The rules contained in this chapter are to carry out the policy and procedures of SEPA and the SEPA guidelines, and shall govern the application of SEPA requirements to the department. These rules are adopted pursuant to the requirement of and authority provided by chapter 43.21C RCW and chapter 197-10 WAC.

From the effective date of this chapter the department in undertaking nonexempt actions shall conform to those relevant and applicable policies and procedures declared mandatory by the provisions of SEPA or the SEPA guidelines. Such pertinent and mandatory policy and procedures are hereby incorporated by reference and adopted as the policy and procedures of the department.