Everett, WA Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- Where required
- lots adjacent to critical area buffers
- Exemption
- geologically hazardous areas excluded
- Banned plants
- county noxious weeds, English ivy, Scotch broom
- Code chapter
- EMC 19.35 Landscaping
Summary
Everett's landscaping code requires plant species native to the Pacific Northwest on any lot adjacent to a critical area or its buffer, excluding geologically hazardous areas.
The use of plant species native to the Pacific Northwest is required on lots adjacent to critical areas and buffers, exclusive of geologically hazardous areas.
3. Species listed in Snohomish County’s noxious weeds lists (Classes A, B and C) are prohibited and shall be eradicated or controlled when present. Invasive species such as English ivy cultivars “Baltica,” “California,” “Pittsburgh,” and Star, Atlantic ivy, and Scotch broom shall not be planted.
4. See the city’s stormwater regulations for additional standards for plantings in stormwater facilities. (Ord. 4102-25 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2025; Ord. 3774-20 § 9 (Exh. 7), 2020; Ord. 3322-13 § 6, 2013; Ord. 2657-02 § 33, 2002; Ord. 1671-89, 1989. Formerly 19.35.110.)
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
EMC 19.35.055(D) sets plant-material standards for all required landscaping citywide, and specifically mandates native species for lots that adjoin a critical area (wetland, stream, or habitat area) and its buffer, except where the adjoining critical area is a geologically hazardous slope. The same section bans Snohomish County-listed noxious weeds and names invasive species such as English ivy cultivars and Scotch broom as prohibited plantings. This sits alongside Chapter 19.37's buffer-vegetation rules, which require an 80 percent native aerial cover where a critical area buffer must be enhanced or restored.
Violations & Fines
Installing non-native landscaping on a lot adjacent to a critical area buffer, or planting a Snohomish County-listed noxious weed such as Scotch broom, fails plan review under EMC 19.35.055 and can require replanting with compliant native species before final approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Everett require native plants for every yard in the city?
Can I plant English ivy in Everett landscaping?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Everett
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Native Plants in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Snohomish County handle native plants.