Backyard Fires: Federal Way vs Renton
How do backyard fires rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Renton, WA?
Federal Way and Renton have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Backyard recreational fires are allowed in Federal Way under FWRC 13.31. Fires must be under 3 ft wide and 2 ft tall, use clean firewood, be supervised, and sit 25 ft from structures. Burn bans override.
View full Federal Way rules →Renton, WA
King County
Recreational backyard fires in Renton must follow IFC 307 via RMC 4-5-070: 3 feet wide, 2 feet tall, seasoned wood, 25-foot setback, attended. PSCAA Stage 2 bans prohibit all outdoor burning.
View full Renton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| Max Pit Size | 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall | - |
| Clearance | 25 ft from structures | - |
| Fuel | Clean firewood only | Seasoned wood only, no yard waste |
| Burn Ban Check | pscleanair.gov / dnr.wa.gov | - |
| Code | FWRC 13.31 | - |
| Max Size | - | 3 feet wide, 2 feet tall |
| Setback | - | 25 feet from structures |
| Attendance | - | Adult with water source |
| PSCAA Stage 2 | - | All backyard fires prohibited |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire in Federal Way on the Fourth of July?
Sometimes. Small recreational fires are allowed under FWRC 13.31, but July often sees PSCAA or DNR burn bans that prohibit them. Check current burn-ban status before lighting.
Is a gas fire pit treated the same as wood?
No. Propane and natural gas outdoor fireplaces face fewer restrictions than wood fires and usually stay legal even during Stage 1 burn bans. Stage 2 bans can include them.
Renton FAQ
Can I have a bonfire in my Renton backyard?
No, true bonfires exceed the 3-foot diameter recreational fire limit. Small cooking or warming fires meeting size rules are allowed outside of burn bans.
Is a propane fire pit treated differently?
Yes, listed gas fire pits have looser setbacks per manufacturer labeling and are not restricted by PSCAA burn bans since they do not produce particulate smoke.
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