Kent vs Renton
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Kent, WA and Renton, WA?
Kent and Renton have similar restriction levels.
Kent, WA
King County
Kent requires a grading permit for most cut or fill over 50 cubic yards under KCC Title 14. Drainage changes must match the DOE Western Washington Stormwater Manual and not harm neighbors.
View full Kent rules →Renton, WA
King County
Renton Municipal Code 4-8 and the King County SWDM require grading permits for earth-moving over 50 cubic yards and detailed drainage plans to protect the Cedar River, Black River, and downstream habitat.
View full Renton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kent | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| Permit trigger | 50 cy cut or fill | - |
| Disturbance | 7,000 sf | - |
| Steep slopes | Geotech at >15% | - |
| Retaining walls | Permit over 4 ft | - |
| Permit threshold | - | More than 50 cubic yards |
| Slope review | - | Geotech required above 15 to 40 percent |
| Flood compensation | - | Storage required for floodplain fills |
| Flow matching | - | 2 and 10 year post equals pre |
| Drainage direction | - | Cannot flow onto neighbors |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kent FAQ
Do I need a permit to regrade my Kent yard?
Yes if you move more than 50 cubic yards, disturb over 7,000 sf, or change drainage affecting a neighbor.
Can I add fill in a floodplain?
Fill in the Green River floodway is prohibited; in the flood fringe it requires permits and compensating storage in many cases.
Renton FAQ
Do I need a permit to level my backyard?
Small landscape grading under 50 cubic yards is typically exempt, but any activity in a critical area or over the threshold requires a grading permit.
Can I direct my gutters to the street?
Only through an approved tightline to the city storm system. Untreated discharge to the street can trigger stormwater violations.
Compare other topics
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