Federal Way vs Kirkland
How do bin placement rules rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Kirkland has fewer restrictions than Federal Way.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way requires garbage, recycling, and yard waste carts to be at the curb by 7 a.m. on collection day and returned the same day. Carts cannot block sidewalks, bike lanes, hydrants, or vehicle sight lines.
View full Federal Way rules →Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland residents must place carts curbside by 6 AM on collection day with 3 feet of clearance and handles facing the house. Carts must be removed within 24 hours after pickup.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Set Out | By 7 a.m., no earlier than 6 p.m. prior | - |
| Return | Same day, stored out of view | - |
| Spacing | 3 ft between carts | - |
| No Blocking | Sidewalks, hydrants, bike lanes | - |
| Set Out Time | - | By 6 AM collection day |
| Remove By | - | Within 24 hours |
| Clearance | - | 3 feet from obstacles |
| Handle Direction | - | Facing house |
| Hauler | - | Waste Management |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I leave my Federal Way trash cart at the curb all week?
No. Federal Way requires carts to be returned to a concealed location on your property by the end of collection day. Permanent curbside storage is a code violation under FWRC Title 1.
Where do I place my cart if I have no curb?
Place the cart at the edge of your driveway near the road, wheels toward the house, so the automated arm can reach it. Keep it off sidewalks and bike lanes.
Kirkland FAQ
When should I take my cart back in?
Within 24 hours of collection. Carts should not be stored in public view at the curb between pickup days.
How far apart should the carts be?
At least 3 feet of clearance between carts and any obstruction such as mailboxes, cars, trees, or utility poles to allow the automated collection arm to operate.
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