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# Lake Stevens will widen stream buffers in January
- URL: https://justabouts.com/lake-stevens-will-widen-stream-buffers-in-january/
- Published: 2026-10-26T17:04:14.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-26T17:04:14.000Z
- Description: Lake Stevens’ new rules take effect Jan. 1, 2027, with wider stream buffers and groundwater protections. Here are the changes identified by the city.
- Author: Justabouts
- Tags: Lake Stevens, #needs-review, Local news, Environment & outdoors, Government & politics

Lake Stevens will widen protective buffers around streams and introduce new groundwater standards when updated land-use rules take effect Jan. 1, 2027.

The City Council adopted Ordinance 1223 on Oct. 13, 2026, according to the city's [Oct. 16 announcement](https://www.lakestevenswa.gov/m/newsflash/Home/Detail/1159?ref=justabouts.com). It updates the city's Critical Areas Ordinance.

## Wider buffers along streams

The city's [adoption summary](https://www.lakestevenswa.gov/779/Critical-Areas-Ordinance-Update?ref=justabouts.com) identifies two changes to stream buffers:

- Fish-bearing streams: 150 feet, up from 100 feet.
- Perennial and seasonal streams classified as non-fish-bearing: 100 feet, up from 50 feet.

The city says the update is intended to protect stream habitat and water quality.

## Protecting drinking water

The ordinance also adds regulations and performance standards for critical aquifer recharge areas. These are areas important to replenishing aquifers used for drinking water.

The [Washington Department of Ecology](https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/water-quality/groundwater/protecting-aquifers/critical-aquifer-recharge-areas?ref=justabouts.com) explains that protecting these areas helps prevent groundwater pollution and maintain drinking-water supplies.

## Planning a project?

For a property-specific answer about the new rules, the city lists Principal Planner David Levitan as the contact: [dlevitan@lakestevenswa.gov](mailto:dlevitan@lakestevenswa.gov) or 425-622-9425\. Readers can also find the ordinance and supporting materials on the city's [project page](https://www.lakestevenswa.gov/779/Critical-Areas-Ordinance-Update?ref=justabouts.com).