Auburn vs Federal Way
How do stormwater management rules compare between Auburn, WA and Federal Way, WA?
Auburn and Federal Way have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn follows the Department of Ecology Western Washington Stormwater Manual through ACC Title 13 surface water code, requiring runoff control for new and redeveloped sites in the Green River watershed.
View full Auburn rules →Federal Way, WA
King County
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.
View full Federal Way rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Federal Way |
|---|---|---|
| Code | ACC 13 + Title 17 | - |
| Manual | Ecology Western WA Stormwater | 2019 DOE Western WA |
| Trigger | 2,000 sq ft impervious | 2,000 sf new impervious |
| LID Required | Where feasible | - |
| Hotline | (253) 931-3048 | - |
| Permit | - | NPDES Phase II |
| Illicit discharge | - | Fines apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Do I need stormwater review for a new driveway?
Replacing or expanding impervious surface over the code threshold triggers Auburn stormwater minimum requirements and often a simplified small-parcel plan set.
Can I wash my car in the driveway?
Occasional residential car washing is allowed, but soapy runoff should be directed to landscaped areas. Commercial washing and fundraisers must use approved capture kits.
Federal Way FAQ
Do I need a stormwater plan for a Federal Way addition?
Yes if the project creates more than 2,000 sf of new or replaced impervious surface, and a small-project form may apply at 500 sf.
Can I wash my car in the driveway?
Yes for private residential use; commercial car washing into a storm drain is illicit discharge and is prohibited.
Compare other topics
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