Executive/Council Action Form (ECAF)
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Ordinance 25-077, relating to Growth Management; defining Religious Facilities; amending Snohomish County Code (SCC) Chapters 30.22, 30.23, 30.26, 30.27, 30.28, 30.31f, 30.32b, 30.32e, 30.67, 30.91c, and 30.91e; repealing SCC 30.91c.085; and adding a new section to Chapter 30.91r SCC
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DEPARTMENT: Planning and Development Services
ORIGINATOR: Jennifer Cao
EXECUTIVE RECOMMENDATION: Approved by Ken Klein 10/29/25
PURPOSE: To adopt code amendments to Title 30 of Snohomish County Code (SCC) relating to the definition of church. The goal of this amendment is to find a neutral term for religious activities not associated with a particular religion. This will increase the clarity and efficiency of the permitting process, while ensuring that development regulations continue to effectively implement adopted policies in both state law and the Growth Management Act Comprehensive Plan (GMACP).
BACKGROUND: The county code defines any religious worship facility as a “church.” “Church” refers to a building, including all accessory structures or meeting places, primarily intended for religious services and/or where individuals regularly assemble for religious worship. This definition encompasses synagogues, temples, mosques, reading rooms, and other places dedicated to religious worship and activities. Although the term “church” includes various religious buildings within the County Code, in general, it is a term most commonly associated with Christian worship facilities. Being that this definition was adopted in September of 2015 and has not been updated since, this change is an important step toward recognizing and respecting the diversity of faiths in our community. PDS briefed the Planning Commission on the proposed code amendments on June 24, 2025. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on July 22, 2025, and they recommend adoption as outlined in their July 23, 2025 letter, staff report dated June 6, 2025.
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OTHER DEPARTMENTAL REVIEW/COMMENTS: Reviewed/approved by Finance - Nathan Kennedy 10/28/25. AATF: Elie Steinberg