Bellevue vs Renton
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Renton, WA?
Bellevue and Renton 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 →Renton, WA
King County
Renton Municipal Code 4-8 and the King County SWDM require grading permits for earth-moving over 50 cubic yards and detailed drainage plans to protect the Cedar River, Black River, and downstream habitat.
View full Renton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Permit threshold | - | More than 50 cubic yards |
| Slope review | - | Geotech required above 15 to 40 percent |
| Flood compensation | - | Storage required for floodplain fills |
| Flow matching | - | 2 and 10 year post equals pre |
| Drainage direction | - | Cannot flow onto neighbors |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
Renton FAQ
Do I need a permit to level my backyard?
Small landscape grading under 50 cubic yards is typically exempt, but any activity in a critical area or over the threshold requires a grading permit.
Can I direct my gutters to the street?
Only through an approved tightline to the city storm system. Untreated discharge to the street can trigger stormwater violations.
Compare other topics
See how Bellevue and Renton compare on other ordinance categories.
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