The City of Troutdale provides free sand and sandbags to residents and businesses who need them to protect their property from flooding. Please note that this is a self-service operation. The City provides the sand and empty bags, but you are responsible for:
- Filling the sandbags
- Tying the sandbags
- Loading the sandbags into your vehicle
- Transporting the sandbags to your location
Pickup Information
Location: Behind the Public Works Shop at 342 SW 4th Street, Troutdale, OR 97060
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Please arrive no later than 4:00 p.m. to allow adequate time for filling and loading sandbags.
What to bring:
- Your own shovel
- Gloves (recommended)
- Assistance, if needed – sandbags can be heavy when filled
- A vehicle capable of transporting filled sandbags
Proper Techniques
For maximum effectiveness when using sandbags:
- Use a pointed shovel to fill bags or use a cropped traffic cone to act as a funnel.
- Fill bags halfway – This allows the bags to mold and seal more effectively. A properly filled sandbag should weigh approximately 35-40 pounds.
- Fold the top – Fold the open end of the bag over before placing it, rather than tying it closed.
- Stack in pyramid formation – Place bags tightly against each other in a pyramid or stair-step pattern.
- Place lengthwise – Position bags lengthwise and parallel to the direction of water flow.
- Compact as you go – Step on each bag to eliminate air pockets and create a tighter seal.
Guidelines
- Please be mindful of City crew operations while on-site
- Do not block access to City equipment or vehicles
- Clean up any spilled sand before leaving
- Limit quantities to what you reasonably need for your property
Sandbag Disposal
After floodwaters recede:
- If sand is contaminated with sewage or hazardous materials, contact Public Works for disposal guidance
- If sand is clean, it may be emptied and reused in your yard or garden
- Empty sandbags can be disposed of in your regular garbage
Questions?
For more information about sandbag pickup or flood preparedness, contact Troutdale Public Works:
Phone: 503-674-3300
Address: 342 SW 4th Street, Troutdale, OR 97060
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Additional Flood Preparedness Resources
Directions
Troutdale Public Works Building
342 SW 4th Street
Troutdale, OR 97060