How Redmond Handles Fire Regulations: A Practical Guide
Redmond maintains 115 local ordinances across all categories, and 7 of those deal specifically with fire regulations. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Redmond falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Brush Clearance
Redmond recommends defensible space clearance of 30 feet around structures per DNR Firewise guidelines; critical areas vegetation is protected under RMC 21.64 and requires city review before removal.
Key details: Recommended Zone: 30 ft defensible space. Critical Areas Code: RMC 21.64. Program: DNR Firewise USA. Permit for Buffer Work: Required. Fire Dept Contact: (425) 556-2200.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Smoke Detectors
Smoke alarms are required in every sleeping room, outside sleeping areas, and on every floor of Redmond homes per IRC R314 as adopted by RMC 15.04, with CO alarms required under RCW 19.27.530.
Key details: Required Locations: Every bedroom, outside bedrooms, each floor. CO Alarm Law: RCW 19.27.530. Code: IRC R314 via RMC 15.04. Rental Rule: Required before occupancy. Free Checks: Redmond Fire Dept.
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 smoke detectors requirements.
Outdoor Burning
Outdoor burning of yard debris is banned year-round in Redmond under Puget Sound Clean Air Agency Regulation 1 and RCW 70.94; only small recreational fires with clean firewood are permitted.
Key details: Yard Debris Burning: Banned year-round. Regulator: PSCAA Regulation 1. State Law: RCW 70.94. Allowed Fires: Recreational only. Max Penalty: Up to $16,000 per day.
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.
Wildfire Zones
Redmond is mapped as moderate wildfire risk by DNR with high-risk pockets in forested north and east neighborhoods abutting Novelty Hill and Watershed Preserve, triggering Firewise guidance and seasonal DNR burn bans.
Key details: Primary Risk Level: Moderate (DNR map). High-Risk Areas: North/east Redmond. State Agency: WA DNR. Seasonal Bans: DNR and PSCAA. Recommended Program: Firewise USA.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Backyard Fires
Backyard recreational fires must use clean firewood in approved pits, stay under 3 feet across, maintain 25 feet clearance, and be continuously attended under IFC 307 as adopted by RMC 15.06.
Key details: Max Diameter: 3 feet. Clearance: 25 ft structures/combustibles. Fuel: Firewood or charcoal only. Attendance: Adult required. Regulator: PSCAA and Redmond Fire.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Fire Pit Rules
Redmond allows small recreational fires in approved pits or containers under IFC 307 as adopted by RMC 15.06, with fuel limited to seasoned firewood and size under 3 feet diameter by 2 feet high.
Key details: Max Size: 3 ft diameter x 2 ft high. Clearance: 25 ft from structures. Approved Fuel: Seasoned firewood only. Code: IFC 307 via RMC 15.06. Air Quality: Check PSCAA burn bans.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Fireworks
Redmond restricts consumer fireworks under RCW 70.77 and RMC 9.60, permitting discharge only on July 4 from 9 AM to 11 PM; sales and possession outside that window are prohibited.
Key details: Legal Discharge Day: July 4 only. Legal Hours: 9 AM to 11 PM. State Law: RCW 70.77. Local Code: RMC 9.60. Illegal Items: Bottle rockets, firecrackers.
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 fire regulations. Out of the 7 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.