A. Title. The ordinance codified in this title shall be known as, and may be cited as, the Everett Unified Development Code (“UDC”); or Title 19, Everett Municipal Code.

B. Purpose. The Unified Development Code is adopted to promote and protect the public health, safety and welfare through the orderly regulation of land uses in the city. Further, the purposes of this title are to:

A. Numbering System. The numbering scheme used in the Unified Development Code operates in the following manner:

B. Zone Designations. The zoning map establishes zone designations for all property in the city. An individual wanting to develop property in Everett should start by looking up the zone designation on the zoning map.

C. Use Tables. The use tables in Chapter 19.05 EMC list the permitted uses for each zone designation, as well as special regulations that apply to specific uses and specific locations. Use these tables to determine whether a use is allowed in a particular zone, and what type of review process is required.

D. Development Standards. After the zoning and allowable uses have been determined, the user should refer to the additional chapters of this title for development standards that apply to building placement, building design, and site development standards (parking, landscaping, streets/sidewalks, fences, screening, and exterior lighting). Table 1-1 below provides a quick reference guide to standards for basic types of development (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.).

E. Other Development Regulations. In addition to the standards in the Unified Development Code, the following additional standards apply to new development:

A. General. The development process involves review of a project for compliance with all applicable codes and standards before any construction activity may occur on a site. Most projects are minor in nature and do not require a land use permit. These projects must obtain construction permits, which are reviewed by the planning department for compliance with the standards in this title.

B. Land Use Permits. A land use application may be required for larger projects, for projects involving a modification of development standards or for projects involving special uses or activities. A land use application generally must be completed prior to submittal of an application for construction permits. Land use permits typically fall under Review Process I, II or III. Refer to EMC Title 15 to determine the review process for the different types of land use applications. In addition, some larger projects may require a review under SEPA as set forth in Chapter 19.43 EMC. Figure 1-2 below illustrates how a land use permit is processed using Review Process II.

* The preapplication meeting may be waived by the planning director.

** Any appeals of the hearing examiner decision are to superior court.