Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO)

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Help protect our natural areas

What is a critical area? Critical areas are wetlands, streams, lakes, steep slopes, fish or wildlife habitats, flood areas. or Wellhead Protection Areas as defined by RMC 4-11-030.

As mandated by the state, the Growth Management Act (GMA) requires the city to review and update the ordinance regulations. In addition to:

  • Integrating the Best Available Science
  • Aligning with new federal or state environmental regulations
  • Periodic reviews to keep Critical Area Ordinances (CAO) current

The ultimate goal is to better safeguard critical areas for public well-being and environmental health.

Why does it matter?

  • Saving our fish and wildlife habitat
  • Maintaining green spaces
  • Public safety from environmental damages such as flooding, landslides, etc.

Next steps

The Community and Economic Development Department is currently conducting outreach with the community. In September, a public hearing will be held. The updates to the CAO must be completed by December 31, 2025.

Help protect our natural areas

What is a critical area? Critical areas are wetlands, streams, lakes, steep slopes, fish or wildlife habitats, flood areas. or Wellhead Protection Areas as defined by RMC 4-11-030.

As mandated by the state, the Growth Management Act (GMA) requires the city to review and update the ordinance regulations. In addition to:

  • Integrating the Best Available Science
  • Aligning with new federal or state environmental regulations
  • Periodic reviews to keep Critical Area Ordinances (CAO) current

The ultimate goal is to better safeguard critical areas for public well-being and environmental health.

Why does it matter?

  • Saving our fish and wildlife habitat
  • Maintaining green spaces
  • Public safety from environmental damages such as flooding, landslides, etc.

Next steps

The Community and Economic Development Department is currently conducting outreach with the community. In September, a public hearing will be held. The updates to the CAO must be completed by December 31, 2025.

What questions do you have?

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Page published: 12 Aug 2025, 01:40 PM