Oregon law does not allow marriage between first cousins. This prohibition is clear and applies whether the cousins are related by whole blood, half blood, or adoption. There are no exceptions, waivers, or special circumstances under which first cousins can legally marry in the state.
Oregon State law does not allow the marriage of first cousins or nearer of kin. There are no exceptions, waivers, or refunds to the license fee.
Washington County, OR Marriage Licenses
What Relationships Are Banned?
Under Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS 106.020), marriages are prohibited and void if the parties are:
- First cousins or closer (including siblings, half-siblings, parents, children, aunts, and uncles)
- Related by blood or adoption
This means you cannot legally marry your first cousin, whether you are full or half cousins, or cousins through adoption (unless both are adopted, in which case the law may allow it).
Who Can Marry?
- Second cousins and more distant relatives are permitted to marry in Oregon.
- First cousins once removed (the child of your cousin or your parent’s cousin) are also allowed to marry.
No Exceptions or Loopholes
Oregon’s ban on first cousin marriage is a blanket prohibition. Unlike some states that allow cousin marriage under certain conditions (such as age or infertility), Oregon does not provide any such exceptions.
Out-of-State Marriages
If you marry your first cousin in a state where it is legal, Oregon does not recognize that marriage as valid if you are residents of Oregon or intend to reside in Oregon.
Summary Table: Cousin Marriage in Oregon
| Relationship Type | Marriage Legal in Oregon? |
|---|---|
| First cousin | No |
| First cousin (half blood) | No |
| First cousin (adoption) | No |
| First cousin once removed | Yes |
| Second cousin | Yes |
| More distant cousins | Yes |
It is illegal to marry your first cousin in Oregon. The law is explicit, and there are no exceptions. Marriages between second cousins or more distant relatives are permitted. Always check with your local county clerk or legal counsel if you have questions about specific relationships or marriage requirements in Oregon.
Sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
- https://www.washingtoncountyor.gov/at/recording/marriage-licenses
- https://www.wweek.com/news/dr-know/2024/03/02/oregonians-cannot-marry-their-cousins-but-what-if-they-could/
- https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_106.020