Fence permits in City of Federal Way: fees, timeline & requirements (2026)
Everything you need to know about pulling a fence permit in City of Federal Way, Washington — when one is required, what it costs, how long review takes, what documents are required, and which inspections you can expect. Cited to Apply via MyBuildingPermit.com..
When does a fence need a permit in City of Federal Way?
A building permit is not required for a fence 7 feet or under in height; taller fences require a permit. Zoning height limits in FWRC Title 19 still apply.
From City of Federal Way's own page
“Fences not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high.”Source ↗verified 2026-06-26
Required submittals
- site plan w/ heights and setbacks (if permit required)
Inspection sequence
- final (if permit required)
Contractor specialties needed
general
Notes & caveats
The exemption page renders "7 fee" — an obvious typo for the IRC R105.2 standard "7 feet (2134 mm)".
Fence permit fee estimate in City of Federal Way
Worked example for a $6,000 fence project (building permit). Your actual fee scales with project valuation.
| Building permit fee | $125.25 |
| Plan review | $81.41 |
| WA state surcharge | $4.5 |
| Estimated total | $211.16 |
Typically no fee unless permit required. Computed from the City of Federal Way fee bracket schedule · source ↗. Impact/utility fees may apply separately.
How to apply
- 1. Confirm your parcel's zoning & overlays. Run an address lookup for your City of Federal Way fence — we'll pull your specific lot polygon, zoning, setbacks, and any shoreline/ECA/historic overlays.
- 2. Assemble submittals (1).
- 3. Submit through the city portal: Apply via MyBuildingPermit.com. ↗
- 4. Track review (typical: —). Respond to reviewer comments promptly.
- 5. Pay issuance fees (Typically no fee unless permit required.) and pick up the permit. Inspection card travels with the job.
Fence permits in City of Federal Way — FAQ
When does a fence need a permit in City of Federal Way?
A building permit is not required for a fence 7 feet or under in height; taller fences require a permit. Zoning height limits in FWRC Title 19 still apply.
How much does a fence permit cost in City of Federal Way?
For a $6,000 fence project, the estimated City of Federal Way permit fee is about $211.16 — building fee $125.25 + plan review $81.41 + surcharges. Fees scale with project valuation per the city schedule.
