Pierce County, WA Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Fence permit exempt
- 6 feet or under
- Wall permit exempt
- 4 feet or under
- Permit code
- PCC 17C.30.040
- Issuing agency
- Planning & Public Works
Summary
A building permit is not required for fences 6 feet or under in unincorporated Pierce County. Fences taller than 6 feet require a building permit and must meet setbacks. Retaining walls over 4 feet also need a permit under the county's adopted residential building code.
Section R105.2 of the International Residential Code is amended as follows: ... 2. Fences not over six feet (1829 mm) high. 3. Retaining walls that are not over four feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.
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
Pierce County adopts the International Residential Code in PCC Chapter 17C. PCC 17C.30.040 amends IRC Section R105.2 to exempt fences not over 6 feet high and retaining walls not over 4 feet high (measured bottom of footing to top, unless supporting a surcharge). Anything taller requires a building permit from Pierce County Planning & Public Works. Zoning rules in PCC 18A.15.040 still apply regardless of permit status. Cities within the county issue their own fence permits under their own codes.
Violations & Fines
Building a fence over 6 feet or a retaining wall over 4 feet without the required permit is a code violation and may require a permit after the fact, corrections, or removal. Fines escalate for uncorrected work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a fence in Pierce County?
Do retaining walls need a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pierce County
Compare Pierce County to another location·View the Washington fence regulations overview
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