Oregon?

State law allows universities to ban carry. Most (like U of O, OSU) have banned it.

“The governing board of a public university... may adopt a policy providing that... the possession of a firearm... is prohibited”

ORS § 166.377

What are the school zone gun laws in Oregon?

“Does not apply to... A person who is licensed under ORS 166.291 and 166.292 to carry a concealed handgun”

ORS § 166.370(3)(g)

Can I keep a loaded gun in my car in Oregon?

Concealed carry in a vehicle requires a CHL. Open carry (visible) is legal unless in a locality that bans loaded carry (like Portland).

“Unlawful possession... if the person knowingly... Carries any firearm concealed upon the person or within any vehicle which is under the person's control or direction”

ORS § 166.250(1)(b)

Can I carry in national parks in Oregon?

Allowed if legal in the state (CHL required for concealed). Buildings are off-limits.

“shall not promulgate or enforce any regulation that prohibits an individual from possessing a firearm... if... the individual is not otherwise prohibited by law from possessing the firearm”

54 U.S.C. § 104906

Where can't I carry a gun in Oregon?

Courthouses, correctional facilities, and the State Capitol (SB 554). Localities may designate other public buildings.

“Any person who intentionally possesses a loaded or unloaded firearm... in a court facility... [or] public building”

ORS § 166.370

How do I transport firearms in Oregon?

Without a CHL, handguns must be not concealed (open) or not accessible (trunk). Rifles/shotguns can be transported but should be unloaded to avoid hunting violations.

“Exceptions... To any person who is licensed... To any person transporting a rifle or shotgun... if the firearm is unloaded and concealed in a locked trunk”

ORS § 166.250

Weapons & AccessoriesWhat you can own: rifles, magazines, suppressors, SBRs

Are short-barreled rifles legal in Oregon?

Legal if compliant with federal NFA.

“unless the person is registered... under federal law”

ORS § 166.272

Are ghost guns legal in Oregon?

HB 2005 (2023) banned the possession of unserialized frames and receivers effective Sept 1, 2024.

“A person commits the crime of unlawful possession of a firearm if the person knowingly... possesses a firearm that is not imprinted with a serial number”

ORS § 166.250 (as amended by HB 2005)

Are suppressors legal in Oregon?

Legal if compliant with federal NFA (tax stamp, registration).

“unless the person is registered... under federal law”

ORS § 166.272

Does Oregon require firearm serialization?

All firearms, including home-built ones, must have a serial number imprinted by an FFL.

“firearm that is not imprinted with a serial number by a federally licensed firearm manufacturer”

ORS § 166.250 (HB 2005)

Required

Does Oregon require microstamping?

No microstamping requirement.

“No microstamping statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Not Required

Are muzzle devices legal in Oregon?

Legal if registered under NFA.

“A person commits the crime of unlawful possession of a machine gun, short-barreled rifle, short-barreled shotgun or silencer unless the person is registered... under federal law”

ORS § 166.272

What are the assault weapon laws in Oregon?

No state ban on 'assault weapons'.

“No assault weapon ban”

ORS Chapter 166

Does Oregon have a magazine capacity limit?

Measure 114 created a 10-round limit, but it is currently ENJOINED by state court (Arnold v. Brown). It is not currently enforced.

“A person commits the crime of unlawful manufacture, importation, possession... of large-capacity magazines [over 10 rounds]”

Ballot Measure 114 § 11

Enjoined

What are the compliance methods for firearms in Oregon?

null

N/A

Ownership & PossessionRegistration, storage requirements, private transfers

Does Oregon require firearm registration?

Oregon law explicitly prohibits a state registry (though OSP keeps transaction records for 5 years).

“The state may not... Establish or maintain any form of firearm registration”

ORS § 166.412(7)(a)

Not Required

Does Oregon require safe storage of firearms?

Mandatory storage law (SB 554). Guns must be secured when not under control of the owner.

“A person... shall secure the firearm with a trigger or cable lock, in a locked container or in a gun room”

ORS § 166.395

Does Oregon have red flag laws?

Yes, Oregon has Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO).

“A law enforcement officer or a family or household member of a respondent may file a petition requesting that the court issue an extreme risk protection order”

ORS § 166.525

What do I need to know about bringing guns when moving to Oregon?

No registration required for new residents bringing personally owned firearms.

“No new resident statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Do I have to report a stolen gun in Oregon?

Must report theft/loss within 72 hours.

“A person who owns... a firearm shall report the loss or theft of the firearm to a law enforcement agency... within 72 hours”

ORS § 166.397

Required

How do private firearm transfers work in Oregon?

Private transfers must be facilitated by an FFL with a background check.

“A transferor may not transfer a firearm to a transferee unless the transferor... appears with the transferee in person before a gun dealer”

ORS § 166.435

Can I lend a firearm to a family member in Oregon?

Exemptions exist for close family members (spouse, parent, child, sibling).

“The requirements of this section do not apply to... A transfer to a spouse or domestic partner... or a transfer to a parent, stepparent, child, stepchild, sibling”

ORS § 166.435(4)(c)

Does Oregon require firearm insurance?

No state mandate for liability insurance.

“No insurance statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

What are the child access prevention laws in Oregon?

Strict liability if a minor obtains an unsecured firearm.

“If a minor obtains an unsecured firearm... the owner of the firearm may be found liable”

ORS § 166.395

Eligibility & ProhibitionsWho can and cannot own firearms

Can marijuana users own firearms in Oregon?

Federal law prohibits possession by unlawful users of controlled substances. Marijuana remains federally illegal.

“who is an unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance (as defined in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802))”

18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3)

Can non-citizens own firearms in Oregon?

Illegal aliens are prohibited. Legal permanent residents may purchase.

“who, being an alien... is illegally or unlawfully in the United States”

18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(5)

Can I buy from a private seller in Oregon?

Universal Background Checks are required. All private transfers must be processed through a licensed dealer (FFL).

“A transferor may not transfer a firearm to a transferee unless the transferor... appears with the transferee in person before a gun dealer... and the gun dealer requests a criminal history record check”

ORS § 166.435

What are straw purchase laws in Oregon?

Illegal under both federal and state law to purchase a firearm for a prohibited person.

“A person commits the crime of providing a firearm to a person prohibited... if the person sells, delivers or otherwise transfers a firearm to a person who the transferor knows or has good reason to believe is prohibited”

ORS § 166.416

Can someone with a domestic violence conviction own a gun in Oregon?

Yes, Oregon law explicitly prohibits possession for qualifying misdemeanor domestic violence convictions.

“It is unlawful for a person to knowingly possess a firearm or ammunition if... The person has been convicted of a qualifying misdemeanor and, at the time of the offense, the person was a family or household member of the victim”

ORS § 166.255(1)(b)

How do background checks work in Oregon?

Oregon is a Point of Contact (POC) state. Dealers contact the Oregon State Police (OSP) Firearms Instant Check System (FICS).

“The dealer shall request by telephone that the Department of State Police conduct a criminal history record check on the purchaser”

ORS § 166.412

Who is prohibited from owning firearms in Oregon?

Oregon prohibits possession by those committed to the Oregon Health Authority for mental illness, even if not federally prohibited, and minors under 18 (with exceptions).

“A person commits the crime of unlawful possession of a firearm if the person knowingly... Possesses a firearm and... Was committed to the Oregon Health Authority under ORS 426.130”

ORS § 166.250(1)(c)

Who is prohibited from owning firearms under federal law?

Felons, fugitives, unlawful users of controlled substances, those adjudicated as mental defectives, illegal aliens, dishonorable discharges, and those subject to certain restraining orders.

“It shall be unlawful for any person... who has been convicted in any court of, a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year... to ship or transport in interstate or foreign commerce, or possess in or affecting commerce, any firearm or ammunition”

18 U.S.C. § 922(g)

Buying & Acquiring FirearmsHow to purchase, waiting periods, background checks

What is the minimum age to buy a gun in Oregon?

18 for rifles/shotguns, 21 for handguns.

“A person commits the crime of unlawfully purchasing a firearm if the person... is under 18 years of age... or is under 21 years of age and attempts to purchase a handgun”

ORS § 166.470

Is there a waiting period to buy a gun in Oregon?

No statutory fixed waiting period, but transfer cannot proceed until OSP approves or the 'Charleston Loophole' window passes (though many dealers wait for approval).

“If the department fails to provide a unique approval number to a gun dealer... the gun dealer may deliver the firearm”

ORS § 166.412(3)(c)

Does Oregon have a handgun roster?

No handgun roster exists in Oregon.

“No roster statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Oregon?

Technically law under Measure 114, but currently ENJOINED by state court order (Arnold v. Brown). No permit is currently required to purchase.

“A person may not purchase or acquire a firearm unless the person has a permit to purchase”

Ballot Measure 114 § 4

Not RequiredEnjoined

Can I buy a gun online in Oregon?

Legal, but must be shipped to an Oregon FFL for the background check.

“A transferor may not transfer a firearm to a transferee unless... [processed by] a gun dealer”

ORS § 166.435

Legal

Are there gun purchase limits in Oregon?

No rationing of firearm purchases.

“No limit statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Are there ammunition restrictions in Oregon?

No state restrictions on ammunition quantity or type (other than armor-piercing prohibitions).

“No ammo statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Can I buy a gun out of state in Oregon?

Residents may buy long guns in other states if compliant with both states' laws. Handguns must be transferred to an Oregon FFL.

“shall not apply to the sale or delivery of any rifle or shotgun to a resident of a State other than a State in which the licensee's place of business is located if the transferee meets in person... and the sale, delivery, and receipt fully comply with the legal conditions of sale in both such States”

18 U.S.C. § 922(b)(3)

Do I need a background check to buy ammo in Oregon?

No background check required for ammunition.

“No ammo BGC statute found”

ORS Chapter 166

Not Required

Self-DefenseCastle doctrine, stand your ground, duty to retreat

Does Oregon have a castle doctrine?

“Subsections (2) and (3) of this section do not apply to a person who is: (a) In the person’s dwelling and not the initial aggressor;”

ORS § 161.219

Is there a duty to retreat before using force in Oregon?

Oregon imposes a duty to retreat before using deadly force, which applies everywhere except when a person is in their own dwelling and not the initial aggressor.

“a person is not justified in using deadly physical force upon another person if the person knows that the person can avoid the necessity of using such force with complete safety: (a) By retreating;... Subsections (2) and (3) of this section do not apply to a person who is: (a) In the person’s dwelling and not the initial aggressor;”

ORS § 161.219

Does Oregon have a stand your ground law?

Oregon does not have a stand your ground law; a person generally has a duty to retreat before using deadly force in public places if they can do so with complete safety.

“a person is not justified in using deadly physical force upon another person if the person knows that the person can avoid the necessity of using such force with complete safety: (a) By retreating;”

ORS § 161.219

Oregon Gun Laws in Plain English

Critical: Oregon Gun Law Gotchas

Common Scenarios

Detailed Law Topics

Does FOPA safe passage apply when traveling through Oregon?

Is open carry legal in Oregon?

Can I fly with a firearm from Oregon?

Can I carry without a permit in Oregon?

How do I get a concealed carry permit in Oregon?

Can I carry on college campus in Oregon?

What are the school zone gun laws in Oregon?

Can I keep a loaded gun in my car in Oregon?

Can I carry in national parks in Oregon?

Where can't I carry a gun in Oregon?

How do I transport firearms in Oregon?

Are short-barreled rifles legal in Oregon?

Are ghost guns legal in Oregon?

Are suppressors legal in Oregon?

Does Oregon require firearm serialization?

Does Oregon require microstamping?

Are muzzle devices legal in Oregon?

What are the assault weapon laws in Oregon?

Does Oregon have a magazine capacity limit?

What are the compliance methods for firearms in Oregon?

Does Oregon require firearm registration?

Does Oregon require safe storage of firearms?

Does Oregon have red flag laws?

What do I need to know about bringing guns when moving to Oregon?

Do I have to report a stolen gun in Oregon?

How do private firearm transfers work in Oregon?

Can I lend a firearm to a family member in Oregon?

Does Oregon require firearm insurance?

What are the child access prevention laws in Oregon?

Can marijuana users own firearms in Oregon?

Can non-citizens own firearms in Oregon?

Can I buy from a private seller in Oregon?

What are straw purchase laws in Oregon?

Can someone with a domestic violence conviction own a gun in Oregon?

How do background checks work in Oregon?

Who is prohibited from owning firearms in Oregon?

Who is prohibited from owning firearms under federal law?

What is the minimum age to buy a gun in Oregon?

Is there a waiting period to buy a gun in Oregon?

Does Oregon have a handgun roster?

Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Oregon?

Can I buy a gun online in Oregon?

Are there gun purchase limits in Oregon?

Are there ammunition restrictions in Oregon?

Can I buy a gun out of state in Oregon?

Do I need a background check to buy ammo in Oregon?

Does Oregon have a castle doctrine?

Is there a duty to retreat before using force in Oregon?

Does Oregon have a stand your ground law?

Active Court Cases

Arnold v. Brown

Oregon Firearms Federation v. Kotek

Tracked Legislation

Oregon Gun Laws in Plain English

Critical: Oregon Gun Law Gotchas

Common Scenarios

Find Gun Dealers in Oregon

Top Counties

Detailed Law Topics

Does FOPA safe passage apply when traveling through Oregon?

Is open carry legal in Oregon?

Can I fly with a firearm from Oregon?

Can I carry without a permit in Oregon?

How do I get a concealed carry permit in Oregon?

Can I carry on college campus in Oregon?

What are the school zone gun laws in Oregon?

Can I keep a loaded gun in my car in Oregon?

Can I carry in national parks in Oregon?

Where can't I carry a gun in Oregon?

How do I transport firearms in Oregon?

Are short-barreled rifles legal in Oregon?

Are ghost guns legal in Oregon?

Are suppressors legal in Oregon?

Does Oregon require firearm serialization?

Does Oregon require microstamping?

Are muzzle devices legal in Oregon?