Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Federal Way under RCW 36.89.080. Rain barrels and cisterns need no permit; indoor/plumbed systems require a permit under FWRC 13.22.
Washington is one of the most rainwater-friendly states. Under RCW 36.89.080 (enacted 2009), any property owner may collect rainwater from their rooftops for onsite beneficial use without a water right permit from the Department of Ecology. Federal Way adopts this policy and actively encourages rainwater harvesting as a conservation and stormwater-management strategy through the Surface Water Management (SWM) division. Simple rain barrel or cistern systems used for irrigation, garden watering, or non-potable outdoor uses require no permit. Larger systems, systems tied into plumbing, or potable (indoor) systems require plumbing permits through FWRC Chapter 13.22 (Residential Code) and must comply with the Uniform Plumbing Code backflow-prevention rules. King County's RainWise program in certain sewer basins offers rebates for larger rain-garden and cistern installations. Rainwater systems also can count toward Low Impact Development (LID) stormwater credits on new construction. The Federal Way SWM division at (253) 835-2700 offers guidance.
Unpermitted indoor/plumbed rainwater systems: building code violation, civil infraction under FWRC 1.15 and stop-work orders. Contamination violations may trigger health-department enforcement.
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