New Oregon Law Clears Path for Year-Round “Farm Stores” to Boost Agricultural Income
By Griffin Beach on Thursday, April 9th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PORTLAND – Gov. Tina Kotek has signed House Bill 4153 into law, establishing a new framework for “farm stores” to help Oregon agricultural operations diversify their income. It aims to reduce regulatory hurdles for farmers seeking year-round revenue streams.
The new law permits the establishment of farm stores on land zoned for exclusive farm use or mixed farm and forest use. Unlike traditional farm stands, these stores may sell a broader range of goods, including processed farm products and items from the “local agricultural area”, an area defined as any part of Oregon or adjacent counties. Under these rules, a store in Umatilla County could sell products sourced from Walla Walla or Benton counties in Washington.
Other key provisions include:
- Retail Space: Store owners may sell non-agricultural retail items, provided the display area does not exceed 25% of the total floor space of the permanent structures.
- Food Service: On-site kitchens licensed by the Oregon Health Authority are permitted to prepare food and beverages for immediate consumption. However, the law prohibits these facilities from functioning as standard cafes or drive-through establishments.
- Agri-tourism: Activities designed to promote the farm, such as tractor rides, farm tours, hayrides, and educational classes.
The legislation distinguishes farm stores from existing “farm stands,” which are more restricted in what can be offered.
“The peppers and the melons don’t grow 12 months out of the year,” Umatilla County Commissioner Dan Dorran said in a February interview with Elkhorn Media. “This (farm store) is supposed to try and supplement that income.”
Kotek echoed those sentiments at Wednesday’s signing ceremony.
“Our farmers face a lot of challenges, increased costs, changing markets,” Kotek said. “The need to diversify what they do so they can have the farm for generations to come, this bill addresses some of those challenges.”
