County planning staff back text amendment to allow limited public boat ramps on natural shorelines

County planning staff presented a text amendment to Spokane County’s Shoreline Master Program that would permit—under limited and reviewed circumstances—public boat ramps on shorelines currently designated as 'natural.' Staff said the amendment originated after the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife approached the county about dissolving an existing site designation related to Chapman Lake and that the intent is to increase public access while protecting shoreline ecological functions.

Staff explained the amendment is a non‑project, text change that has been in the pipeline since 2020, underwent required notices and review, and drew a single comment from the Spokane Tribe of Indians. The planning commission recommended the proposed change; if the board adopts that recommendation the County will forward the amendment to the Washington State Department of Ecology for a final determination of consistency. Staff emphasized that site‑specific applicants still must complete environmental review, demonstrate no net loss of shoreline ecological function and meet engineering and permitting requirements.

Why it matters: The amendment could expand public access at select lakes and water bodies, but staff stressed it would not automatically allow boat‑ramp development at every natural shoreline and that applicants must meet environmental and engineering requirements.

What’s next: The planning commission’s recommendation will be included on the board’s legislative agenda; Ecology will make the final consistency determination after board action.