FAQs

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.

Changes to the existing code to ensure ‘Best Available Science’ (BAS) is applied

Best Available Science (BAS) refers to the use of credible, peer-reviewed scientific information and methodologies in the development and application of critical area regulations.

It ensures that policies and standards are grounded in reliable, up-to-date scientific understanding to protect critical areas effectively.

This approach ensures that Renton's critical area regulations remain aligned with environmental science and best practices.

Critical areas identified through site-specific assessments and boundaries are determined by professional reports and administrator approval.

To see if you are located on or near a critical area, check out the city's interactive map.

Areas in a floodplain where a stream or river channel can be expected to move naturally over time in response to gravity and topography. Water bodies such as rivers and streams gain or release energy as they flow,  spreading out sediments, building new areas, and supporting a variety of fish, wildlife, and vegetation.