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1. Do I need a building permit if I build retaining walls to terrace my landscape on a hillside?

Yes, if the walls exceed 4-feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall and always if supporting a surcharge/load retention.

No, a building permit is not required if it is not supporting a surcharge and is less than 4-feet in height and meets the offset of 1:1 ratio. IRC Section 105, Reference Bulletin #8.

Other regulations may apply; Ask a Permit Technician.

2. When do I need a permit to build a fence?

A Fence greater than 6-feet high requires a building permit and must meet setbacks. The height is measured from the top of the fence to the ground immediately adjacent to the fence, PCC 18A.15.040 B.2.d and IRC Section 105, Reference Bulletin #8.

Other regulations may apply: Ask a Permit Technician. 

3. How close can a fence be to road intersection?

Any artificially constructed barrier of any material or combination of materials erected to enclose, screen, or separate areas may be erected within required setbacks to a maximum height of six feet at any point, provided all applicable intersection sight distance requirements of Titles 17A and 17B Pierce County Code are met. Sight obscuring objects must be located to provide sight distance as required in Table 17B.20.040. Fences shall not be permitted within the public or private road easement.

4. Do I need a permit to replace my bulkhead?

Any bulkhead, no matter what size, is regulated by the Shoreline Regulations. A bulkhead greater than 4-feet in height, measured from finished grade, including anything below ground, also requires a building permit and environmental review (SEPA). A shoreline exemption can be granted when the sole purpose of a bulkhead is to protect an existing single-family residence, and appurtenant structures, from loss or damage by erosion (WAC 173.27.040(2)(c)), and for normal maintenance and repair of the bulkhead (WAC 173.27.040(2)(b)). In the case of an emergency situation, Per WAC 173.27.040(2)(d), a bulkhead may be granted written shoreline exemption for construction necessary to protect property from damage by the elements.