Oregon has several everyday infractions like jaywalking and littering that many people commit without realizing they’re breaking the law. These minor violations often carry fines but aim to promote public safety and cleanliness. Other common ones include sidewalk biking rules and pet waste cleanup.
Jaywalking Rules
Jaywalking—crossing outside designated crosswalks or against signals—is illegal under Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 814.020 as a Class D violation, with fines around $65. Pedestrians must yield to vehicles outside crosswalks and obey signals at intersections, even unmarked ones. This reduces accident risks, though enforcement is often lax unless cited.
Littering Penalties
Littering is prohibited under ORS 164.805, with “offensive littering” fined up to $360 for basic cases or escalated to a Class C misdemeanor if cleanup exceeds $50, potentially including community service. Throwing lit cigarettes carries harsher penalties: up to $2,500 fine and 6 months jail as a Class B misdemeanor. These laws target environmental harm from discarded items.
Sidewalk Biking Limits
Bicyclists can ride sidewalks unless locally banned but must yield to pedestrians, signal when passing, and avoid careless speeds near crosswalks or driveways per ORS 814.410. Riding too fast (faster than a walk) near vehicle paths or endangering others is a violation. Cities like Portland enforce this for pedestrian safety.
Pet Waste Cleanup
Dog owners must immediately pick up waste in public areas like parks and trails, with Portland fining violators under local codes. Failure contributes to sanitation issues and disease spread, making “scoop laws” standard statewide. Always carry bags to comply.​
