Substance Use | Family & Child Laws | Support Happens Here | Being a Good Neighbour | Vehicles & Driving
Alcohol
The legal drinking age in the U.S. is 21. When you order a drink, you will often be asked to present your photo ID as proof that you are of legal drinking age. Your passport can be used for this, unless you have another form of U.S. photo ID such as an Oregon Driver’s License. Driver’s Licenses from another country will not be accepted. View accepted forms of Identification here.
- It is illegal to buy alcohol for anyone under the age of 21.
- You cannot carry an open bottle of alcohol in public places such as streets and parks, and you can be arrested for this, even if you are 21 years of age or older. This is something that students have gotten in trouble for in the past.
Cannabis
Cannabis (also known as weed or marijuana) is legal in the state of Oregon. The legal age to smoke or consume cannabis in Oregon is 21. Before you consider using recreational cannabis in Oregon, it is important to know and understand the facts and policies about its use. Just like with alcohol and other drugs, there are existing laws. The university also has a policy regarding the use of cannabis. Violations are subject to sanctions according to the UO Student Conduct Code.
- You cannot use or possess any form of cannabis anywhere on University of Oregon property, including Autzen Stadium. This means no vaporizers, no edibles, and no smoking. This policy also supports the smoke- and tobacco-free campus policy.
- You can only use cannabis at home (if your landlord allows it) or on private property (if the owner allows it). Check your lease!
- You cannot transport cannabis across any border, including into Washington.
- You may possess up to eight ounces of usable cannabis in your home and one ounce of usable cannabis outside the home, but not on campus.
- You cannot drive a vehicle or ride a bike under the influence of cannabis.
Smoking & Tobacco
The legal age to smoke or consume tobacco (including vaping and e-cigarettes) in Oregon is 21.
- It is illegal to buy tobacco products for anyone under the age of 21.
Smoke and Tobacco-Free University
The University of Oregon is committed to maintaining a healthy and safe learning, working, and living environment for our students, faculty, and staff, and other members of our community. Research shows that tobacco use in general constitutes a significant public health hazard. The University therefore strictly prohibits all Smoking or Tobacco Use on University Property and in University Vehicles. This policy applies to all persons, including but not limited to students, faculty, staff, contractors, and visitors. Review the policy for further details.
Other Drugs
Know the Risks
Substance Abuse Prevention and Education aims to curb drug and alcohol misuse and abuse by educating students and empowering them to make healthy decisions. Our harm-reduction lens does not promote or encourage the use of substances but instead equips students with information that may help aid in smart decision-making.
Legal Status in Oregon
In 2020, Oregon voters passed Measure 110 which decriminalized and reclassified to a civil violation the possession of small amounts of psychoactive substances including Schedule I drugs. When caught with narcotics, folks are now given citations and/or treatment options, rather than taken to jail. Possession of drugs on the UO campus is still against policy and may subject an individual to conduct sanctions. This includes cannabis. Additionally, the University of Oregon is a federally funded institution, which prohibits the use or possession of drugs as defined by the Drug-Free Communities and Schools Act as well as the Drug-Free Workplace Act.
Be Fentanyl Aware
Fentanyl puts both those experimenting with drugs for the first time and longtime users at a much higher risk of overdose than most other drugs. People have died from a single dose, some without knowing they were consuming the drug. (‘It’s crazy out there’: The reasons behind Oregon’s deepening drug crisis - OPB ). Most commonly found in pressed pills or powders, Fentanyl is a potent opioid that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. Avoid using illicit substances, take medication only prescribed to you, and never use alone. Learn more through Lane County Public Health and the CDC.
Know the Signs of an Overdose
Overdose is a serious medical event that can look different based on the substance consumed. Signs and symptoms of a depressant overdose may include shallow breathing, cold skin, vomiting, and loss of consciousness. Call 911 even if you’re unsure.
Naloxone Saves Lives
Naloxone (also known as Narcan) is an opioid antagonist capable of reversing an overdose from Fentanyl or other opioidergic substances. To obtain naloxone, visit your local pharmacy or attend a training held on campus each term. Learn how to administer Narcan through NEXT Distro.
Legal Protection
There are some legal protections if you seek help for someone experiencing alcohol poisoning or a drug overdose:
- Oregon Medical Amnesty: law protects someone experiencing alcohol poisoning and the person who calls 911 on their behalf from receiving a minor in possession (MIP).
- Oregon’s Good Samaritan: overdose law protects folks in the event of an overdose. If someone is overdosing and you seek medical help, neither of you can be arrested or prosecuted for possessing drugs, frequenting a place where drugs are used, or violating probation.
- We also recommend students familiarize themselves with the Responsible Action Protocol policy found in the UO Student Conduct Code.
Resources for Families
Introduction to U.S. Law
For those who have children and/or partner's while being in graduate school, we want you to be prepared and safe during your time in the U.S. Here are some initial resources for family and child laws in the U.S. and we encourage you to do additional research to be informed. University of Oregon is providing this information simply as a resource and is not legal advice. UO Basic Needs offers legal advise for students.
Seatbelts & Car Seat Safety
Anyone riding in a moving car must be wearing a seat belt. Children must be secured in an appropriate child passenger restraint (safety seat or booster seat) until they are at least 6 years old or weigh at least 60 lbs. Infants under 20 lbs. must be secured in a rear facing car seat.
Having a baby & U.S. Citizenship
If your baby will be born in the U.S., they will be considered a U.S. citizen. U.S. laws do not require that your baby give up citizenship from your home country (if they are considered as such by the laws of your country), but your home country may not accept the dual citizenship status. Contact your home country embassy in the U.S. to register their birth and if you have questions about citizenship. Parents of a U.S. citizen child are eligible to apply for U.S. permanent resident status when the child is 21 years old. To travel and re-enter the U.S., your child will need a U.S. passport.
Unattended Children
There are strict laws in the US about leaving children alone and/or unattended, either in cars (such as outside a restaurant or store), in public, or at home. It is a crime to leave anyone in a car who is incapable of getting out without help. It is better to awaken a sleeping child than to risk their possible harm and/or face arrest.
Child Abuse
Child abuse is a very serious crime in the U.S. Child abuse is defined as any act or failure to act (neglect) on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation or any act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm. In the U.S., the following people are required by law to report suspected child abuse: Doctors, nurses, dentists, mental health professionals, social workers, teachers, day care workers, and law enforcement personnel.
Intimate Partner Violence
Intimate partner violence and emotional abuse are behaviors used by one person in a relationship to control the other. Violence can be criminal and includes physical assault (hitting, pushing, shoving, etc.), sexual abuse (unwanted or forced sexual activity), and stalking. Although emotional, psychological and financial abuse are not criminal behaviors, they are forms of abuse and can lead to criminal violence. Although both men and women can be abused, most victims are women.
See Something, Say Something, Do Something
There are a number of reasons why students might need help that you can report, including their physical and mental well-being, issues of bias, demonstrating concerning behaviors, or you are concerned they are missing. More information about these possible concerns and our process is listed below.
UO Care and Advocacy Program
Help for Victims or Survivors
If you are a victim or survivor of sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, sexual or gender-based harassment, and/or stalking and need help, we are here to help.
- There are staff available 24 hours a day for confidential advice and assistance.
- 541-346-SAFE (7233)
- Call anytime to speak with a counselor who can support you and help connect you with the assistance and services you need.
Living off campus, you wear many hats: You are a renter, a neighbor, and a member of the community. In these roles, you have rights and responsibilities.
Responsibilities as a Renter & Community Member
Keep the Noise Down
Noise violations can happen at any time of the day, though there is a specific prohibition on amplified sound from 10 p.m. - 7a.m. This means that) after 10 p.m. you could turn down amplified sound such as music to not disrupt your neighbors.
Hosting Parties
The Ordinance of Unruly Gatherings, aka the "social host ordinance," holds residents criminally responsible for hosting (or even allowing) an unruly party where alcohol is consumed and where additional violations are happening, like minor in possession, noise disturbance, disorderly conduct, and littering. Getting this citation means that your landlord will be notified (and could be fined if it happens multiple times), and you will be fined as much as $1,000… and the fines can go up for repeat offenses.
The Party Registration Program: aims to reduce noise and community disturbances in neighborhoods close to the University of Oregon and gives hosts of social gatherings a chance to receive a warning call instead of immediate police intervention if a complaint has been received. Ultimately, the program is designed to reduce the need for additional police presence as a result of social gatherings and promote safe and responsible hosting.
Parking
Always park in legal and appropriate spaces. No blocking sidewalks, driveways, or yellow zones, and park facing the direction of traffic.
Bring in the Thundercans! (Eugene)
Garbage and recycling bins can only remain at the curb for 24 hours per Eugene City Code.
Student Conduct & Community Standards
The Student Conduct Code applies to behavior off campus, including occasions where students are warned or cited by a law enforcement agency. The student conduct process may result in outcomes ranging from a Warning, Disciplinary Probation, Suspension, or Expulsion.
Your Rights as a Renter & Community Member
Eugene
The City of Eugene’s Rental Housing Code establishes minimum standards to protect you from living in unsafe or unkempt rentals. Contact the Rental Housing Program if you need help communicating with your property manager over safety or security concerns at your rental.
Portland
The City of Portland has adopted local requirements that provide additional rights and responsibilities for landlords and applicants for rental housing, beyond state law requirements, during the rental unit advertising and application process. Review the City of Portland's Landlord and Tenant Resources.
Conflict Resolution
If conflict arises with roommates or neighbors, reach out to The UO Student Conflict Resolution Center! This free, private, impartial, and off-the-record problem-solving resource for UO Students can help with training, facilitation, and dispute resolution services.
Protect Yourself from Property Crime
- Always lock your doors and windows when you leave your home.
- Use a good u-lock for your bike and lock the frame to a secure object. Bike registration with the UO is required for everyone who bikes on campus.
- Remove anything visible from your vehicle before locking up—you may not think it’s valuable, but is it worth a broken window?
- Check out our Safety & Security page for more tips!
Need Help?
- Emergencies, both on and off campus: call 911
- Non-Emergency
- Eugene: police-fire-EMS: 541-682-5111
- UO Police Department nonemergency: 541-346-2919
Registration & License Plates
If you have or plan to buy a car, you need to register it and get license plates at the Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services (DMV) Offices.
Driver’s License
As a visitor, you can legally drive in Oregon if you have a valid driver license from:
- Any U.S. State or territory
- The District of Columbia
- A Canadian Province or another country
You are considered a visitor if:
- Your permanent residence is outside Oregon
- You are in the military stationed in Oregon
- You are attending school in Oregon and are paying non-resident tuition
- You do not plan to take any steps to become a resident of Oregon
You can apply for an Oregon Driver’s License from the DMV.
Car Insurance
In Oregon, it is illegal to drive without liability insurance coverage. You must give your insurance policy number every time you register a vehicle.
For more information about having a vehicle in Oregon, visit our Transportation page.
Questions?
If you have any other questions, email us at gegradstudies@uoregon.edu. We look forward to speaking with you!