Federal Way vs Kirkland
How do stormwater management rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Federal Way and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way is an NPDES Phase II city and enforces Department of Ecology stormwater standards. New development and redevelopment over 2,000 sf trigger mitigation under the 2019 stormwater manual.
View full Federal Way rules →Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland follows the Department of Ecology Western Washington Stormwater Manual through KMC Chapter 15 and 115 surface water code, requiring runoff control for new and redeveloped sites.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | NPDES Phase II | - |
| Manual | 2019 DOE Western WA | Ecology Western WA Stormwater |
| Trigger | 2,000 sf new impervious | 2,000 sq ft impervious |
| Illicit discharge | Fines apply | - |
| Code | - | KMC 15 + Title 115 |
| LID Required | - | Where feasible |
| Hotline | - | (425) 587-3800 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Do I need a stormwater plan for a Federal Way addition?
Yes if the project creates more than 2,000 sf of new or replaced impervious surface, and a small-project form may apply at 500 sf.
Can I wash my car in the driveway?
Yes for private residential use; commercial car washing into a storm drain is illicit discharge and is prohibited.
Kirkland FAQ
Do I need stormwater review for a new driveway?
Replacing or expanding impervious surface over the code threshold triggers Kirkland stormwater minimum requirements and often a simplified small-parcel plan set.
Can I wash my car in the driveway?
Occasional residential car washing is allowed, but soapy runoff should be directed to landscaped areas. Commercial washing and fundraisers must use approved capture kits.
Compare other topics
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