Kent, WA Holiday Decorations: Lawn Ornament Rules (2026)

Kent City Code does not include a yard-ornament ordinance. Statuary, garden gnomes, flagpoles, decorative rocks, planters, fountains, and similar items on private property are unregulated as to size, color, or quantity by the city. The only city limits come from generally applicable rules: items must sit within the zoning district's setbacks under KCC Title 15; items may not encroach into the public right-of-way (sidewalks, planter strips, and alleys) under KCC Title 6; fences, walls, and screening structures over 6 feet require permits under KCC Title 14 even if ornamental; flagpoles over 35 feet may require a building permit under the Washington State Building Code (WAC 51-50); lighting on ornaments must not cause glare onto neighbors or roadways; and sight-distance triangles at driveways and corners must remain clear under the Public Works Engineering Standards. Properties in Kent's shoreline jurisdiction along the Green River, Mill Creek, Lake Meridian, or Lake Fenwick must additionally comply with the Shoreline Master Program under KCC Title 15. Properties in the Green River floodplain are also subject to KCC Chapter 14.09 (Flood Hazard Regulations) for items that could obstruct flood flow. HOA covenants often impose private restrictions on ornament style and count, enforceable in civil court rather than by the city.