Washington Administrative Code Title 222 - Forest Practices Board
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 222 – Forest Practices Board
WAC Title 222 contains the rules adopted by the Washington State Forest Practices Board, which governs forest practices on public and private lands in Washington. These regulations are designed to ensure that timber harvesting and related activities are conducted in a way that protects public resources such as water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and soil stability, while supporting sustainable forestry.
🔍 Key Areas Covered in Title 222:
Forest Practices Rules (WAC 222-10 to 222-50):
Classifications of forest practices (Class I-IV)
Permit requirements
Reforestation requirements
Harvesting and road construction standards
Protection of water, fish, wildlife, and cultural resources
Applications and Permits (WAC 222-20):
Forest Practices Applications (FPA)
SEPA (State Environmental Policy Act) review
Timing and duration of forest practice activities
Water Typing and Riparian Management Zones (WAC 222-16 & WAC 222-30):
Stream classification (Type S, F, Np, Ns)
Buffer zones to protect fish habitat and water quality
Specific rules for timber harvesting near streams and wetlands
Cultural Resources Protection (WAC 222-42):
Identifying and protecting Native American and historic cultural sites
Enforcement and Compliance (WAC 222-46):
Inspections, notices to comply, stop work orders
Penalties for violations
Adaptive Management Program (WAC 222-12):
Ongoing review of forest practices based on scientific research
Ensures rules adapt to new environmental findings
🏛️ Authority & Oversight:
The Forest Practices Board operates under RCW 76.09, the Forest Practices Act.
Administered by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in collaboration with other agencies like the Department of Ecology, Department of Fish and Wildlife, and tribal governments.
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