In the event that an asserted lot was not created pursuant to a formal plat action, or where there is a question of a lot’s legality, a property owner may apply for a certificate of land division compliance.

Although a certificate of compliance certifies the legality of the parcel, it neither ensures that it is a buildable parcel, nor entitles the parcel owner to a construction permit or other development permits or approvals. To obtain a construction permit or other land use approval for the parcel, the owner must complete the appropriate application process and meet all existing regulations.

If the City determines that the parcel was created in compliance with the provisions of Chapter 58.17 RCW and local ordinances at the time of its creation, a certificate of compliance may be issued. If the parcel was not created in compliance with those provisions, a conditional certificate of compliance or a notice of violation may be issued. A notice of violation is a recorded document notifying the owner and subsequent owners that the parcel was created in violation of Chapter 58.17 RCW and local ordinances. A landowner, upon receipt of the City’s intent to file a notice of violation may apply for a conditional certificate of compliance. The conditions which must be satisfied before a property is declared to be a legal lot, or before issuance of any permit or other approval, will typically be the same as those that would have been applied if the parcel had been legally created using the land division process. The City will not record the notice of violation if a conditional certificate is issued. [Ord. 591 § 12, 2015.]