Backyard Fires: Auburn vs Kent
How do backyard fires rules compare between Auburn, WA and Kent, WA?
Auburn and Kent have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Backyard fires in Auburn follow ACC 15.36: under 3 ft wide, 25 ft clearance, clean firewood only, adult supervision. Chimineas and manufactured fire pits allowed when used per maker instructions.
View full Auburn rules →Kent, WA
King County
Backyard fires in Kent must use clean firewood in a contained pit under 3 feet wide, stay 25 feet from structures, and stop during any PSCAA burn ban. Grill cooking is always allowed.
View full Kent rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| Max Size | 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall | - |
| Clearance | 25 ft from structures | - |
| Chiminea Clearance | 10 ft enclosed units | - |
| Fuel | Clean firewood only | Clean firewood or manufactured logs |
| Supervision | Adult required | Adult present with water nearby |
| Pit size limit | - | 3 feet wide, 2 feet tall |
| Setback | - | 25 feet from structures and fences |
| Burn ban check | - | PSCAA before every fire |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Can I use a chiminea on my Auburn patio?
Yes, if placed on a non-combustible surface with 10 ft clearance from walls and eaves, used per manufacturer instructions, with an adult present and water nearby.
Are gas fire tables affected by burn bans?
Generally no. PSCAA Stage 1 and 2 burn bans target wood fires. Gas and propane fire tables remain legal during most burn bans, but always verify with PSCAA during Stage 2 events.
My neighbor complains about smoke from my fire pit. Is that a violation?
Possibly. PSCAA Regulation I Section 9.11 prohibits nuisance smoke that unreasonably interferes with neighbors enjoyment of property. Use only seasoned dry wood and avoid smoldering fires.
Kent FAQ
Can I use a chiminea or gas fire table on my deck?
Gas fire tables are allowed on decks per manufacturer specs. Wood chimineas must follow the 25-foot setback and are generally kept on patios, not elevated wood decks.
What if my neighbor burns garbage?
Report to the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority or PSCAA. Burning garbage is illegal and carries significant fines.
Compare other topics
See how Auburn and Kent compare on other ordinance categories.
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