Keeping Us All Safe

Security and Entering the Capitol

New security measures are being taken to ensure the protection of our public servants, guests and private citizens when visiting the Capitol.  Due to security measures currently in place it is advisable to leave personal items in your vehicle. Anyone who does not possess a Capitol issued ID/Access card is considered a member of the public.

Process for public access:  Due to on-going construction at the Capitol, the current public entrance is located on State Street.  Anyone entering the building will be required to walk through a metal detector and have all bags and packages examined through a package scanner. Personal items may be hand-inspected.  Prohibited items include:

Firearms:  It is unlawful to enter the Oregon State Capitol building with a firearm of any kind unless a valid exception described in ORS 166.370 (3) applies. [Note: a concealed handgun license is not a valid exception, per ORS 166.370 (1)(b).]

Weapons:  to include electronic defense weapons, facsimile weapons, knives (with a blade no longer than 3.5 inches), tasers, pepper spray, noxious or caustic chemicals, explosives, fireworks, firecrackers, and sparklers are not allowed into the State Capitol. At the discretion of security personnel and in accordance with ORS 173.720, any items deemed to be a possible weapon, a security risk or disruptive to governmental activities, or items that pose a risk to public safety, are not allowed into the State Capitol.

Persons have the right to refuse any or all security screening procedures. However, refusal to comply will result in entry to the building being denied. At any time during the screening process visitors may decide that they do not wish to be screened. Visitors will be allowed to exit the checkpoint with their belongings, as long as no potential threat or illegally possessed items have been identified.  Packages, letters and personal Items may not be delivered or left behind at access points. Visitors exiting the Capitol must be reprocessed for return entry.

Note – DELAYS POSSIBLE – Allow time in your schedule for security processing into the Capitol.  Visitors must use the public entrance on State Street.