Chapter 16.10
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
(New Title substituted by Ord. No. 165189,
effective July 1, 1992.)
Sections:
16.10.001 Purpose.
16.10.020 Where Regulations Apply.
16.10.050 Compliance Required.
16.10.060 Citations and Nuisances.
16.10.080 Altering or Erecting Traffic Control Devices.
16.10.100 Road Authority.
16.10.200 Duties of the City Traffic Engineer.
16.10.300 Administrative Policy and Procedures.
16.10.400 Regulation Standards.
16.10.500 Fees and Fines.
16.10.600 Authority of Law Enforcement and Fire Officers.
16.10.650 Parking Enforcement Deputies.
16.10.001 Purpose.
This chapter describes the authority of the City to establish traffic laws and to erect traffic control devices. It also describes the specific authorities of certain City officers and employees to administer and enforce the Code.
16.10.020 Where Regulations Apply.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 172976, effective December 23, 1998.) The regulations of this chapter apply to all public right-of-ways, other designated public areas in the City of Portland and to private property specifically noted in this chapter.
16.10.050 Compliance Required.
It is unlawful for a pedestrian or the operator of any vehicle to disobey the instructions of a traffic control device placed in accordance with the provisions of this Title, unless otherwise directed by an authorized officer.
It is unlawful for any person to refuse or fail to comply with any lawful order, signal, or the direction of any officer displaying a badge with the legal authority to direct, control, or regulate traffic.
16.10.060 Citations and Nuisances.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165987 and 170923, effective March 21,1997.)
A. When a vehicle is found in violation of this Title or any other Title of the City Code or state law, the officer finding the vehicle will:
1. note the license number and/or any other information displayed on the vehicle that may identify the owner; and
2. issue to the operator or place in a conspicuous space on the vehicle involved in the violation a serially numbered parking citation.
B. The citation will instruct the vehicle owner to answer to the charge or pay the penalty imposed within a specific number of days, during specific hours, and at a specific place or to be mailed in a specific number of days.
C. It is a violation of this Title to be the owner of a vehicle parked in violation of any of the provisions of this Title.
D. It is unlawful for any unauthorized person to change, erase, alter mar, mark, mutilate, or destroy a traffic citation form that has been issued under authority of this Title.
E. Unless otherwise provided for in this Title, any person violating a provision of this Title is subject to a fine of up to $500 upon conviction of the violation.
F. The court may proceed to make a determination, enter a disposition, and enter a judgement without a hearing on a citation issued under this Title if the person cited fails to request a hearing within the time provided on the citation. In no event shall a judgement be taken sooner that 60 days from the date of the citation and without prior notice by mail to the person against whom the judgement is taken.
G. When a nonvehicular violation of this Title is discovered, the adjacent property owner is responsible for all abatement proceedings.
16.10.080 Altering or Erecting Traffic Control Devices.
(Amended by Ord. No. 166575, June 2, 1993.) It is unlawful for any person to alter in any manner a traffic control device erected or established by authority of this Title. It is also unlawful for any person to erect, display, or maintain any traffic control device without authorization of this Title.
Every unauthorized traffic control device is hereby declared to be a public nuisance and is subject to summary abatement.
The parking-prohibited area for driveways as defined in 16.20.130 (V) and 16.90.105 may be painted and maintained with traffic line yellow paint by the adjacent property owner or occupant, subject to the following:
A. The traffic line yellow paint may extend across the apron (throat) of the driveway.
B. The wing, radius, and/or apron paint may only be painted up to a width of the curb or to a maximum width of eight inches as measured from and beginning at the face of the wing, radius, and/or throat.
C. The wings, curb returns, and/or aprons of driveways at locations that are officially designated as prohibitive or restrictive parking, such as “No Parking At Any Time,” “No Parking In This Block,” “Truck Loading All Hours/All Days” zones may not be painted.
The City Traffic Engineer may paint driveway clearances and stencil “No Parking” on the apron and paint keys in the road area of any driveway in the city to facilitate access upon receipt of a signed application and appropriate fee.
16.10.100 Road Authority.
(Amend by Ord. No. 170923, effective March 21, 1997.) As the City’s elected body, the City Council is the road authority for all public streets, except state highways, as designated by State Law. The City Council may delegate specific road authority to the City Traffic Engineer, City Engineer or Emergency Incident Commander as the Council deems appropriate.
16.10.200 Duties of the City Traffic Engineer.
(Amended by Ordinance Nos. 170923, 172976, 173369 and 173627, effective August 4, 1999.) The City Traffic Engineer will be designated by the Commissioner-In- Charge of the Bureau of Transportation System Management. The City Traffic Engineer or his/her designee may exercise the following duties and responsibilities:
A. Implement ordinances, resolutions and directions of the City Council and orders of the Commissioner-In-Charge of the Bureau of Transportation System Management by installing, removing, and altering traffic control devices.
B. Establish, remove, or alter traffic controls, including but not limited to:
1. crosswalks, traffic lanes, one-way streets, stop intersections or places, and no passing zones;
2. intersection channelization and areas where vehicle drivers may not make right, left, or U-turns, and the time when the prohibition applies;
3. parking areas and time limitations, including the form of permissible parking (e.g., parallel or diagonal);
4. regulated parking zones;
5. traffic control signals and any device that regulates a traffic control signal;
6. bicycle lanes and traffic controls for such facilities; and
7. other regulatory, warning, and guide signs.
C. Issue vehicle parking permits that authorize specified parking privilege.
D. Temporarily reserve portions of the street area according to regulations found in Section 16.20.500.
E. Issue vehicle permits for the movement of over dimensional vehicles on or over City streets.
F. Designate certain streets where certain classes of over dimensional vehicles may move on or over without a permit.
G. Designate streets where certain classes of vehicles may not move on or over except for local access.
H. Temporarily reduce speed limits when allowed by the provisions of ORS 810.180.
I. Designate certain streets as bridle paths and prohibit horses and animals on other streets.
J. Determine the location, design, and construction of streetlights.
K. Designate transit lanes and street locations where certain transit vehicles may proceed in a manner prohibited to other traffic.
L. Require the removal or pruning of any street tree, vegetation or other obstruction in the public right-of-way that obscures the visibility of or for drivers, bicyclists, or pedestrians, or in any way presents a safety hazard.
M. Regulate the installation and presence of banner signs on lighting poles owned by the City.
N. Install temporary traffic control devices when traffic conditions constitute a danger to the public.
O. Whenever specifically provided in the Title, the City Traffic Engineer may assess civil penalties for violations of the provisions of Title 16. The City Traffic Engineer shall adopt rules, procedures, and forms to be used in assessing such civil penalties. In determining the amount of any civil penalty to be assessed, the City Traffic Engineer shall consider the following criteria:
1. The extent and nature of the violation;
2. The benefits, financial or otherwise, accruing or likely to accrue as a result of the violations;
3. Whether the violations were repeated and continuous, or isolated and temporary;
4. The magnitude and seriousness of the violation;
5. The City’s cost of investigating the violation and correcting or attempting to correct the violation; and
6. Any other relevant factors.
P. The City Traffic Engineer’s assessment of civil penalties may be appealed to the Code Hearings Officer according to the provisions of Title 22 of the Portland City Code.
Q. Regulate the installation and presence of animated signs, on private property or public right-of-ways, that create a traffic safety hazard for persons using the public right-of-ways.
16.10.300 Administrative Rules and Procedures.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 173627, effective August 4, 1999.) Traffic and Parking management rules and procedures not specified in this Code are governed by the Bureau of Transportation System Management Rules and Procedures Manual. It is the duty of the Bureau Director to develop and implement the Bureau of Transportation System Management’s Rules and Procedures Manual. The Commissioner-In-Charge of the Bureau of Transportation System Management or the City Council may amend the Manual at any time.
Exceptions to the Rules in the Manual may be made only with prior approval of the City Traffic Engineer or the Bureau Director. Procedures in the Manual are intended to serve as a general outline on how to apply or implement a rule or program.
16.10.400 Regulation Standards.
The City Traffic Engineer may erect traffic control devices and impose regulations to control traffic and parking in the City of Portland. The regulations of the City Traffic Engineer or his/her designee will be based on:
A. traffic engineering principles and traffic investigations;
B. standards, limitations, and rules issued by the Oregon Transportation Commission; and
C. other recognized traffic control standards.
16.10.500 Fees and Fines.
(Amended by Ordinance Nos. 170923 and 173627, effective August 4, 1999.) Fees for permits and fines for permit abuse, authorized by this Title, must be established or modified by ordinance of the City Council.
All fees, civil penalties, and fines collected by authority of this Title will be dedicated to the Transportation Operating Fund unless specifically directed otherwise by City Code. All fees, civil penalties, and fines established by authority of this Title will be listed in the Bureau of Transportation System Management’s Rules and Procedures Manual.
16.10.600 Authority of Law Enforcement, Fire Officers, and Emergency Incident Commanders.
(Amended by Ord. No. 170923, effective March 21, 1997.) If a fire or other public emergency occurs, officers of the Bureaus of Police and Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services may direct traffic as conditions require, notwithstanding the provisions of this Title. In the event of an emergency or disaster that results in the implementation of the City Basic Emergency Services Plan, as established in Chapter 15.12, the Incident Commander may direct traffic and parking controls appropriate to the incident, notwithstanding the provisions of this Title.
16.10.650 Parking Enforcement Deputies.
(Amended by Ordinance Nos. 170923 and 173627, effective August 4, 1999.) Parking enforcement supervisors and deputies under the administration and control of the Bureau of Transportation System Management as established in Section 3.12.040, will serve as follows:
A. The duties of the position of parking enforcement deputy are to provide assistance as special police officer in the enforcement of parking regulations as provided by this Title, and other related work under the direction of the Bureau Director.
B. Persons appointed as parking enforcement deputies or as supervisors, will be special police officers of the City. As special police officers, the parking informant deputies and supervisors will have authority to issue citations for parking violations.
Chapter 16.20
PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY PARKING
Sections:
16.20.001 Purpose.
16.20.100 General Parking Methods.
16.20.110 Generally.
16.20.120 Prohibited Parking or Stopping of a Vehicle.
16.20.130 Prohibited in Specific Places.
16.20.150 Prohibited Practices.
16.20.160 Use of Streets in Lieu of Off-street Parking or Storage.
16.20.170 Storing Property on Street Prohibited.
16.20.190 Successive Violations.
16.20.200 Regulated Parking Zones.
16.20.201 Purpose.
16.20.203 Regulated Parking Zone Designations.
16.20.205 Enforcement of Regulated Parking Zones.
16.20.210 No Parking Zones.
16.20.213 No Parking or Stopping Zone.
16.20.215 Theater Zone.
16.20.220 Truck Loading Zone.
16.20.230 Bus Zone.
16.20.235 Tri-Met Bus Zone.
16.20.240 Taxi Zone.
16.20.250 Disabled Person Zone.
16.20.260 Time Zones.
16.20.270 Carpool Zone.
16.20.280 Official/Reserved Zones.
16.20.400 Metered Parking.
16.20.401 Purpose.
16.20.405 Enforcement of Metered Parking Spaces.
16.20.410 Administration of Meters.
16.20.420 Determination of Meter District Boundaries.
16.20.430 Meter Time.
16.20.440 Meter Fees.
16.20.450 Obstruction of Meters.
16.20.460 Meter Hoods.
16.20.470 Injury to or Theft From Meters; Unauthorized Possession of Implements.
16.20.500 General Parking Permits.
16.20.501 Purpose.
16.20.503 Current Approval Required Before Use.
16.20.505 All Traffic Laws Apply to Permit Holder.
16.20.510 Construction Area Permit.
16.20.520 Maintenance Hood Permit.
16.20.530 Temporary Truck Loading Area Permit.
16.20.540 Angle Loading Permit.
16.20.550 Travel Lane Parking Permit.
16.20.560 Special Use Permit.
16.20.595 Improper Use.
16.20.600 Vehicle Parking Permits.
16.20.601 Purpose.
16.20.603 Current Approval Required Before Use.
16.20.605 All Traffic Laws Apply to Permit Holder.
16.20.610 Media Permit.
16.20.620 Commercial Permit.
16.20.630 Delivery Permit.
16.20.640 Disabled Person Permit.
16.20.650 Government Permit.
16.20.660 Nonprofit Permit.
16.20.670 Carpool Permit for Metered Parking.
16.20.675 Carpool Zone Permit.
16.20.680 Other Permit.
16.20.695 Improper Use.
16.20.800 Area Parking Permit Program.
16.20.801 Purpose.
16.20.810 Definitions.
16.20.830 Area Eligibility.
16.20.840 Process.
16.20.850 Program Administration.
16.20.860 Violation and Enforcement.
16.20.001 Purpose.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165594, July 8, 1992.) This chapter describes the regulation of parking on public right-of-ways, including but not limited to streets, designated parking areas, planting strips, and sidewalks.
The Public Right-of-Way Parking Chapter is organized in six sections:
A. 16.20.100 General Parking Methods describes the general rules of legal parking and enforcement of parking regulations.
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.
C. 16.20.400 Metered Parking describes additional regulations for parking in designated parking meter districts.
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.
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).
F. 16.20.800 Area Parking Permit Program provides additional protection and parking management to areas with commuter parking problems.
16.20.100 General Parking Methods.
16.20.110 Generally.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165594, July 8, 1992.) 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.
A. Emergency vehicles may stop or park in any manner necessary at any time while serving an emergency.
B. No person may park or stop a vehicle other than in the direction of traffic.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Ordinance Nos. 165594, 166575, 170923 and 173369, effective May 12, 1999.) 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:
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.
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.
C. At an angle to traffic flow except:
1. Where angle parking is designated by official parking space markings or other traffic control devices.
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.
D. Outside of or across an official line or mark designating a parking space, or between such lines in a maneuvering area.
E. So as to prevent the free passage of other vehicles, including rail vehicles and bicycles, on any street or alley.
F. On or over an official fog or edge line.
G. Adjacent to a curb painted or taped yellow if the paint or tape is authorized by the City Traffic Engineer.
H. When the vehicle is: a truck, a truck trailer, a motor bus, a recreational vehicle, a utility trailer, 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. 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. A recreation vehicle when servicing or loading/unloading the vehicle for a period not to exceed 8 hours.
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.
I. When the vehicle is: a truck, truck trailer, a motor bus, recreational vehicle, a utility trailer, 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. Between the hours of 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. for a period not to exceed 4 hours; or
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.
J. On the roadway side of a vehicle which is stopped or parked:
1. In an officially designated parking space; or
2. Adjacent to the curb line of a street.
K. Alongside or opposite a street excavation or obstruction when stopping or parking would obstruct traffic.
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.
M. Without doing all of the following if leaving the vehicle unattended:
1. Stopping the engine;
2. Turning the front wheels to the curb or side of the street when on any grade;
3. Locking the ignition;
4. Removing the key from the ignition; and
5. Effectively setting the brake on the vehicle.
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.
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 Bureau of Buildings. 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.
P. In the public right-of-way, public park, or city-owned or operated property if the vehicle is abandoned.
Q. In a manner that creates a traffic hazard impeding the safe movement of vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
16.20.130 Prohibited in Specified Places.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165594, July 8, 1992.) 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:
A. Within 50 feet of an intersection when:
1. The vehicle or a view obstructing attachment to the vehicle is more than 6 feet in height; or
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.
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.
B. Within 15 feet of a driveway to any fire station unless allowed by official signs or markings.
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.
D. In front of any portion of a handicap access ramp.
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.
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.
G. In violation of the provisions of any area parking permit program as defined in 16.20.800.
H. On any mass transit lane or street as defined in Section 16.50.
I. On any planting strip, sidewalk, or pedestrian way.
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. The stopped or parked vehicle is visible from a distance of 200 feet in each direction upon the roadway; or
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.
K. On the approaches to or upon any restricted access highway, bridge, viaduct, or other elevated structure, unless permitted by authority of this Title.
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.
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.
N. On any municipal terminal except in the place and manner permitted by official signs or markings.
O. On any pier or dock of a municipal terminal except when loading/unloading freight in compliance with any official signs or markings.
P. On or within an intersection.
Q. On or within a crosswalk.
R. Within any tunnel unless parking in officially designated spaces.
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.
T. In the area between roadways of a divided street or highway.
U. On or within a bicycle lane, path, or trail.
V. In front of any portion of a driveway ingress/egress to the public right-of-way.
16.20.150 Prohibited Practices.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165594 and 166575, June 2, 1993.) No person may park or permit to be parked a vehicle on a street or other public property for the principal purpose of:
A. Displaying the vehicle for sale;
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);
C. Displaying advertising from the vehicle; or
D. Selling merchandise from the vehicle, except when authorized by permit or City Code. See also: 14.20.060, 14.20.070, 14.20.080, 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 No. 171455, effective August 29, 1997.)
A. It is unlawful for any person engaged in the public vehicle parking business or in the 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 of the business for the purpose of being parked, offered for sale, repaired, or serviced.
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; “person” shall be the owner or operator of the business.
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.
16.20.170 Storing Property on Street Prohibited.
(Amended by Ordinance Nos. 165594 and 172788, effective November 13, 1998.)
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 Bureau of Buildings.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
16.20.200 Regulated Parking Zones.
16.20.201 Purpose.
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.
A. Anyone may request that the City Traffic Engineer designate a regulated parking zone on any particular street or highway.
B. When evaluating designation of a regulated parking zone, factors the City Traffic Engineer may consider include:
1. The nature of land use within the block;
2. The volume of traffic;
3. The volume of parking;
4. The width of surface of the street;
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. Patrons and prospective patrons of the places within the block or area to be served by the parking zone; and
7. The hours of day or night when use of the parking zone is necessary or most convenient.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Bureau of Buildings. Any nonvehicular property stored in a regulated parking zone is a nuisance and may be summarily abated.
16.20.210 No Parking Zones.
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.
16.20.213 No Stopping or Parking Zone.
No vehicle may stop or park in any no parking or stopping zone.
16.20.215 Theater Zone.
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 Ord. No. 165594 and 166575, June 2, 1993.)
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.
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. A truck as defined by this Title that permanently exhibits the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating according to paragraph 6;
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. 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. Any vehicle with Farm Vehicle registration plates when actively engaged in loading/unloading merchandise; or
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. A vehicle required to exhibit any lettering must do so:
a. On both sides of the vehicle;
b. In 2-inch or larger lettering;
c. In a color that clearly contrasts with the color on which the lettering is displayed; and
d. So that the lettering is clearly visible at a distance of 20 feet.
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.
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.
16.20.230 Bus Zone.
Only a motor bus may park in a bus zone.
16.20.235 Tri-Met Bus Zone.
No vehicle may park in any Tri-Met Bus Zone, except:
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;
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
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.
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.
A. Location of taxi zones will be determined by the City Traffic Engineer with the advice of the Taxicab Regulation Supervisor.
B. No vehicle may park in a taxi zone except a taxicab operated by authority of a current taxicab company permit.
C. No taxicab driver may leave a vehicle unattended in a taxi zone adjacent to a fire hydrant for any reason.
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.
E. No person may make repairs to a taxicab parked in a Taxi Zone.
16.20.250 Disabled Person Zone.
No vehicle may stop or park in a disabled zone except:
A. a vehicle transporting a disabled person with an official disabled person placard issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles;
B. a vehicle with official disabled registration plates while transporting a disabled person; or
C. a Tri-Met bus loading/unloading disabled passengers.
16.20.260 Time Zones.
A. A vehicle may park in a time zone only for a period not to exceed the posted time limit.
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.
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. The vehicle has moved 500 or more lineal feet, measured along the curb or edge line;
2. The vehicle has moved to an unregulated parking area in the same block face; or
3. The vehicle has vacated the block face for 3 hours.
16.20.270 Carpool Zone.
No vehicle may park in a carpool zone during designated hours except vehicles displaying a current carpool permit.
16.20.280 Official/Reserved Zones.
A. An official/reserved zone is a parking area reserved for specific vehicles.
B. No vehicle may park in an official/reserved zone unless authorized as indicated by the sign or markings of the zone.
16.20.400 Metered Parking.
16.20.401 Purpose.
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.
A. Parking meters are in effect during all hours indicated on the meter.
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.
C. Emergency vehicles may stop or park in any metered space at any time while serving an emergency.
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.
The City Traffic Engineer is responsible for the administration of all parking meters including but not limited to: determining meter area boundaries, setting time limits, determining fees, and collecting fee revenue.
16.20.420 Determination of Meter District Boundaries.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 173627, effective August 4, 1999.)
A. Changes to or establishment of a parking meter district is initiated at the sole discretion of the City Traffic Engineer.
B. Before expanding or establishing a new parking meter district, 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.
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.
D. The City Traffic Engineer may consider the following factors when determining a parking meter district boundary:
1. The amount of area presently under parking sign controls.
2. Adjacent property owner and property tenant demand and interest in having metered parking control.
3. Need for increased turnover of parking spaces and public right-of-way management.
4. Mitigation of traffic and parking impact on adjacent areas.
5. Impact on current parking meter district enforcement.
E. Current meter district boundaries shall be listed in the Bureau of Transportation System Management’s Rules and Procedures Manual.
16.20.430 Meter Time.
A. It is unlawful for any person to permit any vehicle in their control or custody to remain in any parking meter space longer than the time designated for such space.
B. At short-term meters, it is unlawful to deposit, or cause to be deposited, a coin to extend the parking time beyond the designated limit for parking in the metered space.
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.
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.
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. The vehicle has moved 500 or more lineal feet, measured along the curb or edge line;
2. The vehicle has moved to an unregulated parking area in the same block face; or
3. The vehicle has vacated the block face for a period of 3 hours.
F. A vehicle may not be parked in a space with a broken or “out of order” short-term meter for a period of time longer than the time limit indicated on the meter.
16.20.440 Meter Fees.
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 by the person parking the vehicle, except:
A. During all the days and the hours that a meter fee is not required as indicated on the meter.
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 charge 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.
C. Any government vehicle, so identified by public registration plates, may park without fee for the maximum time limit allowable at any metered parking space.
D. A vehicle with a current permit authorizing parking at a meter without payment of the meter fee, as defined in Section 16.20.500 and 16.20.600.
E. A vehicle, for the sole purpose of loading/unloading passengers, for a period not to exceed 30 seconds.
16.20.450 Obstruction of Meters.
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 Meter Hoods.
A. A city-issued meter hood may be secured over a parking meter to reserve a parking space according to the permit’s administrative regulations.
B. A vehicle parked prior to meter hood placement will not be considered parked in violation until it is parked longer than the time limit indicated on the meter.
C. The issuance and use of parking meter hoods is permissive and will not be construed to vest any privilege or property right to the permittee. Hoods, padlocks, and keys remain the property of the City.
D. The permittee will be charged a fee for replacement and administrative costs for parking meter hoods which are lost, damaged or vandalized.
E. A fee will be charged to the permittee when a meter hood is not returned on the date designated.
F. The permittee will be charged an additional fee for each hood which is retrieved by City personnel.
G. The sign(s), meter hoods, or other devices designating a reserved area may only be used to reserve the number of parking spaces or total street frontage as allowed by the permit.
16.20.470 Injury to or Theft From Meters; Unauthorized Possession of Implements.
(Added by Ord No. 170923, March 21, 1997.)
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.
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.
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 the money compartment of any parking meter maintained by the City unless authorized to do so by the City Traffic Engineer.
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.
E. For each violation of this Section, a court may impose a fine of not more than $500 and imprisonment for not more than 6 months, or both.
16.20.500 General Parking Permits.
16.20.501 Purpose.
General parking permits may be issued to reserve public right-of-way areas for use by designated parties. The City Traffic Engineer may issue permits, parking meter hoods, signs, or other devices to temporarily reserve public right-of-way areas outside of the Special Traffic Control District (17.23). Within the Special Traffic Control District, the City Engineer may issue a general parking permit. General parking permits may 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.
A. All general parking permits, including meter hoods, must have current approval of the City Engineer or the City Traffic Engineer at the time the permit is used by the permittee.
B. The City Traffic Engineer or City Engineer may deny a general parking permit application based on a demonstrated history of improper use by the applicant during the previous 12 months.
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 City Traffic Engineer.
D. The City Traffic Engineer may require insurance to indemnify the City from liability before issuing a general parking permit.
E. Replacement permit cards may be issued by the City Traffic Engineer upon receipt of a fee from the permittee.
F. A decision of the City Traffic Engineer 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.
16.20.505 All Traffic Laws Apply to Permit Holder.
All permit holders and permitted vehicles are subject to all traffic laws and regulations not explicitly superseded by the permit.
16.20.510 Construction Area Permit.
A. A 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.
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 meter hood/sign may only be used to establish a construction area when the parking of the vehicle is essential to the performance of the construction work. 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.
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.
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 Area Permit.
A. A temporary truck loading permit may be issued to any person proving need for the permit. The temporary truck loading area must be designated by portable signs or parking meter hoods or as otherwise designated by the administrative instructions of the permit. The signs, meter hoods, or other devices designating the area may only be used where allowed by the permit.
B. No vehicle may park in a temporary truck loading area unless authorized by the temporary truck loading area permit.
16.20.540 Angle Loading Permit.
An angle loading permit may be granted by the City Traffic Engineer to facilitate the loading/unloading of vehicles, subject to the following provisions:
A. When angle parked, the permittee must be actively engaged in loading/ unloading the vehicle.
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.
C. Angle loading/unloading will be subject to the time limit established by the City Traffic Engineer for each individual permit.
D. In the case of a tractor and trailer combination, the tractor may be required to be removed and parked separately.
E. The City Traffic Engineer may require a traffic control plan to be implemented as a condition of the permit.
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 Ord. No. 165594, July 8, 1992.)
A. A street closure permit must be obtained from the City Engineer per Title 17.44.020 for the following purposes:
1. Facilitating construction, demolition or installation of facilities on public or private property.
2. Restricting vehicular use of an unimproved street for the protection of the public or to eliminate a neighborhood nuisance.
3. Providing for special events, such as block parties or neighborhood fairs.
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. A traffic control plan to be implemented; and
2. Insurance to indemnify the City for liability related to permit use.
16.20.560 Special Use Permit.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 173627, effective August 4, 1999.)
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 Police or Transportation System Management Bureaus. Special use permits will not be issued to allow the display or sale of merchandise.
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 Ord. No. 170923, effective March 21, 1997.)
A. The improper use of a permit, meter hood, sign, or curb marking will be cause for the revocation of the permit, meter hood, sign, or curb marking and/or for a civil penalty to 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.
B. The permit applicant is fully responsible for any violation of the conditions of the permit.
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.
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.
16.20.600 Vehicle Parking Permits.
16.20.601 Purpose.
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.
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.
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.
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.
D. A duplicate permit may be issued by the City Traffic Engineer upon receipt of a replacement application and fee from the permittee.
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.
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.
16.20.605 All Traffic Laws Apply to Permit Holder.
All permit holders and permitted vehicles are subject to all traffic laws and regulations not explicitly superseded by the permit.
16.20.610 Media Permit.
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 with a daily circulation. The permit may contain restrictions as deemed necessary by the City Traffic Engineer.
16.20.620 Commercial Permit.
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.
16.20.630 Delivery Permit.
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 Permit.
(Amended by Ord. No. 166575 and 170923, effective March 21, 1997.)
A. A vehicle with an official disabled person registration plate, while transporting a disabled person, or a vehicle while transporting a person with an official disabled person placard issued by a state Department of Motor Vehicles, may park:
1. In any space designated for a vehicle with a disabled person parking permit for any amount of time (subject to on-street storage regulations);
2. In any metered or nonmetered space with a designated time limit of 30 minutes or more for any amount of time without fee; or
3. In any metered or nonmetered 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, except in any space reserved for special types of vehicles or activities; e.g., truck loading zones, carpool zones, area parking permit areas.
B. A vehicle with a program placard issued under Oregon Revised Statutes 811.607 may park as provided under Oregon Revised Statues 811.637.
C. Penalties:
1. Unlawful use: if a person is not a disabled person and is not transporting the holder of a disabled parking permit to or from the parking location and the person uses a disabled parking permit to exercise parking privileges under this Section, that person commits unlawful use under Oregon Revised Statutes.
2. Misuse: if a driver uses a disabled parking permit for any purpose other than exercising the privileges granted, the driver commits permit misuse under Oregon Revised Statues.
16.20.650 Government Permit.
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.
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.
16.20.670 Carpool Permit for Metered Parking.
A vehicle with a carpool permit may park without payment of the meter fee only at any long-term metered parking space, or at spaces reserved for carpool permit parking.
16.20.675 Carpool Zone Permit.
A vehicle with a carpool zone permit may park in the area designated on the permit according to the rules of the permit.
16.20.680 Other Permit.
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.
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.
B. The vehicle permit applicant is fully responsible for any violation of the conditions of the permit.
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.
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.
16.20.800 Area Parking Permit Program.
16.20.801 Purpose.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Ord. No. 165594, July 8, 1992.)
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.
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.
C. “Area business” is any professional establishment or nonresident property owner whose business property is located within a permit area.
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.
E. “Area resident” is any person who resides within the permit area.
F. “Area vehicle” is one that originates from inside the permit area and/or has an apparent connection or business within the permit area.
G. “Business District Association” is any group listed by the Office of Neighborhood Associations to represent businesses of a geographic area within the City.
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.
I. “Complimentary Hours Permit” is the permit(s) granted to each area program permit holder for guest parking for special occasions.
J. “Effective hours” are the days and hours during which the area permit program applies as defined by each individual Supplemental Plan.
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.
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.
M. “Neighborhood association” is any group recognized by the Office of Neighborhood Associations to represent residents of a geographic area within the City.
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.
O. “Permit area” is any area as designated by an initiating petition or as modified in the boundary description.
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 lower left corner of the rear window behind the driver’s head. Permit decals expire on the last day of the permit year in which they are issued.
Q. “Permit program” is any Area Permit Parking Program created and administered under this Code Chapter 16.20.800.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
X. “Unauthorized permit” is the display of any permit decal not assigned to that vehicle as defined in the supplemental plan description.
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.
All of the following eligibility criteria must be met before the area will be considered for the area parking permit program:
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.
B. The requesting area must consist of a minimum of 40 block faces or 8,000 lineal feet of curb space.
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.
D. The City Traffic Engineer must agree that the area permit parking program would promote benefits within the designated area.
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. 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 Ord. No. 170923, effective March 21, 1997.) The following process must be followed to establish area permit parking programs:
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. The parking problem;
2. The probable cause of the problem;
3. The proposed boundaries of the congested area;
4. The number of individual addresses in the congested area; and
5. The permit fees of the program.
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.
C. Upon receipt of the petition, the City Traffic Engineer must initiate a preliminary investigation to verify that the area meets the criteria.
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.
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.
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.
G. If the vote in Paragraph F. is negative, a minimum of 12 months must elapse before any new proposal can be initiated.
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.
I. The program will renew annually, unless:
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. The designated area does not meet the rules or procedures established by the City Traffic Engineer.
J. Changes to boundaries of existing permit areas desired by area residents must be made according to the following procedure:
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. The changes must be approved by the City Traffic Engineer and by a majority of the Area Parking Committee.
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. 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.
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. Meeting with the Area Parking Committee;
2. Planning and coordinating registration and enforcement; and
3. Completing any other such duties described in the Supplemental Plan Description.
B. On an annual basis, the City Traffic Engineer will notify area residents and businesses of the need to register for the coming permit year.
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. 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. 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.
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.
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.
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 Ord. No. 165594, July 8, 1992.)
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).
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.)
C. During permit designated hours, it is unlawful for a nonpermitted vehicle to:
1. Exceed the maximum visitor time limit allowed within the signed permit area;
2. Return to the signed permit area for a period of 12 hours after parking for any time period.
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. 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. No additional permits will be issued to the permit holder until all fines have been paid.
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.
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.
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.
Chapter 16.30
TOWING & DISPOSITION OF VEHICLES
Sections:
16.30.001 Purpose.
16.30.100 Authority to Tow Vehicles and Establish Hearing Procedures.
16.30.200 Vehicle Towing.
16.30.210 When a Vehicle May be Towed.
16.30.220 Towing Without Prior Notice.
16.30.225 Towing With 24 Hour or 72 Hour Notice.
16.30.240 Towing Upon Order of Circuit Court.
16.30.300 Notice of Vehicle Tow.
16.30.310 Notice Prior to Tow.
16.30.320 Notice After Vehicle Tow.
16.30.340 Unidentifiable Vehicle.
16.30.350 Notice to Contest Tow When Vehicle Claimed.
16.30.400 Tow Hearing Procedure.
16.30.410 Request for Hearing.
16.30.420 Hearing Procedure.
16.30.430 When Tow Found Invalid.
16.30.440 When Tow Found Valid.
16.30.450 Hearing Administration.
16.30.500 Fee Payments and Vehicle Release Procedure.
16.30.510 Towing and Storage Rates.
16.30.520 Charges and Release of Vehicle.
16.30.530 When Tow Found Invalid.
16.30.540 When Tow Found Valid.
16.30.550 Storage Charges at Completion of Hearing.
16.30.600 Selling Abandoned Vehicles.
16.30.610 When a Vehicle May Be Sold.
16.30.620 Sale of Vehicles.
16.30.700 Moving Vehicles for Street and Utility Maintenance and for Emergencies.
16.30.710 Authority to Move Vehicles.
16.30.720 When a Vehicle May Be Moved.
16.30.730 Manner of Moving Vehicle.
16.30.800 Regulation of Towers.
16.30.810 Solicitation of Towing Business at Accidents Prohibited.
16.30.820 Obstructing Traffic.
16.30.830 Failure to Remove Injurious Substance.
16.30.001 Purpose.
This section describes when a vehicle may or will be towed for parking violation(s), the manner of the towing, storage of the vehicle, and the release or disposition of the vehicle.
16.30.100 Authority to Tow Vehicles and Establish Hearing Procedures.
(Amended by Ord. No. 170923, effective March 21, 1997.)
A. Any officer authorized by the City Council or by City Code may order a vehicle towed as provided in this Title.
1. Impoundment of a vehicle does not preclude issuance of a citation for violation of this Title.
2. Stolen vehicles may be towed from public or private property and stored at the expense of the vehicle owner.
B. The authority to establish procedures in this Title for the disposition of towed vehicles is authorized by Oregon law. Disposition of vehicles towed under authority of this Title must follow the procedures established by this Title.
C. If any person tows a vehicle from the public streets without authority under the City Code, the City Towing Coordinator may assess a civil penalty of up to $1,000 for each vehicle towed to be paid to the City Towing Coordinator and deposited to the City’s general fund.
16.30.200 Vehicle Towing.
16.30.210 When a Vehicle May be Towed.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 172788, effective November 13, 1998.) A vehicle may be towed and held at the expense of the owner or person entitled to possession thereof from:
A. Any public right-of-way, public park or other public place, when:
1. The vehicle is parked in violation of a temporary or permanent parking restriction;
2. The vehicle is parked unlawfully or in a manner that may be hazardous to traffic;
3. The vehicle is parked on City-owned or operated property without express City permission;
4. The vehicle was used in committing a traffic or parking violation for which an unserved warrant or citation is on file with the clerk of the district court;
5. The vehicle has been reported stolen;
6. The vehicle or its contents is to be used as evidence in traffic or criminal prosecutions;
7. The vehicle is in possession of a person taken into custody by a law enforcement agency;
8. The vehicle is parked in a space that is marked as reserved for disabled persons unless such vehicle conspicuously displays appropriate decals, insignia, or registration plates as required by state statutes;
9. The vehicle is parked in violation of any parking regulation;
10. The vehicle is an abandoned vehicle, as defined in 16.90.005; or
11. The vehicle is stored on the street in violation of 16.20.170.
B. Temporary and/or permanent parking restrictions may be enforced by tow 24 hours after placement.
C. Private property if:
1. The vehicle is parked or stopped without the permission of the person in control of such property; or
2. In violation this Title.
16.30.220 Towing Without Prior Notice.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165980 and 170912, effective Feb. 12, 1997.) Any authorized officer may, without prior notice, order a vehicle towed, when:
A. The vehicle is impeding or likely to impede the normal flow of vehicular or pedestrian traffic;
B. The vehicle is illegally parked in a conspicuously posted restricted space, zone, or traffic lane where parking is limited to designated classes of vehicles or is prohibited in excess of a designated time period, or during certain hours, or on designated days, or at any time and place the vehicle is interfering or reasonably likely to interfere with the intended use of such a space, zone, or traffic lane;
C. The vehicle is parked in front of a rural-type mailbox and has been cited within the previous 30 days for violation of Section 16.20.130 E;
D. The vehicle poses an immediate danger to the public safety;
E. The vehicle is illegally parked within 10 feet of a fire hydrant.
F. A police officer reasonably believes that the vehicle is stolen;
G. A police officer reasonably believes that the vehicle or its contents constitute evidence of any offense, if such towing is reasonably necessary to obtain or preserve such evidence;
H. The vehicle was in possession of a person taken into custody by a law enforcement officer and no other reasonable disposition of the vehicle is available;
I. The vehicle is parked or stopped in violation of 16.20.120 A and the vehicle alarm system disturbs, injures, or endangers, or is likely to disturb, injure, or endanger, the peace, quiet, comfort, repose, health, or safety of the public or any person; or
J. The vehicle is in the possession of a person arrested for any felony traffic offense, as defined by Oregon Revised Statutes.
K. A police officer reasonably believes that the vehicle’s operator has committed any of the following offenses:
1. Driving uninsured (ORS 806.010), or;
2. Driving while suspended or revoked (ORS 811.175 or ORS 811.182), or;
3. Operating a vehicle without a valid operator’s license (ORS 807.010) and the officer reasonably believes that the operator’s license has been expired for 120 days or more, or that the operator has not had a valid driver’s license within the previous 120 days.
16.30.225 Towing with 24 Hour or 72 Hour Notice.
(Added by Ordinance No. 166947; amended by Ordinance Nos. 170923 and 172788, effective November 13, 1998.)
A. A vehicle may be towed 24 hours after notice of intent to tow has been affixed to the vehicle if the vehicle is an abandoned vehicle which is an immediate threat to the public health or safety because of its condition.
B. A vehicle may be towed 72 hours after notice of intent to tow has been affixed to the vehicle if the vehicle is an abandoned vehicle; or
C. A vehicle may be towed 72 hours after notice of intent to tow has been affixed to the vehicle if the vehicle is in violation of 16.20.120 H or I or 16.20.170.
D. Notice shall be mailed after tow as provided in 16.30.320.
16.30.230 When Notice Required Before Towing.
(Repealed by Ordinance No. 172788, effective November 13, 1998.)
16.30.240 Towing upon Order of Circuit Court.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 173369, effective May 12, 1999.) Vehicles that have been used in the commission of a traffic or parking violation, for which an unserved warrant or citation is on file with the Circuit Court clerk, may be towed upon order of the Circuit Court.
16.30.300 Notice of Vehicle Tow.
16.30.310 Notice Prior to Tow.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 172788, effective November 13, 1998.)
A. Except where shorter notice is allowed by this title, notice for vehicles which require prior notice before towing must be provided by:
1. Affixing a tow warning to the vehicle at least 10 days prior to the tow; and
2. Mailing a notice to the registered owner(s) and any other persons who reasonably appear to have an interest in the vehicle within 48 hours, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays excluded, after the tow warning is affixed to the vehicle.
B. The tow warning and the mailed notice will state that:
1. The vehicle is parked in violation of City Code;
2. The City intends to tow and remove the vehicle if the violation is not corrected; and
3. A hearing is available to contest the validity of the intended tow, and the method of requesting a hearing, including the date by which a hearing may be requested.
C. If a timely request for hearing is received pursuant to Subsection 16.30.400, the vehicle will not be towed until the Tow Hearings Officer makes a determination.
16.30.320 Notice After Vehicle Tow.
A. After a vehicle has been towed pursuant to this Chapter, notice will be provided to the registered owner(s) and any other person(s) who reasonably appear to have an interest in the vehicle. Notice will be mailed to such persons within 48 hours after the tow of the vehicle, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays excluded, and will state:
1. That the vehicle has been towed;
2. The location of the vehicle and that it may be reclaimed only upon evidence that the claimant is the owner or person entitled to possession;
3. The address and telephone number of the person or facility that may be contacted for information on the charges that must be paid before the vehicle will be released and the procedures for obtaining the release of the vehicle;
4. That the vehicle and its contents are subject to a lien for the towing and storage charges; that if the vehicle is not claimed within 15 days after the mailing date of the notice, the vehicle and its contents will be subject to sale by the City or the towing and storage facility where the vehicle is located and that failure to reclaim the vehicle within such time will constitute a waiver of all interest in the vehicle; and
5. Unless notice of the availability of a hearing to contest the tow has been provided prior to towing as prescribed in Section 16.30.310, the notice will state that a hearing may be requested to contest the validity of the tow and will set forth the time in which a hearing must be requested and the method of requesting a hearing.
B. If a vehicle has been reclaimed prior to the mailing of the notice, no notice need be mailed or provided, but the person or persons reclaiming the vehicle must be provided with written notice of the opportunity for a hearing to contest the tow pursuant to Section 16.30.350.
C. In those circumstances in which it can reasonably be anticipated that mailing of notice may hinder or prevent the apprehension of a suspect in an ongoing criminal investigation, the mailing of notice may be delayed until such time as will not prejudice that investigation or apprehension.
16.30.340 Unidentifiable Vehicle.
No notice need be mailed pursuant to Subsections 16.30.310 or 16.30.320 when:
A. A vehicle does not display license plates or other identifying markings by which the registration or ownership of the vehicle can be determined, or;
B. When the identity of the owner of the vehicle is not available from the appropriate motor vehicle licensing and registration authority and when the identity and address of the owner and/or other persons with an interest in the vehicle cannot otherwise be reasonably determined.
16.30.350 Notice to Contest Tow When Vehicle Claimed.
Written notice of the opportunity to contest the validity of the tow of a vehicle, together with a statement of the time in which a hearing may be requested and the method of requesting a hearing, must be given to each person who seeks to redeem a vehicle which has been towed pursuant to this Chapter. This information will be made available by the tow company or other facility holding such vehicle.
16.30.400 Tow Hearing Procedure.
16.30.410 Request for Hearing.
(Amended by Ord. No. 170923, effective March 21, 1997.)
A. After a vehicle has been towed pursuant to subsection 16.30.220 or 16.30.225 and prior to towing pursuant to subsection 16.30.230, the owner(s) and any other persons who reasonably appear to have an interest in the vehicle are, upon timely application filed with the Tow Hearings Officer, entitled to request a hearing to contest the validity of the tow or intended tow of the vehicle.
1. In the case of a vehicle towed pursuant to Subsection 16.30.220 or 16.30.225, such application must be filed with and received by the Tow Hearings Officer not later than 10 days after the vehicle was towed.
2. In the case of a vehicle proposed to be towed pursuant to Subsection 16.30.230, such application must be filed with and received by the Tow Hearings Officer not later than 10 days after the affixing of the tow warning to the vehicle.
B. The Tow Hearings Officer may, for good cause shown, grant a request for hearing filed after the foregoing time requirements have expired. If the mailing of the towed vehicle notice was delayed pursuant to Subsection 16.30.310, the Tow Hearings Officer will grant a request for hearing received and filed within 10 days of the mailing date of the notice or 10 days of the date the vehicle was reclaimed, whichever first occurs.
C. The request for hearing must be in writing and will state the grounds upon which the person requesting the hearing believes the tow or proposed tow invalid, or, for any other reason, unjustified. The request for hearing will also contain such other information, relating to the purposes of this Chapter, as the Tow Hearings Officer may require.
D. The Tow Hearings Officer will set and conduct an administrative hearing on the matter within 14 days of receipt of a proper request filed pursuant to this Section. In all cases where a vehicle has been towed and not yet released, however, the Tow Hearings Officer will set and conduct the hearing within 72 hours, not including Saturdays, Sundays, or holidays, on receipt of the request.
16.30.420 Hearing Procedure.
A. The hearing shall afford a reasonable opportunity for the person(s) requesting it to demonstrate by the statements of witnesses and other evidence, that the tow and/or storage of the vehicle was or would be invalid, or for any other reason not justified.
B. The Tow Hearings Officer will make necessary rules and regulations regarding the conduct of such hearings, consistent with this Section.
16.30.430 When Tow Found Invalid.
If the Tow Hearings Officer finds the tow and/or storage was or would be invalid or not justified, the Tow Hearings Officer will order the vehicle:
A. Be immediately released if already towed. The owner(s) or any other person(s) who have an interest in the vehicle are not liable for the tow and/or storage charges and any money paid for tow and/or storage charges will be returned, as appropriate.
B. Not be towed if such vehicle is about to be towed.
16.30.440 When Tow Found Valid.
If the Tow Hearings Officer finds the towing and/or storage was or would be valid, the Tow Hearings Officer will order the vehicle, if still held, continue to be held until all tow and storage charges are paid.
If such vehicle is about to be towed, pursuant to Subsection 16.30.230, the Tow Hearings Officer will order such vehicle to be towed and impounded if the violation involving that vehicle has not been completely corrected.
The City will be responsible in all cases in which a hearing has been requested and held, and the tow and/or storage found to be valid, for those storage charges that have accrued from the date that the hearing was requested through the first available hearing date.
16.30.450 Hearing Administration.
A. The decision of the Tow Hearings Officer is a quasi-judicial decision and is final, and is not appealable to the City Council.
B. Any person who has a hearing scheduled pursuant to this Section and fails to appear at such hearing without good cause shown, as determined by the Tow Hearings Officer, will not be entitled to have such hearing rescheduled.
C. The owner(s) and any other person(s) who have an interest in the vehicle are only entitled to one hearing for each tow of that vehicle.
D. Owners of vehicles towed by order of the District Court pursuant to Subsection 16.30.240 are not entitled to a hearing pursuant to this Chapter.
E. The Code Hearings Officer, appointed pursuant to Title 22, will act as Tow Hearings Officer pursuant to this Chapter. Subject to the approval of the Commissioner In Charge, the Code Hearings Officer may, in writing, designate one or more persons to act as Tow Hearings Officer during the absence or unavailability of the Code Hearings Officer.
16.30.500 Fee Payments and Vehicle Release Procedure.
16.30.510 Towing and Storage Rates.
The towing and storage charges that are to be paid before release of a vehicle towed by authority of this Chapter, if towed by a private company at the request of a City officer or employee, will be the charges fixed by City contract for private towing and storage. If a vehicle is towed by City equipment and personnel, the charges will be fixed by a schedule approved by the Council.
16.30.520 Charges and Release of Vehicle.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165980; and 167222, Dec. 22 1993.)
A. Any private company that tows and stores any vehicle pursuant to this Chapter, shall have a lien on the vehicle, in accordance with ORS 87.152, for the just and reasonable charges for the tow and storage services performed. The company may retain possession of that vehicle, consistent with this Chapter, until towing and storage charges have been paid. Provided, however, the City shall pay all storage charges that accrue as a result of the hearings process.
B. If the required towing and storage charges have been paid, the vehicle must be immediately released to the person(s) entitled to lawful possession. A vehicle towed pursuant to Section 16.30.220 K shall be immediately released to the person(s) entitled to lawful possession upon proof of insurance and payment of towing, storage and payment of a $15.00 fee to the police agency. If towing and storage charges have not been paid, a vehicle will not be released, except upon order of the Towing Hearings Officer.
C. A vehicle towed pursuant to this Chapter may only be released to the owner, or to the person who was lawfully in possession or control of the vehicle at time it was towed, or to a person who purchased the vehicle from the owner and who produces written proof of ownership. In all cases, adequate evidence of the right to possession of the vehicle as determined by the City Towing Board of Review, must be presented prior to release of the vehicle.
16.30.530 When Tow Found Invalid.
A. The accrued towing and storage charges assessed under Section 16.30.520, will be waived by the Hearings Officer if the tow is found to be invalid or for any other reason not justified, after a hearing has been held pursuant to Section 16.30.400.
B. A person’s inability to pay the towing and storage charges, in and of itself, is not a sufficient basis for the waiving of such charges.
C. If the charges are owed to a private company, the City will pay them if, after a hearing, the tow is found to be invalid or for any other reason not justified and the charges have not previously been paid.
16.30.540 When Tow Found Valid.
If the Tow Hearings Officer finds the towing and/or storage was valid, the person entitled to possession of the vehicle will be responsible for all towing and storage charges except as provided for in 16.30.440.
16.30.550 Storage Charges at Completion of Hearing.
After the Tow Hearings Officer makes a public determination on a vehicle tow hearing, the vehicle must be picked up by the person entitled to possession within 24 hours to avoid further storage charges. If the vehicle is not claimed within this time period, it will not be released until the additionally accrued storage charges, if any, are paid.
16.30.600 Selling Abandoned Vehicles.
16.30.610 When a Vehicle May be Sold.
A. Whenever any vehicle is taken into custody pursuant to this Chapter, the vehicle will be held at the expense and risk of the owner or person lawfully entitled to possession.
B. At any time within 15 days after any such notice has been sent, as required in Section 16.30.300, the owner or person lawfully entitled to possession of any such vehicle may claim the vehicle by:
1. presenting satisfactory proof of ownership or right to possession; and
2. paying the charges and expenses, if any, incurred in the preservation and custody of the vehicle.
16.30.620 Sale of Vehicles.
(Amended by Ord. No. 166575, June 2, 1993.)
A. As often as is necessary, the City Traffic Engineer will be provided with a list of all unclaimed vehicles which have been towed and stored by or for the City which:
1. Have been in storage 15 days or longer and have been appraised at a value of $750 or less, or;
2. Have been in storage for 30 days or longer.
B. The City Traffic Engineer will, as soon as convenient, authorize the sale of, or sell such vehicles in accordance with the provisions of any contract authorized by the Council. If there is no such contract, the City Traffic Engineer will sell such vehicle at public auction.
1. If a vehicle is sold in accordance with the provisions of a contract, the Director of the City Traffic Engineer will ensure, at the time of sale, a certificate of sale in substantially the following form is issued to the purchaser:
“CERTIFICATE OF SALE
This is to certify that under the provisions of the Traffic Regulations of the City, I did on the . . . . day of . . . . . , 19 . . . sell to . . . . . . . . . . . . . of . . . . . . . . . . . . . for the consideration . . . . . . . . . . Dollars ($ . . . .) the following described personal property:
(Brief description of property)
Dated this . . . . day of . . . . ., 19 . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
City Traffic Engineer
NOTE: The City of Portland assumes no responsibility as to condition or Title of the above described property. In case this sale is for any reason invalid, the liability of the City is limited to return of the purchase price.”
2. If the City Traffic Engineer decides to sell any vehicles held pursuant to this Chapter at public auction, notice of the time and place of such auction sale must be given by publication in the official paper of the City for a period of at least 10 days prior to the date of such sale. Such vehicles must be sold to the highest bidder for cash.
C. The proceeds of such sale will be first applied to payment of the cost of such sale and expense incurred in the preservation and custody of such vehicles and the balance, if any, will be credited to the Transportation Operating Fund of the City.
16.30.700 Moving Vehicles For Street and Utility Maintenance and For Emergencies.
16.30.710 Authority To Move Vehicles.
This Section applies when:
A. The City has restricted parking in an area on a temporary basis and the signs, barriers, or other notice have been removed by someone other than the owner of the vehicle to be towed so that the vehicle owner has not had notice of the parking restriction; or
B. There is an emergency and a legally parked vehicle must be moved in order to attend to the emergency.
16.30.720 When a Vehicle May be Moved.
Any vehicle parked on a public right-of-way may be towed according to the provisions of 16.30.730 upon the order of an authorized City official, without prior notice to the owner of the vehicle, when removal of the vehicle is required:
A. To provide immediate access for street or utility repair;
B. To facilitate the operations by fire, police, ambulance, or other emergency personnel or vehicles;
C. To provide safe clearance for special events such as parades, marches, or motorcades; or
D. To provide clear access for areas specifically reserved by City permit.
16.30.730 Manner of Moving Vehicle.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165594, July 8, 1992.)
A. The City officer or employee ordering a vehicle to be towed may direct that the vehicle be towed and parked at any legal parking space on the public right-of-way at any storage facility designated by the City.
B. The City officer or employee is not limited to the City Tow Contract rotation and may enter into agreements with any towing or other firm for removing vehicles.
C. The City officer or employee ordering a vehicle to be towed pursuant to this Section will notify the Police Bureau of the location of the towed vehicle within 1 hour after the completion of the tow.
D. The costs of towing and storing the vehicle for a period not to exceed 72 hours will be paid by:
1. The City in the case of a tow requested by a City officer or employee, or
2. The permittee in the case of a tow requested by a permittee.
E. The owner of the vehicle may be charged a reasonable storage fee for the storage of the vehicle if the vehicle is towed and stored at a private storage facility and the owner fails to remove the vehicle from the private storage facility within 72 hours after the vehicle was towed.
16.30.800 Regulation of Towers.
16.30.810 Solicitation of Towing Business at Accidents Prohibited.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165594, July 8, 1992.)
A. Except as otherwise provided herein, no person with a direct or indirect interest in any business engaged in the towing or recovery of motor vehicles for a profit nor any person employed by such a business nor any person receiving any fee or remuneration from such a business, may solicit or attempt to solicit towing business at or near the site of a motor vehicle accident.
B. The prohibitions set forth in Subsection A do not prohibit any person from providing or offering to provide towing services if:
1. The services are provided without charge, fee, or other remuneration;
2. The services are provided or offered at the direction or request of a police officer;
3. The services have been requested by the owner, operator, or other person in charge of the vehicle by radio or telephone communication or otherwise at a location other than the accident site; or
4. Allowed by government contract or franchise.
C. “Solicit or attempt to solicit towing business” means to offer or attempt to offer motor vehicle towing or recovery services for a fee or remuneration.
D. Violation of subsection A of this section is a traffic infraction, punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.
16.30.820 Obstructing Traffic.
A. The operator of a wrecker or tow truck may stop a vehicle where it obstructs traffic when the operator:
1. Is engaged in the recovery of another vehicle; and
2. Takes the precautionary measures required by this Section.
B. A person commits the offense of failure to take precautions when obstructing traffic with a tow vehicle or wrecker engaged in the recovery of another vehicle if the operator does not do all of the following:
1. Determine that the recovery operation requires stopping the tow or recovery vehicle in the roadway; and
2. Activate tow vehicle warning lights described in ORS 816.280.
16.30.830 Failure to Remove Injurious Substance.
A person commits the offense of tow vehicle operator failure to remove injurious substance if the person is operating a tow vehicle that is removing a wrecked or damaged vehicle from a roadway and the person fails to remove any glass or other injurious substance dropped upon the roadway from such vehicle.
Chapter 16.40
TAXICAB REGULATIONS
(Added by Ord. No. 165947
Oct. 28, 1992.)
Sections:
16.40.001 Purpose.
16.40.010 Definitions.
16.40.100 Administrative Procedures.
16.40.110 Taxicab Board of Review.
16.40.120 Regulations.
16.40.130 Public Hearings.
16.40.140 Financial and Operating Data.
16.40.150 Reports to the Supervisor.
16.40.200 Permits and Applications.
16.40.210 Taxicab Company Permit Required.
16.40.215 Taxicab Company Permit Application and Renewal.
16.40.220 Taxicab Company Permit Fee.
16.40.225 Limit on Number of Taxicabs Operated by Taxicab Company.
16.40.230 Taxicab Zone Permits.
16.40.235 Taxicab Driver’s Permits Required.
16.40.240 Taxicab Driver’s Permit Application and Renewal.
16.40.245 Denial of Taxicab Driver’s Permit.
16.40.250 Driver’s Permit to be Posted.
16.40.255 Permit Suspension and Revocation.
16.40.260 Appeals.
16.40.300 Rates and Payment for Services.
16.40.310 Rates.
16.40.500 Service Quality.
16.40.510 Minimum Standards for Taxicab Service Companies.
16.40.520 Identification.
16.40.530 Complaints.
16.40.540 Items Lost and Found.
16.40.550 Conduct of Drivers.
16.40.700 Public Protection and Safety.
16.40.710 Equipment.
16.40.720 Safety Inspections and Certification.
16.40.730 Insurance.
16.40.800 Criminal Provisions.
16.40.810 Criminal Penalties.
16.40.900 Permits for Limited Passenger Transportation Service.
16.40.910 Application for Permit.
16.40.920 Conditions of Limited Passenger Transportation Permits.
16.40.930 Authority of the Taxicab Board of Review.
16.40.940 Fees.
16.40.950 No Effect on Taxicab Regulations.
16.40.001 Purpose.
A. The purpose of this Chapter is to provide for the safe, fair and efficient operation of taxicabs. The taxicab industry should be allowed to operate without unnecessary restraint. However, because taxicabs constitute an essential part of the City’s transportation system and because transportation so fundamentally affects the City’s well being and that of its citizens, some regulation is necessary to insure that the public safety is protected, the public need provided, and the public convenience promoted. It is not the purpose of this Chapter to displace competition with regulation or monopoly public service.
B. The provisions contained herein should be applied and enforced in such a manner as to require the taxicab industry to:
1. Regulate itself, under City supervision;
2. Promote innovation and adaptation to changing needs; and,
3. Allow competition and response to the economic forces of the market place, so long as the public interest is served thereby.
16.40.010 Definitions.
A. “Taxicab” means any motor vehicle which carries passengers for hire where the destination and route traveled may be controlled by a passenger and the fare is calculated on the basis of an initial fee, distance traveled, waiting time, or any combination thereof, and which is duly permitted by the City of Portland under the terms of Chapter 16.40.
B. “Operate” means driving a taxicab, using a taxicab to conduct a business, receiving money from the use of a taxicab, or causing or allowing another person to do the same.
C. “Taxicab company” means any entity operating taxicabs other than as a driver and regardless of whether the vehicles so operated are owned by the company, or leased, or owned by individual members of the company, and who is duly authorized by the City of Portland as a taxicab company under the terms of Chapter 16.40.
D. “Taxicab driver” means any person operating taxicabs as a driver for any permitted taxicab company regardless of whether the vehicles so operated are owned by the company, or leased, or owned by individual members of the company, and who is duly authorized by the City of Portland as a taxicab driver under the terms of Chapter 16.40.
E. “Taximeter” means a mechanical or electronic device which calculates and displays a fare based on an initial fee, distance traveled, waiting time, or any combination thereof.
F. “Waiting time” means time during which the taxicab is under the direction of a passenger and the taxicab is not moving.
G. “Supervisor” means the Taxicab Regulation Supervisor or a duly authorized agent.
H. “Board” means the Taxicab Board of Review.
16.40.100 Administrative Procedures.
16.40.110 Taxicab Board of Review.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 171873, effective December 17, 1997.)
A. 1. There is hereby created a Taxicab Board of Review. The Board shall consist of seven voting members, including a Chairperson, and two nonvoting members. The members of the Board shall be appointed by the Commissioner In Charge of the Bureau of Licenses and confirmed by the City Council. Voting members shall serve for a period of two years, while nonvoting members shall serve for a period of one year. Vacancies on the Board shall be filled according to the appointment procedures described herein. A quorum of the Board shall consist of four voting members.
2. The voting members shall consist of:
a. Three members of the general public with no affiliation with any taxicab company;
b. The Manager of the Bureau of Licenses or an appropriate designee, the Traffic Engineer or an appropriate designee or alternate designee; and
c. Two other persons representing government agencies regulating or involving taxicab services.
3. Two nonvoting members shall be representatives of taxicab companies with current valid City taxicab company permits.
4. All members of the Board shall serve without pay, except that they may receive their regular salary during the time spent on Board matters.
5. If any member of the Board is absent from more than three regularly scheduled Board meetings during a single calendar year, without having notified the Chair in advance of such absence, such member shall be deemed to have resigned from the Board. The position shall thereafter be vacant and subject to appointment.
B. The Supervisor shall serve as staff and provide appropriate assistance for the Board.
C. The Board shall establish its own rules and procedures for all matters for consideration or actions of the Board.
D. The Board shall have such duties and responsibilities as are set forth in this Chapter.
16.40.120 Regulations.
The Board shall have the power to adopt and enforce regulations interpreting and applying this Chapter, consistent with the purposes set forth in Section 16.40.001. Prior to adopting such regulations, the Board shall give public notice of the intent to adopt regulations, provide copies of the proposed regulations to interested parties, and conduct a public hearing on the proposed regulations. Public notice shall be given when regulations have been finally adopted. Copies of current regulations shall be made available to the public upon request. It is a violation of this Chapter to violate regulations duly adopted by the Board.
16.40.130 Public Hearings.
The Board or the City Council, as appropriate, shall preside over all public hearings held pursuant to this Chapter. The Board shall have the power to establish and limit the matters to be considered at the hearing, to prescribe procedures for the conduct of the hearings, to administer oaths and take evidence, and to preserve order. Technical rules of evidence shall not be applied in such hearings. Notice of all hearings shall be given to the public and all taxicab companies. The Board shall make written findings to support all decisions.
16.40.140 Financial and Operating Data.
A. The Supervisor may require a taxicab company to report financial and operating data, in such form and at such times as the Supervisor requires. The taxicab company shall compile the necessary data and submit reports to the Supervisor. A taxicab driver shall not fail to timely submit complete records to the taxicab company. A taxicab company shall not fail to timely submit required reports to the Supervisor.
B. Except as otherwise required by law, information submitted to the Supervisor shall be used within the City government only. Such information shall not be released to the public except in aggregate form, identifying only the taxicab companies and not the individual drivers.
C. After 72 hours prior notice, the Supervisor shall have the right to examine any and all books, records, or files relating to the operation of taxicabs or any person holding a permit issued pursuant to this Chapter.
16.40.150 Reports to the Supervisor.
A. Every taxicab company shall immediately report to the Supervisor as soon as it becomes known the occurrence of any of the following events:
1. The arrest or conviction for any criminal offense of any officer or principal managing employee of the taxicab company involving the operation of the taxicab company;
2. Any taxicab accident required to be reported to the State of Oregon involving a vehicle driven for the taxicab company;
3. The filing of a lawsuit against or on behalf of the taxicab company related to the operation of the taxicab company;
4. The initiation of bankruptcy proceedings or corporate or partnership dissolution by the taxicab company; or,
5. Any information required to be disclosed by Subsection 16.40.150.B that comes to the taxicab company’s attention.
B. Every taxicab driver shall immediately report to the Supervisor, and any taxicab company for whom he drives, the occurrence of the following:
1. Any arrest, charge, or conviction of the taxicab driver for any criminal offense, or any traffic violation, that occurs during, or arises out of, the taxicab driver’s operation of a taxicab;
2. Any arrest, charge or conviction of the taxicab driver for any criminal offense involving theft, robbery, burglary, assault, sex crimes, drugs, prostitution, or any related offense;
3. Any vehicle accident required to be reported to the State of Oregon involving any taxicab operated by the taxicab driver; or,
4. Any restriction, suspension or revocation of the taxicab driver’s motor vehicle driver’s license.
16.40.200 Permits and Applications.
16.40.210 Taxicab Company Permit Required.
A. No person shall conduct business as a taxicab company without a current taxicab company permit to do business issued by the City under this Chapter.
B. Any person lawfully doing business as a taxicab company on October 1, 1992 may continue to do so, regardless of whether such person is in compliance with the minimum standards established by Section 16.40.510.D, upon payment of the taxicab company permit fees established in Section 16.40.220 and upon compliance with all other provisions of this Chapter. A person lawfully doing business as a taxicab company on the effective date of any amendments to Section 16.40.510.D may continue to do so regardless of whether such person is in compliance with the minimum standards of that Section, so long as that person is in compliance with all other provisions of this Chapter. Such person may not operate any taxicabs in excess of the number permitted prior to the adoption of this Section, except as authorized pursuant to Section 16.40.225.
C. No taxicab company permit shall be assigned, transferred, merged, leased or mortgaged without the prior consent of the City as expressed by ordinance. The City’s granting of consent in one instance shall not render unnecessary any subsequent consent in any other instance. Within ten (10) days after execution and delivery of any instrument so consented to by the City, Grantee shall file with the Auditor an executed counterpart or certified copy thereof.
D. In determining whether the City will consent to any assignment, transfer, merger, lease or mortgage, the City may inquire into the technical, legal, and financial qualifications of the prospective party. The taxicab company shall assist the City in any such inquiry. The City may impose conditions relating to the technical, legal, and financial qualifications of the prospective party.
E. Nothing contained in this Section shall be deemed to prohibit the mortgage, pledge, or assignment of tangible assets of a taxicab company for the purpose of financing the acquisition of equipment for the operation of a taxicab company without the City’s consent. Taxicab companies may also sell tangible assets in the ordinary conduct of business without the consent of the City.
16.40.215 Taxicab Company Permit Application and Renewal.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 171873, effective December 17, 1997.)
A. An applicant for a permit to do business as a taxicab company shall submit to the Supervisor an application form containing such information as the Supervisor may require. The City of Portland will accept new taxicab company applications only during the same period of time as established by the Board for accepting requests from permitted taxicab companies for authorization to operate additional taxicabs. The application shall include a non-refundable fee of one hundred dollars ($100.00).
B. The Supervisor shall forward the application to the Board, together with a recommendation based upon the requirements of this Chapter, any regulations established by the Board pursuant to Section 16.40.110, and any additional information deemed appropriate by the Supervisor. The Board shall review and consider the Supervisor’s recommendation. The Board shall forward its recommendation to the City Council. The Supervisor shall set, through the Auditor’s Office, a Council hearing date on the Board’s recommendation and the application. The Council shall conduct a public hearing regarding the Board’s recommendation on the application after the date on which the Board has made its final decisions on any requests by existing taxicab companies for authorization to operate additional taxicabs. At such hearing, the officers or major stockholders in the applicant company may be directed personally to appear before the Council.
C. The Council shall consider the following factors in determining whether or not to grant an application for a taxicab company permit:
1. The current status of the public transportation system in the City, including, but not limited to;
a. The current and future ability of the public transportation system to provide the timely and effective movement of persons; and,
b. The ratio of population within the City of Portland to the number of taxicabs currently in operation;
2. The demonstrated need for additional taxicab service in the City that is not accomplished by existing companies, as shown by the applicant;
3. The present utilization patterns of taxicabs currently in operation;
4. The interests of the applicant in establishing a local business to legitimately serve the citizens of this City; and,
5. The extent to which granting the application will serve the purposes of this Chapter, as set out in Section 16.40.001.
D. The Council shall issue a taxicab company permit to the applicant if, after a hearing, the Council finds:
1. That the applicant has established both fitness and ability to comply with the requirements of this Chapter;
2. After consideration of the factors listed in Subsection 16.40.215.C, that the interests of the City will be served thereby; and,
3. That the applicant has sufficient financial resources to be able to meet the minimum standards established by Section 16.40.510.
4. The permit may contain such terms or conditions as the Council deems appropriate. The permit shall establish the number of vehicles that may be operated as taxicabs, as established by the Council. Violation of these terms or conditions may result in revocation of the permit.
E. The Supervisor shall assist the Board and the Council in establishing such further standards as the Board or the Council deems appropriate, in addition to those listed in Subsection 16.40.215.C, for the issuance of taxicab company permits, the number of taxicabs to be approved, and the imposition of special terms and conditions.
16.40.220 Taxicab Company Permit Fee.
A. Each person operating a taxicab company subject to the terms of this Chapter shall pay an annual taxicab company permit fee equal to $100 times the maximum number of vehicles to be operated as taxicabs by the company as fixed by the Council. Upon payment of the correct permit fee by the taxicab company, the Supervisor shall cause a permit to be issued. Fees paid under this subsection shall be deposited into the City’s General Fund, and used for the administration and enforcement of Chapter 16.40.
B. Taxicab company permits shall expire on December 31st of each year. The permit shall be renewed without a hearing, upon payment of the annual fee provided for in Subsection 16.40.220.A, unless otherwise revoked under this Chapter.
16.40.225 Limit on Number of Taxicabs Operated by Taxicab Company.
A. No taxicab company may operate more taxicabs than authorized by the Council, unless additional taxicabs have been authorized by the Board pursuant to this Section. No vehicle may be operated as a taxicab unless it is listed on the register of vehicles operated by a taxicab company as maintained on the company’s official records.
B. A taxicab company may apply to the Board for an increase of the number of taxicabs which the company may operate. The application shall be in a form established by the Board. After a public hearing, the Board may grant the application in whole or in part upon finding that the purposes of this Chapter and the public interest will be served.
C. The Board may, after notice to the company concerned and a public hearing if requested by the company affected, reduce the maximum number of taxicabs that may be operated by a taxicab company upon finding that the company has failed to operate the vehicle as a taxicab.
D. The Board shall establish, pursuant to Section 16.40.110:
1. Regulations further defining circumstances constituting the failure to operate a taxicab;
2. Regulations providing for the identification of taxicabs which a taxicab company has been authorized to operate within the City, such as by medallion, stickers, or decals displayed on or within each authorized taxicab; and,
3. Regulations defining standards for the approval of request for an increase in the number of taxicabs to be operated.
E. The effect of any order of the Board, authorizing either an increase or a decrease in the number of taxicabs operated by a taxicab company, shall be automatically stayed if a timely appeal of such order is filed pursuant to the procedure of Section 16.40.260.
16.40.230 Taxicab Zone Permits.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 173627, effective August 4, 1999.)
A. No person shall stop or park in a Taxicab Zone without having paid the current annual taxicab company permit fee pursuant to PCC 16.40.220.
B. Any taxicab company desiring to stop or park in a Taxicab Zone shall, on or before November 1 of each year, file an application with the Bureau of Transportation System Management. Any taxicab company with a current taxicab company permit may park in a taxicab zone upon paying the nonrefundable taxicab zone fees.
C. On or before December 1 of each year, the Bureau of Transportation System Management shall inform each applicant for a Taxicab Zone Permit of the total permit fees to be paid. Each applicant shall pay the required fees on or before December 31 of that year, or its application for a Taxicab Zone Permit shall be denied.
D. If the number of taxicab zones changes during the permit year, the Bureau of Transportation System Management shall apply the following procedures:
1. If the number of taxicab zones is larger, no additional permit fees shall be paid for the remainder of the year; or
2. If the number of taxicab zones is smaller, the permit holder shall be allowed a credit equal to the difference between the old fee and the adjusted fee, prorated by the number of full months remaining in the year. The permit holder may apply these credits against the Taxicab Zone Permit fee for the next succeeding year, but in no event shall fees be refunded.
3. If the location of a taxicab zone is changed, this Subsection shall not apply and the fees paid shall not be effected.
16.40.235 Taxicab Driver’s Permits Required.
A. No person shall drive or allow another person to drive a taxicab without a valid motor vehicle driver’s license, issued by the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles or an equivalent government agency, together with any endorsements necessary to operate a taxicab, and a taxicab driver’s permit issued under this Chapter.
B. Taxicab driver’s permits shall be valid for no more than 1 year and all such permits shall expire on December 31 of each year.
16.40.240 Taxicab Driver’s Permit Application and Renewal.
A. An applicant for a taxicab driver’s permit shall submit to the Supervisor an application form containing such information as the Supervisor may require, two passport-size photographs and a nonrefundable fee of $35. The applicant shall submit to fingerprinting if requested to do so.
B. Except as provided in Section 16.40.245, a taxicab driver’s permit shall be renewed upon the payment of a renewal fee of $25 on or before December 1 of each year. If any of the information contained in the application changes, the applicant or taxicab company shall promptly report the change to the Supervisor.
C. Fees paid under this subsection shall be deposited into the City’s General Fund, and used for the administration and enforcement of Chapter 16.40.
16.40.245 Denial of Taxicab Driver’s Permit.
A. No taxicab driver’s permit shall be issued or renewed to any person if the Supervisor determines, after a review of that person’s traffic and criminal record and any other information the supervisor deems pertinent, that the public safety would not be served by the issuance or renewal of a permit to that person. However, the Supervisor may not deny a taxicab driver’s permit under this Section, except for cause specified in regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16.40.120.
16.40.250 Driver’s Permit to be Posted.
A. Upon receipt of the application materials specified in 16.40.235, the Supervisor shall issue to the applicant a temporary taxicab driver’s permit, valid for 30 days after date of issuance. The permit shall prominently display the words, “TEMPORARY DRIVER’S PERMIT. NOT VALID AFTER ...,” followed by the expiration date of the permit in number of the same size. The temporary driver’s permit shall be posted in the manner specified in Subsection 16.40.250.B, and shall be surrendered if the taxicab driver’s permit is denied.
B. When a taxicab driver’s permit has been granted, and after any temporary permit surrendered, the Supervisor shall furnish to the taxicab driver a printed card containing the permit number and the taxicab driver’s name, date of birth, sex, height, weight, and photograph. This card shall be posted in a prominent place within the passenger compartment of any taxicab being driven by the taxicab driver, and shall be shown to any passenger, police officer, or the Supervisor or his agent upon request.
C. No person shall drive or allow any person to:
1. Drive any taxicab without a valid permit card; or,
2. Drive with the permit card of another taxicab driver displayed in accordance with this Section.
D. Upon presentation of convincing evidence that a taxicab driver’s permit has been lost or destroyed and payment of a replacement fee of $10, the Supervisor shall issue a replacement permit.
16.40.255 Permit Suspension, Revocation, and Civil Penalties.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 171759, effective November 12, 1997.)
A. Any permit issued under this Chapter may be revoked or suspended by the Supervisor if the Supervisor finds, based upon investigation, reasonable grounds to believe that:
1. The provisions of this Chapter or regulations adopted hereunder have been violated;
2. Any statement contained in the application for such permit or license is false;
3. The suspension or revocation is necessary to protect the public safety generally or the safety of the taxicab-riding public in particular; or
4. The revocation or suspension is otherwise authorized by this Chapter.
B. Any suspension or revocation pursuant to this Section shall be in writing, setting forth the reasons therefor and the right of appeal pursuant to Section 16.40.260.
C. Except as provided below, any suspension or revocation shall be effective 10 days after mailing a copy thereof by first class United States mail addressed to the taxicab company or taxicab driver at the business or residence address shown on the permit application or renewal.
D. Notwithstanding Subsection 16.40.255.C, a suspension or revocation may be made effective immediately if the Supervisor finds reasonable grounds to believe that:
1. A person holding a taxicab driver’s permit is not covered by liability insurance required by Section 16.40.730; or,
2. Continued operation by the taxicab company or taxicab driver would cause, or is likely to cause, imminent danger to the public health, safety, or morals.
E. The Supervisor may assess a civil penalty in an amount of up to $500 per day or per occurrence against any person found to be in violation of Chapter 16.40 or any regulation or order of the Taxicab Board of Review. The civil penalty, payable to the City of Portland, shall be submitted to the City Taxicab Supervisor and deposited to the City’s General fund. In assessing a civil penalty against a taxicab company or taxicab driver the Supervisor may assess civil penalties in lieu of a suspension, and may provide that if the specified civil penalty is paid in full, within the time and on the terms and conditions specified, the suspension shall be waived.
F. In calculating the amount of any civil penalty to be assessed under this Section, the Supervisor shall consider:
1. The extent and nature of the person’s involvement in the violation;
2. The benefits, economic, financial, or otherwise, accruing or likely to accrue as a result of the violations;
3. Whether the violations were repeated and continuous, or isolated and temporary;
4. The magnitude and seriousness of the violation;
5. The City’s costs of investigating the violation and correcting or attempting to correct the violation;
6. Whether the facts underlying the violation have been considered in a previous disciplinary proceeding; and,
7. Any other factors the Supervisor deems to be relevant.
G. If a suspension, revocation, or civil penalty in lieu of suspension is appealed to the hearing officer pursuant to Subsection 16.40.260.A, such action of the Supervisor shall be stayed, pending the outcome of such appeal, in all cases except a suspension or revocation made immediately effective pursuant to Subsection 16.40.255.D.
16.40.260 Appeals.
(Amended by Ordinance Nos. 171759 and 173369, effective May 12, 1999.)
A. Appeals to the Code Hearings Officer, pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 22.10 of this Code, may be made by any person assessed a civil penalty for violating any provision of Chapter 16.40 or any regulation or order of the Taxicab Board of Review, including any person operating as a taxicab company or driver without a taxicab company or driver permit, or any taxicab company, taxicab driver, or applicant for a taxicab driver permit:
1. Whose application for a taxicab driver’s permit or renewal of a taxicab company or driver’s permit has been denied by the Supervisor;
2. Whose permit has been revoked or suspended by the Supervisor;
3. Who has been directed to pay a civil penalty in lieu of suspension by the Supervisor; or
4. If the Supervisor has suspended the company’s authority to operate any vehicle under its permit, when enforcing regulations adopted by the Taxicab Board of Review.
B. Any person aggrieved by a decision of the Board, pursuant to Section 16.40.225, regarding the number of taxicabs a taxicab company may operate, or adopting regulations pursuant to Section 16.40.120, may appeal such action to Council as follows:
1. A person appealing the Board’s action shall, within 10 days of such action, file a written notice of appeal with the City Auditor and provide a copy of such notice to the Supervisor.
2. The City Auditor shall fix the time for the appeal to be heard by the City Council, place the hearing of the appeal upon the calendar of the Council, and notify the appellant and the Supervisor of the time fixed no less than 5 days prior to that time.
3. The appellant shall be entitled to appear personally and by counsel and to present such facts and arguments as may tend to support his appeal.
4. The Supervisor shall be present at the hearing, representing the Board, and if requested by the Council, shall explain the reasons for and present facts and arguments in support of the act appealed from.
5. The Council shall take such action upon the appeal as it sees fit and such action by the Council shall be final.
6. The action of the Board shall be stayed pending the outcome of an appeal properly filed pursuant to this Subsection.
16.40.300 Rates and Payment for Services.
16.40.310 Rates.
(Amended by Ord. No. 170221, June 5, 1996.)
A. Every taxicab company shall file with the Supervisor a schedule of rates to be charged for the services of taxicabs it operates.
B. The rate schedule filed with the Supervisor may contain special rates for zone fares, ride sharing, taxi pooling, jitney service, fixed route service, or any other special services offered by the company.
1. Each rate schedule shall also include a meter-based fare that shall not exceed the maximum fare established in Subsection 16.40.310.C of this Section.
2. The fare schedule shall also require that the passenger or passengers shall pay an airport gate fee not to exceed $1.50 for trips originating at the Portland International airport.
C. The following schedule of rates shall be the maximum fare which shall be charged and collected for the transportation of passengers in taxicabs for trips within the City and within 3 airline miles from the City limits:
1. An initial charge of $2.50, for which one passenger shall be entitled to transportation for a distance not to exceed 1/15 mile or fraction thereof, and/or waiting time at a rate of $20 per hour or proportionate fraction thereof;
2. Subsequent to the initial charge provided for in Subsection 16.40.310.C.1, the maximum rate shall be 10 cents for each 1/15 mile or fraction thereof, and waiting time subsequent to the initial charge provided in Subsection 16.40.310.C.1 shall be at the rate of $20 per hour or proportionate fraction thereof; and,
3. For each extra passenger, $1.00 additional charge.
D. Except as provided in Subsections 16.40.310.B.1 and 16.40.310.B.2 or as otherwise specified in the rate schedule, where passengers board or leave the cab at different points, the last person leaving the cab is responsible for the entire fare. Passengers may make whatever arrangements for payment of the fare between themselves that they desire. One flag drop shall be made at the beginning of the trip but not again until all passengers have been delivered to their respective destinations.
E. Where a passenger is being transported, no extra charge is to be made for transporting any items belonging to that passenger, including personal luggage and aids necessary for travel by disabled persons, if those items fit within the interior of the taxicab, including the trunk, each item can be carried by a single person, and all such items can be carried by the passenger or passengers and the driver in a single trip to the taxicab.
F. No charge is to be made for time lost or distance traveled while the taxicab is disabled. No charge is to be made for traveling empty while en route to pick up a passenger, unless the person requesting the taxicab refuses to hire it after it arrives, in which case an amount equal to the minimum charge on file as specified in Subsection 16.40.310.C.1 of this Section may be made.
G. A taxicab company may make written contractual arrangements to charge rates other than those specified in the filed rate schedules, provided that these contracts not be made effective prior to filing with the Supervisor in the same manner as prescribed for rate schedules.
H. A clear and complete summary of the rate schedule filed with the Supervisor, pursuant to Section 16.40.310.A, shall be printed on a rate card to be posted in a conspicuous place in the passenger compartment of every taxicab, and a summary of the meter rate in a form approved by the Supervisor shall be placed in a manner to be visible from the outside of every taxicab. The form of the rate summaries shall be subject to the review and approval of the Supervisor prior to their being posted. When a change of rate schedule is filed with the Supervisor, the taximeter, rate card, and rates posted shall be converted for every taxicab as soon as practicable. The rates posted shall not vary from those used in the taximeter in any taxicab in service.
I. No person shall charge, or cause or allow any person to charge any fare other than the applicable fare from rate schedules posted on the taxicab or from contracts approved by the Supervisor.
J. It is unlawful for any person to refuse or fail to pay the applicable fare for a taxicab after hiring or requesting that taxicab. In the event of a dispute over a fare, the passenger shall pay the fare demanded by the driver. The driver shall give the passenger a receipt noting the amount of the fare and a description of the trip. The passenger may apply for a refund of any overcharge and ask that the driver be disciplined.
16.40.500 Service Quality.
16.40.510 Minimum Standards for Taxicab Service Companies.
Any taxicab company operating under permit to do business issued under this Chapter, shall comply with the following minimum standards:
A. An office open and staffed for a minimum of 8 hours a day, 5 days a week.
B. A dispatch system in operation 24 hours each day capable of providing reasonably prompt service in response to requests received by telephone.
C. Facilities and personnel sufficient to insure that every taxicab operated by the company complies with the requirements of this Chapter.
D. Not less than 15 taxicabs, with two thirds of the fleet to be operational at all times, to provide service on a City-wide basis in accordance with the Supervisor’s regulations adopted pursuant to Section 16.40.120.
E. Insurance policies in force sufficient to meet the requirements of Section 16.40.730 and to protect the company to the same limits of liability.
F. A taxicab company shall not refuse to respond to any request for taxicab service received from a location within the City.
G. Each driver shall maintain a log in which a record of every trip shall be kept, in a form approved by the Supervisor. The taxicab company shall maintain the log for at least 1 year after the last entry therein.
16.40.520 Identification.
Every taxicab shall prominently display on the outside of the vehicle, on both sides, the full name of the taxicab company, the cab number, the telephone number of that company where service can be requested, and the word “taxi” or “cab.” Every taxicab shall be painted in the colors of that company. No two taxicab companies shall have the same colors. The colors of taxicab companies shall be subject to the approval of the Board.
16.40.530 Complaints.
A. Every taxicab shall have posted in a prominent place within the passenger compartment the following notice: “The driver of this taxicab is required by the Portland City Code to give a receipt for services provided to any passenger who requests one. If you have a complaint about a taxicab, contact the taxicab company (name, address, phone number) or the Taxicab Regulation Supervisor(mailing address), (phone number).” The size, shape, color, type of material, size of characters, location of the notice, or other relevant factors shall be subject to the Supervisor’s approval.
B. The Supervisor shall have the power to investigate any and all complaints concerning possible violations of this Chapter or regulations adopted hereunder.
16.40.540 Items Lost and Found.
Taxicab drivers shall examine their cabs at the end of each shift and turn over any items left by a passenger within the cab to the taxicab company. The taxicab company shall maintain a written record of all items turned over to it. This record shall contain a description of the item, the date it was turned in, the cab in which it was found, and the driver who turned in the item. The item shall be examined and the owner identified and notified, if possible. If the item is claimed, a record shall be made of the name and address of the claimant. No item shall be disposed of, other than by return to its owner, within 90 days of the date it is turned in, and if disposed of a record must be made of its disposition.
16.40.550 Conduct of Drivers.
No taxicab driver shall:
A. Allow another person to use his driver’s permit;
B. Operate any taxicab while consuming, or while under the influence of alcohol, or in a careless or reckless manner or in a manner contrary to the laws of this City or the State of Oregon;
C. Operate any taxicab while consuming, or while under the influence of drugs, unless such drugs are available commercially over the counter, or are being taken pursuant to a doctor’s prescription, and, in any case, such drug usage does not impair the driver’s ability to operate the taxicab;
D. Use a taxicab in the commission of any crime;
E. Use profane or obscene language offensive to the passenger while operating a taxicab;
F. Use tobacco without the consent of the passenger;
G. Charge a fare higher than that authorized by this Chapter for passenger transportation or defraud a passenger in any way;
H. Be discourteous to a passenger;
I. Drive a passenger to his destination by any other than the most direct and safe route, unless requested to do so by the passenger;
J. Refuse to transport to his requested destination any passenger of proper demeanor who requests services or is assigned by a taxicab service company when the taxicab is not already in service, and who is able to demonstrate the ability to pay the fare; nor,
K. Refuse to issue a receipt for a fare paid if one is requested.
16.40.700 Public Protection and Safety.
16.40.710 Equipment.
A. Every taxicab shall be equipped with a taximeter in accurate operating condition, with a lighted face which can be easily read at all times by passengers. Every taximeter shall be inspected and certified at installation, at change in rate, and within 1 year of the last inspection. A certificate of inspection shall be issued by a qualified taximeter repair service upon each inspection. Such certificate of inspection shall include:
1. The identifying number of the taximeter;
2. The make, model and license number of the taxicab in which the taximeter is installed;
3. The name of the taxicab company;
4. The date of inspection;
5. A certification that the taximeter has been inspected and approved as operating within the limits of accuracy as specified by this Section and on the basis of rates on file with the Supervisor under Section 16.40.310;
6. The signature of the individual making the certification; and
7. A copy of the certificate shall be kept on file in the office of the taxicab company.
B. No taxicab shall be operated with a taximeter which does not operate within the following limits of accuracy: Plus or minus 150 feet in 1 mile and 5 seconds in 1 minute of waiting time. A certificate of inspection may be examined or a taximeter reinspected by any police officer or the Supervisor at any time during normal business hours.
C. Every taxicab shall be equipped with a top light.
D. Every taxicab will be equipped with such safety equipment as is required by state or federal law, this Code, or by the Board’s Regulations. Every taxicab shall be equipped with seat belts or other restraining devices for every passenger.
16.40.720 Safety Inspections and Certification.
The Board shall establish safety and quality standards to be met by every taxicab. Every taxicab shall be:
A. Kept clean;
B. Kept in good appearance and good repair;
C. Properly equipped;
D. Kept in a safe condition; and,
E. Equipped with all pollution control equipment and safety devices originally installed by the manufacturer, and such equipment and devices shall be kept in good working order.
16.40.730 Insurance.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 173369, effective May 12, 1999.)
A. No person shall operate any vehicle as a taxicab unless that vehicle is covered by liability insurance providing coverage of not less than $200,000 for personal injury to any person, $500,000 for each occurrence, and $50,000 for each occurrence involving property damage, or in lieu of such coverage, a single limit insurance policy of not less than $500,000 covering all claims per occurrence. A certificate of insurance coverage, evidencing insurance coverage in compliance with this Section, shall be filed with the Supervisor. The adequacy of such insurance coverage shall be subject to the approval of the City Attorney.
B. The limits of insurance coverage required under this Section shall be subject to the statutory changes as to maximum limits of liability imposed on municipalities of the State of Oregon during the term of the taxicab company permit.
C. Insurance policies for all vehicles operating as taxicabs shall contain a provision that the policy will not be reduced in coverage or canceled without 30 days prior written notice to the Supervisor.
D. The Board may consider proposed alternatives to the insurance requirements of this Section, such as deposit of securities, letters of credit or self-insurance, (as provided in ORS 825.166 and 825.168). Alternatives to insurance may occur only if the level of coverage shall not be reduced, and the public safety and well being will not be effected. The adequacy of proposed alternative insurance coverage shall be subject to the approval of the City Attorney before the alternative to insurance may become effective.
E. Policies in existence at the effective date of this Section which provide for notice to the Supervisor need not be modified until time for their renewal.
F. Failure to maintain adequate insurance as required under this Section shall be cause for immediate suspension or revocation of a taxicab company permit by the Supervisor.
16.40.800 Criminal Provisions.
16.40.810 Criminal Penalties.
The violation of the following provisions is punishable upon conviction by a fine of not more than $500 or imprisonment for not more than 6 months or both:
A. It is unlawful to tamper with a taximeter or to conduct any fraudulent scheme with the intent to charge any person a fare greater than that allowed by this Chapter.
B. It is unlawful for any person to knowingly falsify any application, certification, report, or document of any kind required by this Chapter.
C. It is unlawful for any person to operate a taxicab without a current, valid taxicab driver’s permit to do so issued pursuant to this Chapter.
D. It is unlawful for any person to operate a taxicab company without a current, valid taxicab company permit, issued pursuant to this Chapter.
E. It is unlawful for any passenger to violate the provisions of Section 16.40.310.J.
16.40.900 Permits for Limited Passenger Transportation Service.
(Added by Ord. No. 167242, Feb. 28, 1994.)
A. No person may operate a limited passenger transportation business without a revocable permit issued by the Council.
B. As used in City Code Sections 16.40.900 through 16.40.950, the terms limited below shall have the following meanings, unless the context requires otherwise:
1. “Limited Passenger Transportation” means providing specialized transportation services by motor vehicle, other than as a taxicab, to passengers for hire to or from points within the corporate limits of the City, including but not limited to Agency Requested Transportation or Specially Attended Transportation.
a. “Agency Requested Transportation” means providing passenger transportation services: (1) from locations outside the City to destinations inside the City; (2) the client-passenger requires a return trip to the original pick-up point; (3) the transportation is related to the client-passenger’s health, education or welfare; and (4) the services are arranged for and paid under the authority of a prior written agreement between the transportation provider and a government agency or private, non-profit organization providing, coordinating or otherwise facilitating health, education or welfare services.
b. “Specially Attended Transportation” means providing regular, ongoing specialized transportation services for passengers with medical needs, not otherwise requiring emergency medical transportation by ambulance. Specially Attended Transportation includes, at a minimum: (1) service is provided by prior reservations only; (2) vehicles must be supplied with a wheelchair and other equipment as necessary in order to accommodate passenger’s special transportation needs; (3) drivers and other attendants may not provide medical service but must have experience or training for transporting persons with medical needs; and (4) drivers, attendants and vehicles must be maintained in clean, sanitary conditions while providing transportation services.
2. “Person” means any individual, partnership, joint venture, association, club, trust, estate, corporation, or other form of business organization recognized by Oregon Law.
3. “Taxicab Board of Review” has the same meaning as set forth in City Code Section 16.40.110.
16.40.910 Application for Permit.
(Added by Ord. No. 167242 and 169023, effective June 28, 1995; amended by Ordinance No. 171759, effective November 12, 1997.)
A. Before engaging in limited passenger transportation, a person shall apply to the City for a revocable permit.
B. Applications for a limited passenger transportation permit shall be submitted to the Taxicab Board of Review. The Board shall develop recommendations for the Council on whether to grant or deny the application, and the terms and conditions to include in the permit. The Board shall forward its recommendations to the Council within 90 days of receiving the application.
C. For the protection of the public health and safety, applicants for limited passenger transportation permits shall be required to demonstrate that adequate and reasonable service is not being provided.
D. Temporary permit. Notwithstanding subsections A. B. and C., any limited transportation operator whose business consists exclusively of contracting with government agencies, where the contracts contain safety and service quality standards which meet or exceed the standards established by PCC 16.40.900 - 950, may be issued a 90-day temporary operating permits, by the Taxicab Supervisor, in order to provide limited passenger transportation services under such contracts.
1. After receiving an application for a permit, the Supervisor shall examine the application to determine the following:
a. Payment of a non-refundable fee of $100. The Supervisor shall apply the temporary permit fee of $100 as a one-time credit against any fee for a limited passenger transportation revocable permit.
b. An insurance certificate covering each vehicle to be operated by the applicant, for not less than the amounts stated in PCC 16.40.920 C.
c. Proof of compliance with City of Portland Business License codes.
d. That the application has been fully completed, and that all information has been provided.
e. The applicant has a valid, binding contract with a government agency, where the contract contains safety and service quality standards which meet or exceed the standards established in PCC 16.40.900-950.
2. If the Supervisor determines that all of the criteria set forth in section D.1. have been satisfied, the Supervisor may issue a temporary operating permit to the applicant authorizing the applicant to operate for a period of up to 90 days.
16.40.920 Conditions of Limited Passenger Transportation Permits.
(Added by Ord. No. 167242 and 169023, effective June 28, 1995.)
A. Each limited passenger transportation permit issued by the Council shall be conditioned upon the faithful observance of Oregon laws and City ordinances and regulations regarding vehicles and equipment used by the limited passenger transportation business, and the faithful observance of the terms and conditions contained in each permit.
B. Each limited passenger transportation permit issued by the Council shall contain regulatory terms and conditions to preserve the public safety, convenience, and welfare.
C. No person shall operate vehicles under a limited passenger transportation permit without having liability insurance coverage for such vehicles of not less than $200,000 for personal injury to any person, $500,000 for each occurrence, and $50,000 for each occurrence involving property damage, or in lieu of such coverage, a single limit insurance policy of not less than $500,000 covering all claims per occurrence. A certificate of insurance coverage, evidencing insurance coverage in compliance with this Section, shall be filed with the Taxicab Supervisor. The adequacy of such insurance coverage shall be subject to the approval of the City Attorney.
D. The limits of insurance coverage required under this Section shall be subject to the statutory changes as to maximum limits of liability imposed on municipalities of the State of Oregon during the term of the limited passenger transportation permit.
E. Insurance policies for all limited passenger transportation permits shall contain a provision that the policy will not be reduced in coverage or canceled without 30 days prior written notice to the Supervisor.
F. Failure to maintain adequate insurance as required under this Section shall be cause for immediate suspension or revocation of a limited passenger transportation permit by the Taxicab Board of Review. The Taxicab Board of Review may designate one of its officers to exercise its suspension authority under this Section. Such suspension shall remain in effect only until the next regularly scheduled meeting time of the Taxicab Board of Review.
G. Applicability to 90-day temporary operating permits: All conditions contained in this Section shall apply to any permittee operating under the authority of a 90-day temporary operating permit.
16.40.930 Authority of the Taxicab Board of Review.
(Added by Ord. No. 167242 and 169023, effective June 28, 1995; amended by Ordinance No. 171759, effective November 12, 1997.)
A. The Taxicab Board of Review may adopt and enforce standards and regulations for limited passenger transportation permittees. In exercising this authority, the Board shall consider the public safety, health and convenience.
B. The Taxicab Board of Review shall monitor the performance of all limited passenger transportation permits granted by the City Council, to determine whether all of the terms and conditions thereunder are being complied with. In order to carry out this monitoring duty, the Taxicab Board of Review may make reasonable inspections and tests, and require reports, as the Board may deem necessary to protect the public safety or welfare.
C. The Taxicab Board of Review may suspend or revoke any limited passenger transportation permit if the Board finds, based upon investigation, reasonable grounds to believe that:
1. The permittee has violated any of the terms and conditions of City Code Sections 16.40.900 through 16.40.950 or the revocable permit; or
2. Any statement contained in the application for the permit was false.
D. Any suspension from service of a limited passenger transportation vehicle or suspension or revocation of a permit may be appealed by the permittee to the Code Hearings Officer, pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 22.10 of this Code.
E. Notwithstanding subsections A., B., C., and D., the Supervisor may immediately suspend or revoke a 90-day temporary operating permit or a limited passenger transportation permit if the Supervisor finds reasonable grounds to believe that:
1. Permittee or any employee of permittee is not covered by liability insurance as required by Section 16.40.920 C.;
2. Grounds for denial of the permit application are discovered during the inquiry; or
3. Continued operation by permittee would cause, or is likely to cause, imminent danger to the public health, safety, or morals.
F. 1. Notwithstanding Subsections A., B., C., and D., the Supervisor may assess a civil penalty, payable to the City of Portland, of up to $500 per day or per occurrence to be submitted to the City Taxicab Supervisor and deposited to the City’s general fund against:
a. a limited passenger transportation permittee if the Supervisor finds reasonable grounds to believe that the permittee has violated any of the terms of their permit; or
b. any person found to be operating as a limited passenger transportation business without a limited passenger transportation permit.
2. In calculating the amount of any civil penalty to be assessed under this Section, the Supervisor shall consider:
a. The extent and nature of the person’s involvement in the violation;
b. The benefits, economic, financial, or otherwise, accruing or likely to accrue as a result of the violation;
c. Whether the violations were repeated and continuous, or isolated and temporary;
d. The magnitude and seriousness of the violation;
e. The City’s costs of investigating the violation and correcting or attempting to correct the violation;
f. Whether the facts underlying the violation have been considered in a previous disciplinary proceeding; and
g. Any other factors the Supervisor deems to be relevant.
3. Any limited transportation permittee or person found to be operating as a limited passenger transportation business without a permit assessed a civil penalty may appeal to the Code Hearings Officer, pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 22.10 of this Code.
16.40.940 Fees.
(Added by Ord. No. 167242, effective Feb. 28, 1994.) The Council shall not approve any application for a limited passenger transportation permit without requiring the payment of compensation for the use of the City streets and public places, and to recover the costs of regulation to protect the public health and safety. Such fees and compensation shall be a reasonable allowance for the cost of inspection and supervision and for the use of the City streets and public places.
16.40.950 No Effect On Taxicab Regulations.
(Added by Ord. No. 167242, effective Feb. 28, 1994.) Nothing contained in Sections 16.40.910 through 16.40.950 shall in any manner repeal, change or otherwise modify the provisions of City Code Chapter 16.40 applicable to taxicabs.
Chapter 16.48
TAXICAB REGULATIONS
(Added by Ord. No. 139316; new Chapter
substituted by Ord. No. 147243; repealed by
165189, reinstated by 165522, and repealed by 165947, Oct. 28, 1992.)
Chapter 16.50
MASS TRANSIT
Sections:
16.50.001 Purpose.
16.50.100 Designation of Transit Lanes.
16.50.200 Prohibited Use of Transit Lanes.
16.50.300 Vehicles Permitted in Transit Lanes.
16.50.400 Vehicles Allowed In Transit Lanes During Certain Hours.
16.50.500 Regulation and Permit Procedure.
16.50.001 Purpose.
This section describes how mass transit lanes are designated, the regulations that apply, and which vehicles may use them.
16.50.100 Designation of Transit Lanes.
Designation of transit lanes will be made by the City Traffic Engineer upon advice of the City Engineer and the Tri-County Metropolitan Service District of Oregon (Tri-Met). Designation will be shown by official signs or markings. Signs or markings will distinguish whether the transit lane may be used by:
A. Bus only;
B. Light rail vehicle only;
C. Trolley or streetcar vehicle; or
D. Carpool vehicle only; or some combination of the above.
16.50.200 Prohibited Use of Transit Lanes.
A. Except as otherwise provided for in this Section, no vehicle may enter upon, park on, or use an officially designated transit lane.
B. Restrictions on transit lane use will vary depending on whether the lane is designated for light rail, motor bus, trolley, or carpool use.
16.50.300 Vehicles Allowed In Transit Lanes.
The following vehicles may enter upon, stop or park in a transit lane:
A. A vehicle owned or operated by the Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon.
B. A vehicle so allowed by the terms of a contract or franchise with the City of Portland or Tri-Met.
C. A police, fire, ambulance, or outpatient vehicle, if performing emergency services.
D. A vehicle and equipment engaged in emergency:
1. Towing;
2. Snow removal; or
3. Street, sewer, utility, bus or fire alarm repair.
16.50.400 Vehicles Allowed in Transit Lanes During Certain Hours.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 173627, effective August 4, 1999.)
A. A vehicle may enter upon and park in a transit lane if the lane is closed by a street closure permit from the City Engineer per 17.44.020 and if the vehicle is specifically authorized to do so by the street closure permit.
B. A vehicle with a travel lane parking permit (16.20.550) or an angle loading permit (16.20.540) may park in a transit lane if authorized to do so by the permit.
C. A public utility or construction vehicle engaged in work on or adjacent to a transit lane may enter upon, park, and use transit lanes designated for bus-only use except during the following hours: 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, after giving notification as required by regulations governing the Special Traffic Control District (17.23.050).
D. A public utility or construction vehicle engaged in work on or adjacent to a transit lane may enter upon, park, and use transit lanes designated for bus-only use between the hours of 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and/or 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, when specifically allowed during this time by a permit from the City Traffic Engineer. The City Traffic Engineer will notify Tri-Met and the City Engineer before issuing such a permit.
E. A vehicle requiring direct access to properties facing a transit lane for ingress/egress or special loading may enter upon and use (but not park in) the transit lane(s) between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. A permit from the City Traffic Engineer is required for this access between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.
F. A taxicab, for hire vehicle, delivery vehicle, maintenance vehicle, or garbage truck may enter certain transit lanes during times established by the Bureau of Transportation System Management’s “Rules and Procedures” Manual.
16.50.500 Regulation and Permit Procedure.
A. The Traffic Engineer must notify the Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon of any rule, regulation or permit proposed to be issued under this chapter. The rule, regulation or permit will become effective on a date agreed upon by both parties. In the event of disagreement between Tri-Met and the Traffic Engineer, the City Council will determine whether the rule be adopted or the permit issued based upon the amount of interference to mass transit operations.
B. No limitation or prohibition of use herein applies to vehicles on a street intersecting or crossing a transit lane unless it is specifically designated as a transit lane.
Chapter 16.60
PARADES AND PROCESSIONS
(New Section Substituted by
Ord. No. 166852, Aug. 11, 1993.)
Sections:
16.60.001 Purpose.
16.60.010 Definitions.
16.60.020 Authorization.
16.60.030 Permit Required.
16.60.040 Application and Review Process.
16.60.050 Sponsor Requirements.
16.60.060 Appeal Procedure.
16.60.070 Revocation of a Permit.
16.60.080 Permit Subject to Ordinances and Regulations.
16.60.090 Diversion of Traffic for a Special Event or Procession.
16.60.100 Interface with a Special Event Prohibited.
16.60.110 Funeral Processions.
16.60.001 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to provide regulation of special events requiring the use of City services and public streets or sidewalks, in order to maximize the safety of participants and to minimize inconvenience to the general public and disruption of public services.
16.60.010 Definitions.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 173627, effective August 4, 1999.)
A. Bureau Director: The Director of the Bureau of Licenses, or his designee.
B. Roadway: The area between the curb lines of a street or other dedicated area intended for public use by vehicular traffic.
C. Sidewalk: That portion of a street between the curb lines, or the lateral lines of a roadway, and the adjacent property line intended for the use of pedestrians.
D. Services: Any City service which is required to facilitate safe and orderly conduct of a special event, including but not limited to the services of:
Bureau of Licenses
Bureau of Maintenance
Bureau of Police
Bureau of Fire
Bureau of Transportation Engineering and Development
Bureau of Transportation System Management
Bureau of Parks and Recreation
E. Public body: The state, a regional council, county, city, or district, or any municipal or public corporation.
F. Special event: A procession or athletic event held by a sponsor on public streets or sidewalks which interferes with normal vehicular or pedestrian traffic for a distance of more than 4 blocks and requires the use of City services.
G. Special Events Committee: A review body composed of representatives from the above listed bureaus, the Office of Neighborhood Associations, Tri-Met and three citizens appointed by the Commissioner-in-charge of the Bureau of Licenses. The Special Events Committee is charged with reviewing special event applications and making recommendations in accordance with administrative regulations, and with making recommendations and reviewing recommended changes to the administrative regulations.
H. Sponsor: The person or group responsible for all aspects and liability of planning and carrying out the special event including applying, reapplying, canceling, or requesting changes to the event.
I. Applicant: The authorized agent of sponsor who completes the application and acts as a primary contact for a special event.
J. Event monitor: Person provided by sponsor who is stationed along the route of a special event to assist in the safe and orderly staging of the event.
K. Commissioner-in-charge: Elected City Commissioner assigned oversight responsibility for the Bureau of Licenses.
16.60.020 Authorization.
A. The Bureau Director, or his designee, is authorized to issue special event permits and adopt or amend administrative regulations to implement Chapter 16.60.
B. Adoption of Administrative Regulations. The Bureau Director may adopt administrative regulations pertaining to matters within the scope of this Section. All such administrative regulations must be in writing.
1. Prior to the adoption of any administrative regulation(s) by the Bureau Director pursuant to this Section, the Bureau Director will submit the proposed administrative regulation(s) to the Special Events Committee. After consultation with the Committee, the Bureau Director shall conduct a public hearing. The Bureau Director shall give reasonable public notice of his proposal to adopt administrative regulations not less than ten nor more than thirty days before such public hearing. Such notice shall include the place, time, and purpose of the public hearing, a brief description of the proposed regulations, and the location at which copies of the full text of the proposed administrative regulations may be obtained.
2. During the public hearing, the Bureau Director shall hear statements or receive written comment concerning the proposed administrative regulations. The Bureau Director shall either adopt the proposed administrative regulations, modify or reject them, taking into consideration the comments received during the public hearing. If a substantial modification is made, additional public review shall be conducted, but no additional public notice shall be required if an announcement is made at the hearing for a future hearing for a date, time and place certain at which the modification will be discussed. Unless otherwise stated, all administrative regulations shall be effective upon adoption by the Bureau Director. All administrative regulations adopted by the Bureau Director shall be filed in the Bureau’s office. Copies of all current administrative regulations shall be made available to the public upon request.
3. Notwithstanding subparagraphs 1. and 2. of this paragraph, the Bureau Director may adopt an interim administrative regulation without prior public notice upon a finding that failure to act promptly will result in serious prejudice to the public interest or the interest of the affected parties, including the specific reasons for such prejudice. Any administrative regulation adopted pursuant to this subparagraph shall be effective for a period of not longer than 180 days.
16.60.030 Permit Required.
A. A permit to hold a special event issued by the Bureau Director is required when an event is to be staged on public streets or sidewalks, as defined in Code of the City of Portland, Oregon, Section 16.60.010, and when City services are required because the event interferes with normal vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
B. Failure to obtain a permit in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 16.60 or the administrative regulations authorized by Section 16.60.020, is punishable by a fine of not more than $500.
16.60.040 Application and Review Process.
A. An application to conduct a special event shall be made in writing to the Bureau of Licenses. The application shall set forth the type of event; the date; beginning and ending times; route; expected number of participants; and name, address, and phone number of sponsor and applicant.
B. If an application to conduct a special event specifies a route which enters the special traffic control district(s) outlined in Section 17.23.030, prior approval of the City Engineer must be obtained before the Bureau Director will issue the permit.
C. If a special event requires specific approval or a permit from a City bureau or bureaus in addition to the special event permit, the specific bureau approval or permit must be obtained before the Bureau Director will issue the special event permit.
D. The Special Event Committee will review applications in accordance with administrative regulations established by the Bureau Director. In reviewing applications, the Committee will consider the availability of City resources and conflicting events and activities. The Committee will recommend to the Bureau Director approval, modification, or denial of the application.
E. If the Bureau Director finds the requirements of Chapter 16.60 and the administrative regulations are met, the Bureau Director will issue a permit. If the Bureau Director finds that the requested special event does not meet the criteria detailed in the administrative regulations, the Bureau Director may deny the permit, modify the permit by imposing restrictions on the permit, or issue a permit for a different date, time, or route to alleviate the burden.
16.60.050 Sponsor Requirements.
A. Permit fee: A permit fee must accompany all applications. Fees will be set forth in the administrative regulations and will be equal to approximately one-half of the minimum cost, by category, of providing services by the City.
B. Insurance: Insurance is required for events involving serious public safety concerns, as identified in the administrative regulations.
16.60.060 Appeal Procedure.
A. Appeal of denied or modified permit.
1. Any sponsor whose application is denied or who is offered a permit other than as applied for or who objects to conditions or restrictions included in the permit may appeal the matter to the City Council by filing, within 10 days after receipt of notification of denial or inclusion of restrictions, a written notice of appeal with the City Auditor.
2. Upon receiving a notice of appeal, the City Auditor will schedule the appeal on the Council Calendar for hearing by the City Council within 14 days. However, when the event is requested to occur before 14 days from receipt of notice of appeal, the City Auditor will schedule the appeal to be heard at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. At the hearing, the City Council may affirm or modify the decision of the Bureau Director on the basis of the conditions and standards set forth in this Chapter.
B. Appeal of administrative regulations.
1. Administrative regulations can be appealed to the City Council by filing a written notice of appeal with the City Auditor.
2. Upon receiving a notice of appeal, the City Auditor will schedule the appeal on the Council Calendar for hearing by the City Council within 14 days. The Council shall take such action upon the appeal as it sees fit and such action by the Council shall be final.
16.60.070 Revocation of a Permit.
A special event permit may be revoked or altered by the Bureau Director or the police supervisor assigned to the event if:
A. The monitors needed to conduct the event in a safe and orderly manner are not at their assigned positions before the starting time of the event.
B. The minimum number of participants required to start the event, as stated in the administrative regulations, is not present, with the following exceptions:
1. If fewer than the minimum number of participants arrive for an event composed entirely of pedestrians, it must proceed off the roadway, on the sidewalk or pedestrian pathway, with everyone obeying all traffic regulations and all federal, state, and local laws; or
2. If at least 75 percent of the minimum number of participants are present for an event involving pedestrians and vehicles or athletic activity, the event may continue as permitted; however, annual events will be placed on probation for the next year, as defined in the administrative regulations.
C. The event cannot start within 15 minutes of the starting time.
D. The sponsor fails to conform to any of the requirements of Chapter 16.60 or of the administrative regulations established by the Bureau Director pursuant to Chapter 16.60.
E. The event fails to conform to the conditions set forth in the application and permit.
16.60.080 Permit Subject to Ordinances and Regulations.
The sponsor and participants in a special event must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations in connection with all activities of the event.
16.60.090 Diversion of Traffic for a Special Event or Procession.
Whenever any special event is in progress, the Bureau of Police will have the authority to clear the streets or other public places and prohibit motor vehicles, buses, light rail, bicycles, and pedestrians from crossing, parking, stopping, and standing on the streets. It is unlawful for any person to refuse to comply with any order of a police officer given in accordance with this Section.
16.60.100 Interference With a Special Event Prohibited.
It is unlawful for any person to interfere with a special event permitted under Chapter 16.60 or to participate in a special event without the permission of the permit holder. The following acts, among others, are prohibited by this Section, when done with the intent to cause interference:
A. Blocking, obstructing, or impeding the passage of participants, vehicles, or animals in the special event along special event route.
B. Walking or running; driving a vehicle; riding a bicycle or skateboard through, between, with, or among participants, vehicles, or animals in the special event.
C. Dropping, throwing, rolling, or flying any object toward, among, or between participants, vehicles, or animals in the special event.
D. Throwing, squirting, dumping, or dropping any liquid or gaseous substance on, toward, among, or between participants, vehicles, or animals in the special event.
E. Grabbing at, taking hold of, hitting, pulling, or pushing any participant, vehicle, or animal in the special event or anything in the possession of any participant in the special event.
F. Vending or offering for sale any food or merchandise from the roadway, curb to curb, of a special event route during the hours the special event route is closed to normal motor vehicle traffic without first having obtained the written permission of the person holding the permit for the special event, in addition to any permits and/or licenses required for such activity.
16.60.110 Funeral Processions.
As used in this Section, funeral procession means four or more motor vehicles accompanying the body of a deceased person in the daytime, when each of such vehicles has its headlights lighted.
A. Pedestrians and the operators of all vehicles, except emergency vehicles, must yield the right-of-way to each vehicle which is a part of a funeral procession. Whenever the lead vehicle in the funeral procession lawfully enters an intersection, the remainder of the vehicles in such a procession may continue to follow such lead vehicle through the intersection notwithstanding any traffic control device or right-of-way provisions prescribed by statute or ordinance, provided the operator of each vehicle exercises due care to avoid colliding with any other vehicle or pedestrian upon the streets or highway.
B. No person may operate any vehicle as part of a funeral procession without having the headlights of such vehicle lighted.
C. No operator of a vehicle may drive between vehicles in a funeral procession which are properly identified while the procession is in motion, except when directed to do so by a police officer.
Chapter 16.70
MISCELLANEOUS REGULATIONS
Sections:
16.70.001 Purpose.
16.70.200 Pedestrians.
16.70.210 Must Use Crosswalks.
16.70.220 Must Cross at Right Angles.
16.70.230 To Obey Directions of School Traffic Patrol and Crossing Guard.
16.70.240 Bridge Railings.
16.70.300 Bicycles.
16.70.310 Persons Riding Bicycles to Obey Traffic Regulations.
16.70.320 Operating Rules.
16.70.330 Impounding Bicycles.
16.70.340 Renting Bicycles.
16.70.400 Other Transportation.
16.70.410 Roller Skates and Skateboards.
16.70.430 Train Switching Prohibited in Certain Areas
16.70.450 Off Street Parking Required for Trucks.
16.70.500 Traffic Regulations.
16.70.510 Trespassing - Leaving Pamphlet on Vehicle.
16.70.520 Hitching Onto Vehicle.
16.70.530 Central City Plan District Closed to Driving Lessons.
16.70.550 Vendor Traffic Regulations.
16.70.560 Traffic Regulations in Parks.
16.70.570 Inoperative Electric Traffic Control Signals.
16.70.600 Over Dimensional Vehicles.
16.70.610 General Prohibitions.
16.70.620 Exemptions.
16.70.630 Permits.
16.70.640 Limits of Authority to Issue Variance Permit.
16.70.650 Requirements, Conditions and Procedures for Issuance of Variance Permit; Duration; Cancellation.
16.70.660 Permit Must Be Carried and Displayed.
16.70.670 Movement of Building or Other Structure Excluded.
16.70.680 Liability for Damage to Streets or Other Public Property.
16.70.690 Designation of Streets for Vehicles of Excess Weight or Size.
16.70.700 Traffic Congestion Thoroughfares.
16.70.710 Purpose.
16.70.720 Posting Signs.
16.70.730 Signs.
16.70.740 Acts Prohibited.
16.70.750 Penalty.
16.70.760 Subsequent Violation.
16.70.770 Notice of Towing For Subsequent Violations.
16.70.800 Visibility.
16.70.900 Reckless Driving.
16.70.001 Purpose.
This Section provides traffic regulations in addition to those of the Oregon Revised Statutes that apply in the City of Portland.
16.70.200 Pedestrians.
16.70.210 Must Use Crosswalks.
No pedestrian may cross a street other than within a crosswalk if within 150 feet of a crosswalk.
16.70.220 Must Cross at Right Angles.
A pedestrian must cross a street at right angles unless crossing within a crosswalk.
16.70.230 To Obey Directions of School Traffic Patrol and Crossing Guard.
At intersections where a member of the school traffic patrol or crossing guard is stationed for the safety of school children, all pedestrians must obey the directions of such school traffic patrol member or crossing guard. It is unlawful for any pedestrian to cross at any intersection where such patrol member or crossing guard is stationed contrary to the direction of such school traffic patrol member or crossing guard.
16.70.240 Bridge Railings.
No pedestrians may sit, stand on, or lean their torso over a Willamette River bridge railing unless engaged in bridge maintenance work or otherwise authorized by an appropriate government agency.
16.70.300 Bicycles.
16.70.310 Persons Riding Bicycles to Obey Traffic Regulations.
Every person riding a bicycle upon a roadway is subject to state law and the provisions of this Title applicable to the driver of a vehicle, except state law and those provisions of this Title which by their very nature can have no application.
16.70.320 Operating Rules.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165594, July 8, 1992.) No person may:
A. Leave a bicycle so that it obstructs vehicle or pedestrian traffic on a roadway, sidewalk, driveway, handicap access ramp, building entrance, or so that it prevents operation of a parking meter or newspaper rack;
B. Leave a bicycle secured to a fire hydrant or to a police or fire call box;
C. Leave a bicycle on private property without consent of the owner or legal tenant. Consent is implied on private commercial property;
D. Leave a bicycle on a street or other public property for more than 72 hours; or
E. Ride a bicycle on a sidewalk, unless avoiding a traffic hazard in the immediate area, within the area bounded by and including SW Jefferson, Front Avenue, NW Hoyt and 13th Avenue, except:
1. On sidewalks designated as bike lanes or paths;
2. On the ramps or approaches to any Willamette River Bridge; or
3. In the area bounded by the west property line of SW Ninth Avenue, the east property line of SW Park Avenue, the north property line of SW Jefferson and the south property line of SW Salmon Street.
4. For police or special officers operating a bicycle in the course and scope of their duties; or
5. For employees of the Association for Portland Progress and companies providing security services operating a bicycle in the course and scope of their duties. These employees must have in possession an identification card issued by the Chief of Police certifying the rider has completed a training course in the use of a bicycle for security patrol.
16.70.330 Impounding Bicycles.
A. A bicycle left on a street or other public property for more than 72 hours may be impounded.
B. A bicycle may be immediately impounded if:
1. It is parked in violation of this code and obstructs or impedes pedestrian or vehicular traffic; or
2. It is an immediate threat to the public welfare.
C. The impounding agency must make reasonable efforts to notify the owner of the impoundment and a description of how and by what date the bicycle must be claimed.
D. A fee may be charged to the owner of an impounded bicycle. No impoundment fee will be charged to the owner of a stolen bicycle that has been impounded.
E. An impounded bicycle that remains unclaimed after 30 days may be disposed of in accordance with city procedures for disposal of abandoned or lost personal property.
16.70.340 Renting Bicycles.
No person may rent a bicycle to another person unless the bicycle is equipped as required by state law.
16.70.400 Other Transportation.
16.70.410 Roller Skates and Skateboards.
A. No person may use roller skates, including in-line skates, a skateboard, or other similar device upon any street (roadway and/or sidewalk) within the area bounded by and including SW Jefferson, Front Avenue, NW Hoyt and 13th Avenue, except where specifically designated as allowed by the City Traffic Engineer.
B. No person may use roller skates, including in-line skates, skateboard, or other similar device upon any street within the City between the hours of sunset and sunrise.
16.70.430 Train Switching Prohibited in Certain Areas.
A. On railroad tracks located in NW 12th Avenue between West Burnside and NW Hoyt Streets, and on railroad tracks located on NW Flanders Street, between NW 12th Avenue and NW Front Avenue, it is unlawful for any person to direct, cause, or permit switching movements of freight cars between the hours of 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.
B. No person may direct, cause, or permit any railroad equipment to be left or parked on the main line tracks of these streets.
16.70.450 Off-Street Parking Required for Trucks.
A person owning or controlling any truck or truck trailer must provide at his or her own expense complete off-street parking facilities for the storage of all such equipment.
16.70.500 Traffic Regulations.
16.70.510 Trespassing - Leaving Pamphlet On Vehicle.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165987, Nov. 12, 1992.)
A. It is unlawful for any person to ride or trespass upon or within any motor vehicle without the consent of the owner or operator thereof.
B. It is unlawful for any person to post, stick, or place upon or within any motor vehicle any card, notice, handbill, leaflet, pamphlet, survey, or similar matter without the consent of the owner or operator.
C. The provisions of this Section do not apply to any card, notice, handbill, leaflet, pamphlet, survey, or similar matter placed upon or within such motor vehicle by authority of law, by an authorized officer of the City, County, or State or by a designee of the City Traffic Engineer.
16.70.520 Hitching Onto Vehicle.
A. It is unlawful for any person riding upon any vehicle, sled, or other conveyance to hitch or hold on to any part of another vehicle or conveyance for the purpose of being propelled or drawn along any street or highway within the City.
B. Nothing contained in this Section is deemed to prohibit the coupling of one or more motor vehicles or motor vehicle and trailer in the manner approved by ORS 818.
16.70.530 Central City Plan District Closed to Driving Lessons.
It is unlawful for any person to give or receive lessons or instructions in driving or operating any vehicle upon any street, except interstate freeways, in the Central City Plan District except for access directly to and from an institution or business located in the Central City Plan District. This Section does not apply to an applicant for a motor vehicle operator’s license when accompanied by an examiner from the office of the Department of Motor Vehicles of Oregon.
16.70.550 Vendor Traffic Regulations.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165594 and 166575, June 2, 1993.)
A. It is unlawful for any:
1. Vehicle, cart, or temporary stand used to conduct business to be left unattended for 30 or more minutes or parked or stored over night on any public grounds, street, or highway. See also: 14.20.030, 14.20.060, 14.20.070, 14.20.080, 16.20.150 (D), 16.60.100 (F), 17.25, 17.26.
2. Vendor to conduct business in a roadway adjacent to or directly across from residential property for a period longer than 10 minutes within any block face. Such vendor must vacate said block face for a period of 2 hours upon expiration of the 10-minute limit.
B. Whenever, in the judgement of the Bureau of Police, traffic is or will be congested in and around an area being used by a vendor, the Bureau of Police is hereby given authority to cause said vendors to move and remain out of the congested area.
16.70.560 Traffic Regulations in Parks.
(Amended by Ord. No. 165594, July 8, 1992.)
A. Except as otherwise provided in this Section, the provisions of this Title regulating street traffic and parking apply to driving or parking a vehicle in a City park or golf course.
B. With approval of the Commissioner In Charge, the Superintendent of Parks may restrict or prohibit traffic or types of traffic and parking in City parks and golf courses. Signs giving notice of any restriction or prohibition imposed under this Subsection shall be posted and maintained by the Superintendent in a conspicuous
manner and place to inform the public. It is unlawful for any person to violate any restriction or prohibition imposed under this Subsection after notice thereof has been posted.
C. The Bureau of Police has authority to enforce the provisions of this Section.
D. The provisions of this Section do not apply to City authorized vehicles used in park or golf course service.
16.70.570 Inoperative Electric Traffic Control Signals.
An intersection with inoperative electric traffic control signals shall be treated as an uncontrolled intersection, unless other official traffic control devices have been erected at the intersection. This Section does not apply to freeway ramp metering signals operated by the Oregon Department of Transportation.
16.70.600 Over Dimensional Vehicles.
16.70.610 General Prohibitions.
A. It is unlawful for any person or owner to drive, move, or to cause or permit to be driven or moved on any street in the City any vehicle or combination of vehicles that:
1. Exceeds the weight or size limitations set forth in the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS), Chapter 818;
2. Is not constructed or equipped as required by ORS 818;
3. Is dragging upon or over the surface of a street any log, pole, piling, or other thing;
4. Does not move exclusively on revolving wheels or rotating tracks in contact with the surface of the street;
5. Is so constructed or loaded so as to allow its contents to drop, sift, leak, or otherwise escape therefrom; or
6. Violates any other provisions of this Title.
B. Operation of any vehicle or combination of vehicles in violation of the provisions of this Chapter is prima facie evidence that the owner of the vehicle or combination caused or permitted the vehicle or combination to be so operated and the owner shall be liable for any penalties imposed pursuant to ORS 818.
16.70.620 Exemptions.
A. The provisions of this Chapter governing size and weight do not apply to:
1. Any vehicle, combination of vehicles, article, machine, or other equipment in use by the Federal Government, the State of Oregon, or any county or city while in the immediate vicinity of and involved with the construction, maintenance, or repair of public highways;
2. Any vehicle in use by a mass transit district for the purposes authorized under ORS 267.010 to ORS 267.390, provided the size or weight of the vehicle is approved by the City for that route; or
3. Any vehicle, combination of vehicles, article, machine, or other equipment operated under a permit issued by the Traffic Engineer and in compliance with the conditions and restrictions thereof.
B. None of the size limits described in ORS 818, except the maximum limit of allowable extension beyond the last axle of a combination of vehicles, apply to agricultural equipment hauled, towed, or moved upon any street if the movement is incidental to the farming operations of the owner of the agricultural equipment.
16.70.630 Permits.
Under authority granted in Section 16.10.200, the Traffic Engineer may grant written permits for the operation over City streets, or sections thereof, of any vehicle or combination of vehicles, including any load thereon, having:
A. A gross weight;
B. A length;
C. A width;
D. A height; or
E. A maximum number of vehicles in combination; in excess of that authorized in ORS 818 or administratively imposed weight or size limits designated in accordance to 16.70.690.
16.70.640 Limits of Authority to Issue Variance Permit.
A permit may not be issued for any vehicle or load that can readily or reasonably be dismantled or disassembled to reduce weight or width. This does not apply to any vehicle, combination of vehicles, load, article, property, machine, or thing that is:
A. Used in the immediate vicinity of construction, maintenance, or repair of public highways; and
B. Of a length in excess of that permitted in ORS 818.
16.70.650 Requirements, Conditions and Procedures for Issuance of Variance Permit; Duration; Cancellation.
A. In issuing a permit, the Traffic Engineer may:
1. Grant a permit that is valid for a single trip, a number of trips or continuous operation.
2. Establish seasonal or other time limitations on a permit.
3. Require the applicant to furnish public liability and property damage insurance of the following amounts:
a. $50,000 to any claimant for any number of claims for damage to or destruction of property including consequential damages that arise from a single accident or occurrence;
b. $200,000 to any claimant for all other claims arising from a single accident or occurrence; and
c. $500,000 for any number of claims arising from a single accident or occurrence.
4. Require the applicant to furnish indemnity insurance or an indemnity bond in an amount fixed by the Traffic Engineer to:
a. Reimburse the City of Portland for any damage to the highways or streets that may be caused under the permit; and
b. Indemnify the members, officers, employees, and agents of the City of Portland from any claim that might arise from the granting of the permit and from the use of the highways under the permit.
5. Require a demonstration by the applicant to establish that any vehicle, combination of vehicles, load, article, property, machine, or thing in operation under a permit would:
a. Stay on the right side of the center line of the traveled way at all times; and
b. Allow sufficient room in the opposing traffic lane for the safe movement of other vehicles.
B. A permit must be in writing and must specify:
1. All highways or streets over which the permit is valid;
2. Any vehicle, combination of vehicles, load, article, property, machine, or thing allowed under the permit; and
3. Maximum dimensions and maximum weights allowed under the permit.
C. Under this section, the Traffic Engineer may not issue a permit that is valid for longer than 1 year.
D. An application for a permit issued under this section must specify:
1. The vehicle, combination of vehicles, load, article, property, machine, or thing for which the permit is requested;
2. The particular highways and streets for which the permit is sought; and
3. Whether the permit is sought for a single trip, a number of trips or continuous operation.
E. This section does not authorize:
1. Any vehicle, combination of vehicles, load, article, property, machine, or thing for which the permit is issued to be operated or moved contrary to any provisions of the vehicle code, except as specified in a permit; or
2. Any movement or operation of a vehicle, combination of vehicles, load, article, property, machine, or thing until a permit is issued.
F. The City Traffic Engineer may be present during the movement. The presence of the City Traffic Engineer and any directions or suggestion made by him/her is not to be considered supervision of the movement and does not relieve the permit holder or the permit holder’s insurers or sureties from liability for any damage done by the movement. If there are any of the permit’s terms or conditions with which the movement does not comply, the City Traffic Engineer who is present at the movement may order it to be stopped.
G. Any permit may be canceled at any time by the City Traffic Engineer upon satisfactory proof that:
1. The permit holder has violated any of the terms of the permit;
2. The permit was obtained through misrepresentation in the application therefor; or
3. The public interest requires cancellation.
16.70.660 Permit Must Be Carried and Displayed.
A. The driver of any vehicle or combination of vehicles for which a variance permit has been issued commits the offense of failure to carry and display a variance permit if the driver does not:
1. Have the variance permit in immediate possession at all times when driving the vehicle or combination of vehicles upon a public highway or street; and
2. Display the variance permit upon demand of any police officer, department or county weighmaster, judicial officer, or the City Traffic Engineer.
B. Later producing a variance permit issued prior to and valid at the time of an offense by authority of this section is not a defense for a charge under this section.
16.70.670 Movement of Building or Other Structure Excluded.
The movement of buildings or other structures on or over the streets and other public right-of-ways of the City is excluded from the provisions of this Chapter. (See Chapter 17.48, Public Improvements.)
16.70.680 Liability for Damage to Streets or Other Public Property.
Any person moving any vehicle of excess weight or size on or over any street or other public right-of-way in the City is responsible for damage to pavement or other public improvement or property caused thereby.
16.70.690 Designation of Streets for Vehicles of Excess Weight or Size.
A. When in the judgement of the City Traffic Engineer any City street or section thereof is capable of carrying any vehicle or combination of vehicles having a gross weight or overall size in excess of that authorized in ORS 818, the City
Traffic Engineer may report to the City Council so declaring that street and fixing the maximum gross weight, width, height, and/or length and types and classes of vehicles or combination of vehicles which may be operated thereon.
B. The provisions of any report accepted by the City Council pursuant to recommendation of the City Traffic Engineer under this Section may be changed or rescinded at any time and is subject to any order made pursuant to Section 16.10.200.
C. If a report submitted by the City Traffic Engineer under this Section is accepted by the City Council, a duplicate original thereof (and any amendment or revocation thereof) must be filed by the Auditor with the Secretary of State. After such resolution is adopted and filed, no permit is required for the operation upon such street or section thereof of a vehicle or combination of vehicles not exceeding the maximum gross weight and length fixed by the report for vehicles or combinations of vehicles of that type and class.
16.70.700 Traffic Congestion Thoroughfares.
16.70.701 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to prohibit the repeated driving of a motor vehicle along and across one portion of a congested public street, which constitutes a strict liability violation without any requirement of culpable mental state, all as described in this Chapter.
16.70.720 Posting Signs.
With respect to any traffic congestion thoroughfare, the Chief of the Bureau of Police or his/her designee is authorized to declare that portion of the street to be a traffic congestion thoroughfare and to cause signs, as described in this Chapter, to be posted notifying of that designation.
16.70.730 Signs.
The signs referred to in Section 16.70.720 will notify drivers that they are entering a traffic congestion thoroughfare; that repeated passage of a motor vehicle through or across the traffic congestion thoroughfare is a violation of City Code Section 16.70.740; and that for a subsequent violation, the vehicle will be towed.
16.70.740 Acts Prohibited.
Between the hours of 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. of the following morning, no vehicle may pass along or across a traffic congestion thoroughfare, designated as such by signs as described in Section 16.70.730, more than two times.
16.70.750 Penalty.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 165987, effective Nov. 12, 1992.) Violation of this Chapter is an infraction punishable by a fine not to exceed $150.
A. Except as provided below, violation of this Chapter is an infraction punishable by a fine not to exceed $150.
B. Violation of Sections 16.70.510 A, 16.70.210, 16.70.220 and 16.10.060, is punishable by a fine of not more than $500, or by imprisonment not exceeding 10 days or both.
16.70.760 Subsequent Violation.
If a vehicle passes along or across a traffic congestion thoroughfare as designated by signs in violation of Section 16.70.740, any single subsequent drive-through of that traffic congestion thoroughfare by that vehicle within the same 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. time period constitutes a separate violation of Section 16.70.740, punishable as provided in section 16.70.750; and the vehicle may be towed and taken to a storage area designated by the City and may be held for not more than 24 hours, all at the expense of the owner or person entitled to possession.
16.70.770 Notice of Towing For Subsequent Violations.
Upon issuing a citation for a violation of Section 16.70.740, the officer will give the person to whom the citation is issued a written notice which will state:
NOTICE
You have been cited for violation of Code Section 16.70.740 for repeated passage of a motor vehicle on or across a traffic congestion thoroughfare.
If the vehicle you are driving is again driven along or across this traffic congestion thoroughfare before 5 a.m. this morning, this vehicle may be impounded and towed in accordance with City Code Section 16.70.760.
Chief of the Bureau of Police
16.70.780 Exemptions.
This Section does not apply to:
A. Any publicly owned vehicle of any city, county, public district, state, or federal agency;
B. Any vehicle licensed for public transportation; or
C. Any other vehicle granted an exemption by the Chief of Police because passage of the vehicle along or across the traffic congestion thoroughfare is necessary for commercial or medical reasons.
16.70.800 Visibility.
(Amended by Ordinance Nos. 165987 and 173369, effective May 12, 1999.)
A. It is the responsibility of the owner or occupant of any property to prevent any vegetation or street tree on the property or the abutting public right-of-way from partially or wholly obstructing the visibility of traffic control devices, the visibility of or for drivers, bicyclists, or pedestrians, or in any way presents a safety hazard.
B. The person who owns or occupies said property is liable to any person who is injured or otherwise suffers damage by reason of the failure to remove or prune such vegetation as required by Title 16 or any other Title of the City Code. Furthermore, said person is liable to the City of Portland for any judgement or expense incurred or paid by the City, by reason of said person’s failure to satisfy the obligations imposed by this or any other Title of the City Code.
C. Any street tree removal or pruning required by this Title must be done in accordance with the provisions of Title 20.
D. Any vegetation or street tree not removed or pruned as required in this Title is hereby declared to be a public nuisance and may be summarily abated as provided in Title 29.
E. Whenever the provisions of this section conflict with those of any other section of this code, including but not limited to Titles 16, 17, 18, 20, and 33, the stricter provisions shall govern.
16.70.900 Reckless Driving.
(Added by Ordinance No. 173097, effective by February 10, 1999.)
A. A driver of a vehicle commits the crime of reckless driving within the City of Portland if the driver commits two or more of the following violations in a single series of acts in such a way as to endanger the safety of persons or property:
1. Unlawful or unsignaled lane change;
2. Unsafe passing on the left or right;
3. Passing in a no-passing zone;
4. Following too close;
5. Illegal backing;
6. Unlawful stop or deceleration;
7. Failure to signal;
8. Violation of maximum speed limit in an urban area; or
9. Taking other actions that a reasonable driver would know endanger the safety of persons or property in a congested urban driving environment such as the City of Portland.
B. Violation of this law shall constitute a Class A Misdemeanor as prescribed in State law.
Chapter 16.90
DEFINITIONS
Sections:
16.90.001 Generally.
16.90.005 Abandoned Vehicle.
16.90.010 Accessory Recreational Vehicle.
16.90.015 Alley.
16.90.020 Angle Loading.
16.90.025 Bicycle.
16.90.030 Bicycle Lane.
16.90.035 Bicycle Path.
16.90.040 Bicycle Trail.
16.90.045 Block Face.
16.90.050 Bureau of Transportation System Management.
16.90.055 Carpool Vehicle.
16.90.060 Central City Plan District.
16.90.065 City Recognized Holidays.
16.90.070 Compact Car.
16.90.075 Conduct Business.
16.90.080 Construction Zone.
16.90.085 Crosswalk.
16.90.090 Curb.
16.90.095 Curb Line.
16.90.100 Driver.
16.90.105 Driveway.
16.90.110 Drop box.
16.90.115 Emergency Vehicles.
16.90.120 Fire Station.
16.90.125 Fog Line or Edge Line.
16.90.130 Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.
16.90.135 Guest.
16.90.140 Handicap Access Ramp.
16.90.145 Hotel.
16.90.150 Improper Use.
16.90.155 Intersection.
16.90.160 Light Rail Transit System.
16.90.165 Light Rail Vehicle.
16.90.170 Load/Unload.
16.90.175 Local Authorities.
16.90.180 Long-Term Parking Meter.
16.90.185 Mobile Construction Trailer.
16.90.190 Motor Bus.
16.90.195 Motor Home.
16.90.200 Motor Vehicle.
16.90.205 Municipal Terminal.
16.90.210 Official.
16.90.215 Official Vehicle.
16.90.220 Official/Reserved Zone.
16.90.225 Operator.
16.90.230 Parade.
16.90.235 Park, Parking or Parked.
16.90.240 Parking Lane.
16.90.245 Parking Meter.
16.90.250 Pedestrian.
16.90.255 Pedestrian Way.
16.90.260 Permanently Exhibit.
16.90.265 Person.
16.90.270 Planting Strip.
16.90.275 Private Road.
16.90.280 Public Right-of-Way.
16.90.285 Rail Vehicles.
16.90.290 Recreational Vehicle.
16.90.295 Regulated Parking Zone.
16.90.300 Repair (a vehicle).
16.90.305 Roadway.
16.90.310 School Bus.
16.90.315 Service (a vehicle).
16.90.320 Short-Term Parking Meter.
16.90.325 Shoulder.
16.90.330 Sidewalk.
16.90.335 Skateboard.
16.90.340 Sled.
16.90.345 Stop, Stopping or Stopped.
16.90.350 Street or Highway.
16.90.355 Taxicab.
16.90.360 Tire.
16.90.365 Traffic.
16.90.370 Traffic Congestion Thoroughfare.
16.90.375 Traffic Control Device.
16.90.380 Traffic Control Signal.
16.90.385 Traffic Hazard.
16.90.390 Traffic Lane.
16.90.395 Tri-Met Bus.
16.90.400 Trolley.
16.90.405 Truck.
16.90.410 Truck Trailer.
16.90.415 Uncontrolled Intersection.
16.90.420 Utility Trailer.
16.90.425 Vehicle.
16.90.430 Vehicle Alarm System.
16.90.435 Vendor.
16.90.001 Generally.
The following words and phrases when used in this Title shall, for the purpose of this Title, have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this Chapter, except in those instances where the context clearly indicates a different meaning. Definitions of words and phrases in the Oregon Revised Statutes may be applied unless defined differently in this Title or in those instances where the context clearly indicates a different meaning.
16.90.005 Abandoned Vehicle.
A vehicle that remains in the same location for more than 24 hours and one or more of the following conditions exist:
A. The vehicle does not have a lawfully affixed, unexpired registration plate.
B. The vehicle appears to be inoperative or disabled.
C. The vehicle appears to be wrecked, partially dismantled or junked.
16.90.010 Accessory Recreational Vehicle.
See Recreational Vehicle.
16.90.015 Alley.
A public right-of-way primarily intended to provide access to the rear or side of lots or buildings in urban areas and not intended for through vehicular traffic.
16.90.020 Angle Loading.
When a vehicle is parked at an angle to traffic flow for the purpose of loading/unloading and extends into the public right-of-way anywhere outside of a legal parking area.
16.90.025 Bicycle.
A type of vehicle that:
A. Is designed to be operated on the ground on wheels;
B. Has a seat or saddle for use of the rider;
C. Is designed to travel with not more than three wheels in contact with the ground;
D. Is propelled exclusively by human power; and
E. Has every wheel more than 14 inches in diameter or two tandem wheels either of which is more than 14 inches in diameter.
16.90.030 Bicycle Lane.
The part of the street designated by official signs or markings for use by persons riding bicycles except as otherwise specifically provided by law.
16.90.035 Bicycle Path.
A public way, not part of a street or highway, that is designated by official signs or markings for use by persons riding bicycles except as otherwise specifically provided by law.
16.90.040 Bicycle Trail.
A publicly owned and maintained lane or way designated and assigned for use as a bicycle route, and may include both a bicycle lane and a bicycle path.
16.90.045 Block Face.
The area between the line separating a public right-of-way from private property and the center line of a street or highway, and between the midpoint of two intersections.
16.90.050 Bureau of Transportation System Management.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 173627, effective August 4, 1999.) Chapter 3.12 establishes the Bureau of Transportation System Management.
16.90.055 Carpool Vehicle.
A. Any vehicle that is designed by its manufacturer to seat three or more people and is utilized to transport on a regular basis, three or more people including the driver, from a point of origin to a destination.
B. For the purpose of this Title of the City Code, carpool vehicle specifically means any vehicle described in (A) above, which displays a carpool permit issued by the Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon.
16.90.060 Central City Plan District.
The Central City Plan District is defined in Title 33 of this code. For purposes of this Title, however, regulations that apply to the Central City Plan District apply to the whole street (up to the property line or extension of a property line to the corner of a property line across an intersection) of the streets whose center lines serve as boundaries to the Central City Plan District.
16.90.065 City Recognized Holidays.
City recognized holidays are:
A. New Year’s Day;
B. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday;
C. President’s Day;
D. Memorial Day;
E. Fourth of July;
F. Labor Day;
G. Veteran’s Day;
H. Thanksgiving Day; and
I. Christmas Day.
A day begins at 12:00:00 a.m. and ends at 11:59:59 p.m.
16.90.070 Compact Car.
Any vehicle which will fit within the space lines of a space designated for compact cars by official signs or markings.
16.90.075 Conduct Business.
The act of selling or attempting to sell services, or edible or nonedible items for immediate delivery.
16.90.080 Construction Zone.
The space adjacent to the curb and in immediate proximity to the premises where construction, alteration, remodeling, repairing, or similar work is in progress, and designated by official parking meter or sign hoods, signs, or markings.
16.90.085 Crosswalk.
Any portion of a roadway at an inter-section or elsewhere that is distinctly indicated for pedestrian crossing by lines or other markings on the surface of the roadway that conform in design to the standards established for crosswalks under ORS 810.200. Whenever marked cross- walks have been indicated, such cross- walks and no other shall be deemed lawful across such roadway at that intersection. Where no marked crosswalk exists, a crosswalk is that portion of the roadway described in the following:
A. Where sidewalks, shoulders or a combination thereof exists, a crosswalk is the portion of a roadway at an intersection, not more than 20 feet in width as measured from the prolongation of the lateral line of the roadway toward the prolongation of the adjacent property line, that is included within:
1. The connections of the lateral lines of the sidewalks, shoulders, or a combination thereof on opposite sides of the street or highway measured from the curbs or, in the absence of curbs, from the edges of the traveled roadway; or
2. The prolongation of the lateral lines of a sidewalk, shoulder, or both, to the sidewalk or shoulder on the opposite side of the street, if the prolongation would meet such sidewalk or shoulder.
B. If there is neither sidewalk nor shoulder, a crosswalk is the portion of the roadway at an intersection, measuring not less than 6 feet in width, that would be included within the prolongation of the lateral lines of the sidewalk, shoulder or both on the opposite side of the street or highway if there were a sidewalk.
16.90.090 Curb.
Any raised margin defining the space in the street devoted to vehicular traffic.
16.90.095 Curb Line.
The curb line separates a street or highway into the area dedicated to vehicle traffic (roadway) and the area dedicated to pedestrian and nonmotor vehicle traffic (planting strip, sidewalk, etc.).
16.90.100 Driver.
The rider, driver, or leader of any animal or vehicle that is not self-propelled and the operator of any vehicle that is self- propelled.
16.90.105 Driveway.
A. A road or access, whether improved or unimproved, extending from a public right-of-way onto private or public lands or structures for the purpose of gaining vehicular access to such areas and reasonably designated at the property line so as to be an obvious opening for access. For purposes of enforcement, a driveway:
1. Extends from one curb return to the other;
2. If winged, includes the wings; or
3. If the street is unimproved, the driveway area falls between the projections of the edges of an improved driveway or the most established tire ruts of an unimproved driveway.
B. Such road or access will be enforced as a driveway unless closed by a structure or permanent closure device.
16.90.110 Drop Box.
A container in which trash or any other refuse material is temporarily stored or collected. For the purposes of Title 16, a drop box will be considered a vehicle in terms of parking provisions and restrictions.
16.90.115 Emergency Vehicles.
Vehicles of the Bureau of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services, police vehicles, emergency vehicles of municipal departments, and ambulances while being used for emergency purposes and displaying lights as required by the Oregon Revised Statutes.
16.90.120 Fire Station.
Any building used for the purpose of housing fire apparatus of the City.
16.90.125 Fog Line or Edge Line.
The official 4-inch wide marking that defines the lateral lines of a roadway.
16.90.130 Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.
The value specified by the manufacturer as the maximum loaded weight of a single or a combination vehicle or the registration weight, whichever is greater.
16.90.135 Guest.
As used in a regulated parking zone sign, means a patron or visitor to the adjacent hotel.
16.90.140 Handicap Access Ramp.
An inclination, ramp-like structure, or any other such device designed to serve and provide ease of access from the sidewalk to the roadway or from the street to adjacent property for individuals using a mobility aid. If winged, it includes the winged area of the structure.
16.90.145 Hotel.
Any structure intended or designed for transient occupancy and which offers more than 25 percent of its rooms for dwelling, lodging or sleeping purposes for less than a 30 day period.
16.90.150 Improper Use.
Improper use occurs when a permit holder violates the provisions described on the permit application.
16.90.155 Intersection.
The area of a roadway created when two or more public roadways join together at any angle, as described in one of the following:
A. If the roadways have curbs, the intersection is the area embraced within the prolongation or connection of the lateral curb lines.
B. If the roadways do not have curbs, the intersection is the area embraced within the prolongation or connection of the lateral boundary lines of the roadways.
C. The junction of an alley with a roadway does not constitute an intersection.
D. Where a highway includes two roadways 30 feet or more apart, then every crossing of each roadway of the divided highway by an intersection highway is a separate intersection. In the event the intersection highway also includes two roadways 30 feet or more apart, then every crossing of two roadways of such highways is a separate intersection.
16.90.160 Light Rail Transit System.
A commuter transit mode consisting of steel-wheeled rail vehicles, powered electrically through overhead lines, operating predominately on exclusive right-of-way that need not be grade separated.
16.90.165 Light Rail Vehicle.
A component car in a light rail transit system.
16.90.170 Load/Unload.
To load or unload a vehicle means to be actively engaged in removing merchandise from or putting merchandise in a vehicle.
16.90.175 Local Authorities.
Every county, municipality, and other local board or body having authority to adopt local police regulations under the constitution and laws of this State.
16.90.180 Long-Term Parking Meter.
A parking meter with a designated time limit of more than 4 hours.
16.90.185 Mobile Construction Trailer.
A trailer that is used temporarily in conjunction with a construction site for office and other related purposes.
16.90.190 Motor Bus.
Every motor vehicle designed or used for carrying passengers and their personal baggage for compensation. The term “motor bus” does not mean or include taxicabs designed or constructed to accommodate and transport not more than five passengers, exclusive of the driver, and fitted with taximeters or using or having some other device, method, or system to indicate and determine the passenger fare paid for distance traveled.
16.90.195 Motor Home.
See Recreational Vehicle.
16.90.200 Motor Vehicle.
Every inanimate vehicle which is self-propelled.
16.90.205 Municipal Terminal.
Any property owned or operated by the Port of Portland for the provision of port services.
16.90.210 Official.
By authority of or recognized by law or code.
16.90.215 Official Vehicle.
Any government vehicle so identified by public registration plates.
16.90.220 Official/Reserved Zone.
Any space adjacent to the curb or edge of the roadway which is exclusively reserved for those vehicles which have been assigned the use of such space through official permits or other means of designation.
16.90.225 Operator.
Any person who is in actual physical control of a vehicle.
16.90.230 Parade.
Any group of persons and/or vehicles moving on a street or streets of the City under permit as herein provided in accordance with a plan or common purpose for a celebration, display, exhibition, show, or advertisement, whether for public, semi-public, or private purposes, but does not include funeral processions or advertising vehicles operating under the provisions of Title 7.
16.90.235 Park, Parking, or Parked.
The stopping or standing of any vehicle upon any street or highway within the City, whether such vehicle is occupied or not. It does not mean stopping or halting temporarily for less than 30 seconds to load/unload passengers, or in obedience to traffic regulations, signs, signals, or officers.
16.90.240 Parking Lane.
The area between the curb and not more than 8 feet from the curb or curb line or as shown by official street markings. The parking lane is generally intended for vehicle parking. Parking regulations may apply to the parking lane area according to the provisions of Title 16 of the Portland City Code.
16.90.245 Parking Meter.
A device placed at or near the curb adjacent to the street area, authorized by the City and designed to register the duration of the parking time and the limit thereof, upon the insertion of a U.S. coin.
16.90.250 Pedestrian.
A person afoot; a person operating a pushcart; a person riding on or pulling a coaster wagon, sled, scooter, tricycle, bicycle with wheels less than 14 inches in diameter, or a similar conveyance; or on roller skates, skateboard, wheelchair, or a baby in a carriage.
16.90.255 Pedestrian Way.
A right-of-way intended for pedestrian traffic.
16.90.260 Permanently Exhibit.
To display affixed to a vehicle so that the sign may not be removed from the vehicle without mechanical tools.
16.90.265 Person.
A natural person, firm, partnership, association, social or fraternal organization, corporation, trust, estate, receiver, syndicate, branch of government, or any group or combination acting as a unit.
16.90.270 Planting Strip.
The area between the curb or edge of the roadway and an improved sidewalk.
16.90.275 Private Road.
Every way or place in private ownership and used for vehicular travel by the owner and those having express or implied permission from the owner, but not by other persons.
16.90.280 Public Right-of-Way.
The area between property lines of a street, an easement, or other area dedicated for public use.
16.90.285 Rail Vehicles.
Any steel-wheeled vehicle(s) propelled on fixed steel rails, including, but not limited to: trolleys; light rail vehicles; and diesel- powered trains.
16.90.290 Recreational Vehicle.
A vehicle which is designed for sport or recreational use, or which is designed for human occupancy on an intermittent basis. Recreational vehicle is divided into two categories as follows:
A. Motor Home. A motor vehicle designed for human occupancy on an intermittent basis. A camper is considered a motor home when it is on the back of a pick-up or truck.
B. Accessory Recreational Vehicle. A nonmotor vehicle designed for human occupancy on an intermittent basis such as vacation trailers and fifth-wheel trailers. A camper is considered an accessory recreational vehicle when it is not on the back of a pick-up or truck. Accessory recreational vehicle also includes vehicles designed for off-road use such as off-road vehicles, dune buggies, and recreational boats.
16.90.295 Regulated Parking Zone.
A space adjacent to a curb or curb line, designated by official signs or markings, where special regulations for parking or stopping a vehicle apply in addition to the general parking regulations that apply to all parking areas in the public right-of-way.
16.90.300 Repair (a vehicle).
To perform work on the motor, mechanical, or body parts of a vehicle.
16.90.305 Roadway.
The portion of a public street or highway improved for motor vehicle traffic, including the parking lane. On an improved street, the area between the curbs or edge lines of a street.
16.90.310 School Bus.
A motor bus owned or operated by authority of any lawfully recognized school district.
16.90.315 Service (a vehicle).
To perform routine maintenance such as replacing fluids or charging batteries. It does not include repairs to motor or body parts.
16.90.320 Short-Term Parking Meter.
A parking meter with a designated time limit of 4 hours or less.
16.90.325 Shoulder.
The portion of a public street or highway without curbs, whether paved or unpaved, contiguous to the roadway that is primarily for use by pedestrians, for the accommodation of stopped vehicles, for emergency use and for lateral support of base and surface courses.
16.90.330 Sidewalk.
The portion of the street between the curb or lateral lines of the roadway and the adjacent property lines, intended for use by pedestrians. An improved sidewalk is a pedestrian walkway with permanent surfacing in the sidewalk area of a street or highway.
16.90.335 Skateboard.
A board of any material, natural or synthetic, with wheels affixed to the underside, designed to be ridden by a person.
16.90.340 Sled.
Vehicles that do not move exclusively on revolving wheels in contact with the surface of the road or on fixed rails.
16.90.345 Stop, Stopping, or Stopped.
Any halting, even momentarily, of a vehicle, whether occupied or not, except to avoid conflict with other traffic or in compliance with the directions of a police officer or traffic-control sign or signal.
16.90.350 Street or Highway.
The entire width between the property lines of every public right-of- way when any part thereof is open to the use of the public for purposes of use by vehicular traffic.
16.90.355 Taxicab.
Any motor vehicle which carries passengers for hire where the destination and route traveled may be controlled by a passenger and the fare is calculated on the basis of an initial fee, distance traveled, waiting time, or any combination thereof, and which is duly licensed by the City of Portland as a taxicab.
16.90.360 Tire.
The band of material used on the circumference of a wheel, on the outer face of a track or on a runner of a sled, which forms the tread that comes in contact with the surface of the road, or, if no band is used, then it means the tread or runner of a sled.
16.90.365 Traffic.
Pedestrians, ridden or herded animals, vehicles, light rail, motor buses, and other conveyances, either singly or together, while using any street or highway for purposes of travel or parking.
16.90.370 Traffic Congestion Thoroughfare.
Any portion of a street or highway within the City affected by traffic congestion caused in whole or in part by the repeated driving of the same motor vehicles along or across that portion of the thoroughfare.
16.90.375 Traffic Control Device.
A. All signs, signals, markings, and devices consistent with this Title placed or operated by direction of the City Traffic Engineer for the purpose of guiding, directing, warning, or regulating traffic or parking.
B. Any device that remotely controls by electrical, electronic, sound, or light signal the operation of any device identified in subsection (A) of this definition.
16.90.380 Traffic Control Signal.
Any device, whether manually, electrically, or mechanically operated, by which traffic is directed. An electric traffic control signal is considered inoperative when none of the signal control indications are illuminated.
16.90.385 Traffic Hazard.
Any object, including vehicles, that impede the safe movement of vehicles in the public right-of-way.
16.90.390 Traffic Lane.
An area of a street or highway, designated by official signs or markings, as dedicated to the movement of one vehicle at a time or a width of roadway greater or equal to 12 feet.
16.90.395 Tri-Met Bus.
A motor bus owned or operated by the Tri-Metropolitan Transit District of Oregon.
16.90.400 Trolley or Streetcar.
An electric or diesel powered, steel wheeled rail vehicle operating on steel rails, of an old-fashioned streetcar design used to transport passengers.
16.90.405 Truck.
Every motor vehicle designed, used or maintained primarily for the transportation of property and having a gross vehicle weight rating equal to or greater than (>) 8,000 lbs.
16.90.410 Truck Trailer.
A vehicle which is not a recreational vehicle or utility trailer, is more than 16 feet in length, and is designed to be pulled by a motor vehicle.
16.90.415 Uncontrolled Intersection.
Any intersection with no official traffic control device to designate vehicular right-of-way.
16.90.420 Utility Trailer.
A vehicle which is used to carry property, refuse, or special equipment, is 16 feet or less in length and is designed to be pulled by a motor vehicle. Boat trailers are included as utility trailers no matter what their length.
16.90.425 Vehicle.
Every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon any public street or highway, except bicycles.
16.90.430 Vehicle Alarm System.
Any device, equipment, assembly, or system designed, arranged, or intended to sound an alarm horn, siren, klaxon, or other sound emitting device to signal an entry or attempted entry into, or tampering with, a vehicle.
16.90.435 Vendor.
Any person who conducts business in the public right-of-way or any other public property.