Under the Washington State Growth Management Act, local governments in the state have to adopt, regularly amend, and periodically update an Urban Area Comprehensive Plan. The plan helps guide long-range land use policy in urban areas by establishing a community vision for effectively managing growth over a 20-year period.

Adopted by the Yakima City Council in 2017, the Yakima Urban Area Comprehensive Plan 2040 addresses issues including, among others, the preservation of natural resources, ensuring adequate levels of public services are provided, protecting historic land, sites, and structures, encouraging sustainable economic development, and retaining open space while also developing recreational opportunities. Those objectives are accomplished through zoning, permitting, and the implementation of other regulatory controls.

State law allows community members to request amendments to the Comprehensive Plan annually. The City of Yakima Planning Commission will formally open this year’s Comprehensive Plan amendment process during its meeting on Wednesday, February 22^nd, beginning at 3:00 pm in the Council Chambers at Yakima City Hall, 129 North 2^nd Street.

Amendment applications will be available starting Wednesday, February 22^nd, from the City’s Planning Division, which is located on the 2^nd floor of City Hall.

Applications, along with associated fees, have to be received by the Planning Division by 5:00 p.m. on April 28^th.

Click Planning Division (yakimawa.gov) for more on the Comprehensive Plan Amendment Process as well as links to application forms and fees. The City of Yakima Planning Division can be reached at 509-575-6183.