Fence Regulations in Cowlitz County, WA (2026)
1 rule for unincorporated Cowlitz County, Washington.
Verified from official government sources
Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Cowlitz County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.
Retaining Walls
In unincorporated Cowlitz County, a retaining wall built under a valid building permit is exempt from the county's separate grading permit under Cowlitz County Code § 16.35.050(P), but only up to an unsupported height of five feet. Taller walls lose the exemption and need a grading permit through the Department of Building and Planning.
Cowlitz County Retaining Wall Permit Rule
Some RestrictionsCowlitz County Code § 16.35.050(P)
P. An excavation below finished grade for basements and footings of a building, retaining wall or other structure authorized by a valid building permit. This shall not exempt any fill made with the material from such excavation or exempt any excavation having an unsupported height greater than five feet after the completion of such structure.
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