No, home production of moonshine remains illegal in Oregon under both federal and state statutes, despite recent legislative discussions. The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) enforces strict adherence to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) regulations, which prohibit unlicensed distillation. While some states permit limited home brewing, Oregon’s laws align with federal prohibitions, leaving no legal pathway for personal moonshine production. Proposed 2026 amendments to HB 2615, if passed, may introduce narrow exceptions for educational or research purposes, but current statutes remain unchanged.
Key Regulations for Making Moonshine at Home in Oregon
- Federal Prohibition: The TTB’s 27 CFR Part 1 explicitly bans unlicensed distillation, with penalties including fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment. Oregon courts defer to federal enforcement, leaving no state-level loopholes.
- State Enforcement: The OLCC actively collaborates with the ATF to investigate illegal distillation operations, particularly in rural counties where clandestine stills are frequently dismantled. Recent 2024 seizures in Lane and Douglas counties underscore aggressive enforcement.
- Permitted Alternatives: Only licensed distilleries may produce spirits for commercial sale, while home brewing is restricted to beer and wine under ORS 471.035, with strict limits on alcohol content and production volume.