Invasive Plant Rules in Federal Way, WA (2026)
2 verified invasive plant rules for Federal Way, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Prohibited Species
Federal Way's property maintenance code bans noxious weeds outright and caps other weed growth at six inches on developed property or 12 inches on vacant land under FWRC 13.43.030(20), amending the 2021 International Property Maintenance Code. The city's own zoning definition of "invasive species" points to the King County noxious weed control board's list to identify which plants count.
Federal Way Noxious Weed Prohibition
Significant RestrictionsFWRC 13.43.030(20)
(20) IPMC 302.4, Weeds, is hereby amended to read as follows: All premises and exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds or plant growth in excess of six inches in height on development property or 12 inches in height on vacant land. All noxious weeds shall be prohibited. Weeds shall be defined as all grasses, annual plants, and vegetation, other than trees or shrubs; however, this ...
Tree-of-Heaven Removal
Federal Way's landscaping code singles out Ailanthus altissima, Tree of Heaven, by name and bars planting it within 25 feet of a right-of-way or sewer line under FWRC 19.125.085. Anyone who violates the setback is liable for any damage the tree causes.
Federal Way Tree of Heaven Planting Limit
Some RestrictionsFWRC 19.125.085
(1) The following types of trees may not be planted closer than the listed minimum planting distance to rights-of-way or sewers: ... Ailathus altisinia (Tree of Heaven) 25' ... (2) In addition to any other enforcement mechanism or penalty contained within or authorized by this chapter, any person violating this provision is responsible for any damage caused by the tree or trees.
Looking for King County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Federal Way city rules.
Invasive Plant Rules in King County →