Kennewick, WA Parking Rules: Driveway Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- KMC § 18.36.100(1)
- Required surface
- Asphalt or Portland cement pavement
- Accessory driveway alternative
- 3-inch compacted gravel minimum
- Enforcement
- Misdemeanor under KMC § 18.54.090
Summary
Kennewick requires the driveway to each home's primary parking area be paved with asphalt or concrete, or a Planning Director-approved hard surface: unpaved dirt or gravel parking isn't allowed in residential zones.
For residential zoning districts the driveway to the primary parking structure/area for each dwelling unit must be surfaced with asphalt or Portland cement binder pavement, or an alternative hard surface as approved by the Planning Director. The driveway for accessory structures not used for primary parking and not used as a dwelling in residential zoning districts can be surfaced with a minimum three-inch compacted gravel.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 19 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Under Kennewick Municipal Code § 18.36.100(1), every parking area in the city must be surfaced with asphalt or Portland cement binder pavement for a durable, dustless surface, graded to drain on-site. For residential zoning districts, the driveway serving the primary parking structure or area for each dwelling unit must carry that same hard surface, or an alternative hard surface the Planning Director approves: bare dirt or lawn won't pass. The one carve-out: driveways serving accessory structures not used for primary parking or as a dwelling may be surfaced with a minimum three-inch compacted gravel base instead.
Violations & Fines
Failing to pave a required residential driveway violates Title 18 zoning standards; Kennewick Municipal Code § 18.54.090 makes any Title 18 violation a misdemeanor, punishable until the property is brought into compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I park on a gravel or dirt driveway in Kennewick?
Does Kennewick allow gravel driveways for any structures?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kennewick
Compare Kennewick to another location·View the Washington parking rules overview
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