Federal Way vs Redmond
How do native plants rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Redmond, WA?
Federal Way and Redmond have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way encourages native plant landscaping under FWRC 19.125. Natives can meet landscape buffer, parking lot, and critical-area mitigation requirements. SWM promotes natives for stormwater and habitat benefits.
View full Federal Way rules →Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond strongly encourages native plantings through its Green Redmond Partnership and requires native species in critical area mitigation plantings under RMC 21.64 and 21.72.
View full Redmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| Encouraged | Yes | - |
| Code | FWRC 19.125 | - |
| Critical Areas | Natives required | - |
| Resource | SWM / WSU Master Gardeners | - |
| Goal | Habitat + water savings | - |
| City Program | - | Green Redmond Partnership |
| Required For | - | Critical area mitigation |
| Recommended Species | - | W. red cedar, sword fern |
| Plant Sale | - | King Conservation District |
| Discouraged | - | English ivy, blackberry |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I replace my lawn with native plants?
Yes, and it is encouraged. Native plants reduce irrigation, support habitat, and can meet FWRC 19.125 landscape requirements on lots subject to landscape buffers.
Are there any grants for native plant landscaping?
King County's RainWise program offers rebates in certain sewer basins for rain gardens using native plants. Contact the Federal Way SWM division for eligibility.
Redmond FAQ
Do I have to plant natives in my Redmond yard?
Not in a typical yard. Natives are only required for critical area mitigation and some tree replacement plantings.
Where can I buy native plants?
King Conservation District hosts an annual spring native plant sale, and local nurseries stock PNW native species.
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