Kirkland, WA Fence Regulations: Fence Requirements (2026)

A Kirkland-compliant residential fence must satisfy several overlapping requirements. First, KZC 115.40 caps height at 6 feet in most locations, 3.5 feet in front yards on collector or access streets, and 30 inches in sight-distance triangles at intersections and driveways. Second, fences within 15 feet of a street curb cannot exceed code-specified lower heights. Third, building permits are required only for fences over 6 feet and for retaining walls over 4 feet. Fourth, shoreline overlay districts along Lake Washington (Moss Bay, Yarrow Bay, Houghton Beach) impose additional transparency and habitat-friendly fence rules under the Kirkland Shoreline Master Program. Fifth, critical area buffers around wetlands, Juanita Creek, Forbes Creek, and steep slopes restrict fences to habitat-compatible materials and placements. Sixth, electrified and barbed wire fencing is prohibited in residential zones. Seventh, fences in public rights-of-way require a Right-of-Way Use Permit. Finished sides should typically face outward toward neighbors though not strictly mandated. HOAs can add stricter private rules.