Wildfire Zones: Kent vs Redmond
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Kent, WA and Redmond, WA?
Kent has fewer restrictions than Redmond.
Kent, WA
King County
Kent is not officially mapped as a high wildfire hazard area, but East Hill slopes, greenbelts, and the forested eastern edge near Soos Creek face moderate wildland-urban interface risk during dry summers.
View full Kent rules βRedmond, WA
King County
Redmond is mapped as moderate wildfire risk by DNR with high-risk pockets in forested north and east neighborhoods abutting Novelty Hill and Watershed Preserve, triggering Firewise guidance and seasonal DNR burn bans.
View full Redmond rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kent | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| Hazard mapping | WA DNR maps, not CAL FIRE | - |
| Higher-risk areas | East Hill slopes, Soos Creek edge | - |
| Hardening requirements | Not mandated, Firewise encouraged | - |
| Critical factor | East wind plus drought | - |
| Authority | Kent ECD, DNR, PSRFA | - |
| Primary Risk Level | - | Moderate (DNR map) |
| High-Risk Areas | - | North/east Redmond |
| State Agency | - | WA DNR |
| Seasonal Bans | - | DNR and PSCAA |
| Recommended Program | - | Firewise USA |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kent FAQ
Is Kent in a wildfire hazard zone?
Most of Kent is low risk. Some hillside and greenbelt-adjacent parcels fall into moderate risk per DNR maps. Check the DNR wildfire hazard viewer.
Do I need fire-resistant materials to build in Kent?
Kent follows the Washington State Building Code. Standard IRC requirements apply. WUI Code chapter has not been adopted citywide.
Redmond FAQ
Is Redmond in a wildfire zone?
Most of Redmond is moderate risk per DNR mapping, with high-risk pockets near the forested north and east neighborhoods bordering open space.
Does Redmond have a WUI ordinance?
No formal WUI overlay exists, but DNR burn bans and PSCAA restrictions apply and Firewise practices are strongly encouraged.
Compare other topics
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