WHAT ARE THE CITY’S POLICIES ON CAMPING?

Unsanctioned camping is not permitted in the City (City Code 14A.50.020 and 14A.50.050). 

When camps are cleaned up, campers are provided at least 48 hours and as much as 10 days advance written notification. This is per HB 4054 and an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). Previously, campers were provided at least 24 hours and as much as 7 days advance written notice per the Anderson Settlement Agreement, but with the IGA with ODOT the 48 hour to 10 day timeline now extends to all City and ODOT properties and rights-of-way within the City limits. The City will store any items retrieved that are determined to be of reasonable value and/or utility for up to 30 days so that people can retrieve their belongings.

City enforcement will prioritize areas that pose the greatest risk to public health and safety. The City will continue to work with social service providers and the Portland Police Bureau to actively clean up campsites and help to get individuals the services they need. Police will continue to use compassion in enforcement, recognizing that the City doesn’t have enough shelter beds for everyone, and that some people have to sleep outside.

Should higher-impact camping exist, the City will remove camps, with an emphasis on explaining how they can camp in a low-impact way and where they can go to have an indoor bed space.

Shelter Information

• Call 2-1-1, text 898211, or visit 211info.org.