Fence Requirements: Auburn vs Seattle
How do fence requirements rules compare between Auburn, WA and Seattle, WA?
Auburn and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn fences must be structurally sound, maintained, and built within property lines under ACC 18.31.020. Sight triangles cap 42 inches at driveways. Critical areas need extra review.
View full Auburn rules →Seattle, WA
King County
In unincorporated King County, front-yard fences may be up to 4 ft tall and side and rear fences up to 6 ft. Corner lots must keep vision clearance. Critical-area buffers may restrict fencing.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | Required, sound condition | - |
| Setbacks | Sight triangle 42 in | - |
| Finished Side | Practice/HOA: outward | - |
| Code | ACC 18.31.020 | - |
| Front Yard Max | - | 4 ft |
| Side/Rear Max | - | 6 ft |
| Over 6 ft | - | Permit required |
| Vision Triangle | - | About 30 in on corners |
| Critical Areas | - | Special rules |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Does Auburn require the finished side of a fence face the neighbor?
ACC 18.31.020 does not mandate finished-side orientation, but HOA covenants and common practice put the smooth side outward.
Can my fence sit right on the property line in Auburn?
Only with written agreement from the neighboring owner. Otherwise build entirely within your lot. A survey is strongly recommended.
Seattle FAQ
How tall can I build a fence in my front yard in unincorporated King County?
Up to 4 feet in the required front-yard setback in residential zones under KCC Title 21A. Side and rear yard fences may go up to 6 feet without a permit.
Do fence rules differ on waterfront property?
Yes. Shorelines and stream buffers are regulated under KCC 21A.24 and the Shoreline Master Program. Fences may need to be open-design or set back from buffers to preserve salmon habitat.
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