Portland’s prohibition on releasing chemical substances at detention facilities remains in effect

On March 25, a three-judge panel of the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit issued a temporary administrative stay on a U.S. District Court ruling restricting the use of tear gas and other chemical munitions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

While that temporary administrative stay is in place, the City of Portland's code remains in effect. The code prohibits the owner of private property where a detention facility is located from releasing - or allowing - chemical substances that impact safety and enjoyment in the public right-of-way or adjacent property.

A temporary administrative ruleimplementing the provisions of this code provides an enforcement framework, including a citation process, fine schedule, service requirements, and appeal procedures.

How to Report Violations

Anyone who believes that prohibited chemical substances are released in violation of City code is encouraged to report the violation in one of the following ways.

• Submit a report through the City of Portland's online form. (2-5 minutes)
• To confidentially report with Portland Permitting & Development:
  • Call and leave a message at 503-823-CODE (2633) or
  • Email [email protected]

To initiate a formal investigation into federal officers, file a complaintwith the DHS Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties or consult an attorney.