Signage Rules: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do signage rules rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Seattle has fewer restrictions than Federal Way.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way prohibits exterior signage for home businesses under FWRC 19.270. The home-occupation rule bars any outside indication of the business. Signs require Process III conditional use approval.
View full Federal Way rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Unincorporated King County permits one non-illuminated sign for a home occupation, limited to 2 square feet and attached to the dwelling. Freestanding or illuminated signs are prohibited under KCC 21A.20.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Signs | Prohibited | - |
| Code | FWRC 19.270 | KCC 21A.20 |
| Conditional Approval | Process III only | - |
| Address Numbers | Allowed (required) | - |
| Online Advertising | Not restricted | - |
| Max Size | - | 2 square feet |
| Illumination | - | Prohibited |
| Mounting | - | Wall-mounted only |
| Contact | - | (206) 296-1600 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I put up a small sign for my home business?
No. FWRC 19.270 prohibits any exterior indication of a home occupation. Signs require Process III conditional use approval, which is rarely granted for residential areas.
Can I advertise my home business online?
Yes. FWRC 19.270 only restricts exterior indications on the property. Online marketing, business cards, and off-site advertising are not regulated by the home-occupation rules.
Seattle FAQ
Can I put up a sign for my home business in unincorporated King County?
Yes, one wall-mounted identification sign up to 2 square feet is allowed. It cannot be illuminated, flashing, or placed on a freestanding pole in residential zones.
Can I use a sandwich board or yard sign for my King County home business?
No. A-frame sandwich boards, yard signs, banners, and signs in the public right-of-way are prohibited for home occupations in residential zones under unincorporated King County rules.
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