Portland, OR Homelessness & Encampment Rules: Sit-Lie Rules (2026)

PCC 14A.50.020 prohibits camping on any public property or public right-of-way during specified daytime hours (currently 8 AM to 8 PM), with all-day prohibitions in additional restricted zones (parks, areas within 250 feet of schools and shelters, certain high-fire-risk areas). The ordinance was substantially amended in 2024 (Ordinance 191606) following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson (2024), which removed Eighth Amendment limits on enforcing camping prohibitions even when shelter is unavailable. Portland's enforcement protocol nonetheless requires officers and Park Rangers to offer alternative shelter through the Joint Office of Homeless Services before issuing a citation, and to consider individual circumstances. Penalties under PCC 14A.50.030: first violation is a warning; subsequent violations are a Class C misdemeanor with up to 30 days jail and $100 fine, but Portland's policy is to divert to community court and shelter access where possible. The Sidewalk Management Plan (PCC 14A.50.040) regulates obstruction of pedestrian rights-of-way, including sitting or lying on downtown sidewalks during business hours.