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1. What are Critical Areas?

The Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA) identifies 5 Critical Areas, which include Wetlands, Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas (CARA’s), Frequently Flooded Areas, Geologically Hazardous Areas, and Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas. Because Yakima County plans under the GMA, it is required to protect Critical Areas. Yakima County protects critical areas through administration of the Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO).

Critical Areas requirements protect key functions that enhance our environment and protect us from hazards. Benefits of Critical Areas include aesthetics and recreation, clean drinking water, wildlife and aquatic life habitat, floodwater storage, and groundwater recharge, among others. Once these areas are damaged or lost, they are very expensive to restore. The costs of floods, landslides, and contaminated drinking water are not only monetarily expensive, but can also cost lives.

2. Will my project need a Critical Areas Permit?

Some projects located near or within Critical Areas need a permit prior to development. Other project will be eligible for a Critical Areas exemption. Prior to submitting an application for a Critical Areas Permit/Exemption, a pre-application meeting with Natural Resources Staff is required. Site Visits are conducted as needed or as requested. The pre-application meeting and early assistance is designed to help you understand the review process and think about ways to design the project to have the least impact on the Critical Area(s) and surrounding environment.