Our online utility bill pay system is currently down. The software vendor is looking into the issue. In the meantime, we will not proceed with shut-offs as scheduled for 2/28/23 and will update the timeline when the system returns. You can still pay by credit card, check or cash at City Hall.

Notice Of Public Hearing

Notice is hereby given that the City of Sumner COUNCIL WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING on Ordinance No. 2909 an update to Sumner Municipal Code Title 16 Environment – Critical Areas Regulations as described below. Written comments are due by November 27, 2024 to ryanw@sumnerwa.gov or comment at the public hearing. The public has the right to review the contents of the official file for the proposal, provide written comments, participate in the public hearings/meetings, and request a copy of the final decision.


Proposal Name: Ordinance No. 2909 2024 Sumner Comprehensive Plan Amendments – Critical Areas Regulations

Proposal Description: The City of Sumner is updating its Comprehensive Plan to meet the requirements of the Washington State Growth Management Act and other regional policies. As part of this update, the City will amend its Critical Areas Regulations to comply with new State requirements and current Best Available Science requirements.  Proposed regulations include:

  • Updated definitions.
    • Clarify exemptions for minor development.
    • Update criteria for a variance/hardship.
    • Allow non-conforming uses to continue if no expansion into buffers.
    • Update stream buffer widths: 
      • Current “Best Available Science” indicates buffers should be 100-225 feet.
      • Fish-Bearing Streams proposed to remain at 100 feet.
      • Non-Fish-Bearing Streams proposed to increase from 25-50 feet to 100 feet to provide adequate protection for all streams that are segments of Fish-Bearing Streams.
    • Buffer reductions:  Streamline process for reducing buffers, allow reductions to no less than 75 feet wide.

More detailed information on proposed policy and code changes is contained in the Draft 2024 Comprehensive Plan documents for the Environment Element, located on the City’s website at: https://connects.sumnerwa.gov/planning-sumners-future

Location / Parcel(s) #: City-wide

Permit Application #: CTA-2024-0003

Applicant/Rep: City of Sumner

Hearing Date and Time:  December 2, 2024 at 6:00pm

SEPA Environmental Review: The Comprehensive Plan Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), evaluating potential impacts of proposed policy and regulation changes, was issued on March 1, 2024.

Hearing Location / Zoom Virtual Meeting Link: The public is welcome to attend this hybrid meeting in-person at Sumner City Hall Council Chambers 1104 Maple Street, or virtually by using the meeting access link below.

JOIN VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM MEETING: https://sumnerwa-gov.zoom.us/j/84141683437

Or by phone:  +1(253)215-8782 (Tacoma)    Webinar ID: 841 4168 3437

Comment Period: Written comments due: November 27, 2024 by 5:00 pm, or oral comments taken during the public hearing. Submit written comments to ryanw@sumnerwa.gov, or Sumner Community Development 1104 Maple Street, Sumner WA 98390.

Associated Documents:        

Other Required Approvals: City Council, Puget Sound Regional Council, Dept of Commerce, other agencies.

Staff Contact: Direct questions to: Ryan Windish, Community Development Department, 253-299-5524 or ryanw@sumnerwa.gov

Date of Complete Application: February 22, 2024

Published/Posted/Mailed: November 18, 2024


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