Backyard Fires: Federal Way vs Kent
How do backyard fires rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kent, WA?
Federal Way and Kent have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Backyard recreational fires are allowed in Federal Way under FWRC 13.31. Fires must be under 3 ft wide and 2 ft tall, use clean firewood, be supervised, and sit 25 ft from structures. Burn bans override.
View full Federal Way rules →Kent, WA
King County
Backyard fires in Kent must use clean firewood in a contained pit under 3 feet wide, stay 25 feet from structures, and stop during any PSCAA burn ban. Grill cooking is always allowed.
View full Kent rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| Max Pit Size | 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall | - |
| Clearance | 25 ft from structures | - |
| Fuel | Clean firewood only | Clean firewood or manufactured logs |
| Burn Ban Check | pscleanair.gov / dnr.wa.gov | - |
| Code | FWRC 13.31 | - |
| Pit size limit | - | 3 feet wide, 2 feet tall |
| Setback | - | 25 feet from structures and fences |
| Supervision | - | Adult present with water nearby |
| Burn ban check | - | PSCAA before every fire |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire in Federal Way on the Fourth of July?
Sometimes. Small recreational fires are allowed under FWRC 13.31, but July often sees PSCAA or DNR burn bans that prohibit them. Check current burn-ban status before lighting.
Is a gas fire pit treated the same as wood?
No. Propane and natural gas outdoor fireplaces face fewer restrictions than wood fires and usually stay legal even during Stage 1 burn bans. Stage 2 bans can include them.
Kent FAQ
Can I use a chiminea or gas fire table on my deck?
Gas fire tables are allowed on decks per manufacturer specs. Wood chimineas must follow the 25-foot setback and are generally kept on patios, not elevated wood decks.
What if my neighbor burns garbage?
Report to the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority or PSCAA. Burning garbage is illegal and carries significant fines.
Compare other topics
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