Permit Requirements: Federal Way vs Kirkland
How do permit requirements rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Federal Way and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Fences up to 6 feet in residential zones do not require a permit in Federal Way. Fences over 6 feet, retaining walls over 4 feet, and critical area or shoreline fences require permits.
View full Federal Way 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 | Federal Way | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Fence | No permit up to 6 ft | - |
| Over 6 feet | Permit required | - |
| Retaining Wall | Permit over 4 ft | - |
| Permit Center | (253) 835-2607 | - |
| Permit Trigger | - | Fence over 6 ft |
| Retaining Walls | - | Over 4 ft needs permit |
| Electric and Barbed | - | Prohibited residential |
| Apply At | - | MyBuildingPermit.com |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot fence in Federal Way?
No, standard residential fences 6 feet or shorter do not require a building permit, but must comply with zoning setbacks and sight triangles.
Does a Federal Way retaining wall need a permit?
Retaining walls over 4 feet tall require a building permit with engineering calculations. Shorter walls may not, unless they support a surcharge.
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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