Washington Statewide Rule
Washington Agricultural Lands of Long-Term Significance
Key Facts
- Signage
- GMA RCW 36.70A.170 requires farmland designation
- Detail
- Agricultural zoning protects long-term farms
- Detail
- Voluntary Stewardship Program available
- Detail
- Critical areas balanced with farming
- Detail
- Hearings boards review compliance
Summary
Washington's Growth Management Act under RCW 36.70A.170 requires counties and cities to designate and protect agricultural lands of long-term commercial significance through zoning.
(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, agricultural activities conducted on farmland and forest practices, if consistent with good agricultural and forest practices and established prior to surrounding nonagricultural and nonforestry activities, are presumed to be reasonable and shall not be found to constitute a nuisance unless the activity or practice has a substantial adverse effect on public health and safety.
Full Breakdown
Under Washington's Growth Management Act (GMA), RCW 36.70A.170 directs counties and cities to designate agricultural lands of long-term commercial significance and adopt regulations conserving them. RCW 36.70A.060 requires development regulations protecting these designated lands from incompatible uses. Counties typically establish agricultural zoning districts with minimum parcel sizes, restrictions on residential subdivision, and right-to-farm disclosures for new neighbors. Conservation programs including the Voluntary Stewardship Program (RCW 36.70A.700) help balance agricultural viability with critical area protection. Programs like Purchase of Development Rights and Transfer of Development Rights help preserve farmland. Right to Farm protections under RCW 7.48.305 complement zoning to defend established operations.
Violations & Penalties
Inconsistent local zoning may be challenged before Growth Management Hearings Boards under RCW 36.70A.280. Successful petitioners can void noncompliant ordinances and trigger compliance orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Washington zone for agriculture?
What is the Voluntary Stewardship Program?
Sources
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