Seattle's Land Use Code allows residential lawn ornaments, statuary, and yard art without permits provided structures do not exceed accessory-structure height limits in SMC 23.44.014 (typically 12 feet) and do not encroach into the public right-of-way. Signs with messaging are regulated by SMC 23.55, and HOA architectural review still applies to condominiums.
Free-standing ornaments under 6 feet tall and not anchored to a foundation are not regulated structures under the Seattle Building Code. Larger ornaments count as accessory structures under SMC 23.44.041 and must comply with side and rear setbacks (5 ft sides / 25 ft rear in Neighborhood Residential zones) and the 12-foot accessory-structure height limit. Encroachment of ornaments into the public sidewalk or planting strip is prohibited under SMC 15.04 (Street Use); permitted in-strip placement requires a Street Use Permit from SDOT ($165 application). Political signs are addressed in SMC 23.55.005 — limited to 18 sq ft total in single-family zones, no time restriction (per Reed v. Town of Gilbert/SCOTUS). Religious displays have constitutional protection but viewpoint-neutral size and setback rules still apply. HOAs control display rules through CC&Rs.
Encroachment into the right-of-way under SMC 15.04 triggers a removal order and fines starting at $250. Oversized accessory structures or political signs cited under SMC 23.90 with civil penalties of $150-$500 per day. Right-of-way obstructions can be removed by SDOT at owner expense.
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