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Thurston County, WA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Governing chapter
TCC Chapter 13.56
Permit voids after
180 days from issuance
Unauthorized removal deadline
90 days after county notice
Fee basis
Set by Board resolution

Summary

Thurston County requires a rights-of-way permit before anyone builds a driveway, sidewalk, frontage improvement, or utility installation within a county road right-of-way.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Thurston County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

A. All Persons conducting Work within the rights-of-way shall obtain a Permit as provided for in this Chapter, unless otherwise exempt. ... E. Any Person found to be conducting any Work within the rights-of-way without having first obtained the required Permit(s) shall immediately cease all Work (exclusive of actions required to stabilize the area) and be required to obtain a Permit before Work may be restarted.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 77).

Full Breakdown

Under TCC 13.56.080, all persons conducting work within county rights-of-way must obtain a permit unless specifically exempt, and anyone working without one must immediately stop and get a permit before restarting. TCC 13.56.100 lists permit-triggering activities, including new driveways, any work on existing driveways, and construction of new roads or frontage improvements such as sidewalks, curb/gutter, street lighting, and drainage. The permit fee is set by Board resolution under 13.56.130, and unauthorized facilities found in the right-of-way can be ordered removed and the area restored at the owner's expense under 13.56.050.

Violations & Fines

Work found in the right-of-way without a permit must stop immediately; violators face Title 26 TCC code enforcement, forced removal or relocation of unpermitted work at their own expense, and permit revocation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to put in a new driveway in Thurston County?
Yes. TCC 13.56.100 requires a rights-of-way permit for construction of new driveways and any work on existing driveways.
What happens if I build in the right-of-way without a permit?
You must immediately stop work under TCC 13.56.080(E), and the county can order unpermitted work removed or relocated at your expense.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Thurston County

All Thurston County rules

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