Portland Replaces Camping Ban With New Policy

The Portland, Oregon city council approved a new policy that regulates sleeping and camping on public property.

As Alex Zielinski explains in an article for Oregon Public Broadcasting, the new policy eases a camping ban passed last year. “The proposal allows people experiencing homelessness to camp on public property if no shelter beds are available, which is often the case in Multnomah County. But it limits what people can do while camping. For instance, the policy prohibits people from using a propane heater, digging into the ground, starting a fire, selling bicycles or car parts, or blocking access to private property while camping.”

The policy includes penalties of up to $100 or seven days in jail for violations. “People could also face the same penalties if an outreach worker with the city informs them that shelter space is available, but they refuse to pack up their camp.”

An upcoming Supreme Court decision on a case from Grants Pass, Oregon could change how cities can regulate outdoor sleeping. “If the court rules in Grants Pass’ favor, Portland wouldn’t be able to immediately begin penalizing people camping in public spaces. It would still need to adhere to a state law that directs cities to establish rules that allow for public camping if there isn’t shelter space available.”