Show All Answers

1. What are the first steps in planning my project?

• Check out our online mapping tool, EPIC, to learn more about the Comprehensive Plan and zoning classification to of your property, as well as potential environmental constraints.
• Arrange a free staff consultation to get preliminary feedback from County staff that will help you with your project.
• Apply for Planning Clearance, which is the first step in official review of your project (insert link https://www.co.cowlitz.wa.us/594/Planning-Clearance
• If you don’t own the property yet, but want to start the planning process, you will need a signed letter of authorization from the owner.

2. What are my setbacks?

• There are land use setbacks established by zoning.  There may also be setbacks required by the Building Code, Fire Code, and/or to meet environmental regulations. Talk with a Planner and staff from the Building Division to learn more.

3. Can I meet with County staff to discuss my project?

Sure! Please see our staff consultation page for information on arranging a free preliminary meeting with County staff. 

4. How do I get an address for my property?

• If you are planning a project, you can apply for Planning Clearance, which is valid for 5 years. You will be assigned an address as part of that process.
• If you need an address but have no plans to develop the property in the near future, you can apply for that separately. Please contact a Planner to discuss the information needed.

5. Can I build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on my property?

• Probably! Accessory dwelling units can be either attached to a primary residence or detached as a separate structure. Classic examples are a dwelling above a garage, or a cottage for rental income. ADU’s require planning approval and a residential building permit. They can be manufactured or modular homes.  
• The maximum size of an ADU is 1,200 square feet.
• In areas classified as Urban and Suburban in the Comprehensive Plan, you may choose to build up to two ADU’s – one attached and one detached. In all other areas of the county, one ADU is allowed.
• There is no restriction on owner-occupancy of the primary residence or the ADU – one or both can be occupied by tenants.
• If you are using a domestic well and/or onsite septic system for the ADU, you will need to talk with the Environmental Health Unit about their requirements. Their email is omseptic@cowlitzwa.gov and phone number is 360-414-5599 - press 5 and option 2.

6. Does Cowlitz County charge "impact fees" for schools, parks, transportation, etc., for new development?

• No, Cowlitz County does not fully plan under the State Growth Management Act, and therefore does not charge impact fees.

7. Do I need to manage stormwater from my project?

• Public Works reviews permits for compliance with stormwater requirements. Please see their information here: include hyperlink to: https://www.co.cowlitz.wa.us/931/Stormwater-Division