Clackamas County, OR Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Most buildings (urban R)
- 35 feet
- ADUs
- 35 feet
- Large accessory buildings
- 20 ft or dwelling height
- Height exceptions
- ZDO Section 904
- Applies to
- Unincorporated county
Summary
In the urban low-density residential districts, the ZDO caps most buildings, including accessory dwelling units, at 35 feet. Large accessory buildings (over 500 sq ft) accessory to a home are limited to 20 feet or the height of the primary dwelling, whichever is greater.
Maximum Building Height: Accessory buildings larger than 500 square feet and accessory to a primary dwelling, except accessory dwelling units: 20 feet or the height of the primary dwelling, whichever is greater. All other buildings, including accessory dwelling units: 35 feet.
Full Breakdown
Maximum building height is a per-district ZDO standard. In the urban low-density residential zones (R-2.5 to R-30), all buildings, including ADUs, may be up to 35 feet; accessory buildings larger than 500 square feet that are accessory to a primary dwelling are capped at 20 feet or the height of the primary dwelling, whichever is greater. Height exceptions (for chimneys, antennas, etc.) are addressed in ZDO Section 904. Rural and resource districts and each incorporated city set their own height limits.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the district height limit without an approved height exception or variance is a ZDO violation and can prevent permit finalization or require alteration of the structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can I build my house?
What about a big detached shop or garage?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Clackamas County
Compare Clackamas County to another location·View the Oregon building setbacks & zoning overview
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