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1. How do I find out if my property is within Snohomish City limits?

There are several ways to determine whether your property is located within the City limits of Snohomish, or in unincorporated Snohomish County. Do not rely on your mailing address; many "Snohomish" addresses are for properties that are actually in unincorporated areas. Check the Snohomish County Assessor's website or your property tax bill. If property taxes are paid to the County or a different jurisdiction, then the property is not in the City of Snohomish.

You may also click the link below to view the map of Snohomish City limits. If the property is outside the shaded area, it is not in Snohomish.
Snohomish City limits

2. How close to the property line can I build?

Setback requirements differ by zones. The Planning Department should be contacted to determine the setback requirements for a specific location. You can reach them by telephone at 360-282-3167 or email at planningdept@snohomishwa.gov. Building codes also have restrictions relating to property lines and construction requirements.

3. Can I raise chickens on my property?

Generally, if your property is 5,000 square feet or larger, you are allowed to have up to five hens. See our Chickens & Livestock web page for more information. Animal regulations are included in Chapter 7.04 of the Snohomish Municipal Code.

Chapter 7.04

4. How do I find out my zoning?

Click to open up the interactive zoning map. Enter your address in the search bar or navigate to the area on the map. Match the color of the property to the "Zone" legend. Zoning designations correspond to the regulations of the Snohomish Municipal Code, Title 14.

5. Do I need City approval to cut down a tree on my property?

If you live on a single family lot that is not large enough to subdivide, then prior City approval is not necessary to cut down a tree. For other circumstances, call the City prior to cutting the tree.

6. What uses are allowed on my property?

The City's land use tables are in Chapter 14.207 of the Snohomish Municipal Code.

7. What types of proposals require design review?

In general, most exterior building modifications require design review, except in the Single Family designation outside the Historic District and the Pilchuck District. In the Historic District, design review is done through the Design Review Board, an advisory body that meets monthly. Outside the Historic District, design review is done administratively by City Staff.  Check the applicable design standards for your project.  Historic District, Pilchuck District, General Design Standards.

8. Who do I contact with questions about the permit application process?

We are available to help answer questions about the permitting process. Contact the Permit Center at 360-282-3156 or stop by City Hall.  If you have already submitted a permit application, you can check the status online using the SSPP.

9. Can I subdivide my property?

Subdivision, or "platting" is a way to create new lots to be sold individually.  For most residential properties, the minimum lot size for a standard subdivision is 7,200 square feet.  So your property would need to be at least twice that (14,400 square feet) in order to get two lots.  You can find more information in the Plat FAQ and Chapter 14.215 SMC.

The platting process generally follows these steps.