King County Code Enforcement investigates violations of county codes in unincorporated areas. Complaints can be filed by phone at (206) 296-6650, by mail, or through the online complaint form in King County's Online Permitting System. The department handles zoning, building, property maintenance, shoreline, and critical area violations.
The King County Code Enforcement Section, part of the Department of Local Services, investigates complaints regarding violations of King County Code (KCC) in unincorporated areas. This does not cover incorporated cities like Seattle, Bellevue, or Renton, which have their own code enforcement. Unincorporated King County includes areas such as White Center, Skyway, Fairwood, East Federal Way, and the rural communities east of the Cascade foothills. Complaints can be filed by calling (206) 296-6650, writing to the Code Enforcement Section, or using the online complaint form through the King County Online Permitting System (MyBuildingPermit.com). Types of violations investigated include: accumulation of junk and debris, clearing or grading without permits, construction without a permit, dangerous or open-to-entry buildings, illegally placed mobile homes, irresponsible or hazardous development, livestock infractions, open wells and hazardous conditions, operation of an illegal business, storage of junk cars, and zoning code infractions. Complaints can be filed anonymously, though providing contact information helps investigators follow up. For emergencies involving immediate danger to life or safety, call 911.
After investigation, violators receive a notice of violation with a compliance timeline. Non-compliance can lead to civil penalties, liens on the property, and referral to the King County Prosecuting Attorney's office. Repeat offenders face escalating fines.
King County, WA
In unincorporated King County, fences 6 feet or less in height may be built on or within property lines without a building permit. Fences over 6 feet require...
King County, WA
Unincorporated King County's marine shoreline along Puget Sound and Vashon-Maury Island is regulated under the Shoreline Management Act (RCW 90.58), the King...
King County, WA
In unincorporated King County, an above-ground pool that can hold water more than 24 inches deep is regulated as a swimming pool under the Washington State R...
King County, WA
In unincorporated King County, a one-story detached storage shed of 200 square feet or less, accessory to a residential or agricultural use, is exempt from a...
King County, WA
Unincorporated King County requires private swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least five feet high under K.C.C. 16.70.020, with self-closing/self...
King County, WA
King County Ordinance 18467 (2017) limits county cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, and Washington's Keep Washington Working Act (RCW 10.93.16...
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