Fire Pit Rules: Kent vs Seattle
How do fire pit rules rules compare between Kent, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kent has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Kent, WA
King County
Kent allows small recreational fires in portable pits or contained rings when no PSCAA burn ban is active. Fires must be under 3 feet wide, burn only clean dry firewood, and be attended at all times.
View full Kent rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Outdoor fire pits and open flames are heavily restricted in Seattle due to the city's general prohibition on open burning. PSCAA burn bans also apply. Chimineas and enclosed fire pits may be subject to city and state air quality rules.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kent | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Max pit size | 3 feet diameter, 2 feet tall | - |
| Setback from structures | 25 feet minimum | - |
| Allowed fuel | Clean seasoned firewood only | - |
| Supervision | Adult attended at all times | - |
| Authority | Puget Sound RFA, PSCAA burn bans | - |
| Open Burning | - | Prohibited in Seattle city limits |
| Burn Bans | - | PSCAA issues (check pscaa.net) |
| State Law | - | WAC 173-425 |
| Contact | - | Seattle Fire Department (SFD) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kent FAQ
Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit?
No permit is required for recreational fires under 3 feet wide using clean firewood, provided no burn ban is in effect and the 25-foot setback is maintained.
How do I check for a burn ban?
Visit pscleanair.gov or call the PSCAA burn ban hotline before lighting any outdoor fire in Kent. Bans are common in summer and winter.
Seattle FAQ
Are fire pits allowed in residential areas in Seattle?
Outdoor fire pits and open flames are heavily restricted in Seattle due to the city's general prohibition on open burning. PSCAA burn bans also apply. Chimineas and enclosed fire pits may be subject to city and state air quality rules.
What are the fire pit setback requirements in Seattle?
Open Burning: Prohibited in Seattle city limits. Burn Bans: PSCAA issues (check pscaa.net). State Law: WAC 173-425. Contact: Seattle Fire Department (SFD).
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