Clackamas County, OR Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)

Section 8.10.050(J)(3) of the Clackamas County Code requires that 'code-compliant pool and hot tub barriers shall be present' at any registered short-term rental. This sits inside the chapter's broader Building and Fire Safety standards, which also require working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed per the Oregon Residential Specialty Code (J.1), at least two fire extinguishers per dwelling unit (J.2), an operable emergency escape and rescue opening in every sleeping area including basements (J.4), and no open building or zoning code violations on the property (J.5).

Because the barrier standard is tied to the word 'code-compliant,' the operative construction and height standards come from the Oregon Residential Specialty Code and the Clackamas County Building Code adopted at Section 9.02.040(E), which the Building Official enforces for any pool, spa or hot tub installation on the property. A new short-term rental applicant must certify compliance with all of Section 8.10.050 through the affidavit required under Section 8.10.040, and an approved Land Use Compatibility Statement is required before registration. County staff acting for the Administrator may examine the premises under Section 8.10.060 at any reasonable time to verify the barrier and the rest of the safety package are in place.