Recently, The Everett Herald reported that the City of Edmonds has issued a temporary moratorium on certain types of development within parts of the Deer Creek Critical Aquifer Recharge Area (CARA).

For many homeowners, particularly those navigating construction or Edmonds remodeling for the first time, the term moratorium can carry uncertainty. This overview offers clarity on the issue and highlights how Chermak Construction supports homeowners through the process with confidence.

First Things First: What Is a Moratorium?

A moratorium is simply a temporary pause. It is not permanent, and it does not mean “no forever.”

In this case, the City of Edmonds has paused approval of certain development permits within the Deer Creek Critical Aquifer Recharge Area (CARA). This pause gives the city time to study how stormwater systems and so‑called “forever chemicals” (PFAS) could affect the area’s drinking water.

Rather than allowing homeowners to spend time and money on permits that might change or be denied later, the city chose to pause, study the issue carefully, and create clearer, science‑based rules moving forward.

Where and Why Deer Creek Matters

Deer Creek begins in Woodway and stretches through south Edmonds to Highway 99. The Deer Creek Aquifer provides drinking water to:

• Residents in Edmonds south of 220th St SW
• The Esperance area
• The Town of Woodway

Because this aquifer plays a direct role in the region’s drinking water supply, city leaders and environmental experts raised concerns that certain stormwater systems could allow PFAS, chemicals that do not break down easily and have been linked to health risks to enter the water.

As a result, Edmonds updated its development codes. Those changes made it difficult to approve new projects safely without additional study, leading the city to adopt a six‑month moratorium while clearer rules are developed.

What This Means for Edmonds Homeowners

If you live in or near the affected area, here’s the simple version:

• You may not be able to obtain certain permits right now
• This does not cancel future Edmonds remodels or improvements
• The pause is meant to prevent wasted money, delays, and confusion

For homeowners who are new to construction or remodeling, this kind of uncertainty can feel overwhelming. That’s where having the right partner makes a difference.

How Chermak Construction Helps During a Moratorium

At Chermak Construction, we’ve seen situations like this before. Regulations changes, cities’ pauses and rules evolve. What doesn’t change is our approach:

At Chermak, we listen first, explain the options clearly, and guide homeowners toward decisions that best serve their goals and circumstances

With over 45 years of experience working in Edmonds and surrounding communities, Chermak has built a reputation for doing things the right way—working with the city, and keeping homeowners fully informed every step of the way.

Here’s how we help during a moratorium:

• Early guidance: We help you understand whether your property or project is affected before you spend money on plans or permits.
• Smart planning: Some projects can be redesigned, phased, or prepared so they’re ready to move forward the moment the moratorium lifts.
• City‑savvy navigation: We stay up to date on local regulations and translate technical language into clear, practical guidance.
• Sound Counsil: If waiting is the most prudent course, we will say so clearly and candidly.

A Pause Doesn’t Mean You’re Stuck

The City of Edmonds has been clear: this moratorium is intended to provide clarity, not to halt progress altogether. The objective is clean water, well‑defined regulations, and fair outcomes for both homeowners and builders.

If you’ve been considering remodeling in Edmonds, a custom home building project, or planning for the future, this can still be a valuable time to consult with someone who understands the regulatory landscape.

At Chermak Construction, we’ve always believed that successful building begins with sound information. When the city pauses, we help homeowners plan thoughtfully and strategically.

If you’d like guidance on how the Deer Creek moratorium may affect your home or future plans, we are here to guide you through the process with clarity, professionalism, and your best interests at the forefront.