Fences up to 6 feet in residential zones do not require a permit in Federal Way. Fences over 6 feet, retaining walls over 4 feet, and critical area or shoreline fences require permits.
Federal Way Community Development handles fence permits under FWRC Title 19 and the International Building Code. Residential fences 6 feet or shorter in height do not require a separate building permit, though they must comply with zoning standards (setbacks, sight triangles, material restrictions). Fences over 6 feet tall require a building permit and typically must be engineered to withstand wind loads per IBC. Retaining walls over 4 feet in height (measured from bottom of footing to top of wall) require a permit and engineering calculations. Fences in shoreline management areas (Mirror Lake, Steel Lake, North Lake, Hylebos Wetlands, Puget Sound shore) require Shoreline Substantial Development Permits or exemptions. Fences in wetland, stream, or geologically hazardous critical areas require critical area review. HOAs in subdivisions like Twin Lakes, Brittany Lane, and others often impose additional architectural review requirements beyond the city code. Call Federal Way Permit Center at (253) 835-2607.
Unpermitted fences over 6 feet or in critical areas can be ordered removed at owner expense. Fines up to $500 per day until cured.
Federal Way, WA
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Federal Way, WA
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Federal Way, WA
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Federal Way, WA
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Federal Way, WA
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Federal Way, WA
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