Wildfire Zones: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Federal Way has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way is rated low-to-moderate wildfire risk by DNR. No formal Wildland-Urban Interface overlay applies, but forested green belts and BPA corridors elevate local risk. Burn bans enforce during drought.
View full Federal Way rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Eastern unincorporated King County (Skykomish, Snoqualmie, foothills) is mapped by WA DNR as moderate to high wildfire hazard. The Wildland Urban Interface code requires ignition-resistant materials and defensible space.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Rating | Low to moderate | - |
| WUI Code | Not adopted locally | - |
| Fire Agency | South King Fire and Rescue | - |
| Risk Factor | Green belts, BPA corridors | - |
| State Law | RCW 76.04 | - |
| Code | - | 2021 IWUIC |
| High Hazard Areas | - | Skykomish, Snoqualmie |
| Defensible Space | - | 100 ft zones 1-3 |
| Roofing | - | Class A required |
| Fire Marshal | - | 206-296-6533 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Is Federal Way a high wildfire risk area?
No. DNR rates it low-to-moderate. Forested green belts and power-line corridors elevate localized risk, especially during drought summers.
Does Federal Way have a Wildland-Urban Interface code?
No. Washington adopted the IWUIC in 2024 but the city has not adopted WUI-specific defensible space requirements. Standard fire code FWRC 13.31 applies.
Seattle FAQ
Is my King County property in a wildfire hazard zone?
Check the WA DNR Wildfire Hazard Map or call the King County Fire Marshal at 206-296-6533. Foothill and Cascades properties are commonly mapped as moderate or high hazard and subject to WUI construction standards.
What defensible space is required near my home?
Zone 1 (0-5 ft) noncombustible, Zone 2 (5-30 ft) lean/clean/green with reduced fuels, and Zone 3 (30-100 ft) thinned with ladder fuels removed. These align with IWUIC and DNR Firewise standards.
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