Request for Public Comment for Proposed Street Takeover Ordinance

Large unpermitted street racing events involving high speed and at times pedestrian onlookers have grown in number and size across the City of Portland. Attached below is a draft of an ordinance from Mayor Wheeler's office to put before City Council for them to comment on. Community members are also encouraged to share public comment by emailing MayorWheeler@PortlandOregon.gov.

View full size image of Street racing in Portland

The draft of the ordinance--and the accompanying code provision--propose that City Council approve two different misdemeanor offenses for participating in such events: unlawful street takeover and unlawful staging of street takeover events.

The new proposal would introduce penalties for those involved in street races including:

• Fines of up to $500
• Possible jail time
• Towed cars

First-time offenders, however, could avoid other penalties by choosing to participate in a diversion program approved by the District Attorney, unless the conduct results in death or physical injury as defined by ORS 161.015 to a person other than the defendant.