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Portland, OR Public Conduct: Jaywalking (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Crosswalk distance
Must use crosswalk within 150 feet
Elsewhere
Must cross at right angles
Code location
Title 16, Chapter 16.70
Enforced by
Portland Police Bureau

Summary

Portland bars crossing a street outside a marked crosswalk whenever one sits within 150 feet, and requires pedestrians crossing elsewhere to cross the street at right angles under City Code Chapter 16.70.

16.70.210 Pedestrians Must Use Crosswalks. No pedestrian may cross a street other than within a crosswalk if within 150 feet of a crosswalk. 16.70.220 Pedestrians Must Cross at Right Angles. A pedestrian must cross a street at right angles unless crossing within a crosswalk.

Full Breakdown

Portland City Code § 16.70.210 makes it unlawful for a pedestrian to cross a street outside a crosswalk if a crosswalk is within 150 feet. Section 16.70.220 separately requires that any pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk do so at right angles to the street, not diagonally. Together the two sections set a simple proximity test: within 150 feet of a marked crossing, you must use it; anywhere else, you must cross straight across. Both sections sit in Title 16, Vehicles and Traffic, Chapter 16.70, Miscellaneous Regulations, and apply on streets citywide.

Violations & Fines

Crossing outside a crosswalk within 150 feet of one, or crossing diagonally instead of at right angles elsewhere, violates §§ 16.70.210 and 16.70.220; Portland Police Bureau officers can cite pedestrians under Title 16.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is jaywalking illegal in Portland?
Yes. Portland City Code § 16.70.210 requires pedestrians to use a marked crosswalk whenever one is within 150 feet, and § 16.70.220 requires crossing at right angles elsewhere.
Does the crosswalk rule apply outside downtown?
Yes. §§ 16.70.210 and 16.70.220 sit in Title 16, Vehicles and Traffic, which governs streets citywide, not just the Central City.

Sources & Official References

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