Every project in Pierce County starts with a land use question: What does the zoning allow? Which permits apply? What will the hearing examiner require? For developers and property owners, the answers decide whether a project pencils out or stalls for years.
For more than 40 years, Halinen Law Offices has represented applicants and landowners before the City of Tacoma, Pierce County, and municipalities throughout the Puget Sound region. David Halinen reads the code the way staff and hearing examiners do, then builds a permitting strategy that anticipates their concerns before they become conditions or denials.
Common Situations We Help With
- A zoning designation or overlay appears to prohibit the use you planned for the property.
- Staff are requesting studies, dedications or conditions that seem excessive or unsupported by code.
- Neighbors or community groups have organized against your application.
- A permit was denied, or approved with conditions that make the project infeasible.
- You need a rezone, variance, conditional use permit or comprehensive plan amendment.
Facing one of these issues?
Early advice usually costs less and preserves more options. Call for a free consultation.
Call Now for a Free ConsultationHow We Approach Land Use Law
Due diligence before you buy or design
We review zoning, critical areas, shoreline jurisdiction, concurrency and development regulations so you understand what is realistically buildable.
Application strategy
We help frame applications, coordinate with your engineers and planners, and present a record that supports approval under Washington's Growth Management Act and local code.
Hearing examiner advocacy
We prepare witnesses, written argument and exhibits for public hearings, and respond to opposition testimony on the record.
Appeals and LUPA litigation
When a decision is wrong, we pursue administrative appeals and Land Use Petition Act (RCW 36.70C) review in superior court within the strict 21-day deadline.
Results You Can Expect
- A clear read on what your property can legally become
- Fewer surprise conditions and resubmittals
- A strong evidentiary record if the decision is appealed
- Faster, more predictable approvals
Land Use Law in Tacoma & Pierce County
Tacoma's North End, Proctor and Stadium districts carry different design and density standards than unincorporated Pierce County, and cities like Gig Harbor, Puyallup and University Place each apply their own codes. Knowing how each jurisdiction actually operates—who reviews what, and how long it takes—is a large part of moving a project forward.
We serve clients in Tacoma, Lakewood, University Place, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Fircrest, Ruston, Fife, Milton, Edgewood, Sumner, Bonney Lake and throughout the Puget Sound region.
Land Use Law FAQ
When should I hire a land use attorney in Tacoma?
Ideally before you close on a property or submit an application. Early advice costs far less than fixing a weak record after a denial, and it often shapes the design in ways that avoid conflict with staff.
How long do I have to appeal a land use decision in Washington?
Under the Land Use Petition Act, a petition must generally be filed and served within 21 days of the issuance of the final land use decision. Missing that deadline usually ends the case, so call promptly.
Do you handle matters outside the City of Tacoma?
Yes. We regularly work with Pierce County and cities across the Puget Sound region, including Lakewood, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Fife and University Place.
Is the first consultation really free?
Yes. The initial consultation is free so you can explain your situation and learn your options before committing to anything.