SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6528

                    As of January 22, 1996

Title:  An act relating to clarifying the agricultural exemption to the shoreline permit requirement.

Brief Description:  Exempting construction and other practices for agricultural activities from the definition of substantial development under the shoreline management act.

Sponsors:  Senator Morton.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Ecology & Parks:  1/25/96.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECOLOGY & PARKS

Staff:  Kari Guy (786-7437)

Background:  The Shoreline Management Act (SMA) establishes a cooperative program of shoreline management between local governments and the state.  Under the SMA, counties and cities are required to develop comprehensive shoreline use plans and development regulations.  A  shoreline substantial development permit is required for any construction with a fair market cost of over $2,500, with some exemptions.

One exemption from substantial development permit requirements is for construction and practices normal or necessary for farming, irrigation, and ranching activities.  It has been suggested that this exemption does not adequately cover all types of agriculture.

Summary of Bill:  The substantial development definition in the SMA is amended to clarify that construction and practices normal or necessary for agriculture, as well as farming, irrigation, and ranching activities, are exempt from permit requirements.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.