Header image with Snohomish County Health Department logo and title ‘Decoding the Health Code'

Issue 1 | May 2025

Welcome to the 'Decoding the health code' newsletter!

Thanks for signing up to get updates from the Snohomish County Health Department about the Health Code Update project. This is our first email to let you know what to expect from this space. Feel free to share this email with others who might be interested. We want to reach as many people as possible early in the process.

In this newsletter, we’ll be decoding the Health Code - breaking down revisions, sharing opportunities to give feedback, and helping make sense of what’s changing and why. If you ever have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re excited to work with you on this project! 

About the health code update

The Health Department is updating the Snohomish County Board of Health Code. This project will make the Health Code easier to understand, easier to follow, and better aligned with today’s public health needs. We’ll be updating rules in several areas, including food safety, solid waste, septic systems, and more. To learn more or sign up for future updates, visit the Health Code Update webpage. 

What’s happening now

Earlier this month, the Snohomish County Board of Health passed an ordinance that adjusted general provisions related to appeals. There were two main changes: 

  1. Only final decisions issued by the Health Department are appealable. This means that warning letters or other steps taken before a final decision or order would no longer be considered appealable.
  2. If the Health Department is the lead agency for environmental reviews (as required by the State Environmental Policy Act, or SEPA), then the appeals process in the Snohomish County Code would be used instead of the appeals process set in the Health Code. 

The Board also heard two briefings about restructuring the fee schedule and creating a general variance/waiver procedure for allowable Environmental Health programs. You can find more information about these topics in the May Board of Health agenda packet. If you have thoughts about either the fee schedule reorganization or the variance/waiver procedure, please email us by June 6, 2025.
Aerial view of a forested neighborhood with scattered houses and trees.

What to expect next

In 2025, we’re focusing on the fee schedule, on-site sewage systems (OSS)/land use, and enforcement and appeals. Over the next several months, we’ll work on land use and update Title 5 of the Board of Health Code, which covers wastewater. Right now, we anticipate having a public engagement period starting this summer where you’ll be able to share your thoughts on local OSS codes and possible changes. Watch this space to stay in the loop, learn how the code is changing, and find out how you can share your perspective.

Stay in touch

We know Health Code updates can be complex, especially when they touch on important topics. That’s why our team is committed to keeping the process clear and inclusive. We’re here to listen, answer questions, and work alongside community members, businesses, and local professionals throughout this effort. Whether you're just curious or deeply involved, we’re here to help every step of the way.

  • Email us at SCBHC@snoco.org
  • Visit us at snohd.org/1844/Health-Code-Update
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Snohomish County Health Department
3020 Rucker Ave., Everett, Washington
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