Bellevue vs Federal Way
How do fencing requirements rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Federal Way, WA?
Bellevue and Federal Way have similar restriction levels.
Bellevue, WA
King County
Bellevue adopts IRC Appendix V pool barrier rules. Pools over 24 inches deep need a 48-inch minimum barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates. Openings cannot exceed 4 inches vertically.
View full Bellevue rules →Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way requires pool barriers at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates under IRC Appendix G. Barriers are mandatory for pools and spas deeper than 24 inches.
View full Federal Way rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Federal Way |
|---|---|---|
| Min Height | 48 inches | - |
| Max Gap Under | 2 inches | - |
| Max Opening | 4 inches vertical | 4 inches |
| Gate | Self-close, self-latch | - |
| Code | IRC App V; BCC Title 23 | - |
| Minimum Barrier Height | - | 48 inches |
| Gate Type | - | Self-closing and self-latching |
| Latch Height | - | 54 inches minimum |
| Code Reference | - | IRC Appendix G |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
How tall must a pool fence be in Bellevue?
At least 48 inches measured from the outside, with a maximum 2-inch gap below the barrier and 4-inch maximum vertical openings, under IRC Appendix V adopted via BCC Title 23.
Does my house door need an alarm if it opens to the pool?
Yes. Where a house wall forms part of the pool barrier, any door to the pool area must have an audible alarm or be fitted with a power safety cover compliant with ASTM F1346.
Federal Way FAQ
How tall does my Federal Way pool fence have to be?
At least 48 inches high per IRC Appendix G, with a self-closing self-latching gate and no openings larger than 4 inches.
Do I need door alarms on my house?
If the house wall forms part of the barrier, doors that open to the pool area must have audible alarms or the pool must have a power safety cover.
Compare other topics
See how Bellevue and Federal Way compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool