Bellingham, WA Fence Regulations: Fence Requirements (2026)

BMC 20.30.110 (Fences) is the core land-use fence section: it sets the in-yard height limits (54 inches front interior lot, 42 inches front corner lot or flanking-street side yard, 72 inches interior side/rear, 36 inches inside the vision clearance triangle), describes how height is measured ('from the ground level adjacent to the outside edge of the wall or fence' and 'when fences are constructed on top of walls, both are included in the calculation of height'), explains that fences outside a required yard are subject to the structure-height limits of the zoning district, and provides the administrative exception process (site plan with all buildings within 50 feet, illustrative drawing showing material and proposed height; planning and public works directors must find no detriment to view/light/air or traffic safety). BMC 20.12.060 (Vision Clearance Triangle) sets the 20-foot/20-foot triangle and 36-inch cap. BMC 20.10.080 (Yards) defines the required yards used to apply BMC 20.30.110. BMC 17.10.020 (Construction Administrative Code) carries the IRC/IBC permit exemption for fences not over 8 feet without masonry/concrete elements above 6 feet. The City of Bellingham Permit Center publication 'Fences, Walls and Hedges' confirms that 'fences and walls located within land use setbacks have height restrictions set by the land use code that require compliance even if a building permit is not required.' Title 20 does not adopt a 'finished side' rule.