Illegal Rental Advertisement Language in Oregon: What Renters Should Know

Finding a rental in Oregon can feel overwhelming, but knowing your rights around fair housing laws is important. Oregon law—alongside federal regulations—outlines what language landlords must avoid in rental advertisements. This guide will help you understand which terms or statements are illegal, why they matter, and how to take action if you notice discrimination in rental ads.

Understanding Fair Housing Law in Oregon

Oregon’s fair housing laws protect renters from discrimination in housing-related activities, including rental advertising. Landlords, property managers, and anyone posting rental ads must follow both the federal Fair Housing Act and Oregon’s Oregon Fair Housing Act (ORS 659A.145-155). The laws prohibit discrimination based on:

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex, gender, or sexual orientation
• Familial status (such as presence of children)
• Disability (physical or mental)
• Source of income (including housing vouchers, as protected in Oregon)
• Marital status

What Language Is Illegal in Oregon Rental Ads?

Advertising cannot indicate a preference, limitation, or discrimination based on the protected characteristics listed above. The law applies to any medium: print, online listings, social media, and more.

Examples of Prohibited Phrases

• "No children" or "adults only"
• "Christian home" or "must be Christian"
• "No Section 8" or "no vouchers"
• "Perfect for singles" or "ideal for a young couple" (implies familial status preference)
• "Male preferred," "female-only," or similar unless legally justified (such as shared housing situations)
• "No wheelchairs," "must be able-bodied"

Even if a landlord does not intend harm, these statements may violate Oregon’s fair housing laws and the federal Fair Housing Act. Ads should focus on the property, not the applicant's personal traits.

Examples of Lawful Advertising Language

• "2-bedroom apartment with a fenced yard"
• "No smoking property"
• "Pet deposit required"
• "Near public transit"

These examples describe the features of the rental without mentioning or implying who is allowed to apply based on protected status.

What To Do If You Spot Illegal Advertising

If you believe a rental ad violates Oregon’s fair housing laws, you can file a complaint. Complaints are handled by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) Civil Rights Division. The process is confidential and free for renters.

Relevant Official Forms

• Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  • When to use it: If you encounter or suspect housing discrimination—such as discriminatory ad language—you can submit this form to BOLI.
  • How to use: Complete and submit online or by mail, providing details and copies (screenshots) of the suspect ad.
  • View and file the Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (BOLI)

Once filed, BOLI will review your complaint, investigate, and attempt to resolve the issue.

Key Legislation and Enforcement Agency

• Oregon Fair Housing Act (ORS 659A.145-155)
• Federal Fair Housing Act, Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968
• Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) Civil Rights Division – oversees housing discrimination complaints and enforcement

FAQ: Rental Ad Discrimination in Oregon

1. Can a landlord say "no children" or "adults only" in an Oregon rental ad?
   No, statements restricting families with children are illegal. Oregon and federal laws protect against discrimination based on familial status.
2. Is it legal for a landlord to say "no Section 8" or "no vouchers"?
   No. Oregon law prohibits landlords from refusing applicants based on source of income, including housing vouchers such as Section 8.
3. What should I do if I see a discriminatory rental ad?
   Document the ad (take a screenshot), then file a complaint with the BOLI Civil Rights Division using their official housing discrimination complaint form.
4. Can religious phrases like "Christian home" appear in rental ads?
   No. Indicating a religious preference or restriction in ads is not allowed under fair housing laws, unless exempt by special circumstance (such as certain religious organizations).
5. Does Oregon allow landlords to prefer single tenants?
   Typically, no. Phrases like "perfect for singles" can imply exclusion of families and may violate fair housing protections. Focus should remain on property features, not who may live there.

Conclusion: What Oregon Renters Should Remember

• Rental ads must not express any preference or restriction based on legally protected characteristics.
• If you see discriminatory language, Oregon provides tools and agencies to help you act.
• Staying informed about your rights ensures fair access to housing opportunities.

By understanding these rules, renters can better protect themselves and support equal housing opportunities in Oregon.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) Civil Rights Division – File complaints, get information, and understand your rights.
• Oregon Fair Housing Act—Read the full statute
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Fair Housing
• Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)

---

1. Oregon Fair Housing Act (ORS 659A.145-155)
2. Federal Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968)
3. Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) Civil Rights Division
4. BOLI: Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations