Fence info

Do I Need A Permit For A Fence?

• YES;  IF... the fence is served as a barrier around a swimming pool.
• YES;  IF... the fence is a required in-ground swimming pool barrier and/or over 7’ feet tall per the 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code R101.2.2  https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/codes-stand/Documents/23orsc/23orsc-ch1.pdf

In addition, if the fence is over 8’ in height, then it will also require a Planning Department permit with Planning Commission’s Quasi-Judicial approval.  Call or visit our Community Development Center to acquire the permit forms.  

What are the Municipal Code Restrictions;

The City’s Municipal Code regulates how tall a fence can be in the front yard of the property.

Municipal Code Title 17 – Land Use and Development;

17.100.110 Fences or walls.  A. Fences, walls or combinations of earthen berms and fences or walls up to four feet in height may be constructed in required front yards. Rear and side yard fences, or berm/fence combinations behind the required front yard setback may be up to 6’ feet in height without any additional permits.

MUST ALSO MEET THE VISION CLEAR AREA;

The City has ‘Vision Clearance’ requirements on corner lots abutting streets and in front yards adjacent to driveways. This is to maintain safety for pedestrians and vehicles.  

12.10.020 Visual Clearance -- Required   B.  A visual clearance area shall contain no vehicle, recreational vehicle, watercraft, parts designed to be affixed to a vehicle of any type, hedge, planting, fence, wall structure, sign, or temporary or permanent obstruction that would impede visibility between a height of 3’ and 10’ feet above the center line grades of the intersecting streets or railroad.  (see diagram within the link below)

Link to full Visual Clearance code;  

• https://scappoose.municipal.codes/Code/12.10

Questions, contact; Elizabeth Happala

503-543-7184    ehappala@scappoose.gov