Federal Way single-family setbacks under FWRC 19 are typically 20 ft front, 5 ft side, and 5 ft rear in RS zones. Corner lots, accessory structures, and critical areas change the numbers.
Federal Way zoning is governed by Federal Way Revised Code Title 19. In the common Single-Family Residential (RS 35.0, RS 15.0, RS 9.6, RS 7.2, RS 5.0) zones, the standard minimum setbacks for a principal dwelling are 20 feet front (measured to the porch), 5 feet on each interior side, and 5 feet at the rear. Corner lots must observe a second front setback on the street side. Garages accessed from an alley may have reduced rear setbacks. Accessory structures and ADUs follow their own setback schedule (typically 5 ft side and rear). Multi-family and commercial districts along Pacific Highway South and South 320th Street have larger setbacks tied to building height. Critical areas (steep slopes, streams, Hylebos Creek corridor, Steel Lake, Mirror Lake shorelines) add a buffer on top of the zoning setback. Encroachments (eaves, chimneys, bay windows) are allowed up to 18 inches into a required setback.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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