Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
🌿 Landscaping Rules/Water Restrictions

Auburn vs Federal Way

How do water restrictions rules compare between Auburn, WA and Federal Way, WA?

Federal Way has fewer restrictions than Auburn.

Auburn, WA

King County

Some Restrictions

Auburn Utilities uses voluntary lawn watering guidelines May-September with odd-even schedules and watering before 10 AM or after 6 PM. Mandatory drought restrictions activate under ACC 13.06.

View full Auburn rules →

Federal Way, WA

King County

Few Restrictions

Lakehaven Water and Sewer District serves Federal Way and promotes voluntary conservation year-round. No standing odd/even watering days. Mandatory restrictions apply only during declared drought emergencies.

View full Federal Way rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactAuburnFederal Way
CodeACC Chapter 13.06-
Voluntary SeasonMay through September-
Normal ScheduleOdd-even, 2-3 days-
Stage 2 Limit2 days per week-
Max Fine$500 mandatory stages-
Water Provider-Lakehaven Water & Sewer
Source-Green River + local wells
Standing Restriction-None (voluntary)
Drought Law-RCW 90.54
Contact-(253) 941-1516

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Auburn FAQ

When can I water my lawn in Auburn?

Under voluntary guidelines, follow an odd-even address schedule 2 to 3 days per week, watering before 10 AM or after 6 PM. Mandatory restrictions activate under ACC 13.06 during drought.

Are there rebates for water-saving landscape in Auburn?

Yes. Auburn partners with the Saving Water Partnership to offer WaterSmart rebates on smart irrigation controllers, rain sensors, and high-efficiency fixtures.

Federal Way FAQ

Are there watering day restrictions in Federal Way?

Not normally. Lakehaven uses a tiered conservation rate structure year-round. Mandatory odd/even watering applies only during declared drought emergencies.

Can I collect rainwater from my roof in Federal Way?

Yes. Washington RCW 36.89.080 allows rooftop rainwater harvesting without a water rights permit. Collection into rain barrels or cisterns is encouraged for garden use.

Compare other topics

See how Auburn and Federal Way compare on other ordinance categories.

Want to add a third city?

Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.

Open Comparison Tool