Bellevue vs Kirkland
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Bellevue and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Bellevue, WA
King County
Bellevue requires grading permits for moving over 50 cubic yards of earth or disturbing over 2,000 sq ft. Drainage must meet the 2022 Stormwater Management Manual for Western Washington.
View full Bellevue 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 | Bellevue | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Permit Trigger | - | 50 cubic yards or 7,000 sq ft |
| Retaining Wall | - | Over 4 feet needs permit |
| Roof Drains | - | Must be tightlined |
| Flow Control | - | Match pre-development |
| Code | - | KMC Title 115 + Ecology |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
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.
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