(1) Within the framework established by the act, counties and cities may accommodate a wide diversity of local visions. There is no exclusive method for accomplishing the requirements of the act.

(2) In light of the complexity and difficulty of the task, the legislature required the department to establish a technical assistance program. As part of that program, the department must adopt by rule procedural criteria to assist counties and cities in adopting comprehensive plans and development regulations that meet the goals and requirements of the act.

(3) Definitions and interpretations made in this chapter by the department, but not expressly set forth in the act, are identified as such. The department's purpose is to provide assistance in interpreting the act, not to add provisions and meanings beyond those intended by the legislature. For definitions of specific terms used in this chapter see WAC 365-196-210.