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INFORMATION
SHEETS - Index |
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Zoning |
Zoning is the tool local governments use to regulate
and protect land use activities. Cowlitz County's zoning regulations are
established in the Land Use and Development Code, Chapter 18.10. This chapter serves as the official land use control for
certain unincorporated areas of Cowlitz County. The Land Use Ordinance
lists permitted uses in various zoning districts, as well as setbacks
and other requirements. The regulations are intended to carry out the
general purposes of the County Comprehensive Plan.
The County's zoned areas include three basic types of
zoning districts.
- Residential zoning districts are
intended primarily to preserve and protect housing and related
developments and activities.
- Commercial zoning districts are areas
set aside mainly for retail trade, services, and business activity.
- Industrial zoning districts are reserved
for manufacturing, assembly, processing, and related activities.
The basic purpose of these districts is to prevent
land use conflicts by allowing only compatible uses to locate in the
same area. Zoning requirements are considered for each development
proposal, as well as related building code requirements. All development
proposals, including subdivisions and building permit applications, is
reviewed for consistency with the County's Land Use Ordinance and
Comprehensive Plan policies.
Only a portion of Cowlitz County is
regulated through zoning. The Zoning map is used in coordination with
CCC18.10. The public can view the official
Zoning Land Use Map Book or
view the unofficial maps on the
EPIC site.
If a proposed project or use is not consistent with the zoning code
or Comprehensive Plan a property owner may be able to use one of the
following alternatives to achieve their development goals:
Special Use Permit (RCW 36.70, CCC 18.10.280). For those
projects that may not be explicitly permitted in a specific land use
zone district, a special use may be applicable. A special use allows for
those activities, works or structures to be allowed provided they meet
certain criteria.
Variance (RCW
36.70, CCC 18.10.340). A variance is required when a proposed
development does not meet the strict interpretation of the zoning code
requirements.
Comprehensive
Plan Map/Text Amendment (RCW 36.70). The Cowlitz County
Comprehensive Plan’s purpose is to manage the county’s growth in an
orderly, positive, and constructive fashion. In order to adjust the
comprehensive plan map land use designations or text amendment, the
property owner must apply to amend the designation.
Zoning Map/Text
Amendment (RCW 36.70.550, CCC 18.10.410-490). Cowlitz
County’s Land Use Ordinance lists permitted uses in various zoning
districts. If an applicant wishes to rezone the property or make a
change in the text of the ordinance, a zoning map amendment or text
amendment is required .
The Zoning
and Comprehensive Plan maps are available for review by going to
EPIC or coming into the
Planning Division counter from 8:00 to 5:00 p.m., Monday
through Friday. For official Zoning or Comprehensive Plan
designation calls, please contact the Planning Department. |
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