Emergency Vehicle Light Colors in Oregon
Oregon's vehicle lighting regulations are outlined in the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS), particularly Chapter 816. These statutes specify the permissible light colors and configurations for various vehicle types.
Police Vehicles
- Permitted Colors: Blue, red, amber (yellow), and white
- Light Types: Revolving or stationary-type flashing lights
- Visibility Requirement: Must be visible from at least 1,000 feet under normal atmospheric conditions at night
Fire Department Vehicles
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Permitted Colors:
- Red or a combination of red and white
- Forward-facing flashing white light for traffic signal preemption
- Flashing or revolving green light when operating as the command post at emergency incidents
Tow Trucks
- Permitted Colors: Amber or red
Utility and Construction Vehicles
- Permitted Colors: Amber
Pilot Vehicles
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Requirements:
- At least two separate amber lights that flash
- Lights must be as far apart as possible
- Each light must have a lens that is four inches in diameter
- Lights must be visible for at least 500 feet
Medical Examiner Vehicles
- Permitted Colors: Red
Auxiliary and Aftermarket Lighting
Oregon law also governs the use of auxiliary and aftermarket lighting on vehicles.
Fog and Auxiliary Driving Lights
- Permitted Colors: White or amber (yellow)
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Restrictions:
- Lights must not emit blue or bluish light
- Lights with an intensity greater than 300 candlepower must not be used when low beams are required under limited visibility conditions
Underglow Lighting
- Permitted Colors: White or amber
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Restrictions:
- Blue, red, or green underglow lights are prohibited
- Flashing underglow lights are prohibited
- Note: While underglow lighting is not explicitly addressed in Oregon statutes, using prohibited colors or flashing lights can result in violations under ORS 816.360.
Prohibited Lighting Equipment
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Restrictions:
- Vehicles must not be equipped with lighting equipment that is not allowed under ORS 816.350
- Use of prohibited lighting equipment is a Class C traffic violation
Enforcement and Penalties
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Unlawful Use or Failure to Use Lights:
- Operating a vehicle without the required lighting or with prohibited lighting is a Class B traffic violation
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Use of Prohibited Lighting Equipment:
- Equipping a vehicle with unauthorized lighting is a Class C traffic violation
Compliance Tips for Vehicle Owners
- Emergency Vehicles: Ensure lighting equipment complies with the specific color and visibility requirements outlined in the ORS.
- Auxiliary Lighting: Use only white or amber lights for fog and auxiliary driving lights, and ensure they do not exceed the intensity limits.
- Underglow Lighting: Avoid using blue, red, or green underglow lights, and ensure any underglow lighting is non-flashing and within the permitted colors.
- General Compliance: Regularly review the Oregon Vehicle Code to stay updated on any changes to lighting regulations.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult the Oregon Department of Public Safety or a legal professional. If something is incorrect and you would like to suggest an edit, please contact us.
