Illegal Self-Help Evictions in Oregon: Renter Rights Explained

If you're renting in Oregon and facing eviction threats or actions that seem unfair, it's vital to know your rights. Oregon law strictly prohibits landlords from carrying out self-help evictions, meaning they cannot try to remove you or your belongings from the unit without going through the legal process. Understanding what counts as a self-help eviction and how Oregon protects renters can empower you to defend your rights effectively.

What is a Self-Help Eviction?

A self-help eviction occurs when a landlord tries to force a tenant out of a rental property without a court order. This includes any attempt to bypass the official eviction process, which is required by Oregon law.

Examples of Illegal Self-Help Evictions

• Changing the locks to keep you out
• Shutting off essential utilities (water, electricity, heat)
• Removing your belongings from the property
• Threatening, harassing, or physically removing tenants without a court order

These actions are illegal in Oregon and carry serious penalties for landlords. State law is clear: only a sheriff, after a court judgment, can physically remove a tenant.

Oregon Law: The Proper Eviction Process

Your landlord must follow the steps outlined in the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90). The eviction process (known as an "FED"—Forcible Entry and Detainer) includes:

• Serving the proper written notice for the type of violation (e.g., nonpayment of rent)
• Allowing the required notice period
• Filing an eviction (FED) case with the county court if you do not move out
• Obtaining a court judgment and a Writ of Execution (court order for eviction)
• The sheriff carries out the removal—never the landlord themselves

Any attempt by your landlord to skip these steps is considered a self-help eviction and is strictly prohibited.

Your Rights if Faced With a Self-Help Eviction

If your landlord tries to lock you out, shut off your utilities, or take your belongings, you have the right to:

• Regain entry to your rental unit (you may call the police for assistance)
• File a complaint with your county court or legal aid
• Request damages equal to twice your actual losses or two months’ rent (whichever is more), according to ORS 90.375

If you wish to take legal action, Oregon courts provide forms and resources. The key tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes in Oregon is your local county Circuit Court. These courts handle eviction (FED) proceedings and tenant claims.

Key Oregon Forms for Renters

• Eviction Complaint and Answer Form
  When used: If you receive an eviction notice or summons, you can respond using the "FED Complaint and Answer" form found on your county Circuit Court website.
  View Oregon Landlord-Tenant Forms (Official)
• Motion for Order to Show Cause Regarding Wrongful Removal or Exclusion
  When used: If your landlord locks you out or removes your possessions, this motion asks the court to order your landlord to let you back in and compensate you.
  Download Sample Motion for Order to Show Cause (PDF)

Contact the clerk of your local Circuit Court for the correct form and help filing. Additional forms and information are available from the Oregon Judicial Department: Landlord-Tenant Resources.

How to Take Action if Facing a Self-Help Eviction

Here is a quick summary of what renters can do if their landlord attempts an illegal eviction:

• Document what happened (photos, texts, notices)
• Call non-emergency police if you’ve been locked out or evicted without court order
• Contact your local county Circuit Court or legal aid for next steps
• File the Motion for Order to Show Cause to regain access and claim damages

Filing promptly can help you protect your housing and financial rights.

FAQ: Oregon Self-Help Evictions

1. What should I do if my landlord changes the locks without an eviction order? Immediately collect evidence, contact the police or sheriff’s office, and seek help from your local Circuit Court by filing a motion for re-entry. You have the right to regain access and may be entitled to damages.
2. Is it legal for my landlord to turn off utilities to force me out? No. Utility shutoffs intended to force a renter out are illegal in Oregon. You may file for damages and request utility restoration through the court.
3. Which court handles Oregon eviction cases? All eviction and tenant rights matters are handled by the county Circuit Courts in Oregon. See the Oregon Circuit Court Locations page for details.
4. Can my landlord move my belongings out without my permission? No. Only after a court issues a Writ of Execution can your belongings be removed, and this is done by the sheriff, not your landlord.
5. What formal notice must my landlord give before legal eviction? Oregon law requires a written notice with a set time period (such as a 72-hour notice for nonpayment of rent) before filing in court. Details can be found in ORS Chapter 90.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: ORS Chapter 90
• Oregon Judicial Department: Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Oregon Law Help (Free Legal Aid)
• Oregon Circuit Courts – Find Your Local Court
• Oregon Housing and Community Services (for emergency rental support)

---

1. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
2. Oregon Judicial Department Landlord Tenant Resources
3. Oregon Landlord-Tenant Court Forms
4. Oregon Housing and Community Services

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