The short answer is yes, you may still turn right on red in Oregon, but the 2026 amendments impose extra conditions that many drivers overlook. Effective July 1 2026 the state added mandatory “stop‑and‑yield” verification for pedestrians and cyclists, and it introduced a new “no‑turn‑on‑red” signage classification that overrides the default rule on any intersection where the sign is present.
Background of Oregon’s Right‑Turn‑on‑Red Rule
Oregon has allowed right turns on red since 1996, provided the driver comes to a complete stop and yields to all traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists. ORS 811.035 outlines the basic permission, while ORS 811.020 defines the “yield” requirement. Historically the rule applied unless a sign specifically prohibited the maneuver.
2026 Legislative Changes
The 2026 Traffic Safety Act (House Bill 4721) amended ORS 811.035 in three key ways:
- Enhanced Yield Duty – Drivers must visually confirm that no cyclist is traveling on the adjacent bike lane or sidewalk before proceeding. Failure to do so is considered a “failure to yield” violation.
- New Signage Category – A rectangular “No Turn on Red” sign (Regulation 154‑R) now supersedes the default permission even if a standard “Right Turn on Red Permitted” sign is present.
- Electronic Enforcement – Red‑light cameras equipped with turn‑movement detection can now issue citations for illegal right‑on‑red turns, a capability activated statewide in August 2026.
These updates were driven by a 23 percent increase in cyclist‑involved collisions at red‑light intersections from 2022‑2025, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) safety report.
What Drivers Must Know
- Stop completely before the stop line or crosswalk.
- Look left, right, and forward for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
- Yield to any road user who has the right‑of‑way, including cyclists using the bike lane or sidewalk.
- Check for signage; a “No Turn on Red” sign cancels the default permission, even if a green arrow is not present.
- Be prepared for camera enforcement; a photo of your vehicle’s license plate and direction of travel will be mailed if a violation is recorded.
Enforcement and Penalties
An illegal right‑on‑red turn is classified as a moving violation under ORS 811.135. The base fine is $185, plus a $25 surcharge for court costs. If the violation results in an accident, the driver may also face liability for damages under Oregon’s comparative negligence rules. Repeat offenders within a 12‑month period can be assessed an additional $50 surcharge and may be required to attend a traffic safety course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I turn right on red if a cyclist is in the adjacent bike lane?
No. The 2026 amendment requires you to yield to cyclists in the bike lane. Proceeding without confirming the lane is clear is a violation.
Does a flashing red light affect the right‑turn‑on‑red rule?
Yes. At a flashing red signal you must treat the intersection as a stop sign, and the right‑turn‑on‑red permission still applies only after you have yielded to all traffic and pedestrians.
Are “No Turn on Red” signs mandatory at all intersections now?
No. The new signs are optional but must be installed where local authorities determine a high risk of conflicts, such as near schools or heavy‑bike traffic corridors.
How does the camera system identify a illegal turn?
The system uses motion sensors and video analytics to detect a vehicle entering the intersection from the right‑hand lane during a red phase without a green arrow. It then cross‑references the license plate with registration data to issue a citation.
Will the new rules apply to electric scooters and e‑bikes?
Yes. Oregon classifies electric scooters and e‑bikes as non‑motorized vehicles for right‑of‑way purposes, so drivers must yield to them just as they would to pedestrians or cyclists.