Regan Brown
Oregon is one of only two US states where drivers are not allowed to pump their own gas. This rule was first established in 1951, and while some exceptions have been made in recent years, it remains largely in place. When visiting a gas station in Oregon, an attendant will approach your car, take your payment, and pump the gas for you. This full-service model is unique to Oregon and New Jersey and may come as a surprise to those from self-service states. While it is not a crime to pump your own gas, you may be fined up to $500 for doing so. This fine is not enforced by the pump, but by the attendant, who is also liable for any mistakes made during the fueling process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel transportation limit without HAZMAT endorsement | 119 gallons per non-bulk package |
| Fuel transportation limit with HAZMAT endorsement | 1000 gallons |
| Fuel transportation limit per tank | 115 gallons |
| Maximum number of tanks per trailer | 8 |
| Fuel transportation limit per trailer | 920 gallons |
| Oregon fuel permit requirement | Vehicles with a combined weight over 26,000 pounds |
| Self-service fuel stations | Allowed in rural counties with less than 40,000 residents, between 6 pm and 6 am |
| Commercial cardlock access | Business owners who agree to use 900 gallons of fuel annually |
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What You'll Learn
Oregon's unique fuel tax system
Oregon has a unique fuel tax system in place, where drivers are not allowed to pump their own gas. This rule was first established in 1951 and Oregon is one of only two US states with this restriction. While this may seem like an inconvenience to some, a large percentage of Oregonians appreciate having someone else pump their gas. This system has led to the development of fuel cards, which provide customers with the ability to pump their own fuel, specifically diesel, at select locations.
There are exceptions to the rule, however. In 2015, Oregon relaxed the self-serve law in 15 rural counties with populations of less than 40,000. During specific hours, usually from 6 pm to 6 am, some fuel providers in these counties allow self-service, enabling the stations to remain open 24 hours a day. This change was implemented to accommodate stations with staffing shortages or those concerned about employee illness.
Additionally, Oregon has introduced legislation regarding the type of diesel fuel sold in the state. Retail stations with low diesel volumes may encounter issues with fuel due to slow turnover. In contrast, commercial cardlock locations with higher diesel volumes tend to have fresher fuel due to faster cycling. These cardlock locations also offer customers a choice between B20 and B5 diesel fuels, with the latter being the standard in Oregon.
The unique fuel tax system in Oregon, with its mix of full-service and self-service options, along with evolving diesel fuel options, presents a varied landscape for drivers in the state. While some appreciate the convenience of assisted service, others value the flexibility that self-service and fuel cards provide.
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The process of full-service fuelling
In Oregon, all gas stations are full-service, meaning that it is not self-service and attendants will pump your gas for you. While pumping your own gas in Oregon is not a crime, it is subject to a civil penalty of up to $500. If you pull into a gas station, you just need to tell the attendant how much gas you want and they are fully liable for any mistakes made, such as pumping the wrong fuel into your vehicle or over-pumping.
- Vehicle Preparation: Before fuelling, it is important to familiarize yourself with the fuel requirements of your vehicle. Different vehicles may require different types of fuel, such as diesel, gasoline, or kerosene. Know the fuel grade and quantity you need.
- Approaching the Pump: Pull up to the side of the pump, usually within 10 feet or so. Exit your vehicle and put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands from any fuel spillage. Keep your vehicle running if possible.
- Fuel Cap Removal: With gloves on, remove the fuel cap and keep it nearby. This is necessary to access the fuel tank and start the fuelling process.
- Fuel Grade Confirmation: Clearly communicate the fuel grade and quantity to the attendant. For example, you can say, "Please top off the tank with 100LL." Use fuel order forms or colour-coding for positive identification. Confirm the fuel grade with the line service professional to ensure accuracy.
- Active Observation: Stay near the vehicle and actively observe the fuelling process. Ensure that the fuel nozzle is compatible with your vehicle's fuel filler. Avgas nozzles are typically small and round, while jet fuel nozzles are larger and flattened. Speak up immediately if something doesn't seem right.
- Fuelling Completion: Once the tank is full, return the nozzle to the pump. This is usually done by pulling a lever and placing the nozzle back into its receptacle. This action automatically shuts off the pump, completing the fuelling process.
- Post-Fuelling Procedures: After fuelling, there may be additional steps for data entry and documentation. Note down the date, price, total fuel used, vendor, and odometer reading. Submit this information for processing and save a record for reference.
By following these steps, you can ensure a safe and efficient full-service fuelling process, reducing the risk of errors and maintaining the proper care of your vehicle.
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Permits and fines
Oregon has specific requirements for fuel permits and trip permits. A fuel permit is required for vehicles travelling out of state that meet certain criteria. This includes vehicles with a gross weight, combined gross weight, or registered weight of over 26,000 pounds, or a power unit with 2 axles and a gross weight of over 26,000 pounds. Additionally, a temporary permit is needed for vehicles crossing state lines without International Registration Plan (IRP) credentials or with certain weight specifications.
Oregon also has a mileage tax assessed against carriers operating intrastate and interstate with a combined vehicle weight of over 26,000 pounds. The tax is calculated based on the vehicle's declared weight and the distance travelled within Oregon.
When transporting fuel, it's important to comply with federal regulations. Diesel fuel, for example, is considered a hazardous material, and there are restrictions on how much fuel can be legally transported without a HAZMAT endorsement. Generally, a HAZMAT endorsement is required on a driver's Commercial Driver's License (CDL) when transporting hazardous materials. However, there is an exception for non-bulk packages of combustible liquids, allowing drivers to transport diesel fuel without a HAZMAT endorsement if the package is under a certain gallon limit, typically 119 gallons per package.
To ensure compliance with regulations, it's recommended to verify the specific requirements and restrictions for fuel transportation in Oregon, as there may be additional state and local limitations.
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Exemptions and how they work
Oregon is one of only two US states where drivers are not allowed to pump their own gas. This rule was first established in 1951 and remains in place today, with some exceptions and variations.
While the general rule in Oregon prohibits self-service at the pump, there are certain exemptions and variations that apply in specific counties and circumstances. Here's an overview:
Rural Counties: In 2015, Oregon relaxed the laws in 15 rural counties with populations of less than 40,000. In these counties, self-service fuelling is allowed from 6 pm to 6 am at select fuel providers. This change enables these stations to remain open 24 hours a day. Additionally, some stations without attached markets or convenience stores allow self-service fuelling 24 hours a day.
Temporary Changes: During the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, from March 28 to May 23, 2020, self-service laws were temporarily modified. Some stations allowed self-service fuelling, while others provided self-service with attendants regularly cleaning contact surfaces between customers. These temporary changes aimed to address staff shortages and reduce the risk of infection.
Diesel Vehicles: Oregon makes some exceptions for diesel vehicles. Some retail stations allow customers to use diesel pumps independently, although this option may not be consistently available. Customers who want more consistent access to self-service diesel fuel can apply for fuel cards at CFN or Pacific Pride cardlock locations. These cards provide access to diesel-only pumps with no minimum purchase requirements. Cardlock locations often have larger lanes and less crowded facilities, making them convenient for fuelling diesel-powered recreational vehicles, motorhomes, or trucks pulling boats or trailers.
Commercial Filling Stations: Commercial filling stations, such as Pacific Pride, also fall under the exemption category. These stations cater to commercial vehicles with larger tanks and typically offer faster fuel cycling, resulting in fresher fuel. Cardlock locations may also provide fuel options like B20 (20% biofuel) in addition to the standard B5 required in Oregon. Accessing commercial cardlocks typically requires business ownership and an agreement to use a minimum of 900 gallons of fuel annually.
It's important to note that while these exemptions exist, the general rule in Oregon is still against self-service fuelling at gas stations. Pumping your own gas can be subject to a civil penalty, and attendants are liable for any mistakes made during the fuelling process.
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Fuelling your own diesel vehicle
Dyed diesel, also known as off-road diesel, is intended for non-road use, such as in agricultural equipment, generators, and similar applications. This type of diesel is dyed red to distinguish it from other types and is exempt from federal and state taxes. Using dyed diesel in an on-road vehicle is illegal and can result in significant fines.
PUC diesel is for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) above 26,000 pounds. These vehicles require special PUC plates and may be subject to additional taxes and regulations.
On-road diesel, or auto diesel, is the most common type used by non-truck vehicles driving on streets, roads, and highways in Oregon. This fuel includes federal, state, and local taxes in its price. The cost of auto diesel at retail stations can vary based on local tax rates and is generally higher than standard gasoline.
When fuelling your own diesel vehicle in Oregon, there are a few options to consider:
- Mobile on-site fuelling: This option allows you to bring fuel directly to your vehicle's location, reducing driver labour and increasing vehicle uptime. It can save time and money by eliminating the need for drivers to stop at fuel stations and can be integrated with fleet card programs.
- Wholesale diesel sellers: Buying diesel from wholesale sellers can help you avoid the retail markup and credit card pricing that is often added to the fuel cost at gas stations. This option may be particularly beneficial if you have a large fleet of vehicles.
- Commercial fuelling stations: Accessing diesel from commercial fuelling stations can provide savings on state, federal, and local taxes. This option may be more readily available than wholesale sellers but still offers the benefit of avoiding taxes associated with retail fuel purchases.
It's important to be mindful of the current fuel prices and market conditions when fuelling your own diesel vehicle. As of February 2022, the average price of diesel fuel in Oregon had reached its highest level since July 2014. The COVID-19 Omicron variant and crude oil prices have impacted fuel prices, and diesel fuel is typically more expensive than standard gasoline. Additionally, diesel fuel is subject to a higher federal excise tax than gasoline.
In summary, fuelling your own diesel vehicle in Oregon requires navigating different fuel types and their associated taxes. By exploring options like mobile on-site fuelling, wholesale diesel sellers, and commercial fuelling stations, you can optimize your time and fuel costs while complying with the state's regulations.
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Frequently asked questions
No, Oregon is one of only two US states where drivers are not allowed to pump their own gas. However, some rural counties allow self-service between 6 pm and 6 am.
In Oregon, you can transport up to 1,000 gallons of fuel without a HAZMAT endorsement if the fuel package is under a certain gallon limit. Each individual tank has a maximum capacity of 115 gallons, and each trailer can have up to 8 tanks.
Yes, there is an exception for non-bulk packages of combustible liquids.
Diesel fuel is considered a hazardous material and is classified as a Class C Combustible.
If your vehicle does not have an IFTA decal and license for the states or Canadian provinces it will be travelling in, you will need a fuel permit. A temporary permit is needed if your vehicle has a gross weight, combined gross weight, or registered weight over 26,000 pounds, or if it has 3 or more axles.
