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Bill

SB 1095

Relating to vacant home fees; prescribing an effective date.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dick Anderson and 3 co-sponsors

Oregon bill imposing fees on long-term vacant residential properties to discourage housing vacancy and fund affordable housing initiatives.

In committee upon adjournment.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1095

Legislative bill overview

SB 1095 establishes a fee structure for residential properties that remain vacant for extended periods in Oregon. The bill aims to discourage housing vacancy and generate revenue, likely to address affordable housing shortages and neighborhood blight associated with long-term vacant properties.

Why is this important

Vacant homes can decrease neighborhood property values, increase maintenance costs for municipalities, and reduce the available housing supply in markets with affordability crises. Revenue from these fees could fund housing programs or local services, while the fee structure itself may incentivize property owners to either occupy, rent, or sell vacant units.

Potential points of contention

  • Property owner burden: Out-of-state investors, heirs managing inherited properties, and owners facing renovation delays may face unexpected financial penalties unrelated to voluntary neglect
  • Definition and enforcement complexity: Determining what constitutes "vacant" (seasonal homes, properties under renovation, temporarily listed for sale) and enforcing compliance across jurisdictions requires clear, administratively feasible standards
  • Unintended market effects: Fees could increase housing costs if passed to tenants, potentially worsen affordability rather than improve it, or incentivize rapid sales that displace current residents

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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