Crossposted from King County Local

King County has completed the first major update in two decades of its regulations for developing land near wetlands, streams, and other critical areas.

Developed through three years of research, planning, and public discussion, the updated King County Critical Area Ordinance is a set of land use regulations intended to safeguard environmentally critical areas, communities, and infrastructure.

The Metropolitan King County Council adopted the final ordinance on Dec. 2. Please continue reading for more information on when the ordinance becomes effective, frequently asked questions, next steps, and updated permitting guidance. Read more.