Understanding Mobile Home Lot Fees and Costs in Oregon

Living in a mobile home park in Oregon offers flexibility and community living, but renters often face unique costs and rules, including what’s known as a mobile home lot fee. Understanding what this fee covers and how it's regulated can help renters avoid surprises and advocate for their rights under Oregon law.

What is a Mobile Home Lot Fee?

A mobile home lot fee is the monthly rent paid by the tenant to lease a space (lot) in a mobile home or manufactured dwelling park. This fee covers the right to keep your manufactured home or mobile home on a piece of land owned by the park, while you own or rent the home itself.

What Does the Lot Fee Typically Include?

The lot fee usually pays for:

• The right to occupy the lot (parking space) in the park
• Utilities (water, sewer, garbage), if specified in your rental agreement
• Park maintenance of common areas
• Access to facilities like laundry rooms or recreation centers, depending on the park

Always check your rental agreement for a detailed breakdown, as included services can vary from park to park.

How Much Are Typical Lot Fees in Oregon?

Lot fees in Oregon can vary widely based on location, amenities, and market conditions. On average, as of 2024, mobile home lot rent in Oregon ranges from $500 to $900 per month, with some urban areas charging higher rates. Utilities and additional services may be included or billed separately.

Who Regulates Lot Fees and Rent Increases?

The Oregon Department of Justice and the state legislature set out rules for manufactured home parks through laws like the Oregon Manufactured Dwelling Park Residency Law (ORS 90.505 - 90.875)¹. Rent increases and fees are covered under these statutes, and park owners must provide written notice for any rent increase at least 90 days prior to the effective date, per ORS 90.600².

Extra Fees and Charges to Watch For

Besides the basic lot fee, some parks may charge for:

• Metered electricity, water, or other utilities not included in the main fee
• Late payment fees
• Guest or parking fees for extra vehicles

Oregon law limits excessive or unreasonable fees and requires that all charges be clearly stated in your rental agreement.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

If you need to respond to a rent increase, dispute a fee, or lodge a complaint, several official forms are available:

• Manufactured Dwelling Park Complaint Form: Used to report potential violations by park management, such as improper fee increases or poor maintenance.
  Access the Manufactured Dwelling Park Complaint Form on the Oregon Department of Justice website. For example, if you receive a sudden unexplained fee hike, you can complete and submit this form to the DOJ.
• Tenant Notice Challenging a Fee or Rent Increase (No official statewide form, but tenants may provide written notice referencing ORS 90.600). Address it to your landlord, stating the disagreement and citing the relevant legislation.

The Oregon Department of Justice’s Office of Manufactured Dwelling Park Community Relations offers guidance for filling out forms or navigating disputes.

Where to Go for Official Dispute Resolution

Residential tenancy matters for mobile or manufactured homes in Oregon fall under the jurisdiction of the Oregon Circuit Courts. For park dispute resolution or mediation, the Oregon Department of Justice: Manufactured Dwelling Park Dispute Resolution Program may assist.

FAQ: Oregon Mobile Home Lot Fees

1. Can my landlord increase my mobile home lot rent at any time?
   No. Park owners must give at least 90 days' written notice before any rent increase, and increases are limited to once per year unless otherwise stated in your agreement.
2. What should I do if I think my lot fee or a new charge is unfair?
   First, review your rental agreement and Oregon law. Communicate your concerns in writing to your landlord. If unresolved, you can submit a complaint to the Oregon DOJ.
3. Does my lot fee include utilities?
   Sometimes. Your rental agreement should specify if utilities are included or separate. If not stated, ask your landlord for clarification in writing.
4. Can I be evicted for not paying a disputed fee?
   Landlords can initiate eviction for nonpayment, but you have rights to dispute charges. Respond promptly with a written notice and seek help if needed.
5. Where can I find laws about mobile home lot fees in Oregon?
   All regulations are outlined in the Oregon Manufactured Dwelling Park Residency Law.

Key Takeaways for Oregon Mobile Home Park Renters

• Lot fees cover rental of the land your home sits on, not the home itself.
• Oregon law requires written notice for fee changes or increases and protects against unreasonable charges.
• Help is available if you believe your rights are being violated—keep records and use approved complaint channels.

Understanding your lot fee and rights helps prevent disputes and keeps your housing stable.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon DOJ: Manufactured Dwelling Park Resource Hub – For forms, complaints, and guidance.
• Oregon Manufactured Dwelling Park Residency Law: Full Text
• Oregon Circuit Courts – For legal action or formal tenant-landlord disputes.
• Oregon Housing and Community Services: Manufactured and Marina Program

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1. Oregon Manufactured Dwelling Park Residency Law (ORS 90.505 - 90.875)
2. Requirement for rent increase notice (ORS 90.600)

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