Dark Sky Rules: Bellevue vs Federal Way
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Federal Way, WA?
Bellevue and Federal Way have similar restriction levels.
Bellevue, WA
King County
Bellevue is not a designated dark-sky community but regulates outdoor lighting via LUC 20.20.522. Fixtures must be shielded and directed downward to prevent glare.
View full Bellevue rules →Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way has no International Dark-Sky ordinance but requires shielded, full-cutoff outdoor lighting on new commercial and multi-family projects under FWRC 19 landscape and design standards.
View full Federal Way rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Federal Way |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Policy type | - | Shielded-only, not full dark-sky |
| Pole height | - | ~25 ft commercial max |
| Residential | - | Nuisance rule applies |
| Flashing lights | - | Prohibited absent permit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
Federal Way FAQ
Does Federal Way have a dark-sky law?
Not a formal one, but commercial lighting must be shielded and cutoff to limit glare onto neighboring property.
Can my business use uplighting?
Generally yes if shielded, aimed away from streets, and not a traffic or neighbor nuisance.
Compare other topics
See how Bellevue and Federal Way compare on other ordinance categories.
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