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Chapter 16.20 Public Right-of-Way Parking

City Code Chapter

16.20.001 Purpose.

(Amended by Ordinances 165594 and 179141, effective March 23, 2005.)  

  1. This Chapter describes the regulation of parking on City of Portland owned or operated property, including but not limited to surface parking lots, parking structures and designated parking areas;  and public right-of-ways, including but not limited to streets, designated parking areas, planting strips, and sidewalks.
  2. The Public Property and Right-of-Way Parking Chapter is organized in six Sections:
  3. A.  16.20.100  General Parking Methods describes the general rules of legal parking and enforcement of parking regulations.
  4. B.  16.20.200  Regulated Parking Zones describes additional regulations for public areas that are designated for no or limited-term parking or only for specific parking uses.
  5. C.  16.20.400  Metered Parking Zones describes additional regulations for parking in areas with parking meters.
  6. D.  16.20.500  General Parking Permits describes the privileges and regulations that apply to general parking permits issued by the City Traffic Engineer or the City Engineer.  These permits allow a person to reserve the public right-of-way for certain uses during a defined period of time.  General Parking Permits are generally issued to a person but may require the use of vehicle identification cards.
  7. E.  16.20.600  Vehicle Parking Permits describes the privileges and regulations that apply to vehicle permits issued by the City Traffic Engineer.  Vehicle Parking Permits are usually issued to a specific vehicle(s).
  8. F.  16.20.800  Area Parking Permit Program provides additional protection and parking management to areas with commuter parking problems.

16.20.110 Generally.

(Amended by Ordinance 165594, effective July 8, 1992.)  

  1. All persons parking a vehicle in the City of Portland must comply with the following rules in addition to any rules mandated by a parking zone, permit, or district, unless specifically directed otherwise by this Title, a traffic control device or an authorized officer.
  2. A.  Emergency vehicles may stop or park in any manner necessary at any time while serving an emergency.
  3. B.  No person may park or stop a vehicle other than in the direction of traffic.
  4. C.  When parking spaces are designated on a street with parking space markings, the vehicle must be parked in such a manner that the entire vehicle is located within official parking space markings.
  5. D.  When parking spaces are not designated on a street with parking space markings and when angle parking is not lawful, the vehicle must be parked in such a manner that both the front and rear tires closest to the curb or curb line are located not more than 1 foot from the curb or curb line.
  6. A two or three wheeled vehicle may park at an angle or perpendicular to traffic flow if its tire closest to the curb or curb line is located not more than one foot from the curb or curb line and the vehicle does not extend more than eight feet from the curb or curb line.
  7. E.  The operator who first begins maneuvering a motor vehicle into a vacant parking space on a street or public lot has priority to park in that space, and no other vehicle operator or person may attempt to interfere.
  8. F.  When the operator of a vehicle discovers the vehicle is parked adjacent to a building to which the fire department has been summoned, the operator must immediately remove the vehicle from the area unless directed otherwise by police or fire officers.

16.20.120 Prohibited Parking or Stopping of a Vehicle.

(Amended by Ordinances 165594, 166575, 170923, 173369, 176394, 176955, 179141 and 191736, effective July 1, 2024.)

  1. Except when specifically directed by authority of this Title or when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic, it is unlawful to park or stop a vehicle:
  2. A.  While such vehicle is equipped with a vehicle alarm unless such system is designed to, and does in fact, cease emitting an intermittent or constant sound after an aggregate time of 3 minutes within a 15 minute period on any public right-of-way or in a public park.
  3. B.  To angle load/unload (except within a legal angle parking space) on any street unless specifically authorized by an angle loading permit.  Unauthorized angle loading is hereby declared to be a traffic hazard and is subject to summary abatement.
  4. C.  At an angle to traffic flow except:
    1. 1.  Where angle parking is designated by official parking space markings or other traffic control devices.
    2. 2.  That a two or three wheeled vehicle may park in a legal parking area at an angle or perpendicular to traffic flow in accordance with 16.20.110 C. and D.
  5. D.  Outside of or across an official line or mark designating a parking space, or between such lines in a maneuvering area.
  6. E.  So as to prevent the free passage of other vehicles, including rail vehicles and bicycles, on any street, alley or City of Portland owned or operated property.
  7. F.  On or over an official fog or edge line.
  8. G.  Adjacent to a curb painted or taped yellow if the paint or tape is authorized by the City Traffic Engineer.
  9. H.  When the vehicle is: a truck, a truck trailer, a motor bus, a recreational vehicle, a utility trailer, a drop box or storage container, or has two or more rear axles in the public right-of-way adjacent to or directly across from residential, public park, church, or school property, except:
    1. 1.  When loading/unloading property belonging to the occupants of or performing a service on the adjacent residence, for a period not to exceed 8 hours; or
    2. 2.  A recreation vehicle when servicing or loading/unloading the vehicle for a period not to exceed 8 hours.
    3. 3.  That a vehicle may park adjacent to or directly across from public park property if authorized by a written permit from the Bureau of Parks and Recreation.
  10. I.  When the vehicle is: a truck, truck trailer, a motor bus, recreational vehicle, a utility trailer, a drop box or storage container, or has two or more rear axles in the public right-of-way adjacent to or directly across from commercial or industrial property, except:
    1. 1.  Between the hours of 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. for a period not to exceed 4 hours; or
    2. 2.  Between the hours of 4 p.m. and 6 a.m. when adjacent to a business or industry normally operating a regular work shift during these hours while loading/unloading a vehicle in conjunction with the operation of this business for a period not to exceed 2 hours.
  11. J.  On the roadway side of a vehicle which is stopped or parked:
    1. 1.  In an officially designated parking space; or
    2. 2.  Adjacent to the curb line of a street.
  12. K.  Alongside or opposite a street excavation or obstruction when stopping or parking would obstruct traffic.
  13. L.  That is required by state law to be registered that is not registered, whose registration has expired or that does not have a current permit in lieu of registration, or fails to display current registration.
  14. M.  Without doing all of the following if leaving the vehicle unattended:
    1. 1.  Stopping the engine;
    2. 2.  Turning the front wheels to the curb or side of the street when on any grade;
    3. 3.  Locking the ignition;
    4. 4.  Removing the key from the ignition; and
    5. 5.  Effectively setting the brake on the vehicle.
  15. N.  If the vehicle is a drop box parked during the hours of sunset to sunrise without reflective devices on the edge or side of the vehicle nearest the center of the street.  The reflective device must be plainly visible for a distance of 200 feet in either direction from the drop box, parallel with the center of the street.
  16. O.  If the vehicle is a drop box within 50 feet of an intersection without permission of the City Engineer, City Traffic Engineer, or the Portland Permitting & Development.  This regulation does not apply to the area of the street where the direction of traffic is leaving an intersection on a one-way street.
  17. P.  In the public right-of-way, public park, or city-owned or operated property if the vehicle is abandoned.
  18. Q.  In a manner that creates a traffic hazard impeding the safe movement of vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
  19. R.  That is required by law to display two registration plates if a plate is not displayed on the front and the rear of the vehicle.
  20. S.  Which is a government vehicle, in a parking space where government vehicles are prohibited.
  21. T.  Any violation of the City of Portland, Transportation Administrative Rule is subject to citation or fine for each violation.

16.20.130 Prohibited in Specified Places.

(Amended by Ordinance 165594, effective July 8, 1992.)  

  1. Except when specifically directed by authority of this Title or when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic, it is unlawful to park or stop a vehicle in any of the following places:
  2. A.  Within 50 feet of an intersection when:
    1. 1.  The vehicle or a view obstructing attachment to the vehicle is more than 6 feet in height; or
    2. 2.  Vehicle design, modification, or load obscures the visibility or view of approaching traffic, any traffic control sign, any traffic control signal, or any pedestrian in a crosswalk.
    3. This regulation does not apply to the area of the street where the direction of traffic is leaving an intersection on a one-way street.
  3. B.  Within 15 feet of a driveway to any fire station unless allowed by official signs or markings.
  4. C.  Within 10 feet of any fire hydrant, even when not marked by traffic control devices, except attended taxi cabs lawfully occupying properly signed taxi zones.
  5. D.  In front of any portion of a handicap access ramp. 
  6. E.  In front of and 10 feet on either side of a rural (vehicle) delivery mail box between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., except Sundays and official postal holidays.
  7. F.  Within any city park or golf course except in officially designated parking areas during the time the park is open to the public.  This provision does not apply to City or City-authorized vehicles used in park or golf course service, or to vehicles authorized by a written permit from the Bureau of Parks and Recreation.
  8. G.  In violation of the provisions of any area parking permit program as defined in 16.20.800.
  9. H.  On any mass transit lane or street as defined in Section 16.50.
  10. I.  On any planting strip, sidewalk, or pedestrian way.
  11. J.  On a shoulder unless a clear and unobstructed traffic lane of the roadway adjacent to the vehicle is left for the passage of other vehicles, and:
    1. 1.  The stopped or parked vehicle is visible from a distance of 200 feet in each direction upon the roadway; or
    2. 2.  A person, at least 200 feet in each direction upon the roadway, warns approaching motorists of the parked vehicle by use of flag persons, flags, signs or other signals.
  12. K.  On the approaches to or upon any restricted access highway, bridge, viaduct, or other elevated structure, unless permitted by authority of this Title.
  13. L.  On City-owned or City-operated property designated for vehicle parking by authorized City personnel only, without consent of the City, if there is in plain view on such property a sign prohibiting or restricting public parking.
  14. M.  Over, upon, or in such manner as to prevent access to any water meter, gate valve, or other appliance in use on any water meter connection of the Portland Water Bureau, located on public property, the public right-of-way or private property.
  15. N.  On any municipal terminal except in the place and manner permitted by official signs or markings.
  16. O.  On any pier or dock of a municipal terminal except when loading/unloading freight in compliance with any official signs or markings.
  17. P.  On or within an intersection.
  18. Q.  On or within a crosswalk.
  19. R.  Within any tunnel unless parking in officially designated spaces.
  20. S.  Within 7 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad track or within 25 feet of the center line of any set of tracks at any railroad or light rail crossing unless parking in officially designated spaces.
  21. T.  In the area between roadways of a divided street or highway.
  22. U.  On or within a bicycle lane, path, or trail.
  23. V.  In front of any portion of a driveway ingress/egress to the public right-of-way.

16.20.150 Prohibited Practices.

(Amended by Ordinances 165594, 166575 and 176585, effective July 5, 2002.)  

  1. No person may park or permit to be parked a vehicle on a street or other public property for the principal purpose of:
  2. A.  Displaying the vehicle for sale;
  3. B.  Repairing or servicing the vehicle, except while making repairs necessitated by an emergency for a period not to exceed 8 hours or as allowed for recreational vehicles in 16.20.120 (H2);
  4. C.  Displaying advertising from the vehicle; or
  5. D.  Selling merchandise from the vehicle, except when authorized by permit or City Code.  See also: 14A.50.030, 14A.50.050, 16.60.100 F., 16.70.550, 17.25, 17.26.

16.20.160 Use of Streets in Lieu of Off street Parking or Storage Prohibited.

(Added by Ordinance 171455; amended by Ordinances 176394, 182456 and 186639, effective July 11, 2014.)

  1. A.  It is unlawful for any public vehicle parking business, vehicle sales, repair, or servicing business to cause or permit a vehicle to be parked on a street, alley, lane, or other public right of way while such vehicle is in the custody, control, or possession of the business for the purpose of being parked, offered for sale, repaired, or serviced.
  2. B.  As used in this Section, “public vehicle parking business” means the business of offering off‑street vehicle parking or storage for a fee; “vehicle sales, repair, or servicing business” means the business of offering new or used vehicles for sale, lease, or rent, or of offering vehicle repairs or servicing; “vehicle” means any device, including any major portion or part thereof, in, on, upon, or by which any person or property may be transported or drawn upon a public highway except a device moved exclusively by human power, or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.
  3. C.  If a vehicle is parked on a street, alley, or lane, or other public right of way while in the custody, control, or possession of a public vehicle parking business or a vehicle sales, repair, or servicing business for the purpose of being parked or stored, offered for sale, lease, or rent, or being serviced or repaired, it is prima facie evidence that the person engaged in such business caused or permitted such vehicle to be so parked.
  4. D.  Except for vehicles associated with accessory home occupations per Chapter 33.203, it is unlawful for any business entity to store more than one vehicle on any block face between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.  It is unlawful for the operator of any accessory home occupation to park or store more than one vehicle used in association with the home occupation in the public right-of-way at any time.  The maximum size of the vehicle used in association with the home occupation is a pickup truck in the medium truck category as defined in Chapter 33.910.
  5. E.  The owner of the business, operator of the business, or the owner of the property where the business is located shall be the party responsible for any violation of this Section.

16.20.170 Storing Property on Street Prohibited.

(Amended by Ordinances 165594, 172788, 176955 and 191736, effective July 1, 2024.)

  1. A.  No person may store, or permit to be stored, a vehicle or other personal property on public right-of-way or other public property in excess of 24 hours without permission of the City Engineer, the City Traffic Engineer, or the Portland Permitting & Development. 
  2. B.  Failure to operate and move a vehicle or move nonvehicular property off of the block face within a 24-hour period constitutes prima facie evidence of storage and may be abated. 
  3. C.  Nonvehicular property stored for any amount of time in a metered space or regulated parking zone is a nuisance and may be summarily abated.
  4. D.  Notwithstanding section A above, vehicles described in section 16.20.120 H and I are subject to the limitations established in those sections.

16.20.190 Successive Violations.

  1. A.  After a citation for overtime parking has been issued and the cited vehicle remains parked or stopped within 500 feet on the same block face of where parked when cited for the previous violation, a separate violation occurs upon the expiration of each successive maximum period of parking time as designated by official signs, markings, or meters.  A separate citation may be issued for each successive violation.
  2. B.  After a citation for unlawful parking other than overtime parking is issued and the cited vehicle remains parked or stopped within 500 feet on the same block face of where parked when cited for the previous violation and continues to park in violation of parking law(s), a separate violation occurs on the next calendar day from when the last citation was issued.  A separate citation may be issued for each successive violation.

16.20.201 Purpose.

  1. Parking Zones are designated by the City Traffic Engineer to manage parking and traffic congestion in areas with special parking needs.

16.20.203 Regulated Parking Zone Designations.

  1. A.  Anyone may request that the City Traffic Engineer designate a regulated parking zone on any particular street or highway.
  2. B.  When evaluating designation of a regulated parking zone, factors the City Traffic Engineer may consider include:
    1. 1.  The nature of land use within the block;
    2. 2.  The volume of traffic;
    3. 3.  The volume of parking;
    4. 4.  The width of surface of the street;
    5. 5.  The relationship between the need for parking space for the land use in the block, for the use of the regulated parking zone, and the need for parking space for the general public;
    6. 6.  Patrons and prospective patrons of the places within the block or area to be served by the parking zone; and
    7. 7.  The hours of day or night when use of the parking zone is necessary or most convenient.
  3. C.  The standard for determining the location and size of any regulated parking zone will be the public welfare.

16.20.205 Enforcement of Regulated Parking Zones.

(Amended by Ordinances 176955 and 191736, effective July 1, 2024.)

  1. A.  A sign which regulates the amount of time a vehicle may park such as “Parking 30 minutes”, is in effect from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, excluding City recognized holidays, unless the regulating sign shows other restrictions for days or hours.
  2. B.  A sign without stated hours or days which regulates parking zones such as “No Parking”, “No Parking This Block”, “Bus Zone”, or “Truck Loading Zone, No Parking Anytime” is in effect all hours of all days, including City recognized holidays.
  3. C.  A sign which prohibits parking during certain hours or days such as “No Parking 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Monday through Friday” or “Truck Loading Zone 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday” is in effect during the days and times shown on the sign, excluding City recognized holidays.
  4. D.  For a parking sign which has an arrow, the direction in which the head of the arrow points is the direction that the regulation is in effect.
  5. E.  It is unlawful to put nonvehicular property in a regulated parking zone without permission of the City Engineer, the City Traffic Engineer or the Portland Permitting & Development.  Any nonvehicular property stored in a regulated parking zone is a nuisance and may be summarily abated.

16.20.210 No Parking Zones.

  1. No vehicle may park in any no-parking zone at any time.  Vehicles may stop in a no parking zone for a period not to exceed 30 seconds only to load/unload passengers.

16.20.215 Theater Zone.

  1. A vehicle may not park in a theater zone while the theater adjacent to the zone is open to the public. Theater hours must be posted and clearly readable from the theater zone. Vehicles may stop for the purpose of loading/unloading passengers for a period not to exceed 30 seconds.

16.20.220 Truck Loading Zones.

(Amended by Ordinances 165594, 166575, 176394 and 179141, effective March 23, 2005.)

  1. A.  Truck loading zones are established to prevent double parking and other illegal parking by designating a supply of parking spaces dedicated to the delivery of merchandise by trucks to commercial properties.
  2. B.  Only the following vehicles, while being actively loaded or unloaded, may park in a truck loading zone for no more than 30 minutes:
    1. 1.  A truck as defined by this Title;
    2. 2.  A vehicle defined by its Department of Motor Vehicles registration as a truck, van, or pick-up that exhibits the commercial nature of the vehicle according to paragraph 6;
    3. 3.  A passenger or other vehicle with an official commercial loading permit as defined in Section 16.20.620 or delivery permit as defined in Section 16.20.630 that exhibits the commercial nature of the vehicle according to paragraph 6;
    4. 4.  Any vehicle with Farm Vehicle registration plates when actively engaged in loading/unloading merchandise; or
    5. 5.  Taxicabs with a current taxicab permit as defined in Section 16.40.220 when actively engaged in loading/unloading passengers or packages, for a period not to exceed 15 minutes.
    6. 6.  Commercial signage required by this section must be:
      1. a.  On both sides of the vehicle;
      2. b.  Magnetic, static cling vinyl (which may not be used on tinted windows), decals or permanently painted;
      3. c.  No smaller than 8 1/2" by 11";
      4. d.  In 2-inch or larger lettering;
      5. e.  In a color that clearly contrasts with the color on which the lettering is displayed;  and
      6. f.  In lettering that is clearly visible at a distance of 20 feet.
  3. C.  Upon leaving a truck loading zone, a vehicle must vacate the block face of said truck loading zone or move 500 feet as measured along the curb line for a period of 1 hour before returning to a truck loading zone, a time zone, or a metered space, on the same block face.
  4. D.  Truck loading zones should not be located within 50 feet of an intersection in order to facilitate traffic safety.  This does not apply to the area of the street where the direction of traffic is leaving an intersection on a one-way street.

16.20.235 Tri-Met Bus Zone.

  1. No vehicle may park in any Tri-Met Bus Zone, except:
  2. A.  A Tri-Met Bus or a contract or franchise bus of Tri-Met while passenger loading/unloading for a period not to exceed 2 minutes;
  3. B.  When allowed by the terms of a contract or franchise with the City of Portland for a period not to exceed 2 minutes; or
  4. C.  A taxicab for a period not to exceed 15 minutes.  Taxicabs may not use Tri-Met bus zones during the hours of 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
  5. D.  The buses described in subsections A and B may park in a designated Tri-Met bus lay over zone for a period not to exceed 30 minutes.

16.20.240 Taxi Zone.

(Amended by Ordinance 176394, effective April 17, 2002.)

  1. A.  Location of taxi zones will be determined by the City Traffic Engineer with the advice of the Taxicab Regulation Supervisor. 
  2. B.  No vehicle may park in a taxi zone except a taxicab operated by authority of a current taxicab company permit and displaying a current taxi plate issued pursuant to PCC 16.40.710 E.
  3. C.  No taxicab driver may leave a vehicle unattended in a taxi zone adjacent to a fire hydrant for any reason. 
  4. D.  No person may leave a taxicab unattended in any taxi zone not adjacent to a fire hydrant except when assisting passengers to enter or alight from the taxicab or to carry a passenger’s baggage or when delivering packages, and then for a period not to exceed 15 minutes.
  5. E.  No person may make repairs to a taxicab parked in a Taxi Zone.

16.20.250 Disabled Person/Wheelchair User Zone.

(Amended by Ordinance 186575, effective July 1, 2014.)  

  1. No vehicle may stop or park in a disabled or wheelchair user zone except:
  2. A.  a vehicle transporting a disabled person with an official State-issued disabled person or wheelchair user registration plate, placard, permit or decal; or
  3. B.  a Tri-Met bus loading/unloading disabled passengers.

16.20.260 Time Zones.

  1. A.  A vehicle may park in a time zone only for a period not to exceed the posted time limit. 
  2. B.  A vehicle may not return to a time zone in the same block face or within 500 feet of where previously parked on the same block face for a 3-hour period.
  3. C.  Upon expiration of the designated time limit, as indicated by the parking zone sign, a citation may be issued if a vehicle remains parked or stopped on the same block face unless:
    1. 1.  The vehicle has moved 500 or more lineal feet, measured along the curb or edge line;
    2. 2.  The vehicle has moved to an unregulated parking area in the same block face; or
    3. 3.  The vehicle has vacated the block face for 3 hours.

16.20.270 Carpool Zone.

  1. No vehicle may park in a carpool zone during designated hours except vehicles displaying a current carpool permit.

16.20.280 Official/Reserved Zones.

  1. A.  An official/reserved zone is a parking area reserved for specific vehicles.
  2. B.  No vehicle may park in an official/reserved zone unless authorized as indicated by the sign or markings of the zone.

16.20.290 Electric Vehicle Charging Zones.

(Added by Ordinance 191187, effective March 31, 2023.)

  1. A. Electric vehicle (EV) Charging Zones are established to prevent any vehicle that is not actively using the EV charger from parking in the space. All on-street parking spaces with EV chargers installed will be designated as an EV Charging Zone and only vehicles actively charging their EV shall be permitted.
  2. B. A permit to establish an EV Charging Zone may be approved by the Portland Bureau of Transportation provided the permit applicant possesses a franchise or privilege granted by the City of Portland, obtains the necessary permit(s), and makes the required improvements to the parking space(s).
  3. C. Parking in a space designated as an EV Charging Zone shall be restricted to EVs or plug-in hybrid vehicles that are actively charging, which is defined as being plugged into the EV charger.

16.20.401 Purpose.

  1. Parking meters are authorized by the City of Portland as a means to increase vehicle turnover in parking spaces, to encourage short-term parking in the metered area, and to improve safety in the public right-of-way.

16.20.405 Enforcement of Metered Parking Spaces.

(Amended by Ordinance 179141, effective March 23, 2005.)

  1. A.  Parking meters are in effect during all hours indicated on the meter and/or sign.
  2. B.  All vehicles must adhere to parking meter regulations while stopped or parked in an officially designated metered parking space unless obeying the direction of an authorized officer or unless authorized for specific actions by a vehicle or general parking permit.
  3. C.  Emergency vehicles may stop or park in any metered space at any time while serving an emergency.
  4. D.  It is unlawful to store nonvehicular property in a metered parking space.  Any nonvehicular property stored in a metered parking space is a nuisance and may be summarily abated.

16.20.410 Administration of Meters, City of Portland Owned and Operated Property.

(Amended by Ordinance 179141, effective March 23, 2005.)

  1. A.  Changes to or establishment of parking meter areas, including but not limited to surface parking lots, parking structures and designated parking areas, is initiated at the sole discretion of the City Traffic Engineer.
  2. B.  The City Traffic Engineer is authorized to enter into agreements with City Bureaus or other public bodies in order to operate their surface parking lots, parking structures or designated parking areas within the City of Portland.

16.20.420 Determination of Meter District Boundaries.

(Amended by Ordinances 173627, 179141 and 182389, effective January 2, 2009.)

  1. A.  Changes to or establishment of a parking meter district is initiated at the sole discretion of the City Traffic Engineer. 
  2. B.  Before expanding or establishing a new parking meter district on public-right-of-way, the City Traffic Engineer must conduct a public hearing on the proposed meter district.  All properties within 400 feet of and all City recognized neighborhood and business associations within 1000 feet of the proposed meter district shall be mailed notice of the public hearing at least 20 days prior to the hearing.
  3. C.  Meter district boundaries will be proposed in the text of a report to the City Council.  All persons registering their attendance at the public hearing shall be mailed notice of the City Council meeting at least 20 days prior to the meeting.
  4. D.  The City Traffic Engineer may consider the following factors when determining a parking meter district boundary:
    1. 1.  The amount of area presently under parking sign controls.
    2. 2.  Adjacent property owner and property tenant demand and interest in having metered parking control.
    3. 3.  Need for increased turnover of parking spaces and public right-of-way management.
    4. 4.  Mitigation of traffic and parking impact on adjacent areas.
    5. 5.  Impact on current parking meter district enforcement.
  5. E.  Current meter district boundaries shall be listed in the Bureau of Transportation’s Rules and Procedures Manual.

16.20.430 Meter Time (on City of Portland Right-of-Way).

(Amended by Ordinances 176394 and 179141, effective March 23, 2005.)

  1. A.  It is unlawful for any person to park any vehicle in any parking meter space during the hours of operation of the meter without paying the parking meter fee, or to permit any vehicle in their control or custody to remain in any parking meter space longer than the time designated time limit.
  2. B.  At short-term meters, it is unlawful to extend the parking time beyond the designated limit for parking in the metered space. 
  3. C.  Upon expiration of the designated time limit, as indicated by the parking meter, a citation may be issued if a vehicle remains parked or stopped on the same block face unless it has moved 500 or more lineal feet as measured along the curb or edge line.
  4. D.  Upon leaving a metered space a vehicle may not return to a parking meter in the same block face for a 3-hour period, unless it is a metered space in the same block face that is more than 500 lineal feet, as measured along the curb or curb line, from the previously used metered space.
  5. E.  Upon expiration of the designated time limit indicated by the parking meter, a citation may be issued if a vehicle remains parked or stopped on the same block face unless:
    1. 1.  The vehicle has moved 500 or more lineal feet, measured along the curb or edge line;
    2. 2.  The vehicle has moved to an unregulated parking area in the same block face; or
    3. 3.  The vehicle has vacated the block face for a period of 3 hours.
  6. F.  A vehicle may not be parked in any space with a broken or “out of order” meter for a period of time longer than the time limit indicated on the meter.  Payment or a valid receipt is required at all spaces regardless of whether the closest device is functioning. 

16.20.431 City of Portland Owned or Operated Property.

(Added by Ordinances 179141 and 182389, effective January 2, 2009.)

  1. A.  It is unlawful for any person to park any vehicle in any parking space during the hours of operation without paying the parking meter fee, or displaying a valid receipt, or to permit any vehicle in their control or custody to remain parked without payment of meter fees or displaying a valid receipt.
  2. B.  It is unlawful for any person to park any vehicle with an invalid or unrenewed permit or failure to display the valid permit according to the City of Portland, Bureau of Transportation Administrative Rules.
  3. C.  Improper use of a permit by a permit holder will result in cancellation of that permit.
  4. D.  After a citation for violation has been issued and the cited vehicle remains parked or stopped, when cited for the previous violation, a separate violation occurs upon the expiration of each successive maximum period of parking time as designated by official signs, markings, or meters.  A separate citation may be issued for each successive violation.

16.20.440 Meter Fees.

(Amended by Ordinances 176394 and 186575, effective July 1, 2014.)  

  1. A sign or legend which indicates the interval of time for which parking is permitted and the fee payable for the time interval must be posted on all meters.  The parking meter fee must be paid with U.S. coins, payment card or any other authorized payment method by the person within the vehicle, except:
  2. A.  During all the days and the hours that a meter fee is not required as indicated on the meter.
  3. B.  A vehicle with a commercial or delivery permit and a vehicle allowed to use truck loading zones by right may use any metered parking space without meter fee on any day between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. for a maximum of 30 minutes while engaged in loading/ unloading merchandise; or
  4. C.  Any government vehicle, so identified by public registration plates, may park without meter fee for the maximum time limit allowable at any metered parking space.
  5. D.  A vehicle with a current permit authorizing parking at a meter without payment of the meter fee, as defined in Sections 16.20.500 and 16.20.600.
  6. E.  A vehicle, for the sole purpose of loading/unloading passengers, for a period not to exceed 30 seconds.

16.20.445 Pay Stations.

(Added by Ordinance 176394, effective April 17, 2002.)

  1. A.  It is unlawful to park or permit to be parked any vehicle in a space metered by a pay station without properly displaying proof of payment.
  2. B.  Proper display of proof of payment means affixing the receipt to the interior of the curbside window of the vehicle in such a manner that the expiration time and date are readily visible from the exterior.  For motorcycles, receipts shall be affixed where clearly visible.

16.20.450 Obstruction of Meters.

  1. No vehicle or other property may obstruct access to a parking meter in a manner which prevents deposit of coins in the meter, visibility of the meter instructions or time limit, or visibility of any signs mounted on the meter pipe. A vehicle or other property in violation of this section is hereby declared to be a nuisance and is subject to summary abatement.

16.20.460 Parking Space Reservation.

(Amended by Ordinances 176394, 179141 and 189651, effective September 6, 2019.)

  1. A.  A parking space may be reserved by obtaining a Temporary Street Use Permit and paying the fees per Section 17.24.020.
  2. B.  In metered areas, Parking Enforcement will reserve on-street parking spaces.  A vehicle parked prior to placement of a space reservation device will not be considered parked in violation until it is parked longer than the time limit indicated on the meter.
  3. C.  In non-metered areas, the permittee shall be responsible for placing the parking reservation devices per directions detailed in the parking reservation procedure.
  4. D.  Except for permits issued under authority of Subsections 17.24.017 C. and D., parking spaces may not be reserved to facilitate vending or promotional activities in the right-of-way.

16.20.470 Injury to or Theft From Meters; Unauthorized Possession of Implements, Invalid Receipt.

(Added by Ordinance 170923; amended by Ordinance 176394 and 179141, effective March 23, 2005.)

  1. A. It is unlawful for any person to deface, injure, tamper with, willfully break, destroy, or impair the usefulness of any parking meter installed in public streets, public places, or elsewhere in the City, or to open or remove the same without lawful authority.
  2. B. It is unlawful for any person without lawful authority to remove any coin box or the money content of such coin box or the contents of any parking meter or part thereof.
  3. C. It is unlawful for any person to knowingly manufacture, duplicate, possess, or use any tool, key, implement or device designed to force, break, unlock, or otherwise gain entry to any parking meter maintained by the City unless authorized to do so by the City Traffic Engineer.
  4. D. Injury to or theft from each meter as described in Subsection A and possession of each item described in Subsections B and C is a separate offense. For each such offense, in addition to the penalties otherwise provided in this Code, a court may order restitution to the City of the damages incurred for repair or re-keying parking meters as a result of injury to the meters or the use or possession of the items described in Subsection C.
  5. E. It is unlawful for any person to duplicate, copy, use or otherwise falsify a parking payment receipt.
  6. F. It is unlawful for any person to damage, deface, or remove a space reservation device.

16.20.501 Purpose.

(Amended by Ordinance 189651, effective September 6, 2019.)  

  1. General parking permits may be issued to reserve public right-of-way areas for use by designated parties.  The Director of the Bureau of Transportation may issue permits, and parking reservation devices to temporarily reserve public right-of-way areas.  The Director of the Bureau of Transportation may approve general parking permits that apply in designated parking zones, at parking meters, or elsewhere depending on the specifications of the permit.  This section will describe each general parking permit and the regulations for enforcement of the permit.

16.20.503 Current Approval Required Before Use.

(Amended by Ordinance 189651, effective September 6, 2019.)

  1. A.  All general parking permits, must have current approval of the Director of the Bureau of Transportation at the time the permit is used by the permittee.
  2. B.  The Director of the Bureau of Transportation may deny a general parking permit application based on a demonstrated history of improper use by the applicant during the previous 12 months.
  3. C.  No permit will be issued to any applicant who has an outstanding balance due for prior violation(s) of or outstanding fees for permits issued by the Director of the Bureau of Transportation.
  4. D.  The Director of the Bureau of Transportation may require insurance to indemnify the City from liability before issuing a general parking permit.
  5. E.  A decision of the Director of the Bureau of Transportation regarding the issuance of a general parking permit may be appealed to the Code Hearings Officer according to Title 22 of the Portland City Code.

16.20.510 Construction Area Permit.

(Amended by Ordinance 189651, effective September 6, 2019.)

  1. A.  A Temporary Street Use construction area permit will only be issued to a person with an official street use permit, a street opening permit, a temporary street closure permit, or who is performing minor modifications or clean-up activities.
  2. B.  A construction area permit allows placement of building materials, equipment, or commercial vehicles necessary for the performance of the work in the public right-of-way.  A parking reservation device may only be used to establish a construction area when the parking of the vehicle is essential to the performance of the construction work.  Permitted construction area does not authorize the use of the right of way as employee parking.  A vehicle not allowed by right to park in truck loading zone and vehicles being used to transport small tools are not essential in this regard and are not allowed in any construction area unless specifically authorized by the permit.
  3. C.  No vehicle may park in a construction area unless authorized by the construction area permit.  Identification cards may be required for authorization of the vehicle.

16.20.520 Maintenance Hood Permit.

  1. A maintenance hood permit allows a person to secure parking meter hoods on parking meters near areas where work is being performed. Permit users must obey administrative regulations of the permit and regulations regarding parking meter hood use (16.20.460).

16.20.530 Temporary Truck Loading Zone Permit.

(Amended by Ordinance 189651, effective September 6, 2019.)

  1. A.  A temporary truck loading zone permit may be issued to any person proving need for the permit.  The temporary truck loading zone must be designated by issued parking reservation devices or as otherwise designated by the administrative instructions of the permit.  The parking reservation devices designating the area may only be used where allowed by the permit. 
  2. B.  No vehicle may park in a temporary truck loading area unless authorized by the temporary truck loading zone permit.

16.20.540 Angle Loading Permit.

  1. An angle loading permit may be granted by the City Traffic Engineer to facilitate the loading/unloading of vehicles, subject to the following provisions:
  2. A.  When angle parked, the permittee must be actively engaged in loading/ unloading the vehicle.
  3. B.  The permit will be authorized when necessary because of the weight or size of the merchandise being loaded/unloaded and the physical constraints of the loading area.
  4. C.  Angle loading/unloading will be subject to the time limit established by the City Traffic Engineer for each individual permit.
  5. D.  In the case of a tractor and trailer combination, the tractor may be required to be removed and parked separately.
  6. E.  The City Traffic Engineer may require a traffic control plan to be implemented as a condition of the permit.
  7. F.  The City Traffic Engineer may require insurance to indemnify the City for liability related to permit use.

16.20.550 Travel Lane Parking Permit.

(Amended by Ordinance 165594, effective July 8, 1992.)

  1. A.  A street closure permit must be obtained from the City Engineer per Title 17.44.020 for the following purposes:
    1. 1.  Facilitating construction, demolition or installation of facilities on public or private property.
    2. 2.  Restricting vehicular use of an unimproved street for the protection of the public or to eliminate a neighborhood nuisance.
    3. 3.  Providing for special events, such as block parties or neighborhood fairs.
  2. B.  The City Traffic Engineer may issue a travel lane closure permit for any other purpose, and, as a condition of the permit, require:
    1. 1.  A traffic control plan to be implemented; and
    2. 2.  Insurance to indemnify the City for liability related to permit use. 

16.20.560 Special Use Permit.

(Amended by Ordinances 173627 and 182389, effective January 2, 2009.)

  1. A.  Special use permits will be limited to uses where the firm or individual requires reserved parking lane space to perform a specific task.  Permitted uses may include: crane placement or operation, bus loading, mobile medical facilities, funeral vehicles, wedding vehicles, special events, security for visiting dignitaries, and other special restrictions deemed necessary by the Police Bureau or Bureau of Transportation.  Special use permits will not be issued to allow the display or sale of merchandise.
  2. B.  No vehicle may park in a special use permit area unless authorized by the special use permit.

16.20.595 Improper Use.

(Amended by Ordinances 170923 and 179141, effective March 23, 2005.)

  1. A. It is a violation to improperly use a permit, meter hood, sign, or curb marking, and will be cause for the revocation of the permit, meter hood, sign, or curb marking. A citation or a civil penalty will be assessed of up to $1,000 by the City Traffic Engineer. Upon notice of revocation, the permit and/or meter hood(s) must immediately be returned to the City Traffic Engineer.
  2. B. The permit applicant is fully responsible for any violation of the conditions of the permit.
  3. C. All fees paid will be forfeited in the event of revocation. All fines are due within 30 days after the fine is levied. All civil penalties assessed by the City Traffic Engineer are due within 30 days unless an appeal is made.
  4. D. Decisions of the City Traffic Engineer regarding the revocation of a general parking permit may be appealed to the Code Hearings Officer according to the provisions of Title 22 of the Portland City Code.

16.20.601 Purpose.

  1. A vehicle permit may be issued to allow a vehicle to legally park in violation of specific parking regulations. A vehicle permit may apply in a designated parking zone, parking meter, or elsewhere depending on the specifications of the permit.

16.20.603 Current Approval Required Before Use.

  1. A.  All vehicle permits, including meter hoods, must have current approval of the City Traffic Engineer at the time the permit is used by the permittee.
  2. B.  The City Traffic Engineer may deny a vehicle permit application based on a demonstrated history of permit abuse by the applicant during the previous 12-month period.
  3. C.  Unless otherwise specified, all vehicle permits issued by authority of this Section will expire January 1, following the calendar year in which the permit was issued.
  4. D.  A duplicate permit may be issued by the City Traffic Engineer upon receipt of a replacement application and fee from the permittee.
  5. E.  No permit will be issued to any applicant who has an outstanding balance due for prior violation(s) of permits issued by the City Traffic Engineer.
  6. F.  Decisions of the City Traffic Engineer regarding the issuance of vehicle permits may be appealed to the Code Hearings Officer according to the provisions of Title 22 of the Portland City Code.

16.20.610 Media Permit.

(Amended by Ordinance 176394, effective April 17, 2002.) 

  1. A media permit allows parking in any area designated by the permit. This permit may be issued to a radio or television station and to a newspaper. The permit may contain restrictions as deemed necessary by the City Traffic Engineer.

16.20.620 Commercial Permit.

  1. A commercial permit allows parking in any area designated by the permit. The permit may contain restrictions as deemed necessary by the City Traffic Engineer.

16.20.621 Disabled Resident Permit.

(Added by Ordinance 186575, effective July 1, 2014.)  

  1. A Disabled Resident Permit allows parking in any area designated by the permit.  The permit may contain restrictions as deemed necessary by the City Traffic Engineer.

16.20.622 Disabled Employee Permit.

(Added by Ordinance 186575, effective July 1, 2014.)  

  1. A Disabled Employee Permit allows parking in any area designated by the permit.  The permit may contain restrictions as deemed necessary by the City Traffic Engineer.

16.20.630 Delivery Permit.

  1. A delivery permit allows parking in any area designated by the permit. This permit may contain restrictions deemed necessary by the City Traffic Engineer.

16.20.640 Disabled Person Placard – Metered Districts.

(Amended by Ordinances 166575, 170923, 179141, 181507, 181914, 182345, 182935, 184628, 185036, 185785, 186096, 186394 and 186575, effective July 1, 2014.) 

  1. A.  A vehicle with an official State-issued disabled person registration plate, placard, permit or decal, must adhere to all applicable meter regulations, including payment, and may park:
    1. 1.  In any space designated for a vehicle with a disabled person parking placard with a designated time limit of 1 hour, 90 minutes, or 2 hours, a person must pay for the time parked if under the maximum meter time limit, or pay up to the maximum meter time limit allowed and the vehicle may remain parked in that space for up to 3 hours;
    2. 2.   In any metered space with a designated time limit of 1 hour, 90 minutes, or 2 hours, a person must pay for the time parked if under the maximum meter limit, or pay up to the maximum meter time limit allowed and the vehicle may remain parked in that space for up to 3 hours;
    3. 3.  In any metered space with a designated time limit less than 1 hour, a person must pay for the time parked if under the meter time limit, or pay up to the maximum meter time limit allowed and the vehicle may remain parked in that space for up to the maximum meter time limit; or 
    4. 4.  In any metered space with a designated time limit of 3 hours or longer a person must pay for the time parked if under the maximum meter time limit, or pay up to the maximum meter time limit allowed, and the vehicle may remain parked in that space for up to the maximum meter time limit.
  2. B.  Use of invalid disabled person parking permit; penalty.
    1. 1.  A person commits the offense of use of an invalid disabled person parking permit if the person uses a permit that is not a valid permit from another jurisdiction, and that:
      1. a.  Has been previously reported as lost or stolen;
      2. b.  Has been altered;
      3. c.  Was issued to a person who is deceased at the time of the   citation;
      4. d.  Has not been issued under ORS 811.602;
      5. e.  Is a photocopy or other reproduction of a permit, regardless of the permit status; or
      6. f.  Is mutilated or illegible.
  3. C.  Unlawful use of disabled person parking permit; penalty.
    1. 1.  A person commits the offense of unlawful use of a disabled person parking permit if the person:
      1. a.  Is not a person with a disability and is not transporting the holder of a disabled person parking permit to or from the parking location; and
      2. b.  Uses a disabled person parking permit described under ORS 811.602 OR 811.606 to exercise any privileges granted under ORS 811.635.
  4. D.  Misuse of program placard; penalty.
    1. 1.  A person commits the offense of misuse of a program placard if   the person:
      1. a.  Is the driver of a vehicle that is being used as part of a program for the transportation of persons with disabilities; and
      2. b.  Uses a program placard described under ORS 811.607 for any purpose other than exercising privileges granted under ORS 811.637.

16.20.641 Disabled Person Placard – Non-Metered Regulated Parking Zone.

(Added by Ordinance 186575, effective July 1, 2014.)

  1. A.  A vehicle with an official State-issued disabled person registration plate, placard, permit or decal, must adhere to all applicable non-meter regulated parking zone regulations, and may park:
    1. 1.  In any non-metered regulated parking zone designated for a vehicle with a disabled person parking placard for any amount of time (subject to on-street storage regulations);
    2. 2.  In any non-metered regulated parking zone with a designated time limit of 30 minutes or more for any amount of time; or
    3. 3.  In any non-metered regulated parking zone with a designated time limit of less than 30 minutes for a period of time not to exceed the designated time limit.
  2. B.  Use of invalid disabled person parking permit; penalty. 
    1. 1.  A person commits the offense of use of an invalid disabled person parking permit if the person uses a permit that is not a valid permit from another jurisdiction, and that:
    2. a.  Has been previously reported as lost or stolen;
    3. b.  Has been altered;
    4. c.  Was issued to a person who is deceased at the time of the citation;
    5. d.  Has not been issued under ORS 811.602;
    6. e.  Is a photocopy or other reproduction of a permit, regardless of the permit status; or
    7. f.  Is mutilated or illegible.
  3. C.  Unlawful use of disabled person parking permit; penalty.
    1. 1.  A person commits the offense of unlawful use of a disabled person parking permit if the person:
      1. a.  Is not a person with a disability and is not transporting the holder of a disabled parking permit to or from the parking location; and
      2. b.  Uses a disabled parking permit described under ORS 811.602 or 811.606 to exercise any privileges granted under ORS 811.635,
  4. D.  Misuse of program placard; penalty. 
    1. 1.  A person commits the offense of misuse of a program placard if the person:
      1. a.  Is the driver of a vehicle that is being used as part of a program for the transportation of persons with disabilities; and
      2. b.  Uses a program placard described under ORS 811.607 for any purpose other than exercising privileges granted under ORS 811.637.

16.20.645 Wheelchair User Disabled Person Parking Placard.

(Added by Ordinance 181507; amended by Ordinance 186575, effective July 1, 2014.)

  1. A.  A vehicle with an official State-issued “Wheelchair User” plate, placard, permit or decal, may park:
    1. 1.  In any space designated for a vehicle with a “Wheelchair User” placard or decal for any amount of time (subject to on-street storage regulations);
    2. 2.  In any metered or non-metered space with a designated time limit of 30 minutes or more for any amount of time without fee; or
    3. 3.  In any metered or non-metered space with a designated time limit of less than 30 minutes for a period of time not to exceed the designated time limit with fee, if applicable.
    4. 4.  In an Area Parking Permit Program Zone for any amount of time and without fee.
  2. B.  A vehicle with an official State-issued “Wheelchair User” plate, placard, permit or decal, may not;
    1. 1.  Park in any space reserved for special types of vehicles or activities including, but not limited to, truck loading zones, carpool zones, no parking zones, and reserved zones.
  3. C.  Use of invalid disabled person parking permit; penalty.
    1. 1.  A person commits the offense of use of an invalid disabled person parking permit if the person uses a permit that is not a valid permit from another jurisdiction, and that:
      1. a.  Has been previously reported as lost or stolen;
      2. b.  Has been altered;
      3. c.  Was issued to a person who is deceased at the time of the citation;
      4. d.  Has not been issued under ORS 811.602;
      5. e.  Is a photocopy or other reproduction of a permit, regardless of the permit status; or
      6. f.  Is mutilated or illegible.
  4. D.  Unlawful use of disabled person parking permit; penalty.
    1. 1.  A person commits the offense of unlawful use of a disabled person parking permit if the person:
      1. a.  Is not a person with a disability and is not transporting the holder of a disabled parking permit to or from the parking location; and
      2. b.  Uses a disabled parking permit described under ORS 811.602 or 811.606 to exercise any privileges granted under ORS 811.635,
  5. E.  Misuse of program placard; penalty. 
    1. 1.  A person commits the offense of misuse of a program placard if the person:
      1. a.  Is the driver of a vehicle that is being used as part of a program for the transportation of persons with disabilities; and
      2. b.  Uses a program placard described under ORS 811.607 for any purpose other than exercising privileges granted under ORS 811.637.

16.20.650 Government Permit.

  1. A government permit allows a vehicle displaying the permit to park in any area designated by the permit. The permit may contain restrictions as deemed necessary by the City Traffic Engineer.

16.20.660 Nonprofit Permit.

  1. A nonprofit vehicle permit allows a vehicle displaying the permit to park in any area designated by the permit. This permit may be issued to a charitable organization when permit parking activities directly serve a charitable function. The permit may contain restrictions as deemed necessary by the City Traffic Engineer.

16.20.680 Other Permit.

  1. An other permit allows parking in any area designated on the permit. The permit may contain restrictions as deemed necessary by the City Traffic Engineer.

16.20.695 Improper Use.

  1. A.  The improper use of a permit, meter hood, or sign will be cause for the revocation of the permit, meter hood, or sign and/or for a fine to be levied by the City Traffic Engineer.  Upon notice of revocation, the permit and/or meter hood(s) must immediately be returned to the City Traffic Engineer.
  2. B.  The vehicle permit applicant is fully responsible for any violation of the conditions of the permit.
  3. C.  All fees paid will be forfeited in the event of revocation.  All fines will be due within 30 days after the fine is levied.
  4. D.  Decisions of the City Traffic Engineer regarding the revocation of a vehicle permit may be appealed to the Code Hearings Officer according to the provisions of Title 22 of the Portland City Code.

16.20.801 Purpose.

  1. A.  The area parking permit program is intended to increase access to residents and businesses, reduce traffic congestion, increase traffic/pedestrian safety, reduce air pollution, reduce noise pollution, prevent blighted areas, and promote the use of mass transit, car pooling, and other alternative modes of transportation.
  2. B.  The area parking permit program will reduce commuter traffic that originates from outside the permit area and has no apparent connection or business within the permit area.  A guest who originates from outside the permit area but is visiting a resident or conducting business within the permit area may be provided a guest permit by the area permittee.
  3. C.  Each area that implements the parking permit program will have a unique set of parking needs.  These needs will be based in part on the extent of the parking congestion; the cause(s) of the congestion; the proximity of the neighborhood to the parking generator(s); the mix of residential/nonresidential use; the number of guests visiting the area; the frequency of guests visiting the area; the availability of off‑street parking; the types of parking problems in surrounding areas; the availability of alternative modes of transportation; the possibility of alternative parking solutions; and the physical layout and boundaries of the area.
  4. D.  Each area must meet the eligibility criteria (16.20.830) and follow the prescribed process (16.20.840) in order to form a permit program.
  5. E.  Area residents and businesses will be allowed to purchase a permit granting on‑street parking privileges in the area where they reside or have their places of business.  A permit will allow a vehicle under the legal control of a resident, worker, or visitor, with a properly displayed permit decal or card, to exceed the area permit parking program time limits that are posted within a designated area.

16.20.810 Definitions.

(Amended by Ordinances 165594, 176394 and 189078, effective July 18, 2018.)

  1. A.  “Address” is the street number and applicable apartment number for each dwelling unit, business, or other use.  Each apartment or commercial unit is regarded as a unique address.
  2. B.  “Annual permit fee” is the annual fee for each business, guest, or resident permit decal.  If a permit is issued on or after the first day of the seventh month in the permit year, the fee will be one half of the yearly permit fee.  Replacement permits will be one half of the current permit fee.
  3. C.  “Area business” is any professional establishment or nonresident property owner whose business property is located within a permit area.
  4. D.  “Area Parking Committee” is the group of not less than two people and not more than five people (excluding alternates) appointed by the neighborhood association and business district association which implements an Area Permit Parking Program or, when a proposed permit program area is not within the boundaries of a listed business district association, by the neighborhood association whose residents represent the greatest number of addresses within a permit area.  Area Parking Committees will assist the City Traffic Engineer in establishment of the Area Permit Parking Program, development of a Supplemental Plan Description, and ongoing review of the program.
  5. E.  “Area resident” is any person who resides within the permit area.
  6. F.  “Area vehicle” is one that originates from inside the permit area and/or has an apparent connection or business within the permit area.
  7. G.  “Business District Association” is any group listed by the Office of Community & Civic Life to represent businesses of a geographic area within the City.
  8. H.  “Business permit decal” is the decal issued by the City Traffic Engineer for assignment to vehicles under the legal control of workers, customers, clients, or others while conducting business in the area.
  9. I.  “Complimentary Hours Permit” is the permit(s) granted to each area program permit holder for guest parking for special occasions.
  10. J.  “Effective hours” are the days and hours during which the area permit program applies as defined by each individual Supplemental Plan.
  11. K.  “Guest permit decal” is the decal issued by the City Traffic Engineer to a permittee to identify any vehicle(s) under the legal control of guests during periods when guests are actually visiting at the permittee’s address.
  12. L.  “Improper use” has occurred when a permit holder violates the provisions described on the permit application.  Improper use will lead to penalties as described in 16.20.860.
  13. M.  “Neighborhood association” is any group recognized by the Office of Community & Civic Life to represent residents of a geographic area within the City.
  14. N.  “Non‑permitted vehicle” is any vehicle which does not display a current permit decal for the Area Permit Parking Program Area in which it is parked.
  15. O.  “Permit area” is any area as designated by an initiating petition or as modified in the boundary description.
  16. P.  “Permit decal” (generally) means any resident, business, and guest decal issued by the City Traffic Engineer to residents and businesses in permit areas.  Permit decals must be clearly identified as belonging to a specific permit area, for use during a specified permit year, and proper for only one of the following permits: resident, business, or guest.  These decals must be displayed in the manner described in the administrative rules for Area Parking Permit decals.  Permit decals expire on the last day of the permit year in which they are issued. 
  17. Q.  “Permit program” is any Area Permit Parking Program created and administered under this Code Chapter 16.20.800.
  18. R.  “Permit year” is the 12‑month period set for the administration of an Area Permit Parking Program by consent of the City Traffic Engineer and the Area Parking Committee.
  19. S.  “Permitted vehicle” is any vehicle which properly displays the correct permit decal, or temporary permit issued by the City Traffic Engineer for use on such vehicle.
  20. T.  “Program administrator” is designated by the City Traffic Engineer to administer an Area Permit Parking Program.  Program administrator responsibilities include routine program administration, consulting with the Area Parking Committee to amend or interpret the Supplemental Plan Description, and giving approval or denial to proposed permit program provisions.
  21. U.  “Resident permit decal” is a decal issued by the City Traffic Engineer to a resident to identify the vehicle(s) under the resident’s legal control as permitted vehicle(s).
  22. V.  “Supplemental plan description” is the document established by the Area Parking Committee and the program administrator.  It details the Area Parking Permit Program policies and procedures in accordance with Code Chapter 16.20.800.
  23. W.  “Temporary permit” is used in lieu of an annual permit decal on vehicles.  The purpose of a temporary permit is for display in a vehicle under the legal control of an applicant without sufficient proof to obtain a permanent permit, for the usage of complimentary hours, or for construction projects.  Applicants will be charged a fee for each vehicle they register with the exception of complimentary permit hours.  The Area Parking Committees may establish any additional terms and conditions for use of temporary permit cards.
  24. X.  “Unauthorized permit” is the display of any permit decal not assigned to that vehicle as defined in the supplemental plan description.
  25. Y.  “Vehicle of record” is the vehicle which a permit holder has registered for a permit decal with the Program Administrator.

16.20.830 Area Eligibility.

  1. All of the following eligibility criteria must be met before the area will be considered for the area parking permit program:
  2. A.  There must exist at some time during the day an occupancy rate of 75 percent or more of the existing on‑street parking spaces.  Twenty-five percent (25%) of the vehicles occupying the on-street spaces must be other than area vehicles.  Vehicles that originate from outside the proposed permit program area but are visiting a resident or conducting business in the proposed permit program area will not be considered a commuter vehicle.  This occupancy rate must occur at least 4 days per week and the neighborhood association, the business district association, and the City Traffic Engineer must agree that this occupancy will occur for a minimum of 9 months per year.
  3. B.  The requesting area must consist of a minimum of 40 block faces or 8,000 lineal feet of curb space.
  4. C.  An area that feels it is adversely affected by parking and is requesting permit parking must work through its neighborhood association or business district association as defined in City Code Section 3.96.020 and 3.96.030.  If the area is not formally organized, it should directly contact the Office of the Neighborhood Associations for assistance.  The Office of the Neighborhood Associations must review the request and discuss the eligibility of that area to form a neighborhood association or business district association in conformance with the criteria established.
  5. D.  The City Traffic Engineer must agree that the area permit parking program would promote benefits within the designated area. 
    1. 1.  Benefits may include, but are not limited to: increased access to area residents and businesses, reduced traffic congestion, increased traffic/pedestrian safety, reduced air/noise pollution, prevention of blighted areas, increased neighborhood unity, and promoting the use of alternative modes of transportation.
    2. 2.  Adverse effects that may prevent implementation include, but are not limited to: transferring the problem to a different area, inability to effectively enforce program restrictions, lack of alternative modes of transportation, availability of simpler, cheaper solutions, and the legal existence of more than one firm with 50 or more employees that could not operate under the permit system constraints.

16.20.840 Process.

(Amended by Ordinance 170923, effective March 21, 1997.)  

  1. The following process must be followed to establish area permit parking programs:
  2. A.  An area may apply to participate in a permit program through a community-initiated petition with signatures representing 50 percent of the affected addresses (one signature per address) to be submitted to the neighborhood association and the business district association.  This petition shall include:
    1. 1.  The parking problem;
    2. 2.  The probable cause of the problem;
    3. 3.  The proposed boundaries of the congested area;
    4. 4.  The number of individual addresses in the congested area; and
    5. 5.  The permit fees of the program.
  3. B.  The neighborhood association and business district association shall discuss the request with the City Traffic Engineer to determine if there are any conditions (as specified in 16.20.830 D above) that would prevent the implementation of a area permit parking program.  If the City Traffic Engineer recommends that the application process continue, the neighborhood association and the business district association must work with the area to determine its eligibility and appoint an area parking committee.
  4. C.  Upon receipt of the petition, the City Traffic Engineer must initiate a preliminary investigation to verify that the area meets the criteria.
  5. D.  Based on the findings of the investigations, the City Traffic Engineer will determine if a proposed area is eligible for an area parking permit program.
  6. E.  If an area is approved as eligible, the City Traffic Engineer may propose a program and mail this program and notice of a public meeting to all addresses in the proposal area.  After the public meeting, the proposal will be refined and a ballot prepared.  The City Traffic Engineer may expand or contract (if larger than the minimum) the proposed area to conform to major physical boundaries such as arterial roadways, rivers, hills, ridges, or political boundaries such as neighborhood boundaries or to protect projected impact areas as determined by the professional engineering or planning staff.
  7. F.  A ballot will be mailed to all addresses within the proposed area within 30 days after the last public meeting.  The legal occupant of an address is eligible to vote.  This ballot must be received by the City Traffic Engineer on or before the date specified in the mailing.  A minimum of 50 percent of the ballots must be received, of which 60 percent must be “yes” votes, to approve the program.
  8. G.  If the vote in Paragraph F. is negative, a minimum of 12 months must elapse before any new proposal can be initiated.
  9. H.  If the vote in Paragraph F. of this Section is positive, the City Traffic Engineer will submit to the City Council an ordinance authorizing the permit system and required funding.  If approved by Council, the City Traffic Engineer will notify all addresses of the approval and enclose application materials.  Permit fees from at least 50 percent of the addresses must be collected prior to the installation of signs.
  10. I.  The program will renew annually, unless:
    1. 1.  The City Traffic Engineer receives a petition, representing 50 percent of the addresses within the designated permit program area, requesting termination of the program.  After receipt of a valid petition, the City Traffic Engineer will mail a ballot to the program area according to subsection F.  The vote must be completed before the program will be terminated; or
    2. 2.  The designated area does not meet the rules or procedures established by the City Traffic Engineer.
  11. J.  Changes to boundaries of existing permit areas desired by area residents must be made according to the following procedure:
    1. 1.  The City Traffic Engineer must determine that the resulting permit area will meet the minimum standards for permit areas established in 16.20.830.
    2. 2.  The changes must be approved by the City Traffic Engineer and by a majority of the Area Parking Committee.
    3. 3.  The City Traffic Engineer will mail a ballot to the addresses of the area to be annexed into or deleted from the permit area.  The completed ballot must be received by the City Traffic Engineer on or before the date specified in the mailing.  A minimum of 50 percent of the ballots must be received, of which 60 percent must be “yes” votes, to approve the changes.
    4. 4.  If the vote in is negative, a minimum of 12 months must elapse before any new proposal can be initiated.

16.20.850 Program Administration.

(Amended by Ordinances 177006 and 183829, effective July 1, 2010.)

  1. A.  For each Area Permit Parking Program, the City Traffic Engineer will guide the area in establishment, evaluation, revision, or termination of the Area Permit Parking Program by:
    1. 1.  Meeting with the Area Parking Committee;
    2. 2.  Planning and coordinating registration and enforcement; and
    3. 3.  Completing any other such duties described in the Supplemental Plan Description.
  2. B.  Annual Review of Program Fees: Services charges and fees are reviewed annually and updated per the City’s financial policy, and are effective with the adoption of the annual budget.
  3. Notification of Fee Changes and Permit Renewal: A current listing of service charges and fees will be made available to the public.
  4. C.  It is the obligation of area residents and businesses to apply for permit decals in a timely manner and in accordance with Code Chapter 16.20 and the appropriate Supplemental Plan Description.  Applicants must present authorized documentation to the City Traffic Engineer as follows:
    1. 1.  An area resident must present proof of current occupancy and current proof of vehicle control.  A person using a vehicle owned by another must present a notarized statement from the owner stating that the vehicle has been assigned to the applicant for their personal use.
    2. 2.  An area business must present proof of current occupancy and a payroll record or a list of employees and the hours each employee works per week.
  5. D.  An area business is eligible to purchase business permit decals for workers in accordance with the supplemental plan description.  The number of business permit decals which may be issued to an area business must be defined in each permit area’s supplemental plan description.
  6. E.  One guest permit decal may be issued to each address for an area permit decal.  A guest permit decal may not be converted to a business permit decal.  Additional guest permit decals may be issued to an address according to the rules of each Supplemental Plan Description.
  7. F.  It is the obligation of the permit holder to notify the City Traffic Engineer of loss or theft of a permit decal within 3 business days.  The permit holder may purchase a replacement for one half of the current fee, unless the City Traffic Engineer has disallowed purchase by the purchase holder under the penalty provision of 16.20.860.

16.20.860 Violation and Enforcement.

(Amended by Ordinances 165594 and 179141, effective March 23, 2005.)

  1. A.  A permitted vehicle which is parked in accordance with posted Area Permit Parking Program signing and in accordance with parking regulations generally (Chapter 16.20) is permitted to be parked in excess of the visitor parking time limit.  An area parking permit does not allow parking in restricted parking zones (16.20.200).
  2. B.  Display of an area parking permit does not convey any privileges other than that of exceeding the posted permit parking visitor time limit.  It does not authorize parking in any other restricted zone.  Permitted vehicles are subject to the provisions of 16.20.170.  (Storing Property on street is prohibited.)
  3. C.  During permit designated hours, it is unlawful for a nonpermitted vehicle to:
    1. 1.  Exceed the maximum visitor time limit allowed within the signed permit area;
    2. 2.  Return to the signed permit area for a period of 12 hours after parking for any time period.
  4. D.  The permit holder is responsible for all improper use (16.20.810 L.) of any assigned permit decal(s), unless previously reported as lost or stolen.  If investigation verifies improper use, the permit holder will be penalized as described below.
    1. 1.  A fine will be assessed for each permit decal in violation.  This fine shall be payable and due within 30 days following the violation.
    2. 2.  No additional permits will be issued to the permit holder until all fines have been paid.
  5. E.  It is unlawful for a vehicle to display an unauthorized permit.  A vehicle displaying an unauthorized permit may be cited, or a fine assessed for each violation.  The fine shall be payable and due within 30 days of the violation.
  6. F.  Improper use of a decal by a permit holder will result in cancellation of that permit decal for a period of 12 months.  Further improper use of a permit decal by that permit holder within a 24-month period will additionally render the permit holder disqualified from purchasing any Area Parking Program Permit for two subsequent permit years.
  7. G.  Decisions of the City Traffic Engineer regarding the revocation or refusal to issue a permit may be appealed to the Code Hearings Office according to the provisions of Title 22 of the Portland City Code.
  8. H.  It is unlawful for a vehicle to improperly display any authorized permit, as outlined in the City of Portland, Transportation Administrative Rule.

16.20.910 Rules of Conduct.

(Added by Ordinance 185351, effective June 22, 2012.)  

  1. The Bureau of Transportation Business Services Division Manager shall be authorized to develop and enforce Rules of Conduct for City Parking Garages and require all persons to obey the Rules of Conduct.  City Parking Garages include any publicly or privately owned real property, and the buildings, structures and facilities thereon, placed under the jurisdiction of the City for parking garage purposes, and includes all land granted to the City for such purposes.  Any person who fails to comply with the Rules of Conduct for City Parking Garages or the reasonable direction of the Person in Charge, may be excluded as provided in this Section.
  2. A.  Person in Charge is defined in ORS 164.205(5) and includes, but is not limited to, any of the following while acting in the scope of employment, agency or duty:
    1. 1.  Any peace officer as defined by Oregon law and any reserve officer of the Portland Police Bureau;
    2. 2.  Any person providing security services in City Parking Garage pursuant to any contract with the City, or with any person, firm or corporation managing City parking garages or City leased properties on the City's behalf; and/or,
    3. 3.  Any person specifically designated in writing as the Person in Charge by the Commissioner in Charge of the Bureau of Transportation or by the Transportation Business Services Division Manager.
  3. B.  City Parking Garage Exclusions.  Any Person in Charge may exclude any person who violates any Rule of Conduct while in or upon any City Parking Garage, from all City Parking Garages for a period of 180 days.
    1. 1.  The notice of exclusion shall be in writing, given to the person excluded and signed by the Person in Charge.  It shall specify the dates and places of exclusion.  It shall contain a warning of consequences for failure to comply with the notice of exclusion and information concerning the right to appeal the exclusion.
    2. 2.  A person receiving a notice of exclusion may appeal, in writing, to the Code Hearings Officer in accordance with the provisions of Title 22 of the Code to have the notice of exclusion rescinded. Notwithstanding the provisions of Title 22, the appeal to the Code Hearings Officer shall be filed within 5 days of issuance of the notice of exclusion, unless extended by the Code Hearings Officer for good cause shown.  The sworn statement of the Person in Charge who issued the notice of exclusion shall be used as evidence on appeal, unless the appellant requests, in writing, the presence of the Person in Charge at the appeal hearing.
  4. C.  City Parking Garages Rules of Conduct
    1. 1.  No person shall violate federal, state, or city law.
    2. 2.  No person shall enter or remain for any purpose other than to park or retrieve a motor vehicle or do business with a City parking garage retail tenant.
    3. 3.  No person shall possess any weapon or any similar instrument that can be used to inflict injury upon a person or damage to property, except to the extent permitted by Oregon law.
    4. 4.  No person shall use City parking garages for the purpose of housing or camping, including but not limited to, sleeping, bathing, cooking, or use as a restroom.
    5. 5.  No person shall deface, damage, or destroy City parking garages.
    6. 6.  Unless authorized by the City of Portland, no person shall post or place on cars any handbills, flyers, or posters of any kind within City parking garages.
    7. 7.  No person shall engage in sexual conduct as defined by ORS 167.060 (10).
    8. 8.  Other than at City of Portland authorized events, no person shall possess an open container of alcohol or consume alcoholic beverages.
    9. 9.  Other than at City of Portland authorized events, no person shall play or use amplified or audio equipment at a level that disturbs others.
    10. 10.  Other than at City of Portland authorized events, no person shall participate in parties, rave parties, or other similar gatherings.
    11. 11.  No person shall use City parking garages and/or their structures and fixtures, including but not limited to, walls, railings, banisters, stairs, or ventilation fixtures, in ways they were not intended to be used, including but not limited to, sitting, standing, lying kneeling, skating, or skateboarding.
    12. 12.  No person shall smoke or carry any lighted smoking instrument while in the elevator or any enclosed portion of City parking garages.
    13. 13.  No person shall engage in conduct that disrupts or interferes with normal operations of City parking garages, or any tenant of a City parking garage, or that disturbs employees or patrons of City parking garages, including but not limited to, conduct that involves the use of abusive or threatening language or gestures, conduct that creates unreasonable noise, or conduct that consists of loud or boisterous physical behavior.
    14. 14.  No person shall interfere with free passage of patron or employees of City parking garages, including but not limited to, placing objects such as bicycles, backpacks, carts or other items in a manner that interferes with free passage.
    15. 15.  No person shall refuse to obey any posted parking signs or any reasonable direction of a Parking Garage Officer.

16.20.920 Garage Parking Rates.

(Added by Ordinance 185351; amended by Ordinance 189529, effective June 28, 2019.)  

  1. The Bureau of Transportation Director shall be authorized to set parking rates at City-owned Parking Garages without first returning to City Council, subject to the following provisions:
  2. A.  Portland City Council shall set the hourly parking rate for the first four hours at all City Parking Garages.
  3. B.  The Transportation Director may set different parking rates at different locations and may consider the following factors when setting parking rates:
    1. 1.  Rate changes may reflect an amount intended to reach a desired occupancy rate in each location;
    2. 2.  Rate changes may reflect the annual consumer price index (CPI) for inflation in the Portland Metropolitan Area;
    3. 3.  Rate changes may reflect market conditions in the Portland Central City;
    4. 4.  Rate changes may accommodate specific site characteristics and seasonal events; and
    5. 5.  Rate changes may reflect parking conditions, including without limitation the availability and desirability of reserved and non-reserved parking spaces.
  4. C.  Parking rates may not exceed the following rate maximums without Council approval:
    1. 1.  Weekday daily maximum: $40
    2. 2.  Weekday evening maximum: $20
    3. 3.  Weekend daily maximum: $30
    4. 4.  Weekend evening maximum: $15
    5. 5.  Monthly general access: $400
    6. 6.  Monthly reserved: $450
    7. 7.  Monthly carpool: $300
    8. 8.  Monthly motorcycle: $250
    9. 9.  Event maximum: $50

Upcoming and Recent Changes

Ordinance 191187

Effective Date