Fire Pit Rules: Federal Way vs Kirkland
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Federal Way and Kirkland 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 →Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland allows recreational fires in pits under 3 feet wide, 25 feet from structures, with only clean firewood under IFC 307 and PSCAA rules; yard debris burning is banned year-round.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Size | Max 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall | - |
| Clearance | 25 ft from combustibles | 25 feet from structures |
| Code | FWRC 13.31 / 2021 IFC | - |
| Fire Agency | South King Fire and Rescue | - |
| Burn Bans | PSCAA and DNR supersede | - |
| Max Fire Diameter | - | 3 feet |
| Allowed Fuel | - | Clean seasoned firewood only |
| Code Basis | - | IFC 307 via KMC Title 21 |
| Agency | - | PSCAA + Kirkland Fire |
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.
Kirkland FAQ
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit in Kirkland?
No permit is required if the fire is under 3 feet wide, stays 25 feet from structures, and burns only clean firewood or charcoal.
Can I burn yard debris in Kirkland?
No. Residential yard waste burning is banned year-round across the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency region including all of Kirkland.
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