Safety Rules: Gresham vs Portland
How do safety rules rules compare between Gresham, OR and Portland, OR?
Portland has fewer restrictions than Gresham.
Gresham, OR
Multnomah County
Gresham follows Oregon building code for pool safety. Pools require permits, inspections, electrical bonding, and approved drain covers to prevent entrapment.
View full Gresham rules →Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Portland requires building permits for in-ground pools, electrical permits for all pool installations, and compliance with Oregon Residential Specialty Code. Pool setbacks, barrier compliance, and drainage are required for permit approval.
View full Portland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gresham | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Permits | Required for construction/modification | - |
| Drain Covers | Must be anti-entrapment | - |
| Electrical | Proper bonding and grounding required | - |
| Maintenance | Prevent mosquito breeding | - |
| Permit Required | - | Building + electrical permit for in-ground pools |
| Application Location | - | BDS Development Services Center, 1900 SW 4th Ave |
| Slope Setback | - | Required — pools must be set back from adjacent slopes |
| Anti-Entrapment | - | ORSC requires Virginia Graeme Baker Act compliance on drains |
| Public Pools | - | OAR 333-060 (Oregon Health Authority) governs public/commercial pools |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gresham FAQ
Do I need a permit for a pool in Gresham?
Yes. Swimming pool construction and modification requires permits and inspections per Oregon building code.
What safety features are required for Gresham pools?
Anti-entrapment drain covers, proper electrical bonding, and emergency shutoff switches are required.
Portland FAQ
What pool safety equipment is required in Portland?
Portland requires building permits for in-ground pools, electrical permits for all pool installations, and compliance with Oregon Residential Specialty Code. Pool setbacks, barrier compliance, and drainage are required for permit approval.
Do I need a permit for my swimming pool in Portland?
Permit Required: Building + electrical permit for in-ground pools. Application Location: BDS Development Services Center, 1900 SW 4th Ave. Slope Setback: Required — pools must be set back from adjacent slopes. Anti-Entrapment: ORSC requires Virginia Graeme Baker Act compliance on drains.
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