Oregon Work Zone Laws

How Oregon handles work zones

Oregon's work zone is live whether or not a crew is out (ORS 811.230), so the posted orange limit binds from the first sign. Break it and the presumptive fine is a flat $325 for a typical Class C speed, about double the normal $165, and $525 for a bigger overage (ORS 153.020). Refusing a flagger is its own charge (ORS 811.232). The statewide handheld ban covers the zone, and ODOT is authorized to run work-zone photo radar (ORS 810.442).

Speed, fines, phone, and the flagger

• Speed rule: The posted orange limit is the law from the first warning sign, and Oregon counts the zone whether or not workers are on site (ORS 811.230). Slow down as soon as you see the signs, not just where you spot a crew.
• Fine multiplier: $325 flat presumptive fine for a typical work-zone speeding ticket (Class C), about double the normal $165; a bigger overage jumps to $525 (Class B) (ORS 153.020). Oregon sets a fixed elevated fine rather than a literal multiplier, and it applies while the zone is signed.
• Phone in a work zone: Restricted — put it down
• Flagger authority: Obey the flagger. Refusing to obey a flagger's signal at a work zone is its own offense (ORS 811.232), stacked on top of any elevated speed fine.
• Base fine: $325 presumptive fine for a standard work-zone speed violation (Class C), rising to $525 for a larger overage (Class B) (ORS 153.020), plus a courthouse surcharge.

More for Oregon