Pierce County, WA Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Max height
- 6 feet in setback
- Height includes
- barbed wire, attachments
- On a berm
- measured from high side
- Cite
- PCC 18A.15.040.B.2.d
Summary
Fences in unincorporated Pierce County may be placed within required setbacks up to 6 feet without a permit, must be measured from the adjacent ground including all attachments, and must preserve corner and driveway sight distance under Title 17B PCC. Cities set their own separate requirements.
The height of a fence shall be measured from a point on the ground immediately adjacent to the fence to the top of the fence. The height of a fence located on a rockery, retaining wall, or berm shall be measured from the ground on the high side of the rockery, retaining wall, or berm.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-515, and legislation passed through May 26, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under PCC 18A.15.040.B.2.d, fences and retaining walls are allowed within required yard setbacks to a 6-foot maximum (8 feet for qualifying security fencing). Height is measured from the point on the ground immediately adjacent to the fence to the top, and the top includes all attachments, ornamentation, and security devices such as barbed wire. Where a fence sits on a rockery, retaining wall, or berm, height is measured from the high side. Fences must not obstruct required intersection sight distance under Title 17B PCC. A building permit is only needed when a fence exceeds 6 feet.
Violations & Fines
Fences over 6 feet without a permit, or fences that violate sight-distance standards, are code violations subject to correction orders and possible fines until brought into compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a fence on a wall or berm measured?
Does the height include barbed wire on top?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pierce County
How Pierce County compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Compare Pierce County to another location·View the Washington fence regulations overview
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