Shoreline Management Website Disclaimer

This website is intended to further understanding of the laws, regulations, procedures and policies for administering the Shoreline Management Act in Washington State. It is not a substitute for the laws or official rules that are the subject of discussion.

Guidance on developing local Shoreline Master Programs is advisory only. The guidance is intended to illustrate and explain the Shoreline Master Program Guidelines rule (WAC 173-26-171 et. seq.) It is not intended to alter or amend that rule. In the event of a conflict between this guidance and the terms of the guidelines rule, the rule controls. Similarly, this guidance is not intended to alter or amend the requirements of the Shoreline Management Act (RCW 90.58). Throughout, this guidance should be read in light of the policies and provisions of the SMA and the governing principles set forth in the guidelines rule.

The examples given herein are illustrative only. Ecology hopes they will aid local governments in understanding the requirements of the guidelines as they might apply to specific real world situations. However, these examples are not exhaustive, may omit certain information, may not accurately reflect actual conditions in the places illustrated, or may otherwise be inaccurate.

The approaches taken and the suggestions contained on this web site are not mandatory. The Shoreline Master Program guidelines rule is intended to give local governments some flexibility in reaching compliance. Ecology understands that departure from the recommended approach herein may sometimes be appropriate, justified and acceptable. Ecology will continue to update the site as we continue to learn from cities and counties developing approaches appropriate for their circumstances.