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Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS)

Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) are the codified laws of Oregon, enacted by the Oregon Legislative Assembly or Citizen Initiative. The Oregon State Legislature maintains a website of Oregon Revised Statutes. Most laws pertaining to water rights are included in Volume 15.

For convenience, links to the most relevant Oregon Revised Statutes Chapters are included below.

Chapter 390
State and Local Parks; Recreation Programs; Scenic Waterways; Recreation Trails
Chapter 536Water Resources Administration
Chapter 537Appropriation of Water Generally
Chapter 538Withdrawal of Certain Waters From Appropriation; Special Municipal and County Water Rights
Chapter 539Determination of Water Rights Initiated Before February 24, 1909; Determination of Water Rights of Federally Recognized Indian Tribes
Chapter 540Distribution and Storage of Water; Watermasters; Water Right Changes, Transfers and Forfeitures
Chapter 541Water Distributors; Water Releases; Conservation and Storage; Water Development Projects; Watershed Management and Enhancement
Chapter 542Water Resource Surveys and Projects; Compacts
Chapter 543Hydroelectric Projects
Chapter 543AReauthorizing and Decommissioning Hydroelectric Projects
Chapter 545Irrigation Districts
Chapter 547Drainage Districts
Chapter 548Provisions Applicable Both to Drainage Districts and to Irrigation Districts
Chapter 549Drainage and Flood Control Generally
Chapter 550Urban Flood Safety and Water Quality District
Chapter 551Diking Districts
Chapter 552Water Improvement Districts
Chapter 553Water Control Districts
Chapter 554Corporations for Irrigation, Drainage, Water Supply or Flood Control
Chapter 555Reclamation Projects; Sand Control





Visit the Oregon Legislature's website for more information.