Before You Build in Federal Way, WA: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)
Everything you need to know before starting a home improvement project
Building a fence, installing a pool, or adding a shed? Each project has its own set of local permits and rules in Federal Way. This guide consolidates fence, pool, ADU, shed, fire pit, and landscaping regulations into one checklist so you know what to expect before you start.
Quick Permit Checklist
At-a-glance overview of permit categories in Federal Way. Click any card for details.
Fences & Walls
5 rules on file
Swimming Pools
5 rules on file
ADUs & Granny Flats
2 rules on file
Sheds & Outbuildings
3 rules on file
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
2 rules on file
Landscaping & Tree Removal
3 rules on file
Fences & Walls
Heavy RestrictionsHeight limits, materials, permits, and shared fence rules.
Retaining Walls
Some RestrictionsRetaining walls over 4 feet tall require a building permit and engineering in Federal Way under IBC 1807. Walls with surcharge (driveway, pool) require permits at any height. Geohazard areas add review.
Pool Barriers
Heavy RestrictionsFederal Way requires a 4-foot minimum barrier around residential pools under IRC Appendix G and FWRC. Self-closing, self-latching gates required. Pools 24 inches deep or more trigger the barrier rule.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Few RestrictionsFederal Way does not mandate shared cost for boundary fences. Owners build on their own side of the line. Washington RCW 7.28 governs boundary disputes. Spite fences may be actionable under common law.
Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsFences 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.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsFederal Way allows fences up to 6 feet in residential side and rear yards and up to 4 feet in front yards under FWRC 19.125.160. Corner lot sight-triangle rules apply. Taller fences require permit review.
Swimming Pools
Heavy RestrictionsPool permits, safety fencing, and drainage requirements.
Pool Permits
Some RestrictionsFederal Way requires building permits for swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs deeper than 24 inches. Permits are issued by the Federal Way Community Development Permit Center under the WA State Building Code.
Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsFederal Way requires pool barriers at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates under IRC Appendix G. Barriers are mandatory for pools and spas deeper than 24 inches.
Above-Ground Pools
Some RestrictionsFederal Way requires permits and barriers for above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches. A pool wall at least 48 inches tall can serve as the barrier if the ladder is removable or locked.
Hot Tub Rules
Some RestrictionsFederal Way treats hot tubs and spas like pools under IRC Appendix G. Hot tubs with ASTM F1346 compliant lockable covers may be exempt from a perimeter barrier. Permits, GFCI, and NEC 680 bonding are required.
Safety Rules
Heavy RestrictionsFederal Way pool owners must comply with the federal VGB Act for anti-entrapment drains, GFCI electrical protection, and WAC 246-260 for public or semi-public pools. Private pools follow state building code.
ADUs & Granny Flats
Some RestrictionsAccessory dwelling unit rules and garage conversion permits.
ADU Rules
Few RestrictionsFederal Way allows up to 2 ADUs per single-family lot under FWRC 19.200/19.265, updated for WA HB 1337 (2023). Max 1,000 sq ft each, attached or detached. Owner-occupancy is no longer required.
Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsGarage conversions in Federal Way require building permits under FWRC 13.15 and 13.22. Habitable conversions trigger egress, insulation, smoke/CO, and utility permits. Conversions to ADUs are allowed under HB 1337.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Some RestrictionsShed permits, setback limits, and outbuilding size rules.
Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsCarports in Federal Way are accessory structures under FWRC Title 19 and generally need permits if over 200 sq ft. Setbacks, height, and lot-coverage apply. Fabric carports in front yards are often restricted.
Tiny Homes
Some RestrictionsFederal Way allows tiny homes on permanent foundations as ADUs or primary dwellings under FWRC 19.200 and 19.265. Tiny homes on wheels are RVs and cannot be permanent dwellings on residential lots.
Shed Rules
Few RestrictionsFederal Way exempts one-story sheds up to 200 sq ft from building permits under FWRC 13.15 and WAC 51-16-080. Larger sheds, electrical/plumbing work, or critical-area locations need permits. Zoning setbacks always apply.
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
Heavy RestrictionsFire pit placement, outdoor burning restrictions, and permits.
Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsFederal Way allows recreational fire pits under FWRC 13.31 (2021 IFC). Fires must be under 3 ft wide and 2 ft tall, use clean firewood, and be supervised with water nearby. Burn bans override local rules.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsOutdoor burning of yard debris and land-clearing waste is prohibited year-round in Federal Way under PSCAA Regulation I. Only small recreational fires under FWRC 13.31 are allowed, subject to burn bans.
Landscaping & Tree Removal
Heavy RestrictionsTree removal permits, heritage tree protections, and water rules.
Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsFederal Way tree trimming is governed by FWRC 19.120 and 4.35. Routine pruning needs no permit, but heavy pruning or topping of a significant tree that removes over 25% of canopy may count as removal.
Water Restrictions
Few RestrictionsLakehaven Water and Sewer District serves Federal Way and promotes voluntary conservation year-round. No standing odd/even watering days. Mandatory restrictions apply only during declared drought emergencies.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Heavy RestrictionsFederal Way regulates tree removal under FWRC 19.120. Any tree 6 inches DBH or larger generally needs approval and must meet Tree Units per Acre standards in Table 19.120.130-1. Smaller trees may be exempt.
General Permit Tips
When do you typically need a permit?
Most cities require permits for structural work, including fences over a certain height, pools, ADUs, and sheds above a size threshold. Even projects that seem minor can trigger permit requirements, so it is always best to check first.
How to apply for a building permit
Visit your local building department or their website. Most jurisdictions accept online applications. You will typically need a site plan, project description, and may need contractor information. Processing times vary from same-day for simple projects to several weeks for larger builds.
Common permit violations to avoid
Building without a permit, exceeding approved dimensions, and ignoring setback requirements are the most common violations. Penalties can include fines, required removal of the structure, and complications when selling your home.
Permit Guides for Nearby Cities
Looking for rules beyond permits? View all ordinances we track for Federal Way.