Why is there a drain in your yard? What does it connect to? Is this a low spot that rain water in the area drains to? Does the water drain off fairly quickly or not?

I believe it connects to a pond about 500 get from us. Our neighborhood sits near wetlands, there are two drains one on each corner of the yard. I wouldn't say it's typical for this area, first house I've ever lived in with drains. It's "lower" for sure than the rest of the landscape but not by much. We noticed the yard was had fallen into a poor state when we bohhnt the place but the owner had a large breed dog that had been allowed to pretty much destroy it, so we figured we'd throw some money at the problem later on, but still not sure if we can hire a pro anytime soon.

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I wouldn't say it drains off quickly, the water you see in the picture drained away within about 3 hours, except for a small puddle next to it. It doesn't seem obstructed or anything there is some ind of water permeable fabric to keep it from getting blogged with debris.

It just doesn't seem like the drains are low enough to drain that effectlivly

Gardengal lives in your region and can probably give advice tailored for Washington. Don't know if she is reading. I am concerned about standing water interfering with a planting. If you use the sprinkler or it rains, does the water run off or soak in or pool on top? Is the drain line to the pond clear or does it back up?

You answered my questions while I was asking them. I think you need to consult with someone locally about the drainage.

It doesn't seem to back up, just seems to soak into the ground more than make its way to the drain

We've had landscaper consults before but they never mentioned much about the drains or the water pooling in the yard. Maybe some discussion about leveling things out was all that was said

If the water soaks into the ground instead of standing around, maybe the drainage is okay.

In case Gardengal doesn't chime in, here is a webpage from WSU where you get their publications on turfgrass. You may also be able to advice from their extension offices.

Drains in gardens are relatively common in rural areas of the northwest, usually because of high water tables and adjacent wetlands. In fact, water retention ponds are common in most new developments these days and that's where everyone's runoff is directed. And you need a drain to do so :-))

Drainage issues are really something that needs to be investigated in person, as are slopes and grading.....it is virtually impossible to give meaningful advice online without seeing the situation in person. It would be well worth the investment to hire a landscaper skilled in these issues for an onsite consultation, You don't even want to consider planting or improving a lawn or anything else until you get this issue - if it really is one - resolved.

If you want to message me directly with your details (and a more specific location) I might be able to give you some names of reputable folks in the biz.