Meets Base WA IRC R105.2 Dimensional Exemption (Subject to Local Setbacks & Site Overlays)
City of Kelso Base WA IRC R105.2 Dimensional Rule:
≤ 7.0 feet tall without a building permit under WA IRC R105.2, subject to 6.0 ft local residential zoning norms and 3.5–4.0 ft front-yard traffic sight-distance limits.
≤ 7.0 feet tall without a building permit under WA IRC R105.2, subject to 6.0 ft local residential zoning norms and 3.5–4.0 ft front-yard traffic sight-distance limits.
Local Setback & Municipal Note (City of Kelso):
6 ft max height in rear/side yards, 4 ft max in front yard setback (KMC 17.22 intersection sight-distance triangle).
⚠️ Informational Code Reference Only — Not an Official City Determination: Even when a deck, wall, shed, or fence meets the base WA IRC R105.2 dimensional threshold, local property-line setbacks, critical-area/wetland buffers, shoreline overlays (e.g., Kalama/Columbia/Lewis rivers), steep-slope geohazard zones, utility easements, separate electrical/plumbing permits, and HOA rules still apply. The property owner and contractor of record are solely responsible for verifying parcel rules with the local permit counter before work begins.
Frequently Asked Questions (Kelso, WA)
1. How tall of a fence can I build without a permit in Kelso, WA?
Under the Washington State Residential Code (IRC R105.2), fences up to 7 feet tall do not require a building permit. However, City of Kelso municipal zoning limits standard side/rear yard residential fences to 6–7 feet and restricts front-yard setback fences to 3.5–4.0 feet for street visibility.
2. What is the corner lot sight-distance rule for fences in Kelso, WA?
On corner lots and driveway approaches in City of Kelso, solid fences over 30–42 inches are restricted inside the clear vision triangle so drivers backing out or turning can see oncoming traffic and pedestrians.