Height Limits: Federal Way vs Renton
How do height limits rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Renton, WA?
Federal Way and Renton 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 →Renton, WA
King County
Fences in Renton may be up to 4 feet tall in front yards and 6 feet tall in side and rear yards under RMC 4-4-040, with additional restrictions near street intersections and clear sight triangles at driveways.
View full Renton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| Rear/Side Yard Max | 6 feet | - |
| Front Yard Max | 4 feet | 4 feet |
| Sight Triangle | 3 ft at corners | 42 in max at corners |
| Permit Above | 6 feet | - |
| Side/Rear Yard Max | - | 6 feet |
| Over 6 ft | - | Building permit required |
| Commercial | - | Up to 8 feet with approval |
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).
Renton FAQ
Can I build a 7-foot fence in Renton?
Yes, with a building permit. Fences taller than six feet require engineered plans demonstrating wind load resistance and compliance with the structural code.
What is a sight triangle?
A triangular area at street corners and driveway entrances where fences, hedges, and signs must remain under 42 inches to preserve driver visibility.
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