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Public Conduct

Hillsboro's Public Conduct: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles public conduct a little differently. In Hillsboro, Oregon, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Public Alcohol Use

Drinking, selling or carrying an opened alcohol container on any Hillsboro public land or public facility is banned unless a permit, City regulation or other law specifically authorizes it.

Key details: Applies to: All public lands and facilities. Banned: Open or broken-seal containers. Exception: Permitted or licensed events only. Citation: HMC § 9.32.040(D).

Drinking or carrying an open alcohol container on Hillsboro public land without authorization violates HMC 9.32.040(D), punishable up to $500 per day under HMC 1.08.010(B).

This is one of the stricter rules in Hillsboro's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Outdoor Smoking Restrictions

Smoking, vaping and tobacco use are banned on all Hillsboro public lands and facilities, at City-sponsored events, and in any City-owned vehicle or property, with narrow exceptions for unionized employees.

Key details: Covers: Smoking, vaping, tobacco use. Applies to: All public lands and facilities. Also bans: Use in City vehicles/property. Exception: Union-contract City employees only. Citation: HMC § 9.32.095.

Smoking, vaping or using tobacco on Hillsboro public land, at a City event, or in City vehicles violates HMC 9.32.095, punishable up to $500 per day under HMC 1.08.010(B).

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Hillsboro actively enforces its outdoor smoking restrictions requirements.

Skateboarding Rules

Hillsboro allows skateboards on most sidewalks, but the Municipal Code bans them on sidewalks inside the downtown core bounded by Lincoln, Baseline, 5th, and Adams, and caps sidewalk speed at 10 mph citywide.

Key details: Downtown ban zone: Lincoln to Baseline, 5th to Adams. Sidewalk speed limit: 10 mph. Roadway riding: Crosswalks only, per § 8.28.050. Fine: Up to $500 per violation.

Violating HMC 8.28 is a Code offense; general Code violations carry up to a $500 fine under HMC 1.08.010(B), with each day of a continuing violation a separate offense.

The Bottom Line

Hillsboro is tougher than many cities when it comes to public conduct. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Hillsboro, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Hillsboro's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.