Outdoor Burning: Auburn vs Seattle
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Auburn, WA and Seattle, WA?
Auburn and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Outdoor burning is heavily restricted in Auburn. Yard waste and land-clearing burns are banned under PSCAA Regulation I. Only small recreational fires are allowed when no burn ban is active.
View full Auburn rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Open burning in Seattle is prohibited except during approved ceremonial events. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) issues burn bans for King County. Residential outdoor burning is not permitted in Seattle city limits.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Yard Waste Burning | Banned year-round | - |
| Recreational Fires | Allowed under 3 ft | - |
| Agency | PSCAA Regulation I | - |
| Stage 1 Ban | No outdoor wood fires | - |
| State Law | RCW 70.94 Clean Air | RCW 70A.15 / WAC 173-425 |
| Status | - | Open burning prohibited in city limits |
| Authority | - | Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) |
| Exceptions | - | Ceremonial events with SFD permit only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Can I burn leaves or yard waste in Auburn?
No. Yard waste burning is permanently prohibited under PSCAA Regulation I in all urban growth areas including Auburn. Use curbside yard waste collection instead.
What can I legally burn outdoors in Auburn?
Only clean seasoned firewood in a recreational fire up to 3 feet in diameter, and only when PSCAA has not issued a Stage 1 or Stage 2 burn ban.
How do I check if a burn ban is in effect?
Visit the PSCAA website or call their burn ban hotline. Valley Regional Fire Authority also posts current burn status on its website and social media.
Seattle FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Seattle?
Open burning in Seattle is prohibited except during approved ceremonial events. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) issues burn bans for King County. Residential outdoor burning is not permitted in Seattle city limits.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Seattle?
Status: Open burning prohibited in city limits. Authority: Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA). State Law: RCW 70A.15 / WAC 173-425. Exceptions: Ceremonial events with SFD permit only.
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