Feedback is due by June 11



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May 28, 2025

Review Commerce’s new draft urban growth area guidebook

Feedback is due by June 11

Urban Growth Areas guidebook cover

Commerce is seeking comments on the new Urban Growth Areas Guidebook (PDF) [ [link removed] ]. This updated guidance is designed to help communities accommodate and plan for growth.

Draft guidance is available for public review until *Wednesday, June 11*. Comments can be submitted through an online form [ [link removed] ].

*Read the guidebook (PDF)* [ [link removed] ]

Background

The Growth Management Act requires counties to designate areas where urban growth should be encouraged. These include cities as well as unincorporated areas with urban character. The vast majority of development occurs in urban growth areas. Establishing, modifying and planning these areas is critical for housing, infrastructure, and community and economic development.

The new draft represents the first major update to Commerce’s urban growth area guidance since 2012. The document is intended to equip communities with a thorough understanding of recent statutes and rules related to urban growth areas, as well as best practices gleaned from three decades of urban growth planning.

Questions?

Contact Melissa Alofaituli at [email protected] with any questions.

Provide comment online [ [link removed] ]








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