Zoning and other LAND-USE FACTORS 

Zoning

A parcel’s zoning designation determines its basic allowable uses. Zone codes start with a letter or letters that signify the zone type. Certain zones, such as Agricultural (A), Rural Area (RA), and Urban Residential (R), also include a number that indicates the allowable residential density. Find a complete list of King County zone codes on kingcounty.gov’s About Zoning page.

If the zone code ends with -P or -SO, that indicates additional Development Conditions, either Property-Specific or through a Special District Overlay that apply to the parcel. See the Development Conditions section, below, for more information.

For more detail on the definition and purpose of each zone type, refer to the King County Code, K.C.C.21A.04.030 - K.C.C.21A.04.130.

The Permitted Uses section of the King County Code, K.C.C.21A.08, details the requirements and restrictions for specific uses in the Land Use Tables. To find out if a specific use is allowed on your property, find your base zone code (not including any -P or -SO Development Conditions suffix) in the header row:

The column for that zone will show a value, or sometimes no value, for each use listed on the table’s left side.

• No value means the specified use is not allowed, except for certain temporary uses.
• P means the use is allowed, subject to the review procedures specified in K.C.C.21A.42 and the general requirements of the code.
• C means the use is allowed, subject to the Conditional Use review procedures specified in K.C.C.21A.42 and the general requirements of the code.
• S means the use is allowed, subject to the Special Use review procedures specified in K.C.C.21A.42 and the general requirements of the code.
• If P, C, or S is followed by a number, or number + letter (C12, P14.a), that means additional development conditions apply. Find the numbered/lettered section in the text immediately following the table for more details:

Critical Areas

Critical Areas are lands with natural geologic hazards or lands that support certain unique, fragile, or valuable natural resource areas. The King County Code (KCC) restricts building on critical areas and their adjacent buffers in order to protect public health and safety, and to promote environmental health in the region.

More information about Critical Areas.

Critical Areas Designation

Where a Critical Areas Designation (CAD) is required, a Critical Areas Specialist will review your property and identify any areas subject to land use restrictions.

If your project involves...

• Subdivision of a parcel
• Installation of a septic system, well, or drain field

...you DO need a Critical Areas Designation. You can apply for one at myBuildingPermit.com.

All other projects MIGHT need a Critical Areas Designation. We’ll need more information about your parcel and project plans to determine whether a CAD is needed. Please call the Permitting Department at 206-296-6600, or email DPERWebInquiries@kingcounty.gov, to get started.

More information about a Critical Area Designation (Bulletin)

Get information about critical areas and find out how to apply for a Critical Areas Designation on the Permit Application Forms and Handouts page.

(New) Info sheets, forms, and fees

Handouts, forms, and other information

Go to the Info Sheet & Forms page to:

• Get answers to many of your questions by looking up information sheets and bulletins.
• Get forms and application materials and permit fees.
• Look up fees
• Access the Green Building Handbook