Everett, WA Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Plan required
- Grading plan before site disturbance
- Approval
- City engineer sign-off required
- Erosion control
- Must meet city drainage ordinance
- Critical areas
- Clearing may be barred pre-permit
- Debris
- No burial in critical areas
Summary
Everett requires a city-approved grading plan before any site work disturbs natural features, under Everett Municipal Code Section 19.26.080, and holds erosion-control plans to city standards and the city's drainage ordinance.
A. Before any site modification where existing natural features would be disturbed or removed, a grading plan meeting city standards and the provisions of Chapters 19.24 through 19.27 EMC and this title must be submitted and approved by the city engineer showing the extent of the proposed modification. ... C. All erosion control plans must be in compliance with city standards and the city’s drainage ordinance. D. In critical drainage areas or on sites that are classified as critical areas, the city may prohibit clearing of lots until building permits have been issued.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 4194-26, passed July 29, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Everett Municipal Code Section 19.26.080 requires a grading plan meeting city standards, approved by the city engineer, before any site modification that would disturb or remove existing natural features on land being divided. Debris and waste materials may not be buried on the land or deposited in any critical area, and all erosion control plans must comply with city standards and the city's drainage ordinance. Grading must follow sound engineering practice, protect slope stability, and minimize the need for rockeries and retaining walls along lot lines and streets. In critical drainage areas, or on sites classified as critical areas, the city may prohibit clearing of a lot until building permits are issued.
Violations & Fines
Grading without an approved plan is enforced under Chapter 1.20 EMC, which authorizes stop-work orders and a default civil penalty of $250 per violation per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to grade my Everett property?
What happens to erosion control during grading in Everett?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Everett
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Erosion Control in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Snohomish County handle erosion control.