This page highlights the latest permitting news and information, providing a quick overview of changes that may affect the application and permitting process and links to more details. If you'd like to be notified about permitting news and information, subscribe to the Permitting email list and we'll notify you when this page changes and email the updates to you.

Community Planning & Economic Development (CPED) is excited to announce the release of the Critical Areas Ordinance Administrative Procedures Manual—a comprehensive new resource designed to enhance clarity, consistency, and transparency in implementing the County’s Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO), as established in Thurston County Code (TCC) Title 24.

Dated June 16, 2025, the manual outlines key administrative procedures for interpreting and implementing the CAO, which regulates land development in and around environmentally sensitive areas such as wetlands, geologic hazard zones, and fish and wildlife habitats within unincorporated Thurston County.

“This manual serves as both a staff guide and a community resource,” said Ashley Arai, Director of CPED. “It reflects our commitment to ensuring that environmental protection and property development can move forward with predictability, fairness, and sound science.”

What is the purpose and use of the manual?

The Administrative Procedures Manual supports CPED’s role in building and land-use permit decisions by helping to interpret the technical and legal provisions of the CAO. It is structured to:

• Provide clear administrative guidance,
• Clarify when professional or third-party analysis is needed,
• Offer detailed procedures for appeals, code interpretations, and recordation requirements.

The manual also provides guidance on using County mapping resources, such as wetland and geologic hazard layers, and explains the criteria and procedures for waiving special reporting requirements.

Where can I review the manual?

The Critical Areas Ordinance Administrative Procedures Manual is available for public review and can be accessed:

• Online on the New Codes, Policies, and Procedures Webpage
• In-person at the Thurston County Building Development Center

The manual will be periodically updated to reflect evolving interpretations, legal requirements, and policy decisions.

Public Inquiries and Feedback

Community members, consultants, and applicants with questions about the manual or feedback for future updates are encouraged to contact the CPED department directly at Planning@co.thurston.wa.us.

CPED is implementing a new policy requiring scheduled intake appointments for certain permit applications.

This requirement applies to:

• Type II and Type III permits
• Projects with SEPA exemptions

Why This Change?

We’ve observed that most Type II and III applications take over an hour to review at the counter, leading to significant delays. By implementing scheduled appointments, we aim to streamline the process, reduce wait times, and improve overall service at the planning desk.

Appointment Availability

Appointments will be available on the following days:

📅 Mondays

• 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM (1.5 hours)
• 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM (1.5 hours)

📅 Thursdays

• 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM (1.5 hours)
• 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM (1.5 hours)

Flexibility & Future Adjustments

We understand that demand may vary, and we are committed to remaining flexible. If additional time slots are needed, we will expand hours or adjust scheduling to better accommodate applicants while maintaining efficiency.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit scheduling page. If you are experiencing technical issues with scheduling, please contact Community Development at planning@co.thurston.co.us.

Thank you for your cooperation as we work to enhance our services!

New Permit Process Improvements Take Effect March 1, 2025

A new state law, SB5290, reduces permitting timelines. To comply, we’re making changes:   

• We will only accept complete application packets. Submittal checked at counter before intake. 
• Concurrent Critical Areas Review required when you apply. 
  • A Critical Areas Review is the official permit required if a project is in proximity (within 400 feet) to critical areas. 
  • Projects near critical areas may require additional biological reports by experts. Find details on the Critical Areas Review webpage. 
  • To ask questions about your specific project, visit the permit office or contact us at planning@co.thurston.wa.us.
• New forms & checklists available now on our Applications & Forms page.

About Critical Areas & How to See if they are mapped on a Property

• These areas are considered critical areas. See the Critical Areas Ordinance Code - Title 24.
• Check to see if a property is mapped with critical areas. There are three ways:
  1. Open the critical areas property information sheet for a specific property using the parcel number. To get parcel number enter address into this form first.
  2. Check for critical areas using the county's online Permitting map. (For reference only. Current ground conditions at a property now or at the time of application may not be fully represented on map.)
  3. Visit the Permit Office Monday - Friday between 8 a.m.- 3:45 p.m. See Office Hours & Location. 

Where to Find the CAD Determination Form & More information

• Go to the Applications & Forms page (scroll down to Critical Areas).
• For more information, thoroughly review the Permitting Process Steps on the Plan Your Project page. 

Subscribe to our email list for occasional updates

• Subscribe to the Permitting email list and we'll send information and updates to your email inbox as they become available.