Property Maintenance in King County, WA (2026)

4 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 8 cities in King County, Washington.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of King County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Trash Bin Storage

In residential zones of unincorporated King County, garbage and recycling carts must be screened from public view and adjacent properties on non-collection days under KCC 21A.18. Bins left permanently at the curb can be cited as a zoning violation and junk accumulation.

King County Trash Bin Storage Rules

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Property Blight

King County enforces property maintenance standards to prevent blight under KCC Title 23 and the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC). Violations include junk accumulation, unsecured vacant buildings, broken windows, overgrown vegetation, and exterior deterioration. Penalties start at 100 dollars per day.

King County Property Blight Rules

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Vacant Lot Maintenance

Owners of vacant lots in unincorporated King County must maintain their property free of junk, overgrowth, and fire hazards under KCC Title 23 and Title 17 (Fire Code). In fire-prone rural areas near the Cascades, defensible space is required during fire season.

King County Vacant Lot Maintenance Rules

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Snow & Sidewalk Clearing

Unincorporated King County does not mandate residential sidewalk snow and ice removal. King County Road Services plows and treats county roads by priority route. Residents are encouraged but not required to clear sidewalks abutting their property.