Fences, Decks, and Sheds

Depending on the scope of work, please keep in mind that the following items may be subject to review:

• Setbacks to property line
• Height restrictions
• Building code requirements

Are you building a fence, deck or shed?

If you are building a shed (120 sq. ft. or less), a deck (18″ or less above grade), or a fence (6’ or less in height) outside of an environmentally sensitive area, then a permit is not required, otherwise it may be subject to a Critical Area Review.

• All construction must be in compliance with City building and zoning codes.
• Fences, regardless of height, cannot prohibit access to the City of Vancouver water meter per VMC 14.04.140 H.

If you have questions regarding permit requirements, please email eplans@cityofvancouver.us. For questions about a potential environmentally sensitive area, please email a planner at cddplanning@cityofvancouver.us

Are you adding a detached building, including a shop, garage or shed over 120 sq. ft.?

You will need to submit the following items when applying for a residential building permit:

• Completed Residential Addition/Alteration permit application
• The name and phone number of a licensed contractor, if the homeowner is not doing the work
• Plan review fee
• Remodel- based on valuation, including labor and materials
• Addition- based on amount of square footage being added
• Site plan, drawn to scale, indicating size and location of existing and proposed structures and identifying location of septic system (if applicable)
• Detailed construction drawings to scale (1/4″ = 1’)