How Gresham Handles Public Conduct: A Practical Guide
If you live in Gresham or are thinking about moving there, public conduct are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Gresham has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of public conduct, and some of them might surprise you.
Public Alcohol Use
Gresham prohibits drinking or carrying an open container of alcohol in any public place unless the location is licensed by the Oregon Liquor Control Commission.
Key details: Ban: Open alcohol in any public place. Exception: OLCC-licensed premises. Exception: Permitted special events. Offense class: Class B misdemeanor. Max fine: $1,000.
Public drinking or carrying an open container outside a licensed premises or permitted special event is a Class B misdemeanor under GRC 7.10.120, punishable by a fine up to $1,000 in addition to misdemeanor remedies.
Compared to other cities, Gresham takes a harder line on public alcohol use. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Public Urination
Gresham makes it unlawful to urinate or defecate anywhere in view of a public place, including in view of a residential area, with fines up to $1,000 per violation.
Key details: Prohibited conduct: Urinating or defecating in public view. Scope: Includes view of residential areas. Max fine: $1,000. Code section: GRC § 7.10.075.
Public urination or defecation in view of a public place, including a residential area, is subject to a fine of up to $1,000 under Gresham's public offenses code.
Compared to other cities, Gresham takes a harder line on public urination. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Outdoor Smoking Restrictions
Gresham bans smoking or using tobacco in any form in city parks, trails, and open spaces, covering cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and smokeless tobacco, with an exception for Native American ceremonial use.
Key details: Prohibited conduct: Smoking or tobacco use in parks. Max fine: $500. Exception: Native ceremonial tobacco use. Covers: Vapes, e-cigarettes, chew, snuff.
Violating any City Park, Trail, and Open Space Prohibition, including the smoking ban, is subject to a fine of up to $500, enforced by park officials or peace officers.
This is one of the stricter rules in Gresham's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
The Bottom Line
Gresham is tougher than many cities when it comes to public conduct. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Gresham, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
These rules come from Gresham's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.