Looking to set up a glampground - here's a look at Airbnb, Hipcamp, and short-term-rental Regulations in the beautiful state of Oregon.
Oregon’s misty forests, rugged coastlines, and sprawling high desert make it a glamping goldmine. Whether you’re dreaming of a site near Crater Lake or the Willamette Valley, launching a glamping operation with standout structures like our eco-friendly cabins could mean tackling a web of state, county, and platform rules. Here’s your in-depth guide to setting up a site that thrives—legally and profitably.
Zoning and Land Use
Oregon’s land-use laws, shaped by statewide goals under ORS 197.175, fiercely protect farmland and forests. Rural zones like Forest (F-1) or Exclusive Farm Use (EFU) often allow “private campgrounds” with county approval—check ORS 215.459 for the legal backbone. In counties like Deschutes or Lane, your site might qualify if it’s outside city limits; contact the Deschutes County Planning Division or similar offices to confirm. Urban edges, like Bend, demand commercial zoning or a conditional use permit per Bend Municipal Code 3.6.500.
Our Fuselage Cabins (pictured below) are modular and low-impact, ideal for rural EFU zones where minimal disruption is key. Their off-grid capabilities suit Oregon’s remote parcels, especially in the high desert near Bend, where flat land and solar potential abound.
Permits and Building Codes
Permits vary by structure size. Anything under 200 square feet—which all of which our structures fall within)—might even dodge full Oregon Building Codes Division scrutiny in rural areas, needing just a site permit. Larger setups with plumbing or power, like a tricked-out Fuselage, might trigger inspections, especially in fire-prone Jackson County where ember-resistant materials are a must (see OAR 918-480-0100). Coastal zones near Cannon Beach enforce wind-load standards—our elevated designs handle gusts effortlessly. Apply via portals like Multnomah County’s Land Use.
The Tree Tent, (pictured below) a suspended pod cabin with a wood stove, sidesteps heavy permitting in forested areas like the Cascades near Sisters. Its lightweight aluminum frame and ripstop polycotton shell meet safety codes while offering a cozy, Instagram-worthy vibe guests crave.
Health and Sanitation
Sanitation’s non-negotiable under Oregon Health Authority rules. Shared facilities—think composting toilets or portables—need waste plans approved by county health departments. On-site water requires annual testing for coliform per OAR 333-061. No facilities? Prove access within 500 feet. Eco-conscious Clackamas County loves greywater systems—pair them with our Wash Pod for a seamless fit.
The Outhouse and the Birdhouse (pictured side by side below) is a great fit for Oregon’s coast, like Tillamook, where standalone sanitation simplifies compliance. The Outhouse features off-grid-capable plumbing keeps things sustainable, perfect for eco-tourists flocking to foggy beaches. (But don't worry, it's great for on-grid as well). Wild Comfort in Devon, England, has them perched on a wooded hillside overlooking the sea, and completely off-grid.
Environmental Regulations
Oregon’s green streak shines in its regs. Near rivers or wetlands—like the Columbia Gorge—Department of Environmental Quality enforces setbacks and runoff controls. Forested zones demand wildfire prep—firebreaks and spark-proof setups are key east of the Cascades. Coastal sites might need Oregon Coastal Management Program nods to protect dunes. Low-impact designs rule here.
Our Tree Tent elevates above sensitive ground, making it a no-brainer for Crater Lake’s volcanic soils or Wallowa’s forests. Minimal footprint, maximum wow-factor—guests love the floating-in-nature feel.
Pictured Below: The Tree Tent's interior with a glimpse through the windows and skylight up into the canopy.
Airbnb and Hipcamp Considerations
Airbnb listings in Portland need Type A/B permits, plus $1M liability coverage from their policy—display that permit number. Bend caps rental days unless you’re on-site. Hipcamp thrives on rural land, but zoning must allow “recreational camping”—see Hipcamp Host Standards. Unique stays fetch $100–$300/night, per Glamping Hub.
Pictured Below: The Fuselage Eco-Cabin Interior with a table that converts to a full size bed with a two-bunk configuration to sleep a total of 4.
The Fuselage Cabin screams luxury for Airbnb in Bend’s tourist hub, while the Tree Tent’s quirky charm boosts Hipcamp bookings in rural Harney County’s desert expanses. Both draw influencers and high-end renters.
Pictured Below: The Fuselage—A versatile glamping pod all-season occupancy.
Local Tips and Next Steps
Counties differ—Tillamook guards its coast, Deschutes courts tourism. Start with your county planning office (e.g., Lane County Land Management) and tap Oregon Tourism Commission for lodging insights. Financing? Explore options via Tree Tents’ financing page if you'd like to consider a fast and easy way to scale your eco-dream more quickly.
Oregon’s glamping market rewards the bold and sustainable. With Tree Tents’ collection of structures, you’re not just meeting regs—you’re setting the bar.
Pictured Below: The Tree Tent suspended in the forest nudged up to a beautiful deck as both an entrance and an outdoor living area for guests.
If we can help with any thoughts or questions, or you'd like to talk about adding our structures to your site, please get in touch!
