Multnomah County, OR Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)

Under § 15.229(A)(15), obstruction of a public sidewalk or roadway by trees, bushes, roots, other natural growth, soil or solid waste is a declared nuisance. Per § 15.230, the Health Officer or Sheriff investigates, then issues written notice demanding abatement within 30 days (or a shorter deadline if public safety requires it). The owner can request a hearing within seven days under § 15.231. This nuisance subchapter's own title clause (§ 15.225) says it applies to both unincorporated and incorporated areas of the county for public-health-vector abatement purposes, but Portland separately maintains and enforces its own sidewalk right-of-way rules under the Portland City Code, so Portland residents should check that code instead.