Source: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/sea/sepa/43_21C.htm
Timestamp: 2017-10-23 06:02:36
Document Index: 775408614

Matched Legal Cases: ['§ 1', '§ 2', '§ 3', '§ 203', '§ 1', '§ 422', '§ 1', '§ 1', '§ 2', '§ 1', '§ 1', '§ 21', '§ 6', '§ 2', '§ 1', '§ 1', '§ 1', '§ 12', '§ 12', '§ 1', '§ 2', '§ 25', '§ 1', '§ 4', '§ 5', '§ 3', '§ 2', '§ 6', '§ 1', '§ 49', '§ 204', '§ 4', '§ 4', '§ 205', '§ 1', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 1', '§ 4', '§ 14', '§ 3', '§ 5', '§ 47', '§ 206', '§ 7', '§ 6', '§ 8', '§ 8', '§ 10', '§ 1', '§ 1', '§ 12', '§ 13', '§ 619', '§ 6', '§ 4', '§ 5', '§ 4', '§ 6', '§ 19', '§ 29', '§ 29', '§ 202', '§ 202', '§ 201', '§ 203', '§ 201', '§ 1201', '§ 9', '§ 4', '§ 207', '§ 7', '§ 16', '§ 14', '§ 15', '§ 16', '§ 17']

Chapter 43-21 RCW STATE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
Ecology home > Shorelands > SEPA Home > SEPA Handbook > Chp 43-21 RCW
Chapter 43-21 RCW
43.21C.010 Purposes.
43.21C.020
Legislative recognitions -- Declaration -- Responsibility.
43.21C.030
Guidelines for state agencies, local governments -- Statements -- Reports -- Advice -- Information.
43.21C.031 Significant impacts.
43.21C.033 Threshold determination to be made within ninety days after application is complete.
43.21C.034 Use of existing documents.
43.21C.035 Certain irrigation projects decisions exempt from RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c).
43.21C.036 Hazardous substance remedial actions -- Procedural requirements and documents to be integrated.
43.21C.037 Application of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) to forest practices.
43.21C.038 Application of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) to school closures.
43.21C.0381 Application of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) to decisions pertaining to air operating permits.
43.21C.0382 Application of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) to watershed restoration projects -- Fish habitat enhancement projects.
43.21C.0383 Application of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) to waste discharge permits.
43.21C.0384 Application of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) to personal wireless services facilities.
43.21C.039 Metals mining and milling operations -- Environmental impact statements required.
43.21C.040 Examination of laws, regulations, policies by state agencies and local authorities -- Report of deficiencies and corrective measures.
43.21C.050 Specific statutory obligations not affected.
43.21C.060 Chapter supplementary -- Conditioning or denial of governmental action.
43.21C.065 Impact fees and fees for system improvements.
43.21C.075 Appeals.
43.21C.080 Notice of action by governmental agency -- How publicized -- Time limitation for commencing challenge to action.
43.21C.087 List of filings required by RCW 43.21C.080.
43.21C.090 Decision of governmental agency to be accorded substantial weight.
43.21C.095 State environmental policy act rules to be accorded substantial deference.
43.21C.110 Content of state environmental policy act rules.
43.21C.120 Rules, ordinances, resolutions and regulations -- Adoption -- Effective dates.
43.21C.130 Model ordinances.
43.21C.135 Authority of local governmental units to adopt rules, guidelines and model ordinances by reference.
43.21C.150 RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) inapplicable when statement previously prepared pursuant to national environmental policy act.
43.21C.160 Utilization of statement prepared under RCW 43.21C.030 to implement chapter 90.62 RCW -- Utilization of chapter 90.62 RCW procedures to satisfy RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c).
43.21C.165 Challenges to consistency of rules adopted pursuant to RCW 43.21C.110 and 43.21C.160 -- Procedure -- Finality.
43.21C.170 Council on environmental policy.
43.21C.175 Council on environmental policy -- Personnel.
43.21C.210 Certain actions during state of emergency exempt from chapter.
43.21C.220 Incorporation of city or town exempt from chapter.
43.21C.222 Annexation by city or town exempt from chapter.
43.21C.225 Consolidation and annexation of cities and towns exempt from chapter.
43.21C.230 Development and adoption of plan under chapter 43.180 RCW exempt from chapter.
43.21C.240 Project review under the growth management act.
43.21C.250 Forest practices board -- Emergency rules -- Exempt from chapter.
43.21C.260 Certain actions not subject to RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) -- Threshold determination on a watershed analysis.
43.21C.300 Workshops -- Handbook.
43.21C.400 Unfinished nuclear power projects -- Council action exempt from this chapter.
43.21C.900 Short title.
43.21C.910 Severability -- 1974 ex.s. c 179.
43.21C.911 Section headings not part of law -- 1983 c 117.
43.21C.912 Applicability -- 1983 c 117.
43.21C.913 Severability -- 1983 c 117.
43.21C.914 Effective dates -- 1983 c 117.
The purposes of this chapter are: (1) To declare a state policy which will encourage productive and enjoyable harmony between man and his environment; (2) to promote efforts which will prevent or eliminate damage to the environment and biosphere; (3) and stimulate the health and welfare of man; and (4) to enrich the understanding of the ecological systems and natural resources important to the state and nation.
[1971 ex.s. c 109 § 1.]
(1) The legislature, recognizing that man depends on his biological and physical surroundings for food, shelter, and other needs, and for cultural enrichment as well; and recognizing further the profound impact of man's activity on the interrelations of all components of the natural environment, particularly the profound influences of population growth, high-density urbanization, industrial expansion, resource utilization and exploitation, and new and expanding technological advances and recognizing further the critical importance of restoring and maintaining environmental quality to the overall welfare and development of man, declares that it is the continuing policy of the state of Washington, in cooperation with federal and local governments, and other concerned public and private organizations, to use all practicable means and measures, including financial and technical assistance, in a manner calculated to: (a) Foster and promote the general welfare; (b) to create and maintain conditions under which man and nature can exist in productive harmony; and (c) fulfill the social, economic, and other requirements of present and future generations of Washington citizens.
(2) In order to carry out the policy set forth in this chapter, it is the continuing responsibility of the state of Washington and all agencies of the state to use all practicable means, consistent with other essential considerations of state policy, to improve and coordinate plans, functions, programs, and resources to the end that the state and its citizens may:
(3) The legislature recognizes that each person has a fundamental and inalienable right to a healthful environment and that each person has a responsibility to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the environment.
[1971 ex.s. c 109 § 2.]
Guidelines for state agencies, local governments - Statements - Reports - Advice - Information.
(f) Recognize the world-wide and long-range character of environmental problems and, where consistent with state policy, lend appropriate support to initiatives, resolutions, and programs designed to maximize international cooperation in anticipating and preventing a decline in the quality of mankind's world environment;
[1971 ex.s. c 109 § 3.]
RCW 43.21C.031
Significant impacts.
(1) An environmental impact statement (the detailed statement required by RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c)) shall be prepared on proposals for legislation and other major actions having a probable significant, adverse environmental impact. The environmental impact statement may be combined with the recommendation or report on the proposal or issued as a separate document. The substantive decisions or recommendations shall be clearly identifiable in the combined document. Actions categorically exempt under RCW 43.21C.110(1)(a) do not require environmental review or the preparation of an environmental impact statement under this chapter. In a county, city, or town planning under RCW 36.70A.040, a planned action, as provided for in subsection (2) of this section, does not require a threshold determination or the preparation of an environmental impact statement under this chapter, but is subject to environmental review and mitigation as provided in this chapter.
An environmental impact statement is required to analyze only those probable adverse environmental impacts which are significant. Beneficial environmental impacts may be discussed. The responsible official shall consult with agencies and the public to identify such impacts and limit the scope of an environmental impact statement. The subjects listed in RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) need not be treated as separate sections of an environmental impact statement. Discussions of significant short-term and long-term environmental impacts, significant irrevocable commitments of natural resources, significant alternatives including mitigation measures, and significant environmental impacts which cannot be mitigated should be consolidated or included, as applicable, in those sections of an environmental impact statement where the responsible official decides they logically belong.
(2)(a) For purposes of this section, a planned action means one or more types of project action that:
(i) Are designated planned actions by an ordinance or resolution adopted by a county, city, or town planning under RCW 36.70A.040;
(ii) Have had the significant impacts adequately addressed in an environmental impact statement prepared in conjunction with (A) a comprehensive plan or subarea plan adopted under chapter 36.70A RCW, or (B) a fully contained community, a master planned resort, a master planned development, or a phased project;
(iii) Are subsequent or implementing projects for the proposals listed in (a)(ii) of this subsection;
(iv) Are located within an urban growth area, as defined in RCW 36.70A.030;
(v) Are not essential public facilities, as defined in RCW 36.70A.200; and
(vi) Are consistent with a comprehensive plan adopted under chapter 36.70A RCW.
(b) A county, city, or town shall limit planned actions to certain types of development or to specific geographical areas that are less extensive than the jurisdictional boundaries of the county, city, or town and may limit a planned action to a time period identified in the environmental impact statement or the ordinance or resolution adopted under this subsection.
[1995 c 347 § 203; 1983 c 117 § 1.]
Finding -- Severability -- Part headings and table of contents not law -- 1995 c 347: See notes following RCW 36.70A.470.
RCW 43.21C.033
Threshold determination to be made within ninety days after application is complete.
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the responsible official shall make a threshold determination on a completed application within ninety days after the application and supporting documentation are complete. The applicant may request an additional thirty days for the threshold determination. The governmental entity responsible for making the threshold determination shall by rule, resolution, or ordinance adopt standards, consistent with rules adopted by the department to implement this chapter, for determining when an application and supporting documentation are complete.
(2) This section shall not apply to a city, town, or county that:
(a) By ordinance adopted prior to April 1, 1992, has adopted procedures to integrate permit and land use decisions with the requirements of this chapter; or
(b) Is planning under RCW 36.70A.040 and is subject to the requirements of RCW 36.70B.090.
[1995 c 347 § 422; 1992 c 208 § 1.]
Effective date -- 1992 c 208 § 1: "Section 1 of this act shall take effect September 1, 1992." [1992 c 208 § 2.]
RCW 43.21C.034
Use of existing documents.
Lead agencies are authorized to use in whole or in part existing environmental documents for new project or nonproject actions, if the documents adequately address environmental considerations set forth in RCW 43.21C.030. The prior proposal or action and the new proposal or action need not be identical, but must have similar elements that provide a basis for comparing their environmental consequences such as timing, types of impacts, alternatives, or geography. The lead agency shall independently review the content of the existing documents and determine that the information and analysis to be used is relevant and adequate. If necessary, the lead agency may require additional documentation to ensure that all environmental impacts have been adequately addressed.
[1993 c 23 § 1.]
RCW 43.21C.035
Certain irrigation projects decisions exempt from RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c).
Decisions pertaining to applications for appropriation of fifty cubic feet of water per second or less for irrigation projects promulgated by any person, private firm, private corporation or private association without resort to subsidy by either state or federal government pursuant to RCW 90.03.250 through 90.03.340, as now or hereafter amended, to be used for agricultural irrigation shall not be subject to the requirements of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c), as now or hereafter amended.
[1974 ex.s. c 150 § 1.]
RCW 43.21C.036
Hazardous substance remedial actions -- Procedural requirements and documents to be integrated.
In conducting a remedial action at a facility pursuant to a consent decree, order, or agreed order issued pursuant to chapter 70.105D RCW, or if conducted by the department of ecology, the department of ecology to the maximum extent practicable shall integrate the procedural requirements and documents of this chapter with the procedures and documents under chapter 70.105D RCW. Such integration shall at a minimum include the public participation procedures of chapter 70.105D RCW and the public notice and review requirements of this chapter.
[1994 c 257 § 21.]
Severability -- 1994 c 257: See note following RCW 36.70A.270.
(2) When the applicable county, city, or town requires a license in connection with any proposal involving forest practices (a) on lands platted after January 1, 1960, as provided in chapter 58.17 RCW, (b) on lands that have or are being converted to another use, or (c) on lands which, pursuant to RCW 76.09.070 as now or hereafter amended, are not to be reforested because of the likelihood of future conversion to urban development, then the local government, rather than the department of natural resources, is responsible for any detailed statement required under RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c).
[1997 c 173 § 6; 1983 c 117 § 2; 1981 c 290 § 1.]
RCW 43.21C.038
Application of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) to school closures.
Nothing in RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) shall be construed to require the preparation of an environmental impact statement or the making of a threshold determination for any decision or any action commenced subsequent to September 1, 1982, pertaining to a plan, program, or decision for the closure of a school or schools or for the school closure portion of any broader policy, plan or program by a school district board of directors.
[1983 c 109 § 1.]
RCW 43.21C.0381
Application of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) to decisions pertaining to air operating permits.
Decisions pertaining to the issuance, renewal, reopening, or revision of an air operating permit under RCW 70.94.161 are not subject to the requirements of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c).
[1995 c 172 § 1.]
RCW 43.21C.0382
Application of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) to watershed restoration projects -- Fish habitat enhancement projects.
Decisions pertaining to watershed restoration projects as defined in RCW 89.08.460 are not subject to the requirements of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c). Decisions pertaining to fish habitat enhancement projects meeting the criteria of RCW 75.20.350(1) and being reviewed and approved according to the provisions of RCW 75.20.350 are not subject to the requirements of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c).
[1998 c 249 § 12; 1995 c 378 § 12.]
Findings -- Purpose -- Report -- Effective date -- 1998 c 249: See notes following RCW 75.20.350.
RCW 43.21C.0383
Application of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) to waste discharge permits.
The issuance, reissuance, or modification of a waste discharge permit that contains conditions no less stringent than federal effluent limitations and state rules is not subject to the requirements of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c). This exemption applies to existing discharges only and does not apply to new source discharges.
[1996 c 322 § 1.]
RCW 43.21C.0384
Application of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) to personal wireless services facilities.
(1) Decisions pertaining to applications to site personal wireless service facilities are not subject to the requirements of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c), if those facilities meet the following requirements:
(a)(i) The facility to be sited is a microcell and is to be attached to an existing structure that is not a residence or school and does not contain a residence or a school; or (ii) the facility includes personal wireless service antennas, other than a microcell, and is to be attached to an existing structure (that may be an existing tower) that is not a residence or school and does not contain a residence or a school, and the existing structure to which it is to be attached is located in a commercial, industrial, manufacturing, forest, or agricultural zone; or (iii) the siting project involves constructing a personal wireless service tower less than sixty feet in height that is located in a commercial, industrial, manufacturing, forest, or agricultural zone; and
(b) The project is not in a designated environmentally sensitive area; and
(c) The project does not consist of a series of actions: (i) Some of which are not categorically exempt; or (ii) that together may have a probable significant adverse environmental impact.
(2) The department of ecology shall adopt rules to create a categorical exemption for microcells and other personal wireless service facilities that meet the conditions set forth in subsection (1) of this section.
(a) "Personal wireless services" means commercial mobile services, unlicensed wireless services, and common carrier wireless exchange access services, as defined by federal laws and regulations.
(b) "Personal wireless service facilities" means facilities for the provision of personal wireless services.
(c) "Microcell" means a wireless communication facility consisting of an antenna that is either: (i) Four feet in height and with an area of not more than five hundred eighty square inches; or (ii) if a tubular antenna, no more than four inches in diameter and no more than six feet in length.
[1996 c 323 § 2.]
Findings -- 1996 c 323: See note following RCW 43.70.600.
RCW 43.21C.039
Metals mining and milling operations -- Environmental impact statements required.
Notwithstanding any provision in RCW 43.21C.030 and 43.21C.031 to the contrary, an environmental impact statement shall be prepared for any proposed metals mining and milling operation as required by RCW 78.56.050.
[1994 c 232 § 25.]
Severability -- 1994 c 232: See RCW 78.56.900.
Effective date -- 1994 c 232 §§ 1-5, 9-17, and 23-31: See RCW 78.56.901.
Disclosures required with SEPA checklist, metals mining and milling operations: RCW 78.56.040.
RCW 43.21C.040
Examination of laws, regulations, policies by state agencies and local authorities -- Report of deficiencies and corrective measures.
All branches of government of this state, including state agencies, municipal and public corporations, and counties shall review their present statutory authority, administrative regulations, and current policies and procedures for the purpose of determining whether there are any deficiencies or inconsistencies therein which prohibit full compliance with the purposes and provisions of this chapter and shall propose to the governor not later than January 1, 1972, such measures as may be necessary to bring their authority and policies in conformity with the intent, purposes, and procedures set forth in this chapter.
[1971 ex.s. c 109 § 4.]
RCW 43.21C.050
Specific statutory obligations not affected.
Nothing in RCW 43.21C.030 or 43.21C.040 shall in any way affect the specific statutory obligations of any agency (1) to comply with criteria or standards of environmental quality, (2) to coordinate or consult with any other public agency, or (3) to act, or refrain from acting contingent upon the recommendations or certification of any other public agency.
[1971 ex.s. c 109 § 5.]
RCW 43.21C.060
Chapter supplementary -- Conditioning or denial of governmental action.
The policies and goals set forth in this chapter are supplementary to those set forth in existing authorizations of all branches of government of this state, including state agencies, municipal and public corporations, and counties. Any governmental action may be conditioned or denied pursuant to this chapter: PROVIDED, That such conditions or denials shall be based upon policies identified by the appropriate governmental authority and incorporated into regulations, plans, or codes which are formally designated by the agency (or appropriate legislative body, in the case of local government) as possible bases for the exercise of authority pursuant to this chapter. Such designation shall occur at the time specified by RCW 43.21C.120. Such action may be conditioned only to mitigate specific adverse environmental impacts which are identified in the environmental documents prepared under this chapter. These conditions shall be stated in writing by the decisionmaker. Mitigation measures shall be reasonable and capable of being accomplished. In order to deny a proposal under this chapter, an agency must find that: (1) The proposal would result in significant adverse impacts identified in a final or supplemental environmental impact statement prepared under this chapter; and (2) reasonable mitigation measures are insufficient to mitigate the identified impact. Except for permits and variances issued pursuant to chapter 90.58 RCW, when such a governmental action, not requiring a legislative decision, is conditioned or denied by a nonelected official of a local governmental agency, the decision shall be appealable to the legislative authority of the acting local governmental agency unless that legislative authority formally eliminates such appeals. Such appeals shall be in accordance with procedures established for such appeals by the legislative authority of the acting local governmental agency.
[1983 c 117 § 3; 1977 ex.s. c 278 § 2; 1971 ex.s. c 109 § 6.]
RCW 43.21C.065
Impact fees and fees for system improvements.
A person required to pay an impact fee for system improvements pursuant to RCW 82.02.050 through 82.02.090 shall not be required to pay a fee pursuant to RCW 43.21C.060 for those same system improvements.
[1992 c 219 § 1.]
RCW 43.21C.075
(1) Because a major purpose of this chapter is to combine environmental considerations with public decisions, any appeal brought under this chapter shall be linked to a specific governmental action. The State Environmental Policy Act provides a basis for challenging whether governmental action is in compliance with the substantive and procedural provisions of this chapter. The State Environmental Policy Act is not intended to create a cause of action unrelated to a specific governmental action.
(2) Unless otherwise provided by this section:
(a) Appeals under this chapter shall be of the governmental action together with its accompanying environmental determinations.
(b) Appeals of environmental determinations made (or lacking) under this chapter shall be commenced within the time required to appeal the governmental action which is subject to environmental review.
(3) If an agency has a procedure for appeals of agency environmental determinations made under this chapter, such procedure:
(a) Shall allow no more than one agency appeal proceeding on each procedural determination (the adequacy of a determination of significance/nonsignificance or of a final environmental impact statement);
(b) Shall consolidate an appeal of procedural issues and of substantive determinations made under this chapter (such as a decision to require particular mitigation measures or to deny a proposal) with a hearing or appeal on the underlying governmental action by providing for a single simultaneous hearing before one hearing officer or body to consider the agency decision or recommendation on a proposal and any environmental determinations made under this chapter, with the exception of:
(i) An appeal of a determination of significance;
(ii) An appeal of a procedural determination made by an agency when the agency is a project proponent, or is funding a project, and chooses to conduct its review under this chapter, including any appeals of its procedural determinations, prior to submitting an application for a project permit;
(iii) An appeal of a procedural determination made by an agency on a nonproject action; or
(iv) An appeal to the local legislative authority under RCW 43.21C.060 or other applicable state statutes;
(c) Shall provide for the preparation of a record for use in any subsequent appeal proceedings, and shall provide for any subsequent appeal proceedings to be conducted on the record, consistent with other applicable law. An adequate record consists of findings and conclusions, testimony under oath, and taped or written transcript. An electronically recorded transcript will suffice for purposes of review under this subsection; and
(d) Shall provide that procedural determinations made by the responsible official shall be entitled to substantial weight.
(4) If a person aggrieved by an agency action has the right to judicial appeal and if an agency has an administrative appeal procedure, such person shall, prior to seeking any judicial review, use such agency procedure if any such procedure is available, unless expressly provided otherwise by state statute.
(5) Some statutes and ordinances contain time periods for challenging governmental actions which are subject to review under this chapter, such as various local land use approvals (the "underlying governmental action"). RCW 43.21C.080 establishes an optional "notice of action" procedure which, if used, imposes a time period for appealing decisions under this chapter. This subsection does not modify any such time periods. In this subsection, the term "appeal" refers to a judicial appeal only.
(a) If there is a time period for appealing the underlying governmental action, appeals under this chapter shall be commenced within such time period. The agency shall give official notice stating the date and place for commencing an appeal.
(b) If there is no time period for appealing the underlying governmental action, and a notice of action under RCW 43.21C.080 is used, appeals shall be commenced within the time period specified by RCW 43.21C.080.
(6)(a) Judicial review under subsection (5) of this section of an appeal decision made by an agency under subsection (3) of this section shall be on the record, consistent with other applicable law.
(b) A taped or written transcript may be used. If a taped transcript is to be reviewed, a record shall identify the location on the taped transcript of testimony and evidence to be reviewed. Parties are encouraged to designate only those portions of the testimony necessary to present the issues raised on review, but if a party alleges that a finding of fact is not supported by evidence, the party should include in the record all evidence relevant to the disputed finding. Any other party may designate additional portions of the taped transcript relating to issues raised on review. A party may provide a written transcript of portions of the testimony at the party's own expense or apply to that court for an order requiring the party seeking review to pay for additional portions of the written transcript.
(c) Judicial review under this chapter shall without exception be of the governmental action together with its accompanying environmental determinations.
(7) Jurisdiction over the review of determinations under this chapter in an appeal before an agency or superior court shall upon consent of the parties be transferred in whole or part to the shorelines hearings board. The shorelines hearings board shall hear the matter and sign the final order expeditiously. The superior court shall certify the final order of the shorelines hearings board and the certified final order may only be appealed to an appellate court. In the case of an appeal under this chapter regarding a project or other matter that is also the subject of an appeal to the shorelines hearings board under chapter 90.58 RCW, the shorelines hearings board shall have sole jurisdiction over both the appeal under this section and the appeal under chapter 90.58 RCW, shall consider them together, and shall issue a final order within one hundred eighty days as provided in RCW 90.58.180.
(8) For purposes of this section and RCW 43.21C.080, the words "action", "decision", and "determination" mean substantive agency action including any accompanying procedural determinations under this chapter (except where the word "action" means "appeal" in RCW 43.21C.080(2)). The word "action" in this section and RCW 43.21C.080 does not mean a procedural determination by itself made under this chapter. The word "determination" includes any environmental document required by this chapter and state or local implementing rules. The word "agency" refers to any state or local unit of government. Except as provided in subsection (5) of this section, the word "appeal" refers to administrative, legislative, or judicial appeals.
(9) The court in its discretion may award reasonable attorneys' fees of up to one thousand dollars in the aggregate to the prevailing party, including a governmental agency, on issues arising out of this chapter if the court makes specific findings that the legal position of a party is frivolous and without reasonable basis.
[1997 c 429 § 49; 1995 c 347 § 204; 1994 c 253 § 4; 1983 c 117 § 4.]
RCW 43.21C.080
Notice of action by governmental agency -- How publicized -- Time limitation for commencing challenge to action.
(1) Notice of any action taken by a governmental agency may be publicized by the acting governmental agency, the applicant for, or the proponent of such action, in substantially the form as set forth in rules adopted under RCW 43.21C.110:
(a) By publishing notice on the same day of each week for two consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper of general circulation in the area where the property which is the subject of the action is located;
(b) By filing notice of such action with the department of ecology at its main office in Olympia prior to the date of the last newspaper publication; and
(c) Except for those actions which are of a nonproject nature, by one of the following methods which shall be accomplished prior to the date of first newspaper publication;
(i) Mailing to the latest recorded real property owners, as shown by the records of the county treasurer, who share a common boundary line with the property upon which the project is proposed through United States mail, first class, postage prepaid.
(ii) Posting of the notice in a conspicuous manner on the property upon which the project is to be constructed.
(2)(a) Except as otherwise provided in RCW 43.21C.075(5)(a), any action to set aside, enjoin, review, or otherwise challenge any such governmental action or subsequent governmental action for which notice is given as provided in subsection (1) of this section on grounds of noncompliance with the provisions of this chapter shall be commenced within twenty-one days from the date of last newspaper publication of the notice pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, or be barred.
(b) Any subsequent governmental action on the proposal for which notice has been given as provided in subsection (1) of this section shall not be set aside, enjoined, reviewed, or otherwise challenged on grounds of noncompliance with the provisions of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(a) through (h) unless there has been a substantial change in the proposal between the time of the first governmental action and the subsequent governmental action that is likely to have adverse environmental impacts beyond the range of impacts previously analyzed, or unless the action now being considered was identified in an earlier detailed statement or declaration of nonsignificance as being one which would require further environmental evaluation.
[1995 c 347 § 205; 1977 ex.s. c 278 § 1; 1974 ex.s. c 179 § 2; 1973 1st ex.s. c 179 § 2.]
Purpose -- 1974 ex.s. c 179: "The purpose of this 1974 amendatory act is to establish methods and means of providing for full implementation of chapter 43.21C RCW (the state environmental policy act of 1971) in a manner which reduces duplicative and wasteful practices, establishes effective and uniform procedures, encourages public involvement, and promotes certainty with respect to the requirements of the act." [1974 ex.s. c 179 § 1.]
Effective date -- 1973 1st ex.s. c 179: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions and shall take effect on July 1, 1973: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That prior thereto, the department of ecology may take such actions, including the issuing of notices and the conduct of public hearing, as are necessary to insure the implementation of section 1 of this act." [1973 1st ex.s. c 179 § 4.]
RCW 43.21C.087
List of filings required by RCW 43.21C.080.
The department of ecology shall prepare a list of all filings required by RCW 43.21C.080 each week and shall make such list available to any interested party. The list of filings shall include a brief description of the governmental action and the project involved in such action, along with the location of where information on the project or action may be obtained. Failure of the department to include any project or action shall not affect the running of the statute of limitations provided in RCW 43.21C.080.
[1974 ex.s. c 179 § 14.]
Purpose -- 1974 ex.s. c 179: See note following RCW 43.21C.080.
RCW 43.21C.090
Decision of governmental agency to be accorded substantial weight.
In any action involving an attack on a determination by a governmental agency relative to the requirement or the absence of the requirement, or the adequacy of a "detailed statement", the decision of the governmental agency shall be accorded substantial weight.
[1973 1st ex.s. c 179 § 3.]
Effective date -- 1973 1st ex.s. c 179: See note following RCW 43.21C.080.
RCW 43.21C.095
State environmental policy act rules to be accorded substantial deference.
The rules promulgated under RCW 43.21C.110 shall be accorded substantial deference in the interpretation of this chapter.
[1983 c 117 § 5.]
RCW 43.21C.110
Content of state environmental policy act rules.
(1) To adopt and amend thereafter rules of interpretation and implementation of this chapter, subject to the requirements of chapter 34.05 RCW, for the purpose of providing uniform rules and guidelines to all branches of government including state agencies, political subdivisions, public and municipal corporations, and counties. The proposed rules shall be subject to full public hearings requirements associated with rule promulgation. Suggestions for modifications of the proposed rules shall be considered on their merits, and the department shall have the authority and responsibility for full and appropriate independent promulgation and adoption of rules, assuring consistency with this chapter as amended and with the preservation of protections afforded by this chapter. The rule-making powers authorized in this section shall include, but shall not be limited to, the following phases of interpretation and implementation of this chapter:
(d) Scope of coverage and contents of detailed statements assuring that such statements are simple, uniform, and as short as practicable; statements are required to analyze only reasonable alternatives and probable adverse environmental impacts which are significant, and may analyze beneficial impacts.
(m) Rules and procedures that provide for the integration of environmental review with project review as provided in RCW 43.21C.240. The rules and procedures shall be jointly developed with the department of community, trade, and economic development and shall be applicable to the preparation of environmental documents for actions in counties, cities, and towns planning under RCW 36.70A.040. The rules and procedures shall also include procedures and criteria to analyze planned actions under RCW 43.21C.031(2) and revisions to the rules adopted under this section to ensure that they are compatible with the requirements and authorizations of chapter 347, Laws of 1995, as amended by chapter 429, Laws of 1997. Ordinances or procedures adopted by a county, city, or town to implement the provisions of chapter 347, Laws of 1995 prior to the effective date of rules adopted under this subsection (1)(m) shall continue to be effective until the adoption of any new or revised ordinances or procedures that may be required. If any revisions are required as a result of rules adopted under this subsection (1)(m), those revisions shall be made within the time limits specified in RCW 43.21C.120.
[1997 c 429 § 47; 1995 c 347 § 206; 1983 c 117 § 7; 1974 ex.s. c 179 § 6.]
Rules, ordinances, resolutions and regulations -- Adoption -- Effective dates.
(2) Rules adopted by state agencies under subsection (1) of this section shall be adopted in accordance with the provisions of chapter 34.05 RCW and shall be subject to the review procedures of RCW *34.05.538 and 34.05.240.
[1983 c 117 § 8; 1974 ex.s. c 179 § 8.]
RCW 43.21C.130
Model ordinances.
The department of ecology, in consultation with concerned state agencies, shall with the assistance of the associations of county prosecutors and city attorneys, the association of county elected officials, the Washington state association of counties, and the association of cities, draft model ordinances for use by counties, cities and towns in drafting their ordinances under this chapter.
[1974 ex.s. c 179 § 10.]
RCW 43.21C.135
Authority of local governmental units to adopt rules, guidelines and model ordinances by reference.
(1) All public and municipal corporations, political subdivisions, and counties of the state are authorized to adopt rules, ordinances, and resolutions which incorporate any of the following by reference to the appropriate sections of the Washington Administrative Code:
(a) Rules and guidelines adopted under RCW 43.21C.110(1) in accordance with the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW;
(b) Model ordinances adopted by the department of ecology under RCW 43.21C.130 in accordance with the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW.
(2) If any rule, ordinance, or resolution is adopted by reference pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, any publication of such rule, ordinance, or resolution shall be accompanied by a summary of the contents of the sections of the Washington Administrative Code referred to. Such summaries shall be provided to the adopting units of local government by the department of ecology: PROVIDED, That any proposal for a rule, ordinance or resolution which would adopt by reference rules and guidelines or model ordinances pursuant to this section shall be accompanied by the full text of the material to be adopted which need not be published but shall be maintained on file for public use and examination.
(3) Whenever any rule, ordinance, or resolution is adopted by reference pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the corporation, political subdivision, or county of the state adopting the rule, ordinance, or resolution shall maintain on file for public use and examination not less than three copies of the sections of the Washington Administrative Code referred to.
[1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 99 § 1.]
RCW 43.21C.150
RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) inapplicable when statement previously prepared pursuant to national environmental policy act.
The requirements of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) pertaining to the preparation of a detailed statement by branches of government shall not apply when an adequate detailed statement has been previously prepared pursuant to the national environmental policy act of 1969, in which event said prepared statement may be utilized in lieu of a separately prepared statement under RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c).
[1975 1st ex.s. c 206 § 1; 1974 ex.s. c 179 § 12.]
RCW 43.21C.160
Utilization of statement prepared under RCW 43.21C.030 to implement *chapter 90.62 RCW -- Utilization of *chapter 90.62 RCW procedures to satisfy RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c).
In the implementation of *chapter 90.62 RCW (the Environmental Coordination Procedures Act of 1973), the department of ecology, consistent with guidelines adopted by the council shall adopt rules which insure that one detailed statement prepared under RCW 43.21C.030 may be utilized by all branches of government participating in the processing of a master application. Whenever the procedures established pursuant to *chapter 90.62 RCW are used, those procedures shall be utilized wherever possible to satisfy the procedural requirements of RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c). The time limits for challenges provided for in RCW 43.21C.080(2) shall be applicable when such procedures are so utilized.
[1974 ex.s. c 179 § 13.]
*Reviser's note: Chapter 90.62 RCW was repealed by 1995 c 347 § 619.
RCW 43.21C.165
Challenges to consistency of rules adopted pursuant to RCW 43.21C.110 and 43.21C.160 -- Procedure -- Finality.
See RCW 43.21B.250.
RCW 43.21C.170
Council on environmental policy.
The legislature may establish a council on environmental policy to review and assist in the implementation of this chapter.
[1983 c 117 § 6; 1974 ex.s. c 179 § 4. Formerly RCW 43.21C.100.]
RCW 43.21C.175
Council on environmental policy -- Personnel.
The council may employ such personnel as are necessary for the performances of its duties.
[1974 ex.s. c 179 § 5. Formerly RCW 43.21C.105.]
RCW 43.21C.210
Certain actions during state of emergency exempt from chapter.
This chapter does not apply to actions authorized by RCW 43.37.215 and 43.37.220 which are undertaken during a state of emergency declared by the governor under RCW 43.06.210.
[1981 c 278 § 4.]
RCW 43.21C.220
Incorporation of city or town exempt from chapter.
The incorporation of a city or town is exempted from compliance with this chapter.
[1982 c 220 § 6.]
Severability -- 1982 c 220: See note following RCW 36.93.100.
Incorporation proceedings exempt from chapter: RCW 36.93.170.
RCW 43.21C.222
Annexation by city or town exempt from chapter.
Annexation of territory by a city or town is exempted from compliance with this chapter.
[1994 c 216 § 19.]
Effective date -- 1994 c 216: See note following RCW 35.02.015.
RCW 43.21C.225
Consolidation and annexation of cities and towns exempt from chapter.
Consolidations of cities or towns, and the annexations of all of a city or town by another city or town, are exempted from compliance with this chapter.
[1985 c 281 § 29.]
Severability -- 1985 c 281: See RCW 35.10.905.
RCW 43.21C.230
Development and adoption of plan under chapter 43.180 RCW exempt from chapter.
This chapter does not apply to the development or adoption of the plan required to be developed and adopted under chapter 43.180 RCW.
[1983 c 161 § 29.]
Severability -- Effective dates -- 1983 c 161: See RCW 43.180.903 and 43.180.904.
(1) If the requirements of subsection (2) of this section are satisfied, a county, city, or town reviewing a project action may determine that the requirements for environmental analysis, protection, and mitigation measures in the county, city, or town's development regulations and comprehensive plans adopted under chapter 36.70A RCW, and in other applicable local, state, or federal laws and rules provide adequate analysis of and mitigation for the specific adverse environmental impacts of the project action to which the requirements apply.
(2) A county, city, or town may make the determination provided for in subsection (1) of this section if:
[1995 c 347 § 202.]
Findings -- Intent -- 1995 c 347 § 202: "(1) The legislature finds in adopting RCW 43.21C.240 that:
(2) The legislature intends that a primary role of environmental review under chapter 43.21C RCW is to focus on the gaps and overlaps that may exist in applicable laws and requirements related to a proposed action. The review of project actions conducted by counties, cities, and towns planning under RCW 36.70A.470 should integrate environmental review with project review. Chapter 43.21C RCW should not be used as a substitute for other land use planning and environmental requirements." [1995 c 347 § 201.]
RCW 43.21C.250
Forest practices board -- Emergency rules -- Exempt from chapter.
The duration and process for adopting emergency rules by the forest practices board pertaining to forest practices and the protection of aquatic resources as provided in RCW 76.09.055 are exempt from the procedural requirements of this chapter.
[1999 1st sp.s. c 4 § 203.]
Effective date -- 1999 1st sp.s. c 4 §§ 201, 202, and 203: See note following RCW 76.09.055.
Part headings not law -- 1999 1st sp.s. c 4: See note following RCW 75.46.300.
RCW 43.21C.260
Certain actions not subject to RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) -- Threshold determination on a watershed analysis.
(1) Decisions pertaining to the following kinds of actions under chapter 4, Laws of 1999 1st sp. sess. are not subject to any procedural requirements implementing RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c): (a) Approval of forest road maintenance and abandonment plans under chapter 76.09 RCW and RCW 75.20.100; (b) approval by the department of natural resources of future timber harvest schedules involving east-side clear cuts under rules implementing chapter 76.09 RCW; (c) acquisitions of forest lands in stream channel migration zones under RCW 76.09.040; and (d) acquisitions of conservation easements pertaining to forest lands in riparian zones under RCW 76.13.120.
(2) For purposes of the department's threshold determination on a watershed analysis, the department shall not make a determination of significance unless the prescriptions themselves, compared to rules or prescriptions in place prior to the analysis, will cause probable significant adverse impact on elements of the environment other than those addressed in the watershed analysis process. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to effect the outcome of pending litigation regarding the department's authority in making a threshold determination on a watershed analysis.
[1999 1st sp.s. c 4 § 1201.]
RCW 43.21C.300
Workshops -- Handbook.
The department of ecology shall conduct annual state-wide workshops and publish an annual state environmental policy act handbook or supplement to assist persons in complying with the provisions of this chapter and the implementing rules. The workshops and handbook shall include, but not be limited to, measures to assist in preparation, processing, and review of environmental documents, relevant court decisions affecting this chapter or rules adopted under this chapter, legislative changes to this chapter, administrative changes to the rules, and any other information which will assist in orderly implementation of this chapter and rules.
The department shall develop the handbook and conduct the workshops in cooperation with, but not limited to, state agencies, the association of Washington cities, the Washington association of counties, educational institutions, and other groups or associations interested in the state environmental policy act.
[1983 c 117 § 9.]
RCW 43.21C.400
Unfinished nuclear power projects -- Council action exempt from this chapter.
Council actions pursuant to the transfer of the site or portions of the site under RCW 80.50.300 are exempt from the provisions of this chapter.
[1996 c 4 § 4.]
Severability -- Effective date -- 1996 c 4: See RCW 80.50.903 and 80.50.904.
Energy facility site evaluation council: RCW 80.50.030.
RCW 43.21C.900
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "State Environmental Policy Act" or "SEPA".
[1995 c 347 § 207; 1971 ex.s. c 109 § 7.]
RCW 43.21C.910
Severability -- 1974 ex.s. c 179.
If any provision of this 1974 amendatory act, or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act, or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected.
[1974 ex.s. c 179 § 16.]
RCW 43.21C.911
Section headings not part of law -- 1983 c 117.
[1983 c 117 § 14.]
RCW 43.21C.912
Applicability -- 1983 c 117.
*Sections 3 and 4 of this act apply to agency decisions and to appeal proceedings prospectively only and not retrospectively. **Sections 1, 5, 6, 7, and 8 of this act may be applied by agencies retrospectively.
[1983 c 117 § 15.]
Reviser's note: *(1) "Sections 3 and 4 of this act" consist of the 1983 c 117 amendment to RCW 43.21C.060 and the enactment of RCW 43.21C.075, respectively.
**(2) "Sections 1, 5, 6, 7, and 8 of this act" consist of the enactment of RCW 43.21C.031 and 43.21C.095 and the 1983 c 117 amendments to RCW 43.21C.100, 43.21C.110, and 43.21C.120, respectively.
RCW 43.21C.913
Severability -- 1983 c 117.
[1983 c 117 § 16.]
RCW 43.21C.914
Effective dates -- 1983 c 117.
*(1) Sections 1, 2, and 4 through 16 of this act are necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect immediately.
**(2) Section 3 of this act shall take effect one hundred eighty days after the remainder of this act goes into effect under subsection (1) of this section.
[1983 c 117 § 17.]
Reviser's note: *(1) "Sections 1, 2, and 4 through 16 of this act" consist of the enactment of RCW 43.21C.031, 43.21C.075, 43.21C.095, 43.21C.300, 43.21C.911, 43.21C.912, and 43.21C.913; the 1983 c 117 amendments to RCW 43.21C.037, 43.21C.100, 43.21C.110, and 43.21C.120; the repeal of RCW 43.21C.032, 43.21C.085, and 43.21C.140; the decodification of RCW 43.21C.070, 43.21C.200, 43.21C.202, and 43.21C.204; and the recodification of RCW 43.21C.100 and 43.21C.105 as RCW 43.21C.170 and 43.21C.175, respectively. The effective date of these sections is April 23, 1983.
**(2) "Section 3 of this act" consists of the 1983 c 117 amendment to RCW 43.21C.060. The effective date of this section is October 20, 1983.