Spokane County, WA Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Approved materials list?
- No general list required
- Fence type matters
- Sight vs non-sight-obscuring
- Hedges in lieu of fence
- Allowed
- Restricted materials
- Barbed wire, electric fence
- Code section
- SCC 14.812.100
Summary
Spokane County's zoning code does not mandate a specific fence material for standard residential fences, but it distinguishes sight-obscuring from non-sight-obscuring fences and allows hedges or shrubbery in lieu of a fence. Electric and barbed wire fencing are separately restricted.
Hedges, shrubbery, or other materials serving the same function as a fence may be used in lieu of a fence, provided they are not a part of the required landscaping.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 63).
Full Breakdown
SCC 14.812.100 regulates fences by function rather than dictating an approved materials list for ordinary residential fences. Height limits differ for 'sight-obscuring' versus 'non-sight-obscuring' fences in front and flanking-street yards (3 feet vs 4 feet). The code allows hedges, shrubbery, or other materials serving the same function as a fence to be used in lieu of a fence, provided they are not part of the required landscaping. Electric fences (outside urban growth areas, animal confinement only) and barbed wire (banned in residential/mixed-use zones) are the specifically restricted materials. All fences must still satisfy the clear view triangle. Cities within the county may impose their own material rules.
Violations & Fines
Non-compliant restricted materials (barbed wire or electric fencing where prohibited) must be removed; standard material choices are otherwise unrestricted by the county zoning code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a hedge instead of a fence?
Does the county require a specific fence material?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Spokane County
Compare Spokane County to another location·View the Washington fence regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.