Not legal advice. OSTA is educational advocacy, not a law firm. This page is general information for Oregon manufactured dwelling park and marina tenancies — you own the home and rent the space (ORS 90.505–90.850). It does not apply to apartment or other standard ORS 90.100–90.465 rentals. It is not legal advice. Talk with an attorney about your situation.
ORS Chapter 90 · Park and marina space tenancies
The Eviction Process in Oregon
Understanding the timeline, your rights in court, and legal protections for manufactured home residents.
This page does not apply to apartment rentals (ORS 90.120(5)).
The process of eviction is a multi-step legal journey. Only a judge can award possession to a landlord. You have the right to defend yourself in court.
Step-by-Step Timeline
1
Termination Notice
The start of the process. Often includes a ‘cure’ period allowing you to fix the issue before further action.
2
Filing Complaint
If the issue is not cured, the landlord officially files a complaint in court to begin legal proceedings.
3
First Appearance
This is NOT a trial. It is a mandatory court date to either set a formal trial date or attempt to settle.
4
Settlement/Answer
Reach a ‘Stipulated Agreement’ with the landlord, or file an ‘Answer’ presenting your legal defenses.
5
The Trial
A formal hearing before a judge. Crucially, the burden of proof rests entirely on the landlord to justify the eviction.
6
Prevailing Party
The final outcome. If the tenant wins, they remain. If the landlord wins, a lockout process begins, and storage agreements for belongings must be navigated.
Safe Harbor Provision (ORS 90.370)
To guarantee protection under this statute, you must complete two critical steps:
Step 1: Good Faith Counter-Claim
You must file a legitimate counter-claim against the landlord.
Step 2: Pay Disputed Rent to Court
You must deposit the full amount of the disputed rent directly with the court, not the landlord.
Legal Definitions
Answer
The formal written document filed by the tenant in response to the landlord’s Complaint, outlining defenses.
Complaint
The initial legal document filed by the landlord to begin the eviction lawsuit.
Cure
Fixing the lease violation (e.g., paying late rent) within the time frame specified in the Termination Notice.
Need Legal Help?
We provide referrals to the Eviction Defense Project and Oregon State Bar.
Oregon Law Help · Legal Aid Services of Oregon (LASO) · Oregon State Bar Referral Program