Dark Sky Rules: Federal Way vs Redmond
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Redmond, WA?
Federal Way and Redmond 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 →Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond requires shielded, downward-directed outdoor lighting in commercial and multifamily projects under RMC Title 21 to limit light pollution and preserve nighttime views near parks.
View full Redmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| Policy type | Shielded-only, not full dark-sky | - |
| Pole height | ~25 ft commercial max | - |
| Residential | Nuisance rule applies | Nuisance standard only |
| Flashing lights | Prohibited absent permit | - |
| Commercial | - | Full-cutoff luminaires required |
| Color temp | - | 3000K-4000K cap |
| Parks edge | - | Stricter standards apply |
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.
Redmond FAQ
Does Redmond have a dark-sky ordinance?
Redmond's commercial and multifamily lighting rules function as a dark-sky-style standard with shielding and brightness limits.
Are my home porch lights regulated?
Single-family residential lighting is generally unregulated unless it creates a nuisance for neighbors or illegal glare onto streets.
Compare other topics
See how Federal Way and Redmond compare on other ordinance categories.
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