Oregon Governor Signs Bill to Boost Farm Stands Across State

Legislation sponsored by Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson aims to support family farms and agritourism

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:52am by Ben Kaplan

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A high-end studio still life photograph featuring a collection of polished, geometric farm-related objects arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing the diverse offerings and experiences enabled by new legislation supporting Oregon's family farms.A showcase of the premium products and experiences that Oregon's family farms can now offer through new farm stand and agritourism opportunities.Portland Today

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has signed House Bill 4153 into law, which creates new options for farmers to open small farm stores on their land and host agritourism activities like farm tours and seasonal events. The bill was sponsored by state Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson and developed through a collaborative process with various stakeholders, including farmers, advocacy groups, and government agencies.

Why it matters

This new law is seen as a major win for Oregon's family farms, which are a crucial part of the state's rural economies. The legislation provides more flexibility and clarity around farm stand operations and agritourism, helping these businesses adapt and thrive in the face of changing consumer preferences and economic conditions.

The details

The law establishes an optional permit for farms that want to open a small on-site store to sell their own products as well as goods from other local producers. It also provides clearer guidelines for agritourism activities like farm tours, educational exhibits, and seasonal events, ensuring these supplement rather than replace farming operations. The bill was developed through a collaborative process involving the governor's office, state agencies, industry groups, and farmers across Oregon.

  • The new law takes effect on January 1, 2027, giving farmers and counties time to learn about the updated framework.
  • Governor Kotek signed the legislation on April 9, 2026 during a ceremony at Topaz Farms on Sauvie Island.

The players

Governor Tina Kotek

The governor of Oregon who joined farmers and legislators to commemorate the signing of House Bill 4153.

Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson

The chief sponsor of House Bill 4153, a Republican state representative from Prineville, Oregon.

Kat Topaz

The co-owner of Topaz Farms, where the bill signing ceremony took place.

Oregon Department of Agriculture

A state agency that was involved in the collaborative process to develop the new farm stand legislation.

Oregon Farm Bureau

An advocacy organization that participated in the stakeholder process for House Bill 4153.

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What they’re saying

“'Oregon's family farms are the backbone of our rural economies, and this bill will help them adapt and succeed. This new law gives certainty to farmers who diversify their revenues through agritourism and on-site sales while still preserving and honoring the farmlands that make Oregon special.'”

— Governor Tina Kotek

“'Agriculture collectively provides the largest economic impact to Oregon. It is the foundation of our state. This bill is a true example of what happens when ag champions come together for the industry and Oregonians. Signing HB 4153 into law secures a future for family farms in Oregon.'”

— Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson, Chief Sponsor of HB 4153

“'At a time when most of us feel helpless, everyone together made this bill happen. It would have never passed without the overwhelming support from the public.'”

— Kat Topaz, Co-owner, Topaz Farms

What’s next

Farmers and counties across Oregon will now have time to learn about the new framework established by House Bill 4153 before it takes effect on January 1, 2027.

The takeaway

This legislation represents a collaborative effort to support Oregon's family farms and rural economies by providing more flexibility and clarity around farm stands and agritourism activities. The new law is seen as a major win for the state's agricultural sector, helping farms diversify their revenue streams and connect more directly with consumers.