Report a Pothole

To report a pothole within the City of Portland's jurisdiction, call 503-823-BUMP (2867) and leave a message with the following information: street location, nearest cross street or block address, your name and phone number.

A pothole is a bowl-shaped hole caused by localized disintegration of the pavement surface. Potholes are typically caused by the continued deterioration of another type of distress, such as alligator cracking, raveling, poor drainage, or a failed patch after pieces of the original pavement surface have been dislodged. Weak spots in the base or subgrade or the severity of the surrounding distress accelerate potholes. Potholes are considered a structural form of deterioration. For more information about potholes, read this Pothole Backgrounder. 

To report a pothole in other jurisdictions outside Portland city limits, use the following numbers:

• Clackamas County - 503-650-3262
• Multnomah County - 503-988-5050
• Washington County - 503-846-7623
• Beaverton - 503-526-3709
• Gresham - 503-618-2525
• Lake Oswego - 503-635-0280
• Milwaukie - 503-786-7600
• ODOT Freeways - 503-283-5859

Report a sinkhole

at 503-823-1700. 

A sinkhole is a hole that reaches past the base of the roadway. Sinkholes are generally larger and deeper than potholes. They are usually caused by a source of water under the pavement, such as a broken pipe. The water causes the soil to wash away, creating a void under the pavement, and eventually the pavement gives away. When sinkholes are big, they can be hazardous to drivers and pedestrians. 

About utility cuts 

A utility cut is a rectangular excavation in the roadway. These cuts are made by utilities and plumbers to reach underground lines. The contractors are responsible for filling the ditch and paving it temporarily, and notifying the City upon completion of their work. The City will make a permanent repair to the roadway.