Outdoor Burning: Kent vs Seattle
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Kent, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kent and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Kent, WA
King County
Kent prohibits residential yard-waste burning year round under Puget Sound Clean Air Agency rules. Only clean-firewood recreational fires are allowed when no burn ban is active.
View full Kent rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Open burning in Seattle is prohibited except during approved ceremonial events. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) issues burn bans for King County. Residential outdoor burning is not permitted in Seattle city limits.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kent | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Yard debris burning | Banned year round in Kent | - |
| Recreational fires | Allowed with clean firewood only | - |
| Burn bans | PSCAA stage 1 and 2 halt all fires | - |
| Land clearing | DNR permit, RCW 76.04 | - |
| Alternatives | Curbside yard waste or transfer station | - |
| Status | - | Open burning prohibited in city limits |
| Authority | - | Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) |
| State Law | - | RCW 70A.15 / WAC 173-425 |
| Exceptions | - | Ceremonial events with SFD permit only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kent FAQ
Can I burn leaves in fall in Kent?
No. Residential yard-waste burning is prohibited citywide. Use the curbside organics cart or the Cedar Grove drop site.
How do I know if a burn ban is in effect?
Check pscleanair.gov or subscribe to PSCAA alerts. Bans are common in summer fire season and winter inversions.
Seattle FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Seattle?
Open burning in Seattle is prohibited except during approved ceremonial events. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) issues burn bans for King County. Residential outdoor burning is not permitted in Seattle city limits.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Seattle?
Status: Open burning prohibited in city limits. Authority: Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA). State Law: RCW 70A.15 / WAC 173-425. Exceptions: Ceremonial events with SFD permit only.
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