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What is the Shoreline Master Program?

The Shoreline Master Program(SMP) is a comprehensive shoreline land-use plan that includes policies and regulations for the use and development of the shoreline. The SMP protects shoreline processes, promotes public access, and accommodates all appropriate shoreline uses, as well as balances public and private interests. Kitsap County wants local citizens to be part of the SMP update and to help implement a sustainable shoreline management program.

Kitsap County has about 230 miles of saltwater and freshwater shoreline. Kitsap County's current SMP was adopted 38 years ago and last updated ten years ago. The Washington Shoreline Management Act (SMA) [RCW90.58] directs local governments to update their SMPs in accordance with state rules and guidelines [WAC 173-26]. Kitsap County and all Kitsap cities are required to complete SMP updates by 2012. The Washington Dept of Ecology (DOE) has final approval authority over local SMP updates.

Until about 40 years ago, development in Washington’s shoreline areas tended to be piecemeal and uncoordinated. To improve and protect state shoreline areas, the Washington Legislature passed the state Shoreline Management Act in 1971. The public adopted the Act in a 1972 referendum vote.

To regulate shoreline development, the state law established a cooperative relationship between local governments and the Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology). The Shoreline Management Act applies to rivers, lakes greater than 20 acres, and marine waterfronts as well as associated shorelands, wetlands, and floodplains. The law has three main purposes:

Encourage reasonable and orderly development of shorelines, with an emphasis on water-dependent and related uses that control pollution and prevent damage to the natural environment.

Protect the natural character of Washington shorelines, the land, vegetation, wildlife, and shoreline environment.

Promote public access and provide opportunities to enjoy views and recreational activities in shoreline areas.

“Shoreline master programs” are the cornerstone for carrying out the Shoreline Management Act. Under state law, Washington’s 266 towns, cities and counties that have shoreline areas covered under the Act must develop these individual, locally-tailored programs to guide construction and development in regulated shoreline areas.

Helpful Links:

Washington Administrative Code (WAC)

Helpful WAC Excerpts

Ecology SMP Guidance Documents

SMP Grant from Dept. of Ecology (Ecology)

Codes and References for Kitsap County's SMP Update

Shoreline Master Program Update

Kitsap County