Oregon’s approach to sleeping in your car is shaped by a mix of state laws, local ordinances, and property-specific rules. While there is no statewide ban on car sleeping, where and how you do it can make the difference between a peaceful night and a citation. Here’s what you need to know to stay on the right side of the law.
Is Sleeping in Your Car Legal in Oregon?
No statewide prohibition: Oregon does not have a law that outright bans sleeping in your car. However, local rules and property restrictions can make it illegal in certain places.
Rest areas: You may sleep in your car at official highway rest stops for up to 12 hours within a 24-hour period. Camping (setting up tents or staying longer) is not allowed, and overnight stays beyond this time limit are prohibited.
Public streets and city property: Many cities, including Portland, have ordinances that restrict or ban overnight car sleeping on public streets or in certain neighborhoods. Enforcement and rules vary by city.
Private property: With the owner’s permission, you can sleep in your car on private property, such as a business or church parking lot. Some cities, like Eugene, have formal programs that allow overnight vehicle sleeping in designated lots with amenities.
Where You Can (and Cannot) Sleep in Your Car
| Location Type | Is Car Sleeping Legal? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Highway rest areas | Yes (up to 12 hours) | No camping, tents, or extended stays |
| Public streets (most cities) | Often No | Many cities ban or restrict overnight sleeping |
| Private property | Yes (with permission) | Owner must consent; some cities require registration |
| Parks and beaches | Usually No | Most prohibit overnight parking or sleeping |
| Designated safe lots | Yes (where available) | Eugene and some cities offer programs for unhoused people |
Local Ordinances and Variations
Portland: Citywide bans on sleeping in vehicles on public streets, with limited exceptions for safe parking programs.
Eugene: Permits overnight car sleeping in certain lots (up to six vehicles per site) with property owner permission and city registration. Rest stops may allow more.
Washington County: Allows overnight lodging in a vehicle on public rights-of-way for up to 48 hours at the same location; other restrictions apply.
Other cities: Some prohibit any overnight sleeping in cars outside of designated RV parks or private property with permission.
Key Rules and Tips
Always check for local signs and ordinances before settling in. Rules can change block by block, especially in urban areas.
Never sleep in your car on state beaches, parks, or other public lands unless specifically allowed—most prohibit overnight stays.
Rest areas are for short-term rest, not camping. Exceeding the 12-hour limit or setting up camp can result in police contact.
Private property is safest if you have the owner’s consent. Some cities require the property to be registered with the city for overnight sleeping.
Look for city “safe parking” programs if you are unhoused; they offer legal, supervised places to sleep in your car with access to restrooms and trash services.
What Happens If You Break the Rules?
Warnings or citations: Most enforcement starts with a warning, but repeat violations can result in fines or your vehicle being towed.
Trespassing: Sleeping on private property without permission can lead to trespassing charges.
Public safety: Police may check on you for safety reasons, especially if you’re parked in an unsafe or high-traffic area.
Sleeping in your car in Oregon is not illegal statewide, but the rules depend heavily on where you park and for how long. Rest areas allow short-term rest, private property with permission is generally safe, and some cities offer designated safe parking programs.
However, many cities ban overnight car sleeping on public streets or in certain areas. Always check local ordinances and posted signs to avoid fines and ensure a safe, legal night’s rest
Sources
[1] https://www.thezebra.com/resources/car-insurance/is-it-illegal-to-sleep-in-your-car/
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/OregonCoast/comments/11skm2o/overnight_parkingsleeping_in_the_car/
[3] https://dioceseofvaranasi.org.in/illegal-to-sleep-in-your-car-states-where-it-s-not-allowed
[4] https://www.portlandcopwatch.org/OR_Homeless_Rights.pdf
[5] https://eugene.municipal.codes/EC/4.816
