The legality of car sleeping in Oregon is a complex issue that varies depending on location and specific local ordinances. Here’s what you need to know about sleeping in your vehicle in Oregon:
State-Level Regulations
Oregon state law does not explicitly prohibit sleeping in your car. However, House Bill 2115, passed in 2021, requires cities and counties to create “reasonably objective” space and hours for overnight sleeping. This law prevents outright camping bans but allows for regulations on time, place, and manner of sleeping in public spaces.
City-Specific Ordinances
Many Oregon cities have their own regulations regarding car sleeping:
Albany: It is unlawful to use a motor vehicle for sleeping or housekeeping purposes within city limits, except in approved recreational vehicle parks, on private property with consent (limited to 7 days in a 90-day period), or within public right-of-way for up to 48 hours for self-contained recreational vehicles.
Eugene: The city allows overnight sleeping in vehicles in certain circumstances:
- In parking lots of religious institutions, businesses, or public entities, with the property owner’s permission (limited to 6 vehicles).
- On paved or graveled surfaces of vacant or unoccupied parcels, with the property owner’s permission and registration with the city (limited to 6 vehicles).
Bend: As of August 2024, the city was considering updates to its vehicle sheltering rules. Proposed changes included requiring vehicles to move after 24 hours, prohibiting camping near residential areas and shelters, and limiting density to no more than three vehicle camps per block.
Corvallis: The city allows overnight sleeping in certain parks from 10 PM to 6 AM, subject to park rules and regulations.
Rest Areas and Highways
Sleeping in a car at rest areas is generally allowed for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. However, overnight stays along highways outside of designated rest areas are prohibited, and police may contact you.
Safe Sleep Sites
Some Oregon cities have established “Safe Sleep Sites” to provide legal options for people experiencing homelessness. For example, Eugene has created sites that can accommodate up to 60 vehicles or 40 tents, managed by social service providers.
Recent Legal Developments
In early 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court sided with a local ordinance in Oregon that effectively bans homeless people from sleeping outdoors. This decision allows local governments to enforce laws regulating camping on public property without violating the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment.
Considerations for Car Sleepers
- Always check local ordinances before sleeping in your car, as regulations can vary significantly between cities.
- Look for designated safe parking programs or rest areas when available.
- Be prepared to move your vehicle as required by local time limits.
- Respect private property and avoid parking in residential areas without permission.
- Keep your vehicle clean and avoid creating disturbances to minimize potential conflicts.
Future Outlook
The issue of car sleeping and homelessness remains contentious in Oregon. As of late 2024, there were ongoing debates about modifying state laws to give cities more authority in regulating camping and sleeping in vehicles. These discussions are likely to continue, potentially leading to changes in regulations in the coming years.
In conclusion, while sleeping in your car is not universally illegal in Oregon, it is subject to a patchwork of state and local regulations. Always research the specific rules of the area you plan to stay in, and be prepared to comply with time, place, and manner restrictions to avoid legal issues.
Sources:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/OregonCoast/comments/11skm2o/overnight_parkingsleeping_in_the_car/
- https://tualatinlife.com/local-news/new-ordinance-limits-hours-and-locations-for-houseless-camping/
- https://albanyoregon.gov/police/safety/vehicle
- https://dioceseofvaranasi.org.in/sleeping-in-your-car-state-laws-you-need-to-know
i drive to and from my night job and an usually getting ready to go home between midnight and 2 am. I sometimes get tired and have to pull over for a nap before continuing to drive. i always pull over on those deeper easements along the road (like in the natural forest roads) so I am far enough off the road to be safe. my naps rarely are longer than 2 hours. so those pull over areas /easements along the road that are ODOT maintained are ok to take a nap at/on?
So what is the penalty for violating any of these so called “time, place, manner” regulations?
It depends on the attitude of the cop who approaches you. Anything from ‘Stay safe and get some rest’ to ‘you will respect my authority and “you can go sleep at home tonight if you can get up and (drive) away” or I’ll arrest you for (take your pick of charges)’.