Permit Requirements: Kirkland vs Seattle
How do permit requirements rules compare between Kirkland, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kirkland and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
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 →Seattle, WA
King County
Unincorporated King County requires a permit for fences over 6 ft tall and retaining walls over 4 ft. Fences at or under 6 ft usually need no permit but must meet setback and critical-area rules.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kirkland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Trigger | Fence over 6 ft | - |
| Retaining Walls | Over 4 ft needs permit | - |
| Electric and Barbed | Prohibited residential | - |
| Apply At | MyBuildingPermit.com | - |
| Permit Threshold | - | Over 6 ft tall |
| Retaining Wall | - | Permit over 4 ft |
| Code | - | KCC Title 16 and 21A |
| Department | - | Permitting Division |
| Critical Areas | - | Extra review (Title 21A.24) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Seattle FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot wood fence in unincorporated King County?
Generally no. Fences 6 feet or less in height typically do not require a building permit, but they must still meet zoning setbacks and any critical-area rules under KCC Title 21A.
Who issues fence permits for unincorporated King County?
The King County Department of Local Services, Permitting Division at 206-296-6600. Applications require a site plan and, for tall fences, structural details.
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