ORS § 777.065 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.065
777.065 Development of port facilities at certain ports as state economic goal
Status: in_force

The Legislative Assembly recognizes that assistance and encouragement of enhanced world trade opportunities are an important function of the state, and that development of new and expanded overseas markets for commodities exported from the ports of this state has great potential for diversifying and improving the economic base of the state. Therefore, development and improvement of port facilities suitable for use in world maritime trade at the Ports of Umatilla, Morrow, Arlington, The Dalles, Hood River and Cascade Locks and the development of deepwater port facilities at Astoria, Coos Bay, Newport, Portland and St. Helens is declared to be a state economic goal of high priority. All agencies of the State of Oregon are directed to assist in promptly achieving the creation of such facilities by processing applications for necessary permits in an expeditious manner and by assisting the ports involved with available financial assistance or services when necessary. [1981 c.879 §6; 1993 c.106 §1]

Note: 777.065 (Development of port facilities at certain ports as state economic goal) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was 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.

(Port Powers and Functions; Port Commissioners)

Source: Section 777.065 — Development of port facilities at certain ports as state economic goal; state agencies to assist ports , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.927 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.927
777.927 Removal of port commissioner for malfeasance
Status: in_force

If the Governor is at any time satisfied that a commissioner has been guilty of malfeasance in office, the Governor may file with the Secretary of State a written statement of the acts of the commissioner constituting the malfeasance. Thereupon the Secretary of State shall transmit a copy of the statement to the commissioner named and another copy to the clerk of the Circuit Court for Marion County. After the expiration of 10 days following the delivery of the statement to the commissioner a hearing shall be held before the court, of which hearing the commissioner is entitled to at least five days’ notice. If upon the hearing the court determines that the commissioner has been guilty of malfeasance in office, written findings to that effect shall be made and filed by the court. Thereupon the commissioner shall be considered removed from office. The vacancy so created shall be filled as provided in ORS 777.925 (Appointment of port commissioners) . [1987 c.565 §7]

Source: Section 777.927 — Removal of port commissioner for malfeasance; statement of charges; notice; court hearing , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.230 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.230
778.230 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. [Amended by 1969 c.345 §19; 1971 c.728 §130; 1987 c.51 §1]

Source: Section 778.230 — Board officers , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.258 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.258
777.258 General powers of port in promotion of certain interests
Status: in_force

A port may, in general, do such other acts and things, not mentioned by ORS 777.195 (Port may engage in certain water commerce-related activities) to 777.258 (General powers of port in promotion of certain interests) , as tend to promote the maritime shipping, aviation and commercial interests of the port. [1971 c.728 §28 (enacted in lieu of 777.130)]

Source: Section 777.258 — General powers of port in promotion of certain interests , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.020 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.020
778.020 Acquisition of City of Portland property by port
Status: in_force

(1) The Port of Portland may purchase or otherwise acquire all or any of the docks, wharves, elevators, terminals, dry docks and other properties of the City of Portland that are under the charge and control of the dock commission of the city.

(2) If the port purchases or otherwise acquires property as provided by subsection (1) of this section, the port may in payment therefor assume the payment of all or any part of the bonds, debentures and other obligations of the City of Portland issued, sold or incurred for the purpose of acquiring funds to construct, purchase or otherwise acquire the docks, wharves, elevators, terminals, dry docks or other properties. The aggregate amount of bonds, debentures and obligations so assumed shall not exceed a sum determined by the board to be the fair value of the property so acquired by the port. The limitation provided by ORS 778.030 (Power to issue general obligation bonds) shall not apply to bonds, debentures or other obligations assumed under this section.

(3) The authority granted by this section shall not be exercised without the prior approval of the electors residing within the port expressed at an election called and held within the port at which such question is submitted. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §105]

Source: Section 778.020 — Acquisition of City of Portland property by port; assumption of bonds; election , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.326 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.326
777.326 Special procedure for annexations increasing by one-half or more the area or assessed value of taxable property within the port
Status: in_force

(1) This section applies when an annexation would increase the area of a port by one-half or more, or would increase the assessed value of taxable property within a port by one-half or more. An annexation proposal subject to this section, if approved by the county board, shall be submitted to the electors at an election which shall be held at the same time as a primary election or general election.

(2) When the county board orders an election on the annexation proposal, the board shall adopt an order dividing or redividing the area of the port, including the territory annexed, into five subdistricts. The boundaries of the subdistricts shall be determined in accordance with ORS 777.155 (Division of ports into subdistricts) and shall be described in the order calling the election on the proposed annexation.

(3) At the first regular district election following the effective date of the annexation, one commissioner from each of the five subdistricts established under subsection (2) of this section shall be elected. The terms of the incumbent commissioners shall terminate and the terms of the commissioners elected under this subsection shall commence as provided in ORS 777.160 (Representation by subdistricts) .

(4) If the annexation is approved, the order proclaiming the annexation shall also describe the boundaries of the subdistricts established as provided by subsection (2) of this section. [1967 c.498 §2; 1971 c.647 §140; 1971 c.727 §§188,201; 1971 c.728 §49; 1983 c.350 §323; 1987 c.267 §79; 1995 c.712 §111; 1997 c.541 §386]

Source: Section 777.326 — Special procedure for annexations increasing by one-half or more the area or assessed value of taxable property within the port , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.625 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.625
783.625 Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 783.625 (Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640) to 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) , unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Ballast water” means any water used to manipulate the trim and stability of a vessel.

(2) “Cargo vessel” means a ship in commerce that is equipped with ballast tanks, other than a tank vessel or a vessel used solely for commercial fish harvesting, of 300 gross tons or more.

(3) “Coastal exchange” means exchanging the ballast water taken onboard at a North American coastal port at a distance of at least 50 nautical miles from land and at a depth of at least 200 meters.

(4) “Department” means the Department of Environmental Quality.

(5) “Empty ballast tank” means a ballast tank of a vessel that has been discharged of ballast water from a voyage and, as a result, is expected to have only unpumpable residual ballast water and sediment remaining in the ballast tank.

(6) “Oil” means oil, gasoline, crude oil, fuel oil, diesel oil, lubricating oil, oil sludge, oil refuse and any other petroleum related product.

(7) “Open sea exchange” means a replacement of ballast water that occurs in an area no less than 200 nautical miles from any shore.

(8) “Passenger vessel” means a ship of 300 gross tons or more carrying passengers for compensation.

(9) “Sediment” means any matter that settles out of ballast water.

(10) “Ship” means any boat, ship, vessel, barge or other floating craft of any kind.

(11) “Tank vessel” means a ship that is constructed or adapted to carry oil in bulk as cargo or cargo residue other than:

(a) A vessel carrying oil in drums, barrels or other packages;

(b) A vessel carrying oil as fuel or stores for that vessel; or

(c) An oil spill response barge or vessel.

(12) “Trip” means travel to an appointed destination and return travel to the point of origin within the waters of this state.

(13) “Vessel” means a tank vessel, cargo vessel or passenger vessel.

(14) “Voyage” means any transit by a vessel destined for any Oregon port.

(15) “Waters of this state” means natural waterways including all tidal and nontidal bays, intermittent streams, constantly flowing streams, lakes, wetlands and other bodies of water in this state, navigable and nonnavigable, including that portion of the Pacific Ocean that is in the boundaries of Oregon. [2001 c.722 §1; 2003 c.692 §1; 2005 c.62 §2; 2007 c.816 §2; 2011 c.321 §3; 2015 c.704 §1]

Source: Section 783.625 — Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.110 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.110
778.110 Personnel
Status: in_force

(1) The Port of Portland may employ engineers, superintendents, mechanics, clerks and other persons as necessary or convenient in carrying on its work and fix their rates of compensation.

(2) No employee of the port shall become a member of the Public Employees Retirement System if membership of the employee in the system would result in coverage of the employee by, and contributions on the employee’s behalf by the port to, both a private pension system and the Public Employees Retirement System. [Amended by 1971 c.495 §1; 1971 c.728 §144]

Source: Section 778.110 — Personnel; membership in retirement systems , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.068 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.068
778.068 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 §54]

Source: Section 778.068 — Filing boundary change with county assessor and Department of Revenue , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.950 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.950
777.950 Certain uses of proceeds of bonds issued without elector approval prohibited
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, proceeds from the sale of bonds issued by the port without the approval of the electors of the port under ORS 777.947 (Limitation on annual issuance and aggregate amount of bonds in absence of elector approval) , except for refunding bonds, shall be used only for construction, maintenance and repair of facilities and works necessary for industrial development within the port, construction, maintenance and repair of docks, piers, wharves, dredge and spoil sites and navigation aids and as matching moneys for state and federal grants for the purposes described in this section. [1987 c.565 §16]

Source: Section 777.950 — Certain uses of proceeds of bonds issued without elector approval prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.010 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.010
777.010 Areas that may be included in port
Status: in_force

(1) Ports may be formed in the manner provided in this section and ORS 777.050 (Operation and effect of proclamation) .

(2) A proposed port may include all the territory in one county. However, where a petition is filed for formation of a port, the territorial limits of which do not include the county as a whole, the limits proposed by the petition shall not extend beyond the natural watershed of any drainage basin whose waters flow into another bay, estuary or river navigable from the sea situate within the county. [Amended by 1959 c.602 §1; 1963 c.209 §1; 1967 c.342 §1; 1971 c.727 §182; 1971 c.728 §2; 2003 c.802 §149]

Source: Section 777.010 — Areas that may be included in port , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.353 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.353
777.353 Annexation of enclave
Status: in_force

When territory not part of another port or wholly belonging to the state or federal government is surrounded by the boundaries of a port, the board of the surrounding port may, by resolution, annex the territory to the port with or without the consent of any resident or owner of property within the territory and without submitting the proposed annexation to the electors for approval. [1963 c.268 §13; 1971 c.728 §52]

Source: Section 777.353 — Annexation of enclave , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.267 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.267
777.267 Marine Navigation Improvement Fund
Status: in_force

(1) The Marine Navigation Improvement Fund is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. Interest earned by the Marine Navigation Improvement Fund shall be credited to the fund. The moneys in the fund and interest earnings on the moneys in the fund are continuously appropriated to the Oregon Business Development Department for the Oregon Infrastructure Finance Authority for the purposes of:

(a) Paying a portion of the construction costs of dredging activities that constitute new federally authorized navigation improvement projects and are carried out in the harbors and channels on the Oregon coast and along the Columbia River when federal law or regulation requires a portion of the costs to be paid by nonfederal interests;

(b) Paying the study and construction costs of other new navigation improvement projects that directly support, or provide access to, a federally authorized navigation improvement project;

(c) Paying the study and construction costs of maintenance projects related to existing federally authorized navigation improvement projects; and

(d) Paying for portions of the cost of maintenance dredging projects undertaken with equipment owned by the State of Oregon at publicly owned ports and marinas.

(2) The Marine Navigation Improvement Fund established by this section consists of:

(a) Moneys appropriated or otherwise deposited into the fund by the Legislative Assembly;

(b) Repayment of loans made with moneys in the fund; and

(c) Bond proceeds deposited in the fund.

(3) Moneys in the fund shall be used primarily to make loans to ports for eligible projects. The authority may award a grant or provide other assistance from moneys in the fund to a port for an eligible project only if a loan is not feasible due to the financial hardship of the port or other special circumstances, as set forth in rules adopted by the department.

(4) Eligibility for assistance from the Marine Navigation Improvement Fund shall be limited to and funded, subject to the availability of funds, in the following order of priority:

(a) Maintenance projects related to existing federally authorized navigation improvement projects.

(b) Other new navigation improvement projects that directly support, or provide access to, a federally authorized navigation improvement project or a federally authorized navigation channel.

(c) New federally authorized navigation improvement projects.

(d) Payment of portions of the cost of maintenance dredging projects undertaken with equipment owned by the State of Oregon at publicly owned ports and marinas.

(5) The authority shall limit financial assistance for construction costs under subsection (1)(a) of this section to those projects that have completed all federally required studies.

(6) The authority shall limit financial assistance for construction costs under subsection (1)(b) of this section to projects sponsored by a port, as defined in ORS 777.005 (Definitions for ORS 777.005 to 777.725 and 777.915 to 777.953) or 778.005 (Definitions) , that meet criteria developed by the authority.

(7) The authority shall limit financial assistance for study costs under subsection (1)(b) of this section to projects that meet criteria developed by the authority.

(8) The authority shall limit financial assistance for study and construction costs under subsection (1)(c) of this section to projects that meet criteria developed by the authority. [1989 c.1020 §2; 1991 c.461 §87; subsection (3) enacted as 1991 c.461 §88; 2001 c.570 §1; 2003 c.741 §13; 2009 c.830 §143; 2013 c.621 §4; 2017 c.750 §87]

Note: See note under 777.262 (Port dredging activities) .

Source: Section 777.267 — Marine Navigation Improvement Fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.095 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.095
777.095 Agreement between Port of Astoria and State Land Board concerning deepwater port facility at Tongue Point
Status: in_force

Any agreement between the Port of Astoria, individually or in conjunction with another port, pursuant to ORS 777.090 (Agreements between ports) , and the State Land Board shall specify a division between the parties of all net revenues accruing from the management of the deepwater port facility at Tongue Point. The State Land Board’s share of the net revenues shall be transferred to the Department of State Lands and credited to the Common School Fund. [1981 c.879 §9]

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

Source: Section 777.095 — Agreement between Port of Astoria and State Land Board concerning deepwater port facility at Tongue Point; division of revenue; board’s share credited to Common School Fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.375 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.375
776.375 Disciplinary proceedings
Status: in_force

(1) Where the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots proposes to refuse to issue or renew a license to pilot, or proposes to revoke or suspend a license or proposes to issue a written reprimand, opportunity for hearing shall be accorded as provided in ORS chapter 183.

(2) Adoption of rules, conduct of hearings, issuance of orders and judicial review of rules and orders shall be as provided in ORS chapter 183. Contested case hearings shall be conducted by an administrative law judge assigned from the Office of Administrative Hearings established under ORS 183.605 (Office of Administrative Hearings) . [1971 c.734 §186; 1981 c.88 §14; 1993 c.796 §10; 1999 c.849 §§181,182; 2003 c.75 §64]

Source: Section 776.375 — Disciplinary proceedings; administrative procedures; judicial review , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.028 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.028
776.028 Columbia River bar precautionary zone
Status: in_force

The Columbia River bar precautionary zone is established. The Columbia River bar precautionary zone extends seaward of the Columbia River bar pilotage ground, lying between the western boundary of the Columbia River bar pilotage ground, and the line drawn as follows: Beginning on shore at a point that is 46° 26” 00’ north latitude, 124° 03” 24’ west longitude; then proceeding due west to a point that is 46° 26” 00’ north latitude, 124° 20” 48’ west longitude; then proceeding southwesterly and then southeasterly along the United States 12 nautical mile territorial sea boundary line to a point on that boundary that is 46° 04” 18’ north latitude, 124° 14” 06’ west longitude; then due east to shore. [2011 c.157 §3]

Source: Section 776.028 — Columbia River bar precautionary zone , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.160 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.160
783.160 Sale of appurtenances for fractional share of boat or vessel
Status: in_force

If it appears to the court in which the action is pending, or the judge thereof, that the liens against the boat or vessel can be satisfied by a sale of the tackle, apparel and furniture, or a part thereof, or a fractional share in such boat or vessel, the court or judge may modify the order of sale accordingly. If in pursuance of such order a sale is made of a fractional share in such boat or vessel, the purchaser shall hold such share jointly with the other owners.

Source: Section 783.160 — Sale of appurtenances for fractional share of boat or vessel , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.630 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.630
783.630 Application
Status: in_force

(1) ORS 783.625 (Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640) to 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) apply to all vessels carrying ballast water from a voyage into the waters of this state, except a vessel that:

(a) Discharges ballast water only at the location where the ballast water originated, if the ballast water is not mixed with ballast water from areas other than open sea waters;

(b) Does not discharge ballast water in waters of this state;

(c) Traverses only the internal waters of this state;

(d) Traverses only the territorial sea of the United States and does not enter or depart an Oregon port or navigate the waters of this state;

(e) Discharges ballast water that originated solely from waters located between the parallel 40 degrees north latitude and the parallel 50 degrees north latitude on the west coast of North America; or

(f) Discharges ballast water that has been treated to remove organisms in a manner pursuant to rules adopted by the Environmental Quality Commission under ORS 783.635 (Discharge of ballast water prohibited) .

(2) ORS 783.625 (Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640) to 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) do not authorize the discharge of oil or noxious liquid substances in a manner prohibited by state, federal or international laws or regulations. Ballast water containing oil or noxious liquid substances shall be discharged in accordance with the requirements applicable to those substances.

(3) Nothing in this section:

(a) Requires an open sea or coastal exchange if the owner or operator in charge of a vessel determines that performing an open sea or coastal exchange would threaten the safety or stability of the vessel or the safety of the vessel’s crew or passengers because of any extraordinary condition, including but not limited to adverse weather, vessel design limitations or equipment failure.

(b) Exempts the owner or operator in charge of a vessel from the reporting requirements under ORS 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) , whether or not ballast water is carried or discharged in the waters of this state. [2001 c.722 §2; 2003 c.692 §2; 2005 c.62 §5; 2015 c.704 §2]

Source: Section 783.630 — Application; exclusions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.025 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.025
778.025 Power to engage in certain commercial activities
Status: in_force

For the use of the Port of Portland or for public convenience and the convenience of air transport, shipping, commercial and industrial development of the port and the waterfront of its harbors, rivers and waterways, the port may:

(1) Acquire by purchase, condemnation or other lawful method lands necessary for its use or to be improved for public convenience and the convenience of the air transport, shipping, commercial and industrial development of the port as well as all or any part of the waterfront of its harbors, rivers and waterways.

(2) Acquire by purchase, condemnation or other lawful method lands necessary or convenient for the purpose of depositing or dumping thereon earth, sand, gravel, rock or other material dredged or excavated, in the exercise of any of its powers, from any of the rivers or other waterways or lands within the boundaries or under the control of the port.

(3) Enlarge its tidal area, fill and reclaim lands, and make such disposition by use, conveyance, development or lease of lands so filled or reclaimed as it considers advisable.

(4) Construct, excavate and dredge canals and channels connecting its waterways with one another, with other waterways and with the sea.

(5) Purchase or otherwise acquire, construct, operate, maintain, lease, rent and dispose of airports, and their approaches, wharves, piers, docks, slips, warehouses, elevators, dry docks, terminals, buildings, and all other facilities and aids incident to the development, protection and operation of the port and of the air transport, shipping, commercial and industrial interests of the port, within the port, and collect wharfage, storage and other charges for the use of such facilities.

(6) Own, acquire, construct, purchase, lease, operate and maintain within the port lines of railroad, with sidetracks, turnouts, switches and connections with other lines of railroad, and streets, roads, water mains, sewers, pipelines, and also gas and electric conduits and lines which a utility is unwilling or unable to furnish, within or to or from the boundaries of the port; and carry and transport freight and passengers thereon and thereover for hire, and perform lighterage for hire.

(7) Acquire, own, lease, rent, operate, maintain and dispose of towboats, barges and other vessels for the transportation of cargo or passengers in maritime commerce on the Columbia and Snake Rivers and their tributaries, within or without the boundaries of this state.

(8) 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. [Amended by 1959 c.362 §2; 1967 c.548 §1; 1971 c.728 §106; 1973 c.178 §6; 1981 c.879 §4]

Source: Section 778.025 — Power to engage in certain commercial activities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.360 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.360
783.360 Priority of attachment
Status: in_force

The attachment provided for in ORS 783.330 (Attachment against vessel) shall have priority over any mortgage upon the vessel and over any liens thereon not of a maritime nature.

Source: Section 783.360 — Priority of attachment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.073 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.073
778.073 Recreational facilities
Status: in_force

(1) The Port of Portland may construct, operate, equip and maintain public parks, marinas and other recreational facilities on land owned by the port when such facilities may be developed in conjunction with the exercise by the port of any of its other powers.

(2) The port may convey the land and recreational facilities developed under this section to a political subdivision or municipal corporation of this state in exchange for an agreement to operate and maintain the facilities solely for public recreational use.

(3) The port may enter into an agreement with a political subdivision or municipal corporation of this state for the operation and maintenance of recreational facilities. [1971 c.400 §2]

Source: Section 778.073 — Recreational facilities; development; operation; maintenance , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.025 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.025
776.025 Description of bar and river pilotage grounds
Status: in_force

Except as may be established by the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots under ORS 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) (3), bar and river pilotage grounds shall be as follows:

(1) The Columbia River bar pilotage ground extends from a line across the Columbia River along 123° 44” 00’ west longitude, then downstream to the open ocean at the entrance to the Columbia River, and includes the navigable waters encompassed by the following boundaries: Beginning at the ocean shore at a point that is 46° 19” 06’ north latitude, 124° 04” 06’ west longitude; then proceeding due west a distance of five miles to a point that is 46° 19” 06’ north latitude, 124° 11” 42’ west longitude; then proceeding on an arc in a southerly and southeasterly direction that is two miles west of and parallel to the Three Nautical Mile Line, as determined by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Office of Coast Survey, to a southernmost point that is 46° 09” 06’ north latitude, 124° 05” 36’ west longitude; then due east to shore.

(2) The Columbia and Willamette River pilotage ground extends from the head of navigation on the Columbia and Willamette Rivers and their tributaries; then downstream to the line across the Columbia River 123° 55” 00’ west longitude.

(3) The Coos Bay bar pilotage ground extends from the head of navigation on Coos Bay and its tributaries; then downstream to the open ocean at the entrance to Coos Bay and includes the navigable ocean area encompassed by the following boundaries: Beginning at the ocean shore; then west along the line of latitude 43° 24” 00’ north to the intersection with the line of longitude 124° 22” 00’ west; then southwest on a line to the point that is 43° 22” 00’ north latitude, 124° 24” 00’ west longitude; then southeast on a line to the point that is 43° 20” 00’ north latitude, 124° 22” 00’ west longitude.

(4) The Yaquina Bay bar pilotage ground extends from the head of navigation on Yaquina Bay and its tributaries; then downstream to the open ocean at the entrance to Yaquina Bay and includes the navigable ocean area encompassed by the following boundaries: Beginning at the ocean shore; then west along the line of latitude 44° 39” 00’ north to the intersection with the line of longitude 124° 08” 00’ west; then south along the line of longitude 124° 08” 00’ west to the intersection with the line of latitude 44° 35” 00’ north; then east along the line of latitude 44° 35” 00’ north to the ocean shore. [1957 c.448 §2; 1993 c.741 §112b; 1993 c.796 §1a; 2011 c.157 §1]

Source: Section 776.025 — Description of bar and river pilotage grounds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.930 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.930
777.930 Removal of port commissioner for lack of attendance
Status: in_force

(1) If a commissioner appointed under ORS 777.925 (Appointment of port commissioners) fails, without being excused by the remaining members of the board, to attend for a period of 60 days any of the regular or special meetings of the board regularly and duly called and held, that commissioner may be removed from office by the Governor.

(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 Oregon International Port of Coos Bay. [1987 c.565 §10]

Source: Section 777.930 — Removal of port commissioner for lack of attendance; authorized leave of absence , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.030 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.030
778.030 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 of Portland, 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) . In computing the total of bonds at any time outstanding, bonds issued for the purpose of providing funds to meet obligations assumed pursuant to ORS 778.020 (Acquisition of City of Portland property by port) , shall not be included. The bonds shall be secured by the taxing power of the port as provided in ORS 778.065 (Port taxing power) (1). 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. [Amended by 1963 c.9 §39; 1971 c.702 §1; 1971 c.728 §107a; 1977 c.33 §1; 1991 c.459 §443]

Source: Section 778.030 — Power to issue general obligation bonds; limitation; dedication of revenues; use of proceeds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.933 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.933
777.933 Board meetings
Status: in_force

(1) The board shall hold at least one regular meeting in each month on a day to be fixed by it, and may hold special meetings as provided by the rules of the board. At all regular and special meetings a majority of the commissioners then members of the board constitutes a quorum.

(2) The board may create an executive committee of which every commissioner shall be a member and of which a number less than a majority, as the board may determine, may constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. The committee may hold its meetings under such rules as the board may prescribe. However, the executive committee has no power except as a committee and only as expressly conferred upon it by the rules of the board. In no event shall the committee exercise the general powers of the board. The board has no power to appoint or delegate any part of its power or authority to any committee except the executive committee. [1987 c.565 §8]

Source: Section 777.933 — Board meetings; rules; executive committee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 780.060 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 780 / Section 780.060
780.060 Construction not to interfere with oyster production
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter authorizes the construction of a wharf, dock, pier, moorage or similar structure at any place where its construction and operation will substantially impair or interfere with the cultivation and taking of oysters subject to the provisions of ORS 622.210 (Department defined) to 622.300 (Use of fees and taxes) and 622.320 (Plats as private property) . [1969 c.675 §20; 1973 c.328 §4]

Source: Section 780.060 — Construction not to interfere with oyster production , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors780.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.430 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.430
777.430 Taxing powers of ports
Status: in_force

(1) In carrying out the purposes of 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) , a port may assess, levy and collect taxes upon all taxable real and personal property situated within the port, in an amount each year not to exceed one-fourth of one percent (0.0025) of the real market value of the property, computed in accordance with ORS 308.207 (Computation of real market value for taxing or bonding limitations) .

(2) Each year a port may also assess, levy and collect a tax upon all such property in an amount sufficient to pay the yearly interest on general obligation bonds or other evidences of indebtedness theretofore issued by the port and then outstanding, together with any portion of the principal of general obligation bonds maturing within that year. The tax shall be applied only in payment of interest and principal of such bonds or indebtedness. However, the board may apply any other funds it may have toward such payments.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) A port may assess, levy and collect a tax upon all taxable real and personal property situated within the port for the purpose of providing revenue to a city or county in which the port is located for law enforcement services provided by the city or county within the boundaries of the port.

(b) A tax described in this subsection may be levied only as prescribed under ORS 280.040 (Definitions for ORS 280.040 to 280.145) to 280.145 (Serial levy under former law) .

(c) The transfer of moneys raised pursuant to this subsection to a city or county for funding law enforcement services of the city or county within the port is a public purpose for which a port levying a tax under this subsection has been organized. [Amended by 1963 c.9 §38; 1971 c.728 §73; 1991 c.459 §440; 2001 c.500 §1]

Source: Section 777.430 — Taxing powers of ports , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.415 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.415
777.415 Resolution and election prerequisite to issuance of bonds
Status: in_force

When it is proposed to borrow money or to sell and dispose of bonds as authorized by ORS 777.410 (Ports may borrow money and issue bonds) (1), a board shall first pass a resolution authorizing the borrowing of money and the issuance and sale of bonds. The resolution shall state the amount of money to be raised, the maximum rate of interest that the bonds will bear and the nature and terms of the bonds. The resolution also shall state the general purpose for which the moneys to be raised are to be used. The question of issuance of the bonds shall then be referred by the board to the electors of the port at a special election to be called for that purpose. The money raised shall be expended for no other purpose than that expressed in the resolution and the purpose shall be stated in the ballot title used in the election. A contract involving the expenditure of funds to be raised under ORS 777.410 (Ports may borrow money and issue bonds) (1) shall not be entered into by the board until the borrowing of the funds is approved by a majority of those voting on the question at the special election provided for by this section. [Amended by 1957 c.375 §2; 1971 c.647 §142; 1971 c.728 §72]

Source: Section 777.415 — Resolution and election prerequisite to issuance of bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.760 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.760
777.760 Definitions for ORS 777.755 to 777.800
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 777.755 (Legislative findings and policy) to 777.800 (Annual report) , unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Board” means the board of directors of an export trading corporation.

(2) “Commissioner” means a member of the board of commissioners of a port.

(3) “Commissioners of the port” means the board of commissioners of the port which formed the export trading corporation.

(4) “Export trading corporation” means a municipal corporation formed by a port under 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) .

(5) “Export trading project” means a transaction or arrangement for the purchase, sale, exchange or delivery of goods or services in international trade or commerce.

(6) “Port” means a municipal corporation formed under 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) , 777.915 (Definitions for ORS 777.915 to 777.953) to 777.953 (Annexation) and 777.990 (Penalties) or ORS chapter 778.

(7) “Services” includes, but is not limited to, architectural, automatic data processing, business, communications, consulting, engineering, financial, insurance, legal, management, product research and design, repair, training and transportation services. [1983 c.200 §2; 2007 c.804 §81]

Source: Section 777.760 — Definitions for ORS 777.755 to 777.800 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.435 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.435
776.435 Refusing services of licensee
Status: in_force

The master or person in charge of any vessel may refuse to accept the services of any particular licensee and shall call for another licensee, in which case the vessel and the owners, operators and agents of the vessel are liable only for the services of the licensee employed. [1957 c.448 §20(2); 1983 c.330 §2; 1991 c.234 §5; 1993 c.796 §14]

Source: Section 776.435 — Refusing services of licensee; liability for pilotage fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.535 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.535
777.535 Installment payment of special assessment
Status: in_force

The provisions of ORS 223.205 (Scope and application) to 223.316 (Local governments required to make system development charge information public) (Bancroft Bonding Act) and ORS 223.770 (Assessment of public property benefited by improvements) relating to the assessment of property benefited by public improvements and to the issuance of bonds and other obligations for the cost of such improvements, shall apply insofar as practicable and applicable in relation to the assessment by ports of the cost or any portion of the cost of improvements against the property benefited in accordance with ORS 777.530 (Special assessments for local improvement) and to the issuance of bonds and other obligations by the port. However, notwithstanding ORS 223.295 (Limit on city indebtedness) , the limitation specified in ORS 777.410 (Ports may borrow money and issue bonds) (1)(a) on the amount of general obligation bonds outstanding at any one time applies to bonds and other obligations issued under this section. [1989 c.644 §3; 1991 c.902 §116; 1995 c.333 §21; 1997 c.249 §223]

Note: See note under 777.530 (Special assessments for local improvement) .

Source: Section 777.535 — Installment payment of special assessment; limitation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.262 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.262
777.262 Port dredging activities
Status: in_force

(1) The Legislative Assembly finds:

(a) That recent changes in federal law authorize the United States Army Corps of Engineers to require ports and other local communities to provide a portion of the costs of dredging harbors and channels near those communities;

(b) That port districts and communities in this state cannot afford to pay the costs necessary to continue the dredging activities that are essential to keep the major harbors and waterways navigable for larger vessels in maritime trade; and

(c) That the State of Oregon must therefore pay for the dredging activities when ports cannot, or this state must tolerate the loss of maritime trade and commerce that will inevitably result from the halt of dredging activities.

(2) Therefore, it is the purpose of this section and one purpose of ORS 777.267 (Marine Navigation Improvement Fund) to provide a method of financing all or part of the nonfederal portion of the costs of dredging activities that constitute new federally authorized navigation improvements in the ports of this state when those ports are unable to finance the activities. [1989 c.1020 §1; 2013 c.621 §3]

Note: 777.262 (Port dredging activities) and 777.267 (Marine Navigation Improvement Fund) 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 777.262 — Port dredging activities; legislative findings and purpose , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.720 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.720
777.720 Discretion of board in making payment
Status: in_force

A board may expend the money raised as authorized by ORS 777.725 (Borrowing money to pay bonus) in the form of a bonus or bonuses payable to the persons described by ORS 777.715 (Ports may pay bonuses in aid of water transportation and may charter vessels) . The money shall be expended in the manner and at such times as the board determines will result in the greatest benefit and advantage to the port and will best aid the establishment and continued operation of the water transportation lines. The board may contract as may be necessary to carry into effect the purposes of ORS 777.725 (Borrowing money to pay bonus) . [Amended by 1971 c.728 §100]

Source: Section 777.720 — Discretion of board in making payment; contracts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.340 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.340
783.340 Redelivery of attached vessel
Status: in_force

The sheriff shall redeliver the vessel attached to the owner or master thereof upon the owner or master delivering to the sheriff an undertaking, with one or more sufficient sureties approved by the judge of the court, or in case of the judge’s absence by the sheriff, which undertaking shall be so conditioned that the obligors therein shall pay to the plaintiff the judgment rendered in the cause. The sureties thereon shall in the aggregate justify in double the amount of the undertaking.

Source: Section 783.340 — Redelivery of attached vessel , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.220 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.220
778.220 Removal
Status: in_force

If the Governor is at any time satisfied that a commissioner has been guilty of malfeasance in office, the Governor may file with the Secretary of State a written statement of the acts of the commissioner constituting the malfeasance. Thereupon the Secretary of State shall transmit a copy of the statement to the commissioner named and another copy to the clerk of the Circuit Court for Multnomah County. After the expiration of 10 days following the delivery of the statement to the commissioner a hearing shall be held before the court, of which hearing the commissioner is entitled to at least five days’ notice. If upon the hearing the court determines that the commissioner has been guilty of malfeasance in office, written findings to that effect shall be made and filed by the court. Thereupon the commissioner shall be considered removed from office. The vacancy so created shall be filled as provided in ORS 778.215 (Appointment) . [Amended by 1971 c.728 §128]

Source: Section 778.220 — Removal , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.311 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.311
776.311 Organizations licensed to train pilots
Status: in_force

(1) No organization of pilots shall be licensed to train persons to be pilots under this chapter unless the organization:

(a) Has members who are licensed to pilot under ORS 776.325 (Qualifications of licensees) ; and

(b) Meets other requirements established by the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots.

(2) The board shall license at least one pilot organization on each pilotage ground.

(3) Organizations of pilots shall train only persons who are licensed as trainees and have been assigned for training by the board under ORS 776.300 (Trainee license) . [1993 c.796 §8b]

Source: Section 776.311 — Organizations licensed to train pilots , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.765 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.765
777.765 Powers of export trading corporation
Status: in_force

An export trading corporation shall constitute a municipal corporation of this state and a public body, corporate and politic, exercising public power. No part of the net earnings of an export trading corporation shall accrue to the benefit of a private person. An export trading corporation may:

(1) Develop, manage and operate export trading projects.

(2) Conduct market research, advertising and marketing, within and outside the boundaries of this state.

(3) Purchase or otherwise acquire, finance, hold, maintain, sell, lease or otherwise dispose of goods or services of every type or nature, within or outside the boundaries of this state.

(4) Acquire or provide communication, insurance, legal assistance, transportation, including trade documentation and freight forwarding, foreign exchange, letters of credit and other necessary or desirable services.

(5) Purchase or otherwise acquire, construct, operate, maintain, lease, rent and dispose of warehouses, elevators, terminals, buildings and other necessary or desirable facilities, within or outside the boundaries of this state.

(6) Enter into contracts, joint ventures, brokerage or other agreements with any person for the purchase, sale or distribution of goods or services, within or outside the boundaries of this state.

(7) Levy and collect rentals, commissions, fees, storage and other charges for use of facilities or services rendered.

(8) Apply for and accept financial, technical or other assistance from any person, including the federal, state, county or city government, or other municipal corporations.

(9) Enter into contracts with any governmental entity or municipal corporation.

(10) Do such other acts or things as may be necessary or convenient for the exercise of the powers granted by 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) . [1983 c.200 §10]

Source: Section 777.765 — Powers of export trading corporation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.090 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.090
778.090 Rights of riparian owners and owners of moorage facilities
Status: in_force

Where it is necessary to widen the general channel or improve the navigation of the rivers or sloughs by requiring the removal or destruction of moorage facilities for houseboats, boathouses or pleasure craft in the rivers or sloughs, or by establishing or reestablishing wharf lines that have the effect of destroying or impairing the riparian rights of the adjoining owners, the adjoining owners or others owning the moorage facilities shall be reasonably compensated for the removal or destruction of the moorage facilities and for the destruction or impairment of the riparian rights; and shall not be required to remove or destroy the moorage facilities in absence of reasonable compensation therefor. The Port of Portland may acquire moorage facilities, riparian rights or the real property of adjoining owners by exercise of the power of eminent domain as provided in ORS 778.095 (Eminent domain power) . [Amended by 1953 c.713 §2; 1971 c.728 §118; 1973 c.203 §9]

Source: Section 778.090 — Rights of riparian owners and owners of moorage facilities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.705 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.705
777.705 Definitions for ORS 777.705 to 777.725
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 777.705 (Definitions for ORS 777.705 to 777.725) to 777.725 (Borrowing money to pay bonus) , “bonus” or “bonuses” includes payment of funds for:

(1) Chartering vessels;

(2) Guaranteeing to vessels, transportation lines, companies or persons, cargo and tonnage, and guaranteeing to vessels, transportation lines, companies or persons against loss on account of delay in the Columbia River or Willamette River or at the Columbia River bar;

(3) Absorption of charges for lightering, dredging, towage and pilotage of any vessels; or

(4) Fixing of pilotage and stevedoring charges, seamen’s wages, fuel costs, supplies and other charges and expenses incident to maritime commerce, at such a rate as may place a port on a competitive basis in such matter with other ports. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §97]

Source: Section 777.705 — Definitions for ORS 777.705 to 777.725 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.145 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.145
778.145 Issuance of revenue bonds
Status: in_force

(1) For the purpose of carrying into effect all or any of the powers granted to ports, the Port of Portland may from time to time issue and sell revenue bonds without the necessity of the electors of the port authorizing the same. Proceeds from the sale of such bonds may be used also to cover the costs incurred in issuing such bonds, and preliminary work incident to carrying out such purposes and powers, including but not limited to planning, engineering, inspection, accounting, fiscal, legal and trustee expenses, the cost of issuance of bonds, engraving, printing, advertising and other similar expenses, and to pay interest on the outstanding bonds issued for any project during the period of actual construction and for such period thereafter as the port may determine, and to establish, maintain or increase any reserves for debt service on the bonds and for working capital. Such revenue bonds shall not in any manner or to any extent be a general obligation of the port nor a charge upon any other revenues or property of the port not specifically pledged thereto.

(2) In addition to the power granted by subsection (1) of this section, a port may authorize and issue revenue bonds under ORS 287A.150 (Authority of public body to issue revenue bonds) . [1971 c.546 §2; 2007 c.783 §230]

Source: Section 778.145 — Issuance of revenue bonds; election; use of proceeds; status of bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.132 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.132
777.132 Authority of ports to distribute water
Status: in_force

(1) A port may distribute water for domestic purposes, industrial purposes, irrigation purposes or for the purposes of recharging ground water basins or reservoirs within or without the port.

(2) A port may construct, improve, maintain and operate public marina or other recreation facilities. Such facilities may include campgrounds or parks which the port may operate and maintain or lease to public or private organizations or persons for operation and maintenance. [1969 c.497 §3; 1971 c.728 §29; 1973 c.127 §1; 1974 c.39 §1; 1987 c.103 §1]

Note: 777.132 (Authority of ports to distribute water) 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 777.132 — Authority of ports to distribute water; construct and maintain marina and recreation facilities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.440 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.440
777.440 Levy of special tax by county court upon default of port officers
Status: in_force

If a port fails or refuses to levy the special tax provided by ORS 777.430 (Taxing powers of ports) (2), within the time provided, in an amount sufficient to pay the interest accruing during the 12 months following October 1 next ensuing on bonds theretofore issued by the port and then outstanding, together with any portion of the principal of such bonds maturing within the 12 months, the county board of the county in which the port is located, shall levy at its July term immediately following such failure or refusal by the port, a tax on all the taxable real and personal property situated within the port, at a rate sufficient to pay such interest and principal. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §75]

Source: Section 777.440 — Levy of special tax by county court upon default of port officers , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.129 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.129
776.129 Administrative law judge for rate hearings
Status: in_force

(1) When the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots establishes rates described in ORS 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) (5), the board shall contract with and compensate the Public Utility Commission of Oregon for the use of administrative law judges assigned by the commission to conduct the rate proceeding. Notwithstanding ORS 183.413 (Notice to parties before hearing of rights and procedure) to 183.470 (Orders in contested cases) , an administrative law judge shall conduct the proceeding in compliance with procedures adopted by the board by rule. The administrative law judge and the board may receive and consider recommendations made by the Oregon Business Development Department and the Port of Portland.

(2) The board may defray the costs and expenses of the hearing by assessing, in its final order, all or a portion of the costs and expenses of the hearing to a party to the hearing. [1987 c.775 §2; 1989 c.171 §85; 1989 c.293 §1; 1993 c.741 §112a; 1993 c.796 §6; 1999 c.849 §§178,179; 2003 c.75 §63; 2003 c.619 §2; 2007 c.288 §17]

LICENSING; COMPENSATION; LIABILITY

Source: Section 776.129 — Administrative law judge for rate hearings; recommendations from other agencies; assessing costs and expenses of hearing , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.580 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.580
783.580 Tugboat operator refusing to tow
Status: in_force

Any tugboat towing for hire in any of the waters of this state is a common carrier for the business of towing vessels. No master or owner of any such tug shall refuse to tow any vessel of the class usually towed by such a tug, or shall discriminate either in the charges for towing or in time; but they shall tow all such vessels in the order in which they may be announced ready; provided, that towing in or out of a bar harbor may take precedence over towing inside of such harbor.

Source: Section 783.580 — Tugboat operator refusing to tow; discrimination in charges , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.112 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.112
777.112 Contracts or intergovernmental agreements between ports and others
Status: in_force

(1) A port may enter into intergovernmental agreements under ORS chapter 190 for any purpose permitted under that chapter.

(2) Any port may enter into a contract with any person or into an intergovernmental agreement under ORS chapter 190 for the use and control of water for promoting erosion control, pollution control or otherwise protecting, maintaining and enhancing waters within the boundaries of the port district.

(3) Expenses incurred or revenues received in the performance of a contract or agreement entered into under subsections (1) and (2) of this section shall be allocated among the parties as the contract or agreement shall provide. [1961 c.367 §3; 1971 c.691 §1; 1971 c.728 §139; 2003 c.802 §150; 2017 c.84 §1]

Source: Section 777.112 — Contracts or intergovernmental agreements between ports and others , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.230 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.230
777.230 Port may generate electric power
Status: in_force

(1) A port may:

(a) Design, erect, complete, operate and maintain all necessary hydroelectric, steam-generating, electric, oil, gasoline or other power-producing plants or systems, for the purpose of generating electrical current for lighting and power purposes.

(b) Acquire rights of way for the placing of transmission lines over which to carry the electrical energy required between the points of origin or production and the locations where such power may be carried for distribution, and sell, lease and dispose of same.

(2) This section does not authorize a port to enter into the business of supplying electric energy or services, or other power service, to municipalities or to the public, or for any purpose other than the construction or operation of docks, terminals, elevators or other shipping facilities, or in any of the work ports are authorized by law to engage in.

(3) Notwithstanding subsections (1) and (2) of this section, a port may construct, acquire, own or operate, by itself or with other public or private entities, electrical generating plants, electric distribution facilities and related fuel supply and steam generation and distribution facilities. However, the electric output of such plants or systems shall not be sold or delivered, directly or indirectly, to any person or other entity located within this state other than:

(a) An electric utility as defined in ORS 758.505 (Definitions for ORS 758.505 to 758.555) ; or

(b) The Bonneville Power Administration.

(4) The related fuel supply facilities of a port shall be constructed and operated for the sole purpose of furnishing fuel to the generating plants or systems owned by the port by itself or with other public or private entities.

(5) Except as provided in subsection (6) of this section, natural gas used to fuel the generation of electricity or energy by any port as described in subsection (3) of this section shall be purchased from or transported by an entity, if any, that is a public utility as defined in ORS 757.005 (Definition of public utility) and approved by the Public Utility Commission under ORS 758.400 (Definitions for ORS 758.015 and 758.400 to 758.475) to 758.475 (Fees) to distribute natural gas in the service territory in which the port is located.

(6) The rate charged a port by the public utility shall be the rate found to be reasonable by the Public Utility Commission under ORS 757.230 (Control of commission over classification of services and forms of schedules) . When reviewing the rate, the Public Utility Commission shall also determine the cost of alternatives to natural gas service from the public utility. For the purposes of this subsection, the cost of alternatives to natural gas service from the public utility is the cost incurred by a person other than a port without consideration of governmental entitlements that are available to a port but not to private persons. If the rate acceptable to the public utility and found to be reasonable by the Public Utility Commission is greater than such cost of alternatives, the port may pursue other alternatives for natural gas service. [1971 c.728 §25 (enacted in lieu of 777.130); 1985 c.773 §4; 1991 c.253 §1]

Source: Section 777.230 — Port may generate electric power; sale of power limited to utilities and federal agency; use of natural gas as fuel for generating facilities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.215 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.215
778.215 Appointment
Status: in_force

(1) Upon the expiration of the term of a commissioner, a successor shall be appointed by the Governor, subject to confirmation as provided by ORS 171.562 (Procedures for confirmation) and 171.565 (Vote required for confirmation) . Except as provided in ORS 778.220 (Removal) and 778.235 (Causes of vacancies) , appointees, when confirmed, shall hold office for a term of four years and until their respective successors have been appointed, confirmed and qualified.

(2) If a vacancy occurs by death, resignation or disqualification of a commissioner, the vacancy shall be filled by appointment by the Governor for the unexpired term subject to confirmation as provided by subsection (1) of this section. [Amended by 1969 c.695 §15; 1971 c.728 §127]

Source: Section 778.215 — Appointment; confirmation; vacancies , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.105 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.105
777.105 Bay, river and harbor improvement
Status: in_force

A port may improve bays, rivers and harbors within its limits and between its limits and the sea for the width and length and to the depth the port considers necessary or convenient for the use of shipping and as the means at its disposal will allow. It may construct the canals, basins and waterways necessary or convenient for the use of shipping or the extension of the commerce of the port. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §12]

Source: Section 777.105 — Bay, river and harbor improvement , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.320 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.320
783.320 Injuries to persons or property ashore
Status: in_force

The owner or owners of any boat or vessel which, when navigating the waters of this state or when within the waters of this state, has, through the negligence or misconduct of the owner, agent, master, pilot or employees thereon, caused injury to persons or property upon shore or upon wharves, warehouses, bridges or other structures affixed or contiguous to such shore, wharves, warehouses, bridges or other structures, shall be liable for all damages resulting to such person or to the owners of such property by reason thereof. The persons so injured may recover the same in an action at law in the circuit court of any county within which the boat or vessel may be found.

Source: Section 783.320 — Injuries to persons or property ashore; liability in damages; venue , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.108 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.108
777.108 Agreements between two or more ports
Status: in_force

Two or more ports may enter agreements, to exercise jointly all powers granted to each of the agreeing ports individually. In the exercise of such powers ports may acquire jointly all lands, rights in real property, leases or easements necessary for their purposes. However, ports so acting jointly shall not acquire real property or rights in any other port without the consent of such port. [1961 c.367 §2; 1971 c.728 §13]

Source: Section 777.108 — Agreements between two or more ports , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.990 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.990
783.990 Penalties
Status: in_force

(1) Violation of ORS 783.510 (Enticement of seamen to desert or leave ship) , 783.520 (Harboring and secretion of seamen) or 783.610 (Offenses relating to buoys and beacons) is a Class B misdemeanor.

(2) Violation of ORS 783.530 (Receipt of compensation from seaman for furnishing employment) , 783.550 (Unauthorized boarding of nonpassenger vessel) or 783.580 (Tugboat operator refusing to tow) is a Class C misdemeanor.

(3) Violation of ORS 783.560 (Arrest of officers and seamen for debt prohibited) by any officer is a Class D violation.

(4) Violation of ORS 783.590 (Lowering of smokestacks of vessels navigating upper Willamette) and injury or damage of any bridge across the Willamette River for want of the appliances described in ORS 783.590 (Lowering of smokestacks of vessels navigating upper Willamette) is a Class A violation.

(5) Violation of ORS 783.620 (Discharge of ballast in navigable waters) is a Class A misdemeanor. [Amended by 1953 c.113 §2; 1997 c.249 §224; 1999 c.1051 §227; 2011 c.597 §304]

Source: Section 783.990 — Penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.085 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.085
778.085 Control over port waters and wharf lines
Status: in_force

(1) To the full extent the State of Oregon might exercise control, or grant to the Port of Portland the right to exercise control, the port has full control of the rivers, harbors and waterways within its boundaries and between its boundaries and the sea.

(2) The port may make, change or abolish wharf lines of, in and for the rivers, harbors and waterways within its boundaries.

(3) As it considers convenient, requisite or necessary, or in the best interests of the maritime shipping or commercial interests of the port, the board may by ordinance make, modify or abolish regulations:

(a) For the use or navigation of the rivers, harbors and waterways mentioned in subsection (1) of this section; or

(b) For the placing of obstructions therein, or the removal of obstructions therefrom.

(4) The port may enforce the regulations by penalties or seek other appropriate remedies as the port considers necessary. Penalties are recoverable in the name of the port in any court of this state.

(5) This section does not authorize the port to cause the removal of bridges or other obstructions existing under a grant by this state. This section does not authorize the port to exclude cities other than the City of Portland from free access to the channel of either the Willamette or Columbia Rivers or the Oregon and the Columbia Sloughs, or the free use of the rivers or sloughs for navigation. [Amended by 1963 c.145 §2; 1971 c.728 §117; 2011 c.597 §301]

Source: Section 778.085 — Control over port waters and wharf lines; adoption and enforcement of navigational rules; authority to establish penalties; limitation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.105 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.105
776.105 Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots
Status: in_force

(1) The Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots is established within the Public Utility Commission of Oregon, and shall consist of nine members appointed by the Governor for terms of four years. The appointments of members of the board are subject to confirmation by the Senate in the manner prescribed in ORS 171.562 (Procedures for confirmation) and 171.565 (Vote required for confirmation) .

(2) Three members of the board shall be public members, one of whom shall act as chairperson of the board. The public members of the board may not:

(a) During the preceding five years or during their terms of office, have any interest in the ownership, operation or management of any tugs, cargo or passenger vessels or in the carriage of freight or passengers by vessel;

(b) During the preceding five years or during their terms of office, have any interest in any association or organization represented under subsection (4) of this section or principally comprised of persons engaged in commercial pursuits in the maritime industry as described in paragraph (a) of this subsection in any capacity; or

(c) Hold or have held a maritime pilot license issued by any state or federal authority.

(3) Three members shall be licensees under this chapter. One member shall be a Columbia River bar licensee, one member shall be a Columbia River licensee and one member shall be a Coos Bay or Yaquina Bay licensee. A licensee member shall:

(a) Have been licensed for more than three years under this chapter;

(b) Be actively engaged in piloting; and

(c) Be a resident of this state.

(4) Except as provided in subsection (5) of this section, three members of the board shall, for at least three years immediately preceding their appointment, have been and during their terms of office be engaged in the activities of a person, as defined in ORS 174.100 (Definitions) , that operates or represents commercial oceangoing vessels.

(5) The Governor may appoint a past or present employee or commissioner of a port to serve on the board in lieu of one of the operators or representatives of a commercial oceangoing vessel under subsection (4) of this section.

(6) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The majority of members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of all business if at least one member of each group, as described in subsections (2), (3) and (4) of this section, is present.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this subsection, when the board fixes pilotage fees under ORS 776.115 (Powers and duties of board) (5) a quorum shall consist of seven members.

(c) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this subsection, for purposes of ORS 192.610 (Definitions for ORS 192.610 to 192.705) to 192.705 (Filing written grievance) a quorum shall consist of five members.

(7) The commission may appoint a member of the commission, or a designee, as a nonvoting, ex officio member of the board.

(8) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The commission is responsible for the administrative oversight of the board. The responsibilities of the commission include, but are not limited to:

(A) Budgeting;

(B) Financial management;

(C) Record keeping;

(D) Staffing;

(E) Purchasing and contracting;

(F) Collecting fees; and

(G) Compliance with rulemaking procedures set forth in ORS chapter 183.

(b) In consultation with the board, the commission shall:

(A) Fix the qualifications of and appoint an executive director and an administrative officer for the board; and

(B) Subject to the State Personnel Relations Law, fix the compensation of the executive director and the administrative officer. [1957 c.448 §3; 1963 c.580 §93; 1967 c.401 §8; 1969 c.314 §102; 1971 c.753 §41; 1981 c.88 §3; 1987 c.414 §89; 1987 c.775 §4; 1993 c.741 §111; 1993 c.796 §3; 2005 c.508 §1; 2007 c.768 §63; 2013 c.539 §1]

Source: Section 776.105 — Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots; term; qualifications; appointment; quorum , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.937 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.937
777.937 Board to report to Legislative Assembly
Status: in_force

The board shall report to the Legislative Assembly of this state, biennially, everything done or performed by the board under this chapter. [1987 c.565 §11]

Source: Section 777.937 — Board to report to Legislative Assembly , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.010 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.010
778.010 District known as Port of Portland
Status: in_force

The Portland metropolitan area is a separate district, to be known as the Port of Portland, and as such shall have perpetual succession, and by that name shall exercise and carry out all the powers and objects conferred on it by law. The port may sue and be sued, plead and be impleaded in all actions, suits or proceedings brought by or against it; provided, however, that the bonded or other indebtedness of the port that was chargeable to or a lien upon the property within the limits of the port:

(1) Prior to June 30, 1963, shall not be chargeable to or a lien upon all of that property which lies east of the east boundary line of range two east of the Willamette Meridian in Multnomah County; or

(2) Prior to June 30, 1973, shall not be chargeable to or a lien upon all that property lying within the boundaries of Clackamas and Washington Counties. [Amended by 1963 c.124 §1; 1973 c.178 §2; 2003 c.802 §152]

Source: Section 778.010 — District known as Port of Portland; boundaries; capacity to sue , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.045 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.045
778.045 Amount of general obligation bonds issued in one year limited
Status: in_force

The total amount of general obligation bonds issued by the Port of Portland in any calendar year, except for refunding bonds or bonds issued to provide funds to meet obligations assumed pursuant to ORS 778.020 (Acquisition of City of Portland property by port) , shall not exceed $3 million unless a greater amount is approved by the electors of the port at an election at which such question is submitted. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §110; 1973 c.178 §7; 1997 c.461 §3]

Source: Section 778.045 — Amount of general obligation bonds issued in one year limited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.287 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.287
777.287 Agreements with federal agencies
Status: in_force

The Oregon sponsors are each hereby authorized to enter into agreements with agencies of the United States for the channel deepening project and, notwithstanding any other provision of law, may each agree to be bound by any requirement imposed by an Act of the United States Congress as a condition of federal participation in the channel deepening project. [1997 c.644 §5]

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

Source: Section 777.287 — Agreements with federal agencies , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.110 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.110
777.110 Contracts with federal government
Status: in_force

A port may:

(1) Contract with the federal government to do all or part of the work of making or maintaining, or both, a depth of water in the bays, harbors or rivers as determined by the federal government; and

(2) Receive therefor compensation as agreed between the federal government and the port. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §14]

Source: Section 777.110 — Contracts with federal government , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.255 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.255
778.255 Enactment of port ordinances
Status: in_force

(1) The board may legislate with respect to the internal affairs of the Port of Portland by the adoption of ordinances. Every ordinance enacted by the board shall be preceded by an enacting clause substantially as follows: “Be It Enacted by The Port of Portland.”

(2) Except as otherwise provided by this section, in order to be effective, all ordinances require the affirmative vote of a majority of the commissioners of the port at a meeting of the board duly and regularly held.

(3) Ordinances making appropriations, the annual tax levy and emergency ordinances take effect immediately upon passage. All other ordinances are subject to the referendum and shall become effective 30 days after enacted, unless a later date is fixed therein, in which event they shall take effect at a later date, subject to the referendum. Except for ordinances making appropriations and the annual tax levy, when an ordinance is enacted, a notice containing a concise summary of the ordinance and the location within the port where a copy of the complete ordinance may be obtained without charge shall, within five days after passage of the ordinance, be published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation within the port.

(4) Ordinances making appropriations and the annual tax levy and emergency ordinances shall be passed by an aye and nay vote. Emergency ordinances shall contain the statement that an emergency exists and specify with distinctness the facts and reasons constituting the emergency. The unanimous vote of all the commissioners present, and of not less than seven commissioners, is required to pass an emergency ordinance.

(5) In case a referendum petition is filed against an ordinance or part thereof, the operation of the ordinance or part thereof shall be suspended pending the outcome of the referendum election. [Amended by 1971 c.170 §1; 1971 c.728 §134]

Source: Section 778.255 — Enactment of port ordinances; effective date; passage; effect of referendum , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.347 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.347
777.347 Consent of Department of State Lands for state lands
Status: in_force

The Department of State Lands is authorized to consent to annexation with respect to any land owned by the State of Oregon, under the jurisdiction of the department, which is located in the territory proposed to be annexed. [1963 c.268 §12; 1971 c.727 §189]

Source: Section 777.347 — Consent of Department of State Lands for state lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.992 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.992
783.992 Civil penalties
Status: in_force

As specified in ORS 468.140 (Civil penalties for specified violations) , the Director of the Department of Environmental Quality may impose a civil penalty on the owner or operator of a vessel for failure to comply with the requirements of ORS 783.625 (Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640) to 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) . [2001 c.722 §7; 2005 c.62 §6; 2009 c.267 §16]

Source: Section 783.992 — Civil penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.090 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.090
783.090 Discharge of boat or vessel on giving of undertaking
Status: in_force

If the master, owner, agent or consignee, before final judgment in any action commenced in pursuance of ORS 783.030 (Right to proceed against boat or vessel directly) and 783.040 (Complaint) , enters into an undertaking in favor of the plaintiff, with sufficient security, to be approved by the judge or clerk of the court in which the action is pending, conditioned to satisfy the amount which is adjudged due and owing to the plaintiff on determination of the action, together with all costs accruing, such boat or vessel, with its tackle, apparel and furniture, shall be discharged from further detention by the sheriff.

Source: Section 783.090 — Discharge of boat or vessel on giving of undertaking , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.310 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.310
783.310 Destruction or injury of property by watercraft
Status: in_force

If any person in control of any watercraft conducts or navigates the watercraft intentionally or negligently so as to destroy or injure the property of another, the person and the person’s employer each shall be liable in damages for the property so injured or destroyed, and the damages shall be a lien on the watercraft. [Amended by 2005 c.22 §512]

Source: Section 783.310 — Destruction or injury of property by watercraft; liability of tortfeasor and employer; lien on vessel , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.560 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.560
777.560 Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds
Status: in_force

(1) For the purpose of carrying into effect any of the powers granted to ports, a port may issue and sell revenue bonds in accordance with ORS 777.560 (Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds) to 777.590 (Authority to issue and sell revenue bonds) without the necessity of obtaining the prior approval of the electors of the port. Proceeds from the sale of revenue bonds may be used by the port in its governmental capacity or loaned to private parties. The proceeds may be used to cover the costs incurred in issuing the bonds, and preliminary work incident to carrying out such purposes and powers, including but not limited to planning, engineering, inspection, accounting, fiscal, legal and trustee expenses, the cost of issuance of bonds, engraving, printing, advertising and other similar expenses, and to pay interest on the outstanding bonds issued for any project during the period of actual construction and for six months after the completion thereof. Revenue bonds shall not be a general obligation of the port nor a charge upon the tax revenues of the port, nor a charge upon any other revenues or property of the port not specifically pledged thereto.

(2) In addition to the powers granted by subsection (1) of this section, a port may authorize and issue revenue bonds under ORS 287A.150 (Authority of public body to issue revenue bonds) . [1955 c.423 §2; 1959 c.337 §1; 1971 c.728 §86; 1993 c.97 §29; 2007 c.783 §225]

Source: Section 777.560 — Ports may issue and sell revenue bonds; use of proceeds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.515 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.515
777.515 Payment of warrants
Status: in_force

(1) The treasurer of a port, or the treasurer of the county who is the legal custodian of funds belonging to or credited to a port, shall pay the warrants of the port when presented, if the treasurer has money in custody for the purpose of paying the obligation for which the warrant was given. The treasurer shall write on the face of the warrant the date of redemption and the treasurer’s signature.

(2) If there are no funds in the custody of the port treasurer to pay the warrant when presented, the port treasurer shall indorse thereon “Not Paid for Want of Funds” and the date of presentment over the signature of the port treasurer. The warrant shall draw interest at the legal rate from the date of such indorsement. Thereafter, the county treasurer, upon presentment of the warrant, shall pay upon the warrant any funds which may come into the county treasurer’s custody for the purpose of paying the obligation for which the warrant was issued and shall, over the signature of the county treasurer, indorse the amount of the payment upon the warrant with the date of the payment.

(3) However, a warrant drawn in payment of the principal or face amount of a port bond shall in no event draw interest in excess of the rate of interest expressed upon the face of the port bond, and the rate of such interest shall appear upon the face of the warrant. Interest on a warrant shall cease from the date of notice by publication in some newspaper printed or circulated in the county. Notice shall be given by the port treasurer authorized to redeem the warrant, stating that there are funds to redeem outstanding warrants. The treasurer shall give notice when the treasurer has $10,000 belonging to the fund. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §35]

Source: Section 777.515 — Payment of warrants; interest on warrants , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.925 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.925
777.925 Appointment of port commissioners
Status: in_force

(1) Upon the expiration of the term of a commissioner, a successor shall be appointed by the Governor, subject to confirmation as provided by ORS 171.562 (Procedures for confirmation) and 171.565 (Vote required for confirmation) . Except as provided in ORS 777.927 (Removal of port commissioner for malfeasance) and 777.930 (Removal of port commissioner for lack of attendance) , appointees, when confirmed, shall hold office for a term of four years and until their respective successors have been appointed, confirmed and qualified.

(2) If a vacancy occurs by death, resignation or disqualification of a commissioner, the vacancy shall be filled by appointment by the Governor for the unexpired term subject to confirmation as provided by subsection (1) of this section. [1987 c.565 §6]

Source: Section 777.925 — Appointment of port commissioners; term; vacancies , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.725 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.725
777.725 Borrowing money to pay bonus
Status: in_force

(1) For the purpose of ORS 777.705 (Definitions for ORS 777.705 to 777.725) to 777.725 (Borrowing money to pay bonus) and 777.915 (Definitions for ORS 777.915 to 777.953) to 777.953 (Annexation) , a port may borrow money and sell and dispose of bonds. The bonds shall not, singly or in the aggregate, with previous debts and liabilities incurred and outstanding for such purposes, exceed one-fourth of one percent (0.0025) of the real market value of all taxable property within the port. The bonds shall be issued from time to time as the board may determine, and shall be of such denominations, run for such period of years and for such rate of interest as the board determines.

(2) Bonds shall not be issued unless authorized by the majority of the electors voting upon the question at an election called for that purpose.

(3) Every issue of bonds shall be in serial form so as to mature in numerical order in equal installments annually on and after five years from date. The bonds shall not bear interest exceeding in any event a net effective rate of seven percent per annum. The bonds shall be signed on behalf of the port by its president and countersigned by its secretary. The bonds shall be so conditioned that the port shall agree, in consideration of the premises, to pay at a place therein named to the bearer or registered holder thereof the sum named therein at the maturity thereof in lawful money of the United States, with interest thereon in like lawful money at the rate per annum named therein, payable semiannually in accordance with the tenor and terms of interest coupons thereto attached.

(4) The bonds shall be known as water transportation bonds of the Port of (insert name of port), County of (insert name of county), State of Oregon, as the case may be.

(5) The bonds shall be sold for cash to the highest responsible bidder, upon sealed bids, after advertising; but the board may reject any and all bids tendered and proceed to readvertise when bids are not satisfactory. [Amended by 1967 c.293 §35; 1971 c.728 §101; 1991 c.459 §441]

Source: Section 777.725 — Borrowing money to pay bonus; bond issues, amount, terms, interest, signature, approval by electors, name of bonds, sale , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.923 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.923
777.923 Qualifications of port commissioners
Status: in_force

(1) The board shall be composed of electors registered in the port.

(2) A person is eligible for appointment as a commissioner of the port 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 port. [1987 c.565 §5]

Source: Section 777.923 — Qualifications of port commissioners , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.040 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.040
783.040 Complaint
Status: in_force

Any person wishing to commence an action against a boat or vessel shall file the complaint against such boat or vessel by name with the clerk of the circuit court of the county in which the boat or vessel may lie or be. The complaint shall set forth the plaintiff’s demand in all its particulars, and on whose account the same accrued, and shall be verified by the plaintiff or some credible person for the plaintiff.

Source: Section 783.040 — Complaint; jurisdiction and venue , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.945 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.945
777.945 Certain uses of bond proceeds prohibited in absence of elector approval
Status: in_force

Bonds shall not be issued by the port 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. [1987 c.565 §14]

Source: Section 777.945 — Certain uses of bond proceeds prohibited in absence of elector approval , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.125 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.125
778.125 Port assistance to other governmental units within port boundaries
Status: in_force

Consistent with the purposes, functions and powers granted to it by law, the Port of Portland may provide research or technical assistance for the planning, promotion or implementation of commercial, industrial or economic development projects upon request by any city, county or municipal corporation within the port. [1977 c.45 §2]

Source: Section 778.125 — Port assistance to other governmental units within port boundaries , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.130 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.130
783.130 Bill of sale of boat or vessel
Status: in_force

When any boat or vessel is sold in pursuance of ORS 783.110 (Order for sale on judgment) to 783.160 (Sale of appurtenances for fractional share of boat or vessel) , the officer making the sale shall execute to the purchaser a bill of sale therefor, and such boat or vessel shall, in the hands of the purchaser and the purchaser’s assigns, be free and discharged from all previous liens and claims under this title.

Source: Section 783.130 — Bill of sale of boat or vessel; effect of previous liens , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.510 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.510
783.510 Enticement of seamen to desert or leave ship
Status: in_force

No person shall entice, persuade or by any means attempt to persuade, any seaman to desert from, or without permission of the officer then in command thereof to leave or depart therefrom, either temporarily or otherwise, any ship or steamer or other vessel while such ship, steamer or other vessel is within the waters under the jurisdiction of this state or within the waters of the concurrent jurisdiction of this state and Washington.

Source: Section 783.510 — Enticement of seamen to desert or leave ship , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.110 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.110
783.110 Order for sale on judgment
Status: in_force

If judgment is rendered against any boat or vessel in favor of the plaintiff, the court shall make an order directed to the sheriff, commanding the sheriff to sell the boat or vessel, together with its tackle, apparel and furniture, to satisfy the judgment and costs which may have accrued in the cause, which order shall be executed and returned in the same manner as other executions.

Source: Section 783.110 — Order for sale on judgment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.060 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.060
778.060 Expenditure of bond sale funds for operating expenses limited
Status: in_force

The board shall not expend, within any one calendar year, from the funds derived from the sale of bonds, in excess of $500,000 to meet the operating expenses of the Port of Portland. As used in this section “operating expenses” means the maintenance of plant, structures and equipment and such dredging as may be required to preserve or restore at or to its artificial depth a channel previously excavated by the port. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §113]

Source: Section 778.060 — Expenditure of bond sale funds for operating expenses limited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.140 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.140
777.140 Board meetings
Status: in_force

(1) A board shall meet at a place within the port as it may from time to time determine. A board shall hold at least one regular meeting in each month on a day to be fixed by it, and may hold special meetings as provided by its rules.

(2) A board shall choose from its number a president, vice president, treasurer and secretary, who shall hold their offices until the next election of officers and who shall have the powers and perform the duties usual in such cases. Annual reports shall be made by the president, vice president, treasurer and secretary and filed with the board.

(3) All proceedings of a board shall be entered in the records of the board. All books, maps, plans, documents, vouchers, reports and other papers and records pertaining to the business of the port shall be public records. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §32]

Source: Section 777.140 — Board meetings; board officers; rules; public records , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.225 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.225
778.225 Meetings
Status: in_force

(1) The board shall hold at least one regular meeting in each month on a day to be fixed by it, and may hold special meetings as provided by the rules of the board. At all regular and special meetings a majority of the commissioners then members of the board constitutes a quorum.

(2) The board may create an executive committee of which every commissioner shall be a member and of which a number less than a majority, as the board may determine, may constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. The committee may hold its meetings under such rules as the board may prescribe. However, the executive committee has no power except as a committee and only as expressly conferred upon it by the rules of the board. In no event shall the committee exercise the general powers of the board. The board has no power to appoint or delegate any part of its power or authority to any committee except the executive committee. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §129]

Source: Section 778.225 — Meetings; rules; quorum; executive committee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.475 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.475
777.475 Remedies of holders of refunding bonds on default
Status: in_force

If there is a default in payment of principal or interest of bonds issued pursuant to ORS 777.455 (Authority to issue refunding bonds for specified purposes) , the holders thereof shall be reinvested with and have all the remedies they would have had if they were holding obligations refunded by the issuance of such bonds. [Amended by 1971 c.728 §82]

Source: Section 777.475 — Remedies of holders of refunding bonds on default , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.150 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.150
777.150 Port employees
Status: in_force

A port may employ engineers, superintendents, mechanics, clerks or other persons as it may find requisite, necessary or convenient and fix their rates of compensation. [Amended by 1967 c.412 §1; 1971 c.403 §16; 1971 c.728 §36]

Source: Section 777.150 — Port employees; compensation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.120 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.120
777.120 Port’s authority over harbors, wharf lines and navigation
Status: in_force

(1) To the full extent the State of Oregon might exercise control or grant to ports the right to exercise control, a port has full control of all bays, rivers and harbors within its limits, and between its limits and the sea. As convenient, requisite or necessary or in the best interests of the maritime shipping and commercial interests of the port, a port may, within its limits:

(a) Make, change or abolish wharf lines in bays, rivers and harbors.

(b) By ordinance make, modify or abolish regulations for the use of navigation, or for the placing of obstructions in or the removal of obstructions from bays, rivers and harbors.

(2) A port shall have the authority to engage in the control and prevention of river and stream bank erosion, and the prevention of damage from floodwater and sediment, and to make, establish, change, modify or abolish such rules and regulations to preserve natural resources and prevent estuary and stream pollution within the boundaries of the district. [Amended by 1971 c.268 §20; 1971 c.691 §2; 1971 c.728 §140]

Source: Section 777.120 — Port’s authority over harbors, wharf lines and navigation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 778.016 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 778 / Section 778.016
778.016 Best value standards for Port of Portland contracts and space leases
Status: in_force

In awarding contracts and leasing spaces, the Port of Portland may establish best value standards and criteria, taking into account factors that include:

(1) Experience, technical capability and past performance.

(2) The qualifications, compensation and retention policies of bidding contractors and lessees with respect to the staff and subcontractors operating at the port.

(3) Potential local and regional benefit within the port, the surrounding community, the region and the state. [2013 c.689 §3]

Source: Section 778.016 — Best value standards for Port of Portland contracts and space leases , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors778.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.035 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.035
776.035 Findings
Status: in_force

The Legislative Assembly finds that:

(1) In order to implement the policies described and inherent in ORS 196.420 (Policy) , 273.553 (South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve) , 465.205 (Legislative findings) , 466.010 (Purpose) and 468B.015 (Policy) and ORS chapter 274, it is necessary to establish precautionary measures.

(2) Only individuals who have experience and can demonstrate knowledge of currents, tides, soundings, bearings and distances of the shoals, rocks, bars, points of landings, lights and fog signals should direct a large vessel on certain waters of this state. [1991 c.234 §2; 1997 c.16 §2]

Source: Section 776.035 — Findings , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.530 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.530
783.530 Receipt of compensation from seaman for furnishing employment
Status: in_force

No person shall demand or receive, either directly or indirectly, from any seaman or apprentice, or from any person seeking employment as a seaman or apprentice, or from any person on behalf of the seaman or apprentice, any remuneration whatever for providing the seaman or apprentice with employment on board any seagoing vessel.

Source: Section 783.530 — Receipt of compensation from seaman for furnishing employment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 783.638 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 783 / Section 783.638
783.638 Ballast Water Fund
Status: in_force

(1) The Ballast Water Fund is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. Interest earned by the Ballast Water Fund shall be credited to the fund. Moneys in the fund are continuously appropriated to the Department of Environmental Quality to:

(a) Monitor vessels regulated under ORS 783.625 (Definitions for ORS 783.625 to 783.640) to 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) ;

(b) Screen ballast water management information reported to the department under ORS 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) ;

(c) Inspect vessels and collect samples of ballast water pursuant to ORS 783.640 (Reporting of ballast water management) ;

(d) Conduct ballast water management policy development and coordination;

(e) Coordinate with other state agencies, agencies of other states and federal agencies on issues related to ballast water management;

(f) Respond to emergencies regarding aquatic invasive species that may have resulted from the discharge of ballast water; and

(g) Provide outreach and consultation expertise to maritime industry stakeholders regarding:

(A) Best practices related to ballast water management.

(B) Standards and procedures adopted by rule by the Environmental Quality Commission under ORS 783.635 (Discharge of ballast water prohibited) .

(2) The fund established by subsection (1) of this section shall consist of:

(a) Fees collected pursuant to ORS 783.636 (Fees) .

(b) Late charges collected pursuant to ORS 783.637 (Late charges) . [2011 c.321 §5]

Source: Section 783.638 — Ballast Water Fund; sources; uses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors783.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.505 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.505
777.505 Delivery of bonds to purchaser
Status: in_force

(1) Refunding bonds, upon payment therefor in cash, may be delivered to the purchaser thereof at any time after sale date, but not later than the date as of which the refunded bonds have been called for payment. The bonds shall be delivered at the place in the State of Oregon designated by the board in the notice of sale of the bonds.

(2) Proceeds of sale of the bonds equal to the total par value of the bonds refunded shall be deposited at the fiscal agency mentioned in ORS 777.460 (Refunding bonds) in conformity with the laws relating to deposits of funds with the fiscal agency or, at the option of the issuing port, pursuant to ORS 295.001 (Definitions for ORS 295.001 to 295.108) to 295.108 (State Treasurer rules) , in a special trust account to be used solely for the payment of the principal of the outstanding refunding bonds and for no other purpose.

(3) The outstanding refunded bonds shall be redeemed and retired as soon as possible after the date of sale of the refunding bonds issued in lieu thereof, but in no case shall such refunding bonds be invalidated by reason of the failure of the port to redeem or retire the refunded bonds. [Amended by 1967 c.451 §29; 1971 c.728 §80]

Source: Section 777.505 — Delivery of bonds to purchaser; deposit of sale proceeds; redemption and retirement of refunded bonds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.800 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.800
776.800 Collection of fee
Status: in_force

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, each licensee under this chapter shall collect a board operations fee from each vessel using the services of a licensee. The purpose of the fee is to allow the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots to carry out its duties, functions and powers under this chapter. The fee may not exceed the amount described in ORS 776.810 (Maximum amount of fee) .

(2) The fee described in subsection (1) of this section shall be collected in the following manner:

(a) For vessels entering or leaving the Columbia River, licensees for the Columbia River bar pilotage ground shall collect the fee from inbound vessels and licensees for the Columbia and Willamette River pilotage ground shall collect the fee from outbound vessels.

(b) For vessels entering or leaving Coos Bay or Yaquina Bay, licensees for the Coos Bay or Yaquina Bay pilotage ground shall collect the fee from inbound and outbound vessels.

(3) The board shall prescribe the procedures for collecting and remitting the fee imposed under this section.

(4) Each quarter the board shall review the amount of the fee. If the board determines that the fee should be adjusted, then the board may adjust the fee subject to prior approval of the Oregon Department of Administrative Services. [2013 c.539 §3; 2023 c.602 §32]

Source: Section 776.800 — Collection of fee; remittance , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 777.435 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 777 / Section 777.435
777.435 Levy, assessment and collection of taxes
Status: in_force

(1) Taxes authorized by ORS 777.430 (Taxing powers of ports) shall be levied in each year and returned to the county officer 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 a port in the same manner as city taxes are extended.

(2) All taxes levied by a port become 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 §74]

Source: Section 777.435 — Levy, assessment and collection of taxes , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors777.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 776.540 — OR Code / Title 58 / Chapter 776 / Section 776.540
776.540 Security required of licensees and trainees
Status: in_force

(1) Each licensee and trainee shall procure and furnish to the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots a security in the sum of $250 as a surety bond or an irrevocable letter of credit, in a form approved by the board and underwritten by a surety company authorized to engage in business in the State of Oregon or issued by an insured institution, as defined in ORS 706.008 (Additional definitions for Bank Act) , or as a cash deposit in a form approved by the board. The cash deposit, letter of credit or bond shall be conditioned so as to pay the sum to any person, firm, corporation or other legal entity who or which shall suffer any loss or damage by reason of any negligent act or omission of the licensee or trainee which relates, directly or indirectly, to pilotage of the vessel. No licensee or trainee shall be liable for any such act or omission beyond the amount of the security. However, this limitation of liability shall not apply:

(a) To willful misconduct on the part of the licensee or trainee;

(b) To the extent to which insurance is procured pursuant to the option granted by ORS 776.510 (Declaration of legislative intent relating to liability of licensees, trainees and organizations) and 776.520 (Tariffs limiting liability of licensees, trainees or organizations) ; or

(c) 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.

(2) When any suit or action is brought in any court against a licensee or trainee for any such act or omission in respect of which liability is limited as provided by this section and other claims are made or anticipated in respect of the same act or omission, upon payment by the licensee or trainee of the amount of the security into the court in which such suit or action is brought, the court shall distribute that amount rateably among the several claimants and shall dismiss the proceedings as to the licensee or trainee. [1983 c.330 §7; 1985 c.29 §1; 1991 c.331 §138; 1993 c.796 §20; 1997 c.631 §553]

Source: Section 776.540 — Security required of licensees and trainees; conditions of bond; limitation of liability , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors776.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).