Community Development - Planning Division

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Planning Division

The Planning Division of the Community Development Department is responsible for the City's Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Code, Land Use and Development Title and other growth management plans and regulations. Amendments to these documents are prepared annually in accordance with a work program adopted by the City Council.

This division provides staff support to the City Council, Planning Commission, and the Newcastle Neighborhood Group. The department's intent on behalf of the City of Newcastle is to keep its citizens fully informed of development activities, changes to regulations, and the status of planning projects.

In addition to these goals, we strive to improve upon the quality of the built environment, protect natural areas while still promoting diverse options in housing, providing quick and accurate service, and fostering a vibrant economy.

Steve Roberge
Director of Community Development
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Sign Code Update

The City of Newcastle’s Sign Code is currently being revised. Local business owners and residents are invited to review the Draft Sign Code and share their feedback on new regulation of signs. A brief overview will be presented, as well as the opportunity for public questions, comment and input.

The City’s Planning Commission is responsible for drafting the Sign Code. It will be a topic of discussion at their monthly regular meetings (05.20.09 & 06.17.09 @ 7PM at City Hall). There will also be a Public Hearing on the Draft Sign Code (date to be determined). The City Council will make the final decision on the Sign Code.

For more information contact:
Scott Logel, AICP, Associate Planner
425-649-4444

How do I find out what my property is zoned?

Zoning is the official land use control for the City of Newcastle. It is the means for determining what uses and density are allowed on parcels throughout the City. The City’s zoning map can be viewed here. Once you know what your property is zoned, the specific regulations that apply can be found in the City’s Zoning Code here.

More detailed property information can be found on the King County Parcel Viewer at http://www.metrokc.gov/gis/mapportal/PViewer_main.htm.

What if I want to develop my property?

Developing your property can be a complicated process. In order to help property owners and potential developers understand all the rules, regulations and costs, the City requires a free pre-application conference prior to submittal of any development application.

A description of the how to schedule the conference can be found here.

Do I need to contact the City if I want to remove a tree?

If you would like to remove a tree on your property and that tree is not located in a Native Growth Protection Easement (NGPE), critical area, or is not part of a significant tree retention plan then you are allowed to remove the tree without City permission. However, it is strongly recommended that you contact the City first and let use help you determine if any of the above conditions are present.

A more detailed description The City’s official Tree Cutting Procedure is located here.

Annual Comprehensive Plan Review and Amendment

Beginning June 1, 2008 the City of Newcastle is accepting applications for its Annual Comprehensive Plan Review and Amendment process. This is an opportunity for the public or the City to request site-specific or minor policy changes to the Comprehensive Plan.

Applications are submitted to the Community Development Department and must be received by July 15, 2008 to be included on the docket. The process for requesting an amendment and application material can be found here or in person at City Hall, 13020 Newcastle Way.

If you have any questions about this process please contact:
Steve Roberge, Community Development Director, at (
425.649.4444