Federal Way vs Kirkland
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Federal Way and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way requires a grading permit for most cut or fill over 50 cubic yards under FWRC Title 19. Drainage changes must match the DOE Western Washington Stormwater Manual and not harm neighbors.
View full Federal Way rules →Kirkland, WA
King County
Grading permits are required in Kirkland for fills, cuts, and landscape regrades beyond thresholds in KMC Title 115, with drainage plans reviewed by Public Works under the Ecology Stormwater Manual.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Permit trigger | 50 cy cut or fill | - |
| Disturbance | 7,000 sf | - |
| Steep slopes | Geotech at >15% | - |
| Retaining walls | Permit over 4 ft | - |
| Permit Trigger | - | 50 cubic yards or 7,000 sq ft |
| Retaining Wall | - | Over 4 feet needs permit |
| Roof Drains | - | Must be tightlined |
| Flow Control | - | Match pre-development |
| Code | - | KMC Title 115 + Ecology |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Do I need a permit to regrade my Federal Way yard?
Yes if you move more than 50 cubic yards, disturb over 7,000 sf, or change drainage affecting a neighbor.
Can I add fill in a floodplain?
Fill in a floodway is prohibited; in the flood fringe it requires permits and compensating storage in many cases.
Kirkland FAQ
Can I regrade my Kirkland backyard without a permit?
Small landscape grading under 50 cubic yards on flat ground usually does not require a permit, but steep slopes, critical areas, or larger cuts and fills trigger review.
Can I let my gutter water spill onto the ground?
No. Kirkland code requires roof drains to connect to a tightline that discharges to an approved location; surface release that causes erosion or neighbor impacts violates the drainage code.
Compare other topics
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