A method of fabricating an integrated circuit device includes forming a first gate structure in a first region of a substrate and a second gate structure in a second region of the substrate. The method includes forming a protective layer overlying the first and the second gate structures. The method includes removing a portion of the protective layer over the second gate structure. The method includes forming features adjacent to the second gate structure. The method further includes forming a spacer over at least a portion of the features adjacent to the second gate structure, wherein the features separate the spacer from the substrate adjacent to the second gate structure. The method includes removing the second portion of the protective layer. Removing the second portion of the protective layer includes forming a protector over the second gate structure; and performing an etching process using a chemical comprising hydrofluoric acid (HF).