Critical areas (stream and wetland) rules
Whatcom CountyThe County's 10-year update of its rules for building near wetlands, streams, floodplains, steep slopes and aquifers in unincorporated Whatcom. Next: Planning Commission workshop on stream buffers Oct. 22.
What we get, the trade-off, what's next
What we get
The update rewrites County code chapter 16.16, which covers wetlands, streams and fish and wildlife habitat, flood hazards, geologic hazards and aquifer recharge areas in all unincorporated areas. The County says the goals are to comply with current state and federal law, use the best available science, match the 2026 Comprehensive Plan and consider public input. No amendments were posted as of the County's project page; the Oct. 22 workshop covers the riparian management zone, the protected strip along streams.
What it costs
Not stated in the record yet.
The trade-off
Not stated in the record yet.
Timeline
- Sept. 29Update briefing to County Council; open house Sept. 30
- Oct. 8Update briefing to Planning Commission
- Oct. 22Planning Commission workshop on stream buffers (riparian management zone)
- Nov. 12Planning Commission public hearing on recommended changes
- Dec. 8County Council public hearing on final changes (introduced Nov. 24)
How to weigh in: Email comments to the address on the County's project page, or comment at any of the meetings. Planning Commission meetings are online or at 5280 Northwest Dr., Bellingham; County Council meetings are online or at 311 Grand Ave., Bellingham. The County lists the Nov. 12 and Dec. 8 public hearings for formal testimony.
The question: How wide will the new stream and wetland buffers be compared with today's, and how many parcels would that affect?
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