Growth Management Act Periodic Update 

Every county and city in the state is required to conduct a periodic update of its comprehensive plan and development regulations, though the obligation varies depending on whether the jurisdiction is fully or partially planning (RCW 36.70A.130(1)).  This webpage provides resources for completing the periodic update: the “Keeping Your Comprehensive Plan and Development Regulations Current” guidebook and its appendices.  Appendix D includes checklists that local governments can use to ensure their comprehensive plans and developments address the minimum requirements of the Growth Management Act (GMA).

The guidebook explains when and how to go through the necessary steps in the periodic update process. The level of effort and timing of the update steps will vary depending on how recently your community has comprehensively updated its plan, the size of your community, and other factors. 

Guidebook: Keeping your Comprehensive Plan and Development Regulations Current: A Guide to the Periodic Update Process under the Growth Management Act.

APPENDICES

Appendix A - Maps
GMS Planner Assignment Map
GMA Update Schedule Map

Appendix B
Sample Update Work Program
Sample Update Work Program (msword version)

Appendix C - Resolutions and Ordinances
Public Participation
Scope of Periodic Update Work Program
Final "legislative action" adoption completing update
Set schedule for completion
Example Finding of Fact for GMA Periodic Update

Appendix D - Checklists
Periodic Update Checklist for Cities (msword version)
Periodic Update Checklist for Counties (msword version)
Expanded Checklist for Comprehensive Plans (coming soon)
Expanded Checklist for Development Regulations (coming soon)

Appendix E - Changes to GMA
Amendments to GMA from 1995-2011 showing Cities and Counties affected

Appendix F - Critical Areas
Critical Areas Checklist Questions Explained
Critical Areas Review for Best Available Science (BAS)
State Agency Resources for Local Governments Updating Critical Areas Ordinances

Appendix G - Resource Lands
Resources for Designating and Conserving Agriculture, Forest, and Mineral Resource Lands

Appendix H - Good Examples
Benton County Checklist             
Benton County Comp Plan Checklist
Benton County Development Regulations Checklist
Benton County Scope of Work Matrix
City of Sultan Comp Plan Checklist 
Clallam County 2004 Update Public Participation Plan
City of Tacoma 2004 Update Public Participation Plan and Association Documents

Appendix I - Other Planning Guidance and Resources
Department of Commerce - Growth Management Services Publications List by Topics
WSDOT Minimum Requirements and Resources
Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington planning website