Newberg, OR. — The City of Newberg issued a statement clarifying how the Newberg Flagpole and surrounding area may be used as a site for memorials and public assembly.
City officials said they recognize and respect residents’ First Amendment rights to assemble and petition by gathering at the Newberg Flagpole, located at the east entrance of downtown. The city noted it has allowed community members to place memorial items at the flagpole as a way to process grief, frustration, or disagreement with events affecting the local community, the nation, or the world.
However, the city emphasized that public property is intended for everyone’s use and that memorials placed at the flagpole are subject to a time limit. Under city policy, memorial items may remain in place for 30 days following the initial event that prompted the memorial. A sign is posted at the site notifying the public of the scheduled removal date, and items added after the initial event do not extend that deadline.
City officials stressed that memorials do not require and are not issued formal permits. No permit has been issued for the memorial currently at the flagpole, and the only formal notice posted indicates the items will be respectfully removed by Feb. 9, 2026. The city noted that a similar approach was taken with a prior memorial to Charlie Kirk, which also proceeded without a permit but included a posted removal date.
Public safety and accessibility remain the city’s top priorities, officials said. Community members placing memorial items are asked to keep sidewalks clear and ensure memorials do not obstruct pedestrian access. Items that fall into walkways or roadways will be removed.
Residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the city at publicaffairs@newbergoregon.gov.
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