Structure Height Limits: Edmonds vs Everett
How do structure height limits rules compare between Edmonds, WA and Everett, WA?
Everett has fewer restrictions than Edmonds.
Edmonds, WA
Snohomish County
Washington adopts the International Building Code statewide through chapter 51-50 WAC, setting maximum heights and stories tied to construction type and occupancy classifications.
View full Edmonds rules →Everett, WA
Snohomish County
Everett zoning code sets maximum building heights by district. Residential zones typically limit structures to 35 feet or 2 to 3 stories.
View full Everett rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Edmonds | Everett |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | RCW 19.27 / WAC 51-50 | - |
| Type V wood frame | 40 to 70 feet | - |
| Sprinkler bonus | +20 feet typical | - |
| Local override | Stricter only | - |
| Residential | - | 35 feet / 2.5 stories typical |
| Measured From | - | Average finished grade |
| Exceptions | - | Chimneys, antennas limited |
| Topic | - | Structure Height Limits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Edmonds FAQ
Can a city allow a wood building taller than 70 feet?
Only through state-adopted mass timber provisions. WAC 51-50 incorporates Type IV-A, IV-B, and IV-C mass timber heights up to 270 feet.
Do residential height limits come from state or local rules?
Single-family height in feet for zoning purposes is local. Construction-type maximum heights for life safety are set by the statewide building code.
Everett FAQ
What is the max height for a house?
Typically 35 feet or 2.5 stories in residential zones. Check Everett zoning code for your specific district.
Do chimneys count toward height?
Chimneys and similar projections are usually exempt up to a limited additional height above the roof.
Compare other topics
See how Edmonds and Everett 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