Portland follows the Oregon Residential Specialty Code Appendix V requiring 48-inch barriers, self-closing gates, and approved safety covers for residential swimming pools.
Oregon Residential Specialty Code Appendix V, adopted citywide through PCC Title 24, requires residential pool barriers at least 48 inches high measured from the outside, with vertical members spaced no more than 4 inches apart. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching with the latch 54 inches above grade. In-ground pools and spas deeper than 24 inches need alarms on doors leading to the pool area or a power safety cover meeting ASTM F1346. Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code governs circulation and anti-entrapment under the VGB Act. Portland Bureau of Development Services inspects barriers before pool occupancy.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how Portland's pool barriers rules stack up against other locations.
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