Seattle allows front yard food gardens and edible landscaping. The city actively encourages urban agriculture through P-Patch community gardens and residential food production. No permit is needed for front yard gardens that comply with vegetation height limits.
Seattle is one of the most permissive cities for front yard gardening and urban agriculture. The city actively encourages food production through its P-Patch Community Gardening Program and allows residential food gardens in all zones. Front yard gardens are permitted without any special permit as long as vegetation does not encroach on public sidewalks or rights-of-way under SMC 10.52. Raised beds, trellises, and garden structures under 8 feet do not require building permits. Seattle's zoning code allows urban farms and community gardens in residential zones under SMC 23.42.051. The city also permits keeping small animals (chickens, goats) for urban agriculture. Seattle's Department of Neighborhoods manages the P-Patch program with over 90 community gardens citywide. Property owners should ensure gardens do not obstruct sight lines at intersections and keep plantings at or below 42 inches within sight triangles at corners.
No penalty for front yard gardens. Vegetation encroaching on right-of-way: $150 first offense under SMC 10.52.
Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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See how Seattle's front yard gardens rules stack up against other locations.
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