Kirkland, WA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)

Building height in Kirkland is regulated through the underlying zoning district set by KMC Title 115. Low-density RS and RSX residential zones limit principal dwellings to approximately 30 feet measured as the average of the highest point of the roof surface above average building elevation. Accessory dwelling units and detached accessory structures have tighter caps, typically 18 to 25 feet. Multifamily RM zones allow buildings from 30 to 55 feet depending on density, and the Downtown, Totem Lake Urban Center, and Juanita Business District zones allow significantly greater heights of 55 to 90 feet with step-backs, design review, and incentives for affordable housing, public space, or green building. State middle housing legislation (HB 1110) permits more units on some single-family lots, and Kirkland zoning amendments implement that framework with adjusted height and bulk standards. Height is measured from average grade and does not include specific exempt features such as chimneys, antennas, or small parapet walls within set limits. Hillside and shoreline properties must also meet view-corridor and shoreline envelope requirements under the Shoreline Master Program. Calculations often hinge on grade-averaging and critical areas; Kirkland Planning at (425) 587-3600 can confirm the allowed height on a specific parcel.