Shoreline Master Program Update - What & Why

What's Happening Now?

Washington State Department of Ecology requires all Cities to have a Shoreline Master Program (SMP) regulating development in shoreline environments to protect ecosystems, encourage water-dependent uses, and provide public access to shorelines. Seattle’s shoreline code (23.60A) outlines our current regulations.

SDCI is conducting its periodic review of Seattle’s Shoreline Master Program. This State periodic review requirement stems from a long-standing rule that encourages local governments to review and revise their SMPs to reflect changing local circumstances, new information, or improved data. Our review will address changes to local and  state legislation, improved population and environmental data, and information from both residents and the City staff since Seattle’s last SMP update in 2015. The SMP periodic review process will include broad public outreach, including outreach to Tribes, federal, state, and local government agencies that have interests and/or responsibilities relating to the shorelines of the state, the maritime industry, environmental and recreational organizations, and shoreline residents, including floating residence communities.

The Shoreline Master Program is mandated by the state Shoreline Management Act (SMA), created by citizen referendum in 1972. The SMP includes the goals, policies, and regulations that govern land use and activities within the Seattle Shoreline District. Seattle’s Shoreline District includes:

• The Duwamish River
• The Ship Canal
• Lake Union
• Lake Washington
• Green Lake
• Puget Sound
• Associated wetlands and floodplains
• All land within 200 feet of these water-bodies

More Information

For more information about Shoreline Master Program periodic review, read the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Frequently Asked Questions: Periodic Review of Shoreline Master Programs.

If you have questions about Seattle's Shoreline Master Program, please contact:

Maggie Glowacki
(206) 386-4036
margaret.glowacki@seattle.gov

Project Benefits

Seattle’s SMP is based on three required policy goals: preferred shoreline uses, environmental protection, and public access. The SMP provides the following benefits for Seattle’s residents, visitors, and business owners:

1. Preserves the shoreline for uses that are water-oriented and appropriate for the environmental context. Examples include port facilities, shoreline recreational uses, and water-dependent businesses (such as marinas and vessel repairs).
2. Protects Seattle’s shoreline natural resources, including vegetation, wildlife, and aquatic life.
3. Protects public access to shorelines and ensures that new development maintains public access features.

The End Result

Our updated Shoreline Master Program will:

• Comply with Washington State Department of Ecology requirements
• Preserve appropriate use and enjoyment of our shorelines
• Protect our shoreline ecosystem