Brush Clearance: Edmonds vs Everett
How do brush clearance rules compare between Edmonds, WA and Everett, WA?
Edmonds and Everett have similar restriction levels.
Edmonds, WA
Snohomish County
Snohomish County has no single 'clear your brush' ordinance countywide, but the 2021 Washington Wildland-Urban Interface Code applies to new commercial and residential permits on parcels mapped high or very-high wildfire hazard, requiring ignition-resistant construction and driveway/access standards.
View full Edmonds rules →Everett, WA
Snohomish County
Everett requires property owners to maintain clearance around structures. Wildfire risk increasing in WA. Firewise communities growing statewide.
View full Everett rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Edmonds | Everett |
|---|---|---|
| Governing code | 2021 WA WUI Code (RCW 19.27.560) | - |
| Effective | Statewide July 1, 2023 | - |
| Applies to | High/very-high hazard parcels | - |
| Driveway trigger | Wall >150 ft from access road | - |
| Ask | Snohomish County Fire Marshal | - |
| Clearance | - | Per city fire code |
| Vacant Lots | - | Must be maintained |
| Wildfire Risk | - | Increasing statewide |
| Firewise | - | DNR program available |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Edmonds FAQ
Does Snohomish County require me to clear brush around my house?
There is no blanket county brush-clearing rule. Wildfire defensible-space and ignition-resistant requirements apply through the WUI Code when you build or substantially alter on a parcel mapped high or very-high wildfire hazard.
What triggers wildfire construction rules?
Issuing a commercial or residential building permit on a parcel identified as high hazard or very high hazard on the state or local wildfire risk map triggers the WUI Code's class-1 ignition-resistant standards.
Everett FAQ
How much clearance do I need?
Check Everett fire code. No statewide standard in Washington - requirements vary by city.
What about wildfire risk?
Wildfire risk is increasing in WA. Consider Firewise landscaping, especially near forested areas.
Compare other topics
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