Pop. 65,064 · Pierce County
Commercial vehicle parking on residential streets in Lakewood is restricted by city code. Vehicles may not obstruct traffic or create nuisances. Washington State commercial vehicle regulations also apply.
Abandoned vehicles in Lakewood are subject to code enforcement as a nuisance. Lakewood Police Department handles abandoned vehicle reports for public streets; city code enforcement for private property.
Lakewood street parking is governed by city traffic codes consistent with Washington State law. Standard rules apply regarding curb distance, fire hydrant clearance, and intersection proximity. Long-term street parking of vehicles is restricted.
RV and camper storage on residential property in Lakewood is subject to city zoning standards. Long-term RV habitation on private property requires compliance with Pierce County standards (120-day limit without approval). Street parking of RVs is restricted.
Unincorporated Pierce County has no blanket overnight on-street parking ban; state law RCW 46.61.570 governs where vehicles may stand, and a vehicle left too long may be tagged and impounded under RCW 46.55. Overnight living in an RV on a residential lot requires a Temporary Use Permit. Cities set their
Pierce County requires new development in unincorporated areas to provide electric vehicle charging infrastructure under PCC 18A.35.040, following Table 18A.35.040-3 for EV charging stations, EV-Ready, and EV-Capable spaces. Equipment must meet RCW Chapter 19.28 and NEC Article 625, with exceptions for small parking areas and sites without power.
Loading and unloading on public roads in unincorporated Pierce County follows Washington's RCW 46.61.570, which allows parking for loading only temporarily while actually loading or unloading, and bars parking within 50 feet of a railroad crossing. Off-street loading facilities for development are set by the Title 18A zoning code. Cities
In unincorporated Pierce County, curb colors and no-parking markings are established by the County, not private residents. Under RCW 46.61.570, parking restrictions are effective only when set by official signs or markings, and parking limits are imposed by county resolution. Residents may not paint public curbs to reserve parking. Cities
Driveway and access standards in unincorporated Pierce County are set by the Title 18A zoning and off-street parking code (PCC 18A.35.040), with associated design standards in Title 18J. On public roads, RCW 46.61.570 bars parking in front of a driveway or within five feet of the curb radius leading to
Unincorporated Pierce County regulates oversized and large-vehicle storage through the Title 18A zoning code and the Chapter 8.08 nuisance provisions rather than a single size cap. A wrecked, dismantled, or derelict oversized vehicle is a public nuisance under PCC 8.08.050. On public roads, RCW 46.61.570 placement rules apply. Cities impose
Lakewood prohibits noise that disturbs the peace under LMC Chapter 8.36 (Noise Control). Residential quiet hours are 10 PM–7 AM weekdays and 10 PM–9 AM weekends. Civil penalty up to $250 for first offense; up to $500 for repeat within 2 years.
Construction noise in Lakewood is restricted to weekday hours of 7 AM–10 PM and weekend/holiday hours of 9 AM–10 PM under the LMC Chapter 8.36 noise control provisions (exemptions schedule). Sound from construction must not be audible beyond 50 feet outside of permitted hours.
Lakewood prohibits frequent, repetitive, or continuous animal sounds that disturb the peace under LMC Chapter 8.36. Excessive barking is a noise control violation. Complaints are handled by Lakewood Police and/or Pierce County Animal Control.
Lakewood has no local aircraft noise ordinance. Aircraft operations at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) adjacent to Lakewood are governed by federal law and military authority. FAA regulations apply to all civil aviation.
Pierce County has no leaf-blower-specific ordinance. In unincorporated areas, gas leaf blowers fall under the general Chapter 8.76 decibel limits and the Chapter 8.72 public disturbance rule. Residential yard maintenance is exempt from decibel limits 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Washington has no statewide gas-blower ban.
For most industrial noise, Pierce County defers to the State. PCC 8.72.120.D states that, apart from motor vehicles, industrial-area noise is regulated by the State of Washington. The Chapter 8.76 EDNA table still caps industrial (Class C) source noise at 60-70 dBA at the receiver, with exemptions for established operations.
In unincorporated Pierce County, outdoor amplified music, band sessions, and social-gathering noise are barred by PCC 8.72.090.F when loud, raucous, and disturbing to neighbors, at any hour. Officially sanctioned parades and public events are exempt from the decibel limits (PCC 8.76.070.D.8). Cities permit outdoor events under their own codes.
In unincorporated Pierce County, PCC 8.72.090.F makes loud and raucous amplified sound - from an instrument, amplifier, band session, tavern, or social gathering - a public disturbance noise when it frequently or continuously disturbs neighbors. It applies at any hour and is enforced by the Sheriff on complaint.
In unincorporated Pierce County, PCC 8.72.090.H makes it unlawful for a car or vessel sound system to be clearly heard 50 feet or more from the vehicle in residential or commercial areas. Frequent engine, horn, or off-road-vehicle noise is also barred (PCC 8.72.090.B-C). Vehicle-in-motion noise follows WAC 173-62.
In unincorporated Pierce County, PCC 8.76.060 adopts Washington's WAC 173-60 decibel table: for a residential (Class A) source and receiver the daytime limit is 55 dBA, dropping 10 dBA to roughly 45 dBA between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Limits rise for commercial and industrial property.
Lakewood is in Pierce County, which is subject to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) burn regulations and Washington State DNR fire safety rules. Lakewood's residential areas are primarily urban — no WUI brush clearance mandate. During Stage 2 burn bans, all outdoor burning is prohibited.
Lakewood is an urban city with limited wildfire-urban interface areas. Pierce County has some WUI zones in eastern areas. Lakewood's McChord Greenway area has some forested land. Washington DNR manages wildfire risk under RCW 76.04 (forest fire protection).
Outdoor burning of yard debris in Lakewood is prohibited within city limits. Burn permits are not issued within urban growth boundaries per Puget Sound Clean Air Agency rules. Recreational fires on private property are allowed with restrictions. Burn barrels are always illegal.
Consumer fireworks are permitted in Lakewood on July 4 only, from 11 AM to 11 PM, on private property under LMC Chapter 8.68. Dangerous fireworks are prohibited year-round. Discharge on school grounds, parks, or rights-of-way is banned. Sales are allowed June 28–July 4. Fines reach $2,650.
Recreational fire pits on private property in Lakewood are permitted consistent with Pierce County and PSCA recreational fire standards. Fires must use only charcoal or dried firewood, stay under 3 feet in diameter, and be attended at all times. Burn barrels are illegal.
Propane (LPG) storage in Pierce County follows the adopted International Fire Code and NFPA 58 through the Fire Prevention Bureau. Larger tank installs need a permit, and tanks must meet setback and clearance rules from buildings and property lines.
Backyard recreational fires are allowed in Pierce County without a permit, but only small fires burning clean wood or charcoal. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency caps them at three feet across, and all fires stop during seasonal burn bans.
Washington law (RCW 43.44.110) requires smoke detection devices in all dwelling units. In Pierce County rentals, the landlord must install and ensure working alarms at move-in, while tenants handle battery upkeep. Fines apply for violations.
Residential swimming pools in Lakewood must be enclosed by a barrier meeting the 2021 International Residential Code Appendix AG (Section AG105) and the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC), both adopted by reference at LMC 15.05.020 through Washington's statewide code (RCW 19.27.031, WAC 51-51). General-use and limited-use public/community pools also follow WAC 246-260-031 (Washington DOH), requiring 60 to 72-inch barriers, self-closing/self-latching gates, and restricted openings. Fences not exceeding 6 feet in height generally do not need a separate zoning permit under LMC Title 18A, but a building permit is required for the pool itself.
In unincorporated Pierce County, a building permit from Planning & Public Works (PPW) is required to construct an in-ground or above-ground residential pool, spa, or hot tub, because Washington enforces the 2021 International Residential Code through the State Building Code, WAC 51-51.
Above-ground pools in unincorporated Pierce County follow the same rules as in-ground pools: prefabricated pools less than 24 inches deep are exempt, but any above-ground pool holding water over 24 inches deep needs a permit and a compliant 48-inch barrier under 2021 IRC Appendix G.
Residential pool safety in unincorporated Pierce County follows 2021 IRC Appendix G, adopted through Washington's WAC 51-51, which requires self-closing, self-latching pedestrian gates on the barrier; public and semipublic pools are separately regulated by the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Officer under PCC Chapter 8.44.
In unincorporated Pierce County, spas and hot tubs fall under 2021 IRC Appendix G, but county guidance provides that a spa or hot tub with an approved lockable safety cover, and a pool with a powered lockable cover complying with ASTM F1346, need not have a separate 48-inch barrier installed.
Lakewood requires dogs and other animals to be under restraint by leash or chain held by a competent person whenever they are off the owner's premises. Under LMC 6.02.010, an animal is considered "at large" if it is off the owner's property and not on a leash. LMC 6.04.010 prohibits animals at large on public property and authorizes impoundment, except in designated off-leash areas such as the Fort Steilacoom Off-Leash Dog Park. Animal control is provided by City of Lakewood Animal Services (covering Lakewood, DuPont, and Steilacoom), with shelter services contracted to the Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society. State law (RCW 16.08.040) imposes strict liability on dog owners for bites in public places.
Beekeeping in Lakewood is permitted subject to Washington State Department of Agriculture registration requirements under RCW 15.60. No specific Lakewood beekeeping ordinance was identified beyond state requirements.
Lakewood follows Washington State exotic animal restrictions under WAC 220-450. Dangerous wild animals require WDFW permits. No additional local Lakewood exotic pet ordinance was identified beyond state law.
Backyard chickens and small livestock are allowed in unincorporated Pierce County, with limits scaled to lot size under zoning code PCC 18A.37.060. On lots under one-half acre, up to five small animals are allowed and roosters are prohibited; lots five acres or larger have no numeric limit.
Pierce County has no breed-specific ban. Dangerous-dog status is determined by an animal's behavior, not its breed, under PCC Chapter 6.07, and Washington law (RCW 16.08.100) bars proving a dog dangerous solely by showing it to be a particular breed.
No more than five dogs and/or cats may be individually licensed at a residence in unincorporated Pierce County under PCC 6.04.010. Keeping six or more dogs and/or cats requires a kennel or cattery license, and licenses are issued by the Pierce County Auditor.
Pierce County Code has no ordinance specifically prohibiting the feeding of wildlife in the unincorporated county. Feeding that attracts pests or creates a health or safety problem can still be addressed as a public nuisance, and Washington state wildlife rules discourage feeding deer and other game.
Pierce County addresses hoarding through animal-cruelty, neglect, and licensing law. Keeping six or more dogs and/or cats requires a kennel license, owners must provide 'adequate care,' and cruelty or neglect is enforced under state law (RCW 16.52) and can lead to a 10-year ban on owning animals for habitual violators.
Livestock keeping in unincorporated Pierce County is set by zoning code PCC 18A.37.060 and scales with lot size. Lots under one-half acre allow only two small livestock; lots five acres or larger have no numeric limit. Setbacks and manure-management rules apply.
Cats that go off their owner's premises must be licensed and wear a current tag under PCC 6.04.010, issued by the Pierce County Auditor. Cats are subject to the same at-large restraint rules as other animals, and no more than five dogs and cats may be licensed per residence.
Lakewood short-term rental guests must comply with Lakewood Municipal Code Chapter 8.36 (Noise Control), which incorporates Washington's Maximum Environmental Noise Levels (Chapter 173-60 WAC). For sound entering a residential receiving zone, daytime limits run to 55 dBA and drop 10 dBA between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (effectively 45 dBA at night). LMC 18A.40.090 also requires every STR's posted Good Neighbor Policy to address noise restrictions and quiet hours, and LMC 8.36 separately caps frequent, repetitive, or continuous sounds at 75 dBA at the property line.
Lakewood Municipal Code 18A.40.090 requires that all off-street parking required for the primary residential use of an STR site be made available to guests, and STR applicants must disclose the number of off-street guest parking spaces provided. There is no STR-specific minimum on top of the residential standard in LMC Title 18A. Guests must use designated off-street spaces; on-street guest parking must follow the standard Lakewood vehicle code and Lakewood Police Department posted limits.
Lakewood Municipal Code 18A.40.090 defines a short-term rental as a dwelling rented for fewer than 30 consecutive calendar days and ties STR maximum occupancy to LMC Title 15 (Buildings and Construction), which incorporates the International Building, Residential, and Fire Codes. Each STR must be inspected by the City and Tacoma-Pierce County Fire District before licensing to confirm building and fire code compliance. STRs are prohibited in commercial zones (C1-C3), industrial zones (IBP, I1, I2), public/semi-public institutional zones, and Open Space Recreation zones (OSR1, OSR2). STR permits are non-transferable and tied to a single address.
Short-term rentals in Lakewood, WA appear to require that the listed property be a primary residence based on available information. Operators must also obtain a Washington State business license and comply with applicable Lakewood zoning and licensing requirements. Verify current requirements with the City of Lakewood.
STR hosts in Lakewood must collect and remit Washington State lodging taxes under RCW 67.28. Combined tax rate includes WA State sales tax (6.5%) plus Pierce County and Lakewood sales taxes. Remittance is to the Washington Department of Revenue.
Pierce County Code 18A.37.040 sets no local insurance mandate, but Washington's statewide Short-Term Rental Act controls. RCW 64.37.050 requires every operator to carry primary liability insurance of at least one million dollars, or to book only through a platform providing equal or greater coverage.
Pierce County Code 18A.37.040 sets no limit on how many nights per year a vacation rental may operate. A rental meeting the five-room, ten-guest, affidavit, parking, and neighbor-notice standards may operate year-round. The only length limit is per stay: rentals over 30 consecutive days are not regulated as vacation rentals.
Pierce County Code 18A.37.040 does not limit vacation rentals to a host's primary residence. It permits rentals in any legally established single-family or accessory dwelling, so whole-home and non-owner-occupied vacation rentals are allowed once the owner files the affidavit and meets the guest-room, guest, and neighbor-notice standards.
Instead of a license, Pierce County Code 18A.37.040(B)(6) requires the owner to file a Vacation Rental Affidavit with Planning and Public Works. It states the owner's intent to operate the residence as a vacation rental, gives contact details, lists the advertising websites, and confirms neighbor notification was provided.
Pierce County Code 18A.37.040 does not require a host or manager on-site during a vacation-rental stay. It requires only that the owner or representative supply contact and parking information and file the affidavit. State law RCW 64.37.030 requires a responsive contact, not physical presence.
Lakewood has no native plant ordinance. Washington State has a noxious weed control program (RCW 17.10) — property owners must control noxious weeds listed by Pierce County Noxious Weed Control Board. Native plant planting is encouraged but not mandated.
Trees on private property in Lakewood generally do not require a removal permit unless in a Critical Area. Trees in flood hazard areas or steep slopes require additional review. Contact Lakewood Planning for guidance on specific properties.
Water restrictions in Lakewood are managed by Lakewood Water District and Pierce County Utilities. Washington DOE drought declarations can trigger mandatory restrictions under RCW 90.54. Lakewood Water District may impose additional seasonal restrictions.
Routine pruning of ordinary yard trees is unregulated, but trees retained under an approved county landscape or tree-conservation plan must be pruned to code, and significant and legacy trees may only be pruned by a professional tree service under PCC 18J.15.130.
Every Pierce County landowner has an enforceable duty under RCW 17.10.140 to eradicate class A noxious weeds and control listed class B and C weeds. The Pierce County Noxious Weed Control Board (PCC Chapter 8.24) inspects, orders control, and can abate at the owner's cost.
Unincorporated Pierce County has no numeric lawn-height limit, but overgrown vegetation that harbors vermin, blocks sight lines, or becomes a fire or health hazard can be abated as a public nuisance under PCC Chapter 8.08, and noxious weeds must be controlled under RCW 17.10.140.
Rooftop rainwater collection is broadly allowed in Washington, and Pierce County has no ordinance prohibiting residential rain barrels or cisterns; larger systems or those used for potable or plumbed uses may trigger plumbing-permit and Health Department review.
Pierce County has no ordinance specifically prohibiting or permitting synthetic/artificial turf on residential lots. Installation must still meet general zoning, impervious-surface, stormwater, and critical-area rules that apply to any ground-cover change.
Backyard residential composting is allowed and encouraged in Pierce County with no permit, but a compost pile that creates odor, attracts vermin, or otherwise becomes a public nuisance can be abated under PCC Chapter 8.08; large-scale composting is a permitted solid-waste facility.
Fence height limits in Lakewood are established under LMC Title 18A zoning standards. Standard residential fences are limited to 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in rear and side yards. Fences over 7 feet or masonry walls over 4 feet require a permit.
In unincorporated Pierce County, retaining walls may be built within required setbacks to a maximum height of 6 feet under zoning. A building permit is required once a wall exceeds 4 feet, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top, or whenever it supports a surcharge.
Fences in unincorporated Pierce County may be placed within required setbacks up to 6 feet without a permit, must be measured from the adjacent ground including all attachments, and must preserve corner and driveway sight distance under Title 17B PCC. Cities set their own separate requirements.
Pierce County zoning does not prohibit specific fence materials for typical residential fences. Barbed wire and other security devices are allowed and counted toward the 6-foot height limit. Sight-distance rules at corners and driveways govern placement more than material type.
A building permit is not required for fences 6 feet or under in unincorporated Pierce County. Fences taller than 6 feet require a building permit and must meet setbacks. Retaining walls over 4 feet also need a permit under the county's adopted residential building code.
Any typical fence material is allowed in unincorporated Pierce County, since zoning regulates height, setback, and sight distance rather than material type. Wood, vinyl, chain link, and masonry all qualify. Security fencing up to 8 feet is limited to utility, industrial, or agricultural uses.
Pierce County zoning does not set a shared-cost or boundary fence-ownership rule; those are civil matters between neighbors. The county does require that fences at corners and driveways meet the sight-distance standards of Title 17B PCC so views of traffic stay clear.
Washington requires pool barriers for residential and public pools through state-adopted building code provisions and Department of Health rules ensuring minimum 48-inch fencing.
Lakewood allows 2 ADUs per lot consistent with HB 1337 (2023). Detached ADUs require a minimum 4-foot setback from rear and side yard boundaries. Parking is not required for ADUs within ¼ mile of a Pierce Transit bus route or ½ mile of Sound Transit Lakewood Station.
Sheds and accessory structures in Lakewood require a building permit if over 200 sq ft or if including electrical or plumbing. Structures must meet zone setback requirements from property lines.
Garage conversions to habitable space in Lakewood require a building permit and must meet residential code standards. Conversion to an ADU is permitted under LMC 18A.40.110 and HB 1337 provisions.
A building permit is required for all carports in unincorporated Pierce County regardless of size, and carports must meet Title 18A accessory-structure setbacks and the 3-foot minimum setback under PCC 18A.37.020.
Unincorporated Pierce County treats a tiny home under 400 square feet on a permanent foundation as a residence permitted like a single-family house, while recreational vehicles cannot be used as a permanent dwelling beyond 120 days.
Selling homemade non-hazardous foods from a Pierce County home requires a Washington Cottage Food Operation permit from the state Department of Agriculture (WSDA) under RCW 69.22 and Chapter 16-149 WAC, with a $35,000 annual gross sales cap.
For home occupations in unincorporated Pierce County, signage is regulated by Title 18B of the Pierce County Code (Development Regulations - Signs), as directed by PCC 18A.37.110, so any home-business sign must comply with the county's sign standards for residential zones.
A basic home occupation in unincorporated Pierce County is allowed as an accessory use under PCC 18A.37.110 if only the resident performs it and one vehicle up to 18,000 pounds is used; larger cottage industries need an Administrative Use Permit or Conditional Use Permit.
A home-based day care in unincorporated Pierce County may operate from a residence under PCC 18A.37.100, serving up to 12 individuals with a DCYF-approved fence around the outdoor play area, and must hold a Washington family home child care license from DCYF.
Unincorporated Pierce County allows home occupations as an accessory use in urban and rural zones under Pierce County Code 18A.37.110, capping the activity at 500 square feet or 50 percent of the dwelling's living space, whichever is less, with no outside display or storage.
Lakewood's Urban Forest Management Plan recognizes significant trees. The city has Heritage Tree designations for notable trees on public property. For private property, check with the Lakewood Community Development Department regarding tree protection requirements.
Tree removal in Lakewood is governed by the Lakewood Municipal Code (LMC) tree regulations. A tree removal permit is required for significant trees. Lakewood has an Urban Forest Management Plan. Street trees require City of Lakewood Public Works approval.
Lakewood operates a stormwater utility and must comply with the Western Washington Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit under Washington DOE. Stormwater management regulated under LMC and Pierce County stormwater requirements. Development must comply with Pierce County Stormwater Management and Site Development Manual.
Lakewood participates in FEMA's NFIP. Properties in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (Zone A/AE) require elevation certificates for new construction and substantial improvements. Pierce County Chapter 18E.70 flood standards apply. The 50% rule triggers full code compliance for substantial improvements.
Washington's Shoreline Management Act (RCW 90.58) requires Shoreline Substantial Development Permits for most construction within 200 feet of marine and freshwater shorelines statewide.
Home cannabis cultivation is NOT legal for recreational users in Washington State. Washington's cannabis law (RCW 69.50 — I-502) does not permit home cultivation for recreational use. Medical cannabis patients with a healthcare provider's authorization may grow up to 6 plants (or 15 if authorized as a designated provider) under RCW 69.51A.
Washington's Liquor and Cannabis Board licenses cannabis retailers and imposes statewide 1,000-foot buffers from schools and other sensitive uses, which local governments may reduce but not eliminate.
Property maintenance and blight in Lakewood are addressed by Lakewood Code Enforcement under the Lakewood Municipal Code and Washington State Property Maintenance standards. Lakewood has a Neighborhood Services division handling blight complaints. Code Enforcement: 253-589-2489.
Pierce County Code Chapter 8.08 sets no numeric grass-height limit for unincorporated properties; overgrown vegetation is addressed only where it creates a public nuisance under PCC 8.08.040 or a fire, sight-distance or drainage hazard. Noxious weeds are separately controlled by the Pierce County Noxious Weed Control Board under RCW 17.10.
Pierce County Code 8.08.050(F) makes property where solid waste has accumulated a public nuisance unless the waste is securely stored in receptacles designed to prevent threats to health, safety or the environment. Curbside carts in unincorporated areas are supplied by the WUTC-certificated hauler serving each area.
Vacant and rural lots in unincorporated Pierce County fall under Code Chapter 8.08, which makes accumulated solid waste, junk vehicles, abandoned appliances and unsecured hazards public nuisances regardless of whether the parcel is occupied. Owners remain responsible for abatement costs under PCC 8.08.
Pierce County requires no permit for occasional residential garage or yard sales in unincorporated areas, treating them as an accessory home activity rather than a business. Sales must not create a public nuisance under Code Chapter 8.08, and off-premise signs in the county right-of-way are not allowed.
Rent control is PREEMPTED by Washington State law. RCW 35.21.830 prohibits cities and counties from enacting rent control ordinances. Lakewood may not impose rent control on private residential rental properties.
For nonpayment of rent, a Washington landlord must serve a 14-day pay-or-vacate notice in the form set by RCW 59.18.057 before filing an unlawful detainer under RCW 59.12.030. Lease-violation terminations require a 10-day cure notice, and waste, nuisance, or unlawful activity requires only 3 days. Most evictions also require just cause under RCW 59.18.650.
RCW 59.18.060 requires Washington landlords to keep rentals 'fit for human habitation' — structurally sound, weathertight, with working plumbing, heat, hot water, electrical systems, pest control, and reasonable locks. After written notice, RCW 59.18.070 sets repair deadlines: 24 hours for lost heat, water, or electricity, 72 hours for major fixtures, 10 days otherwise.
Washington RCW 59.18.650 requires landlords to have one of 16 enumerated lawful causes to terminate most residential tenancies statewide.
RCW 59.18.150 requires a Washington landlord to give at least two days' written notice before entering to inspect, repair, or maintain the unit, and at least one day's notice to show it to prospective tenants or buyers. Entry must be at reasonable times; no advance notice is required only in a genuine emergency.
Under RCW 59.18.170, a Washington landlord may not charge any late fee on rent paid within five days of its due date; a fee may begin only once rent is more than five days past due. The statute sets no specific dollar cap, though some cities and counties impose stricter local limits.
Under RCW 59.18.200, a Washington tenant may end a month-to-month tenancy with at least 20 days' written notice. A landlord, however, cannot end a periodic tenancy at will: RCW 59.18.650 requires 'just cause,' and most landlord-driven reasons (owner move-in, sale, demolition) demand 60 to 120 days' written notice.
Under RCW 59.18.140, a Washington landlord must give at least 90 days' prior written notice before raising rent (30 days for income-based subsidized housing). The 2025 Rent Stabilization Act (HB 1217) also caps annual increases statewide and bars any increase during the first 12 months of a tenancy.
Washington sets no dollar cap on residential security deposits, but it controls how they are collected and returned. A landlord may collect a deposit only with a written rental agreement and a written move-in checklist describing the unit's condition. After the tenancy ends, the landlord has 30 days to refund the deposit with an itemized statement of deductions.
Washington's general adverse possession period is 10 years under RCW 4.16.020, requiring possession that is actual, open and notorious, exclusive, hostile, and continuous. A shorter 7-year period applies under RCW 7.28.070 when the occupant holds under good-faith color of title and pays all taxes legally assessed on the land for those seven years.
Propane and charcoal barbecues are broadly allowed in Pierce County and are treated as recreational cooking, not regulated burning. They stay legal even during most burn bans, but must be kept a safe distance from structures.
Backyard smokers using charcoal, wood pellets, or propane are allowed in Pierce County as recreational cooking, no permit required. They generally stay legal during burn bans, but smoke that becomes a neighbor nuisance must be stopped.
Maximum building height in unincorporated Pierce County is set by zone. Residential zones such as Suburban Residential (SR), Residential Resource (RR), and ROC are capped at 35 feet, while rural zones like R5 through R40 allow 40 feet. Denser and commercial zones permit more.
Building setbacks in unincorporated Pierce County depend on the zone. In the Suburban Residential (SR) zone, the minimums are 25 feet front on an arterial, 15 feet front on a non-arterial, 5 feet interior/side, and 10 feet rear. Detached accessory structures keep a 3-foot minimum setback.
Pierce County zoning controls building bulk mainly through yard-area limits rather than a single lot-coverage percentage. Detached single-story accessory structures may cover up to 25 percent of an interior yard and 50 percent of a rear yard, and on lots under 1 acre they cannot exceed 2,000 total square feet.
Pierce County Code sets no countywide curb setout time, so cart placement in unincorporated areas follows the WUTC-certificated hauler's tariff. Waste must still be securely contained under PCC 8.08.050(F), and haulers must offer accommodations for long or steep driveways and residents with limited mobility under PCC 8.29.030.
Pierce County Code 8.29.030 requires certificated haulers to offer every-other-week, single-stream curbside recycling to all single-family homes in unincorporated areas, using an approximately 96-gallon cart. Recycling participation by residents is voluntary, but haulers must provide the service and accept a defined list of materials.
Pierce County Code Chapter 8.30 establishes a county solid waste handling system for all unincorporated areas, but residential garbage collection is provided by private haulers certificated by the Washington Utilities & Transportation Commission (WUTC), not the county. Murrey's Disposal, LeMay, American Disposal and DM Disposal serve the unincorporated county.
Pierce County residents dispose of bulky items, appliances and extra debris either through their WUTC-certificated hauler's on-call bulky pickup or by self-hauling to a county transfer station or the LRI landfill. Abandoning large appliances is a specific nuisance under PCC 8.08.050(E) and dumping them elsewhere is a misdemeanor.
Dumping garbage, sewage or debris on any street, public property or private property without the owner's consent is a misdemeanor under Pierce County Code 8.32.020. State law RCW 70A.200.060 layers on penalties from a civil infraction up to a gross misdemeanor plus cleanup restitution, depending on the volume of litter.
Garage sale signs are temporary signs under PCC 18B.10.040 in unincorporated Pierce County. They need no permit, but only one non-yard temporary sign is allowed per road frontage and signs may not sit in the right-of-way.
In unincorporated Pierce County, political signs are protected speech treated as temporary yard signs under PCC 18B.10.040, need no permit, must stay under 32 square feet, and may not block traffic visibility.
Pierce County's countywide exterior illumination standards in PCC 18J.15.085 require hidden light sources, downward-directed shielded floodlights, and a 3000 Kelvin maximum color temperature to limit skyglow and glare.
Pierce County's exterior illumination standards in PCC 18J.15.085 require lighting to avoid glare and light trespass onto neighboring properties, keeping illumination on the premises it is intended to light.
Under the Pierce County Park Code (Chapter 14.08), gated parks follow posted hours and, in other areas, no person may be present or park a vehicle more than one-half hour after legal sunset without a permit.
Washington does not impose a statewide juvenile curfew; cities may enact local curfews under general police powers, subject to constitutional limits.
Commercial drone operations in Washington are governed by FAA Part 107, with state law adding criminal liability for invasive uses and limited authority over state-owned land.
Washington combines federal FAA airspace preemption with state criminal statutes prohibiting drone voyeurism, harassment, and interference with first responders that apply uniformly statewide.
Washington RCW 49.46 establishes a state minimum wage with annual CPI adjustments and permits cities to set higher local minimum wages, unlike many preemption states.
Washington RCW 49.46.200 mandates paid sick leave for nearly all employees, and RCW 50A.04 provides paid family and medical leave funded by payroll premiums.
Washington has no statewide predictable scheduling law and does not preempt local rules, allowing cities like Seattle to enforce secure scheduling ordinances.
Washington issues concealed pistol licenses under RCW 9.41.070 on a shall-issue basis to qualified applicants, with statewide preemption preventing local concealed carry rules.
Washington RCW 9.41.290 broadly preempts local firearm regulation, reserving authority over firearm laws to the state legislature with very limited exceptions.
Washington allows open carry of firearms by qualified adults without a permit, with limited statutory restrictions and broad preemption barring most local open carry rules.
Washington RCW 9.41.050 governs carrying firearms in vehicles statewide, requiring a concealed pistol license to carry a loaded handgun in a motor vehicle.
Washington has two regimes. Communities created on or after July 1, 2018 fall under WUCIOA (RCW 64.90), whose lien carries a 6-month super-priority over first mortgages and can be foreclosed like a mortgage. Older associations use the Homeowners' Associations Act (RCW 64.38), whose lien may be foreclosed only after strict notice and dollar thresholds.
Washington requires HOA board meetings to be open to owners and gives owners broad record-access rights. WUCIOA communities follow RCW 64.90.445 (open meetings) and RCW 64.90.495 (records); older associations follow RCW 64.38.035 and 64.38.045. As of January 1, 2026, the WUCIOA open-meetings rule (RCW 64.90.445) applies to all Washington community associations.
Washington HOAs may adopt and enforce rules and architectural standards and enforce the recorded declaration. Under WUCIOA, RCW 64.90.405 authorizes rule adoption and enforcement, while RCW 64.90.510 fixes outer limits the rules cannot cross (flags, solar, signs). Older HOAs draw the same rulemaking power from RCW 64.38.020.
Both Washington regimes let HOAs impose reasonable fines, but only after notice and an opportunity to be heard and only under a fine schedule already adopted by the board and furnished to owners. WUCIOA communities use RCW 64.90.405; older associations use RCW 64.38.020. Neither statute sets a dollar cap on fines.
Washington statutes override HOA covenants that ban solar panels, the U.S. or state flag, or political signs. WUCIOA RCW 64.90.510 protects all three for newer communities; older HOAs are covered by RCW 64.38.055 (solar), 64.38.033 (U.S. flag), and 64.38.034 (political yard signs). HOAs may set reasonable time, place, and manner rules but cannot prohibit outright.
Washington has no state E-Verify mandate, and RCW 49.60 prohibits employment discrimination based on national origin or immigration-related characteristics statewide.
Washington's Keep Washington Working Act under RCW 10.93.160 limits state and local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, establishing statewide sanctuary protections.
Washington's Growth Management Act under RCW 36.70A.170 requires counties and cities to designate and protect agricultural lands of long-term commercial significance through zoning.
Washington RCW 7.48.305 protects established agricultural activities from nuisance lawsuits when operations existed before nearby nonagricultural land uses changed the area.
Washington RCW 70A.530 bans single-use plastic carryout bags statewide and requires retailers to charge a pass-through fee for compliant paper or reusable bags.
Washington RCW 70A.245 bans expanded polystyrene foam food service containers, packing peanuts, and coolers in phases starting June 2024 to combat plastic pollution.
Washington RCW 70A.550 limits single-use food service ware including plastic straws and utensils to upon-request distribution at restaurants and food service businesses.
Washington RCW 64.38.055 voids homeowner association covenants prohibiting solar panel installation on owner property statewide, while permitting only reasonable placement rules that do not significantly impair efficiency or increase cost.
Washington RCW 64.38.055 and RCW 64.90.510 prevent HOAs and condominium associations from prohibiting solar panels, while RCW 35.21.700 limits local government ability to ban solar collectors on residential property.
Washington RCW 26.28.080 sets the minimum age for purchasing tobacco and vapor products at 21, aligning with federal Tobacco 21 standards statewide.
Washington has not enacted a statewide flavored tobacco ban, leaving flavor restrictions to limited Department of Health authority and federal FDA enforcement on flavored vapor cartridges.
Washington RCW 70.345 requires licensing for vapor product retailers, distributors, and delivery sellers, with state Department of Revenue oversight and tax collection.