Kirkland, WA Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Kirkland follows the Washington State Building Code and International Residential Code thresholds. Residential fences 6 feet or less in height that comply with KZC 115.40 height and setback rules do not require a building permit. Any fence exceeding 6 feet (in locations where the underlying zoning allows it, typically outside required yards and within the zone structure-height limit) requires a residential building permit with structural review. Retaining walls require a permit whenever the exposed face is more than 4 feet high measured from the bottom of the footing to the top, or when the wall supports a surcharge (such as a driveway) regardless of height. Combined fence-and-wall systems over the 6-foot combined limit in required yards also need review. Electrified fences and barbed wire are prohibited in residential zones. Fences in shoreline overlay or critical area buffers (steep slopes, wetlands, streams along Juanita Creek and Forbes Creek) require separate Shoreline or Critical Areas review. Apply through MyBuildingPermit.com.