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🌿 Landscaping Rules/Native Plants

Bellevue vs Federal Way

How do native plants rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Federal Way, WA?

Bellevue and Federal Way have similar restriction levels.

Bellevue, WA

King County

Few Restrictions

Bellevue encourages native Pacific Northwest plants through NatureMapping and Salmon-Safe programs; Critical Areas Ordinance often requires native species for mitigation planting.

View full Bellevue rules →

Federal Way, WA

King County

Few Restrictions

Federal Way encourages native plant landscaping under FWRC 19.125. Natives can meet landscape buffer, parking lot, and critical-area mitigation requirements. SWM promotes natives for stormwater and habitat benefits.

View full Federal Way rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactBellevueFederal Way
--
Encouraged-Yes
Code-FWRC 19.125
Critical Areas-Natives required
Resource-SWM / WSU Master Gardeners
Goal-Habitat + water savings

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Bellevue FAQ

Federal Way FAQ

Can I replace my lawn with native plants?

Yes, and it is encouraged. Native plants reduce irrigation, support habitat, and can meet FWRC 19.125 landscape requirements on lots subject to landscape buffers.

Are there any grants for native plant landscaping?

King County's RainWise program offers rebates in certain sewer basins for rain gardens using native plants. Contact the Federal Way SWM division for eligibility.

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