Height Limits: Federal Way vs Kent
How do height limits rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kent, WA?
Federal Way and Kent have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way allows fences up to 6 feet in residential side and rear yards and up to 4 feet in front yards under FWRC 19.125.160. Corner lot sight-triangle rules apply. Taller fences require permit review.
View full Federal Way rules →Kent, WA
King County
Kent limits front yard fences to 4 feet and side and rear yard fences to 6 feet under KCC 15.08. Fences over 6 feet require a building permit and structural review.
View full Kent rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| Rear/Side Yard Max | 6 feet | - |
| Front Yard Max | 4 feet | - |
| Sight Triangle | 3 ft at corners | - |
| Permit Above | 6 feet | - |
| Front Yard | - | 4 feet maximum |
| Side and Rear | - | 6 feet maximum |
| Over 6 Feet | - | Permit required |
| Clear Sight Corner | - | 30 inches within 10 ft |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
How tall can my Federal Way backyard fence be?
Up to 6 feet in rear and side yards without a permit. Taller fences require a building permit under FWRC 19.125.160.
Can I put a solid 6-foot fence in my front yard in Federal Way?
No. Front yard fences are limited to 4 feet. Fences taller than 3 feet in front yards must be at least 50 percent open (picket style).
Kent FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Kent?
4 feet in the front yard and 6 feet in side and rear yards. Anything over 6 feet requires a building permit under KCC 15.08.
Are barbed wire fences legal in Kent?
Only in industrial and agricultural zones. Residential barbed wire or electric fences are prohibited under KCC 15.08.
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