ORS § 783.170 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.170
783.170 Limitation of actions
Status: in_force

All actions against a boat or vessel under ORS 783.010 (Claims for which liens accorded) to 783.160 (Sale of appurtenances for fractional share of boat or vessel) shall be commenced within one year after the cause of action has accrued.

Source: Section 783.170 — Limitation of actions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.590 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.590
777.590 Authority to issue and sell revenue bonds
Status: repealed

(1) ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) to 777.590 (Authority to issue and sell revenue bonds) are complete authority for the issuance and sale of revenue bonds and refunding revenue bonds. Any restrictions, limitations, conditions or procedure provided by other statutes relating to issuance and sale of bonds or other obligations do not apply to the issuance and sale of revenue bonds and refunding revenue bonds under ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) to 777.590 (Authority to issue and sell revenue bonds) .

(2) The lease of any property of the port and the pledging of revenues therefrom to the payment of the costs and expenses enumerated by ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) , and to the payment of principal and interest on bonds issued and sold under ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) to 777.590 (Authority to issue and sell revenue bonds) , shall be considered to further the public interest within the meaning of ORS 271.310 (Transfer or lease of real property owned or controlled by political subdivision) . [1955 c.423 §8; 1959 c.337 §7; 1965 c.223 §8; 1971 c.728 §91; 2005 c.443 §27]

Note: Sections 1 and 2, chapter 423, Oregon Laws 2023, provide:

Sec. 1. Cancellation of certain taxes and interest. (1) Outstanding ad valorem property taxes, and interest on the taxes, assessed on real property, the ownership of which was transferred, from the federal government to a port district formed under ORS chapter 777, by the assessor of the county in which the real property is located, are hereby canceled.

(2) Ad valorem property taxes, and interest on the taxes, assessed on real property owned by a port without a working waterfront formed under ORS chapter 777, that have been outstanding since a date prior to January 1, 2012, are hereby canceled, provided the tax collector of the county in which the property is located has exhausted all remedies provided by law for collection of the taxes and interest. [2023 c.423 §1]

Sec. 2. Section 1 of this 2023 Act is repealed on January 2, 2025. [2023 c.423 §2]

Source: Section 777.590 — Authority to issue and sell revenue bonds; leasing property and pledging revenues , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.005 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.005
777.005 Definitions for ORS 777.005 to 777.725 and 777.915 to 777.953
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 777.005 (Definitions for ORS 777.005 to 777.725 and 777.915 to 777.953) to 777.725 (Borrowing money to pay bonus) and 777.915 (Definitions for ORS 777.915 to 777.953) to 777.953 (Annexation) , unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Board” means the board of commissioners of a port.

(2) “County” means the county in which the port, or the greater portion of the area of the port, is located.

(3) “County board” means the county court or the board of county commissioners of the county.

(4) “County clerk” means the county clerk of the county.

(5) “Port” means a port formed pursuant to ORS 777.010 (Areas that may be included in port) and 777.050 (Operation and effect of proclamation) .

(6) “Owner” or “landowner” means the record owner of real property or the vendee of a recorded contract of purchase of real property, if any, to the exclusion of the vendor. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §1; 1983 c.83 §109; 2003 c.802 §148]

Source: Section 777.005 — Definitions for ORS 777.005 to 777.725 and 777.915 to 777.953 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.437 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.437
777.437 Filing boundary change with county assessor and Department of Revenue
Status: in_force

For purposes of ad valorem taxation, a boundary change must be filed in final approved form with the county assessor and the Department of Revenue as provided in ORS 308.225 (Boundary changes) . [2001 c.138 §52]

Source: Section 777.437 — Filing boundary change with county assessor and Department of Revenue , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.120 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.120
783.120 Judgment on undertaking
Status: in_force

If an undertaking with surety was given according to ORS 783.090 (Discharge of boat or vessel on giving of undertaking) and judgment rendered in favor of the plaintiff, a judgment shall also be rendered upon the undertaking, and execution issued for the amount of judgment and costs in favor of the plaintiff, against the principal and security in such undertaking.

Source: Section 783.120 — Judgment on undertaking; issuance of execution , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.460 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.460
777.460 Refunding bonds
Status: in_force

(1) The refunding bonds shall bear interest at a rate determined by the board, payable semiannually, and shall be in such denominations and mature at such times as determined by the board, but the bonds must all mature not later than 30 years after their date of issue.

(2) The board may provide that the bonds are subject to call and redemption prior to maturity, in numerical order, in inverse numerical order or in the entire amount of the issue outstanding. The bonds may be called only on interest-paying dates.

(3) Before calling bonds containing optional provisions, the port shall publish a notice of call in one issue of a newspaper specializing in financial matters published in New York, New York, at least 30 days before such interest-paying date.

(4) Callable refunding bonds, at the option of the board, may be called and retired or may be refunded again in accordance with the terms of the bonds and the provisions of ORS 777.455 (Authority to issue refunding bonds for specified purposes) to 777.505 (Delivery of bonds to purchaser) .

(5) Both the principal of the bonds and the interest thereon, when due, shall be paid in lawful money of the United States at the office of the treasurer of the issuing port, or at the fiscal agency of the State of Oregon in the City and State of New York, at the option of the board. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §78; 1981 c.94 §54]

Source: Section 777.460 — Refunding bonds; terms and conditions; bond call , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.775 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.775
777.775 Status of export trading corporation
Status: in_force

(1) An export trading corporation is not a contracting agency for the purposes of ORS 279A.055 (Personal services contracts) , 279A.065 (Model rules generally) , 279A.070 (Rules) , 279A.075 (Delegation) , 279A.100 (Affirmative action) , 279A.105 (Subcontracting to emerging small businesses or veteran-owned businesses) , 279A.120 (Preference for Oregon goods and services) , 279C.005 (Definitions) , 279C.100 (Definitions for ORS 279C.100 to 279C.125) to 279C.125 (Architectural, engineering, photogrammetric mapping, transportation planning and land surveying services selection process for local public improvements procured through state agency) , 279C.300 (Policy on competition) to 279C.470 (Compensation for contractor on contract declared void by court) and 279C.570 (Prompt payment policy) and ORS chapter 279B, except ORS 279B.025 (Procurement practices regarding recyclable and reusable goods) , 279B.235 (Condition concerning hours of labor) , 279B.240 (Exclusion of recycled oils prohibited) , 279B.270 (State contracting agencies to use recovered resources and recycled materials) , 279B.275 (Purchase of goods containing recycled polyethylene material) and 279B.280 (Use of recycled products when economically feasible) .

(2) An export trading corporation is not a public employer for the purposes of ORS chapters 238 and 238A. [1983 c.200 §16; 2003 c.733 §81; 2003 c.794 §331]

Source: Section 777.775 — Status of export trading corporation; application of certain laws , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.763 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.763
777.763 Export trading corporation
Status: in_force

(1) Any port may form an export trading corporation. Proceedings to form an export trading corporation shall be initiated by a resolution adopted by the commissioners of the port proposing the formation of an export trading corporation and fixing a time and place for a public hearing on the resolution. The hearing shall be held not less than 30 days after adoption of the resolution.

(2) Notice of the public hearing shall be published in one or more newspapers of general circulation within the port not less than 15 days prior to the date fixed for the public hearing.

(3) Any person may appear at the public hearing and present oral or written statements for or against the proposal to form an export trading corporation.

(4) After the public hearing, if the commissioners of the port determine the formation of an export trading corporation would promote the purposes of ORS 294.125 (Investment of funds authorized by order of governing body) , 294.316 (Exclusions from scope) , 646.740 (Permitted activities) and 777.755 (Legislative findings and policy) to 777.800 (Annual report) , the board may by ordinance form an export trading corporation.

(5) An ordinance forming an export trading corporation shall include:

(a) The name of the export trading corporation.

(b) The names of the initial board of directors.

(c) The office address and the name and address of the initial registered agent.

(6) Unless a later date is specified, the ordinance shall take effect and the export trading corporation formed on the 30th day after enactment of the ordinance. The ordinance shall be subject to the powers of initiative and referendum vested in the electors of the port.

(7) A certified copy of the ordinance shall be filed with the Secretary of State.

(8) The port by ordinance may dissolve the export trading corporation. The ordinance shall include a plan for the dissolution and liquidation of the assets of the export trading corporation. Any surplus assets remaining after payment of the indebtedness of the export trading corporation shall be transferred to the port. [1983 c.200 §3]

Source: Section 777.763 — Export trading corporation; formation by port; hearing; dissolution of corporation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 780.040 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 780 / Section 780.040
780.040 When landowner may construct wharf
Status: in_force

(1) The owner of any land lying upon any navigable stream or other like water, and within the corporate limits of any incorporated town or within the boundaries of any port, may construct a wharf upon the same, and extend the wharf into the stream or other like water beyond low-water mark so far as may be necessary for the use and accommodation of any ships, boats or vessels engaged exclusively in the receipt and discharge of goods or merchandise or in the performance of governmental functions upon the stream or other like water.

(2) As used in this section, “wharf” does not include new lands created upon submersible or submerged lands by artificial fill or deposit. [Amended by 1963 c.125 §1; 1973 c.328 §2]

Source: Section 780.040 — When landowner may construct wharf , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors780.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.590 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.590
783.590 Lowering of smokestacks of vessels navigating upper Willamette
Status: in_force

Any person or corporation operating any steamboat or other watercraft upon the Willamette River above the City of Portland, shall so construct the smokestacks upon such steamboat or other watercraft with hinges so arranged that the smokestacks thereon can be lowered to a level with the pilot house upon such steamboat or other watercraft when necessary to pass under any bridge at any time constructed across the Willamette River.

Source: Section 783.590 — Lowering of smokestacks of vessels navigating upper Willamette , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.405 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.405
777.405 Deposit and disbursement of moneys
Status: in_force

(1) Money of a port shall be deposited in one or more banks designated by the board. Funds shall be withdrawn only when previously ordered by the board, upon a check signed and countersigned by such persons as may be authorized by resolution of the board.

(2) A receipt or voucher showing clearly the nature and items covered by each check drawn shall be kept on file. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §33; 1989 c.428 §1]

Source: Section 777.405 — Deposit and disbursement of moneys; financial records , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.150 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.150
783.150 Distribution of proceeds of sale
Status: in_force

In the distribution of the proceeds of sale, claims of a prior class shall be paid entire before any payment shall be made upon claims of a subsequent class. When the money to be applied to any class is insufficient to pay all the claims of that class, it shall be apportioned ratably among the claims of that class.

Source: Section 783.150 — Distribution of proceeds of sale , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.325 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.325
776.325 Qualifications of licensees
Status: in_force

(1) No person shall be licensed to pilot under this chapter unless the person:

(a) Was licensed as a trainee or licensee prior to submitting an application to be licensed to pilot and has met the training requirements established by the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots; and

(b) Possesses the requisite skill and the experience as a navigator and pilot, as demonstrated by satisfactory performance on such written examinations as the board may prescribe, together with practical knowledge of the currents, tides, soundings, bearings and distances of the several shoals, rocks, bars, points of landings, lights and fog signals of or pertaining to the navigation of the pilotage ground for which application is made for a license to pilot.

(2) An applicant for a license over any river pilotage ground must have at least six months’ continuous experience, as determined by the board, as a trainee on vessels subject to ORS 776.405 (License required) piloting oceangoing vessels over the pilotage ground for which application is made, prior to making application for a license, and must have had the necessary experience in handling oceangoing vessels through the bridges, under varying conditions with and without towboats.

(3) An applicant for a license on bar pilotage grounds shall satisfy the board that the applicant has means available for boarding and leaving vessels which the applicant may be called upon to pilot. [1957 c.448 §15; 1973 c.827 §82; 1981 c.88 §8; 1983 c.313 §2; 1985 c.32 §2; 1993 c.796 §8]

Source: Section 776.325 — Qualifications of licensees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.715 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.715
777.715 Ports may pay bonuses in aid of water transportation and may charter vessels
Status: in_force

(1) By the payment of bonuses to a person engaged or preparing to engage in the operation of water transportation lines, a port may:

(a) Aid in establishing water transportation lines between the port and any other domestic or foreign port or ports; and

(b) Aid in establishing water transportation lines on the interior rivers of this state, on the rivers between Washington and Oregon, or on the rivers of Washington and Idaho reached by navigation from Oregon’s rivers.

(2) A port may charter vessels. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §99]

Source: Section 777.715 — Ports may pay bonuses in aid of water transportation and may charter vessels , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.350 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.350
783.350 Nonresident owners
Status: in_force

If the owner of the vessel is nonresident of and not within Oregon, service of the summons and complaint shall be made upon the master or person in charge of the vessel, with the same force and effect as though made by publication. In such event the owner shall be required to appear and answer to the complaint within the same time as though the owner were served personally. In such event no personal judgment against the owner shall be rendered in the action, but only an order of sale of the property attached, or, in event of such property being released upon undertaking, then judgment shall be rendered against the obligors thereon. In the event of the vessel belonging to nonresidents, defects in the names of parties defendant shall not in any respect affect the validity of the proceedings or of any judgment rendered therein.

Source: Section 783.350 — Nonresident owners; service; judgment; designation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.520 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.520
783.520 Harboring and secretion of seamen
Status: in_force

No person shall knowingly and with manifest intention to deprive the owner or master of any ship or vessel of the services of any seaman, harbor or secrete, or by any means aid in harboring or secreting with the intention aforesaid, any seaman mentioned in ORS 783.510 (Enticement of seamen to desert or leave ship) .

Source: Section 783.520 — Harboring and secretion of seamen , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.793 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.793
777.793 Disclosure of commercial or financial information prohibited
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, no officer, agent or employee of an export trading corporation shall disclose commercial or financial information concerning an export trading project.

(2) Commercial or financial information may be disclosed:

(a) In a judicial proceeding when disclosure is ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction;

(b) With the consent of the persons whose interests are affected by disclosure;

(c) By an officer, agent or employee of an export trading corporation acting within the scope of employment, as prescribed by rules of the board; or

(d) When the board finds the information would not reasonably be considered confidential, the export trading corporation has not obliged itself in good faith not to disclose the information and disclosure is in the public interest. [1983 c.200 §9]

Source: Section 777.793 — Disclosure of commercial or financial information prohibited; exception , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.520 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.520
776.520 Tariffs limiting liability of licensees, trainees or organizations
Status: in_force

Licensees and trainees are authorized to limit their liability and the liability of any organization of pilots to which they belong by tariffs approved by the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots containing substantially the terms and provisions of the following form:

The provisions of ORS 776.510 (Declaration of legislative intent relating to liability of licensees, trainees and organizations) and 776.540 (Security required of licensees and trainees) hereby are incorporated into and made a part of this tariff. By reason of the option granted by ORS 776.510 (Declaration of legislative intent relating to liability of licensees, trainees and organizations) , the rates and charges named in this tariff do not include the cost of marine insurance insuring the licensee, trainee and any organization of pilots to which the licensee or trainee belongs, the vessel, its owners, agents or operators from the consequences of negligence or errors in judgment of the licensees, trainees or organizations of pilots.

However, upon reasonable notice to the licensees in writing from the vessel, its master, owners, agents or operators, the licensees parties hereto will procure such insurance on a “trip” basis in an amount equal to the value of the vessel and its cargo, or such other amount as may be agreed upon between the licensees and the vessel, its master, owners, agents or operators, insuring the licensees and the organizations of pilots to which they belong against all claims or demands arising from or based upon, directly or indirectly, pilotage of the vessel. The premium for such insurance shall be assessed in addition to the rates and charges specified herein.

The election of the vessel, its master, owners, agents or operators not to request licensees parties hereto to procure such insurance and thereby to elect to have the licensees parties hereto perform services on the rates and charges specified herein shall constitute a binding and irrevocable agreement on the part of the vessel, its master, owners, agents or operators to the terms and conditions of the following:

It is understood and agreed, and is the essence of the contract under which services of the licensee are tendered to and accepted by the vessel, its master, operators and owners, that:

(1) The services rendered hereunder are rendered by a licensee;

(2) The services of any individual licensee have been voluntarily accepted and are voluntarily rendered pursuant to the election authorized by ORS 776.510 (Declaration of legislative intent relating to liability of licensees, trainees and organizations) ;

(3) Such services are advisory in nature only, the master of the vessel remaining at all times in full command of the vessel and empowered to relieve the licensee of duties;

(4) The services of the licensee and, if applicable, trainee are accepted on the express understanding that when the licensee and trainee go aboard the vessel the licensee and trainee become the servants of the vessel and its owners and operators. Except as to such personal liability and rights over as may arise by reason of the willful misconduct or gross negligence of the licensee or trainee, the master, owners and operators of the vessel expressly covenant and agree:

(a) Not to assert directly or indirectly, any personal liability against the licensee, trainee, any organization of pilots to which the licensee or trainee belongs, and any members of such organization;

(b) Not to respond in damage (including any rights over) arising out of or connected with, directly or indirectly, any damage, loss or expense sustained by the vessel, its master, owners, operators and crew, and any third parties (including cargo), even though resulting from acts or omissions of any organization of pilots to which the licensee or trainee belongs, from acts or omissions of its members, or any acts or omissions of the licensee or trainee; and

(c) To defend, indemnify and hold harmless the licensee, trainee, any organization of pilots to which the licensee or trainee belongs, and any members of such organization, from any claims whatsoever for damages, loss or expense arising out of, or connected with any acts or omissions of the licensee, trainee or organization of pilots which relate, directly or indirectly, to pilotage of the vessel;

(5) The master, owners and operators of the vessel shall not be liable to indemnify and hold harmless the licensee, trainee and any organization of pilots to an extent greater than the amount to which the liability of the vessel, its owners and operators, is limited by reason of contract, bill of lading or statute, including but not limited to, the Limitation of Liability Act (46 U.S.C. 181-189), the Harter Act (46 U.S.C. 190-195), the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act (46 U.S.C. 1300-1315), and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1321); and

(6) The fees charged for the services rendered by the licensee and trainee have been computed and are assessed in accordance with and based upon the above stipulations.

[1959 c.404 §3; 1973 c.650 §3; 1983 c.330 §5; 1993 c.796 §18]

Source: Section 776.520 — Tariffs limiting liability of licensees, trainees or organizations , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.620 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.620
783.620 Discharge of ballast in navigable waters
Status: in_force

Except as provided in ORS 783.635 (Discharge of ballast water prohibited) , a person may not discharge the ballast of any vessel into the navigable portions or channels of any of the bays, harbors or rivers of this state, or within the jurisdiction of this state, so as to injuriously affect such portions or channels of such bays, harbors or rivers, or to obstruct navigation thereof. [Formerly 783.600]

Source: Section 783.620 — Discharge of ballast in navigable waters , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.530 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.530
777.530 Special assessments for local improvement
Status: in_force

(1) When a port constructs or acquires a local improvement which the port is authorized to construct or acquire, the board of that port may levy special assessments against property within the port in proportion to the benefits such property will receive on account of the construction or acquisition of the local improvement. However, before proceeding to construct or acquire a local improvement for which special assessments will be levied, the board shall adopt an ordinance that:

(a) Describes the local improvement to be constructed or acquired and the part of the work to be undertaken immediately;

(b) Contains a preliminary estimate of the probable cost of the local improvement;

(c) Determines the manner of financing the local improvement. The board may provide that the cost of the construction or acquisition shall be paid in part by assessments against the property directly benefited and in part out of general funds, ad valorem tax levies, the proceeds of the sale of bonds, service charges or any combination of such sources. The determination of the board as to the proportion of cost allocation shall be based on its sound discretion;

(d) Describes one or more assessment districts containing the properties against which the cost of the local improvement will be assessed;

(e) Provides for the method of assessment, the recording of assessment liens on properties that are directly benefited and for the making of supplemental assessments and rebates;

(f) Contains provision for a notice to be mailed to each affected property owner announcing the intention of the board to construct or acquire a local improvement, to create one or more assessment districts and to assess benefited property for a part or all of the cost; and

(g) Provides for a hearing not sooner than 20 days after the mailing of the notices described in paragraph (f) of this subsection at which affected property owners may appear to support or object to the proposed local improvement and assessment. The board shall consider such objections and may adopt, correct, modify or abandon the proposed local improvement or assessments.

(2) Special assessments in the port shall, so far as practicable, be apportioned within the port in accordance with the special and peculiar benefit each lot or parcel of land receives from the construction or acquisition of a local improvement.

(3) Special assessment districts authorized by this section may be established for, and limited to, financing the costs of planning and engineering required for the construction or acquisition of a local improvement.

(4) As used in this section, “local improvement” has the meaning given that term by ORS 223.001 (Definitions) . [1989 c.644 §2; 1991 c.902 §117]

Note: 777.530 (Special assessments for local improvement) and 777.535 (Installment payment of special assessment) were added to and made a part of ORS chapter 777 by legislative action but were not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 777.530 — Special assessments for local improvement; assessment ordinance; assessment districts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.235 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.235
778.235 Causes of vacancies
Status: in_force

(1) If a commissioner appointed pursuant to ORS 778.215 (Appointment) refuses to serve, ceases to have the qualifications required by ORS 778.210 (Qualifications of members) (1) or fails to attend for the period of 60 successive days any of the regular or special meetings of the board regularly and duly called and held, the commissioner’s place on the board is vacant.

(2) The board may grant a leave of absence not exceeding three months to a commissioner unable to attend meetings of the board by reason of illness or continued absence from the City of Portland. [Amended by 1961 c.469 §2; 1971 c.728 §131]

Source: Section 778.235 — Causes of vacancies; leaves of absence , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.915 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.915
777.915 Definitions for ORS 777.915 to 777.953
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 777.915 (Definitions for ORS 777.915 to 777.953) to 777.953 (Annexation) , unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Board” means the board of commissioners of the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay.

(2) “Coos Bay rail link” means a railroad right-of-way, including spur lines, appurtenances, facilities and related property within the railroad right-of-way, that connects the station of Danebo in Lane County with the station of Coquille in Coos County.

(3) “Port” means the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay. [1987 c.565 §2; 2011 c.437 §1]

Source: Section 777.915 — Definitions for ORS 777.915 to 777.953 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.330 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.330
783.330 Attachment against vessel
Status: in_force

The person so injured may at the time of filing the complaint, or at any time subsequent thereto, cause an attachment to issue against the vessel. The clerk of the circuit court shall issue a writ of attachment directing the sheriff of the county to levy upon, seize and take the vessel; but such attachment shall only issue upon the filing by the plaintiff of a written motion for such attachment, together with an undertaking in a sum equal in amount to the sum demanded in the complaint. The undertaking shall be executed by one or more sureties, and shall be so conditioned that the signers thereof shall be liable in the sum named therein to the owners of the vessel if the attachment is wrongful or without sufficient cause. The sureties shall in the aggregate justify in double the amount of the undertaking.

Source: Section 783.330 — Attachment against vessel; motion and undertaking , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.755 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.755
777.755 Legislative findings and policy
Status: in_force

The Legislative Assembly hereby finds that:

(1) The geographical location of this state, its maritime resources, its skilled labor force and the availability of land for industrial and commercial development provide an opportunity for the citizens of this state to expand participation in and increase the benefits from international trade and commerce.

(2) The development and operation of international trade and commerce is in the public interest because that trade and commerce promotes the commerce of this state, creates and retains jobs and diversifies the economy of this state.

(3) Export trading corporations, encouraged by federal law, provide a means to develop and facilitate international trade and commerce and the export and import of goods and services through this state by furnishing services necessary to international trade and by the purchase, sale and financing of goods and services.

(4) Export trading corporations can facilitate the expansion of total exports and imports and are an important mechanism for experimentation in the development of innovative international trade programs beneficial to local, state, regional and national economic needs.

(5) Export trading corporations can provide a means for meeting this state’s need for well-developed export and import trade intermediaries and can achieve economies of scale and acquire expertise enabling them to export and import goods and services or provide export and import trade services at a reasonable cost to producers. [1983 c.200 §1]

Source: Section 777.755 — Legislative findings and policy , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.600 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.600
776.600 Restrictions on licensee’s or trainee’s financial interest in boat or equipment assisting vessel piloted by licensee or trainee
Status: in_force

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, a licensee or trainee may not pilot a vessel on the Coos Bay bar pilotage ground or the Yaquina Bay bar pilotage ground if the licensee or trainee, or an immediate family member of the licensee or trainee, has any financial interest in a boat or equipment assisting the vessel in entering or exiting the bay.

(b) The Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots shall adopt rules allowing a licensee or trainee who is prohibited from piloting a vessel under paragraph (a) of this subsection to pilot the vessel in an emergency, and fixing rates for pilotage under this paragraph.

(2) This section does not prohibit a licensee or trainee from piloting a vessel if the licensee or trainee, or an immediate family member of the licensee or trainee, owns stock in a corporation registered on a national securities exchange that owns boats or equipment assisting ships on the Coos Bay bar pilotage ground or the Yaquina Bay bar pilotage ground. [2012 c.55 §5]

Source: Section 776.600 — Restrictions on licensee’s or trainee’s financial interest in boat or equipment assisting vessel piloted by licensee or trainee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.090 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.090
777.090 Agreements between ports
Status: in_force

A port may enter into agreements with other ports to exercise jointly all powers granted to any of the agreeing ports. The agreement may authorize joint acquisition of real property or other interests in land and may provide for the allocation among the agreeing ports of expenses incurred or revenues received in the performance of the agreement. [1981 c.879 §10]

Note: 777.090 (Agreements between ports) to 777.100 (Annual report to legislative committees concerning agreements made under ORS 777.090) were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 777 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 777.090 — Agreements between ports; allocation of expenses and revenues , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.575 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.575
777.575 Sale of bonds
Status: in_force

(1) The board may from time to time sell revenue bonds authorized pursuant to ORS 777.565 (Resolution or ordinance authorizing revenue bonds and creating special trust fund) , as provided by this section.

(2) Except as provided by subsections (3) and (4) of this section, the bonds shall be advertised for sale at least once each week for not less than two successive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation published within the port or, if there is no such newspaper, then in a newspaper published in the county. Bids shall be in writing and be sealed and, unless the bidder is the State of Oregon, accompanied by a certified check or a cashier’s check upon a bank doing business in this state in an amount not less than two percent of the par value of the bonds. Bids shall be opened publicly at the time and place specified in the advertisement. If the bids are not satisfactory, the board may reject any and all bids and may readvertise for bids in the manner provided by this subsection.

(3) The board may sell any of the bonds to the federal government or any agency thereof at private sale without advertisement or calling for bids.

(4) Revenue bonds including revenue bonds to refund such bonds of a port may be sold to any person either at a public or private sale without advertisement or calling for bids as the board may in its sole discretion determine. [1955 c.423 §5; 1959 c.337 §4; 1965 c.223 §5; 1967 c.416 §1; 1971 c.728 §89; 1981 c.94 §56]

Source: Section 777.575 — Sale of bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.425 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.425
776.425 Authority of licensees generally
Status: in_force

Within the scope of the license, a licensee may pilot any vessel and demand and receive therefor the compensation allowed by law. [1957 c.448 §20(1); 1973 c.650 §2; 1985 c.32 §3; 1993 c.796 §13]

Source: Section 776.425 — Authority of licensees generally; compensation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 780.030 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 780 / Section 780.030
780.030 Channels improved are highways free to navigation
Status: in_force

All channels of rivers and watercourses made navigable or the navigation of which is improved, as contemplated by ORS 780.010 (Stream improvement authorized) , shall be public highways, and shall be free to all crafts navigating them. [Amended by 2005 c.22 §510]

Source: Section 780.030 — Channels improved are highways free to navigation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors780.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.787 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.787
777.787 Chief executive officer of export trading corporation
Status: in_force

(1) The board may appoint a chief executive officer who shall be responsible for the administration of the business affairs of an export trading corporation. The chief executive officer shall perform such duties as the board may prescribe.

(2) The chief executive officer shall hold office for an indefinite term and may be removed from office only by the affirmative vote of a majority of the board. Removal of a chief executive officer may be reconsidered by the board but is otherwise final and not subject to appeal. [1983 c.200 §7]

Source: Section 777.787 — Chief executive officer of export trading corporation; appointment; removal , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.116 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.116
777.116 Port may acquire real and personal property
Status: in_force

(1) A port may acquire, by condemnation or other lawful method, hold, use, enjoy and convey, lease or otherwise dispose of real and personal property, or any interest therein, necessary or convenient in carrying out its powers. Condemnation proceedings shall be conducted as provided by ORS chapter 35.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) A port may not purchase real property unless the port first obtains an appraisal of the fair market value of the property from a state certified appraiser who is disinterested in the transaction and independent of the port.

(b) If the appraisal obtained under paragraph (a) of this subsection concludes that the value of the property exceeds $2,000,000, then the port must obtain an additional appraisal of the fair market value of the property before purchasing the property. The appraiser who conducts the additional appraisal must be a state certified appraiser but need not be disinterested in the transaction or independent of the port.

(c) Nothing in this subsection requires the port to purchase the real property at the appraised value.

(d) The appraisals obtained under this section may not be admitted as evidence in any condemnation proceeding.

(3) A port may purchase real or personal property upon a contractual basis when the period of time allowed for payment under the contract does not exceed 20 years.

(4) As used in this section, “state certified appraiser” has the meaning given that term in ORS 674.010 (Definitions) . [1971 c.728 §17 (enacted in lieu of 777.115, 777.185 and 777.187); 1973 c.127 §2; 1975 c.43 §1; 1979 c.17 §1; 1991 c.5 §45; 1993 c.201 §1; 2017 c.86 §1]

Source: Section 777.116 — Port may acquire real and personal property; appraisal by state certified appraiser required; purchase contract limited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.415 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.415
776.415 Compensation of licensees determined by law
Status: in_force

No licensee shall demand or receive any greater, lesser or different compensation for piloting a vessel upon any of the pilotage grounds than is allowed by law. [1957 c.448 §25(2); 1993 c.796 §12]

Source: Section 776.415 — Compensation of licensees determined by law , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.605 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.605
777.605 Special elections
Status: in_force

When a board desires to hold an election for the purpose of submitting to the electors of the port any measure that may lawfully be submitted to the electors, at any meeting called in accordance with its rules or the statutes governing the board, the board may adopt a resolution calling a special election. In the resolution the board may describe in general terms the measures which are to be submitted at the election. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §92; 1973 c.796 §76; 1975 c.647 §52; 1983 c.350 §326]

Source: Section 777.605 — Special elections , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.783 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.783
777.783 Board meetings
Status: in_force

(1) The board may hold regular meetings at the time and place fixed by the rules of the board. A majority of the members of the board constitutes a quorum for the transaction of business.

(2) Special meetings may be held when called by the president of the board or by a majority of the members of the board in the manner prescribed by the rules of the board. [1983 c.200 §5]

Source: Section 777.783 — Board meetings; rules; quorum , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.405 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.405
776.405 License required
Status: in_force

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Except as set forth in paragraph (c) of this subsection, a person may not pilot any vessel upon any of the pilotage grounds established under ORS 776.025 (Description of bar and river pilotage grounds) or 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) without being a licensee under this chapter or a trainee under the onboard supervision of a licensee under this chapter.

(b) Except as set forth in paragraph (c) of this subsection, a person may not pilot any vessel in the Columbia River bar precautionary zone, either to enter or depart the Columbia River bar pilotage ground, except pursuant to instructions from a licensee under this chapter for the Columbia River bar pilotage ground, provided however that the master of a vessel transiting the Columbia River bar precautionary zone remains at all times in full command of the vessel and is responsible to take all reasonable steps to safely navigate the Columbia River bar precautionary zone.

(c) Paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subsection do not apply to:

(A) The master of a vessel under fishery, recreational or coastwise endorsement provided under 46 U.S.C. chapter 121;

(B) A vessel registered with the State Marine Board or a similar licensing agency of another state;

(C) The master of a foreign registered fishing or recreational vessel, exempted by the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots, of not more than 100 feet in length or 250 gross tons international; or

(D) United States flag towing vessels under 200 gross tons domestic and their towed barges of 10,000 gross tons domestic or less, excluding tank vessels as defined by ORS 468B.300 (Definitions for ORS 468B.300 to 468B.500) , that are engaged in the foreign trade between British Columbia and the Coos Bay bar pilotage ground established by ORS 776.025 (Description of bar and river pilotage grounds) (3), provided that the towing vessel is under the navigational control of a person holding the federal mariner license required for the towing vessel when operating under a coastwise endorsement.

(2) A licensee under this chapter is at all times the servant of the vessel being piloted and its owners and operators. [1957 c.448 §25(1); 1973 c.650 §1; 1983 c.330 §3; 1985 c.34 §3; 1991 c.234 §3; 1993 c.796 §11; 2001 c.104 §296; 2011 c.157 §4; 2017 c.292 §1]

Source: Section 776.405 — License required; exemptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.100 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.100
777.100 Annual report to legislative committees concerning agreements made under ORS 777.090
Status: in_force

Annually, the directors of any agreeing ports and the Director of the Department of State Lands shall report to appropriate legislative committees the nature of all agreements made under ORS 777.090 (Agreements between ports) and accomplishments thereunder. [1981 c.879 §11; 2007 c.354 §26]

Note: See note under 777.090 (Agreements between ports) .

Source: Section 777.100 — Annual report to legislative committees concerning agreements made under ORS 777.090 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.190 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.190
777.190 Ordinances for policing or regulating of port property
Status: in_force

A port may by ordinance in accordance with ORS 198.510 (Definitions for ORS 198.510 to 198.600) to 198.600 (Penalty for violation of regulations) make, modify or abolish regulations to provide for the policing, control, regulation and management of property owned, operated, maintained or controlled by the port. A port, for the purpose of enforcing such ordinances, may appoint peace officers who shall have the same authority, for the purpose of the enforcement of the ordinances, as other peace officers. [1955 c.699 §§2,3,4; 1959 c.255 §1; 1971 c.268 §21; 1971 c.728 §42]

Source: Section 777.190 — Ordinances for policing or regulating of port property , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.800 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.800
777.800 Annual report
Status: in_force

An export trading corporation shall report annually to the port on the operations of the export trading corporation. A copy of the report shall be filed by the export trading corporation with the Secretary of State. [1983 c.200 §15]

Note: Sections 13 and 14, chapter 746, Oregon Laws 2007, provide:

Sec. 13. (1) In addition to amounts authorized under ORS 286.505 to 286.545 (2005 Edition) or pursuant to ORS 286A.035 (Bond budget authorization) , the State Treasurer, at the request of the Director of the Oregon Business Development Department, may issue lottery bonds pursuant to ORS 286A.560 (Definitions for ORS 286A.560 to 286A.585 and 327.700 to 327.711) to 286A.585 (Lottery bonds for community sports facilities) :

(a) In an amount of up to $5 million for payment of the expenses of the Coos Bay Channel Project; and

(b) In an additional amount to be estimated by the State Treasurer for payment of bond-related costs of the Oregon Department of Administrative Services, the Oregon Business Development Department and the State Treasurer.

(2) The director shall request that the State Treasurer issue the amount of bonds described in subsection (1)(a) of this section, at the request of the primary sponsor, to transfer in the biennium beginning July 1, 2007, up to $5 million in net proceeds of lottery bonds to the Coos Bay Channel Fund established in section 15, chapter 746, Oregon Laws 2007, for distribution to the primary sponsor after the director finds that the primary sponsor has taken action pursuant to the grant agreement required in section 14, chapter 746, Oregon Laws 2007, that triggers the distribution of bond proceeds described in this subsection. [2007 c.746 §13; 2009 c.900 §1; 2013 c.754 §1; 2015 c.815 §3; 2019 c.671 §42; 2021 c.682 §54]

Sec. 14. (1) The Director of the Oregon Business Development Department shall enter into one or more grant agreements with the primary sponsor that require the Oregon Business Development Department to disburse, over the course of the project, an aggregate principal amount of $5 million for payment of the expenses of the Coos Bay Channel Project, from the Coos Bay Channel Fund established pursuant to section 15, chapter 746, Oregon Laws 2007, to the primary sponsor. The department shall make disbursements from the fund as soon as bond proceeds are deposited in the fund.

(2) The one or more grant agreements must establish appropriate triggers for the distribution of bond proceeds described in section 13 (2), chapter 746, Oregon Laws 2007, based on appropriate measures of progress in completion of the project that are satisfactory to the director and consistent with prudent financial practices that reflect sound stewardship of public resources.

(3) The State of Oregon and its agencies and departments are not liable to the lenders, vendors or contractors of the Oregon sponsors for any action or omission under sections 11 to 15, chapter 746, Oregon Laws 2007.

(4) By receipt of any part of net proceeds of lottery bonds described in section 13, chapter 746, Oregon Laws 2007, the primary sponsor agrees to indemnify the state and its agencies and departments to the fullest extent permitted by law for liability the state or its agencies and departments might incur in connection with any borrowing by the primary sponsor for the project.

(5) The director and the primary sponsor shall modify the existing grant agreement as may be necessary to incorporate the amendments to this section and section 13, chapter 746, Oregon Laws 2007, by sections 1 and 2, chapter 754, Oregon Laws 2013. [2007 c.746 §14; 2009 c.900 §2; 2013 c.754 §2; 2015 c.815 §4; 2016 c.66 §14; 2019 c.671 §43; 2021 c.682 §55]

Source: Section 777.800 — Annual report , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.113 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.113
777.113 Port assistance to public bodies within port boundaries
Status: in_force

Consistent with the purposes, functions and powers granted to it by law, a port may provide research or technical assistance for the planning, promotion or implementation of commercial, industrial or economic development projects upon request by any public body as defined in ORS 174.109 (“Public body” defined) within the boundaries of the port. [1977 c.209 §2; 2003 c.802 §151]

Note: 777.113 (Port assistance to public bodies within port boundaries) was added to and made a part of ORS chapter 777 by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 777.113 — Port assistance to public bodies within port boundaries , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.455 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.455
776.455 Exhibition of license on boarding vessel
Status: in_force

On boarding a vessel and if required by the master thereof, a licensee shall exhibit the license before the licensee is authorized to perform a piloting assignment. [1957 c.448 §19; 1993 c.796 §16]

Source: Section 776.455 — Exhibition of license on boarding vessel , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.140 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.140
783.140 Rights of other lien claimants
Status: in_force

Any other person having or claiming a lien against any boat or vessel in pursuance of ORS 783.010 (Claims for which liens accorded) may, at any time after the sale upon execution and before payment over of any surplus in the hands of the sheriff, commence an action against such boat by name, as if the same had not been sold, and serve notice thereof upon the former master, owner, agent or consignee. While such action is pending, the sheriff shall not pay over any surplus that may be in the sheriff’s hands to such master, owner, agent or consignee.

Source: Section 783.140 — Rights of other lien claimants , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.935 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.935
777.935 Board officers
Status: in_force

(1) The Governor shall designate one member of the board as president of the board, who shall hold that office until removed from it by the Governor. The president of the board shall have the powers and perform the duties usual to the office of president.

(2) The president of the board shall designate from the other members of the board a vice president, treasurer and secretary of the board, who shall hold those offices until removed from them by the president. Each officer shall have the powers and perform the duties usual to the respective offices. [1987 c.565 §9]

Source: Section 777.935 — Board officers , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.270 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.270
778.270 Initiative and referendum procedures
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in this section, the electors of the Port of Portland may exercise the powers of the initiative and referendum, with reference to ordinances of the board, in accordance with ORS 255.135 (Prospective petition) to 255.205 (Retention of petition materials) .

(2) A referendum petition shall be filed not more than 30 days after the date the ordinance is adopted. [1973 c.178 §5; 1983 c.350 §327]

Source: Section 778.270 — Initiative and referendum procedures , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.008 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.008
778.008 Port of Portland granted powers of ports formed under ORS chapter 777
Status: in_force

(1) ORS 777.005 (Definitions for ORS 777.005 to 777.725 and 777.915 to 777.953) to 777.050 (Operation and effect of proclamation) , 777.110 (Contracts with federal government) , 777.120 (Port’s authority over harbors, wharf lines and navigation) , 777.132 (Authority of ports to distribute water) to 777.165 (Vacancies) , 777.210 (Port may engage in certain port management activities) , 777.220 (Port may collect certain fees from port users) and 777.405 (Deposit and disbursement of moneys) to 777.435 (Levy, assessment and collection of taxes) do not apply to the Port of Portland.

(2) Subject to subsection (1) of this section, the Port of Portland has all powers possessed by ports formed under ORS 285A.666 (Definitions for ORS 285A.666 to 285A.732) to 285A.732 (Short title) , 777.005 (Definitions for ORS 777.005 to 777.725 and 777.915 to 777.953) to 777.725 (Borrowing money to pay bonus) , 777.915 (Definitions for ORS 777.915 to 777.953) to 777.953 (Annexation) and 777.990 (Penalties) .

(3) ORS 777.530 (Special assessments for local improvement) and 777.535 (Installment payment of special assessment) apply to the Port of Portland and the Port of Portland has all powers granted to other ports under ORS 777.530 (Special assessments for local improvement) and 777.535 (Installment payment of special assessment) .

(4) The Port of Portland shall do such things, perform such duties and exercise such powers as it may be authorized or empowered to do, perform or exercise by any Act of the legislature passed for that purpose, though not directly in amendment of this chapter. The powers granted by this chapter are in addition to other powers granted by law to the port.

(5) In addition to such other duties, functions and powers as may be imposed upon the Port of Portland, the port may make recommendations to the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots. [1971 c.728 §116; 1987 c.775 §7; subsection (3) enacted as 1989 c.644 §5]

Source: Section 778.008 — Port of Portland granted powers of ports formed under ORS chapter 777; exceptions; additional powers , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.273 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.273
777.273 Authority of ports to operate pipelines
Status: in_force

(1) A port may own, acquire, construct, operate, improve and maintain pipelines and related facilities for the transportation of products and materials that promote the maritime shipping, aviation and commercial interests of the port.

(2) A port may enter into connection and other agreements with entities owning or operating pipelines and related facilities as may assist the port with regard to its authority described in this section.

(3) A port may acquire by purchase, gift or the exercise of the power of eminent domain rights of way for the placement of pipelines and related facilities.

(4) This section does not grant any additional authority to a port to own, purchase or sell the products and materials carried within the pipelines, but only grants authority over pipelines and related facilities used for transportation purposes.

(5) Except as otherwise specifically authorized by law, this section does not authorize a port to exercise authority over natural gas pipelines and related facilities, the transportation of natural gas or the acquisition of natural gas pipeline rights of way. [1991 c.367 §2]

Source: Section 777.273 — Authority of ports to operate pipelines; exceptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.095 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.095
778.095 Eminent domain power
Status: in_force

The Port of Portland may acquire, by condemnation or otherwise, private property necessary or convenient in carrying out any power granted the port. The right to acquire property by condemnation shall be exercised as provided by ORS chapter 35. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §119]

Source: Section 778.095 — Eminent domain power , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.160 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.160
778.160 Borrowing in anticipation of bond sale
Status: in_force

(1) The Port of Portland shall have the power, at any time and from time to time after the issuance of bonds under ORS 778.145 (Issuance of revenue bonds) to 778.175 (Effect of ORS 778.145 to 778.175) have been authorized, to borrow money for the purposes for which such bonds are to be issued in anticipation of the receipt of the proceeds of the sale of such bonds and within the authorized maximum amount of such bond issue.

(2) Bond anticipation notes shall be issued for all moneys so borrowed under the provisions of this section. Such notes may be issued for a period not exceeding one year and may be renewed from time to time for periods of not exceeding one year, but each such note, including renewals, shall mature and be paid not later than the fifth anniversary of the date the original note was issued. Such notes shall be authorized by ordinance of the board and shall be in such denomination or denominations, shall bear interest at such rate or rates approved by the board, shall be in such form and shall be executed in such manner, all as the board shall prescribe. Such notes may be sold at public or private sale in the manner and at such price or prices as the board shall determine, provided that if such notes be renewal notes, they may be exchanged for notes then outstanding on such terms as the board shall determine. [1971 c.546 §5]

Source: Section 778.160 — Borrowing in anticipation of bond sale; bond anticipation notes; content; sale , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.565 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.565
777.565 Resolution or ordinance authorizing revenue bonds and creating special trust fund
Status: in_force

(1) Revenue bonds issued under ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) (1) shall be authorized by resolution or ordinance of the board. The resolution or ordinance shall provide for the creation of a special trust fund, authorize the appointment of a trustee to administer the fund, and obligate the port to set aside and pay into the special trust fund all, or a portion, of its nontax-derived revenues not otherwise pledged or committed for other purposes for any activity authorized by ORS 777.105 (Bay, river and harbor improvement) to 777.258 (General powers of port in promotion of certain interests) , other than an activity under ORS 777.250 (Port powers with respect to development and use of its lands) (4)(a) or (c). For a facility or facilities designated under ORS 777.250 (Port powers with respect to development and use of its lands) (4)(a) or (c), no revenues other than those derived from the particular facility or facilities to be financed by the sale of the particular issue of revenue bonds then being authorized shall be pledged. The board may, in addition, pledge for the payment of the principal and interest of any issue of such bonds any property of the port not pledged for other purposes. However, with respect to revenue bonds issued to finance a facility or facilities designated under ORS 777.250 (Port powers with respect to development and use of its lands) (4)(a) or (c), the board, in addition, may only pledge or mortgage such facilities including buildings, improvements or properties, and any land acquired in connection with such facilities, for the benefit of the holders of revenue bonds issued therefor. Notice that action upon the bond resolution or ordinance will be taken at the designated meeting of the board shall be given for a period of not less than two consecutive weeks, prior to the meeting, by publication once each week in a newspaper of general circulation, published within the port or, if there be no such newspaper, in a newspaper of general circulation, published within the county.

(2) A special trust fund created by a resolution or ordinance adopted under subsection (1) of this section shall be used solely for payment of principal and interest due upon the revenue bonds issued and sold pursuant to ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) (1), and to the payment of the costs and expenses enumerated in ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) .

(3) The resolution or ordinance may provide that if the money in the special trust fund is insufficient to pay the revenue bonds the bonds shall be payable out of any part or all of other nontax-derived revenues of the port. However, for a facility or facilities designated under ORS 777.250 (Port powers with respect to development and use of its lands) (4)(a) or (c), no revenues other than those derived from the particular facility or facilities to be financed by the sale of the particular issue of revenue bonds then being authorized shall be pledged. When all bonds issued and sold pursuant to ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) (1) and expenses thereof have been paid so that no charge remains upon the special fund, the board may, by resolution or ordinance, transfer any balance remaining in the fund to its general fund, discharge the trustee and dissolve the special fund. The trustee authorized to administer the fund may, subject to approval of the board, invest and reinvest moneys in the special fund in securities in which the State of Oregon may by law invest.

(4) ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) to 777.590 (Authority to issue and sell revenue bonds) and the provisions of the resolution or ordinance authorizing a revenue bond issue constitute a contract with the holders of the bonds, and shall be enforceable by any owner or holder of the bonds. [1955 c.423 §3; 1959 c.337 §2; 1965 c.223 §3; 1967 c.621 §1; 1971 c.728 §87; 1979 c.407 §2; 1997 c.171 §23; 2007 c.783 §226]

Source: Section 777.565 — Resolution or ordinance authorizing revenue bonds and creating special trust fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.220 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.220
777.220 Port may collect certain fees from port users
Status: in_force

A port may collect from vessels using any port facility, wharfage, dockage and drydockage; and collect from owners or consignees of goods passing over the docks and warehouses, wharfage and storage charges for goods so handled. [1971 c.728 §24 (enacted in lieu of 777.130)]

Source: Section 777.220 — Port may collect certain fees from port users , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.170 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.170
778.170 Bonds as obligations of political subdivision
Status: in_force

Revenue bonds including refunding revenue bonds issued under ORS 778.145 (Issuance of revenue bonds) to 778.175 (Effect of ORS 778.145 to 778.175) shall be considered to be bonds or obligations of a political subdivision of the State of Oregon for the purposes of all laws of the state. [1971 c.546 §7]

Source: Section 778.170 — Bonds as obligations of political subdivision , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.271 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.271
777.271 Authority of rural ports to operate telecommunications facilities
Status: in_force

(1) A rural port may construct, purchase, acquire, develop, finance, lease, license, handle, provide, add to, contract for, interconnect, alter, improve, repair, operate and maintain any telecommunications facilities within or without the port’s limits for the port’s own use.

(2) This section does not authorize a rural port to provide telecommunications services to end users.

(3) A rural port may not exercise powers of eminent domain to acquire telecommunications infrastructure or facilities or contractual rights to telecommunications infrastructure or facilities held by any other person or entity.

(4) As used in this section, “rural port” means a port that has a population of less than 750,000 within its territorial boundaries. [2015 c.164 §2]

Source: Section 777.271 — Authority of rural ports to operate telecommunications facilities; exceptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.610 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.610
783.610 Offenses relating to buoys and beacons
Status: in_force

No person shall moor any vessel of any kind or any name, or any boat, skiff, barge, scow, raft, or part of a raft, to any buoy or beacon placed in the navigable waters of this state, or in any bay, river or arm of the sea bordering upon this state, by the authority of the United States Coast Guard or shall in any manner hang on with any vessel, boat, barge, scow, raft, or part of a raft, to any such buoy or beacon, or shall willfully remove, damage or destroy any such buoy or beacon, or shall cut down, remove, damage or destroy any beacon or beacons erected on land in this state by authority of the United States Coast Guard. [Amended by 1965 c.539 §5; 2011 c.597 §303]

Source: Section 783.610 — Offenses relating to buoys and beacons , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.990 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.990
778.990 Penalties
Status: in_force

Any person who violates an ordinance adopted by the board of the Port of Portland under ORS 778.085 (Control over port waters and wharf lines) or 778.260 (Ordinances for regulating use of port properties) commits a Class A misdemeanor. [1971 c.728 §136; 2011 c.597 §302]

Source: Section 778.990 — Penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.015 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.015
776.015 Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Board” means the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots.

(2) “Licensee” means an individual licensed under ORS 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) .

(3) “Organization of pilots” means any legal entity or association to which licensees belong as members, or with which licensees are associated, that is formed for cooperative performance of functions including, but not limited to, the dispatching of licensees and trainees, collection of pilotage fees, ownership and operation of pilot boats, distribution of earnings of licensees and trainees, and education and training so as to facilitate the rendition of pilotage services by individual licensees and trainees.

(4) “Pilotage,” “piloting” or “to pilot” means the actions of a licensee or trainee in assisting the master of a vessel under ORS 776.405 (License required) while the vessel is on, approaching or departing a pilotage ground, and the associated communication with the vessel.

(5) “Trainee” means a person the board has licensed under ORS 776.300 (Trainee license) and who has met the requirements of ORS 776.540 (Security required of licensees and trainees) . [1957 c.448 §1; 1981 c.88 §2; 1983 c.330 §1; 1993 c.741 §110; 1993 c.796 §1; 2001 c.403 §1]

Source: Section 776.015 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.480 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.480
777.480 Construction of ORS 777.455 to 777.505
Status: in_force

The authority contained in ORS 777.455 (Authority to issue refunding bonds for specified purposes) to 777.505 (Delivery of bonds to purchaser) is supplemental and in addition to all other powers granted to port districts to issue bonds. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §83]

Source: Section 777.480 — Construction of ORS 777.455 to 777.505 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.795 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.795
777.795 Right to inspect records of export trading corporation
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the written records of an export trading corporation shall be public records available for inspection under ORS 192.311 (Definitions for ORS 192.311 to 192.478) to 192.478 (Exemption for Judicial Department) .

(2) In addition to the exemptions set forth in ORS 192.338 (Exempt and nonexempt public record to be separated) , 192.345 (Public records conditionally exempt from disclosure) and 192.355 (Public records exempt from disclosure) , the following public records of an export trading corporation are exempt from disclosure:

(a) Information consisting of financial, commercial, sales, production, cost or similar business records of a private concern or enterprise which is not otherwise required to be disclosed by state or federal law.

(b) Trade secrets, as defined in ORS 192.345 (Public records conditionally exempt from disclosure) (2). [1983 c.200 §14]

Source: Section 777.795 — Right to inspect records of export trading corporation; certain records exempt from disclosure , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.355 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.355
776.355 License fees
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, each licensee under this chapter shall pay an annual license fee to the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots not to exceed the amount established under ORS 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) . Subject to prior approval of the Oregon Department of Administrative Services, the amount of the fee shall be adjusted by the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots to finance costs as defined by the legislatively approved budget, as it may be modified by the Emergency Board.

(2) The Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots by rule may establish reduced license fees for those individuals who engage in pilotage activities on less than a full-time basis. However, in no event shall the fee be less than $50. [1957 c.448 §22; 1963 c.105 §2; 1973 c.832 §68; 1977 c.40 §2; 1979 c.11 §2; 1981 c.88 §9; 1983 c.313 §4; 1985 c.271 §2; 1989 c.293 §2; 1991 c.466 §1; 1991 c.703 §41; 1993 c.796 §9; 2023 c.602 §31]

Source: Section 776.355 — License fees; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.165 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.165
777.165 Vacancies
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding ORS 198.320 (Filling of vacancies on governing bodies of certain districts) , the Governor may fill vacancies on the board of any port by appointment when the vacancies exist as a result of the failure to nominate and elect board members as provided in ORS 777.080 (Application of special district election laws to ports) , 777.135 (Board of port commissioners) and 777.160 (Representation by subdistricts) . The appointees shall be electors registered in the port. If the port is divided into subdistricts under ORS 777.155 (Division of ports into subdistricts) or 777.326 (Special procedure for annexations increasing by one-half or more the area or assessed value of taxable property within the port) , the appointees shall be electors registered in the subdistrict represented by the vacant position. The terms of the appointees shall be determined by lot at a meeting of the board held within five days after the appointment. However, the term of an appointee shall expire on June 30 next following the succeeding regular district election at which a successor is elected. The terms of the appointees shall be arranged with the terms of the other members so that the terms of not more than three commissioners expire on June 30 next following any regular district election. [Amended by 1969 c.669 §18; 1971 c.728 §39; 1981 c.173 §53; 1983 c.83 §112; 1983 c.350 §322]

Source: Section 777.165 — Vacancies , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.943 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.943
777.943 Issuance of bonds
Status: in_force

Bonds authorized by ORS 777.940 (Power to issue general obligation bonds) shall be issued as prescribed in ORS chapter 287A. [1987 c.565 §13; 1997 c.171 §25; 2007 c.783 §228]

Source: Section 777.943 — Issuance of bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.300 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.300
776.300 Trainee license
Status: in_force

(1) No person shall be licensed as a trainee under this chapter unless the person meets the experience and educational requirements established by the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots by rule including provisions pursuant to a program to carry out ORS 243.305 (Policy of affirmative action and fair and equal employment opportunities and advancement) and 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) (2).

(2) The board shall assign trainees to organizations of pilots licensed under ORS 776.311 (Organizations licensed to train pilots) . Trainees shall be trained to become licensees by one or more organizations of pilots. The board may adopt by rule training requirements. [1981 c.88 §7; 1993 c.796 §7]

Source: Section 776.300 — Trainee license; qualifications; assignment for training; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.284 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.284
777.284 Grant agreement with primary sponsor
Status: in_force

(1) The Director of the Oregon Business Development Department shall enter into, or modify, a grant agreement with the primary sponsor committing the Oregon Business Development Department to request that the State Treasurer issue lottery bonds as provided in ORS 285B.551 (Issuance of additional lottery bonds) (3) and section 6, chapter 942, Oregon Laws 2001, to obtain lottery bond proceeds for deposit in the Channel Deepening Account for payment of the Oregon nonfederal share.

(2) The total amount paid to the primary sponsor pursuant to the grant agreement may not exceed the lesser of the amount of the Oregon nonfederal share or the total amount deposited in the Channel Deepening Account. The grant agreement:

(a) Shall specify a method for determining the total amount of the Oregon nonfederal share; and

(b) May not contain provisions or be construed or enforced in any manner that would cause the grant agreement to constitute a debt or liability of the state that violates section 7, Article XI of the Oregon Constitution. [1997 c.644 §4; 2001 c.942 §10; 2002 s.s.1 c.8 §3; 2003 c.741 §16; 2009 c.830 §146]

Note: See note under 777.277 (Definitions for ORS 777.277 to 777.287) .

Source: Section 777.284 — Grant agreement with primary sponsor; request for issuance of lottery bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.947 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.947
777.947 Limitation on annual issuance and aggregate amount of bonds in absence of elector approval
Status: in_force

(1) The total amount of general obligation bonds issued in any calendar year by the port without the approval of the electors of the port shall not exceed $500,000.

(2) The aggregate outstanding principal amount of general obligation bonds issued by the port without the approval of the electors of the port shall not at any time exceed $1.5 million.

(3) Nothing in this section applies to refunding bonds. [1987 c.565 §15]

Source: Section 777.947 — Limitation on annual issuance and aggregate amount of bonds in absence of elector approval , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.455 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.455
777.455 Authority to issue refunding bonds for specified purposes
Status: in_force

A port may, in accordance with ORS 777.455 (Authority to issue refunding bonds for specified purposes) to 777.505 (Delivery of bonds to purchaser) , issue refunding bonds for the purpose of refunding and retiring all or any part of its outstanding bonds when the holders are willing to surrender such bonds. When judgment is taken against a port based on bonds and interest coupons issued by the port, refunding bonds may be issued to provide funds with which to pay such judgment. Such bonds may be issued, pursuant to an ordinance or resolution adopted by the board, without elector approval. Such bonds may be issued in the full amount of the outstanding bonds and any judgment on bonds and interest coupons less any sinking funds applicable thereto. The full faith and credit of the issuing port shall be pledged to the payment of the principal of and interest on each of such bonds. Debt limitations imposed by law do not apply to refunding bonds. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §77]

Source: Section 777.455 — Authority to issue refunding bonds for specified purposes; amounts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.790 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.790
777.790 Employees of export trading corporation
Status: in_force

(1) An export trading corporation may employ such persons within or outside the boundaries of this state as necessary or convenient to accomplish its purposes. In addition, an export trading corporation may appoint such agents, brokers or representatives, within or outside the boundaries of this state, as necessary or convenient to accomplish its purposes.

(2) The chief executive officer of an export trading corporation may employ, appoint, discipline or remove all employees, agents, brokers and representatives of an export trading corporation, and fix the compensation to be paid to such persons. [1983 c.200 §8]

Source: Section 777.790 — Employees of export trading corporation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.070 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.070
783.070 Persons authorized to appear for boat or vessel
Status: in_force

The master, owner, agent or consignee of the boat or vessel may appear on behalf of the boat or vessel and answer the complaint.

Source: Section 783.070 — Persons authorized to appear for boat or vessel; answer , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.155 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.155
777.155 Division of ports into subdistricts
Status: in_force

Upon a petition of the electors filed with the board within 10 days after the date of a boundary or name change order a board shall subdivide the port. Such a petition shall be signed by electors registered in the district equal in number to at least 25 percent of the electors who voted at the last port election. The board by resolution shall divide the port into five subdistricts approximately equal in population. Not later than the 10th day after the resolution is adopted, the secretary of the board shall file a certified copy of the resolution with the county clerk of each county in which the district is located. [Amended by 1963 c.268 §19; 1967 c.498 §3; 1971 c.727 §186; 1971 c.728 §37; 1983 c.83 §111; 1983 c.350 §320]

Source: Section 777.155 — Division of ports into subdistricts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.770 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.770
777.770 Additional fiscal powers of export trading corporation
Status: in_force

For the purpose of carrying into effect all or any of its powers, an export trading corporation may:

(1) Borrow money, evidence such borrowing with its promissory notes or other obligations of indebtedness, and pledge in whole or in part any of its assets or revenues not subject to prior liens or pledges.

(2) Issue and sell revenue bonds in the manner and upon the terms and conditions authorized by ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) to 777.590 (Authority to issue and sell revenue bonds) .

(3) Purchase, negotiate and sell letters of credit, bills of lading, dock receipts, dock warrants, drafts and other documents of title as defined in ORS 71.2010 (General definitions) (2)(p). [1983 c.200 §11; 2009 c.181 §108]

Source: Section 777.770 — Additional fiscal powers of export trading corporation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.040 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.040
778.040 General obligation bond issues to be approved by electors
Status: in_force

(1) General obligation bonds shall not be issued by the Port of Portland to provide funds for the establishment or operation of surface ship and air lines or for the payment of bonuses to either such line or lines without the approval of the electors of the port expressed at an election called and held within the port at which such question is submitted.

(2) Whenever the port issues general obligation bonds for purposes other than refunding general obligation bonds previously issued and for purposes other than providing funds to meet the obligations of the City of Portland assumed pursuant to ORS 778.020 (Acquisition of City of Portland property by port) in an aggregate amount equal to five percent of the present real market value of all the taxable property within the territorial limits of the port, no additional general obligation bonds shall be issued for purposes other than refunding general obligation bonds theretofore issued without the approval of the electors of the port expressed at an election within the port at which such question is submitted. [Amended by 1971 c.399 §1; 1997 c.461 §2]

Source: Section 778.040 — General obligation bond issues to be approved by electors , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.357 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.357
776.357 Maximum maritime pilot license fee
Status: in_force

(1) The maximum annual license fee for a maritime pilot is $2,500 for the biennium beginning July 1, 2007.

(2) The Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots shall adjust the amount of the maximum annual license fee for a maritime pilot for each subsequent biennium by a proportional amount equal to the percentage change in the 24-month period prior to the beginning of the biennium in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, West Region (All Items), as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the United States Department of Labor. [2007 c.621 §2; 2019 c.57 §34]

Note: 776.357 (Maximum maritime pilot license fee) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 776 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 776.357 — Maximum maritime pilot license fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.465 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.465
777.465 Disposition of refunding bonds
Status: in_force

The refunding bonds may be exchanged par value for par value for the bonds they are issued to refund and may be issued and delivered to a judgment creditor in the amount of the judgment, or the bonds may be advertised for sale and sold for not less than the par value thereof.

Source: Section 777.465 — Disposition of refunding bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.126 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.126
776.126 Inspection of premises, ship or facility
Status: in_force

(1) When conducting an investigation under ORS 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) , 776.375 (Disciplinary proceedings) or 776.405 (License required) , the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots or its authorized representative may enter and investigate a premises, ship or facility.

(2) When conducting an investigation under subsection (1) of this section, the board or its authorized representative may:

(a) Examine the records, documents, books, papers, memoranda or other information kept at the premises, ship or facility.

(b) Examine under oath an officer, agent or employee of the premises, ship or facility.

(3) If the board or its authorized representative is inspecting a premises, ship or facility that is not open to the public, the board or the representative shall present credentials to the owner or occupant of the premises, ship or facility and obtain the consent of the owner or occupant before conducting the inspection. If the owner or occupant denies entry to the premises, ship or facility, the board or the representative must obtain a warrant to conduct the inspection.

(4) The board or its authorized representative may use information obtained during an investigation only to fulfill the board’s duties under ORS 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) , 776.375 (Disciplinary proceedings) or 776.405 (License required) . [2009 c.280 §3]

Source: Section 776.126 — Inspection of premises, ship or facility , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.767 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.767
777.767 Authorized agreements
Status: in_force

(1) An export trading corporation may enter into agreements which provide for the establishment of prices or rates, or which require a party to the agreement to sell, lease or purchase a commodity or service solely to or from the export trading corporation or to the persons designated in the agreement, when such agreements are entered into pursuant to export trade activities specified in a certificate issued to the corporation under 15 U.S.C. 4001 to 4021. This subsection is not intended to confer any immunity from federal antitrust laws beyond the immunity conferred by a certificate issued under 15 U.S.C. 4001 to 4021.

(2) When entering into agreements containing the provisions described in subsection (1) of this section, the export trading corporation shall be deemed to be performing a governmental function essential for the benefit of the people of this state and the development and diversification of the economy of this state.

(3) An export trading corporation and a port may enter into agreements for the port to provide accounting, clerical, technical, sales, promotional and other administrative services. The port shall be reimbursed not less than the actual cost for providing such services. [1983 c.200 §13]

Source: Section 777.767 — Authorized agreements , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.080 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.080
783.080 Judgment by default
Status: in_force

If in any action commenced under ORS 783.030 (Right to proceed against boat or vessel directly) and 783.040 (Complaint) the master, owner, agent or consignee does not appear and answer the complaint, the plaintiff may proceed to take judgment in the same manner and under the same restrictions as in a civil action against a natural person. If an issue of fact is joined, the same proceeding shall be had as in other actions.

Source: Section 783.080 — Judgment by default; proceedings on issue of fact , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.773 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.773
777.773 Status of obligations of export trading corporation
Status: in_force

(1) An obligation of an export trading corporation, whether arising from the sale of revenue bonds or otherwise, shall not in any manner be a general obligation of the port, nor a charge upon any revenues or property of the port.

(2) An export trading corporation shall not acquire stock or other equity interest in any private corporation organized for profit. [1983 c.200 §12]

Source: Section 777.773 — Status of obligations of export trading corporation; prohibited investments , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.410 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.410
777.410 Ports may borrow money and issue bonds
Status: in_force

(1) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) For the purpose of carrying into effect any of the powers granted by ORS 777.105 (Bay, river and harbor improvement) to 777.258 (General powers of port in promotion of certain interests) , a port may, when authorized so to do by the electors, borrow money and sell and dispose of bonds, which shall constitute a general obligation of the port and be secured by the port’s full faith and credit. The bonds shall be secured by the taxing power of the port as provided in ORS 777.430 (Taxing powers of ports) (2). In addition, the port may provide that the bonds shall be payable from and secured by a lien and pledge of all or any part of the revenues derived by the port from the facilities constructed from the proceeds of the bonds. Bonds outstanding at any one time shall never exceed in the aggregate two and one-half percent of the real market value of all taxable property within the port, computed in accordance with ORS 308.207 (Computation of real market value for taxing or bonding limitations) .

(b) A port may provide for the creation of special trust funds and may authorize the appointment of a trustee to administer such funds. A port may obligate itself to set aside and pay into a special trust fund any revenues pledged to the payment of bonds. A port, from available funds, may establish and fund debt service, operation and maintenance reserves.

(c) Proceeds from the sale of bonds may be used by a port to pay the costs incurred in issuing the bonds, to pay the costs of preliminary work incident to issuing and selling the bonds, including but not limited to planning, engineering, inspection, accounting, fiscal, legal, trustee and other similar expenses, to pay interest on the bonds for such time as the port may determine, but not exceeding six months beyond completion of the facilities financed with the bonds, and to establish reserves for debt service on the bonds.

(2) Without elector approval the board may, whenever it determines that an emergency exists, issue bonds, within the limitation provided by subsection (1) of this section, in an aggregate amount not exceeding $100,000 in any period of 12 months. Bonds shall not be issued under this subsection to provide funds for the acquisition of land. Bonds issued under this subsection shall be issued and sold in accordance with subsection (3) of this section but shall mature in such length of time, not exceeding five years, as the board determines.

(3) All bonds issued under this section shall be issued as prescribed in ORS chapter 287A. [Amended by 1957 c.375 §1; 1963 c.9 §37; 1965 c.223 §1; 1971 c.728 §71; 1973 c.127 §3; 1977 c.698 §1; 1981 c.94 §52; 1981 c.289 §1; 1985 c.773 §2; 1991 c.459 §439; 2007 c.783 §223]

Source: Section 777.410 — Ports may borrow money and issue bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.115 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.115
778.115 Improvement contracts with federal government
Status: in_force

The Port of Portland may contract with the United States Government to do all or part of the work of making, maintaining, or both, a depth of water in the rivers, harbors and waterways within its boundaries and between its boundaries and the sea as determined by the federal government. The port may receive therefor compensation as agreed between the federal government and the port. [Amended by 1963 c.145 §3; 1971 c.728 §123]

Source: Section 778.115 — Improvement contracts with federal government , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.105 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.105
778.105 Port required to contract for work and materials
Status: in_force

(1) Except in cases of emergency and except for ordinary current repair work necessary from day to day, all material purchased for and all work done in, on or for any dry dock, dredge, boat, scow or other appliance to be built, owned or operated by the Port of Portland, when the purchase is made or the work is done by construction, alteration or general overhauling, shall be purchased or done by or under contract. Such contracts shall be let to the lowest competent and responsible bidder, after due advertisement for bids, in the manner usual and customary in the letting of contracts by public bidding, and under regulations prescribed by the port.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section or any other provision of law, the port may let a contract for the construction of a dry dock to the lowest competent and responsible bidder who submits a bid to construct the dry dock within the port, if:

(a) The bid of such bidder does not exceed by more than 10 percent the lowest bid for construction of the dry dock elsewhere; and

(b) In the opinion of the board, the public good will in any way be served thereby. [Amended by 1961 c.11 §1; 1971 c.728 §121; 1977 c.361 §1]

Source: Section 778.105 — Port required to contract for work and materials; dry docks; bids , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.570 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.570
783.570 Enforcement officer in Portland and Astoria
Status: in_force

The mayor and common council of the cities of Portland and Astoria, severally shall appoint or designate a person or officer to see that ORS 783.510 (Enticement of seamen to desert or leave ship) to 783.560 (Arrest of officers and seamen for debt prohibited) are not violated and that the provisions thereof are enforced. Such person or officer shall have all the authority and powers of a peace officer, and may make arrests for violation of ORS 783.510 (Enticement of seamen to desert or leave ship) to 783.560 (Arrest of officers and seamen for debt prohibited) . The person or officer shall perform such other duties as to the enforcement of those sections as may be enjoined upon the person or officer by the respective common council and shall receive such compensation for services as the common council may by ordinance provide.

Source: Section 783.570 — Enforcement officer in Portland and Astoria , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 780.050 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 780 / Section 780.050
780.050 Municipality or port may regulate construction of certain structures beyond low-water mark
Status: in_force

The corporate authorities of the town wherein a wharf, dock, pier, moorage or similar structure is proposed to be constructed, or the commission of any port wherein the structure is proposed to be constructed if the proposed location of the structure is not within any town, may regulate the construction of the structure. Upon application of the person entitled to and desiring to construct the wharf, dock, pier, moorage or similar structure, the corporate authorities or port commission, as the case may be, may by ordinance or other like mode prescribe the mode and extent to which the structure may be constructed beyond the line of low-water mark so that the structure shall not be constructed any farther into the stream or other water beyond the low-water line than may be necessary and convenient for the use of the structure and so that it will not unnecessarily interfere with the navigation of the stream or other like water. [Amended by 1963 c.125 §2; 1973 c.328 §3]

Source: Section 780.050 — Municipality or port may regulate construction of certain structures beyond low-water mark , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors780.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.640 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.640
783.640 Reporting of ballast water management
Status: in_force

(1) Owners or operators of vessels regulated under ORS 783.625 (Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640) to 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) must report ballast water management information to the Department of Environmental Quality:

(a) For voyages greater than 24 hours in length, at least 24 hours prior to entering the waters of this state; or

(b) For voyages less than 24 hours in length, prior to departing the port or place of departure.

(2) The department may work with maritime associations and any national ballast information clearinghouse to establish the manner and form of the reporting required under this section.

(3) The department may verify compliance with ORS 783.625 (Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640) to 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) by:

(a) Relying on tests conducted by the United States Coast Guard or on other tests determined to be appropriate by the department.

(b) Boarding and inspecting vessels regulated under ORS 783.625 (Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640) to 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) and collecting samples of ballast water as part of the inspection. [2001 c.722 §4; 2005 c.62 §4; 2009 c.144 §1]

Source: Section 783.640 — Reporting of ballast water management , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.180 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.180
777.180 Powers of ports created by special laws
Status: in_force

All ports created prior to April 17, 1920, under any special law of the Legislative Assembly of this state shall, in addition to the powers they possessed on that date, have all the powers possessed by ports under the general laws of this state, except the power to borrow money and issue bonds under ORS 777.410 (Ports may borrow money and issue bonds) and 777.415 (Resolution and election prerequisite to issuance of bonds) . [Amended by 1971 c.728 §41]

Source: Section 777.180 — Powers of ports created by special laws , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.050 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.050
783.050 Issuance of warrant for seizure of boat or vessel
Status: in_force

Whenever the complaint is filed, the clerk shall issue a warrant thereon, commanding the sheriff to seize the boat or vessel mentioned in the complaint, with the tackle, apparel and furniture of the boat or vessel and retain the same until discharged from such custody by due course of law.

Source: Section 783.050 — Issuance of warrant for seizure of boat or vessel , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.060 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.060
783.060 Procedure after return of warrant
Status: in_force

Upon the return of any warrant issued as prescribed in ORS 783.050 (Issuance of warrant for seizure of boat or vessel) , proceeding shall be had in the circuit court against the boat or vessel seized, in the same manner as if the action had been commenced against the person on whose account the demand accrued.

Source: Section 783.060 — Procedure after return of warrant , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.635 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.635
783.635 Discharge of ballast water prohibited
Status: in_force

(1) Except as authorized by this section, the discharge of ballast water in the waters of this state is prohibited.

(2) An owner or operator of a vessel may discharge ballast water in the waters of this state:

(a) If the owner or operator has conducted a complete open sea or coastal exchange of ballast water prior to entering the waters of this state. The open sea or coastal exchange must be performed using either of the following methods:

(A) Flow-through exchange. A flow-through exchange occurs when an amount of ocean water equal to or exceeding three times the capacity of the vessel’s ballast tank is pumped into an opening in the ballast tank while the existing ballast water is discharged through another opening.

(B) An empty and refill exchange. An empty and refill exchange occurs when a ballast tank is pumped empty to the point that the pump loses suction and then is refilled with ocean water.

(b) Without performing an open sea exchange or a coastal exchange of ballast water if:

(A) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(i) The owner or operator reasonably believes that an exchange would threaten the safety of the vessel; or

(ii) The exchange is not feasible due to vessel design limitations or equipment failure; and

(B) The vessel discharges only the amount of ballast water that is operationally necessary.

(c) If the ballast water is discharged in a manner consistent with standards and procedures adopted by the Environmental Quality Commission under subsection (4) of this section.

(3) An owner or operator who discharges ballast water in the waters of this state under subsection (2)(b) of this section is subject to the reporting requirements under ORS 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) .

(4) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The Environmental Quality Commission may adopt by rule standards and procedures that the commission considers necessary to carry out the provisions of ORS 783.625 (Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640) to 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) . The standards and procedures must minimize the risk of introducing aquatic invasive species into the waters of this state and must be based on the availability of treatment technology. Rules adopted under this subsection include, but are not limited to:

(A) Standards for the discharge of ballast water into the waters of this state and appropriate timelines for the implementation of the standards. In adopting the standards, the commission shall consider the extent to which treatment technology is feasible, practicable and commercially available, or expected to be available, by the proposed implementation timelines.

(B) Emergency response procedures for managing high-risk ballast water. The rules must define high-risk ballast water in light of the source of the water and other applicable factors. The procedures must establish notification and consultation requirements, as well as feasible alternative ballast water management strategies.

(C) Procedures for implementing alternative ballast water management strategies for the exemptions specified in subsection (2)(b) of this section.

(D) Procedures for implementing alternative ballast water management strategies for vessels with empty ballast tanks that enter the waters of this state.

(b) To the extent practicable, the commission shall adopt rules under this subsection consistent with relevant rules adopted by the States of California and Washington. [2001 c.722 §3; 2005 c.62 §3; 2009 c.148 §1; 2015 c.704 §3]

Source: Section 783.635 — Discharge of ballast water prohibited; exemption; rules; aquatic invasive species , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.585 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.585
777.585 Refunding revenue bonds
Status: in_force

(1) A port may, without the necessity of authorization from the electors of the port, issue and sell its refunding revenue bonds for the purpose of redeeming revenue bonds which are outstanding or paying interest due thereon:

(a) At maturity pursuant to redemption provisions in the outstanding revenue bonds; or

(b) At any time before maturity if the holders of the outstanding revenue bonds consent or if the outstanding revenue bonds authorize redemption before maturity.

(2) ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) to 777.590 (Authority to issue and sell revenue bonds) apply to bonds authorized to be issued and sold under this section. [1955 c.423 §7; 1959 c.337 §6; 1965 c.223 §7; 1971 c.728 §90]

Source: Section 777.585 — Refunding revenue bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.447 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.447
777.447 Promissory notes authorized for port development purposes
Status: in_force

In addition to other powers granted a port, a port may, at any time, upon proper resolution adopted by the board, issue promissory notes to assist it in carrying out the powers granted the port under this chapter. The promissory notes shall not exceed a term of 10 years, shall be considered bonds for purposes of ORS chapter 287A and shall be issued as prescribed in ORS chapter 287A. A port may not have more than $10 million in promissory notes outstanding at any one time and may not pledge or use tax-derived revenues to retire the notes. The notes shall be signed by the president and the treasurer of the port and shall state what assets and revenues of the port shall be security for the notes and that the notes do not constitute a full faith and credit pledge of the port. No officer or employee of the port shall hold promissory notes under this section. Expenditure of note proceeds and payment on notes issued under this section shall first be properly budgeted in accordance with the Local Budget Law. [1979 c.119 §2; 1981 c.94 §53; 1993 c.97 §28; 1999 c.177 §1; 2007 c.783 §224; 2019 c.627 §1]

Source: Section 777.447 — Promissory notes authorized for port development purposes; limitations; form; payment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.015 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.015
778.015 Purposes and general powers of port
Status: in_force

The object, purpose and occupation of the Port of Portland shall be to promote the maritime, shipping, aviation, commercial and industrial interests of the port as by law specifically authorized. Subject to ORS 778.016 (Best value standards for Port of Portland contracts and space leases) , the port may acquire, hold, use, dispose of and convey real and personal property, make any and all contracts the making of which is not by this chapter expressly prohibited. It may do any other acts and things which are requisite, necessary or convenient in accomplishing the purpose described or in carrying out the powers granted to it by law. The port may supply surface and air craft with fuel and other supplies at reasonable cost as may be for the best interests of the port. [Amended by 1959 c.362 §1; 1971 c.728 §104; 2013 c.689 §1]

Source: Section 778.015 — Purposes and general powers of port , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.277 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.277
777.277 Definitions for ORS 777.277 to 777.287
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 777.277 (Definitions for ORS 777.277 to 777.287) to 777.287 (Agreements with federal agencies) :

(1) “Channel Deepening Account” means the account in the Marine Navigation Improvement Fund created by ORS 777.282 (Channel Deepening Account) .

(2) “Channel Deepening Debt Service Account” means the account in the Marine Navigation Improvement Fund created by ORS 777.282 (Channel Deepening Account) .

(3) “Channel deepening project” means a project to deepen the deep draft Columbia River navigation channel from an authorized depth of 40 feet.

(4) “Grant agreement” means the grant agreement described in ORS 777.284 (Grant agreement with primary sponsor) .

(5) “Oregon nonfederal share” means that portion of the cost of the channel deepening project that is allocable to the Oregon sponsors and that is not paid by the federal government, the State of Washington or the Washington sponsors.

(6) “Oregon sponsors” means the Port of St. Helens, the Port of Portland or any agency acting on behalf of the government of the State of Oregon as a financial contributor to the channel deepening project.

(7) “Primary sponsor” means the Port of Portland as representative of the Oregon sponsors.

(8) “Project cooperation agreement” means a written agreement between the United States Government and a nonfederal sponsor that requires the United States Government to construct, and the nonfederal sponsor to share in the cost of, a project authorized under the Water Resources Development Act or a similar Act of the United States Congress.

(9) “Washington sponsors” means the Port of Vancouver, the Port of Kalama, the Port of Woodland, the Port of Longview or any agency acting on behalf of the government of the State of Washington as a financial contributor to the channel deepening project. [1997 c.644 §1; 1997 c.612 §16; 2002 s.s.3 c.6 §20; 2003 c.741 §14; 2009 c.830 §144]

Note: 777.277 (Definitions for ORS 777.277 to 777.287) to 777.287 (Agreements with federal agencies) were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 777 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 777.277 — Definitions for ORS 777.277 to 777.287 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.080 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.080
777.080 Application of special district election laws to ports
Status: in_force

(1) ORS chapter 255 governs the following:

(a) The nomination and election of district commissioners.

(b) The conduct of district elections.

(2) The electors of the district may exercise the powers of the initiative and referendum regarding a district measure, in accordance with ORS 255.135 (Prospective petition) to 255.205 (Retention of petition materials) . [1983 c.350 §325]

Source: Section 777.080 — Application of special district election laws to ports , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.520 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.520
777.520 Special tax levy, rate, use of proceeds
Status: in_force

(1) A port may assess, levy and collect each year in addition to other taxes which it is by law authorized to levy, a special tax upon all taxable real and personal property situated within the port.

(2) Such annual levy shall not exceed one-tenth of one percent. The proceeds thereof shall be used only in the purchase on the open market of bonds of the port, at such prices, as the board determines.

(3) All funds collected from such levy shall be placed in a separate fund, designated the bond sinking fund, and shall be used exclusively for the purposes provided by this section as long as the principal of any bond of the port remains outstanding or unpaid. After the principal of all bonds of the port has been paid, the balance remaining in such fund may be transferred to any other fund as the board may direct. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §85]

Source: Section 777.520 — Special tax levy, rate, use of proceeds; bond sinking fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 780.020 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 780 / Section 780.020
780.020 Entry on riparian lands authorized
Status: in_force

All persons, associations and corporations engaging in improvement of the navigation of any river or watercourse, as authorized in ORS 780.010 (Stream improvement authorized) , may enter upon the lands adjacent to any river or watercourse for the purpose of cutting timber, taking rock, gravel, dirt and other materials necessary for the prosecution of the work of such improvement, and pass over adjacent lands with means of transportation proper for conducting the work contemplated by ORS 780.010 (Stream improvement authorized) , doing as little damage as possible, subject only to the payment of such damages as may be assessed according to law.

Source: Section 780.020 — Entry on riparian lands authorized; liability , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors780.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.120 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.120
778.120 Operation of chapter upon rights of other entities within port limits
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter is intended to grant the Port of Portland authority to interfere with or detract from the general rights and powers of a city or a school or road district that is located in whole or in part within the boundaries of the port. However, the port has full power to carry out and fulfill the purpose of its creation, and to exercise its power of assessing, levying and collecting taxes. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §124]

Source: Section 778.120 — Operation of chapter upon rights of other entities within port limits , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.115 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.115
776.115 Powers and duties of board
Status: in_force

The Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots shall:

(1) Fix the manner of calling and fixing the places of meetings and hold at least one meeting each calendar year.

(2) Provide for efficient and competent pilotage service on all pilotage grounds, and regulate and limit the number of licensees and trainees under this chapter, such number of licensees and trainees to be regulated and limited to the number found by the board to be required to render efficient and competent pilotage service. The primary consideration of the board is public safety. If a proposed rule would result in the significant limitation of competition among licensees or pilot organizations that exist in this state on January 1, 1991, the board shall first make a determination that the proposed rule is essential to protect the safety of the public.

(3) Establish and fix the boundaries of pilotage grounds not described in ORS 776.025 (Description of bar and river pilotage grounds) .

(4) In accordance with the applicable provisions of ORS chapter 183, establish by rule a licensing system for persons licensed to pilot, for persons licensed as trainees and for pilot organizations who train persons to pilot, including but not limited to provisions prescribing:

(a) The form and content of and the times and procedures for submitting an application for license issuance and renewal. The pendency of an investigation shall not affect the renewal process.

(b) The term of license of a pilot and the annual license fee, subject to the maximum annual license fee established pursuant to ORS 776.357 (Maximum maritime pilot license fee) .

(c) The requirements for and the manner of testing competency of license applicants.

(d) Those actions or circumstances that constitute failure to achieve or maintain competency or that otherwise constitute a danger to public health and safety and for which the board may refuse to issue or renew a license, may suspend or revoke a license or may reprimand a licensee.

(e) Classes of licenses that specify the size of vessels the licensee is authorized to be trained to pilot or to pilot on those river pilotage grounds for which the trainee or pilot is licensed.

(5) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Fix, at reasonable and just rates, pilotage fees, extra fees for vessels in distress, fees for extraordinary pilotage services, fees for a licensee or trainee being carried to sea unwillingly and reimbursement for the return to station or for the detention of a licensee or trainee, except that pilotage fees shall not be less inbound or outbound on vessels, propelled in whole or in part by their own power, than the following:

(A) Between Astoria and Portland or Vancouver, $2.50 per foot draft and 2 cents per net ton;

(B) Between Astoria or Knappton and the sea, $3 per foot draft and 2 cents per net ton;

(C) Between Yaquina Bay and the sea, $3 per foot draft and 2 cents per ton; and

(D) Between Coos Bay and the sea, $2.50 per foot draft and 2 cents per ton.

(b) In fixing fees pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection, the board shall give due regard to the following factors:

(A) The length and net tonnage of the vessels to be piloted.

(B) The difficulty and inconvenience of the particular service and the skill required to render it.

(C) The supply of and demand for pilotage services.

(D) The public interest in maintaining efficient, economical and reliable pilotage service.

(E) Other factors relevant to the determination of reasonable and just rates.

(6) Conduct or authorize the holding of hearings. In so doing the board or the administrative law judge may issue subpoenas pursuant to ORS 776.123 (Subpoenas) , conduct investigations pursuant to ORS 776.126 (Inspection of premises, ship or facility) , administer oaths, take depositions and fix the fees and mileage of witnesses.

(7) Adopt any rule or make any order, as set forth in ORS chapter 183, for the effective administration and enforcement of this chapter.

(8) Establish rates pursuant to subsection (5) of this section, for a period of not less than two years, that continue in effect until a subsequent hearing process. Rates may include automatic adjustment provisions to reflect changing economic conditions. [1957 c.448 §4; 1981 c.88 §5; 1983 c.313 §5; 1987 c.158 §157; 1987 c.775 §3; 1991 c.234 §8; 1993 c.741 §112; 1993 c.796 §4; 2003 c.75 §110; 2003 c.619 §1; 2007 c.621 §1; 2009 c.280 §4]

Source: Section 776.115 — Powers and duties of board; rules; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.550 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.550
783.550 Unauthorized boarding of nonpassenger vessel
Status: in_force

No person not acting in an official capacity shall board or attempt to board any ship or other vessel on the Willamette or Columbia River, not engaged in the carrying of passengers for hire, without the consent first obtained of the captain, master or other officer in command thereof at the time.

Source: Section 783.550 — Unauthorized boarding of nonpassenger vessel , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.210 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.210
778.210 Qualifications of members
Status: in_force

(1) The board shall be composed of residents of the State of Oregon. The Governor shall make appointments to the board so as to assure that not fewer than two board members are residents of each county constituting the port district.

(2) A person is eligible for appointment as a commissioner of the Port of Portland who at the time of the appointment is a citizen of the United States and of the State of Oregon, and who has for one year immediately preceding appointment resided within the State of Oregon. [Amended by 1961 c.469 §1; 1971 c.403 §17; 1971 c.728 §126; 1973 c.178 §3; 1987 c.179 §1; 1997 c.461 §1]

Source: Section 778.210 — Qualifications of members , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.990 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.990
777.990 Penalties
Status: in_force

(1) Failure by a port treasurer, or county treasurer charged with the duties provided by ORS 777.515 (Payment of warrants) , to comply with the requirements of that section for a period of 10 days is a Class A violation.

(2) Subject to ORS 153.022 (Authority of agency to specify rule violation as particular level of violation) , any person violating a regulation adopted by a port board under ORS 777.120 (Port’s authority over harbors, wharf lines and navigation) or 777.190 (Ordinances for policing or regulating of port property) commits a Class A misdemeanor. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §102; 1999 c.1051 §226; 2011 c.597 §95]

Source: Section 777.990 — Penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.710 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.710
777.710 Payment of bonus explained
Status: in_force

The payment of a bonus authorized by ORS 777.715 (Ports may pay bonuses in aid of water transportation and may charter vessels) and 777.720 (Discretion of board in making payment) includes the payment of sums necessary to make good the guarantee described by ORS 777.705 (Definitions for ORS 777.705 to 777.725) . [Amended by 1971 c.728 §98]

Source: Section 777.710 — Payment of bonus explained , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.282 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.282
777.282 Channel Deepening Account
Status: in_force

(1) The Channel Deepening Account is hereby created in the Marine Navigation Improvement Fund.

(2) Any earnings and interest earned on amounts in the Channel Deepening Account shall be credited to the Channel Deepening Account. The moneys in the Channel Deepening Account are continuously appropriated to the Oregon Business Development Department for the Oregon Infrastructure Finance Authority and shall be transferred by the authority to the primary sponsor pursuant to and upon the terms and conditions set forth in the grant agreement entered into under ORS 777.284 (Grant agreement with primary sponsor) to pay the Oregon nonfederal share.

(3) The Channel Deepening Debt Service Account is hereby created in the Marine Navigation Improvement Fund.

(4) Any earnings and interest earned on amounts in the Channel Deepening Debt Service Account must be credited to the Channel Deepening Debt Service Account. The moneys in the Channel Deepening Debt Service Account are continuously appropriated to the Oregon Business Development Department for the Oregon Infrastructure Finance Authority for payment of bond-related costs for lottery bonds issued under ORS 285B.551 (Issuance of additional lottery bonds) (5) and section 12, chapter 741, Oregon Laws 2003, and for lottery bonds issued for channel deepening under ORS 285B.551 (Issuance of additional lottery bonds) (3) and section 6, chapter 942, Oregon Laws 2001.

(5) The restrictions on the use of moneys in the Marine Navigation Improvement Fund set forth in ORS 777.267 (Marine Navigation Improvement Fund) do not apply to moneys in the Channel Deepening Account or the Channel Deepening Debt Service Account. [1997 c.644 §3; 2001 c.942 §9; 2003 c.741 §15; 2009 c.830 §145]

Note: See note under 777.277 (Definitions for ORS 777.277 to 777.287) .

Source: Section 777.282 — Channel Deepening Account; Channel Deepening Debt Service Account; payments to primary sponsor , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.070 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.070
778.070 Tax levy
Status: in_force

(1) Taxes authorized by ORS 778.065 (Port taxing power) shall be levied in each year and returned to the county officers whose duty it is to extend the tax roll by the time required by law for city taxes to be levied and extended. The county officer whose duty it is to extend the county levy shall extend the levy of the Port of Portland in the same manner city taxes are extended.

(2) All taxes levied by the port are payable at the same time and shall be collected by the same officers as regular county taxes. The county officers collecting the taxes shall pay them to the treasurer of the port as provided by law. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §115]

Source: Section 778.070 — Tax levy , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.205 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.205
778.205 Board of commissioners
Status: in_force

The power and authority given to the Port of Portland is vested in and shall be exercised by a board of nine commissioners. The board may exercise such powers, at regular or special meetings, as is usual and customary with similar bodies. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §125]

Source: Section 778.205 — Board of commissioners; general powers , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.155 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.155
778.155 Form and content of bonds
Status: in_force

The revenue bonds issued and sold under ORS 778.145 (Issuance of revenue bonds) (1):

(1) Shall be deemed to be for all purposes negotiable instruments, subject only to the provisions of the bonds for registration, and need not comply with requirements of the Uniform Commercial Code.

(2) May be issued in one or more series, bear such date or dates, mature at such times and in such amounts, be in such denomination or denominations, be payable at a designated place or places within or without the State of Oregon or at the fiscal agency of the State of Oregon, be equally and ratably secured without priority or be entitled or subject to such priorities on all or any portion of the revenues of the Port of Portland, and, notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, bear such rate or rates of interest either fixed or variable under a formula fixed at the time of issuance, and contain such other terms, conditions and covenants as the board may authorize.

(3) Shall contain a recital that principal of and interest on and premium, if any, on the revenue bonds are payable solely out of revenues and property of the port pledged to the payment thereof by the ordinance of the board authorizing the issue of which the bonds are a part.

(4) May contain covenants of the port to protect and safeguard the security and rights of holders of any such bonds and such other terms and conditions, in conformity with ORS 778.145 (Issuance of revenue bonds) to 778.175 (Effect of ORS 778.145 to 778.175) , which the board in its discretion determines are necessary or desirable to protect the port or increase the marketability of the bonds. ORS 778.145 (Issuance of revenue bonds) to 778.175 (Effect of ORS 778.145 to 778.175) and any such ordinance which constitutes a contract with the holders of the bonds, and the provisions thereof shall be enforceable by any holder or any number of holders of the bonds, as the board may determine.

(5) Shall be issued under ORS chapter 287A. However, the requirements of ORS 287A.150 (Authority of public body to issue revenue bonds) do not apply to revenue bonds issued under this section. [1971 c.546 §4; 1981 c.879 §5; 1997 c.171 §27; 2007 c.783 §231]

Source: Section 778.155 — Form and content of bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.030 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.030
783.030 Right to proceed against boat or vessel directly
Status: in_force

Any person having a demand as mentioned in ORS 783.010 (Claims for which liens accorded) , instead of proceeding for recovery thereof against the master, owner, agent or consignee of the boat or vessel, may at the person’s option commence an action against such boat or vessel by name.

Source: Section 783.030 — Right to proceed against boat or vessel directly , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.160 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.160
777.160 Representation by subdistricts
Status: in_force

(1) At the first regular district election after the effective date of the division of a port into subdistricts under ORS 777.155 (Division of ports into subdistricts) or 777.326 (Special procedure for annexations increasing by one-half or more the area or assessed value of taxable property within the port) , one commissioner shall be elected from each subdistrict. Thereafter election of commissioners shall be by subdistrict and by the electors in each such subdistrict.

(2) The terms of office of the incumbent commissioners of a port that is subdivided as provided by ORS 777.155 (Division of ports into subdistricts) or 777.326 (Special procedure for annexations increasing by one-half or more the area or assessed value of taxable property within the port) terminate on June 30 following the first regular district election after the effective date of the division of the port into subdistricts.

(3) The two commissioners who receive the greatest number of votes cast at the election under subsection (1) of this section shall hold office for the term of four years beginning July 1 following the election. The three commissioners who receive the lesser number of votes cast at the election shall hold office for the term of two years beginning July 1 following the election. [Amended by 1963 c.268 §20; 1967 c.498 §4; 1971 c.727 §187; 1971 c.728 §38; 1973 c.796 §75; 1983 c.350 §321]

Source: Section 777.160 — Representation by subdistricts; terms of commissioners after subdistricting , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.940 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.940
777.940 Power to issue general obligation bonds
Status: in_force

(1) For the purpose of carrying into effect any of the powers granted to the port, the port has the power to borrow money and to sell and dispose of bonds which shall constitute a general obligation of the port and be secured by the port’s full faith and credit. Such bonds outstanding at one time shall never exceed in the aggregate one and three-fourths percent of the real market value of all taxable property within the limits of the port, computed in accordance with ORS 308.207 (Computation of real market value for taxing or bonding limitations) . The bonds shall be secured by the taxing power of the port as provided in ORS 777.430 (Taxing powers of ports) (2). In addition, the port may provide that the bonds shall be payable from and secured by a lien and pledge of all or any part of the revenues derived by the port from the facilities constructed from the proceeds of the bonds.

(2) The port may provide for the creation of special trust funds and may authorize the appointment of a trustee to administer the same and may obligate itself to set aside and pay into a special trust fund any revenues pledged to the payment of the bonds. The port may establish and provide from available funds for the funding of debt service, operation and maintenance reserves.

(3) Proceeds from the sale of the bonds may also be used to pay the costs incurred in issuing the bonds, preliminary work incident to carrying out such powers, including but not limited to planning, engineering, inspection, accounting, fiscal, legal and trustee expenses and other similar expenses, and to pay interest on the bonds for such period as the port may determine, but not to exceed six months beyond completion of the facilities financed with the bonds, and to establish reserves for debt service on the bonds. [1987 c.565 §12; 1991 c.459 §442]

Source: Section 777.940 — Power to issue general obligation bonds; limitation; dedication of revenues; use of proceeds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.920 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.920
777.920 Board of port commissioners
Status: in_force

(1) The power and authority given to the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay is vested in and shall be exercised by a board of five commissioners. The board may exercise such powers, at regular or special meetings, as is usual and customary with similar bodies.

(2) The port may own, operate, repair and maintain the Coos Bay rail link. [1987 c.565 §4; 2011 c.437 §2]

Source: Section 777.920 — Board of port commissioners; powers , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.240 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.240
777.240 Port may advertise and promote facilities, commerce and activities
Status: in_force

A port may advertise and promote facilities and commerce of the port, activities of the port and activities of others using port facilities, through public and trade media, exhibits, fairs, trade fairs and trade tours, either alone or in cooperation with others or through associations or organizations having similar interests. [1971 c.728 §26 (enacted in lieu of 777.130); 2017 c.85 §1]

Source: Section 777.240 — Port may advertise and promote facilities, commerce and activities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.500 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.500
777.500 Advertisement of bonds
Status: in_force

(1) Refunding bonds shall be advertised for sale at least once each week for not less than two successive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation published within the port or, if there is no such newspaper, then in a newspaper published in the county in which the port is located.

(2) All bids for such bonds shall be in writing and be sealed and, unless the sale is made to the sinking fund of the particular port or to the State of Oregon, shall be accompanied by a certified check or a cashier’s check upon a bank doing business in this state for an amount of not less than two percent of the par value of the bonds for which the bid is submitted. Bids shall be opened publicly at the time and place specified in the advertisement. The bonds shall be sold for cash.

(3) If the bids for the purchase of the bonds are not satisfactory, the board may reject any and all of the bids and may readvertise for bids in the manner provided by this section.

(4) The date of sale shall not precede by more than four months the first succeeding date upon which the bonds to be refunded thereby will mature or may be called, redeemed or otherwise retired. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §79; 1981 c.94 §55]

Source: Section 777.500 — Advertisement of bonds; bids; rejection of bids; readvertisement; time of sale limited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.636 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.636
783.636 Fees
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of Environmental Quality shall collect a fee of $88 for each trip by vessels regulated under ORS 783.625 (Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640) to 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) .

(2) All fees collected by the department under this section shall be paid into the Ballast Water Fund established under ORS 783.638 (Ballast Water Fund) .

(3) The Environmental Quality Commission may adopt by rule procedures for the payment of the fees specified in this section. [2011 c.321 §2; 2015 c.288 §1]

Source: Section 783.636 — Fees; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 780.010 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 780 / Section 780.010
780.010 Stream improvement authorized
Status: in_force

Any person, association, or corporation may enter upon the channel or bed of any and all rivers and watercourses, navigable or susceptible of being made navigable, and perform work and labor thereon, and make such improvement of the same by clearing out or deepening the channel, constructing wing dams, blasting and removing rocks or ledges, removing sand bars, gravel bars, snags and all other obstructions to navigation, so as to render the rivers or any of them navigable at all seasons of the year or to improve the navigation. No work authorized by ORS 780.010 (Stream improvement authorized) and 780.020 (Entry on riparian lands authorized) to be done shall be so done or conducted as to obstruct in any manner, either temporarily or otherwise, any channel or river now navigable, but the closing of one or more channels in any river in order to deepen or cause more water to flow in the main channel shall not be construed as constituting an obstruction to the navigation of any river or watercourse.

Source: Section 780.010 — Stream improvement authorized; channel obstruction prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors780.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.785 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.785
777.785 Meetings of board to be open to public
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, all meetings of the board shall be open to the public and all persons shall be permitted to attend any meeting.

(2) In addition to matters which may be considered in executive session under ORS 192.660 (Executive sessions permitted on certain matters) , the board may also meet in executive session to:

(a) Consider preliminary negotiations for an export trading project involving financial or commercial information which the board in good faith determines should be kept confidential.

(b) Review the operation, modification, enlargement or abandonment of an export trading project involving financial or commercial information which the board in good faith determines should be kept confidential.

(3) In its discretion the board may allow representatives of the news media to attend executive sessions held under subsection (2)(a) and (b) of this section on such terms and conditions as the board may prescribe. [1983 c.200 §6]

Source: Section 777.785 — Meetings of board to be open to public; executive sessions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.165 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.165
778.165 Sale of revenue bonds
Status: in_force

The board may from time to time sell revenue bonds authorized to be issued and sold pursuant to ORS 778.145 (Issuance of revenue bonds) to 778.175 (Effect of ORS 778.145 to 778.175) , at public or private sale, in the manner and at such price or prices as it shall determine. [1971 c.546 §6]

Source: Section 778.165 — Sale of revenue bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.400 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.400
783.400 Shipbreaking
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section:

(a) “Dry dock” means a graving dock or a floating dry dock.

(b) “Floating dry dock” means a vessel or structure that can be flooded to allow a ship to be floated in and drained to allow the ship to come to rest on a dry platform.

(c) “Fouling communities” means the matrix consisting of:

(A) Native or nonnative species attached to the hull of a ship including, but not limited to, barnacles, bivalves, bryozoans, tunicates and seaweeds; and

(B) Native or nonnative mobile species such as crustaceans, sea stars and worms that may be unattached to the hull, but that inhabit a fouling community or inhabit protected recesses and crevices in the hull, such as sea chests.

(d) “Fouling organisms” means native or nonnative species that attach to the hull of a ship including, but not limited to, sessile bottom-dwelling invertebrates, algae and microorganisms such as bacteria and diatoms.

(e) “Graving dock” means a paved excavation in the ground that can be flooded to allow a ship to be floated in and drained to allow that ship to come to rest on a dry platform.

(f) “Hazardous materials” includes, but is not limited to, asbestos, polychlorinated biphenyls, oil, fuel, bilge and ballast water, paint and lead.

(g) “Ocean shore” has the meaning given that term in ORS 390.605 (Definitions) .

(h) “Ship” means a vessel that weighs in excess of 200 gross tons and operates upon navigable waterways.

(i) “Shipbreaking” means the process of dismantling a ship for scrap or disposal.

(j) “Shipwreck” means a ship that has been stranded or destroyed by being driven ashore or onto the rocks or the shoal.

(k) “Waters of this state” has the meaning given that term in ORS 196.800 (Definitions for ORS 196.600 to 196.921) .

(2) In the State of Oregon, a person:

(a) May perform shipbreaking activities only in a dry dock.

(b) May not perform shipbreaking activities in a manner that allows hazardous materials, fouling communities or fouling organisms that are in or on the ship to enter the waters of this state or the ocean shore.

(3) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, a person may in the waters of this state:

(a) Dismantle for removal a ship that has been shipwrecked if the Department of State Lands determines, in consultation with others as the department finds appropriate including, but not limited to, other state agencies, the United States Coast Guard and the shipowner, that it is physically impracticable to move the shipwreck to a dry dock.

(b) Partially dismantle a ship as may be required in the process of ship repair.

(4) Subsection (2) of this section does not apply to the shipbreaking of a flat-bottomed barge that is not self-propelled and that operates in the waters of this state.

(5) This section does not relieve a person from compliance with other state or local laws that apply to shipbreaking, shipwrecks or ship repair including, but not limited to, laws relating to hazardous materials, fouling communities or fouling organisms. [2007 c.150 §1; 2007 c.816 §3]

Source: Section 783.400 — Shipbreaking; shipwrecks; ship repair; definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.100 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.100
783.100 Return of deposit
Status: in_force

If judgment is for the defendant, any deposit in lieu of an undertaking shall be returned to the person making the same; or if a balance remains after satisfying any judgment in favor of the plaintiff and costs of suit, the balance shall be so returned.

Source: Section 783.100 — Return of deposit; disposition of balance , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.195 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.195
777.195 Port may engage in certain water commerce-related activities
Status: in_force

A port may, for hire:

(1) Acquire, charter, own, lease, rent, dispose of, maintain and operate towboats, barges and other watercraft for the transportation of all kinds of merchandise, freight and commercial or recreational passengers, and engage generally in maritime trade and commerce, within or without the boundaries of this state.

(2) Own, acquire, construct, operate and maintain railroad terminal grounds and yards; and construct, operate and maintain such line or lines of railroad, with necessary sidetrack, turnouts, switches and connection and arrangements with other common carriers, as may facilitate water commerce between common carriers and points within the port; and carry and transport freight and passengers and move passenger trains over the lines.

(3) Acquire, own, lease, rent, operate, maintain and dispose of unit trains and related facilities for the transportation of bulk commodities to facilities within the port from locations within or without the port. [1971 c.728 §22 (enacted in lieu of 777.130); 1979 c.109 §1; 1981 c.879 §2; 2001 c.883 §39f]

Source: Section 777.195 — Port may engage in certain water commerce-related activities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.560 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.560
783.560 Arrest of officers and seamen for debt prohibited
Status: in_force

No officer or seaman of a seagoing vessel or ship shall be arrested or imprisoned for debt. No officer shall execute a process of arrest for debt upon such officer or seaman.

Source: Section 783.560 — Arrest of officers and seamen for debt prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.445 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.445
777.445 Procedure subsequent to levy under ORS 777.440
Status: in_force

(1) Taxes levied under ORS 777.440 (Levy of special tax by county court upon default of port officers) by the county board shall be assessed and collected as if the levy had been made by the port itself.

(2) However, taxes thus levied by the county board shall not be paid to the treasurer of the port by the county officers collecting the tax, but shall be paid to the county treasurer to the credit of the port issuing the bonds to be used for the purpose provided by subsection (3) of this section.

(3) The county treasurer shall pay from the fund the interest on or maturing principal of any bond described by ORS 777.440 (Levy of special tax by county court upon default of port officers) as it becomes due, and at such places as are designated in the bonds or interest coupons thereof, or upon the presentation at the county treasurer’s office of the bonds or coupons, which must show the amount due and the number and series of the bond.

(4) All bonds or coupons thereof thus paid shall be immediately reported by the county treasurer to the port board.

(5) On October 1 of the next calendar year following the year of the levy by the county board, the county treasurer shall ascertain the exact amount of interest and principal payable and still remaining unpaid. The county treasurer shall retain from the fund an amount sufficient to pay such principal and interest and pay to the treasurer of the port any balance of the fund remaining after making such deduction. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §76]

Source: Section 777.445 — Procedure subsequent to levy under ORS 777.440 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.365 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.365
777.365 Name change of port
Status: in_force

A board may, within 60 days following an order of annexation, change the name of the port by order made at any regular meeting. Notice of the proposed change, including the new name, shall be given by publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the port once a week for three successive weeks prior to the meeting. [1963 c.268 §16; 1971 c.727 §190; 1971 c.728 §54]

Source: Section 777.365 — Name change of port; notice , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.780 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.780
777.780 Board of directors
Status: in_force

(1) The board of directors of the export trading corporation shall consist of three members. Only commissioners of the port shall be eligible to serve as members of the board of directors. The board of directors shall be elected by majority vote of the commissioners of the port.

(2) The initial board of directors shall consist of one director elected for a one-year term, one director elected for a two-year term and one director elected for a three-year term. Following election of the initial board, the term of office of a director is three years. A director shall serve until a successor is elected and qualified.

(3) Before the expiration of the term of a director, the commissioners of the port shall elect a successor. A director is eligible for reelection. In case of a vacancy for any cause, the commissioners of the port shall elect a person to serve for the unexpired term.

(4) The board shall choose from among its members by majority vote a president, vice president and secretary-treasurer to serve for such terms as the board may determine.

(5) Directors shall not be entitled to compensation for their services but shall be entitled to reimbursements for actual and necessary expenses incurred or paid in the performance of their duties as members of the board. [1983 c.200 §4]

Source: Section 777.780 — Board of directors; election; term; compensation; board officers , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.125 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.125
777.125 Ports may maintain tug and pilotage service
Status: in_force

(1) A port may establish, maintain and operate a tugboat and pilotage service in the port and between the port and the sea. To provide such service, it may purchase, lease, control and operate tugboats and pilot boats and collect charges from vessels employing such tugs for towage or pilotage services.

(2) The charges for towage and pilotage shall be fixed by the board and filed in the records of the port. A port is entitled to a lien upon a vessel for any sums due the port for piloting or towing such vessel. The master and owner of such vessel shall, in addition, be jointly and severally liable to the port for the sums due.

(3) If a vessel or cargo, while being towed by a vessel owned or operated by a port or while under the charge of a pilot employee thereof, suffers injury or loss by reason of the fault of the tug, or the negligence or incompetency of the pilot, the port shall not be liable for any loss or injury thereof in excess of $5,000.

(4) A port may claim and collect salvage for services rendered to vessels in distress in the same manner as a natural person. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §20]

Source: Section 777.125 — Ports may maintain tug and pilotage service; charges; port’s liability limited; salvage claims , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.510 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.510
776.510 Declaration of legislative intent relating to liability of licensees, trainees and organizations
Status: in_force

(1) The stimulation and preservation of maritime commerce on the bar and river pilotage grounds of this state are declared to be affected with the public interest and the limitation and regulation of liability of licensees, trainees and organizations of pilots are necessary to such stimulation and preservation of maritime commerce and are deemed to be in the public interest.

(2) To accomplish the stimulation and preservation of maritime commerce it is necessary to establish an optional rate system whereby vessels and persons engaging the services of a licensee have the option of:

(a) Agreeing not to assert any personal liability against any licensee, trainee and organization of pilots to which the licensee or trainee belongs, and to defend, indemnify and save harmless the licensee, trainee and organization of pilots against all claims and demands arising from acts or omissions of the licensee, trainee or organization of pilots which relate, directly or indirectly, to pilotage of the vessel; or

(b) Directing licensees in writing and in sufficient time for insurance to be procured by them, on a “trip” basis, insuring such licensees, trainees and organizations of pilots to which they belong against all claims or demands arising from or relating to, directly or indirectly, pilotage of the vessel, the premium or cost of such insurance to be included in the charges for pilotage services and paid on demand by the vessel.

(3) The Legislative Assembly hereby declares that to effect the ends and purposes listed in this section, and to maintain pilotage fees at reasonable levels on the bar and river pilotage grounds of this state, ORS 776.520 (Tariffs limiting liability of licensees, trainees or organizations) , 776.530 (Licensees, trainees and organizations not liable for certain acts or omissions) and 776.540 (Security required of licensees and trainees) are adopted. [1959 c.404 §2; 1983 c.330 §4; 1993 c.796 §17]

Source: Section 776.510 — Declaration of legislative intent relating to liability of licensees, trainees and organizations , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.123 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.123
776.123 Subpoenas
Status: in_force

(1) The Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots may issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of records, documents, books, papers, memoranda or other information necessary to conduct an investigation under ORS 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) , 776.375 (Disciplinary proceedings) or 776.405 (License required) .

(2) If a person fails to comply with a subpoena issued under this section, a judge of the circuit court, on the application of the board, shall compel obedience by instituting proceedings for contempt in the same manner that the court would institute proceedings for contempt when a person fails to comply with a subpoena in a civil action. [2009 c.280 §2]

Source: Section 776.123 — Subpoenas , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.135 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.135
777.135 Board of port commissioners
Status: in_force

(1) The power and authority given a port is vested in and shall be exercised by a board of five commissioners, each of whom shall be an elector registered in the port.

(2) Within 10 days after the formation of the port, the Governor shall appoint the first board of five commissioners, each of whom shall be an elector registered in the port.

(3) The commissioners shall meet at a place within the port, designated by the Governor, on the fifth day after their appointment and shall organize as a board, first making and subscribing to an oath of office. The term of office of each commissioner shall be determined by lot at the first meeting of the board. The terms of two of the commissioners expire June 30 next following the first regular district election, and the terms of the remaining three commissioners expire June 30 next following the second next regular district election.

(4) At the first regular district election following the appointment of the first board, two commissioners shall be elected. At the second regular district election following the appointment of the first board, three commissioners shall be elected.

(5) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, the term of commissioner is four years.

(6) The term of a commissioner shall expire when the commissioner is absent from four or more consecutive regular meetings of the board of port commissioners and the board declares the position vacant. The vacancy shall be filled as provided by ORS 198.320 (Filling of vacancies on governing bodies of certain districts) . [Amended by 1967 c.185 §1; 1971 c.647 §136; 1971 c.727 §§185,200; 1971 c.728 §30; 1973 c.796 §74; 1983 c.83 §110; 1983 c.350 §318; 1995 c.705 §1]

Source: Section 777.135 — Board of port commissioners; qualifications; appointment; term; first meeting; election; vacancies , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.137 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.137
777.137 Designation of position numbers for commissioners
Status: in_force

(1) Each office of commissioner of the board of a port shall be designated by number as Position No. 1, Position No. 2, and so forth.

(2) The secretary of a port shall assign a position number to each office on the board. The number so assigned shall be certified by the secretary to the commissioner in office holding that position. The secretary shall file a copy of the certification with the elections officer for the district. [1969 c.297 §2; 1971 c.728 §31; 1983 c.350 §319]

Source: Section 777.137 — Designation of position numbers for commissioners , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.100 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.100
778.100 Reclamation of lands within port limits
Status: in_force

(1) When the Port of Portland contemplates the filling or reclamation of any low, swamp or submersible land within its territory held in private ownership, it may provide by ordinance for assessment by the board of the damages and benefits to be sustained by and to accrue to the land by reason of the filling or reclamation. In making the assessment the question of channel frontage as well as filling shall be considered in assessing benefits. The ordinance may provide for payment of damages to the owner of the land and may provide for creation of a lien upon the land in favor of the port for the amount of benefits and for payment of the amount of the lien, either in cash or in installments, with interest thereon over a term of years.

(2) The ordinance shall provide for a hearing before the board to be held, upon due notice to all owners of and persons interested in the lands to be affected by the assessment, before the assessment is made.

(3) Any owner or person interested in any land affected, who is aggrieved by an assessment made under this section may appeal to the Circuit Court of Multnomah County for judicial review of the assessment. [Amended by 1969 c.594 §62; 1971 c.728 §120]

Source: Section 778.100 — Reclamation of lands within port limits; assessments; lien; hearing; appeal , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.005 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.005
778.005 Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Board” means the board of commissioners of the Port of Portland.

(2) “Port” means The Port of Portland.

(3) “Elector” means an elector residing in the port.

(4) “Portland metropolitan area” means the Oregon portion of a metropolitan statistical area as designated by the United States Office of Management and Budget with an Oregon population of more than 750,000. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §103; 1973 c.178 §1; 2009 c.11 §98]

Source: Section 778.005 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.133 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.133
777.133 Coordination with other ports
Status: in_force

(1) The Legislative Assembly finds and declares that:

(a) Oregon public ports were created to preserve public ownership of public resources, giving local governments the ability and statutory authority to support economic development for the benefit of the public;

(b) Oregon public ports are vital links in the transportation and economic infrastructure of this state and perform critical services that support and facilitate movement of cargo and passengers within this state and in commerce worldwide;

(c) Oregon public ports that carry out or seek to carry out operations that involve moving cargo or passengers are a vital part of the economy and trade infrastructure of this state; and

(d) Enabling Oregon public ports to coordinate, reach agreements on and implement actions with members of the Northwest Marine Terminal Association and other public ports within and outside this state with respect to matters within each public port’s authority is an important public purpose.

(2) The Legislative Assembly declares that the policy of this state and the intent of this section is, notwithstanding the applicability of the antitrust laws of this state or the United States, to displace competition under the state action doctrine to the extent specified in subsection (3) of this section.

(3) A public cargo or passenger port located in this state and any other public port, including a member of the Northwest Marine Terminal Association, may coordinate, reach agreements on and implement any action that is within the public port’s authority, including actions to specify:

(a) Rates and charges that each public port will assess;

(b) Rules, practices and procedures that each public port will implement with respect to cargo and passenger service operations;

(c) Planning, development, management, marketing, operations and uses of public port facilities; and

(d) Other matters that relate to cargo and passenger service operations at public ports. [2023 c.164 §2]

Note: 777.133 (Coordination with other ports) was added to and made a part of ORS chapter 777 by legislative action but was not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 777.133 — Coordination with other ports , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.530 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.530
776.530 Licensees, trainees and organizations not liable for certain acts or omissions
Status: in_force

An organization of pilots shall not be liable for any claims arising from acts or omissions of a licensee, trainee or organization of pilots which relate, directly or indirectly, to pilotage of a vessel. A licensee or trainee shall not be liable either directly or as a member or associate of an organization of pilots for any claims arising from acts or omissions of any other licensee, trainee or any organization of pilots which relate, directly or indirectly, to pilotage of a vessel. This section does not apply to acts or omissions relating to the ownership and operation of pilot boats or the transportation of licensees and trainees to and from the vessel being piloted. [1983 c.330 §8; 1993 c.796 §19]

Source: Section 776.530 — Licensees, trainees and organizations not liable for certain acts or omissions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.510 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.510
777.510 Port warrants
Status: in_force

A port board may issue warrants drawn upon any officer designated the custodian of money belonging to or credited to the port. Warrants shall be signed by the treasurer and countersigned by the president of the port or in the absence or inability of the president to act, by the vice president. Warrants shall show upon their face the nature and extent of the obligation satisfied. They may be used in payment of any obligation of the port, including expenses of operation, payment of the principal amount of port bonds at their maturity and in payment of interest or interest coupons of the bonds at the time the interest becomes due and payable. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §34]

Source: Section 777.510 — Port warrants; execution; contents , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.917 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.917
777.917 Oregon International Port of Coos Bay
Status: in_force

(1) The Port of Coos Bay is hereby renamed the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay.

(2) Notwithstanding ORS 777.135 (Board of port commissioners) to 777.165 (Vacancies) , 777.410 (Ports may borrow money and issue bonds) and 777.415 (Resolution and election prerequisite to issuance of bonds) , ORS 777.915 (Definitions for ORS 777.915 to 777.953) to 777.953 (Annexation) apply to the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay. [1987 c.565 §§2a,3]

Source: Section 777.917 — Oregon International Port of Coos Bay; applicability of statutes , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.445 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.445
776.445 Liability of certain persons for licensee’s compensation
Status: in_force

In addition to the lien of the licensee upon the vessel for any sum due for piloting, the master, owner and consignee or agent are jointly and severally liable to the licensee therefor. [1957 c.448 §21; 1993 c.796 §15]

Source: Section 776.445 — Liability of certain persons for licensee’s compensation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.175 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.175
778.175 Effect of ORS 778.145 to 778.175
Status: in_force

ORS 778.145 (Issuance of revenue bonds) to 778.175 (Effect of ORS 778.145 to 778.175) is additional, alternative and supplemental authority for the Port of Portland and shall not abrogate any power, right or authority otherwise granted by law to the port. [1971 c.546 §8]

Source: Section 778.175 — Effect of ORS 778.145 to 778.175 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.470 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.470
777.470 Levy of tax to meet principal and interest
Status: in_force

Upon issuance of any refunding bonds the port board shall levy a tax sufficient to pay the principal and interest of such bonds at maturity. If the bonds are serial bonds the tax shall provide an amount of money sufficient to pay the next maturing installment of principal and the interest on the entire issue. If the bonds are issued as term bonds the tax shall be sufficient to raise an amount of money, which, if the same amount were raised each year thereafter for the life of the bonds, would produce a sum equal to the principal amount of the bonds so issued. The proceeds of taxes levied under this section shall be set aside when collected into a special fund and used for no other purpose than the payment of the bonds so issued. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §81]

Source: Section 777.470 — Levy of tax to meet principal and interest; amount required; disposition of proceeds of tax , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.485 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.485
777.485 Compromise and refunding agreements
Status: in_force

(1) A board may enter into agreement with the holders of its outstanding indebtedness providing for compromise of the indebtedness and the refunding thereof by the issuance of bonds under ORS 777.455 (Authority to issue refunding bonds for specified purposes) . An agreement may provide for the amount of refunding bonds to be issued, the interest rate the bonds are to bear, the dates of maturity of the bonds and the amount of money to be raised by taxes each year to pay the principal of and interest on the bonds. When an agreement is entered into, a port shall have complete authority to issue bonds in accordance therewith.

(2) The board may provide in the ordinance authorizing such refunding bonds:

(a) For setting aside a sinking or other fund into a special trust fund for payment of the bonds.

(b) For the pledging of taxes and other revenues directly to the payment of the principal of or interest on the bonds or to the sinking fund.

(c) For limitations on subsequent borrowings by the port either in the nature of permanent debt or temporary financing.

(d) For limitations on the amounts of appropriations in subsequent budgets for operating expenses.

(3) A port has all necessary authority to carry out the terms and conditions so included in any such ordinance. The validity of the refunding bonds, however, shall not be dependent upon nor affected by the validity or regularity of the ordinance provisions enumerated in subsection (2) of this section. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §84]

Source: Section 777.485 — Compromise and refunding agreements; contents; subsequent procedure; effect , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.010 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.010
783.010 Claims for which liens accorded
Status: in_force

Every boat or vessel used in navigating the water of this state or constructed in this state is liable and subject to a lien:

(1) For wages due to persons employed, for work done or services rendered on board such boat or vessel.

(2) For all debts due to persons by virtue of a contract, expressed or implied, with the owners of a boat or vessel, or with the agents, contractors or subcontractors of such owner, or with any person having them employed to construct, repair or launch such boat or vessel, on account of:

(a) Labor done or materials furnished by mechanics, tradesmen or others in the building, repairing, fitting and furnishing or equipping of such boat or vessel;

(b) Stores and supplies furnished for the use thereof;

(c) Premiums for insurance placed on or with respect to such boat or vessel; or

(d) Launchways constructed for the launching of such boat or vessel.

(3) For all sums for wharfage, anchorage or towage of such boat or vessel within this state.

(4) For all demands or damages accruing from the nonperformance or malperformance of any contract of affreightment, or of any contract touching the transportation of persons or property, entered into by the master, owner, agent or consignee of the boat or vessel on which such contract is to be performed, and for damages or injuries done to persons or property, by such boat or vessel, and for damages or injuries by such boat or vessel resulting in the death of any person. [Amended by 1981 c.548 §1; 2005 c.22 §511]

Source: Section 783.010 — Claims for which liens accorded , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.637 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.637
783.637 Late charges
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of Environmental Quality shall assess a late charge of $25 against the owner or operator of a vessel if the department has not received the fee specified in ORS 783.636 (Fees) by the due date specified by the department.

(2) The department shall assess an additional late charge of $25 if the owner or operator of a vessel has not paid the fee specified in ORS 783.636 (Fees) within 45 days after the due date specified by the department.

(3) The department may waive the late charges specified in this section upon a showing of good cause by the owner or operator of a vessel.

(4) All late charges collected by the department under this section shall be paid into the Ballast Water Fund established under ORS 783.638 (Ballast Water Fund) . [2011 c.321 §6]

Source: Section 783.637 — Late charges; waiver , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.036 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.036
778.036 Issuance of bonds
Status: in_force

Bonds authorized by ORS 778.030 (Power to issue general obligation bonds) shall be issued as prescribed in ORS chapter 287A. [1977 c.33 §3 (enacted in lieu of 778.035); 1981 c.94 §57; 1997 c.171 §26; 2007 c.783 §229]

Source: Section 778.036 — Issuance of bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.953 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.953
777.953 Annexation
Status: in_force

(1) The board, on its own motion, may initiate a proposal for annexation to the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay of territory that is not within the boundaries of another port organized under this chapter. Annexed territory may be either wholly or partially within or outside the same county in which the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay is located. However, if the territory proposed to be annexed is outside Coos County, the territory must be situated entirely within the watershed of the Coos River and its tributaries. The proposal for annexation shall be made in a resolution adopted by the board.

(2) After adoption of a resolution proposing annexation of the territory described in subsection (1) of this section to the port, the board shall fix a day for a public hearing before the board at which time the electors of the port and of the affected territory may appear and be heard on the question of annexation.

(3) The board shall cause notice of the hearing to be published once each week for two successive weeks prior to the day of the hearing in a newspaper of general circulation in the county and shall cause notices of the hearing to be posted in four public places in the port for the same period.

(4) After the public hearing, the board shall file the resolution proposing annexation with the governing body of the county in which the territory proposed to be annexed is situated. The county governing body shall order an election to be held in the territory. The county governing body shall also order the board to hold an election within the boundaries of the port on the same day, both elections to be held for the purpose of submitting the proposed annexation to the electors. The board shall certify the results of the election to the county governing body. The order of annexation shall be entered by the county governing body when a majority of all the votes cast in the territory and the port are in favor of the annexation.

(5) After the date of entry of an order by the county governing body annexing territory to the port, the territory annexed shall become subject to the outstanding indebtedness, bonded or otherwise, of the port in like manner as the territory within the port.

(6) Except as necessary to implement the provisions of subsection (7) of this section, ORS 198.705 (Definitions for ORS 198.705 to 198.955) to 198.955 (Disposition of assets) and 777.326 (Special procedure for annexations increasing by one-half or more the area or assessed value of taxable property within the port) do not apply to an annexation proceeding conducted under this section.

(7) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, the board may annex territory within the area constituting the Coos Bay rail link or land planned and zoned for industrial uses that is contiguous to the Coos Bay rail link. In lieu of the procedures described in subsections (2) to (5) of this section, annexation of territory within the area of the Coos Bay rail link or land planned and zoned for industrial uses that is contiguous to the Coos Bay rail link shall proceed only at the request of the landowner, in accordance with the annexation procedures set forth in ORS 198.857 (Annexation without election by petition of landowner) .

(b) Notwithstanding ORS 198.720 (Boundaries) (2), the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay may annex territory described in paragraph (a) of this subsection that is within the boundaries of another port. Annexation under this subsection does not withdraw the territory from the other port. [1987 c.565 §16a; 2007 c.804 §82; 2011 c.437 §3]

Source: Section 777.953 — Annexation; authority; procedure; effect , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.210 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.210
777.210 Port may engage in certain port management activities
Status: in_force

A port may:

(1) Establish, operate and maintain water transportation lines in any of the navigable waters of this state and waters tributary thereto, any portion of which may touch the boundaries of the port.

(2) Engage generally in the business of buying and selling coal, fuel oil and all kinds of fuel for watercraft of all kinds.

(3) Acquire, construct, maintain and operate sea walls, jetties, piers, wharves, docks, boat landings, warehouses, storehouses, elevators, grain bins, terminal icing plants, facilities for processing agricultural, fish or meat products, bunkers, oil tanks, ferries, canals, locks, tidal basins, bridges, subways, tramways, cableways, conveyors, power plants, power transmission lines, administration buildings and fishing terminals, and modern appliances and buildings for the economical handling, packing, storing and transportation of freight and handling of passenger traffic with full power to lease and sell the same, together with the lands upon which they are situated, whether held by the port in its governmental capacity or not.

(4) For the public convenience and the convenience of its shipping and commercial interests, may improve all or any portion of the waterfront of its harbors, rivers and waterways.

(5) Enlarge its tidal area, and construct, excavate and dredge canals and channels connecting its waterways with one another or with other waterways and the sea.

(6) Acquire, construct, maintain and operate airports anywhere within the port.

(7) Acquire, construct, maintain, operate, support, promote and invest in facilities and related activities for the propagation of fish in accordance with the commercial fishing laws.

(8) Acquire, construct, maintain and operate facilities for constructing, repairing or maintaining any type of watercraft. [1971 c.728 §23 (enacted in lieu of 777.130); 1979 c.407 §3; 2017 c.165 §1]

Source: Section 777.210 — Port may engage in certain port management activities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.250 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.250
777.250 Port powers with respect to development and use of its lands
Status: in_force

(1) A port may construct buildings or other improvements and acquire personal properties including but not limited to machinery and equipment considered necessary whether or not now in existence or under construction, suitable for use by any industry for the manufacturing, refining, processing or assembling of any agricultural, mining or other products or by any commercial enterprise in storing, warehousing, distributing or selling or servicing any products of agriculture, mining or industry or by any profit or nonprofit enterprise for research and development. The port has full power to lease and sell the buildings, improvements and personal property, together with the lands upon which they are situated, whether held by the port in its governmental capacity or not.

(2) In addition, a port may:

(a) Acquire and develop land, or develop land already owned, as the site for an industrial or research and development park, including as a part of such development provisions for water, sewage, drainage, roads, transportation, power, communication or other similar facilities which are incidental to the development of the site;

(b) Develop the site pursuant to a comprehensive plan in a manner compatible with other uses in the area in which the industrial or research and development park is located and adopt regulations necessary to implement the plan;

(c) Lease, sublease or sell tracts of land within an industrial or research and development park as building sites to any industry or commercial enterprise or profit or nonprofit enterprise described by this subsection; and

(d) Charge and collect fees for services made available within the industrial or research and development park.

(3) A port may acquire, construct, maintain or operate sports, recreation, convention and trade show facilities.

(4) For revenue bonding purposes under ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) to 777.590 (Authority to issue and sell revenue bonds) , projects undertaken under this section shall be classified as either:

(a) Sales, if the port is to sell outright or by conditional sale its interest in the property, or, if by contract the port’s title to the property is retained for a limited term only;

(b) Leases, if the port is only to rent, lease, sublease or charge a user fee for the property with the intention of retaining title to, or possession of, the property for its future benefit and use; or

(c) Loans, if the port is to lend the proceeds of such revenue bonds and has no ownership interest in the property. [1971 c.728 §27 (enacted in lieu of 777.130); 1979 c.109 §2; 1979 c.407 §1a; 1983 c.459 §15; 1987 c.103 §2; 1997 c.171 §22]

Source: Section 777.250 — Port powers with respect to development and use of its lands; industrial or research and development parks; sports, recreation, convention, trade show facilities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.260 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.260
778.260 Ordinances for regulating use of port properties
Status: in_force

(1) The board of the Port of Portland in accordance with ORS 198.510 (Definitions for ORS 198.510 to 198.600) to 198.600 (Penalty for violation of regulations) may by ordinance adopt, amend or repeal regulations as convenient or necessary to provide for policing or regulating the use of properties owned, operated, maintained or controlled by the port and of facilities located at or in conjunction with these properties.

(2) The port may appoint peace officers who have all the powers and authority given by statute to peace officers of this state.

(3) This section does not limit the authority of a state, county or municipal peace officer to enforce state laws and city and county ordinances at properties owned, operated, maintained or controlled by the port and at facilities located at or in conjunction with these properties. [1955 c.425 §§1,2,3; 1971 c.268 §22; 1971 c.728 §135; 1979 c.102 §1; 2009 c.299 §2]

Source: Section 778.260 — Ordinances for regulating use of port properties; port peace officers; jurisdiction , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.880 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.880
776.880 Civil penalties
Status: in_force

(1) In addition to any other penalty provided by law, any licensee or trainee who commits any act for which the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots could revoke, suspend or refuse to issue or renew a license is subject to a civil penalty in an amount determined by the board of not more than $250 for each offense.

(2) Any person who violates the provisions of ORS 776.405 (License required) (1)(a) is subject to a civil penalty in an amount as determined by the board of not less than $5,000 and not more than $50,000.

(3) Any person who violates the provisions of ORS 776.405 (License required) (1)(b) is subject to a civil penalty in an amount as determined by the board of not more than $5,000 for each offense.

(4) Civil penalties under this section shall be imposed as provided in ORS 183.745 (Civil penalty procedures) .

(5) All amounts recovered under this section are subject to ORS 776.365 (Pilot Account) . [1981 c.88 §11; 1991 c.234 §6; 1991 c.734 §102; 1993 c.796 §21; 2011 c.157 §5]

Source: Section 776.880 — Civil penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.020 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.020
783.020 Lien priority
Status: in_force

(1) The classes of claims specified in ORS 783.010 (Claims for which liens accorded) shall have priority according to the order in which they are enumerated.

(2) The liens under ORS 783.010 (Claims for which liens accorded) shall have precedence over all other liens and claims against such boat or vessel, except the following liens, claims and security interests, whether or not the following liens, claims or security interests have arisen or been perfected before or after liens under ORS 783.010 (Claims for which liens accorded) :

(a) Liens and claims arising under those portions of the Ship Mortgage Act, 1920, that appear in sections 921 to 954 and 971 to 975 of title 46 of the United States Code.

(b) Security interests perfected under ORS chapter 79.

(c) Security interests on certificates of title perfected under ORS chapter 830. [Amended by 1981 c.548 §2]

Source: Section 783.020 — Lien priority , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.050 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.050
777.050 Operation and effect of proclamation
Status: in_force

From the date of the formation order, the port specified in the order shall:

(1) Have perpetual succession.

(2) Have, and may exercise and carry out, the corporate powers and objects declared by ORS 777.005 (Definitions for ORS 777.005 to 777.725 and 777.915 to 777.953) to 777.725 (Borrowing money to pay bonus) and 777.915 (Definitions for ORS 777.915 to 777.953) to 777.953 (Annexation) .

(3) Make all contracts, hold, receive and dispose of real and personal property, and do all other acts and things which may be requisite, necessary or convenient in carrying out the objects of the corporation or exercising the powers conferred upon it.

(4) Sue and be sued, plead and be impleaded in all actions, suits or proceedings brought by or against it. [Amended by 1971 c.727 §184; 1971 c.728 §10]

Source: Section 777.050 — Operation and effect of proclamation; general corporate powers and capacity , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.045 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.045
776.045 Deck officer requirements
Status: in_force

(1) All vessels required by ORS 776.405 (License required) (1) to engage a licensee under this chapter shall, at all times while underway upon any of the pilotage grounds established under ORS 776.025 (Description of bar and river pilotage grounds) or 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) , have at least two licensed deck officers on the navigation bridge of the vessel, one of whom meets the requirements of ORS 776.405 (License required) (1).

(2) The only duties of the licensed deck officer required under ORS 776.405 (License required) (1) shall be to monitor and direct safe navigation of the vessel during transit on the waters of this state. [1991 c.234 §4; 1993 c.796 §2]

Source: Section 776.045 — Deck officer requirements , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.991 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.991
776.991 Criminal penalties
Status: in_force

Violation of any of the provisions of this chapter is a Class B misdemeanor. Notwithstanding ORS 137.286 (Minimum fines for misdemeanors and felonies) and 161.635 (Fines for misdemeanors) , the minimum fine for a violation of ORS 776.405 (License required) (1)(a) is $5,000 and the maximum fine is $50,000. [1957 c.448 §26; 1991 c.234 §7; 2011 c.597 §300]

Source: Section 776.991 — Criminal penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.365 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.365
776.365 Pilot Account
Status: in_force

The Pilot Account is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. All moneys received by the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots under this chapter shall be deposited in the account. All moneys in the account are continuously appropriated to the board and the board may use the moneys only to carry out the duties, functions and powers of the board, for the administration and enforcement of this chapter and for expenses incurred by the Public Utility Commission in its oversight of the board. [1957 c.448 §23; 1983 c.740 §256; 2007 c.768 §68; 2013 c.539 §5]

Source: Section 776.365 — Pilot Account; uses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.810 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.810
776.810 Maximum amount of fee
Status: in_force

(1) Subject to subsection (2) of this section, the maximum board operations fee for a vessel is $100.

(2) The Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots shall adjust the amount of the maximum board operations fee for a vessel each biennium beginning July 1, 2015, by a proportional amount equal to the percentage change in the 24-month period prior to the beginning of the biennium in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, West Region (All Items), as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the United States Department of Labor. [2013 c.539 §4; 2019 c.57 §35]

Source: Section 776.810 — Maximum amount of fee; adjustment of fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.150 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.150
778.150 Ordinance authorizing revenue bonds
Status: in_force

(1) Revenue bonds issued under ORS 778.145 (Issuance of revenue bonds) (1) shall be authorized at a meeting by ordinance of the board. The ordinance may provide for the creation of special trust funds and may authorize the appointment of a trustee to administer the same, and may obligate the Port of Portland to set aside and pay into a special trust fund for the purpose of securing revenue bonds, all or any portion of its revenues, regardless of the source from which derived, then existing or which thereafter come into existence, not otherwise pledged or committed for other purposes. The board may, in addition thereto, pledge or mortgage for the payment of the principal of and interest on and premium, if any, of any issue of such bonds any property of the port not pledged for other purposes. Notice that action upon the bond ordinance will be taken at the designated meeting of the board, shall be given for a period of not less than two consecutive weeks, prior to such meeting, by publication thereof once each week in a newspaper of general circulation, published within the corporate boundaries of the port or, if there be no such newspaper, by posting such notice for a period of not less than two weeks in three public places in the port.

(2) The money in any special trust fund created by an ordinance authorizing an issue of revenue bonds shall be used solely for the purposes provided therefor by the ordinance.

(3) The ordinance may obligate the port, and the port shall have power to fix, levy and collect such rates, rentals, fees and other charges for the use and services of all or any of its facilities, which revenues may be pledged to the payment of the principal of and interest on and premium, if any, of the revenue bonds or any of them and if so pledged shall be sufficient to produce revenues, along with other lawfully available funds, adequate to pay the costs of the operation, maintenance and repair of any or all port properties; to pay or provide for the payment of the principal of and interest on, and premium, if any, of such revenue bonds or any of them, including any reserves for such payment; and to produce such additional amount of revenues therefrom as the port may covenant with the holders of such revenue bonds.

(4) The ordinance may provide that in the event the money in a special trust fund is insufficient to pay the revenue bonds to be paid out of the fund, such revenue bonds shall be payable out of any part or all of other nonpledged revenues of the port. Whenever all bonds and expenses thereof have been paid so that no charge remains upon such special fund, the board may, by ordinance, transfer any balance remaining in such fund to its general fund, discharge the trustee, if any, and dissolve the special fund. Any trustee authorized to administer the fund, may, subject to approval of the board, invest and reinvest moneys in the special fund in any security or securities in which the State of Oregon may by law invest.

(5) If the board fails to set aside and pay revenues into a special trust fund as required by the ordinance authorizing the issuance and sale of the bonds secured by the fund, a holder of any of such bonds may bring suit against the port to compel compliance with the provisions of the ordinance in the circuit court of the county in which the port has its principal office. [1971 c.546 §3; 2007 c.783 §230a]

Source: Section 778.150 — Ordinance authorizing revenue bonds; content; special trust funds; trustees; enforcement , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.118 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.118
776.118 Additional authority of board
Status: in_force

In addition to its authority under ORS 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) , the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots may:

(1) Establish pilotage requirements for all single boiler or single engine and single screw tank vessels carrying oil in pilotage grounds;

(2) Review and, if appropriate, reduce deadweight tonnage specifications for pilotage service for vessels carrying oil;

(3) Establish regional speed limits, based on escort vehicle limitations, for all tank vessels in inland navigable waters and critical approaches to inland navigable waters; and

(4) Establish a program for a near-miss reporting system. [1991 c.651 §21; 1993 c.796 §5]

Source: Section 776.118 — Additional authority of board , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.065 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.065
778.065 Port taxing power
Status: in_force

The Port of Portland may each year assess, levy and collect taxes upon all taxable real and personal property situated within its boundaries as required:

(1) To pay principal and interest on bonds issued under ORS 778.030 (Power to issue general obligation bonds) ;

(2) To pay bonds, debentures and other obligations of the City of Portland assumed under ORS 778.020 (Acquisition of City of Portland property by port) ; and

(3) To pay all other expenses that may be incurred in the exercise of the powers granted to the port. [Amended by 1963 c.9 §40; 1971 c.701 §1; 1971 c.728 §143]

Source: Section 778.065 — Port taxing power; annual limitation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.570 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.570
777.570 Form of bonds
Status: in_force

Revenue bonds issued under ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) (1):

(1) Shall be negotiable instruments.

(2) Shall be issued under ORS chapter 287A, but the requirements of ORS 287A.150 (Authority of public body to issue revenue bonds) do not apply.

(3) Shall contain a recital that principal and interest on the revenue bonds are payable solely out of revenues and property of the port pledged to the payment thereof by the ordinance of the board authorizing the issue of which the bonds are a part.

(4) May contain covenants of the port to protect and safeguard the security and rights of holders of such bonds and such other terms and conditions, in conformity with ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) to 777.590 (Authority to issue and sell revenue bonds) , which the board determines are necessary or desirable to protect the port or increase the marketability of the bonds. [1955 c.423 §4; 1959 c.337 §3; 1965 c.223 §4; 1971 c.728 §141; 1971 c.778 §1; 1981 c.879 §3; 1997 c.171 §24; 2007 c.783 §227]

Source: Section 777.570 — Form of bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).