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

Tigard Municipal Code § 14.16.340 sets the barrier rule for swimming pools in the City of Tigard. Each swimming pool not totally enclosed by a structure must be enclosed by a substantial fence at least 4 feet in height and equipped with a self-closing and latching gate. The one exception is where the pool is bordered by a wall of an adjacent structure at least 4 feet in height. The code defines a swimming pool as an artificial basin, chamber or tank constructed of impervious material, having a depth of 18 inches or more, and used or intended to be used for swimming, diving or recreational bathing.

The section also fixes spacing. No swimming pool can sit nearer than 3 feet from any lot line, and no enclosing fence or wall can be built nearer than 3 feet to the outer walls of the pool. In no case can the distance between the pool and the lot line or wall be closer than Title 18 allows, and the lot line is the one defined in Title 18 of the city code, so a stricter Title 18 distance controls over the 3 feet. The barrier also carries an upkeep duty. A fence is an accessory structure under § 14.16.070, and § 14.16.100 requires accessory structures on residential property to be maintained structurally safe and sound and in good repair. The building official inspects buildings and structures regulated by the chapter under § 14.16.420, and the chapter applies to all property in the City except Group "I" occupancies (§ 14.16.030).