The City of Tacoma is proposing changes to the Critical Areas Ordinance that would weaken protections for wetlands, streams, and wildlife habitat. These rollbacks could cause long-term harm to our water, climate resilience, and public health. CHB is urging the Planning Commission to reject or substantially revise the proposed updates to Tacoma’s Critical Areas Ordinance.
WHAT’S AT RISK:
More wetlands could be filled in: New exemptions allow developers to destroy “small” wetlands without proper review or mitigation.
Weaker buffers: Reduced protections around streams and wildlife corridors would fragment habitats and increase pollution.
Expanding development: Vague “public interest” exemptions and “interrupted buffer” rules make it easier to build in sensitive areas.
No solid science: The City hasn’t presented a clear picture of how many square feet of wetland this change could impact, despite tools like LiDAR being available.
Attend the Public Hearing:
In Person at Council Chambers
1st Floor, Tacoma Municipal Building
747 Market Street, Tacoma, WA 98402
The City of Tacoma is proposing changes to the Critical Areas Ordinance that would weaken protections for wetlands, streams, and wildlife habitat. These rollbacks could cause long-term harm to our water, climate resilience, and public health. CHB is urging the Planning Commission to reject or substantially revise the proposed updates to Tacoma’s Critical Areas Ordinance.
WHAT’S AT RISK:
More wetlands could be filled in: New exemptions allow developers to destroy “small” wetlands without proper review or mitigation.
Weaker buffers: Reduced protections around streams and wildlife corridors would fragment habitats and increase pollution.
Expanding development: Vague “public interest” exemptions and “interrupted buffer” rules make it easier to build in sensitive areas.
No solid science: The City hasn’t presented a clear picture of how many square feet of wetland this change could impact, despite tools like LiDAR being available.
Attend the Public Hearing:
1st Floor, Tacoma Municipal Building
747 Market Street, Tacoma, WA 98402
Webinar Link: www.zoom.us/j/84416624153
Dial-in Option: Call 253-215-8782
Meeting ID: 844 1662 4153
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Tacoma, WA United States + Google Map