Before You Build in Edmonds, WA: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Fence height limits are set by Edmonds Community Development Code Ch. 17.30. In general, fences up to 6 ft are allowed in rear and side yards; front yard fences are limited to 4 ft. A decorative trellis may add up to 2 ft, for a maximum of 8 ft. Fences over 6 ft must comply with the applicable building setback.

Residential swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas in Edmonds must comply with the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) adopted at ECDC 19.35.000 and the 2021 International Residential Code Appendix AG, both adopted statewide under RCW 19.27.031 (WAC 51-51, WAC 51-50). The baseline residential barrier is at least 48 inches high, with self-closing/self-latching gates and openings that will not pass a 4-inch sphere. Public and semi-public pools (apartments, hotels, schools) are regulated by Snohomish Health Department under WAC 246-260-031. Edmonds also caps fence height at six feet under ECDC 17.30.000, and pool/spa structures must meet the accessory-structure setbacks of the underlying zoning district under Title 16 ECDC.

Edmonds City Council adopted an ADU code update on June 11, 2024, complying with state HB 1337. Up to 2 ADUs (attached and/or detached) are allowed per single-family lot. Maximum ADU size: 1,200 sq ft. Maximum height: 24 ft. No owner-occupancy requirement. Impact fees capped at 50% of principal unit. Building permit required.

Garage conversions to living space or ADUs require a building permit under WAC 51-50 and ECDC. Conversions must meet all applicable zoning, energy code, and habitability standards. HB 1337 (2023) facilitates garage-to-ADU conversions with relaxed requirements for impact fees and design.

Sheds and detached accessory structures in Edmonds must comply with ECDC zoning setbacks and the Washington State Building Code (WAC 51-50). Permit requirements depend on size; small structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt from a full building permit but still must meet setback requirements.

Outdoor burning is banned within Edmonds city limits under ECC §5.22.030. This includes debris fires, yard waste burning, and burn barrels. Recreational fires in fire pits, chimineas, and fire bowls are allowed under Puget Sound Clean Air Agency rules. WAC 173-425 governs regional burning seasons. Illegal fires may incur fines starting at $2,000.

Recreational fire pits in Edmonds are allowed as small recreational fires under fire code: under 3 ft diameter, 25 ft from structures, constantly attended with water nearby, dry wood only. Prohibited during any active burn ban.

Tree removal in Edmonds is governed by the Edmonds Community Development Code (ECDC) critical areas and tree retention provisions. Significant trees in critical areas or associated with development require a tree removal permit. Street trees are protected under city code; contact Public Works for removal requests.