SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6275

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As Passed Senate, February 16, 2010

Title: An act relating to harbor lines.

Brief Description: Regarding harbor lines.

Sponsors: Senator Jacobsen.

Committee Activity: Natural Resources, Ocean & Recreation: 1/11/10, 1/14/10 [DP].

Passed Senate: 2/16/10, 48-0.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, OCEAN & RECREATION

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Jacobsen, Chair; Ranker, Vice Chair; Morton, Ranking Minority Member; Fraser, Hargrove, Hatfield, Stevens and Swecker.

Staff: Curt Gavigan (786-7437)

Background: The Washington Constitution requires the Legislature to appoint a commission to establish harbor lines for the navigable waters in front of incorporated cities. The Legislature has directed the Board of Natural Resources to serve as the Harbor Line Commission.

A harbor area is the area between the outer and inner harbor line. A harbor area may exist in front of and up to one mile beyond any incorporated city limit. A harbor area is reserved for landings, wharves, and other conveniences of navigation and commerce.

The Harbor Line Commission may locate and establish harbor lines and determine harbor areas. However, once established, the Harbor Line Commission generally may only change, relocate, or reestablish the harbor lines for harbors that are expressly listed by the Legislature. According to the Department of Natural Resources, there are 28 harbor areas currently established in the state. The Legislature has granted the Harbor Line Commission express authority to amend the harbor lines for all harbor areas except Marysville, Steilacoom, and a portion of Lake Washington.

Summary of Bill: The Harbor Line Commission may change, relocate, or reestablish a harbor line in any harbor area.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 7, 2010.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The Harbor Line Commission can currently change harbor lines in all but a few harbor areas, most notably in areas of Lake Washington. Allowing the Harbor Line Commission to adjust harbor lines in all harbor areas will remove a barrier to address current non-conforming uses within harbor areas.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Bridget Moran, Department of Natural Resources.