Critical Areas 

The Town is endeavoring to bring into compliance its critical areas regulations. As part of the comprehensive plan update process, critical areas must be updated pursuant to chapter 36.70A RCW (the Growth Management Act). The update process must be completed by December of 2025. This update is in coordination with WDFW, ECY, COM and other relevant state agencies.

From the Department of Commerce:

RCW 36.70A.030(5) defines five types of critical areas:

• Wetlands
• Areas with a critical recharging effect on aquifers used for potable water.
• Frequently flooded areas.
• Geologically hazardous areas.
• Fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas.

All critical areas must be designated and their functions and values protected using the best available scientific information – known as best available science or BAS. Salmonids play an extremely important role in the ecosystem and are vital cultural and economic resources, therefore jurisdictions must also “give special consideration to conservation and protection measures necessary to preserve or enhance anadromous fisheries.”

Critical Areas Code Timeline

Draft maps showing possible critical areas in the Town will be forthcoming after review by the Town's Planning Commission.

Reference Materials (URLs are written out for accessibility):

• Small Communities Critical Areas Ordinance Implementation Guidebook
• Critical Areas Checklist
• Critical Areas Handbook
• WDFW Checklist
• Commerce Critical Areas Webpage