Summary: City of Seattle regulations for environmentally critical areas (ECAs) (Seattle Municipal Code (SMC) Chap- ter 25.09) affect geologic hazard areas, steep slope erosion hazard areas, flood-prone areas, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas, and abandoned landfills. An applicant may request the Director of the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) to modify ECA development standards. This Tip describes the circumstances and submittal requirements under which an exception application can be considered, and includes an application form. A Tip is only a guideline and not a substitute for the City’s legal requirements. Specific requirements for exceptions to ECA development standards can be found in Section 25.09.300 of the City’s Municipal Code, and other code sections cited in this Tip. For proposals in ECA areas that are within a shoreline district (generally the land within 200 feet of the shoreline), ECA Exceptions must be requested as a Shoreline Variance. (See Tip 209, Application Requirements for Shoreline Permits)
Date Revised: 05/29/2025