Washington requires local governments to provide notice to military representatives for certain planning actions—which is based on best practices that center on communication for well-informed decisions about local land use. Coordination between communities and military representatives serves a crucial role in planning future development patterns that balance local interests with military mission requirements. The following resources promote civilian-military partnership and consultation to support uses of land, sea, and air which preserve security and safety for service members and civilians alike.
Washington’s Growth Management Act (GMA) requires communities near military installations to provide a 60-day notice and request for written comments from the base commander before amending or adopting comprehensive plans and development regulations.
The GMA states a priority to protect lands around military installations from development that would reduce the ability of personnel to fulfill mission requirements (RCW 36.70A.530). Development that is incompatible with this priority poses risks to operational efficiency as well as the safety of military personnel and the public.
- The 2019 Washington State Guidebook on Military and Community Compatibility (PDF) – A reference for compatibility planning practices for civilian and military members of the statewide community.
- The Defense Community Compatibility Account (DCCA) page details a grant program and legislative report that the Legislature initiated to support local compatibility projects, Substitute Senate Bill 5748 (PDF).
- The Compatible Energy Siting Assessment (CESA) – A project promoting consultation between energy project developers, proponents, reviewing/permitting entities, and the military throughout the development process.
- 2016 legislative report, Civilian-Military Land Use Study (PDF), prepared by TSG.
- Defense Industry Adjustment Program