Before You Build in Spokane Valley, 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 Spokane Valley. 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 Spokane Valley. Click any card for details.
Fences & Walls
Some RestrictionsHeight limits, materials, permits, and shared fence rules.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsUnder SVMC 22.70.020, residential fences in the front yard are limited to 3 feet if sight-obstructing, or 4 feet if non-sight-obstructing (such as chain link). Fences in side and rear yards may be up to 7 feet without a permit, and 7 to 8 feet only with a building permit and engineering.
Permit Requirements
Few RestrictionsA standard residential fence in Spokane Valley does not require a building permit. Under SVMC 22.70.020 and the city's Fence Installation Guidelines, fences up to 7 feet in residential side/rear yards need no permit; only fences over 7 feet (up to 8 feet) require a building permit and engineering.
Swimming Pools
Pool permits, safety fencing, and drainage requirements.
No specific swimming pools rules found for Spokane Valley. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
ADUs & Granny Flats
Accessory dwelling unit rules and garage conversion permits.
No specific adus & granny flats rules found for Spokane Valley. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Shed permits, setback limits, and outbuilding size rules.
No specific sheds & outbuildings rules found for Spokane Valley. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
Heavy RestrictionsFire pit placement, outdoor burning restrictions, and permits.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsResidential outdoor burning of yard and garden debris is not allowed in Spokane Valley. Outdoor burning in the city is regulated by the Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency (SRCAA) and the Spokane Valley Fire Department, and yard-debris burning is prohibited; only recreational fires with approved fuel are permitted, subject to seasonal burn restrictions.
Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsRecreational fires (fire pits, chimineas, portable fireplaces) are allowed in Spokane Valley with approved fuel, when no burn restriction is in effect. Regional fire-marshal guidance limits recreational fires to a fuel area no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high, attended by an adult with extinguishing equipment ready.
Landscaping & Tree Removal
Tree removal permits, heritage tree protections, and water rules.
No specific landscaping & tree removal rules found for Spokane Valley. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
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.
Looking for rules beyond permits? View all ordinances we track for Spokane Valley.