March 20, 2025

Commerce seeks feedback on draft guidance for adopting critical areas ordinances

Critical areas have protections under the Growth Management Act.

Comments due by April 11

The Department of Commerce published draft guidance for cities on adopting their county’s critical areas ordinances by reference.

Communities can weigh in through a virtual meeting and an online comment form. Comments are due by close of business Friday, April 11.

The Growth Management Act requires cities and counties to designate and protect critical areas, and to regularly update critical areas regulations. Cities with populations under 25,000 have the option of adopting their county’s critical areas regulations by reference instead of updating their own.

Public review and comment session: 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 2, via Zoom. Register

Submit Comments

About Commerce

Commerce works with local governments, businesses, community-based organizations and tribes to strengthen communities. The department’s diverse portfolio of more than 100 programs and effective public and private partnerships promote sustainable community and economic development to help all Washingtonians thrive. For more information, visit http://www.commerce.wa.gov. For information on locating or expanding a business in Washington, visit choosewashingtonstate.com.

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