New Eugene Rental Housing Laws Now in Effect

On July 24, 2023, the Eugene City Council passed Ordinance Number 20694, amending various sections of the Eugene Code related to rental housing, effective August 25, 2023.

Click here to read and download a copy of the complete ordinance. 

Key Highlights: 

• Security Deposits: Landlords can't ask for more than two months' rent as a security deposit. However, additional deposits may be required for things like pets or special circumstances, but renters must be given at least three months to pay these extra deposits.
  
  
• Applications: Landlords must clearly state when they start accepting rental applications. They also need to record the date and time they receive each application, and process them in the order they're received. If someone needs more time to apply, they can request it, and the application date will be adjusted accordingly.
  
  
• Relocation Assistance: If a landlord ends a month-to-month tenancy without cause, they must give at least 90 days' notice and provide relocation assistance equal to two months' rent. Similar rules apply in case of a qualifying landlord reason. For fixed-term tenancies, renters can request to renew their agreement within 30 days, or the landlord may offer a renewal. If the rent increases by the maximum allowed by law (10% for 2023), renters can request relocation assistance.
  
  
• Rent Increases: If rent increases by the maximum allowed by law, renters can ask for relocation assistance within 30 days of receiving the notice. The landlord must pay it at least 45 days before the increase takes effect.
  
  
• Reporting Requirements: Landlords must report certain actions, like termination notices and legal actions, to the city within 30 days.
  
  
• Exemptions: These rules don't apply to week-to-week tenancies, some owner-occupied situations, certain types of housing, or if rent increases are below the maximum allowed by law.
  
  
• Enforcement and Penalties: Landlords who violate these rules may have to pay relocation assistance, damages, and attorney fees to renters. There are also penalties for not following security deposit and screening rules.

Please note that this summary is for informational purposes and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific guidance on rental housing matters. For more details and updates, visit the City of Eugene's website.