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.
SMC 23.44.014 governs fence heights in Seattle's Neighborhood Residential zones. Solid fences: max 6 ft side/rear without permit; above 6 ft must be predominantly open (lattice, spaced slats, etc.); total height (including decorative tops) capped at 8 ft. Front yard: max 4 ft. Retaining wall + fence combined: max 9.5 ft. Fence heights over 8 ft or masonry over 6 ft require a permit.
First offense: $150 fine. Subsequent violations: $500. SDCI stop-work orders for non-compliant construction.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle height limits.
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