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Two adjustments to Hillsboro’s public camping rules are now in effect. In summary:  

• City-owned properties where overnight camping may occur will now be closed for public use between 7 am and 7 pm to allow the sites to be fully cleaned during the day. This includes Block 67 in Downtown Hillsboro and the property in Northeast Hillsboro near the City’s Public Works building.
  
  
• The sidewalk access rule will be updated to clarify that the three feet of space that must remain open for travel does not include the curb. This is in accordance with an update to the Americans with Disabilities Act.

See the highlighted First Amendment to the Manager’s Administrative Rules for the detailed updates. 
(For accessibility assistance with the highlighted document, please call 503-681-6271.)

In accordance with Ordinance 6454, the City of Hillsboro may make changes to the Manager’s Administrative Rules after providing at least 10 business days for public comment. 

Public Comment

Community members were invited to provide public comment through the City’s Engage Hillsboro platform from January 15 to January 24, 2024. The opportunity was shared in English and Spanish on the City of Hillsboro website, in email newsletters, and on social media.

Eighteen total comments were received and reviewed by City of Hillsboro staff and leadership. Many comments seemed to address the Camping Rules as a whole rather than the most recent updates.

Top areas of concern included: 

• Sidewalk access 
• Debris & Sanitation
• Police Resources

We also heard support for creating more shelter resources in Hillsboro and concern about the time limitations for overnight camping on public property. The City and community partners reopened the Safe Rest Pods on SW 17th Avenue in December and our Outdoor Cleanup Project is still underway as we continue to work toward building a Year-Round Shelter at the SW 17th Avenue property near Winco.

Education & Enforcement

The Hillsboro Police Department’s Crisis Intervention Team, Bicycle Team, and Code Compliance Team connect face-to-face with community members to address livability issues and enforce laws, including those related to camping. In addition: 

• Signage will be placed at City-owned properties where overnight may occur to indicate these sites are closed for daytime use.
  
  
• The camping rules website, print handouts, and flyers are being updated to reflect the sidewalk access update.

For the Hillsboro Police Department, City Manager's Office, and community partners, the current focus is to provide education and services to community members living unsheltered rather than issue penalties.

Shelters & Services

• Community members may request shelter and housing resources by contacting Community Connect at 503-640-3263 or CommunityConnect@CAOWash.org. 
  
  
• Day centers offer shelter and services during some of the daytime hours when camping on public property is not allowed. Find day center locations in Hillsboro on our interactive Public Camping Map or visit Washington County’s website to learn more.

Learn More

• Visit our Camping Rules webpage.
  
  
• Visit the interactive public camping map or download and print the Public Camping Map PDF.
  
  
• Learn how private property owners may register with the City to allow limited camping. 
  
  
• Read the Camping Rules Frequently Asked Questions.
  
  
• Read about the City’s Homelessness Initiatives.
  
  
• Get updates on Hillsboro’s Year-Round Shelter Project. 
  
  
• Learn about the Safe Rest Pods on SW 17th Avenue.