Washington County Oregon Shed, Fence, and Wall Permit Guide

Washington County shed, fence, and retaining wall permit needs depend on habitability, size, height, setbacks, parcel size, and community development rules.

Permit takeaway

Washington County says a non-habitable one-story detached accessory structure may be exempt when it stays within the listed floor-area and height limits, while habitable structures need permits.

Zoning and placement

A fence over seven feet high requires a building permit and must meet setbacks, and fence or wall placement is subject to the Community Development Code.

Building and trade review

A retaining wall over four feet high requires a building permit, and larger rural-parcel shed exemptions depend on parcel size and required separation from property lines and regulated structures.

Call before applying when

Call before relying on an exemption if the shed may be habitable, the shed is near 200 square feet or 15 feet high, the parcel is rural, the fence is over seven feet, or a wall is over four feet.

Documents to prepare

• Shed dimensions
• Fence height
• Retaining wall height
• Site plan
• Setback and parcel information

Inspection planning

• Confirm exemption or permit need
• Check setbacks with Current Planning
• Submit permit application when required
• Upload plans when instructed
• Schedule required inspections

Official sources

• Washington County Shed Permit FAQ
• Washington County Fence Permit FAQ
• Washington County Building Services FAQ

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.