News Release: PBOT extends public comment period on proposed updates to rule for Automated Vehicles (AVs) to April 10

(March 19, 2026) The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) is seeking public input on its proposed update to TRN-14.34 (Automated Vehicles).

In response to strong interest from the public, the bureau is extending the public comment period until 5 p.m. Friday, April 10. It had been set to end, after 45 days, on April 4. So far, PBOT has gathered more than 70 comments and held in person and virtual meetings with dozens of people attending.

This administrative rule was adopted by City Council in 2018 and was intended to regulate the testing of AVs and limit the commercial deployment of AVs for-hire on Portland streets. Since then, AVs have become widespread and are active in over a dozen U.S. cities, with companies announcing plans to deploy in at least 20 more cities in the coming year.

PBOT has been engaging peers in other U.S. cities to learn more about the practical opportunities and challenges of AVs in urban environments. In light of these developments, PBOT is proposing several updates to TRN-14.34 that are designed to create a framework that enables PBOT to properly manage the testing or commercial operation of for-hire AVs onto our streets.

Comments on the proposed update may be submitted to pbotpolicycomments@portlandoregon.gov. 

Staff will consider all comments. After the public comment period ends, PBOT will post a summary of the comments received and discuss the public's feedback with City leadership before determining any next steps on automated vehicles.

To stay up-to-date on all of PBOT's administrative rule updates, bookmark our website Updates to Transportation City Code and Administrative Rules.

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The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) is the steward of the city's transportation system and a community partner in shaping a livable city. We plan, build, manage, and maintain an effective and safe transportation system that provides access and mobility.