CODE
GHCC 17.80 - Variances, Conditional Use Permits and Appeals
WHAT IS A CONDITIONAL USE?
A conditional use is defined as a use listed in any given zone that is only permitted after review and approval by the Board of Adjustment (BOA). The granting of a Conditional Use Permit imposes performance standards contained within Title 17 to make the conditional use compatible with other permitted uses in the same vicinity and zone (GHCC 17.08.010).
A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is the documented evidence of authority granted by the Board of Adjustment (BOA) to locate a conditional use at a particular location (GHCC 17.08.010). The purpose of a CUP is:
- To assure, by means of imposing special conditions and requirements on development, that the compatibility of uses are maintained, considering other existing and potential uses within the general area of the proposed use;
- The conditions imposed will reasonably assure that nuisance or hazard to life or property will not develop. The BOA may not use a CUP to reduce the zoning requirements of the zone in which the use is to locate. Such reduction of requirements shall be accomplished through the medium of a Variance.
WHAT CONDITIONAL USES ARE ALLOWED?
To be eligible for a CUP, the proposed use must be consistent with Title 17 and meet the required showings per GHCC 17.80.040. Each zoning district contains a list of allowed conditional uses. You can learn more about these by reviewing Grays Harbor County Code Title 17.
What zoning district is my property located in?
- Visit the Planning & Building online parcel search tool.
- Input an address, owner name, or parcel number.
- From the map, click on "Change Layers" icon in the upper right hand corner and check the "Zoning" layer (this may take a few moments to display).
CUP APPLICATION PROCESS
A project that requires a CUP must begin at STEP 1: Site Plan Review of the permitting process. CUP applications will not be accepted prior to STEP 1. A complete CUP application must be received a minimum of five (5) weeks in advance of the next scheduled meeting.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
CUP's are given consideration at a public hearing held by the BOA. The BOA may deny any application if the characteristics of the intended use would create an incompatible or hazardous condition.
Please refer to Bulletin #9 - Guide to Public Hearings for more information.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
- Bulletin #9 - Guide to Public Hearings
- Bulletin #5 - How to appeal a Conditional Use Permit or Variance Decision
- Board of Adjustment
NEED HELP?
Please contact a Permit Coordinator if you have questions or need further assistance.