Fire Pit Rules: Federal Way vs Renton
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Renton, WA?
Federal Way and Renton have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way allows recreational fire pits under FWRC 13.31 (2021 IFC). Fires must be under 3 ft wide and 2 ft tall, use clean firewood, and be supervised with water nearby. Burn bans override local rules.
View full Federal Way rules →Renton, WA
King County
Renton allows recreational fires under IFC Section 307 adopted via RMC 4-5-070. Pits must sit 25 feet from structures and be attended. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) burn bans override local rules.
View full Renton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Size | Max 3 ft wide, 2 ft tall | - |
| Clearance | 25 ft from combustibles | - |
| Code | FWRC 13.31 / 2021 IFC | IFC 307 via RMC 4-5-070 |
| Fire Agency | South King Fire and Rescue | - |
| Burn Bans | PSCAA and DNR supersede | - |
| Setback | - | 25 feet from structures |
| Size Limit | - | 3 feet wide, 2 feet tall |
| Fuel | - | Seasoned wood or gas only |
| Air Quality | - | PSCAA burn bans override local rules |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I have a backyard fire pit in Federal Way?
Yes. Recreational fires are allowed in pits up to 3 ft wide and 2 ft tall under FWRC 13.31, using clean firewood only, with 25 ft clearance from combustibles and an adult supervising.
Do I need a permit for a fire pit?
No permit is needed for standard recreational fires that meet size and setback rules. Larger ceremonial fires may require a South King Fire and Rescue permit.
What can I burn in a Federal Way fire pit?
Only clean, dry, seasoned firewood. Burning trash, yard waste, treated or painted wood, plastics, or construction debris is prohibited under the International Fire Code.
Renton FAQ
Can I have a wood fire pit in my Renton backyard?
Yes, if it burns only clean seasoned cordwood, stays 25 feet from structures, is attended by an adult, and is not used during a PSCAA burn ban.
Do gas fire pits have the same setback?
Listed gas appliances can sit closer per the manufacturer instructions, typically 15 feet or less from combustibles, and are not suspended by PSCAA burn bans.
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