Permit Requirements: Bellevue vs Kirkland
How do permit requirements rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Bellevue and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Bellevue, WA
King County
Bellevue requires a building permit for fences over 6 feet under the Washington State Building Code. Fences 6 feet or less need no permit. Retaining walls over 4 feet also require permits.
View full Bellevue 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 | Bellevue | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Trigger | Over 6 feet | Fence over 6 ft |
| Retaining Walls | Over 4 feet need permit | Over 4 ft needs permit |
| Electric/Barbed | Prohibited residential | - |
| Apply | MyBuildingPermit portal | - |
| Electric and Barbed | - | Prohibited residential |
| Apply At | - | MyBuildingPermit.com |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot fence in Bellevue?
No. Fences 6 feet or shorter generally do not require a permit as long as they meet LUC 20.20.400 zoning rules.
How do I apply for a fence permit?
Apply through the MyBuildingPermit.com portal. Fees vary by fence value; 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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