Portland generally allows wood, vinyl, composite, chain-link, and masonry fences citywide; barbed wire and electric fences are restricted to industrial zones and design districts can add material rules.
PCC 33.110 allows common residential fencing materials. Barbed wire and razor wire are limited to industrial and select commercial zones and must be at least 6 feet above grade. Electric fences are permitted only in industrial and agricultural zones and must post warning signs every 30 feet. Historic overlay zones such as Irvington, Ladd's Addition, and Alameda can add material and design restrictions through design review. Portland Clean Energy Fund and Bureau of Environmental Services prefer non-treated materials near watercourses. Metal storage-container walls and shipping-container fencing often require a conditional use.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Portland code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Portland, OR
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Portland, OR
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See how Portland's material restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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