In Washington State, comprehensive planning is performed under the Growth Management Act (GMA).The GMA provides a framework for state, regional, county, and local planning coordination. It requires coordination and consistency between comprehensive plans for all jurisdictions in the same county and region.
Image Source: PSRC Vision 2050
Statewide Coordination
The Growth Management Act has 14 goals, which are the foundation of all comprehensive plans.
| 1. Encourage compact urban growth |
8. Maintain natural resource industries |
| 2. Reduce Sprawl |
9. Retain open space, enhance recreation |
| 3. Encourage coordinated, multimodal transportation |
10. Protect the environment |
| 4. Plan for and accommodate for affordable housing |
11. Encourage participation |
| 5. Encourage economic development |
12. Ensure availability of public facilities and services |
| 6. Protect property rights |
13. Encourage historic preservation |
| 7. Predictable permitting |
14. Manage shoreline development |
More information about the Growth Management Act and comprehensive planning can be found on MRSC's website.
Regional Coordination
In October 2020, the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC), a regional agency of cities and counties, approved VISION 2050. VISION 2050 is the updated regional plan that includes the multicounty planning policies (MPPs). VISION 2050 provides a framework for county planning efforts.
Countrywide Coordination
Snohomish County has been working in coordination with its cities and towns on updating the Countrywide Planning Policies (CPPs). The CPPs provide the framework for each jurisdiction's comprehensive plan updates for 2024.