Oregon multifamily owners who have considered converting their apartment communities to smoke-free housing under the new law may want to start planning now.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, House Bill 4120 gives apartment owners a clear legal process for adopting smoke-free policies that apply to existing residents after providing 180 days’ written notice. While the law does not require landlords to prohibit smoking, it gives owners a statewide framework for making the transition.
For many apartment owners, the effective date may seem months away. However, converting an occupied property to a smoke-free community involves much more than sending a notice. Owners who begin preparing now can review leases, update policies, communicate with residents and train staff well before the law takes effect.
The smoke-free housing bill was among a number of new laws passed this year by the Oregon legislature.
Why the law matters
Smoke-free housing has become increasingly popular with renters and many owners view it as a way to reduce turnover costs, improve resident satisfaction and minimize smoke migration between apartments. Owners also cite lower cleaning and repainting costs after move-outs, reduced odor complaints and a lower fire risk.
What Oregon multifamily owners should do now
- Review current leases: Determine whether existing leases address smoking, vaping, marijuana use, balconies, patios, common areas and lease enforcement.
- Meet with legal counsel: Work with an Oregon landlord-tenant attorney to prepare lease language, notices and house rules that comply with state law.
- Develop a resident communication plan: Plan how and when residents will be notified. Consider FAQs, emails, community meetings, posted notices and reminder communications.
- Define the smoke-free policy: Decide whether the policy covers cigarettes, cigars, vaping products, marijuana, outdoor common areas and private patios or balconies.
- Train onsite staff: Managers and leasing staff should understand how to document complaints, respond to violations and consistently enforce the new policy.
Bottom line
Although House Bill 4120 does not take effect until Jan. 1, 2027, multifamily owners who expect to convert their communities to smoke-free housing should begin planning now.
Updating leases, developing communication strategies and preparing staff will likely make the transition smoother once the law becomes effective.
