Swimming pool permit rules in Portland, OR — also covering above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spa installations — set fencing, barrier, alarm, and inspection requirements.
Portland requires a building permit for any in-ground pool and for above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches under PCC Title 24 and the Oregon Residential Specialty Code.
PCC Title 24 and the Oregon Residential Specialty Code require a building permit for all in-ground pools and above-ground pools with water depth greater than 24 inches. Permits include structural, electrical, plumbing, and barrier review. The Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code governs circulation, backflow, and anti-entrapment (VGB Act) equipment. Pool equipment must sit at least 10 feet from property lines unless shielded for noise. Landslide and flood hazard overlays can require geotech and BES approval. Final inspection is required before filling and 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
Portland does not have a general ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, garden statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Items must remain...
Portland, OR
Portland has no specific city ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must stay on the property and not...
Portland, OR
Portland does not have a specific ordinance regulating residential holiday lighting. General electrical safety and nuisance standards apply. Historic Conserv...
Portland, OR
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Portland require Bureau of Development Services permits when they include gas, plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Built-...
Portland, OR
Residential outdoor smokers (offset, pellet, kamado, vertical) are legal in Portland under the cooking-fire exemption to PCC 31.16, but persistent smoke that...
Portland, OR
Portland adopts the Oregon Fire Code (2022 edition based on IFC 2021) through PCC 31.16. Under IFC §308.1.4, propane (LPG) and charcoal grills are prohibited...
See how Portland's pool permits rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.