Native Plants: Redmond vs Renton
How do native plants rules compare between Redmond, WA and Renton, WA?
Redmond and Renton have similar restriction levels.
Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond strongly encourages native plantings through its Green Redmond Partnership and requires native species in critical area mitigation plantings under RMC 21.64 and 21.72.
View full Redmond rules →Renton, WA
King County
Renton encourages native plantings through RMC 4-4-070 landscape rules. Critical areas under RMC 4-3-050 require native plant restoration. Native gardens are exempt from the 12-inch grass height rule.
View full Renton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Redmond | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| City Program | Green Redmond Partnership | - |
| Required For | Critical area mitigation | - |
| Recommended Species | W. red cedar, sword fern | - |
| Plant Sale | King Conservation District | King Conservation District spring sale |
| Discouraged | English ivy, blackberry | - |
| Landscape Code | - | RMC 4-4-070 |
| Critical Areas | - | RMC 4-3-050 requires natives for mitigation |
| Native Garden Exemption | - | Not subject to 12-inch grass rule |
| Programs | - | Salmon-Friendly Gardening, Puget Sound Starts Here |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Redmond FAQ
Do I have to plant natives in my Redmond yard?
Not in a typical yard. Natives are only required for critical area mitigation and some tree replacement plantings.
Where can I buy native plants?
King Conservation District hosts an annual spring native plant sale, and local nurseries stock PNW native species.
Renton FAQ
Does Renton allow me to replace my lawn with natives?
Yes, native plant gardens are encouraged and exempt from the 12-inch grass height rule. Keep a design plan and maintain visible borders to avoid nuisance complaints.
Where can I get affordable native plants?
The King Conservation District bareroot native plant sale each spring offers low-cost local species. WSU Extension and city programs also provide guidance.
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