From the Oregon Health Authority:

Many Oregon families may have lost all vital documents due to the wildfires. Family members may also have died in the wildfires. Under a new temporary rule, up to three certified copies of Oregon vital records will be provided free of charge if requested in connection with Executive Order 20-35. This new rule will remain in effect until March 1, 2021.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this mean?

The State Vital Records office will provide up to three (3) certified copies of a birth, death, marriage, divorce, domestic partnership or dissolution of domestic partnership free of charge if the record is requested in connection with Executive Order 20-35 related to wildfire response. The Executive Order only applies to fires that occurred in Oregon.

County Vital Records offices will provide up to three (3) certified copies of death or birth records free of charge if the record is requested in connection with Executive Order 20-35 related to wildfire response.  

When does the fee waiver go into effect?

The fee waiver goes into effect September 14, 2020 and will remain in effect until March 1, 2021.

How do individuals get the vital records fees waived?

When ordering the certified copies of the vital record, the person ordering the certificates must state the reason for needing the record as “Executive Order 20-35” or “Oregon 2020 Wildfires”. It is important that this information is noted on the order so the fee can be waived appropriately. See link for ordering information.

What happens if I order by mail?

Complete and sign the order form. State the reason for needing the record as “Executive Order 20-35” or “Oregon 2020 Wildfires”. It is important that this information is noted on the order so we know why a fee is not included. Provide identification as required. We may request additional documentation if it appears the request for records is not in connection with the wildfires.   

What happens if I order over the Internet or by phone?

If you are ordering via the Internet or phone, you will need to pay the entire fee upon ordering. The certificate fee will be refunded once the order is received by the Center for Health Statistics. State the reason for needing the record as “Executive Order 20-35” or “Oregon 2020 Wildfires” when completing the order. It is important that this information is noted on the order so the certificate fee can be waived appropriately, and a refund submitted. We may request additional documentation if it appears the request for records is not in connection with the wildfires.

County Vital Records offices will provide up to three (3) certified copies of death or birth records free of charge if the record is requested in connection with Executive Order 20-35 related to wildfire response.