Neighbor Fence Rules: Auburn vs Kirkland
How do neighbor fence rules rules compare between Auburn, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Auburn and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
RCW 16.60 governs boundary fences and cost-sharing in Washington. ACC 18.31.020 controls height and placement. Spite fences allow civil remedy. A survey before building is strongly recommended.
View full Auburn rules →Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland does not assign fence-cost responsibility. RCW 16.60 governs boundary fences and KZC 115.40 sets height. Spite fences are actionable in civil court. King County mediation at (206) 443-9603.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | RCW 16.60 | RCW 16.60 |
| Cost Sharing | Private agreement | Private agreement |
| Mediation King | (206) 443-9603 | - |
| Spite Fences | Civil remedy | Civil remedy |
| Mediation | - | (206) 443-9603 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Who pays for a shared fence in Auburn?
Washington law allows proportional cost-sharing when both benefit (RCW 16.60), but most suburban fence costs are resolved privately. Auburn does not arbitrate.
My neighbor built a fence on my property. What can I do?
Get a boundary survey. If the fence encroaches, try mediation through King County Dispute Resolution Center before filing a civil claim.
Kirkland FAQ
Who pays for a shared fence in Kirkland?
Washington RCW 16.60 suggests proportional sharing when both benefit, but most Kirkland suburban costs are resolved by private agreement or small claims court.
My neighbor built a fence I think is on my land. What can I do?
Commission a property survey first. If the fence is on your land, try mediation through the King County Dispute Resolution Center at (206) 443-9603 before filing a civil action.
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