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. It updates the city's Critical Areas Ordinance.
Wider buffers along streams
The city's adoption summary 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 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 or 425-622-9425. Readers can also find the ordinance and supporting materials on the city's project page.
