Backyard Fires: Renton vs Seattle
How do backyard fires rules compare between Renton, WA and Seattle, WA?
Renton and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Renton, WA
King County
Recreational backyard fires in Renton must follow IFC 307 via RMC 4-5-070: 3 feet wide, 2 feet tall, seasoned wood, 25-foot setback, attended. PSCAA Stage 2 bans prohibit all outdoor burning.
View full Renton rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Backyard recreational fires in unincorporated King County are allowed in approved fire pits under 3 feet diameter, using dry firewood only. Setback 25 ft from structures. All outdoor fires banned during PSCAA Stage 2.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Renton | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Max Size | 3 feet wide, 2 feet tall | 3 ft diameter, 2 ft high |
| Setback | 25 feet from structures | 25 ft structures/lines |
| Fuel | Seasoned wood only, no yard waste | Dry seasoned firewood only |
| Attendance | Adult with water source | - |
| PSCAA Stage 2 | All backyard fires prohibited | - |
| Stage 2 Ban | - | All outdoor burning stops |
| Propane | - | Exempt from wood bans |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Renton FAQ
Can I have a bonfire in my Renton backyard?
No, true bonfires exceed the 3-foot diameter recreational fire limit. Small cooking or warming fires meeting size rules are allowed outside of burn bans.
Is a propane fire pit treated differently?
Yes, listed gas fire pits have looser setbacks per manufacturer labeling and are not restricted by PSCAA burn bans since they do not produce particulate smoke.
Seattle FAQ
Can I have a fire pit on my deck?
Wood-burning fire pits are not recommended on wood decks and may violate the 25-foot setback from combustibles. Propane fire tables are generally allowed on decks with proper clearance.
Can I burn during a PSCAA Stage 1 burn ban?
Yes in a recreational fire pit with approved fuel. Stage 1 bans uncertified wood stoves and fireplace logs but allows approved recreational fires. Stage 2 bans everything.
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