2025 Critical Areas Ordinance Update

Two-Phase Approach

Phase I – Required Updates (Adopted November 19, 2025, with Ordinance 2025-19)

Phase I of the CAO update focused on required changes to ensure compliance with state law (RCW 36.70A) and alignment with the latest guidance from the Washington Department of Commerce, Department of Ecology, and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. These updates were based on Best Available Science and reflect new requirements to protect critical areas. Required updates in Phase I included:

• Updated definitions and references to current state law and science
• Enhanced protections for anadromous fish habitat
• Adjustments to align with state guidance on wetlands and critical aquifer recharge areas
• Revised stream buffer widths and classifications

Phase II – Discretionary Amendments (Anticipated 2026)

Phase II will evaluate potential discretionary changes to improve clarity, usability, and alignment with community priorities. These updates are not mandated by state law but are an opportunity for the City to address local implementation challenges, streamline processes, and consider emerging issues such as climate resilience, habitat connectivity, and adaptive management strategies. Public engagement for Phase II is anticipated to begin in 2026.

Use the interactive map linked above to see if your property is affected by adopted changes to stream buffer widths in the 2025 Critical Areas Ordinance update, phase 1.

• Red streams on the map have amended buffer widths.
• Green streams do not have buffer amendments.

Click the link to open the interactive map: Poulsbo Critical Areas – Proposed Stream Buffers Map.