Fence Permit Guide Everett, WA
Everything you need to know about fence permits, height limits, front yard rules, and the application process in Everett, Washington. Save time and avoid fines.
Planning to build a new fence in Everett, Washington? Before you start digging post holes or ordering materials, you need to understand the local permitting rules. The City of Everett enforces specific zoning regulations, height limits, and setback requirements that apply to all residential and commercial fence projects. Violating these rules can result in fines, forced removal, or delays.
This guide covers everything you need to know about fence permits in Everett, WA — from when a permit is required, to height limits, front yard rules, materials, property lines, and the full application process. Whether you are installing a wood privacy fence, a chain-link fence, or a decorative vinyl fence, this guide will help you stay compliant.
Do I Need a Fence Permit in Everett, WA?
Good news for most homeowners
Standard residential fences 6 feet or less in height generally do NOT require a building permit in Everett, provided they are built entirely on private property and do not violate other zoning rules.
However, you must apply for a Public Works or Building Permit if your project meets any of these criteria:
- The fence will be taller than 6 feet
- Any part of the fence sits on or extends into public property or a public right-of-way
- Your home is on a corner lot (sight triangle restrictions apply)
- The fence is located in a critical area such as wetlands, shorelines, or steep slopes
- The fence is built on top of a retaining wall or involves structural earth work
- You are installing a fence in a commercial or multi-family zone
Fence Height Rules in Everett
Backyard & Side Yard
Up to 6 feet
No permit required for residential fences 6 ft or under
Front Yard
Up to 3 feet (36 in)
Lower height to maintain driver and pedestrian visibility
Corner Lots — Sight Triangle
Up to 3 feet
Within the triangular area at street intersections
Over 6 Feet
Permit Required
Building permit + site plan required for approval
Fence height is measured from the finished ground level to the top of the fence. If your property has slopes, the height is measured at the highest point of the fence. Decorative posts, trellises, or lattice that extend above the fence line may be counted as part of the total height.
Front Yard Fence Rules
Front yard fences in Everett face the strictest rules. The city wants to maintain clear sightlines for drivers, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles. Here is what you need to know:
- Maximum height: 3 feet (36 inches) in the front yard setback
- Materials must maintain at least 70% visual transparency (e.g., chain-link, spaced pickets, wrought iron)
- Solid privacy fences are generally prohibited in the front yard
- The fence must be set back at least 1 foot from the sidewalk or public right-of-way
- Gates must swing inward (toward the property) unless the sidewalk is wide enough to accommodate outward swing
If you want a taller or more solid fence in your front yard, you may need to apply for a variance through the Everett Planning Department. Variances are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed.
Allowed Materials & Transparency
Everett does not heavily restrict fence materials for standard residential fences, but there are rules about transparency and prohibited materials:
Allowed Materials
- Wood (cedar, redwood, pressure-treated)
- Vinyl / PVC
- Chain-link (galvanized or coated)
- Wrought iron / ornamental steel
- Aluminum
- Composite materials
Prohibited / Restricted
- Raw sheet metal (without transparency)
- Barbed wire (residential zones)
- Electric fences (residential zones)
- Fences that create a traffic hazard
- Fences that block drainage or utility access
For fences in setback areas, the city requires at least 70% visual transparency if the fence is over 3 feet tall. This means chain-link fences, spaced picket fences, and wrought iron designs are typically acceptable, while solid wood privacy fences may not be.
Property Lines & Setbacks
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is building a fence too close to — or even on — the property line. Here are the key rules:
- The City of Everett does NOT survey private property lines. You are responsible for determining your exact boundary.
- A common local practice is to build the fence 2 to 8 inches inside your property line to avoid disputes.
- If you build on your neighbor's property, they have the legal right to demand removal — at your expense.
- For fences along shared property lines, it is best practice to discuss the project with your neighbor before starting.
- If you are unsure about your property line, hire a licensed surveyor. It typically costs $300–$800.
Pro tip: Many fence contractors (including Young Eagles Fence & Deck) can help you identify approximate property lines using plat maps and on-site measurements. However, for a definitive boundary, a professional land survey is always recommended.
Corner Lots & Sight Triangles
If your home is on a corner lot, you face additional restrictions to protect driver visibility at intersections. This is called the Sight Triangle or Visibility Triangle rule.
Sight Triangle Rule
Within the triangular area formed at the intersection of two streets (typically measured from the corner), fences must be no taller than 3 feet and must maintain full visibility. Solid fences are prohibited in this zone.
The exact dimensions of the sight triangle depend on the intersection type and posted speed limits. For most residential intersections in Everett, the sight triangle is approximately 30 feet from the corner along each street. If you are on a corner lot, consult with the Everett Planning Department or a licensed contractor before designing your fence.
Call Before You Dig (811)
Call 811 Before You Dig
Washington State law requires you to call the 811 Utility Locate Line at least two business days before digging post holes. This is a free service that marks underground utility lines — gas, water, electric, telecom — to prevent dangerous strikes.
Call 811 or submit online at call811.com
Wait 2 business days for utility crews to mark lines
Dig carefully within 2 feet of marked lines
Hitting an underground utility line can cause serious injury, property damage, and service outages. It can also result in fines. Calling 811 is free, fast, and legally required — so do not skip this step.
How to Apply for a Fence Permit in Everett
If your fence project requires a permit, follow these steps through the City of Everett:
Prepare Your Site Plan
Draw a detailed site plan showing your property dimensions, the proposed fence location, setbacks from property lines, and the fence height and material. Include elevation drawings if the fence is over 6 feet.
Submit Online
Go to the City of Everett Online Permitting Portal. Create an account and upload your site plan, elevation drawings, and any other required documents digitally.
Pay Fees
After initial review, the city will email you with fee instructions. Permit fees for residential fences typically range from $100–$300 depending on complexity.
Wait for Approval
The city will review your application for zoning compliance, height limits, setbacks, and safety. Standard review takes 5–10 business days. Complex projects may take longer.
Receive Your Permit
Once approved, you will receive your permit documents. You must post the permit in a visible location on your property during construction.
Tip: Working with a licensed fence contractor like Young Eagles Fence & Deck can simplify this process. We handle site plan preparation, permit applications, and city communications for our clients.
Inspections & Timeline
Once your permit is issued, you have 180 days to complete construction and request a final inspection. If you miss this deadline, your permit may expire and you will need to reapply.
Final Inspection
Required for all permitted fences. The inspector checks height, setbacks, materials, and compliance with your approved plan.
180-Day Deadline
You must complete construction and request final inspection within 180 days of permit issuance.
Re-Inspection Fees
If the fence fails inspection, you must fix the issues and request a re-inspection. Additional fees may apply.
Extension Request
If you need more time, you can request a permit extension before the 180-day deadline expires.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Building a non-compliant fence can be costly. Here is what you risk if you skip the rules:
- Fines: $100–$500 per day for ongoing violations
- Forced removal: The city can order you to tear down the fence at your own expense
- Stop-work orders: If you are mid-construction, the city can halt all work immediately
- Neighbour disputes: Your neighbour can sue if the fence is on their property or violates shared agreements
- Resale issues: Non-compliant fences must be disclosed and can reduce property value
The bottom line: it is always cheaper and safer to follow the rules from the start. If you are unsure about any requirement, consult a licensed fence contractor or contact the Everett Planning Department directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot wood fence in my backyard?
No. In Everett, standard residential fences 6 feet or less in height do not require a permit if they are built entirely on private property and comply with setback rules.
Can I build a fence on the property line in Everett?
Yes, but it is risky. The city does not verify property lines. Building 2–8 inches inside your line is a safer practice. If you are unsure, hire a licensed surveyor.
How much does a fence permit cost in Everett?
Permit fees typically range from $100 to $300 for residential fences. The exact fee depends on the fence height, complexity, and whether a variance is required.
How long does the permit process take?
Standard review takes 5–10 business days. If your project requires a variance or is in a critical area, it may take several weeks.
Can I install a fence in the winter?
Yes, but consider soil conditions. Frozen ground can make post installation difficult. Spring and early summer are the most popular seasons for fence installation in Everett.
Do I need to tell my neighbour before building a fence?
Legally, no — but it is highly recommended. If the fence is on a shared property line, discussing the project with your neighbour can prevent disputes and shared costs.
What happens if my fence fails inspection?
You must correct the issues and request a re-inspection. Re-inspection fees may apply. A licensed contractor can help ensure your fence passes the first time.
Can I build a fence on a retaining wall?
Fences built on retaining walls or involving structural earth work require special approval and may need a building permit. Contact the city for guidance.
Need Help With Your Fence Permit?
Young Eagles Fence & Deck handles permits, zoning verification, and city inspections for homeowners in Everett, Seattle, Bellevue, and surrounding areas.