Latest updates on the Critical Areas Ordinance

During the Planning & Development Committee meeting on Monday, November 10, city staff presented their proposed recommendations and updates to the Critical Areas Ordinance.

The city's recommendations were determined based on best available science, current state law, and public feedback.

The amendments to the existing ordinance include:

• Updates terminology and definitions to reflect current state standards and incorporate the best available science.
• Inclusion of the Channel Migration Zones to provide clarity and ensure proactive management of potential stream movement areas.
• Refines stream buffer requirements, including criteria for lighting, noise, runoff control, vegetation, and buffer edges to support stream function.
• Adopts a tiered approach to wetland buffer widths, with standard and increased buffer distances based on ecological criteria, land use, and site-specific conditions, rather than a blanket increase.

View the full presentation here.

City staff will seek approval from the council on the updated ordinance next month. The first reading of the ordinance will be held on December 1, with the final reading on December 8. Staff aim to have the updated ordinance adopted by the end of 2025.