Fence Requirements: Kirkland vs Redmond
How do fence requirements rules compare between Kirkland, WA and Redmond, WA?
Kirkland and Redmond have similar restriction levels.
Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland fences must meet KZC 115.40 height limits, sight triangles, and setbacks. Fences 6 feet or shorter need no permit, but shoreline and critical-area buffers require extra review.
View full Kirkland rules →Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond fences must meet RMC 21.54 standards on height, setback, sight triangle, and material. Finished side typically faces neighbor, posts set below frost line, and HOAs may add style rules.
View full Redmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kirkland | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Height | 6 ft most locations | - |
| Permit Trigger | Over 6 ft | - |
| Banned Materials | Barbed and electric | - |
| Code | KZC 115.40 | - |
| Finished Side | - | Faces neighbor |
| Post Footing | - | Below frost line |
| Barbed Wire | - | Banned in residential |
| ROW | - | Encroachment permit needed |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kirkland FAQ
What are Kirkland basic fence requirements?
Keep residential fences at 6 feet or less, stay outside sight-distance triangles, avoid electric or barbed wire, and check shoreline and critical-area overlays if you are near water or a steep slope.
Does the fence finished side need to face my neighbor?
Kirkland code does not strictly require the finished side to face outward, but it is the customary neighborly practice and many HOAs require it.
Redmond FAQ
Which side of the fence faces my neighbor?
The finished (smooth) side must face outward toward the neighbor or street unless both parties agree otherwise in writing.
Can I put a fence in a salmon stream buffer?
Only after a Critical Area Review through Redmond Planning. Sammamish River and Bear Creek buffer fences must protect salmon habitat.
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