With the help of new imaging technology, a proposal in the Legislature intends to map the Puget Sound marine shoreline with an eye for unpermitted development.

Although the bill contains no intent section, it’s clear that SB 5885 aims to publicly identify unpermitted structures along the Sound every two years. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Jesse Salomon (D–Shoreline), also proposes to hold any replacement of a marine structure to the same standards as a new structure.

Based on state aerial mapping and local permit submittals, cities must identify unpermitted development on the shoreline. The bill does not require cities to enforce or define how to determine whether a structure is in sufficient disrepair to act. The first state mapping process will occur by January 2023 and every two years thereafter.

We support the intent to improve compliance and oversight of shoreline regulations. However, the bill establishes a daunting obligation to analyze a photo series across 2,400 miles of shoreline—covering 45,000 parcels—including the conditions of structures in disrepair and those that are derelict.

Dates to remember

SB 5885 is scheduled for a vote in the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee on Tuesday, January 25 at 10:30 am. If passed, it will then be heard in the Senate Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources & Parks Committee on Thursday, January 27 at 1:30 pm.