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Lower Willamette River Rules for Boat Operation

There are special laws for operating your boat in the Lower Willamette River (from the Hawthorne Bridge to Willamette Falls). Certain activities are not allowed, and others must keep specific distances from structures. See the infographics below for details.





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Resources

Lower Willamette River Rulemaking History

Interactive Boat Oregon Map with data layer for local area rules

Video -Rules for Motorboat Operations from the Hawthorne Bridge Upstream to Willamette Falls

Newberg Pool Congestion Zone Rules (RM 55 at the confluence of the Yamhill River to RM 26.6 at Willamette Falls)

Towed Watersports Education Program

Lower Willamette River Rack Card

Locations with Rules/Education Signage

Signs will vary by location and are translated into several languages.

  • Cathedral Park
  • Swan Island Boat Ramp
  • Willamette Park
  • Sellwood Temporary Tie-up Dock
  • Milwaukie Bay Park
  • Tryon Cove Temporary Tie-up Dock
  • Foothills Temporary Tie-up Dock
  • Roehr City Park
  • George Rogers Park
  • Cedaroak Boat Ramp
  • Meldrum Bar Boat Ramp
  • Clackamette Park
  • Jon Storm Temporary Tie-up Dock
  • Sportcraft Landing Boat Ramp

The pass-through zone is seasonal, from May 1 - September 30 each year, while the other rules for boat operations in Multnomah and Clackamas Counties are year-round.

Failure to adhere to the rules is a Class B violation with a $265 fine.