Wildfire Zones: Auburn vs Federal Way
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Auburn, WA and Federal Way, WA?
Auburn and Federal Way have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn has limited wildfire-urban interface exposure on the Lea Hill plateau and west bluffs. Valley floor is low-risk urban. DNR classifies forested hillsides under RCW 76.04 WUI standards.
View full Auburn rules →Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way is rated low-to-moderate wildfire risk by DNR. No formal Wildland-Urban Interface overlay applies, but forested green belts and BPA corridors elevate local risk. Burn bans enforce during drought.
View full Federal Way rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Federal Way |
|---|---|---|
| High-Risk Areas | Lea Hill, west bluffs | - |
| Valley Risk | Low urban fire risk | - |
| Code | ACC 15.36 WUI amendments | - |
| State Classification | WA DNR RCW 76.04 | - |
| Free Assessments | VRFA on request | - |
| Risk Rating | - | Low to moderate |
| WUI Code | - | Not adopted locally |
| Fire Agency | - | South King Fire and Rescue |
| Risk Factor | - | Green belts, BPA corridors |
| State Law | - | RCW 76.04 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Is Auburn in a wildfire zone?
Most of Auburn on the valley floor is low-risk urban. Homes on the Lea Hill plateau, west hill bluffs, and adjoining forested areas are classified as WUI under DNR standards and should follow defensible space guidelines.
Do I need fire-resistant materials for a new home in Auburn?
Yes, if your parcel is mapped in the WUI zone under ACC 15.36. Requirements include Class A roofing, ember-resistant vents, and enclosed eaves. Contact Auburn Community Development for parcel-specific review.
Federal Way FAQ
Is Federal Way a high wildfire risk area?
No. DNR rates it low-to-moderate. Forested green belts and power-line corridors elevate localized risk, especially during drought summers.
Does Federal Way have a Wildland-Urban Interface code?
No. Washington adopted the IWUIC in 2024 but the city has not adopted WUI-specific defensible space requirements. Standard fire code FWRC 13.31 applies.
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