MOSES LAKE - Limits on new shoreline development will be discussed during the Moses Lake Planning Commission's public hearing Thursday.

The public hearing begins at 7 p.m. in the city council chambers at the Civic Center, located at 401 S. Balsam St.

The Shoreline Master Program, which was last updated in 1988, provides local rules for shoreline use.

Under the current draft, residential uses will still be allowed, as well as commercial uses that benefit from a shoreline location, such as a hotel or restaurant. Existing structures and uses can continue as they are and only additions or new uses would need to comply with the updated program.

Major changes include shoreline buffers, where all new development will be required to maintain a buffer of at least 25 feet from the shoreline, including a few areas with large buffer zones, according to the Planning Commission. The state will also require the city to limit the impact of docks and shared docks are encouraged.

State requirements are that there be no net loss of shoreline ecological function.

The latest draft does include improvements in water quality from the work of the Moses Lake Irrigation and Rehabilitation District.

The Planning Commission is required to hold a public hearing before making a recommendation to the city council. The council will then review the recommended draft, along with the state standards that must be met. Another public hearing will be held at a future date before the council votes to approve the Shoreline Master Program. The plan is then sent to the Department of Ecology for approval and does not take effect until approved.