Olympia, WA Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Erosion and sediment control in the City of Olympia runs through a technical manual that the code adopts as law. Section 13.16.017 adopts the City of Olympia Drainage Design and Erosion Control Manual, as amended and updated, by reference as though fully set forth in chapter 13.16. One copy must be held in the office of the City Clerk and be available to the public. Section 13.16.018 makes the Manual control and prevail over any provisions of current ordinances, development standards or policies insofar as a conflict occurs. Under § 13.16.020, the owner of a parcel must apply to the Community Planning and Development Department for an engineering permit before stormwater is discharged to the storm drainage system, and the Manual governs the permit terms and conditions.

The clearing ordinance in chapter 16.48 adds site-level requirements. A clearing permit application must include a plot plan showing property boundaries, the extent of proposed clearing, buffer areas and the location and description of proposed erosion-control devices or structures under § 16.48.060(A). The building official decides within 20 working days of a completed application. A permit expires one year from issuance, with one extension of 6 months for good cause. Under § 16.48.060(D), an application penalty fee triple the regular fee applies to any grading or clearing done before the permit is issued. Section 16.48.050 exempts several cases, including emergency clearing for immediate danger to life or property and clearing on a parcel under 7,000 square feet for a single-family or duplex residence, except within 300 feet of critical areas.

One of the stated purposes in § 16.48.020 is to ensure prompt restoration, replanting and effective erosion control of property after land clearing and grading. Section 16.48.070 lets the building official require performance bonds, and under § 16.48.090 an aggrieved person has fourteen calendar days to appeal to the Hearing Examiner.