Wildfire Zones: Bellevue vs Seattle
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Seattle, WA?
Bellevue has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Bellevue, WA
King County
Bellevue is not in a state-designated wildfire hazard zone, but Wildland Urban Interface areas near Cougar Mountain, Somerset, and Lakemont face moderate risk from forested park boundaries.
View full Bellevue 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 | Bellevue | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Code | - | 2021 IWUIC |
| 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.
Bellevue FAQ
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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