Wildfire Zones: Kirkland vs Seattle
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Kirkland, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kirkland has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland applies wildland-urban interface rules under IFC Chapter 49 to parcels near forested greenbelts, ravines, and Watershed Park; WUI construction standards may apply for new builds.
View full Kirkland rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Eastern unincorporated King County (Skykomish, Snoqualmie, foothills) is mapped by WA DNR as moderate to high wildfire hazard. The Wildland Urban Interface code requires ignition-resistant materials and defensible space.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kirkland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Code | IFC Chapter 49 via KMC Title 21 | 2021 IWUIC |
| Primary Zones | Parcels near ravines, parks | - |
| Roof Requirement | Class A or B in WUI | - |
| Defensible Space | 30 ft + 100 ft buffers | 100 ft zones 1-3 |
| State Authority | WA DNR + RCW 76.04 | - |
| High Hazard Areas | - | Skykomish, Snoqualmie |
| Roofing | - | Class A required |
| Fire Marshal | - | 206-296-6533 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kirkland FAQ
Is Kirkland in a wildfire hazard zone?
Some Kirkland parcels adjacent to forested ravines, Watershed Park, and greenbelt areas are treated as wildland-urban interface under IFC Chapter 49.
Do I need special building materials?
New builds or major remodels on mapped WUI parcels may require ignition-resistant siding, Class A/B roofing, and ember-resistant vents.
Seattle FAQ
Is my King County property in a wildfire hazard zone?
Check the WA DNR Wildfire Hazard Map or call the King County Fire Marshal at 206-296-6533. Foothill and Cascades properties are commonly mapped as moderate or high hazard and subject to WUI construction standards.
What defensible space is required near my home?
Zone 1 (0-5 ft) noncombustible, Zone 2 (5-30 ft) lean/clean/green with reduced fuels, and Zone 3 (30-100 ft) thinned with ladder fuels removed. These align with IWUIC and DNR Firewise standards.
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