Federal Way vs Redmond
How do grass height limits rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Redmond, WA?
Redmond has fewer restrictions than Federal Way.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way has no specific grass-height number but prohibits overgrown grass and weeds that create nuisances or fire hazards under FWRC Title 22 and the IPMC. Grass over 10-12 in typically triggers complaints.
View full Federal Way rules →Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond has no specific grass height ordinance, but RMC 8.24 nuisance provisions address overgrown vegetation that harbors vermin or creates fire hazards; most residents maintain lawns voluntarily.
View full Redmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| Height Limit | No hard number, typ. 10-12 in | - |
| Code | FWRC 22 + IPMC | - |
| Noxious Weeds | Prohibited (RCW 17.10) | - |
| ROW Mowing | City mows shoulders | - |
| Enforcement | Complaint-based | Complaint-based |
| Specific Height Limit | - | None |
| Nuisance Code | - | RMC 8.24 |
| Native Plants | - | Allowed and encouraged |
| Contact | - | Code Enforcement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
How tall can my grass be in Federal Way before I get cited?
The city does not publish a strict inch limit, but code compliance generally acts on overgrown vegetation over roughly 10 to 12 inches when it creates a nuisance, fire hazard, or pest harborage.
Who mows the grass strip between sidewalk and street?
Responsibility is shared. City crews mow shoulders seasonally, but adjacent property owners are expected to maintain the right-of-way up to the edge of the street.
Redmond FAQ
Is there a maximum lawn height in Redmond?
No specific inch limit exists. Redmond enforces overgrown lawns only as nuisances when they harbor pests or create hazards under RMC 8.24.
Can I replace my lawn with a native meadow?
Yes. Native and drought-tolerant landscaping is encouraged and exempt from typical neglect concerns when intentionally managed.
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