Environmental Rules in Federal Way, WA (2026)
6 verified environmental rules for Federal Way, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Stormwater Management
Federal Way is an NPDES Phase II city and enforces Department of Ecology stormwater standards. New development and redevelopment over 2,000 sf trigger mitigation under the 2019 stormwater manual.
Federal Way Stormwater Rules
Heavy RestrictionsErosion Control
Federal Way requires Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control (TESC) plans for construction projects disturbing 7,000 sf or more per state rules. Silt fencing, cover, and stabilized entrances are standard.
Federal Way Erosion and Sediment Control
Heavy RestrictionsFlood Zones
Federal Way is a FEMA-participating community with floodplain along Hylebos Creek, Lakota Creek, and Puget Sound shoreline. New construction in mapped AE zones requires elevation 1 foot above base flood.
Federal Way Flood Zone Rules (Hylebos Creek and Puget Sound)
Heavy RestrictionsGrading & Drainage
Federal Way requires a grading permit for most cut or fill over 50 cubic yards under FWRC Title 19. Drainage changes must match the DOE Western Washington Stormwater Manual and not harm neighbors.
Federal Way Grading and Drainage Rules
Heavy RestrictionsShoreline Management
Federal Way's Shoreline Master Program is codified in FWRC Title 15, primarily Chapter 15.05. All uses and development in shoreline jurisdiction must conform to RCW 90.58 and the city's SMP regardless of whether a permit is otherwise required.
Federal Way Shoreline Management (FWRC Title 15)
Heavy RestrictionsBoat Dock Permits
Docks, piers, mooring buoys, and floats on Puget Sound or regulated lakes require a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit, Conditional Use, or written exemption under FWRC Chapter 15.05, plus state and federal approvals from WDFW and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Federal Way Boat Dock and Pier Permits (FWRC 15.05)
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for King County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Federal Way city rules.
Environmental Rules in King County →