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Animal Ordinances in Federal Way, WA (2026)

7 verified animal ordinances for Federal Way, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Chickens & Livestock

Federal Way allows up to 4 small domestic fowl (hens) on residential lots under 35,000 sq ft, with larger limits on bigger lots. Roosters are restricted. Coops need 10-foot setbacks from property lines under FWRC 19.260.

Federal Way Backyard Chickens and Livestock

Some Restrictions

Dog Leash Laws

Federal Way requires dogs to be leashed in public under KCC 11.04, leash no longer than 8 feet. Off-leash is allowed only at designated parks like Wedgewood Dog Park and French Lake Off-Leash Area.

Federal Way Dog Leash Law

Some Restrictions

Breed Restrictions

Federal Way does not impose breed-specific legislation. Dangerous dog rules apply based on individual behavior under RCW 16.08 and King County Code Title 11, regardless of breed.

Federal Way Dog Breed Restrictions

Few Restrictions

Beekeeping

Federal Way allows residential beekeeping under FWRC 19.260. Up to 4 hives on standard lots with 10-ft setbacks. Flyway barrier required within 25 ft of a neighbor. WSDA registration over 5 hives.

Federal Way Beekeeping Rules

Some Restrictions

Exotic Pets

Federal Way prohibits dangerous exotic animals under RCW 16.30 and KCC Title 11. Large cats, primates, bears, crocodilians, and venomous reptiles are banned. Common reptiles and small mammals are allowed.

Federal Way Exotic and Dangerous Animals

Heavy Restrictions

Wildlife Feeding

Federal Way prohibits feeding wildlife that creates nuisance or attracts predators under WAC 232-36 and FWRC nuisance code. Feeding bears, coyotes, and raccoons is banned. Bird feeders are allowed.

Federal Way Wildlife Feeding Rules

Some Restrictions

Livestock

Large livestock in Federal Way are restricted to Suburban Estate zones and larger rural lots under FWRC 19.195. Minimum acreage per animal required. Most residential zones prohibit livestock.

Federal Way Livestock Rules

Heavy Restrictions

Looking for King County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Federal Way city rules.

Animal Ordinances in King County