Permit Requirements: Auburn vs Kent
How do permit requirements rules compare between Auburn, WA and Kent, WA?
Auburn and Kent have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn requires a building permit for fences over 6 feet under IRC R105.2. Fences 6 feet or less need no permit but must meet ACC 18.31.020 zoning. Retaining walls over 4 feet need a permit.
View full Auburn rules →Kent, WA
King County
Kent requires a building permit for fences over 7 feet tall or for any fence on critical area or shoreline parcels. Fences under 7 feet generally do not require a permit but must meet KCC 15.08 height limits.
View full Kent rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Trigger | Over 6 feet | - |
| Retaining Walls | Over 4 feet | - |
| Apply | Auburn Permit Center | - |
| Code | IRC R105.2 / ACC 18.31.020 | KCC 15.08 / WAC 51-50 |
| No Permit Needed | - | Under 7 feet |
| Permit Needed | - | Over 7 feet or critical area |
| Planning Desk | - | (253) 856-5454 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 6 foot fence in Auburn?
No. Fences 6 feet or less are permit-exempt under IRC R105.2 as adopted by Auburn, as long as they meet ACC 18.31.020 setbacks and sight-triangle rules.
How do I apply for a fence permit in Auburn?
Apply online through the Auburn Permit Center or MyBuildingPermit.com. Structural review is required for fences over 6 feet.
Kent FAQ
Do I need a permit for a fence in Kent?
Only for fences over 7 feet tall or in shoreline or critical area zones. Most residential fences under 7 feet are permit-exempt but still zoning-regulated.
Who do I call about Kent fence rules?
Kent Current Planning Division at (253) 856-5454 for zoning questions and sight-triangle checks before installation.
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