Security Deposit Laws in Oregon
Oregon does not cap security deposits, requires the deposit balance and a written accounting within 31 days after the tenancy ends, and requires at least 24 hours' actual notice before a landlord enters.
Last checked . General information, not legal advice.
Oregon at a glance
- Security deposit limit
- No statewide limit
- State law sets no maximum deposit
- Deposit return deadline
- 31 days
- 31 days after tenancy ends and tenant delivers possession
- Interest on deposits
- Not required by state law
- Some cities have their own interest rules
- Notice before landlord entry
- 24 hours
- At least 24 hours' actual notice
The rules in Oregon
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Oregon?
Oregon law sets no statewide limit on security deposits, so the amount is set by the lease. Check for local rules where you rent.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Oregon?
Oregon rule: 31 days after tenancy ends and tenant delivers possession.
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in Oregon?
No. Oregon state law does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits. Some cities have their own rules.
How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in Oregon?
Oregon rule: At least 24 hours' actual notice.
Where do the Oregon rules for residential leases come from?
They come from ORS 90.300 and ORS 90.322. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.
How Oregon compares
Oregon is one of 21 jurisdictions with no statewide cap. Its 31-day return deadline is longer than the most common deadline of 30 days; 38 jurisdictions require a faster return.
What this means in practice
Landlords: state the deposit amount, where it is held and how it will be returned in the lease, and send the refund with any deductions in writing within the deadline.
Tenants: record the unit's condition with photos and a move-in checklist, keep your receipts, and give the landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out.
Both sides: normal wear and tear is generally not deductible. Disputes over deductions usually go to small claims court.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.