Auburn vs Federal Way
How do native plants rules compare between Auburn, WA and Federal Way, WA?
Auburn and Federal Way have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn encourages native plants under ACC 18.50. Natives satisfy critical area mitigation and stormwater plans. Native yards are exempt from the tall grass rule when intentionally designed and maintained.
View full Auburn rules →Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way encourages native plant landscaping under FWRC 19.125. Natives can meet landscape buffer, parking lot, and critical-area mitigation requirements. SWM promotes natives for stormwater and habitat benefits.
View full Federal Way rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Federal Way |
|---|---|---|
| Encouraged By | ACC 18.50 and 16.10 | - |
| Critical Area Req | Natives required | - |
| Exempt From | Tall grass rule 8.12 | - |
| Permit | Not needed residential | - |
| Free Resource | King Conservation District | - |
| Encouraged | - | Yes |
| Code | - | FWRC 19.125 |
| Critical Areas | - | Natives required |
| Resource | - | SWM / WSU Master Gardeners |
| Goal | - | Habitat + water savings |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Can I replace my lawn with native plants in Auburn?
Yes. Residential conversion to native plant landscape needs no permit and is encouraged under ACC 18.50. Native gardens are exempt from tall grass rules when intentionally designed and maintained.
What native plants work in Auburn yards?
Good choices for the Green River valley include sword fern, red-flowering currant, Oregon grape, vine maple, western red cedar, salal, and Indian plum. King Conservation District sells them at the annual plant sale.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I replace my lawn with native plants?
Yes, and it is encouraged. Native plants reduce irrigation, support habitat, and can meet FWRC 19.125 landscape requirements on lots subject to landscape buffers.
Are there any grants for native plant landscaping?
King County's RainWise program offers rebates in certain sewer basins for rain gardens using native plants. Contact the Federal Way SWM division for eligibility.
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