Show All Answers

1. Do I need a permit for a temporary street closure or special event?

Yes. You may submit the Street Fair Application electronically here.

2. How do I find out about pending or active projects in my neighborhood?

If you see a “Public Notice - Land Use  Application” sign posted or there is construction occurring and you would like to know more about what is proposed, call the Planning, Community & Economic Development at 360-299-1969 or stop by the office located at the City Hall, 904 6th Street. Staff can provide additional details regarding the application and review process; the project file may also be viewed.

3. What can I do with my property?

If you're unsure about what is allowed on your property, first take a look at a zoning map and determine which zone your property is in. Then you may go to that zoning section of the Anacortes Municipal Code, within Title 17 and check the permitted uses and conditional uses. If you're still unsure, check with staff in the Planning Division. 

If you have a concept in mind and you're more concerned about complications, requirements, and cost of what you want to build, you may apply for a pre-application conference. In a pre-application conference, members of several departments including Building Services, Planning Services, Public Works, Fire, and Water Departments will review your proposal and provide feedback. You may find the application form under "Applications, Forms, & Checklists", and the meetings are usually scheduled roughly two weeks in advance, taking place on Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m. or 2:00 p.m. There is currently no fee to apply. 

4. What do I need to know if I want to subdivide or short plat my property?

Subdividing or short platting property involves review by the City's Planning, Community and Economic Development, and Fire, Public Works, and Building Departments. Most short plats are reviewed administratively, whereas formal subdivisions (10 or more lots) require a public hearing. Prior to submittal of a formal application, an informal preliminary meeting with city staff (Development Review Group) is generally required. The purpose of this meeting is to identify potential issues and requirements for the proposal. Some topics of review include zoning requirements, such as minimum lot sizes and maximum density permitted; potential critical areas; tree preservation; and access, utility and stormwater requirements and improvements; etc. The City permit center has information sheets, application checklists and forms for different kinds of development proposals.

5. What is the process to propose and make changes to the City Comp Plan?

Apply in writing to the City Planning Department by March 31 of each year. The City staff batches up the requests, holds public hearing(s), and secures a decision from the City Council later that year.

6. What is the zoning of my property?

You can find out what a specific property is zoned by reviewing the City’s zoning map, which is located online. You can also call the Planning, Community & Economic Development Department (PCED) at 360-299-1969 PCED staff can identify the zoning and provide information regarding the specific regulations for the particular zone.