How does cultural heritage factor into land use planning?

Cultural heritage is an important factor to consider in land use planning in Washington. The state is home to many distinct cultural identities, each with its own unique relationship to the land. In order to ensure that these valuable cultural resources will be respected and preserved, land use law and planning must take into account the importance of cultural heritage to the local community. The Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP) is responsible for protecting and preserving the state’s cultural heritage resources, including archaeological sites, historic buildings, traditional landscapes, and burial sites. The DAHP works with local and tribal governments to review proposed development projects to ensure that potential impacts to cultural resources are properly identified and addressed. The DAHP also reviews and approves land use plans to ensure that the cultural heritage of the region is protected. In addition to this oversight, there are various efforts to protect Washington’s cultural heritage through the land use planning process. For example, the Washington State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is responsible for establishing and enforcing zoning regulations that protect historic landscapes and structures from inappropriate development. This ensures that these valuable cultural resources are not disturbed or destroyed. Lastly, local and tribal governments can play an important role in promoting cultural heritage through land use planning. Local governments, in particular, can work to protect cultural heritage resources by designating areas as special heritage districts or historic preservation areas. This helps to protect these areas from inappropriate development and allows them to serve as a reminder of the region’s rich cultural history.

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