Oregon law states that "A child should not be left in a position of authority or be left alone in situations beyond his ability to handle. Each child must be looked at individually to make sure he or she is physically and emotionally able to handle the given responsibility. The law does not specify the age at which a child can be left alone. However, a child under 10 cannot be left unattended for such a period of time as may likely endanger their health or welfare (ORS 163.545). " http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/children/abuse/abuse_neglect.shtml

"At what age can a child be left home alone? Legally at 10 years of age; however, you may want to consider ORS 163.545. 163.545 Child neglect in the second degree. (1) A person having custody or control of a child under 10 years of age commits the crime of child neglect in the second degree if, with criminal negligence, the person leaves the child unattended in or at any place for such period of time as maybe likely to endanger the health or welfare of such child (2) Child neglect in the second degree is a Class A misdemeanor." City of Albany, Oregon Police FAQ There are very few states in the U.S. with legal minimum ages for children home alone, but many state agencies have published guidelines. Georgia, Illiniois, Maryland and Oregon are a few of the states with specific ages specified in their laws. 12 years of age appears to be the most common recommendation. http://www.latchkey-kids.com/latchkey-kids-age-limits.htm provides a state by state comparison with references. This site also provides one guideline from a California agency representative who suggests that 8 year olds and over can be left at home for up to several hours (usually after school before a parent gets home from work).

Oregon POLICE can be discriminatory, if you look young, and easy to intimidate, you are more likely to be stopped or questioned. My 11 year old son, american red cross certified to be home alone and babysit, was sitting inside my car for less than 15 minutes while I exchange an item in a store. Police just got done talking to him after about 15 seconds when I got back to my car, and I was questioned. Worse, police called backup police, another car, to "harasse me" in case I have to do something stupid(???). Anyway, Police force is using too much TAXDOLLARS for domestic issues that are more often than not, invalid or cannot be substantiated. I did not get a ticket or get arrested, because the police knows I will fight through hell in court if he does. MORAL OF THE STORY: Create a family protection group against unlawful accusations.