Permit Requirements: Auburn vs Kirkland
How do permit requirements rules compare between Auburn, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Auburn and Kirkland 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 →Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland does not require a separate permit for fences 6 feet or shorter that meet KZC 115.40. Fences over 6 feet and any retaining walls over 4 feet require building permits through Kirkland Development Services.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Trigger | Over 6 feet | Fence over 6 ft |
| Retaining Walls | Over 4 feet | Over 4 ft needs permit |
| Apply | Auburn Permit Center | - |
| Code | IRC R105.2 / ACC 18.31.020 | - |
| Electric and Barbed | - | Prohibited residential |
| Apply At | - | MyBuildingPermit.com |
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.
Kirkland FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot fence in Kirkland?
No. Fences 6 feet or shorter that meet KZC 115.40 setbacks and sight-distance rules do not require a permit.
How do I apply for a fence or wall permit in Kirkland?
Apply online through MyBuildingPermit.com or contact Kirkland Development Services at (425) 587-3600. Fees vary by valuation and structural review requirements.
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