Yakima County has no coast, but the Yakima and Naches rivers are shorelines of the state. Under the Shoreline Management Act, development within 200 feet of these rivers needs a shoreline permit under the county's Shoreline Master Program.
Washington's Shoreline Management Act, RCW 90.58, applies to the Yakima, Naches, and other qualifying rivers and lakes in Yakima County. Development within 200 feet of the ordinary high-water mark falls under the county's Shoreline Master Program, which sets buffers, vegetation-conservation, and no-net-loss habitat standards to protect ESA-listed salmon and steelhead. Depending on the work, a shoreline substantial development permit, conditional use permit, or documented exemption is required. Hard armoring such as riprap and bulkheads faces strict review, with bioengineered bank stabilization preferred. Building in the floodway and channel migration zone is heavily restricted.
Building, filling, or clearing within shoreline jurisdiction without the required permit violates RCW 90.58 and the Shoreline Master Program, bringing stop-work orders, penalties up to $1,000 per day, and orders to restore habitat.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County may require hosts to carry liability insurance for short-term rental properties. Minimum coverage amounts vary by jurisdiction.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County limits the number of guests allowed in short-term rental properties. Occupancy caps are typically based on bedroom count or square footage to p...
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County requires replacement planting when permitted trees are removed. Replacement ratios and species specifications ensure canopy preservation.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County designates heritage or landmark trees based on size, age, or species. Removal or damage to heritage trees carries significant penalties.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County requires permits to remove trees above a certain size on private property. Protected species and street trees have additional restrictions.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County places few limits on residential holiday decorations. No permit is required to light up your own home. Displays should not block sidewalks or i...
See how Yakima County's coastal development rules stack up against other locations.
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