Marion County, OR Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Measurement citation
- MCC 17.117.090
- Along a right-of-way
- From sidewalk, curb, or shoulder
- Elsewhere
- From finished grade
- General height cap
- 8 feet
- Sight-distance authority
- Public Works standards
Summary
Along a public right-of-way, Marion County measures fence height from the sidewalk, or the curb, or the finished shoulder grade if neither exists. All other fences are measured from the finished grade where they sit (MCC 17.117.090).
All fences, walls and hedges along a public right-of-way will be measured from and along the sidewalk, or if no sidewalk exists, from and along the curb, or if no curb exists, from and along the finished shoulder grade of the right-of-way. All other fences will be measured from and along the finished grade upon which the fence, wall or hedge is located.
Full Breakdown
Beyond the 8-foot and 48-inch caps in MCC 17.117.080, the Rural Zoning Code fixes exactly how height is measured so builders and inspectors agree. MCC 17.117.090 states that fences, walls, and hedges along a public right-of-way are measured from and along the sidewalk; if there is no sidewalk, from the curb; and if there is no curb, from the finished shoulder grade of the right-of-way. Every other fence is measured from the finished grade upon which it sits. This prevents adding height by mounding soil. Fences must also stay clear of vision-obstruction zones near street corners and driveways under Public Works sight-distance standards.
Violations & Fines
A fence that exceeds the limit once measured by the code method is nonconforming and may be ordered lowered or removed by the county.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add fence height by building up the ground first?
Where is fence height measured from near a street?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Marion County
How Marion County compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Compare Marion County to another location·View the Oregon fence regulations overview
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