Permit Requirements: Federal Way vs Redmond
How do permit requirements rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Redmond, WA?
Federal Way and Redmond 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 →Redmond, WA
King County
Standard residential fences up to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 4 feet in front yards do not require a building permit in Redmond. Permits are needed for taller fences, masonry, or pool barriers.
View full Redmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Fence | No permit up to 6 ft | - |
| Over 6 feet | Permit required | - |
| Retaining Wall | Permit over 4 ft | Permit over 4 ft |
| Permit Center | (253) 835-2607 | - |
| No Permit Up To | - | 6 ft side/rear, 4 ft front |
| Permit Required | - | Over 6 ft, pool barrier |
| Apply | - | Redmond ePermit |
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.
Redmond FAQ
Do I need a permit for a wood privacy fence?
Not if it is 6 feet or shorter in a side or rear yard. Permits are required for taller fences, masonry walls, or pool barriers.
How do I apply for a fence permit in Redmond?
Submit through the Redmond ePermit portal at redmond.gov. Expect review within about two weeks for standard residential projects.
Compare other topics
See how Federal Way and Redmond 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