Fence Permit in Portland (2026)
Fence permit requirements, fees, and process for Portland, OR. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Fence permit requirements in Portland, OR are conditional depending on project scope.
A Fence permit may be required depending on project scope in Portland, OR. The Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS) handles permit applications for Portland. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a fence permit in Portland.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a Fence Permit Is Required in Portland: Permit not required for fences under 6 ft in side/rear yard; permit required for fences over 3 ft in front yard or over 6 ft anywhere
Permit Fees
Fence Permit Fees in Portland: $130–$300. Estimated timeline: 1-3 weeks.
Estimated timeline: 1-3 weeks
How to Get a Fence Permit in Portland
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Portland: Permit not required for fences under 6 ft in side/rear yard; permit required for fences over 3 ft in front yard or over 6 ft anywhere.
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS) at https://www.portland.gov/bds for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://www.portland.gov/bds/permits or in person at the Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS).
Pay the permit fee: $130–$300.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 1-3 weeks.
Schedule required inspections through https://www.portland.gov/bds. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: Front yard fences over 3 ft require permit. Side/rear fences over 6 ft require permit and structural review. Masonry walls require separate structural permit. Portland Zoning Code 33.130 applies to fence height in applicable zones.
Additional Requirements
- Historic district review may be required
- Vision clearance area restrictions at intersections
Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS)
Phone: (503) 823-7300
Website: https://www.portland.gov/bds
Online Permits: https://www.portland.gov/bds/permits
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm (permit center varies)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Portland?
Yes. Portland is one of the most ADU-friendly cities in the US. You can build a detached ADU up to 800 sqft in your backyard or an attached ADU up to 75% of your primary home's size (max 800 sqft). Oregon HB 2001 (2019) preempts local restrictions, and Portland eliminated owner-occupancy requirements in 2016. No additional parking is required. A building permit from Portland BDS is required.
What is the difference between Portland's middle housing and ADU rules?
Portland's middle housing rules (implementing Oregon HB 2001) allow duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, cottage clusters, and townhomes on any single-family lot by-right — these are full dwelling units. ADUs are accessory units added to a lot that already has a primary dwelling. You can combine both: for example, a duplex with an ADU in the backyard could allow up to 3 or more units on a single lot.
Do I need a permit for a home business in Portland?
Yes. A Home Occupation Permit (approximately $80) is required to operate a business from your Portland home. You may have limited client visits (up to 4 per week per business), up to 2 non-resident employees, and must not create external evidence of the business. Oregon also allows cottage food operations (baked goods, jams, etc.) with registration from the Oregon Department of Agriculture.
Can I do Airbnb in Portland?
Yes, with a permit. Portland requires a Short-Term Rental Permit (Type A or B). Type A allows renting your primary residence including entire home when you are away. Annual fee starts at $178. You must display your permit number on listing platforms. Portland collects Transient Lodging Tax (currently 11.5%) — Airbnb remits this automatically. Operating without a permit carries fines up to $500/day.
What are the setbacks in Portland's R5 zone?
In Portland's R5 zone (one of the most common single-family zones), the front setback is 10 feet, side setbacks are 5 feet on each side, and the rear setback is 5 feet. R5 allows up to 50% lot coverage and buildings up to 30 feet tall (2 stories). Verify your specific parcel at PortlandMaps.com — overlay zones, historic districts, or environmental overlays may add additional requirements.
Is solar required on new homes in Portland?
No. Oregon does not have a statewide new-construction solar mandate like California. Solar is encouraged and Portland offers expedited solar permits, but it is not required. The Oregon Residential Energy Tax Credit provides financial incentives for solar installation. Portland General Electric (PGE) and Pacific Power both offer net metering programs.
How do I look up the zoning for my Portland property?
Use PortlandMaps at portlandmaps.com. Enter your address to find your zone designation, overlay zones, flood zone status, historic designation, environmental overlay, and other land use information. Portland Maps is the official City of Portland resource and is regularly updated. You can also contact Portland BDS at (503) 823-7300 or visit the permit center at 1900 SW 4th Ave.
Source: Portland Building Code — Fence Requirements. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source