2012 SMP Update (Summer)
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The Shoreline Master Program (SMP) is a comprehensive shoreline land-use plan ratified by the state Shoreline Management Act in 1972. To regulate shoreline development, the state law requires local governments and the Department of Ecology to mutually regulate shoreline development, use, and protection.
The update of San Juan County’s Shoreline Master Program is required by June 30, 2013. The Shoreline Management Act applies to lakes greater than 20 acres, marine shorelines, land within 200 feet of the ordinary high water mark of such waterbodies, and their associated wetlands.
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, including the land, vegetation, wildlife, and shoreline environment.
Promote public access and provide opportunities to enjoy views and recreational activities in shoreline areas.
There are six phases in the SMP update process:
1. Preliminary Shoreline Jurisdiction identification and the adoption of a public participation plan.
2. Inventory and Characterization report.
3.Development of goals, policies and regulations.
4. An analysis of the expected outcomes of the proposed regulations, the identification of restoration opportunities and the redrafting of regulations if necessary.
5.Adoption by the local government which involves a series of public hearings with the Planning Commission and the County Council.
6. Adoption by the Department of Ecology. |
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Questions to consider for public input workshops/hearings:
How and where would you like to see shoreline commercial and residential development?
What views are important to you to protect? What areas are important for public access? What access, transportation, water quality, others)?
What are your perceptions of how the county’s shorelines are currently managed?
What do you like and/or dislike about the county’s ability to enforce regulations?
What, if any, changes have you noticed over the last 5-15 years (public access, habitat, use, enforcement. etc.)?
In shoreline areas do you have specific goals or ideas for commercial development, Residential development, habitat protection/restoration, public access?
For more information:
www.sanjuanco.com or
Colin Maycock, Senior Planner, SJC Dept. of Comm. Dev and Planning…
360-370-7573 or colinm@sanjuanco.com
Washington State Department of Ecology’s Citizens Guide to Shoreline Master Programs SMP overview, frequently asked questions, publications |
