Dark Sky Rules: Federal Way vs Kirkland
How do dark sky 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 has no International Dark-Sky ordinance but requires shielded, full-cutoff outdoor lighting on new commercial and multi-family projects under FWRC 19 landscape and design standards.
View full Federal Way rules →Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland outdoor lighting standards in KMC Title 115 require shielded fixtures and limit light spill across property lines to protect neighbors and night-sky quality along the Lake Washington shoreline.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Policy type | Shielded-only, not full dark-sky | - |
| Pole height | ~25 ft commercial max | - |
| Residential | Nuisance rule applies | - |
| Flashing lights | Prohibited absent permit | - |
| Code | - | KMC Title 115 |
| Shielding | - | Full cutoff typical |
| Aiming | - | Downward, no trespass |
| Shoreline | - | Minimize over-water light |
| Plan | - | Photometrics for commercial |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Does Federal Way have a dark-sky law?
Not a formal one, but commercial lighting must be shielded and cutoff to limit glare onto neighboring property.
Can my business use uplighting?
Generally yes if shielded, aimed away from streets, and not a traffic or neighbor nuisance.
Kirkland FAQ
Can I install floodlights on my Kirkland garage?
Yes, if fixtures are shielded, aimed downward, and do not spill onto neighboring yards. Bright unshielded floodlights that reach neighbor windows often trigger a nuisance complaint.
Is Kirkland an official dark-sky community?
Kirkland is not certified by DarkSky International, but its outdoor lighting standards align with dark-sky principles by requiring shielded, downward-directed lighting.
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