A. The purpose of this chapter is to designate and protect ecologically sensitive and hazardous areas (critical areas) and their functions and values, while also allowing for reasonable use of property.

B. As mandated by the Growth Management Act (GMA) (RCW 36.70A), this chapter provides protection for the critical areas of wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas, geologically hazardous areas, and frequently flooded areas. Critical aquifer recharge areas area covered in VMC 14.26.

C. This chapter implements the goals and policies of the Vancouver Comprehensive Plan, 2003-2023, under the Washington Growth Management Act and other related state and federal laws. (Ord. M-3692, Added, 02/28/2005, Sec 2)