Why do local governments have to update their shoreline master programs?
In 2003, the state Legislature set up a timetable for local governments to update local shoreline master programs. Most haven’t done so comprehensively since the mid 1970s. Since voters passed the Act in 1972, Washington’s statewide population nearly doubled from about 3.4 million to 6.5 million people. The old shoreline master programs need review, updated to address current conditions, consider new science, and better align with other related laws. An effective shoreline master program update will reduce unsustainable development and provide shoreline land owners with a clearer set of standards.
