Q:

How do Shoreline Master Programs apply to federal consistency decisions for federal actions in state waters?

A:

The Shoreline Management Act contains enforceable policies that have been incorporated into Washington’s CZMP. When a federal action occurs in state waters, the federal consistency review must evaluate how that action is consistent with the enforceable policies in the SMA and its regulations.

The state’s federal consistency review can be informed and guided by policies and standards within local
Shoreline Master Programs that the state has approved and adopted. The review can include consultation with the local government with jurisdiction where the federal action is occurring. While the state may consider local SMPs, any federal consistency objection by the state must be based on the enforceable policies in the
SMA and regulations.

For more information, read the Department of Ecology’s summary of the Coastal Zone Management Act.