HomeMy WebLinkAboutPN_Urban Design District D Report
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PLANNING DIVISION DESIGN DISTRICT “D” CHECKLIST
City of Renton Planning Division
1055 South Grady Way, Renton, WA 98057
Phone: 425 -430 -7200 Fax: 425 -430 -7231
PURPOSE OF CHECKLIST:
Ensure compliance with design review regulations located in the Renton Municipal Code in
order to:
a. Maintain and protect property values;
b. Enhance the general appearance of the City;
c. Encourage creativity in building and site design;
d. Achieve predictability, balanced with flexibility; and
e. Consider the individual merits of proposals.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR APPLICANTS:
This design district checklist asks you to describe some basic information about your proposal.
The City will use this checklist to determine whether the your proposal complies with the Urban
Design Regulations in the Renton Municipal Code (RMC 4-3-100). Answer the questions briefly,
with the most precise information known, or give the best description you can.
There are two categories that have been established: (a) “minimum standards” that must be
met, and (b) “guidelines” that, while not mandatory, are considered by the Planning Director in
determining if the proposed action meets the intent of the design guidelines.
If you really do not know the answer, or if a question does not apply to your proposal, write "do
not know" or "does not apply". Complete answers to the questions now may avoid unnecessary
delays later.
A. SITE DESIGN AND BUILDING LOCATION:
Intent: To ensure that buildings are located in relation to streets and other buildings so that the
Vision of the City of Renton can be realized for a high-density urban environment; so that
businesses enjoy visibility from public rights-of-way; and to encourage pedestrian activity
throughout the district.
1. Building Location and Orientation:
Intent: To ensure visibility of businesses and to establish active, lively uses along sidewalks and
pedestrian pathways. To organize buildings for pedestrian use and so that natural light is
available to other structures and open space. To ensure an appropriate transition between
buildings, parking areas, and other land uses; and increase privacy for residential uses.
Guideline Standard: Developments shall enhance the mutual relationship of buildings
with each other, as well as with the roads, open space, and pedestrian amenities while
Page 2 of 25
working to create a pedestrian oriented environment. Lots shall be configured to
encourage variety and so that natural light is available to buildings and open space. The
privacy of individuals in residential uses shall be provided for.
This project is to replace existing 12’x8’ outdoor walk-in freezer with a 23’x19’ outdoor
walk-in freezer. Existing building shall comply with guideline standards.
Minimum Standard: The availability of natural light (both direct and reflected) and direct
sun exposure to nearby buildings and open space (except parking areas) shall be
considered when siting structures.
New replaced walk-in freezer shall not affect natural light and/or sun exposure to nearby
building and open spaces.
Minimum Standard: Buildings shall be oriented to the street with clear connections to the
sidewalk.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: The front entry of a building shall be oriented to the street or a
landscaped pedestrian-only courtyard.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement. Existing building
complies.
Minimum Standard: Buildings with residential uses located at the street level shall be:
a. Set back from the sidewalk a minimum of ten feet (10') and feature substantial
landscaping between the sidewalk and the building; or
b. Have the ground floor residential uses raised above street level for residents’
privacy.
Does not apply. Project is non-residential.
Page 3 of 25
2. Building Entries:
Intent: To make building entrances convenient to locate and easy to access, and ensure that
building entries further the pedestrian nature of the fronting sidewalk and the urban character
of the district.
Guideline Standard: Primary entries shall face the street, serve as a focal point, and allow
space for social interaction. All entries shall include features that make them easily
identifiable while reflecting the architectural character of the building. The primary entry
shall be the most visually prominent entry. Pedestrian access to the building from the
sidewalk, parking lots, and/or other areas shall be provided and shall enhance the overall
quality of the pedestrian experience on the site.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement. Existing building
complies.
Minimum Standard: The primary entrance of each building shall be:
a. Located on the facade facing a street, shall be prominent, visible from the street,
connected by a walkway to the public sidewalk, and include human-scale elements;
and
b. Made visibly prominent by incorporating architectural features such as a facade
overhang, trellis, large entry doors, and/or ornamental lighting
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement. Existing building
complies.
Minimum Standard: Building entries from a street shall be clearly marked with canopies,
architectural elements, ornamental lighting, or landscaping and include weather
protection at least four and one-half feet (4-1/2') wide. Buildings that are taller than thirty
feet (30') in height shall also ensure that the weather protection is proportional to the
distance above ground level.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Building entries from a parking lot shall be subordinate to those
related to the street.
Page 4 of 25
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Features such as entries, lobbies, and display windows shall be
oriented to a street or pedestrian-oriented space; otherwise, screening or decorative
features should be incorporated.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Multiple buildings on the same site shall direct views to building
entries by providing a continuous network of pedestrian paths and open spaces that
incorporate landscaping.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Ground floor residential units that are directly accessible from the
street shall include:
a. Entries from front yards to provide transition space from the street; or
b. Entries from an open space such as a courtyard or garden that is accessible from the
street.
Does not apply. Project is non-residential.
3. Transition to Surrounding Development:
Intent: To shape redevelopment projects so that the character and value of Renton’s long-
established, existing neighborhoods are preserved.
Guideline Standard: Careful siting and design treatment shall be used to achieve a
compatible transition where new buildings differ from surrounding development in terms
of building height, bulk and scale.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Page 5 of 25
Minimum Standard: At least one of the following design elements shall be used to
promote a transition to surrounding uses:
a. Building proportions, including step-backs on upper levels in accordance with the
surrounding planned and existing land use forms; or
b. Building articulation to divide a larger architectural element into smaller
increments; or
c. Roof lines, roof pitches, and roof shapes designed to reduce apparent bulk and
transition with existing development.
Additionally, the Administrator may require increased setbacks at the side or rear of a
building in order to reduce the bulk and scale of larger buildings and/or so that sunlight
reaches adjacent and/or abutting yards.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement. Existing building
complies with minimum standards.
4. Service Element Location and Design:
Intent: To reduce the potential negative impacts of service elements (i.e., waste receptacles,
loading docks) by locating service and loading areas away from high-volume pedestrian areas,
and screening them from view in high visibility areas.
Guideline Standard: Service elements shall be concentrated and located so that impacts
to pedestrians and other abutting uses are minimized. The impacts of service elements
shall be mitigated with landscaping and an enclosure with fencing that is made of quality
materials. Service areas not adjacent to streets, pathways, or pedestrian-oriented spaces
are encouraged to implement vegetative screening in addition to or as part of service
enclosures.
Walk-in freezer replacement is located away from high-volume pedestrian areas and is not
located in a high visibility area.
Minimum Standard: Service elements shall be located and designed to minimize the
impacts on the pedestrian environment and adjacent uses. Service elements shall be
concentrated and located where they are accessible to service vehicles and convenient for
tenant use (see illustration, RMC 4-3-100E7e).
Page 6 of 25
Replacement walk-in freezer is located in the same spot the existing walk-in freezer is. This
location is convenient for restaurant tenant use and does not require vehicle access.
Minimum Standard: In addition to standard enclosure requirements, garbage, recycling
collection, and utility areas shall be enclosed on all sides, include a roof and be screened
around their perimeter by a wall or fence and have self-closing doors.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Service enclosures shall be made of masonry, ornamental metal or
wood, or some combination of the three (3).
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement
Minimum Standard: If the service area is adjacent to a street, pathway, or pedestrian-
oriented space, a landscaped planting strip, minimum 3 feet wide, shall be located on 3
sides of such facility.
Does not apply. This outdoor walk-in freezer replacement is not adjacent to a street,
pathway or pedestrian-oriented space.
5. Gateways:
Intent: To distinguish gateways as primary entrances to districts or to the City; provide special
design features and architectural elements at gateways; and ensure that gateways, while they
are distinctive within the context of the district, are compatible with the district in form and
scale.
Guideline Standard: Development that occurs at gateways shall be distinguished with
features that visually indicate to both pedestrians and vehicular traffic the uniqueness and
prominence of their locations in the City. Examples of these types of features include
monuments, public art, and public plazas.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Developments located at district gateways shall be marked with
visually prominent features (see illustration, subsection RMC 4-3-100.E1).
Page 7 of 25
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Gateway elements shall be oriented toward and scaled for both
pedestrians and vehicles (see illustration, subsection RMC 4-3-100.E1).
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Visual prominence shall be distinguished by two or more of the
following:
a. Public art;
b. Special landscape treatment;
c. Open space/plaza;
d. Landmark building form;
e. Special paving, unique pedestrian scale lighting, or bollards;
f. Prominent architectural features (trellis, arbor, pergola, or gazebo);
g. Neighborhood or district entry identification (commercial signs do not qualify).
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
B. PARKING AND VEHICULAR ACCESS:
Intent: To provide safe, convenient access; incorporate various modes of transportation,
including public transit, in order to reduce traffic volumes and other impacts from vehicles;
ensure sufficient parking is provided, while encouraging creativity in reducing the impacts of
parking areas; allow an active pedestrian environment by maintaining contiguous street
frontages, without parking lot siting along sidewalks and building facades; minimize the visual
impact of parking lots; and use access streets and parking to maintain an urban edge to the
district.
1. Surface Parking:
Intent: To maintain active pedestrian environments along streets by placing parking lots
primarily in back of buildings.
Guideline Standard: Surface parking shall be located and designed so as to reduce the
visual impact of the parking area and associated vehicles. Large areas of surface parking
shall also be designed to accommodate future infill development.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Page 8 of 25
Minimum Standard: Parking shall be located so that no surface parking is located
between:
a. A building and the front property line; and/or
b. A building and the side property line (when on a corner lot).
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Parking shall be located so that it is screened from surrounding
streets by buildings, landscaping, and/or gateway features as dictated by location.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
2. Structured Parking Garages:
Intent: To promote more efficient use of land needed for vehicle parking; encourage the use of
structured parking; physically and visually integrate parking garages with other uses; and reduce
the overall impact of parking garages.
Guideline Standard: Parking garages shall not dominate the streetscape; they shall be
designed to be complementary with adjacent and abutting buildings. They shall be sited to
complement, not subordinate, pedestrian entries. Similar forms, materials, and/or details
to the primary building(s) should be used to enhance garages.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Parking structures shall provide space for ground floor commercial
uses along street frontages at a minimum of seventy five percent (75%) of the building
frontage width
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: The entire public facing facade shall be pedestrian-oriented. The
Administrator may approve parking structures that do not feature a pedestrian
orientation in limited circumstances. If allowed, the structure shall be set back at least six
feet (6') from the sidewalk and feature substantial landscaping. This landscaping shall
include a combination of evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs, and ground cover. This
setback shall be increased to ten feet (10') when abutting a primary arterial and/or minor
arterial.
Page 9 of 25
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Public facing facades shall be articulated by arches, lintels, masonry
trim, or other architectural elements and/or materials (see illustration, subsection RMC 4-
3-100.E2).
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: The entry to the parking garage shall be located away from the
primary street, to either the side or rear of the building.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Parking garages at grade shall include screening or be enclosed from
view with treatment such as walls, decorative grilles, trellis with landscaping, or a
combination of treatments.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: The Administrator may allow a reduced setback where the applicant
can successfully demonstrate that the landscaped area and/or other design treatment
meets the intent of these standards and guidelines. Possible treatments to reduce the
setback include landscaping components plus one or more of the following integrated
with the architectural design of the building:
a. Ornamental grillwork (other than vertical bars);
b. Decorative artwork;
c. Display windows;
d. Brick, tile, or stone;
Page 10 of 25
e. Pre-cast decorative panels;
f. Vine-covered trellis;
g. Raised landscaping beds with decorative materials; or
h. Other treatments that meet the intent of this standard.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
3. Vehicular Access:
Intent: To maintain a contiguous, uninterrupted sidewalk by minimizing, consolidating and/or
eliminating vehicular access off streets.
Guideline Standard: Vehicular access to parking garages and parking lots shall not impede
or interrupt pedestrian mobility. The impacts of curb cuts to pedestrian access on
sidewalks shall be minimized.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Access to parking lots and garages shall be from alleys, when
available. If not available, access shall occur at side streets.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: The number of driveways and curb cuts shall be minimized for
vehicular access purposes, so that pedestrian circulation along the sidewalk is minimally
impeded.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
3. PEDESTRIAN ENVIRONMENT:
Intent: To enhance the urban character of development by creating pedestrian networks and by
providing strong links from streets and drives to building entrances; make the pedestrian
environment safe, convenient, comfortable, and pleasant to walk between businesses, on
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sidewalks, to and from access points, and through parking lots; and promote the use of multi-
modal and public transportation systems in order to reduce other vehicular traffic.
1. Pedestrian Circulation:
Intent: To create a network of linkages for pedestrians, that is safe and convenient, enhances
the pedestrian environment, and provides a way for pedestrians to walk from one location to
another without having to drive their vehicle.
Guideline Standard: The pedestrian environment shall be given priority and importance in
the design of projects. Sidewalks and/or pathways shall be provided and shall provide safe
access to buildings from parking areas. Providing pedestrian connections to abutting
properties is an important aspect of connectivity and encourages pedestrian activity and
shall be considered. Pathways shall be easily identifiable to pedestrians and drivers.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: A pedestrian circulation system of pathways that are clearly
delineated and connect buildings, open space, and parking areas with the sidewalk system
and abutting properties shall be provided.
a. Pathways shall be located so that there are clear sight lines, to increase safety.
b. Pathways shall be an all-weather or appropriate permeable walking surface
material, unless the applicant can demonstrate that the proposed surface is
appropriate for the anticipated number of users and complementary to the design of
the development.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Pathways within parking areas shall be provided and differentiated
by material or texture (i.e., raised walkway, stamped concrete, or pavers) from abutting
paving materials(see illustration, subsection 4-3-100E.3). Permeable materials are
encouraged. The pathways shall be perpendicular to the applicable building facade and no
greater than one hundred fifty feet (150') apart.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Sidewalks and pathways along the facades of buildings shall be of
sufficient width to accommodate anticipated numbers of users. Specifically:
Page 12 of 25
a. Sidewalks and pathways along the facades of mixed use and retail buildings one
hundred (100) or more feet in width (measured along the facade) shall provide
sidewalks at least twelve feet (12') in width. The pathway shall include an eight-foot
(8') minimum unobstructed walking surface.
b. Interior pathways shall be provided and shall vary in width to establish a hierarchy.
The widths shall be based on the intended number of users; to be no smaller than five
feet (5') and no greater than twelve feet (12').
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Mid-block connections between buildings shall be provided.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
2. Pedestrian Amenities:
Intent: To create attractive spaces that unify the building and street environments and are
inviting and comfortable for pedestrians; and provide publicly accessible areas that
function for a variety of year-round activities, under typical seasonal weather conditions.
Guideline Standard: The pedestrian environment shall be given priority and importance in
the design of projects. Amenities that encourage pedestrian use and enhance the
pedestrian experience shall be included
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Architectural elements that incorporate plants, particularly at
building entrances, in publicly accessible spaces and at facades along streets, shall be
provided.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Amenities such as outdoor group seating, benches, transit shelters,
fountains, and public art shall be provided.
Page 13 of 25
a. Site furniture shall be made of durable, vandal- and weather-resistant materials
that do not retain rainwater and can be reasonably maintained over an extended
period of time.
b. Site furniture and amenities shall not impede or block pedestrian access to public
spaces or building entrances.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Pedestrian overhead weather protection in the form of awnings,
marquees, canopies, or building overhangs shall be provided. These elements shall be a
minimum of four and one-half feet (4-1/2') wide along at least seventy five percent (75%)
of the length of the building facade facing the street, a maximum height of fifteen feet
(15') above the ground elevation, and no lower than eight feet (8') above ground level.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
C. RECREATION AREAS AND COMMON OPEN SPACE:
1. Recreation Areas and Common Open Space:
Intent: To ensure that areas for both passive and active recreation are available to residents,
workers, and visitors and that these areas are of sufficient size for the intended activity and in
convenient locations. To create usable and inviting open space that is accessible to the public;
and to promote pedestrian activity on streets particularly at street corners.
Guideline Standard: Developments located at street intersections should provide
pedestrian-oriented space at the street corner to emphasize pedestrian activity (see
illustration, subsection 4-3-100E.4). Recreation and common open space areas are integral
aspects of quality development that encourage pedestrians and users. These areas shall
be provided in an amount that is adequate to be functional and usable; they shall also be
landscaped and located so that they are appealing to users and pedestrians.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: All mixed use residential and attached housing developments of ten
(10) or more dwelling units shall provide common open space and/or recreation areas.
Page 14 of 25
a. At minimum, fifty (50) square feet per unit shall be provided.
b. The location, layout, and proposed type of common space or recreation area shall
be subject to approval by the Administrator.
c. Open space or recreation areas shall be located to provide sun and light exposure to
the area and located so that they are aggregated to provide usable area(s) for
residents.
d. For projects with more than one hundred (100) dwelling units, vegetated low
impact development facilities may be used in required or provided open space where
feasible and designed consistent with the Surface Water Design Manual. Such facilities
shall be counted towards no more than fifty percent (50%) of the required open
space.
e. At least one of the following shall be provided in each open space and/or recreation
area (the Administrator may require more than one of the following elements for
developments having more than one hundred (100) units):
i. Courtyards, plazas, pea-patches, or multi-purpose open spaces;
ii. Upper level common decks, patios, terraces, or roof gardens. Such spaces
above the street level must feature views or amenities that are unique to the
site and are provided as an asset to the development;
iii. Pedestrian corridors dedicated to passive recreation and separate from the
public street system;
iv. Recreation facilities including, but not limited to, tennis/sports courts,
swimming pools, exercise areas, game rooms, or other similar facilities; or
v. Children’s play spaces that are centrally located near a majority of dwelling
units and visible from surrounding units. They shall also be located away from
hazardous areas such as garbage dumpsters, drainage facilities, and parking
areas.
Page 15 of 25
f. The following shall not be counted toward the common open space or recreation
area requirement:
i. Required landscaping, driveways, parking, or other vehicular use areas.
ii. Required yard setback areas. Except for areas that are developed as private or
semi-private (from abutting or adjacent properties) courtyards, plazas or passive
use areas containing landscaping and fencing sufficient to create a fully usable
area accessible to all residents of the development (see illustration, subsection
4-3-100E.4).
iii. Private decks, balconies, and private ground floor open space.
iv. Other required landscaping and sensitive area buffers without common
access links, such as pedestrian trails.
Does not apply. Project is non-residential.
Minimum Standard: All buildings and developments with over thirty thousand (30,000)
square feet of nonresidential uses (excludes parking garage floorplate areas) shall provide
pedestrian-oriented space.
a. The pedestrian-oriented space shall be provided according to the following formula:
1% of the site area + 1% of the gross building area, at minimum.
b. The pedestrian-oriented space shall include all of the following:
i. Visual and pedestrian access (including barrier-free access) to the abutting
structures from the public right-of-way or a nonvehicular courtyard; and
ii. Paved walking surfaces of either concrete or approved unit paving; and
iii. On-site or building-mounted lighting providing at least four (4) foot-candles
(average) on the ground; and
Page 16 of 25
iv. At least three (3) lineal feet of seating area (bench, ledge, etc.) or one
individual seat per sixty (60) square feet of plaza area or open space.
c. The following areas shall not count as pedestrian-oriented space:
i. The minimum required walkway. However, where walkways are widened or
enhanced beyond minimum requirements, the area may count as pedestrian-
oriented space if the Administrator determines such space meets the definition
of pedestrian-oriented space.
ii. Areas that abut landscaped parking lots, chain link fences, blank walls, and/or
dumpsters or service areas.
d. Outdoor storage (shopping carts, potting soil bags, firewood, etc.) is prohibited
within pedestrian-oriented space.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement and is not over
30,000 square feet.
Minimum Standard: Open space substitution: see RMC 4-1-240.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Public plazas shall be provided at intersections identified in the
Commercial Arterial Zone Public Plaza Locations Map and as listed below.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: The plaza shall measure no less than one thousand (1,000) square
feet with a minimum dimension of twenty feet (20') on one side abutting the sidewalk.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Page 17 of 25
Minimum Standard: The public plaza must be landscaped consistent with RMC 4-4-070,
including at minimum street trees, decorative paving, pedestrian-scaled lighting, and
seating. Vegetated low impact development facilities may be used in the plaza where
feasible and designed consistent with the Surface Water Design Manual. Such facilities
shall count towards no more than fifty percent (50%) of the plaza requirement.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Public plazas are to be provided at the following intersections:
a. Benson Area: Benson Drive S./108th Avenue S.E. and S.E. 176th.
b. Bronson Area: Intersections with Bronson Way North at:
i. Factory Avenue N./Houser Way S.;
ii. Garden Avenue N.; and
iii. Park Avenue N. and N. First Street.
c. Cascade Area: Intersection of 116th Avenue S.E. and S.E. 168th Street.
d. Northeast Fourth Area: Intersections with N.E. Fourth at:
i. Duvall Avenue N.E.;
ii. Monroe Avenue N.E.; and
iii. Union Avenue N.E.
e. Grady Area: Intersections with Grady Way at:
i. Lind Avenue S.W.;
ii. Rainier Avenue S.;
iii. Shattuck Avenue S.; and
iv. Talbot Road S.
f. Puget Area: Intersection of S. Puget Drive and Benson Road S.
g. Rainier Avenue Area: Intersections with Rainier Avenue S. at:
i. Airport Way/Renton Avenue S.;
ii. S. Second Street;
iii. S. Third Street/S.W. Sunset Boulevard;
iv. S. Fourth Street; and
v. S. Seventh Street.
h. North Renton Area: Intersections with Park Avenue N. at:
i. N. Fourth Street; and
ii. N. Fifth Street.
i. Northeast Sunset Area: Intersections with N.E. Sunset Boulevard at:
i. Duvall Avenue N.E.; and
ii. Union Avenue N.E.
Page 18 of 25
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
D. Building Architectural Design
1. Building Character and Massing
Intent: To ensure that buildings are not bland and so that they appear to be at a human scale, as
well as to ensure that all sides of a building which can be seen by the public are visually
interesting.
Guideline Standard: Building facades shall be modulated and/or articulated to reduce the
apparent size of buildings, break up long blank walls, add visual interest, and enhance the
character of the neighborhood. Articulation, modulation, and their intervals should create
a sense of scale important to residential buildings.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: All building facades shall include modulation or articulation at
intervals of no more than forty feet (40').
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Modulations shall be a minimum of two feet (2') deep, sixteen feet
(16') in height, and eight feet (8') in width.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Buildings greater than one hundred sixty feet (160') in length shall
provide a variety of modulations and articulations to reduce the apparent bulk and scale
of the facade (see illustration, subsection 4-3-100E.5 in District B); or provide an additional
special feature such as a clock tower, courtyard, fountain, or public gathering area.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement and existing
building is not greater than 160’.
2. Ground Level Details
Page 19 of 25
Intent: To ensure that buildings are visually interesting and reinforce the intended human-scale
character of the pedestrian environment; and ensure that all sides of a building within near or
distant public view have visual interest.
Guideline Standard: The use of material variations such as colors, brick, shingles, stucco,
and horizontal wood siding is encouraged. The primary building entrance should be
made visibly prominent by incorporating architectural features such as a facade
overhang, trellis, large entry doors, and/or ornamental lighting (see illustration,
subsection 4-3-100E.5). Detail features should also be used, to include things such as
decorative entry paving, street furniture (benches, etc.), and/or public art.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Human-scaled elements such as a lighting fixture, trellis, or other
landscape feature shall be provided along the facade’s ground floor.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Any facade visible to the public shall be comprised of at least fifty
percent (50%) transparent windows and/or doors for at least the portion of the ground
floor facade that is between four feet (4') and eight feet (8') above ground (as measured
on the true elevation).
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Upper portions of building facades shall have clear windows with
visibility into and out of the building. However, screening may be applied to provide
shade and energy efficiency. The minimum amount of light transmittance for windows
shall be fifty percent (50%).
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Display windows shall be designed for frequent change of
merchandise, rather than permanent displays.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Where windows or storefronts occur, they must principally contain
clear glazing.
Page 20 of 25
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: All of the following are prohibited:
a. Tinted and dark glass, highly reflective (mirror-type) glass and film.
b. Untreated blank walls visible from public streets, sidewalks, or interior pedestrian
pathways.
i. A wall (including building facades and retaining walls) is considered a blank
wall if:
(a) It is a ground floor wall or portion of a ground floor wall over six
feet (6') in height, has a horizontal length greater than fifteen feet
(15'), and does not include a window, door, building modulation or
other architectural detailing; or
(b) Any portion of a ground floor wall has a surface area of four
hundred (400) square feet or greater and does not include a
window, door, building modulation or other architectural detailing.
ii. If blank walls are required or unavoidable, they shall be treated. The
treatment shall be proportional to the wall and use one or more of the
following (see illustration, subsection 4-3-100E.5):
(a) A planting bed at least five feet (5') in width abutting the blank
wall that contains trees, shrubs, evergreen ground cover, or vines;
(b) Trellis or other vine supports with evergreen climbing vines;
(c) Architectural detailing such as reveals, contrasting materials, or
other special detailing that meets the intent of this standard;
(d) Artwork, such as bas-relief sculpture, mural, or similar; or
(e) Seating area with special paving and seasonal planting.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
3. Building Roof Lines:
Intent: To ensure that roof forms provide distinctive profiles and interest consistent with an
urban project and contribute to the visual continuity of the district.
Guideline Standard: Building roof lines shall be varied and include architectural elements
to add visual interest to the building.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Buildings shall use at least one of the following elements to create
varied and interesting roof profiles (see illustration, subsection RMC 4-3-100.E5):
(a) Extended parapets;
(b) Feature elements projecting above parapets;
(c) Projected cornices;
(d) Pitched or sloped roofs.
Page 21 of 25
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Roof mounted mechanical equipment shall not be visible to
pedestrians.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Buildings containing predominantly residential uses shall have
pitched roofs with a minimum slope of one to four (1:4) and shall have dormers or
interesting roof forms that break up the massiveness of an uninterrupted sloping roof.
Does not apply. Project is non-residential.
4. Building Materials:
Intent: To ensure high standards of quality and effective maintenance over time; encourage the
use of materials that reduce the visual bulk of large buildings; and encourage the use of
materials that add visual interest to the neighborhood.
Guideline Standard: Building materials are an important and integral part of the
architectural design of a building that is attractive and of high quality. Material variation
shall be used to create visual appeal and eliminate monotony of facades. This shall occur
on all facades in a consistent manner. High quality materials shall be used. If materials like
concrete or block walls are used they shall be enhanced to create variation and enhance
their visual appeal.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: All sides of buildings visible from a street, pathway, parking area, or
open space shall be finished with the same building materials, detailing, and color
scheme. A different treatment may be used if the materials are of the same quality.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement. Existing building
complies.
Minimum Standard: All buildings shall use material variations such as colors, brick or metal
banding, patterns or textural changes.
Page 22 of 25
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Materials, individually or in combination, shall have texture, pattern,
and be detailed on all visible facades.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Materials shall be durable, high quality, and consistent with more
traditional urban development, such as brick, integrally colored concrete masonry, pre-
finished metal, stone, steel, glass and cast-in-place concrete.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: If concrete is used, walls shall be enhanced by techniques such as
texturing, reveals, and/or coloring with a concrete coating or admixture.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: All buildings shall use material variations such as colors, brick or
metal banding, patterns, or textural changes.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
E. SIGNAGE:
Minimum Standard: Signage shall be an integral part of the design approach to the
building.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: In mixed use and multi-use buildings, signage shall be coordinated
with the overall building design.
Page 23 of 25
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Corporate logos and signs shall be sized appropriately for their
location.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Entry signs shall be limited to the name of the larger development.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Alteration of trademarks notwithstanding, corporate signage should
not be garish in color nor overly lit, although creative design, strong accent colors, and
interesting surface materials and lighting techniques are encouraged.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Front-lit, ground-mounted monument signs are the preferred type of
freestanding sign.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Blade type signs, proportional to the building facade on which they
are mounted, are encouraged on pedestrian-oriented streets.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Prohibited signs include (see illustration, subsection RMC 4-3-
100.J3a):
i. Pole signs;
ii. Roof signs;
iii. Back-lit signs with letters or graphics on a plastic sheet (can signs or illuminated
cabinet signs). Exceptions: Back-lit logo signs less than ten (10) square feet are
permitted as are signs with only the individual letters back-lit.
Page 24 of 25
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Freestanding ground-related monument signs, with the exception of
primary entry signs, shall be limited to five feet above finished grade, including support
structure. All such signs shall include decorative landscaping (ground cover and/or shrubs)
to provide seasonal interest in the area surrounding the sign. Alternately, signage may
incorporate stone, brick, or other decorative materials as approved by the Director.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
F. LIGHTING:
Intent: To ensure safety and security; provide adequate lighting levels in pedestrian areas such
as plazas, pedestrian walkways, parking areas, building entries, and other public places; and
increase the visual attractiveness of the area at all times of the day and night.
Guideline Standard: Lighting that improves pedestrian safety and also that creates visual
interest in the building and site during the evening hours shall be provided.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Pedestrian-scale lighting shall be provided at primary and secondary
building entrances. Examples include sconces on building facades, awnings with down-
lighting and decorative street lighting.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Accent lighting shall also be provided on building facades (such as
sconces) and/or to illuminate other key elements of the site such as gateways, specimen
trees, other significant landscaping, water features, and/or artwork.
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.
Minimum Standard: Downlighting shall be used in all cases to assure safe pedestrian and
vehicular movement, unless alternative pedestrian-scale lighting has been approved
Page 25 of 25
administratively or is specifically listed as exempt from provisions located in RMC 4-4-075,
Lighting, Exterior On-Site (i.e., signage, governmental flags, temporary holiday or
decorative lighting, right-of-way lighting, etc.).
Does not apply. This permit is for outdoor walk-in freezer replacement.