Auburn vs Kirkland
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Auburn, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Auburn and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Grading permits are required in Auburn for fills, cuts, and landscape regrades beyond thresholds in ACC Title 15, with drainage plans reviewed by Public Works under the Ecology Stormwater Manual.
View full Auburn rules →Kirkland, WA
King County
Grading permits are required in Kirkland for fills, cuts, and landscape regrades beyond thresholds in KMC Title 115, with drainage plans reviewed by Public Works under the Ecology Stormwater Manual.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Trigger | 50 cubic yards or 7,000 sq ft | 50 cubic yards or 7,000 sq ft |
| Retaining Wall | Over 4 feet needs permit | Over 4 feet needs permit |
| Roof Drains | Must be tightlined | Must be tightlined |
| Flow Control | Match pre-development | Match pre-development |
| Code | ACC Title 15 + Ecology | KMC Title 115 + Ecology |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Can I regrade my Auburn backyard without a permit?
Small landscape grading under 50 cubic yards on flat ground usually does not require a permit, but West Hill or Lea Hill steep slopes, critical areas, or larger cuts and fills trigger review.
Can I let my gutter water spill onto the ground?
No. Auburn code requires roof drains to connect to a tightline that discharges to an approved location; surface release that causes erosion or neighbor impacts violates the drainage code.
Kirkland FAQ
Can I regrade my Kirkland backyard without a permit?
Small landscape grading under 50 cubic yards on flat ground usually does not require a permit, but steep slopes, critical areas, or larger cuts and fills trigger review.
Can I let my gutter water spill onto the ground?
No. Kirkland code requires roof drains to connect to a tightline that discharges to an approved location; surface release that causes erosion or neighbor impacts violates the drainage code.
Compare other topics
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