FINAL BILL REPORT

                                   ESB 6128

                                  C 105 L 92

                              SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

Brief Description:  Regarding erosion of shoreline uplands used for residential purposes.

SPONSORS: Senators Owen and Amondson

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

BACKGROUND:

The state Shorelines Management Act ensures that the valuable and fragile shorelines are wisely utilized, managed and protected.  Voters approved the unique and landmark local-state agency management partnership program in a statewide initiative in 1971.

Major responsibilities such as changes to the local shoreline master programs and issuance of substantial development permits (shoreline permits) are initiated by local governments and are subject to review by the state to ensure conformity.

Local governments can exercise some flexibility in the issuance of shoreline permits to protect residences and associated uplands due to differences in their affected local shorelines.

SUMMARY:

Uniformity is established in the procedures for the installation of bulkheads or other structures to protect residences and appurtenant structures against shoreline erosion.

The priority for single family residences to make alterations to the natural shorelines is extended to include their appurtenant structures.

Local master programs shall contain standards for the protection of single family residences and appurtenant structures from damage or loss due to shoreline erosion.

The standards shall include provisions for issuing permits to protect the shorelines by constructing bulkheads or by using nonstructural methods of protection.

Permit applications shall be expedited by the issuing authority to protect residences and appurtenant structures.  The timelines for limited utility extensions are applicable to bulkheads and other structures.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

Senate      41    5

House 95    0     (House amended)

Senate                  (Senate refused to concur)

House             (House refused to recede)

Conference Committee

House 97    0

Senate47    0

EFFECTIVE:  June 11, 1992