Clackamas County, OR Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Behind building line
- 6 feet maximum
- Forward of building line
- 4 feet maximum
- Near intersection
- 30 inches within 20 ft
- Governing code
- ZDO Section 315
- Applies to
- Unincorporated county only
Summary
In unincorporated urban residential Clackamas County, fences and sight-obscuring plantings may reach 6 feet at or behind the front building line, but only 4 feet forward of it (toward the street). Inside cities, the city's code applies.
Maximum Height for Fences and Sight-Obscuring Plantings: 6 feet at or behind the building line of the dwelling closest to front lot line(s)... or 4 feet forward of the building line of the dwelling closest to front lot line(s).
Full Breakdown
Fence height in the unincorporated county is a Zoning & Development Ordinance (ZDO) standard, not a countywide flat number. In the village-lot urban residential districts the ZDO caps fences/sight-obscuring plantings at 6 feet behind the dwelling's building line and 4 feet in the area forward of it. Corner-vision rules further limit anything sight-obscuring within 20 feet of an intersection to 30 inches. Rural (RA-2, EFU) districts rely on setback and corner-vision limits rather than a stated height cap. Oregon cities (Oregon City, Lake Oswego, Milwaukie, Happy Valley) set their own fence heights.
Violations & Fines
A fence exceeding the standard is a ZDO violation enforced by Code Enforcement (503-742-4452); the county issues a notice to correct and may pursue civil penalties until the fence is brought into compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can my backyard fence be?
Does this apply inside city limits?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Clackamas County
How Clackamas County compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Compare Clackamas County to another location·View the Oregon fence regulations overview
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