The Shoreline Master Program (SMP) is the local instrument by which San Juan County and the State Department of Ecology (DOE) jointly administer the 1971 Shoreline Management Act (SMA), Chapter 90.58 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW).
Goal
The overarching goal of the SMA is "to prevent the inherent harm in an uncoordinated and piecemeal development of the state’s shorelines." To achieve this end, the legislation directs us to focus on three main areas:
- Encourage reasonable and orderly development of shorelines, with an emphasis on water-dependent and related uses that control pollution and prevent damage to the natural environment.
- Protect the natural character of Washington shorelines, including the land, vegetation, wildlife and shoreline environment.
- Promote public access and provide opportunities to enjoy views and recreational activities in shoreline areas.
