▼

PALS - Height / Setbacks

Show All Answers

1. What is the setback requirement from an easement?

A setback is the minimum required distance between any structure and a property line. Setbacks are measured from the property line, or from the edge of a road right-of-way, easement or tract that provides access. Additional setbacks are not typically required from all other easements. Structures are not allowed within an easement without the specific consent of the easement owner.

2. What are my setbacks?

Setback areas must remain free of structures. Building setbacks are set based on a property zone classification. Title 18A - Development Regulations - Zoning provides density and dimension tables which specify setbacks for interior, rear and yards abutting roads. The development regulations also provide certain setback exceptions, in 18A.15.040. Building setbacks are measured from the property line. In some instances, a special use permit has been granted which may allow a different setback than what is currently permitted. You can check to see if that is the case for your property by visiting the Pierce County Auditors office to see if there are any recorded documents that indicate previous land use decisions for your property. If so, land use files are available for viewing at the Pierce County Annex, Current Planning Office between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM on weekdays.

3. How tall can my house/structure be?

The height limit for your property is based on your zone classification Title 18A - Development Regulations - Zoning provides density and dimension tables that specify the height limits allowed for each zone. 'Building Height' is the vertical distance from the average elevation of the finished grade of each building wall to the top of a flat or shed roof, or the deck level on a mansard roof, and the average distance between the bottom of the eaves to the highest point of a pitched, hipped, gambrel, or gable roof.