Beyond the rulemaking
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality implements Oregon's environmental laws through its rules and related programs. Throughout each year, DEQ proposes rules that define how the public and industry interact with the environment in an effort to benefit the economy, human habitation, and the preservation of natural areas. But DEQ only proposes rules. The Environmental Quality Commission must adopt the proposed rules for them to become law.
Adopted rules only become effective when filed with the Oregon's Secretary of State. Once the EQC decides to adopt a rule, they are normally filed within a few days after adoption.
Note: If you are looking for rulemaking information prior to 2024, you can search online or submit a public records request. Visit our Public Records page for more information.
Find an adopted rule
*340-200-0040, 253-0010, 0300 and 0370 are effective Jan. 10, 2025; All other rules are effective July 1, 2025
**DEQ-1-2026 is effective May 1, 2026; DEQ-2-2026 takes effect 7/1/2026