HB 2305-S.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Declares that the guidelines adopted by the department and master programs developed or amended by local governments according to RCW 90.58.080 shall not require modification of or limit agricultural activities occurring on agricultural lands.

     Provides that, in jurisdictions where agricultural activities occur, master programs developed or amended after the effective date of this act shall include provisions addressing new agricultural activities on land not meeting the definition of  agricultural land, conversion of agricultural lands to other uses, and development not meeting the definition of agricultural activities.  Nothing in this provision limits or changes the terms of the current exception to the definition of substantial development in RCW 90.58.030 (3) (e) (iv).

     Declares that this provision applies only to this chapter, and shall not affect any other authority of local governments.

     Declares that the provisions of this act do not become effective until the earlier of either January 1, 2004, or the date the department of ecology amends or updates chapter 173-16 or 173-26 WAC.