Redmond's Environmental Rules: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles environmental rules a little differently. In Redmond, Washington, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.
Flood Zones
Redmond participates in the NFIP and regulates construction in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas along Bear Creek, Evans Creek, and the Sammamish River. Critical areas code adds 1-2 ft freeboard.
Key details: Program: NFIP participant. Main floodplains: Bear Creek and Sammamish River. Freeboard: 1-2 ft above BFE. Substantial improvement: 50% rule applies.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Redmond actively enforces its flood zones requirements.
Grading & Drainage
Redmond requires a grading permit for earthwork over 50 cubic yards or grading in critical areas under RMC Title 15, with drainage review by Public Works based on the DOE Stormwater Manual.
Key details: Permit trigger: 50 cubic yards cut or fill. Critical area: Any grading needs review. Wall engineering: Over 4 ft exposed. Drainage: DOE manual standards.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Erosion Control
Redmond requires construction-phase erosion and sediment control BMPs on any ground disturbance over 2,000 sf under RMC Title 15 and the DOE Stormwater Manual, with daily inspection during wet season.
Key details: Trigger: 2,000 sf disturbance. SWPPP: Required with permit. Wet season: Oct 1 to Apr 30. State permit: 1 acre triggers CSWGP.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is one of the stricter rules in Redmond's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Stormwater Management
Redmond is an NPDES Phase II city and enforces Department of Ecology stormwater standards. Development over 2,000 sf of new or replaced impervious surface must mitigate runoff.
Key details: Permit: NPDES Phase II. Manual: DOE 2019 Western WA. Trigger: 2,000 sf new impervious. Salmon basins: Bear Creek, Sammamish River.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is one of the stricter rules in Redmond's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
The Bottom Line
Redmond is tougher than many cities when it comes to environmental rules. Out of the 4 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Redmond, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
This guide is based on Redmond's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.