Kennewick, WA Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Kennewick's permit treatment of fences follows the Washington State Building Code (WAC 51-50, adopting the IBC) and the city's zoning ordinance. Under IBC Section 105.2 as adopted, fences not over 6 feet in height are exempt from a building permit; however, zoning compliance (KMC Chapter 18.27) and sight-distance compliance still apply, and the property owner is responsible for verifying compliance before installation. Fences over 6 feet, fences acting as required pool barriers (see swimming-pools/fencing-requirements), retaining walls over 4 feet, and fences in commercial or industrial site-plan situations do require a building permit from the Kennewick Building Division. A typical application includes (1) a completed permit form, (2) a plot plan or survey showing fence location, distance to property lines, and any easements, (3) proposed height and materials, and (4) for pool barriers, gate hardware specifications meeting WAC 51-50 / IBC Appendix G or ISPSC. The 'finished' (smooth) side of the fence should face outward toward the neighbor under standard Kennewick practice and the Kennewick fence guidelines handout. Property owners are responsible for verifying lot lines; the city does not survey private property. Permit applications proposing over-height fences, fences in corner sight triangles, or fences in front of required setback lines are referred for administrative variance review under KMC Title 18.