BLD2023-0347+Supplementals_Fence_Definitions_and_Information+3.20.2023_4.08.23_PM+3431179nF
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Jurisdiction: Edmonds
Project Name: New Fence
Application ID: 1285724
Supplemental Name: Fence Definitions and Information
DEFINITIONS:
FENCE: A fence is a combination of, wood, metal, masonry or other material which provides a visual and/or physical obstruction to
an observer at ground level. This definition shall exclude any portion of a retaining wall which is below finished grade and which is
contiguous with the fence. Any portion of a base or posthole for the fence, which does not retain earth, shall not be considered a
retaining wall but rather part of the fence.
TRELLIS: A trellis is a horizontal structure of open lattice work designed and intended to support the growth of vines or other
vegetation, or a horizontal decorative element composed of lattice work which admits light and air through a predominantly open
design. A trellis is defined to be a fence or a part of a fence, and is therefore regulated according to the fence requirements explained
in this handout.
Note that a trellis which has a horizontal element, which is more than thirty-six (36) inches in width, measured perpendicular to the
fence or trellis is considered to be an arbor (see arbor definition below). Trellises are subject to the same height limits that apply to
fences, with the following exceptions:
A trellis up to two (2) additional feet in height to a maximum of eight (8) feet may be added as a decorative element to a fence so long
as the combined length of the trellis(es) constructed facing a property line do not exceed twenty five percent (25%) of the total length
of that property line.
A trellis up to two (2) additional feet in height to a maximum of eight (8) feet may be added as a decorative element to a fence facing a
street, alley or access easement so long as the trellis remains free of any plantings, vegetation or other visual obstruction.
ARBOR: An arbor is a separate free-standing or attached structure that has a lattice roof and lattice walls, or a horizontal lattice work
structure serving to roof a gate or entrance way. An arbor is considered to be an accessory structure, and is regulated accordingly. A
building permit is required for an arbor which exceeds 120 square feet when accessory to a Commercial or Multifamily building or
which exceeds 200 square feet when accessory to a Single Family Residence. An arbor up to three (3) additional feet in height to a
nine (9) foot maximum may be constructed over a gate, walkway or entrance within a required setback.
A Critical Areas Determination, issued by the Planning Division, must be completed and on file with the City. Provide applicable
information as indicated by the decision.
SPECIAL RESTRICTIONS & REQUIREMENTS
STREET AND CORNER RESTRICTIONS: For site obstruction concerns, fence height shall normally be limited to three (3) feet within
ten (10) feet of any street or access easement, and within thirty (30) feet of any corner unless an exception is approved. Exception, if
the City Traffic Engineer finds no sight or obstruction hazard from the street or nearby property, fences of up to 6 feet in height may
be approved.
NOTE: No fence or hedge may be constructed or maintained if it creates a sight or obstruction hazard to the street or to nearby
property. No deviation from code requirements shall be permitted by the City Traffic Engineer without staff review of the following
factors; traffic visibility, sight hazards, private and public safety considerations, lot shape, location and topography, location of
adjacent public and private structures, including natural features such as trees, shrubs and landscaping.
FENCES CONSTRUCTED ON RETAINING WALLS OR ROCKERIES: When a retaining wall or rockery (three feet in height or greater)
is contiguous to, and below, a proposed fence; fences may be constructed, for the purposes of safety, no greater than 4 feet above
the top of the retaining wall or rockery.
SWIMMING POOL FENCES: The minimum height of single family residential swimming pool fences is 4 feet with openings designed
according to Chapter 3 of the International Swimming Po