 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 13, 2025
PORT ORCHARD, Wash. – The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners directed the Department of Community Development (DCD) today to separate the Equestrian Facility Code component from the rest of the Year of the Rural project. This decision allows the County and community to focus on other Year of the Rural topics during the 2025 public process while providing additional time for engagement, discussion, research, and refinement of the proposed Equestrian Facility Code.
A reference to the future Equestrian Facility Code update will be added to the Rural and Resource Lands Chapter in 2025, recognizing the value of equestrian businesses to Kitsap County and the broader community, while also acknowledging the potential impacts of equestrian facilities on neighboring rural properties. Code work will continue, with potential adoption anticipated by mid-year 2026.
As part of this transition, the County will evaluate additional opportunities for neighbors and community members to share feedback regarding higher levels of equestrian activities.
About Kitsap County
Located in Washington, Kitsap County is home to over 270,000 residents across 566 square miles, making it the seventh- most populated county in the state. Bordered by the Hood Canal and Puget Sound, Kitsap offers residents, businesses, and visitors a stunning natural beauty and a unique blend of urban amenities and rural charm. The county includes the cities of Bremerton, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and Bainbridge Island, as well as many unincorporated communities.
Kitsap County is led by a three-member Board of Commissioners that is committed to providing high-quality services and amenities that enhance the quality of life for all residents while fostering economic growth, environmental conservation, and sustainable development.
For more information about Kitsap County services and initiatives, visit www.kitsap.gov or follow us on social media @KitsapWa.
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Links in this document
Kitsap County Board of Commissioners: https://www.kitsap.gov/BOC_p/Pages/default.aspx
Department of Community Development (DCD): https://www.kitsap.gov/dcd/Pages/default.aspx
Equestrian Facility Code: https://www.kitsap.gov/dcd/PEP%20Documents/YOTR%20Horse%20Facilities%20Draft%20Code%2009022025.pdf
Year of the Rural: https://kcowa.us/YOTR
Year of the Rural webpage: https://kcowa.us/YOTR
Kitsap County Rural and Resource Lands Chapter Update: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/0d3155f866a645f3b9252a1e03fd18ae
Kitsap County: www.kitsap.gov
@KitsapWA: www.facebook.com/KitsapWa
Website: www.kitsap.gov
Sign up for our updates: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/WAKITSAP/subscriber/new
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