Fire Pit Rules: Auburn vs Federal Way
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Auburn, WA and Federal Way, WA?
Auburn and Federal Way have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn permits small recreational fires under ACC 15.36 (2021 IFC). Fires must be under 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall, with 25 ft clearance, clean firewood, and adult supervision. PSCAA burn bans override.
View full Auburn rules →Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way allows recreational fire pits under FWRC 13.31 (2021 IFC). Fires must be under 3 ft wide and 2 ft tall, use clean firewood, and be supervised with water nearby. Burn bans override local rules.
View full Federal Way rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Federal Way |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Size | Max 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall | Max 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall |
| Clearance | 25 ft from structures | 25 ft from combustibles |
| Code | ACC 8.12 and 15.36 | FWRC 13.31 / 2021 IFC |
| Fire Agency | Valley Regional Fire Authority | South King Fire and Rescue |
| Burn Bans | PSCAA and DNR supersede | PSCAA and DNR supersede |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Can I have a fire pit in my Auburn backyard?
Yes. Recreational fires up to 3 ft wide and 2 ft tall are allowed under ACC 15.36 and the 2021 IFC, with 25 ft clearance from combustibles, clean firewood only, and an adult supervising at all times.
Do I need a permit for a recreational fire in Auburn?
No permit is required for a standard recreational fire that meets size and setback rules. Larger ceremonial or bonfire-style fires require a permit from Valley Regional Fire Authority.
Can I burn during a PSCAA burn ban?
No. When Puget Sound Clean Air Agency issues a Stage 1 or Stage 2 burn ban, all recreational outdoor wood fires are prohibited in Auburn. Gas and propane devices are typically still allowed.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in Federal Way?
Yes. Recreational fires are allowed in pits up to 3 ft wide and 2 ft tall under FWRC 13.31, using clean firewood only, with 25 ft clearance from combustibles and an adult supervising.
Do I need a permit for a fire pit?
No permit is needed for standard recreational fires that meet size and setback rules. Larger ceremonial fires may require a South King Fire and Rescue permit.
What can I burn in a Federal Way fire pit?
Only clean, dry, seasoned firewood. Burning trash, yard waste, treated or painted wood, plastics, or construction debris is prohibited under the International Fire Code.
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