Kitsap County is researching, gathering community input, and sharing information as we assess equine facility needs and impacts.





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Community Development headline

*January 29, 2026*

Kitsap County is beginning a Commercial Equine Facility Assessment to better understand the needs of the equestrian community, the experiences of neighbors, and the information the County has received about commercial equine activities in rural areas. 

This assessment focuses on listening, learning, and identifying where clearer guidance or updated approaches may be needed going forward. 

Why are we doing this work? 

In 2025, Kitsap County began exploring possible updates related to equestrian facilities as part of the broader Year of the Rural project [ [link removed] ]. After receiving strong community feedback and recognizing the importance of additional engagement and research, the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners directed the County to postpone this work and continue it separately into 2026. 

You can read more about that decision here: Board of County Commissioners Postpones Equestrian Facility Code to 2026 [ [link removed] ] 

This next phase is an opportunity to step back and ensure the County fully understands: 


* What the community is experiencing 

* What equine businesses need to thrive 

* What impacts neighbors are concerned about 

* What information and tools the County may be underutilizing or missing 

New Project Website + Staying Informed 

We have launched a project webpage [ [link removed] ] where community members can find current information, background materials, and opportunities for involvement. As part of this assessment, we will be asking equine facility owners, riders, neighbors, and other interested community members to complete a short survey. Your responses will help the County better understand what is working well, what challenges exist, and what support or clarity may be needed.  


* "Commercial Equestrian Facility Assessment" [ [link removed] ] 

We encourage you to sign up for email or text notifications through our GovDelivery topic to stay informed as the assessment continues. 


* "Subscribe to receive future notifications" [ [link removed] ] 

Community Workshop – February 25 

We also invite you to attend an in-person workshop: 

*Commercial Equine Facility Assessment Workshop* 

*Wednesday, February 25, 2026* 

Kitsap County Administration Building 

"5:00pm to 7:00pm in the Commissioner Chambers" 

This workshop will provide an opportunity to learn more about the assessment and share input on designated questions that will help inform the County’s evaluation. County staff will be available to answer clarifying questions related to the assessment.

Thank You for Participating 

Commercial equine facilities are an important part of Kitsap County’s rural character, economy, and community life. At the same time, we recognize that equine activities can raise questions around compatibility, impacts, and expectations in rural neighborhoods. 

This assessment is intended to ensure the County has the information it needs — and that community voices are heard — before any future steps are considered. 

We appreciate your involvement. 

For questions, please contact Heather Cleveland, Long Range Planner, at *[email protected]. <[email protected]>*

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Media Contact Information

Alicia Adler, Communications and Outreach Coordinator, Community Development
[email protected]

About Kitsap County

"Located in Washington, ""Kitsap County" [ [link removed] ]" 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." 

Connect with us

"Stay informed about the latest news from Kitsap County. Visit our website [ [link removed] ], follow us on social media, or sign up for our updates [ [link removed] ]."

Links in this document

"*Commercial Equestrian Facility Assessment Page* / [link removed]"

"*Sign-up to receive Commercial Equestrian Facility Assessment News* / [link removed]"

"*Kitsap County */ www.kitsap.gov [ [link removed] ]
"

"*Kitsap County Community Development* / www.kitsap.gov/dcd [ [link removed] ]"

"*@KitsapWA*: www.facebook.com/KitsapWa [ [link removed] ]"

 

"Sign up for other updates: ""[link removed]" [ [link removed] ]






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Questions? Contact Kitsap1 at 360.337.5777 or [email protected]







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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Kitsap County · 619 Division Street · Port Orchard, WA 98366 · 360-337-5777 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]