Height Limits: Renton vs Seattle
How do height limits rules compare between Renton, WA and Seattle, WA?
Renton and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
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 →Seattle, WA
King County
Under SMC 23.44.014, fences in single-family zones may be up to 6 ft solid in side/rear yards. Above 6 ft, fences must be predominantly open (50%+ open); total max is 8 ft. Front yard fences: max 4 ft in required setbacks. Fence + retaining wall combined max: 9.5 ft.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Renton | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard Max | 4 feet | - |
| Side/Rear Yard Max | 6 feet | - |
| Over 6 ft | Building permit required | - |
| Commercial | Up to 8 feet with approval | - |
| Sight Triangle | 42 in max at corners | - |
| Code | - | SMC 23.44.014 |
| Side/Rear (Solid) | - | Max 6 ft without permit |
| Total Max Height | - | 8 ft (above 6 ft must be 50%+ open) |
| Front Yard | - | Max 4 ft in required setbacks |
| Wall + Fence | - | Combined max 9.5 ft |
| Permit | - | Not required if ≤ 8 ft (no masonry over 6 ft) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Seattle FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Seattle?
Under SMC 23.44.014, fences in single-family zones may be up to 6 ft solid in side/rear yards. Above 6 ft, fences must be predominantly open (50%+ open); total max is 8 ft. Front yard fences: max 4 ft in required setbacks. Fence + retaining wall combined max: 9.5 ft.
What is the maximum fence height for front yards in Seattle?
Code: SMC 23.44.014. Side/Rear (Solid): Max 6 ft without permit. Total Max Height: 8 ft (above 6 ft must be 50%+ open). Front Yard: Max 4 ft in required setbacks.
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