Covington adopts updated critical areas code to meet Growth Management Act requirements

Planner Selena presented a year‑long update to Covington’s critical areas ordinance and explained the city had used a gap analysis with Department of Ecology model guidance to identify required changes. Selena said the largest compliance issue was stream buffer distances and described a no‑net‑loss sequencing (avoid, minimize, rectify/repair, compensate), stronger enforcement tools, and restoration standards, as well as a modified review process to allow limited improvements for existing platted properties.

Selena said the city followed best available science and used Ecology’s model ordinance where appropriate, noting that local discretion is limited for many protection standards. She explained that the update addresses four types of streams in the city and that the planning commission and staff sought to balance increased buffer protection with minimizing negative impacts on existing residents.

Council members thanked staff and the planning commission for a large and careful package. After discussion, a motion to repeal and replace Chapter 18.65, adopting updated regulations consistent with state law and best available science (exhibits A–D), was moved, seconded and passed by voice vote.

The ordinance will be submitted to the state (Commerce) to meet the periodic update deadline under the Growth Management Act, per staff remarks.