Height Limits: Puyallup vs Tacoma
How do height limits rules compare between Puyallup, WA and Tacoma, WA?
Puyallup and Tacoma have similar restriction levels.
Puyallup, WA
Pierce County
In Puyallup residential zones, front yard fences within 20 feet of the property line are limited to 3½ feet. Side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet. Open-wire, chain-link, or similar fences in front yards may be up to 5 feet. PMC Chapter 20.20 governs single-family zones.
View full Puyallup rules →Tacoma, WA
Pierce County
Tacoma regulates fence heights by yard location. Front yard fences are typically limited to 4 feet. Side and rear yard fences may be up to 6–7 feet. Fences up to 7 feet are exempt from building permits.
View full Tacoma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Puyallup | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard Max | 3½ feet (5 ft for open-wire) | - |
| Side/Rear Max | 6 feet | - |
| Property Line | Fence may be built on the line | - |
| Code | PMC Ch. 20.20, 20.25 | - |
| Front Yard | - | 4 feet typical |
| Side/Rear Yard | - | 6–7 feet |
| Permit Exempt | - | Fences 7 feet or less |
| Corner Lots | - | Visibility restrictions apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Puyallup FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Puyallup?
In Puyallup residential zones, front yard fences within 20 feet of the property line are limited to 3½ feet. Side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet. Open-wire, chain-link, or similar fences in front yards may be up to 5 feet. PMC Chapter 20.20 governs single-family zones.
What is the maximum fence height for front yards in Puyallup?
Front Yard Max: 3½ feet (5 ft for open-wire). Side/Rear Max: 6 feet. Property Line: Fence may be built on the line. Code: PMC Ch. 20.20, 20.25.
Tacoma FAQ
How tall can a fence be in Tacoma?
Typically 4 feet in the front yard and 6–7 feet in side and rear yards. Fences 7 feet or less are exempt from building permits.
Are there visibility rules for fences on Tacoma corner lots?
Yes. Corner lots have a visibility triangle where fences must be lower to preserve sight lines for drivers and pedestrians.
Can I build a fence taller than 7 feet in Tacoma?
Yes, but it will require a building permit and zoning review. Most residential zones cap fence height at 6–7 feet regardless of permit.
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