Fire Pit Rules: Federal Way vs Kent
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kent, WA?
Federal Way and Kent have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way allows recreational fire pits under FWRC 13.31 (2021 IFC). Fires must be under 3 ft wide and 2 ft tall, use clean firewood, and be supervised with water nearby. Burn bans override local rules.
View full Federal Way rules →Kent, WA
King County
Kent allows small recreational fires in portable pits or contained rings when no PSCAA burn ban is active. Fires must be under 3 feet wide, burn only clean dry firewood, and be attended at all times.
View full Kent rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Size | Max 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall | - |
| Clearance | 25 ft from combustibles | - |
| Code | FWRC 13.31 / 2021 IFC | - |
| Fire Agency | South King Fire and Rescue | - |
| Burn Bans | PSCAA and DNR supersede | - |
| Max pit size | - | 3 feet diameter, 2 feet tall |
| Setback from structures | - | 25 feet minimum |
| Allowed fuel | - | Clean seasoned firewood only |
| Supervision | - | Adult attended at all times |
| Authority | - | Puget Sound RFA, PSCAA burn bans |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in Federal Way?
Yes. Recreational fires are allowed in pits up to 3 ft wide and 2 ft tall under FWRC 13.31, using clean firewood only, with 25 ft clearance from combustibles and an adult supervising.
Do I need a permit for a fire pit?
No permit is needed for standard recreational fires that meet size and setback rules. Larger ceremonial fires may require a South King Fire and Rescue permit.
What can I burn in a Federal Way fire pit?
Only clean, dry, seasoned firewood. Burning trash, yard waste, treated or painted wood, plastics, or construction debris is prohibited under the International Fire Code.
Kent FAQ
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit?
No permit is required for recreational fires under 3 feet wide using clean firewood, provided no burn ban is in effect and the 25-foot setback is maintained.
How do I check for a burn ban?
Visit pscleanair.gov or call the PSCAA burn ban hotline before lighting any outdoor fire in Kent. Bans are common in summer and winter.
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