No, child labor under 14 is not legal in Oregon except under highly restricted exemptions. State law aligns with federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) provisions, prohibiting employment for minors under 14 unless engaged in specific agricultural or entertainment work with prior Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) approval. Oregon’s 2026 compliance updates tighten oversight, requiring parental consent, limited hours, and direct supervision for any permitted exceptions.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Oregon
- Prohibited Employment: Minors under 14 are barred from non-agricultural labor, including retail, food service, and domestic work, per ORS 653.305 and BOLI enforcement guidelines.
- Agricultural Exemptions: Limited exceptions exist for family-owned farms or seasonal agricultural tasks, but require written parental consent and adherence to federal child labor protections (29 CFR Part 570).
- Entertainment Industry: Minors under 14 may work in film, theater, or modeling with a BOLI-issued child performer permit, mandating school-hour compliance and a maximum 4-hour daily work limit.
Oregon’s 2026 regulatory framework further mandates employers to submit work permits to BOLI 14 days prior to hiring, with penalties up to $1,000 per violation for non-compliance. Local school districts may impose additional restrictions via work-study programs. Employers must verify age through official documentation before onboarding any minor.