This page includes examples of local zoning and building code regulations in Washington State that address fences, walls, hedges, and rockeries, as well as specific types of fences such as electric fences, barbed wire, razor wire, and fences around swimming pools at single family residences.

Fence, Wall, and Hedge Regulations

• Bellingham: Planning Department Brochure for Fences, Walls and Hedges (2018) – Addresses fence height, distance from property lines, and permits required
• Edmonds Community Development Code Ch. 17.30 – Fences; includes trellis and arbor provisions
• Lynnwood Municipal Code Ch. 21.10 – Fence, Hedge and Vision Obstruction Regulations
• Port Townsend Municipal Code Ch. 17.68 – Fences, Walls, Arbors and Hedges
• Redmond Zoning Code Ch. 21.24 – Fences
• Spokane Municipal Code Ch. 17C.110.230 – Fences

Rockeries and Retaining Walls

• Bothell Municipal Code Sec. 12.14.150 – Fences and Freestanding Walls
  • Permit Application Form 20, Retaining Walls (2017) – Applies to retaining walls over four feet or supporting a surcharge load
• Mercer Island Municipal Code Sec. 19.02.050 – Fences, Retaining Walls and Rockeries

Fences Around Pools and Ponds

• Bellevue Municipal Code Ch. 23.16 – Swimming Pool Enclosures
• Vancouver Municipal Code Ch. 17.36 – Fencing Decorative Pools and Fish Ponds
• Also see Redmond example below

Barbed Wire, Razor Wire, and Electric Fences

• Lynnwood Municipal Code Sec. 21.10.200 – Electric Fences
• Redmond Zoning Code Sec. 21.24.050 – Electric, Barbed Wire, and Swimming Pool Fences
• Seattle Municipal Code Sec. 15.48.020 – Barbed Wire or Electric Fence
• Walla Walla Municipal Code Sec. 20.110.070 – Dangerous Fences