Wildfire Zones: Auburn vs Seattle
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Auburn, WA and Seattle, WA?
Auburn has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn has limited wildfire-urban interface exposure on the Lea Hill plateau and west bluffs. Valley floor is low-risk urban. DNR classifies forested hillsides under RCW 76.04 WUI standards.
View full Auburn rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Eastern unincorporated King County (Skykomish, Snoqualmie, foothills) is mapped by WA DNR as moderate to high wildfire hazard. The Wildland Urban Interface code requires ignition-resistant materials and defensible space.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| High-Risk Areas | Lea Hill, west bluffs | - |
| Valley Risk | Low urban fire risk | - |
| Code | ACC 15.36 WUI amendments | 2021 IWUIC |
| State Classification | WA DNR RCW 76.04 | - |
| Free Assessments | VRFA on request | - |
| High Hazard Areas | - | Skykomish, Snoqualmie |
| Defensible Space | - | 100 ft zones 1-3 |
| Roofing | - | Class A required |
| Fire Marshal | - | 206-296-6533 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Is Auburn in a wildfire zone?
Most of Auburn on the valley floor is low-risk urban. Homes on the Lea Hill plateau, west hill bluffs, and adjoining forested areas are classified as WUI under DNR standards and should follow defensible space guidelines.
Do I need fire-resistant materials for a new home in Auburn?
Yes, if your parcel is mapped in the WUI zone under ACC 15.36. Requirements include Class A roofing, ember-resistant vents, and enclosed eaves. Contact Auburn Community Development for parcel-specific review.
Seattle FAQ
Is my King County property in a wildfire hazard zone?
Check the WA DNR Wildfire Hazard Map or call the King County Fire Marshal at 206-296-6533. Foothill and Cascades properties are commonly mapped as moderate or high hazard and subject to WUI construction standards.
What defensible space is required near my home?
Zone 1 (0-5 ft) noncombustible, Zone 2 (5-30 ft) lean/clean/green with reduced fuels, and Zone 3 (30-100 ft) thinned with ladder fuels removed. These align with IWUIC and DNR Firewise standards.
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