Kirkland's Building Setbacks & Zoning: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles building setbacks & zoning a little differently. In Kirkland, Washington, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Setback Rules

Kirkland residential setbacks are defined in KMC Title 115 zoning, with typical low-density requirements of 20 feet in front, 5 feet on the sides, and 15 feet in the rear, plus eave and fence exceptions.

Key details: Front Yard: 20 feet typical. Side Yard: 5 feet each. Rear Yard: 15 feet typical. Eaves: Up to 24 inches encroachment. Code: KMC Title 115.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

Structure Height Limits

Kirkland single-family height limits are typically 30 feet in RS and RSX zones under KMC Title 115, with higher limits downtown and in Totem Lake where mixed-use heights can reach 70 feet or more.

Key details: Typical SFR Height: 30 feet. ADU Limit: 18 to 25 feet. Downtown Limit: Up to 90 feet. Measurement: Average grade method. Code: KMC Title 115.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

Lot Coverage Limits

Lot coverage in Kirkland residential zones is capped between 35 and 50 percent depending on zone, measured under KMC Title 115 including primary and accessory structures but excluding specified uncovered features.

Key details: Low-Density RS: 35 percent typical. High-Density RM: Up to 50 percent. Counts: Buildings and ADUs. Excluded: Low decks and walkways. Code: KMC Title 115.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

The Bottom Line

Kirkland's building setbacks & zoning rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Kirkland is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Kirkland can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.