Pop. 73,256 · King County
Redmond allows free on-street parking in most residential areas with 72-hour continuous parking limits under RCW 46.55. Downtown Redmond and Overlake have metered and time-limited zones.
Redmond generally allows overnight residential street parking within the 72-hour continuous-parking limit. Downtown time zones, snow events, and posted no-parking signs override the default.
Redmond tags and tows vehicles left on the public right-of-way more than 72 hours under RCW 46.55. Junk vehicles on private property can also be abated through code enforcement.
Redmond prohibits exterior commercial signs for home occupations in residential zones under RMC 21.08.090 and RMC Chapter 21.60 Sign Code, preserving residential character.
Home food businesses in Redmond operate under the Washington Cottage Food Operations Law (RCW 69.22) which allows limited home-baked and non-potentially hazardous foods with WSDA permit up to $25,000 annual gross sales.
Redmond permits family home child care in residential zones under RCW 35.63.185. Providers need a DCYF state license and a Redmond business license. RZC 21.08 home occupation rules apply.
Home occupations in Redmond are limited to minimal customer visits under RMC 21.08.090, typically restricted to one client appointment at a time by appointment only with no walk-in traffic.
Redmond allows home occupations as accessory uses under RZC 21.08. A business license is always required; a home occupation permit is needed when the business has employees, clients, or external impacts.
Redmond allows home occupations in residential zones under RMC 21.08.090 as accessory uses, with limits on floor area, outside employees, signage, and customer visits to preserve neighborhood character.
Redmond pools and spas over 24 inches deep need a 48-inch barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates opening outward. No gap larger than 4 inches. Follows IRC Appendix G adopted by Washington.
Redmond requires a building permit for any pool (in-ground or above-ground) with water depth over 24 inches. A separate WA L&I electrical permit is needed for pumps, heaters, and lighting.
Redmond hot tubs over 24 inches deep need a building permit. A locking ASTM F1346 safety cover meets the barrier rule. A WA L&I electrical permit is required for the 240V circuit and GFCI.
Redmond pools follow IRC Appendix G barriers, ASTM F1346 covers, and the federal VGB Act drain rules. Public pools (apartments, HOAs) also meet WAC 246-260 inspected by Public Health Seattle-King County.
Redmond above-ground pools over 24 inches deep need a building permit and an IRC Appendix G barrier. The 48-inch pool wall can serve as the barrier if the ladder is removable or lockable.
Redmond does not ban gas leaf blowers, but restricts their use to daytime hours under RMC 6.32. Residential yard equipment is permitted between 7 AM and 10 PM without exceeding noise limits.
Amplified music audible beyond 75 feet or across property lines is a public disturbance under RMC 6.32. Downtown Park events require a special event permit from the city to exceed standard noise limits.
Industrial-source noise received in Redmond residential areas may not exceed 60 dBA daytime and 50 dBA nighttime under RMC 6.32 and WAC 173-60. Overlake and SE Redmond industrial zones are monitored.
Outdoor music events in Redmond require a special event permit when amplified. Venues like Marymoor Park and Redmond Downtown Park have set curfews, typically 10 PM, under RMC 6.32 and park rules.
Redmond decibel limits follow WAC 173-60 EDNA tiers: 55 dBA day and 45 dBA night for residential, 60 and 55 for commercial, 70 all hours for industrial. Enforced under RMC 6.32.
Redmond permits construction 7 AM to 7 PM weekdays and 9 AM to 6 PM Saturdays under RMC 6.32. No construction on Sundays or legal holidays without a special variance from the city.
Aircraft noise over Redmond is federally preempted by the FAA and is not enforceable under RMC. Residents impacted by Sea-Tac, Boeing Field, and Paine Field flight paths may file noise complaints with each airport.
Redmond treats habitual barking as a public nuisance under RMC 6.32 and King County Code Title 11. Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) investigates complaints and issues citations.
Redmond enforces nighttime quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM under RMC 6.32, mirroring WAC 173-60. Residential night limit is 45 dBA; daytime limit is 55 dBA from another residential source.
Redmond prohibits feeding deer, coyotes, bears, raccoons, and other wildlife under RMC 6.32 and WDFW guidance. Bird feeders are allowed if maintained to avoid attracting rodents or bears.
Redmond allows up to 3 chickens on residential lots under 20,000 sq ft, scaling with lot size per RMC 21.08. Roosters are prohibited in most residential zones. Coops must meet setback rules.
Redmond allows residential beekeeping under RMC 21.08 with setback and hive density limits. Hives must be at least 25 feet from property lines and registered with WSDA under RCW 15.60.
Redmond limits horses, goats, sheep, and other livestock to rural residential (R-1) and agricultural zones under RMC 21.08. Minimum lot size and density requirements apply; not allowed in most neighborhoods.
Redmond follows RCW 16.30 and King County Code 11.04, which prohibit potentially dangerous wild animals including big cats, primates, venomous snakes, and bears without state permit.
Redmond requires dogs to be leashed in all public areas except designated off-leash parks, under King County Code 11.04. Marymoor Park off-leash area is the major exception serving the region.
Redmond does not have breed-specific restrictions. Dangerous and potentially dangerous dog rules apply to individual animals based on behavior under RCW 16.08 and King County Code 11.04.
King County Code Title 11 limits residential households to a small number of dogs and cats; exceeding the cap requires a kennel, cattery, or hobby license issued by Regional Animal Services of King County.
King County Code Title 11 requires every dog and cat over eight weeks old to be licensed annually with Regional Animal Services; microchips are strongly encouraged and used by RASKC to reunite lost pets with owners.
King County does not mandate spay/neuter for owned pets, but KCC 11.04 charges substantially lower annual license fees for altered dogs and cats to encourage sterilization and reduce shelter intake.
King County does not regulate coyotes directly; the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife handles non-domestic wildlife under RCW Title 77, while RASKC and KCSO respond only to immediate public-safety threats from coyotes.
King County prosecutes animal hoarding under Washington's animal-cruelty statutes RCW 16.52, with Regional Animal Services investigating hoarding complaints and KCSO or city police filing first- or second-degree cruelty charges.
King County Code Title 11 requires cats over eight weeks old to be licensed with Regional Animal Services, but unlike dogs, cats are not required to be leashed; chronic nuisance cats can still trigger civil enforcement.
King County does not impose a countywide retail puppy-mill sourcing ban, but RCW 16.52 cruelty laws apply to pet stores; some cities like Seattle restrict retail dog and cat sales to rescue and shelter sources only.
Veterinary clinics in unincorporated King County are permitted in commercial and some mixed-use zones under KCC Title 21A, with overnight boarding subject to additional kennel standards and noise, odor, and waste-control conditions.
Redmond has no city ordinance mandating cost-sharing between neighbors for boundary fences. Washington RCW 16.60 addresses spite fences and agricultural boundary fencing, otherwise civil disputes.
Retaining walls over 4 feet tall (measured from footing bottom to wall top) or supporting a surcharge require a building permit and engineered design in Redmond under IBC and RMC 15.06.
Standard residential fences up to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 4 feet in front yards do not require a building permit in Redmond. Permits are needed for taller fences, masonry, or pool barriers.
Redmond prohibits barbed wire, razor wire, and electric fences in residential zones under RMC 21.54. Chain-link, vinyl, wood, and masonry are permitted subject to height, maintenance, and HOA rules.
Redmond requires a 48-inch pool barrier with self-closing, self-latching gate for any pool or spa over 24 inches deep under RMC 15.06, adopting IRC Appendix G. Permits and inspection are required.
Redmond fences must meet RMC 21.54 standards on height, setback, sight triangle, and material. Finished side typically faces neighbor, posts set below frost line, and HOAs may add style rules.
Redmond allows 6-foot fences in rear and side yards and 4-foot fences in front yards and corner-lot sight triangles under RMC 21.54. Taller fences require a permit and setback review.
Redmond recommends defensible space clearance of 30 feet around structures per DNR Firewise guidelines; critical areas vegetation is protected under RMC 21.64 and requires city review before removal.
Smoke alarms are required in every sleeping room, outside sleeping areas, and on every floor of Redmond homes per IRC R314 as adopted by RMC 15.04, with CO alarms required under RCW 19.27.530.
Outdoor burning of yard debris is banned year-round in Redmond under Puget Sound Clean Air Agency Regulation 1 and RCW 70.94; only small recreational fires with clean firewood are permitted.
Redmond is mapped as moderate wildfire risk by DNR with high-risk pockets in forested north and east neighborhoods abutting Novelty Hill and Watershed Preserve, triggering Firewise guidance and seasonal DNR burn bans.
Backyard recreational fires must use clean firewood in approved pits, stay under 3 feet across, maintain 25 feet clearance, and be continuously attended under IFC 307 as adopted by RMC 15.06.
Redmond allows small recreational fires in approved pits or containers under IFC 307 as adopted by RMC 15.06, with fuel limited to seasoned firewood and size under 3 feet diameter by 2 feet high.
Redmond restricts consumer fireworks under RCW 70.77 and RMC 9.60, permitting discharge only on July 4 from 9 AM to 11 PM; sales and possession outside that window are prohibited.
Residential propane storage in King County follows the Washington-adopted International Fire Code under RCW 19.27, capping non-permitted home cylinders and requiring permits for larger tanks from the Washington State Patrol Fire Marshal or local fire authority.
Redmond requires a Tree Removal Permit under RMC 21.72 for any significant tree (generally 6 inch DBH), with replacement plantings required and strict protections for trees in critical areas and native growth easements.
Rainwater collection is legal and encouraged in Redmond per Washington Department of Ecology 2009 guidance; systems for non-potable outdoor use require no permit, while plumbed indoor uses require building permits.
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.
Redmond water customers follow Seattle Public Utilities/Cascade Water Alliance voluntary conservation stages; summer outdoor watering is limited to specific days and morning/evening hours under drought advisories.
Artificial turf is allowed in Redmond residential yards with no specific permit, but installations over 500 square feet may affect stormwater calculations and turf is discouraged in critical area buffers.
Redmond has no specific grass height ordinance, but RMC 8.24 nuisance provisions address overgrown vegetation that harbors vermin or creates fire hazards; most residents maintain lawns voluntarily.
Routine pruning of private trees under 25 percent of canopy is allowed without a permit in Redmond, but significant trees and trees in critical areas require review under RMC 21.72 Tree Protection.
Redmond follows the King County Noxious Weed List under RCW 17.10 which requires control of Class A and designated Class B noxious weeds such as tansy ragwort, giant hogweed, and knotweed.
Washington requires jurisdictions over 25,000 to provide organics collection and bans certain organic waste disposal under RCW 70A.205.545.
Carports in Redmond must meet setback and lot coverage rules under RMC 21.08, typically require a building permit for permanent roofed structures, and generally cannot encroach into required front yard setbacks.
Converting a garage to living space in Redmond requires a building permit and often qualifies as an attached ADU under RMC 21.08; parking replacement, egress, and energy code compliance are required.
Tiny homes on permanent foundations may be allowed as ADUs under RMC 21.08 if they meet IRC Appendix Q standards; tiny homes on wheels (RVs) are limited to temporary use under RMC parking rules.
Redmond allows one attached and one detached ADU per single-family lot under RMC 21.08 and WA HB 1337, with no owner-occupancy requirement and streamlined permitting for units up to 1,000 sq ft.
Sheds 200 sq ft or smaller are exempt from building permits in Redmond per IRC R105.2 and must meet RMC 21.08 setback and lot coverage rules; larger sheds require building permits.
Redmond STRs must follow RMC 6.36 noise limits: 55 dBA day (7 AM-10 PM) and 45 dBA night. Hosts must provide a local contact who responds to complaints within one hour.
Redmond STR parking follows residential zoning (usually 2 off-street spaces). Street parking is allowed under RMC 10.16 with a 72-hour move rule; hosts should not rely on streets as primary capacity.
Redmond applies the Washington State Building Code and IRC to STR occupancy. A common guideline is 2 persons per bedroom plus 2. Hosts must not exceed lawful occupancy or safe egress capacity.
Redmond does not cap the number of STR nights per year. Hosts may operate year-round subject to licensing, tax, insurance, and zoning compliance. HOAs may impose their own caps.
Redmond STR hosts register via the Redmond Business Licensing Division, the WA DOR for lodging tax, and comply with RCW 64.37 safety disclosure rules. The city license renews annually.
Redmond STRs must collect WA state sales tax (6.5%), combined local sales tax (~10.2%), and state lodging tax under RCW 67.28. Airbnb and Vrbo auto-collect most taxes; hosts verify and hold a city license.
Redmond STR hosts must carry at least $1 million in liability insurance under RCW 64.37.030. Coverage can come from a personal STR policy or qualifying platform coverage like Airbnb AirCover.
Redmond STR hosts (rentals 30 days or less) need a city business license, Washington DOR lodging tax registration, and must comply with RCW 64.37 insurance and safety rules.
King County does not impose a hosted-only rule for short-term rentals in unincorporated areas. Hosts may rent entire dwellings without being on-site, subject to King County Code and Washington state STR transparency requirements under RCW 64.37.
Properties in unincorporated King County that generate three or more verified noise, disorderly-conduct, or code calls within a 12-month window may be declared chronic nuisances under King County Code Title 14, exposing owners to abatement orders.
King County itself imposes no primary-residence restriction on short-term rentals in unincorporated areas, but several cities within the county, most notably Seattle, limit operators to their primary dwelling plus at most one additional unit.
Under RCW 64.37, Airbnb, Vrbo, and other booking platforms operating in King County must require operators to attest to insurance, registration, and tax compliance, and must remove listings that fail to meet state and local requirements.
Stays of 30 days or longer in any King County short-term rental convert the guest into a tenant under the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, RCW 59.18, regardless of whether a lease was signed or the platform classifies the stay as short-term.
Redmond HOA assessments follow RCW 64.90 (WUCIOA). Unpaid amounts become a statutory lien that can be foreclosed after notice. A 6-month super-lien applies. Reserve studies are required every 3 years.
Redmond HOAs follow RCW 64.90 (WUCIOA) or older RCW 64.34 and 64.38. Boards must hold open meetings, keep minutes, ratify budgets with owner notice, and follow fiduciary duties.
Redmond HOA architectural review follows the declaration under RCW 64.90 or 64.38. Committees must act in good faith and cannot block solar panels, US flags, or satellite dishes under 1 meter.
Redmond HOA disputes are civil. Start with internal procedures, then mediation at the King County Dispute Resolution Center. Suits go to King County Superior Court with attorney fees under RCW 64.90.665.
Redmond CC&Rs are enforced by the HOA under RCW 64.90 and the declaration. Boards may fine owners after notice and a hearing (RCW 64.90.410) or seek an injunction in King County Superior Court.
Elevators in Redmond are regulated by Washington L&I under RCW 70.87 and chapter 296-96 WAC, not by the city. All elevators need annual L&I inspection and licensed contractor maintenance.
Pre-1978 Redmond homes fall under the federal EPA RRP Rule and Title X disclosure. Contractors must be EPA certified, use lead-safe practices, and deliver the Renovate Right pamphlet before renovation.
Redmond property owners must keep buildings free of rodents, insects, and vermin under the Property Maintenance Code. Landlords must deliver pest-free units under RCW 59.18.
Redmond follows WA State Building Code and IBC Chapter 33 for scaffolds. Commercial scaffold work requires L and I compliance under WAC 296-874 and Redmond permits for right-of-way use.
Childcare centers in King County must meet Washington State Building Code occupancy requirements under RCW 19.27 and obtain a license from the Washington Department of Children, Youth, and Families per RCW 43.216 and WAC 110-300.
Washington's adopted International Residential Code under RCW 19.27 makes fire sprinklers mandatory in townhouses and multifamily buildings; single-family fire sprinklers are typically required only when triggered by access, water-supply, or local amendments.
King County buildings must meet the Washington State Energy Code under RCW 19.27A, one of the strictest in the nation; the county's Strategic Climate Action Plan also drives green-building incentives toward carbon neutrality by 2050.
Door locks on residential and commercial buildings in King County must comply with the Washington-adopted International Building Code and International Fire Code under RCW 19.27, ensuring single-action egress without keys, tools, or special knowledge.
King County Code Title 21A controls house bulk through floor-area, lot-coverage, and height limits rather than a dedicated mansionization ordinance, with stricter standards in rural and Vashon Island zones to preserve neighborhood character.
Redmond allows residential garage sales without a permit, limited to 2 sales per year and 3 days each under RMC 21.08. Items and signs must be removed within 48 hours. Sales may not obstruct sidewalks.
Redmond carts must be stored out of public view except on collection day. Carts may be set out no earlier than 6 PM the day before and retrieved within 24 hours after pickup per RMC Title 9 and RMC 15.06.
Redmond vacant lot owners must keep parcels free of weeds over 12 inches, debris, and illegal dumping per RMC 6.26. The city may abate at owner expense and file a lien if notices are ignored.
Redmond RMC 6.26 prohibits public nuisances including junk, inoperable vehicles, weeds over 12 inches, graffiti, and unmaintained structures. Code enforcement issues notices with 10 to 30 day abatement windows.
Redmond has no formal snow-clearing ordinance for sidewalks. RMC 12.08 places general sidewalk maintenance on adjacent property owners, and the city encourages voluntary clearing during winter storms.
Redmond single-family setbacks under RMC Title 21 are typically 20 ft front, 5 ft side, and 15-20 ft rear in R-4 and R-6 zones, with reduced setbacks possible in neighborhood infill areas.
Redmond limits building coverage and impervious surface in residential zones under RMC Title 21 and requires stormwater mitigation over specific thresholds in the Bear Creek and Sammamish basins.
Redmond caps residential building height around 30-35 feet in R zones under RMC Title 21. Downtown and Overlake urban centers allow mid-rise and high-rise buildings up to 150+ feet.
Redmond participates in the NFIP and regulates construction in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas along Bear Creek, Evans Creek, and the Sammamish River. Critical areas code adds 1-2 ft freeboard.
Redmond requires a grading permit for earthwork over 50 cubic yards or grading in critical areas under RMC Title 15, with drainage review by Public Works based on the DOE Stormwater Manual.
Redmond requires construction-phase erosion and sediment control BMPs on any ground disturbance over 2,000 sf under RMC Title 15 and the DOE Stormwater Manual, with daily inspection during wet season.
Redmond is an NPDES Phase II city and enforces Department of Ecology stormwater standards. Development over 2,000 sf of new or replaced impervious surface must mitigate runoff.
King County's Strategic Climate Action Plan, updated in 2020, sets a binding countywide goal of carbon neutrality by 2050 with a 50% reduction by 2030 from a 2007 baseline.
King County itself does not ban gas-powered leaf blowers countywide, but several cities including Seattle are phasing out gas blowers, and noise rules in KCC 12.86 apply to all power equipment.
King County and Washington state limit unnecessary diesel idling, particularly near schools, hospitals, and Metro bus bases, to protect air quality in the central Puget Sound airshed.
King County encourages cool roofs and reflective surfaces through the Washington State Energy Code and green building incentives, especially for large commercial reroofs in unincorporated areas and Metro facilities.
King County addresses urban heat islands through tree canopy goals, cool surfaces, and equity-focused investments under the Strategic Climate Action Plan and the 30-year Land Conservation Initiative.
Unincorporated King County's marine shoreline along Puget Sound and Vashon-Maury Island is regulated under the Shoreline Management Act (RCW 90.58), the King County Shoreline Master Program (K.C.C. Title 21A), and the Critical Areas Ordinance at K.C.C. Chapter 21A.24. Shoreline jurisdiction extends 200 feet inland from the ordinary high water mark. Critical-area buffers along marine shorelines are typically 115 to 165 feet.
Redmond issues streamlined solar permits for rooftop PV systems through Development Services. Permits require electrical and structural review and follow the WA State Energy Code.
Washington RCW 64.38 and RCW 64.90 limit HOA authority to ban solar devices. Redmond HOAs can set reasonable aesthetic rules but cannot flatly prohibit residential solar installations.
Redmond food trucks need a WA State business license, King County Public Health mobile-food permit, and Redmond business license and zoning review before operating on private or public property.
Redmond does not have dedicated street vending zones but allows food trucks on private property with owner permission and in permitted special events and parks with city approval.
Redmond requires shielded, downward-directed outdoor lighting in commercial and multifamily projects under RMC Title 21 to limit light pollution and preserve nighttime views near parks.
Redmond light trespass is controlled through property-line foot-candle limits in RMC Title 21 for commercial sites and the general nuisance code for residential lighting that disturbs neighbors.
Redmond offers free weekly curbside recycling and food/yard waste collection. Commingled recyclables include paper, cardboard, rigid plastics 1-7, cans, and glass. Food scraps must go in the green cart.
Redmond residents can schedule on-call bulky item pickup with Recology for per-item fees or haul large items to King County transfer stations. Illegal dumping is a misdemeanor under RMC 9.04.
Redmond carts must sit at the curb with wheels against the curb, lids facing the street, and 3 feet of clearance on all sides. Carts may not block sidewalks, hydrants, or traffic lanes per RMC 9.04.
Recology collects garbage, recycling, and yard/food waste weekly in Redmond. Carts must be out by 7 AM on collection day and retrieved within 24 hours per RMC Title 9.
Redmond permits political signs on private property without a permit under RMC 21.60. Residential signs may total 6 sq ft per frontage, must have owner permission, and may not sit in public rights-of-way.
Redmond permits residential holiday lighting and seasonal displays without a permit under RMC 21.60.130. Displays may go up 45 days before the holiday and should come down within 30 days after.
Redmond garage sale signs are allowed on private property during the sale only, up to 4 sq ft and 3 off-site signs per sale. Signs may not sit on utility poles or in the right-of-way per RMC 21.60.
Commercial drone work in Redmond requires an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate under 14 CFR Part 107, with LAANC authorization in controlled airspace. RMC 12.20 bars launch and landing in city parks.
Recreational drone operators in Redmond must follow FAA rules (49 USC 44809): register drones over 0.55 lbs, pass TRUST, and stay below 400 ft AGL. RMC 12.20 bars launch and landing in city parks.
Recreational home cannabis cultivation is illegal in Redmond and statewide under WA I-502 and RCW 69.50. Registered medical patients may grow up to 6 plants (up to 15 with authorization) per RCW 69.51A.
Redmond allows licensed cannabis retailers in limited commercial zones under RMC 21.08 with a 1,000-foot buffer from schools, parks, and child care per RCW 69.50.331. Retailers need a WSLCB license.
State law and King County Code require licensed cannabis retailers, producers, and processors to sit at least 1000 feet from schools, playgrounds, recreation centers, child care, public parks, public transit centers, libraries, and game arcades. Cities may reduce the buffer to 100 feet for some uses.
Initiative 502 legalized adult cannabis retail in Washington but did not authorize home cultivation. King County residents may not grow recreational cannabis at home. Only state-licensed Liquor and Cannabis Board producers can cultivate, and qualifying medical patients have narrow limits.
Washington does not authorize recreational cannabis delivery to consumers. Customers in King County must purchase in person at licensed retailers. Only registered medical patients can use a limited cooperative model, and licensee-to-licensee transport requires LCB-approved transporter licenses.
Rent control is preempted by Washington RCW 35.21.830, so Redmond cannot cap rent increases. State HB 1351 notice rules and RCW 59.18 just-cause protections still apply.
Redmond follows Washington RCW 59.18.650, which requires landlords to show one of 16 enumerated just causes to end a residential tenancy. No separate city ordinance exists.
Redmond has no mandatory rental registration or inspection program. Landlords must hold a city business license under RMC 5.08 and follow Washington RCW 59.18 habitability rules.
Washington's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act and King County tenant-protection ordinances require landlords to pay relocation assistance when displacing tenants for substantial rehabilitation, demolition, or change of use, with amounts varying by city and tenant income level.
Under RCW 59.18.270, all security and damage deposits collected from King County tenants must be held in a trust account at a Washington financial institution, with the tenant given written notice of the bank's name and address within the lease.
Since 2021, Washington's just-cause statute RCW 59.18.650 prohibits no-fault evictions of month-to-month tenants. Landlords in King County must cite one of sixteen enumerated causes such as nonpayment, lease violation, owner move-in, or substantial rehabilitation.
Washington's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act and Seattle's Renting in Seattle ordinance prohibit landlord harassment of tenants, including utility shutoffs, lockouts, repeated entry without notice, and threats designed to force a tenant to vacate.
RCW 59.18.255 prohibits King County landlords from refusing to rent based on a tenant's lawful source of income, including Section 8 vouchers, Social Security, veterans benefits, child support, and unemployment compensation.
The King County Housing Authority and Seattle Housing Authority jointly administer Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers across the county. Landlords must accept vouchers under RCW 59.18.255 and follow HUD inspection and rent reasonableness standards.
Washington's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act prohibits landlords from passing through new fees during a tenancy that were not disclosed in the original lease, including utility surcharges, trash fees, and capital improvement assessments under RCW 59.18.140.
Redmond RMC 5.20.070 gives legal weight to No Soliciting signs posted at residences. Commercial solicitors must leave immediately. Violating a posted sign is a civil infraction enforceable by Police.
Commercial door-to-door solicitors in Redmond need a permit from Redmond Police under RMC 5.20 after a background check. Political canvassers, religious missionaries, and nonprofit fundraisers are exempt.
Redmond parks are generally open dawn to dusk, or until 10 PM at lit facilities under RMC 12.20. After-hours presence is a civil infraction. Camping, overnight sleeping, and shelters are prohibited.
Redmond has no municipal juvenile curfew ordinance, and Washington State imposes no statewide youth curfew. The city relies on state truancy law RCW 28A.225 and general parental responsibility.
Bars and nightclubs in unincorporated King County must meet KCC 12.86 commercial-to-residential limits of 57 dBA day and 47 dBA night. WSLCB liquor license conditions often impose outdoor music curfews.
HVAC equipment in unincorporated King County must meet KCC 12.86 limits of 55 dBA day and 45 dBA night at adjacent property lines. Setback, sound blankets, or enclosures are often required for nighttime compliance.
Generators in unincorporated King County must meet KCC 12.86 limits of 55 dBA day and 45 dBA night at residential boundaries. Emergency operation during declared power outages is exempt under WAC 173-60-050.
In unincorporated King County, sidewalks are limited and primarily located in urban-designated areas. Under KCC 14.30, abutting property owners share responsibility for sidewalk maintenance and may be required to repair damaged sidewalks adjoining their property in cooperation with the Road Services Division.
Sidewalks and public rights of way in unincorporated King County must be kept clear under KCC Title 14. Obstructions like parked vehicles, overgrown vegetation, merchandise, construction materials, or debris are prohibited without a permit from the Road Services Division.
Unincorporated King County does not enforce a sit-lie ordinance, but Seattle's SMC 15.48.040 prohibits sitting or lying on downtown sidewalks between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., and Bellevue and Kent have similar narrow daytime restrictions in commercial cores.
The King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA), formed jointly by Seattle and King County in 2019, coordinates encampment outreach, sanitation, and resolution. Cleanups follow protocols requiring advance notice, belongings storage, and shelter offers.
King County and Seattle authorize transitional bridge housing including tiny-house villages, enhanced shelters, and safe parking, operated under contract by KCRHA, the Low Income Housing Institute, Mary's Place, and DESC, with streamlined permitting.
Public Health Seattle and King County posts color-coded inspection placards at restaurants countywide. Cards rate facilities Excellent, Good, OK, or Needs to Improve based on red and blue critical violation points scored over four prior inspections.
King County Board of Health Code Title 8 requires property owners to keep premises free of rat harborage and to use rodent-proof construction for refuse storage. Public Health investigates complaints in unincorporated areas and contracts with cities.
Anyone working with unpackaged food, food equipment, or utensils in King County must hold a valid Washington Food Worker Card. The card is obtained by passing an online training and exam through Public Health Seattle and King County.
Washington landlord-tenant law and PHSKC guidance require rental property owners to investigate and treat reported bed bug infestations. Tenants must cooperate with inspections, prepare units, and avoid moving infested furniture between dwellings.
King County operates needle exchange and sharps drop sites under PHSKC. Residents may not place used syringes in curbside trash or recycling. Free puncture-resistant containers and disposal kiosks are available at health clinics and transfer stations.
Washington's statewide plastic carryout bag ban under RCW 70A.530 took effect in 2021 and applies countywide. Stores cannot give thin plastic carryout bags. Reusable bags and recycled-content paper bags meeting state standards are allowed and must be sold for at least eight cents each.
Washington banned expanded polystyrene foam food service containers, coolers, and packing peanuts under RCW 70A.245. Phased restrictions began in 2023 and apply throughout King County. Compostable and recyclable alternatives are required for foodware.
RCW 70A.245 requires food service businesses statewide to provide single-use utensils, straws, condiment packets, and beverage lids only when customers ask or affirmatively select them. The rule applies to dine-in, takeout, delivery, and drive-through orders countywide.
Plastic straws are not banned outright in Washington but, under RCW 70A.245, food service businesses can only provide them when a customer specifically asks. Seattle has a stricter rule prohibiting plastic straws entirely except where required for accessibility.
Washington raised the legal age to purchase tobacco, e-cigarettes, and vapor products to 21 under RCW 70.155.010 (Tobacco 21). King County retailers must check ID for anyone appearing under 30, and Public Health Seattle and King County conducts compliance checks countywide.
Vapor product retailers in King County must hold a Washington vapor product license issued by the Liquor and Cannabis Board under RCW 70.345. Sales to minors are prohibited, online age verification is required, and self-service displays are restricted for non-cigarette tobacco and vapor products.
Washington has not enacted a statewide flavored tobacco ban, leaving flavor restrictions to limited Department of Health authority and federal FDA enforcement on flavored vapor cartridges.
King County water utilities, led by Seattle Public Utilities and the Saving Water Partnership, set voluntary lawn watering schedules and can declare mandatory restrictions during drought conditions.
King County water utilities require customers to fix detectable leaks promptly and offer high-bill leak adjustments when an undetected service-line leak causes an unusual spike in metered water use.
Several King County water utilities offer turf replacement and natural lawn rebates, encouraging homeowners to swap thirsty grass for native, drought-tolerant landscaping that protects salmon streams.
KCC Title 21A grants density bonuses, height increases, and reduced parking when projects in unincorporated King County provide deed-restricted affordable housing or other public benefits.
King County and Sound Transit promote transit-oriented communities along Link light rail corridors, requiring affordable housing, reduced parking, and pedestrian-friendly design near new stations.
The King County Comprehensive Plan, mandated by the Washington Growth Management Act, guides land use through countywide policies and detailed community and subarea plans for unincorporated areas like Vashon-Maury Island and Snoqualmie Valley.
Shared electric scooter and bike programs operate under city permits across King County, including Seattle's e-scooter pilot, Bellevue, Redmond, and Tacoma adjacent corridors, with Sound Transit station rules applied countywide.
King County's Regional Trails System and the 2018 Strategic Plan for Road Services govern bike lanes, separated cycle tracks, and shared-use paths across unincorporated roads, with cities adopting similar Complete Streets policies.
Cities across King County operate heritage tree programs that designate notable specimens for protection, while King County itself protects landmark trees indirectly through the Critical Areas Ordinance and historic preservation designations.
KCC 16.82 requires clearing and grading permits before removing significant trees in unincorporated King County, with stricter limits on critical area buffers, steep slopes, and rural retention areas under the Critical Areas Ordinance.
King County licenses adult entertainment establishments under KCC Title 6, requiring background checks, distance buffers from schools and residential zones, and separate manager and entertainer permits, with strict no-touch and lighting standards.
Massage therapists in King County must hold a Washington state license under RCW 18.108, and establishments need local business licenses; counties enforce zoning, signage, and anti-trafficking inspection rules to combat illicit operations.
Tobacco and vapor retailers in King County must hold a state Liquor and Cannabis Board license, and Public Health Seattle and King County enforces minimum age 21 sales under RCW 70.155 and vapor product rules under RCW 70.345.
Secondhand goods dealers in King County must register with local police, record seller identification, and hold purchased items for a minimum period under RCW 19.60 to allow recovery of stolen property by law enforcement.
Pawnbrokers in King County need a state-recognized local license under RCW 19.60.045, must report transactions to police, observe interest rate and fee caps, and hold pledged items at least 90 days before forfeiture.
King County and its cities respond to loud parties under noise ordinances and state disorderly conduct law (RCW 9A.84.030); a second response within a defined window can trigger costs charged to property owners.
Washington's Smoking in Public Places Act (RCW 70.160) bans indoor smoking and within 25 feet of doors and windows; King County Parks prohibits smoking and vaping in parks and natural areas under departmental rule.
Adults 21 and older may possess cannabis under Washington Initiative 502, but public consumption violates RCW 69.50.445 with civil infractions; King County Parks separately bans use in all parks and natural areas.
Washington prohibits opening or consuming alcohol in public places under RCW 66.44.100, and King County Parks bans alcohol without permit; cities maintain alcohol impact areas and downtown sidewalk drinking restrictions.
King County imposes a 4 percent lodging tax on hotel and short-term rental stays under chapter 67.28 RCW, layered on the 6.5 percent state sales tax and local rates, totaling about 10.5 percent or more.
Several King County cities, including Seattle, require hotels to retain incumbent workers for a transition period when the property changes hands, modeled on Seattle's Hotel Employees Health and Safety Initiative passed in 2016.
SeaTac's Proposition 1 sets a hospitality living wage above state minimum, and Seattle hotels of 100-plus rooms face Initiative 124 wage and benefit standards; both apply within their city limits, layered on state wages.
Washington's statewide minimum wage under RCW 49.46.020 is $16.66 per hour in 2026 with annual inflation adjustments; cities including Seattle, SeaTac, Tukwila, and Renton set higher local floors under their own ordinances.
Washington's Paid Family and Medical Leave program (RCW 49.86) provides up to 12 weeks of partially paid leave, and RCW 49.46.200 requires employers to provide one hour of paid sick leave per 40 hours worked.
Washington has no statewide predictable scheduling law and does not preempt local rules, allowing cities like Seattle to enforce secure scheduling ordinances.
King County Ordinance 18467 (2017) limits county cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, and Washington's Keep Washington Working Act (RCW 10.93.160) restricts state and local agencies from immigration questioning and detainers.
Washington has no state E-Verify mandate, and RCW 49.60 prohibits employment discrimination based on national origin or immigration-related characteristics statewide.
King County Code Enforcement prioritizes cases based on public health, safety, and environmental impact. Environmental hazards and high-priority cases are investigated within 24 hours. Non-priority cases receive initial contact within approximately 30 days. The investigation process can take weeks to months depending on complexity.
King County Code Enforcement investigates violations of county codes in unincorporated areas. Complaints can be filed by phone at (206) 296-6650, by mail, or through the online complaint form in King County's Online Permitting System. The department handles zoning, building, property maintenance, shoreline, and critical area violations.
The most frequently investigated code violations in unincorporated King County include junk and debris accumulation, construction without permits, clearing or grading without permits, junk vehicles, illegal businesses in residential zones, dangerous buildings, and critical area/shoreline violations.
In unincorporated King County, fences generally do not require a building permit unless they exceed certain height thresholds. The King County zoning code (KCC Title 21A) regulates fence height by zone. Standard residential zones allow 6-foot side/rear fences and 4-foot front yard fences. Critical area buffers may restrict fencing.
Washington is a strict two-party (all-party) consent state under RCW 9.73.030. Recording any private conversation — in person, by phone, or electronically — without the consent of all parties is a gross misdemeanor. Victims can also sue for civil damages including $100/day or $1,000 minimum plus attorney's fees.
Security cameras are legal on private property in King County. Washington is a strict two-party (all-party) consent state for audio recording under RCW 9.73.030. Video-only surveillance of public areas is generally permitted. Cameras with audio recording require consent of all parties being recorded. Cameras must not record areas with a reasonable expectation of privacy.
In unincorporated King County, storage sheds of 200 square feet or less do not require a building permit when accessory to a residential home and used for agricultural or storage purposes. Sheds over 200 square feet require a building permit. All sheds must comply with zoning setbacks.
Fences under 7 feet in height generally do not require a building permit in unincorporated King County. Fences must comply with KCC Title 21A zoning height limits (typically 6 feet rear/side, 4 feet front). Retaining walls over 4 feet require permits. Fences in critical areas may need additional review.
Most renovation work in unincorporated King County requires a building permit. Cosmetic work (painting, flooring, cabinets) is exempt. Structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work all require permits. King County adopts the Washington State Building Code, based on the International Residential Code.
Decks not exceeding 200 square feet and not more than 30 inches above grade are generally exempt from permits in unincorporated King County. Larger or elevated decks require building permits. Concrete patios at grade do not require permits. Decks in flood zones or critical areas have additional requirements.
King County does not have a specific bamboo ordinance. Running bamboo is not on the King County Noxious Weed List. However, bamboo that spreads beyond property lines may be addressed as a nuisance under Washington civil law. The Pacific Northwest climate is favorable for running bamboo, making root barriers advisable.
The King County Noxious Weed Control Board enforces control of noxious weeds classified as Class A, B, and C under RCW 17.10. Class A weeds must be eradicated by all property owners. Class B and C control varies. The county maintains a 'Weeds of Concern' list for non-regulated invasive species. King County also has the authority under KCC 21A.24 to regulate vegetation in critical areas.
Front yard vegetable and edible gardens are permitted in unincorporated King County. The county zoning code (KCC Title 21A) does not prohibit edible landscaping. King County actively promotes food gardening through its Local Food Initiative and partnership with programs like Tilth Alliance. Raised beds and food forests are common throughout the area.
Washington issues concealed pistol licenses under RCW 9.41.070 on a shall-issue basis to qualified applicants, with statewide preemption preventing local concealed carry rules.
Washington RCW 9.41.290 broadly preempts local firearm regulation, reserving authority over firearm laws to the state legislature with very limited exceptions.
Washington allows open carry of firearms by qualified adults without a permit, with limited statutory restrictions and broad preemption barring most local open carry rules.
Washington RCW 9.41.050 governs carrying firearms in vehicles statewide, requiring a concealed pistol license to carry a loaded handgun in a motor vehicle.
Washington's Growth Management Act under RCW 36.70A.170 requires counties and cities to designate and protect agricultural lands of long-term commercial significance through zoning.
Washington RCW 7.48.305 protects established agricultural activities from nuisance lawsuits when operations existed before nearby nonagricultural land uses changed the area.