Do You Need a Permit for a Fence in Washington?

Fence rules in Washington are set locally, which means the answer depends on your city and your lot. Here is how to find out what applies to you before you dig.

The general rule

Most Washington cities allow a fence up to six feet tall in side and rear yards without a permit. Front-yard fences are usually lower, commonly four feet.

Above those heights, a permit is typically required. Many cities also restrict fence height near intersections or corner lots for sight-distance reasons.

Everett specifically

The City of Everett sets fence height limits through its zoning code and requires a permit for fences above the standard limit. Rules can vary by zone, so the address matters.

If your property is on a corner, expect sight-distance restrictions on the corner side.

HOAs have their own rules

If you live in a subdivision with an HOA, the HOA rules often override or add to city rules. Common HOA requirements include approved styles, colors, and maximum heights that are lower than city code.

Check your CC&Rs before ordering material. Taking a fence down because the HOA rejected it is an expensive lesson.

Property lines

A fence must be on your property, not on the line itself. Before building, confirm the line — either from your survey or by having one done.

If the fence is going right on a boundary, talk to the neighbor first. Washington law does not always require it, but disputes over fences are far more expensive than a conversation.

What to check before you build

Your city's fence height limit for your zone. Any corner sight-distance restrictions. HOA approval. Your survey. And whether any utility easements run along the proposed line.

What we do at estimate

We ask for the address and check the height limit that applies. If a permit is needed, we tell you before quoting so the permit time is built into the schedule instead of surprising you.

Frequently asked questions