FAQs • Pierce County, WA • CivicEngage

Why do I need a turn around in front of my commercial/private road gate? The fire department can open the gate.: The purpose of a turn around is to provide vehicles that are denied access through the gate a safe and easy manner to turn around and exit the site headlights first onto the road. Backing out onto a road can be hazardous.

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PPW Development Center - Gate Permits

1. I want to build a gate across my driveway, do I need a permit?: Yes. Gate permits are required when they cross a driveway accessing a single residential structure, a shared access or private road, and driveways for commercial or industrial use.

2. Why do I need a gate permit for my residential driveway? The gate is for the security of my property!: The primary purpose for a permit in a residential situation is providing access for an emergency responder. In a personal emergency or fire, every second counts to save a life or structure. If there is no rapid entry system for the emergency responder, valuable time is wasted trying to get past the gate. Also, if the gate does not meet certain setbacks and clearance widths, the fire/rescue vehicle may not be able to access through the gate.

3. Why do I have to provide plans for review? Can't I give you a picture of the gate from the store/vendor? It's just a gate across my driveway.: We have to ensure the gate and the rapid entry system meets the minimum requirements of the ordinances. The site development inspector and your contractor need an approved plan to ensure the gate is installed properly the first time.

4. I never heard of a gate permit before. How long has this been a requirement?: Permits for gates have been required since January 1, 1992.

5. Why do I need a turn around in front of my commercial/private road gate? The fire department can open the gate.: The purpose of a turn around is to provide vehicles that are denied access through the gate a safe and easy manner to turn around and exit the site headlights first onto the road. Backing out onto a road can be hazardous.