Dark Sky Rules: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Federal Way and Seattle 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 →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle Municipal Code regulates outdoor lighting through zoning standards in §23.45 (residential) and §23.47A (commercial). Fully-shielded fixtures are required on new commercial installations, light trespass is capped at 0.5 foot-candles at residential lines, and recent rules cap color temperature at 3000K. Seattle works with King County on regional dark-sky alignment.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Policy type | Shielded-only, not full dark-sky | - |
| Pole height | ~25 ft commercial max | - |
| Residential | Nuisance rule applies | - |
| Flashing lights | Prohibited absent permit | - |
| - | - |
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.
Seattle FAQ
Do I need to replace existing fixtures?
No. Pre-existing fixtures are grandfathered. New installations, replacements, and major remodels must comply with current SMC standards.
Are holiday lights exempt?
Yes. Seasonal decorative lighting is exempt November 15 to January 15 provided fixtures aren't aimed at the sky or laser-projected.
What color temperature is allowed?
New outdoor LEDs are capped at 3000K under the 2022 amendment. Warm-white 2700K is encouraged for residential.
Compare other topics
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