What is a development agreement?

A development agreement is a legal agreement between a developer and a local government, such as a city, county, or state. It is used to guide the planning, approval, and construction of new development projects, such as a new business, housing complex, or road. Within Washington state, development agreements are generally governed by land use law. The agreement is typically made between the developer, the local government, and any other community stakeholders, such as neighboring property owners or nearby businesses. The agreement will provide details about the overall purpose and goals of the project, including any environmental and safety concerns that need to be addressed. It will also outline the roles and responsibilities of each party in the development process, such as who will be responsible for gaining approval or obtaining permits. Development agreements also help to ensure that the new development meets all applicable laws and regulations, including local zoning, building codes, and other land use requirements. The agreement will, in turn, provide protection from any potential legal actions that could arise from noncompliance. In Washington, development agreements are governed by the Growth Management Act, which requires all counties to create a comprehensive plan for their local growth and development. The plan must consider land use, transportation, natural resources, housing, and economic development, among other factors. The plan will then be used to guide the development agreement and ensure that all parties are in agreement on the desired outcome of the project.

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What is a development agreement?

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