HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRE-APP_Meeting SummaryDEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Planning Division | 1055 South Grady Way, 6th Floor | Renton, WA 98057 | 425-430-7200
|www.rentonwa.gov
PREAPPLICATION MEETING FOR
Talbot Hills
54X S 55th St, Renton, WA 98055
PRE 24-000146
May 30, 2024
Contact Information:
Planner: Jill Ding, 425-430-6598, jding@rentonwa.gov
Public Works Plan Reviewer: Michael Sippo, 425-430-7298, msippo@rentonwa.gov
Fire Prevention Reviewer: Corey Thomas, 425.276.9582, cthomas@RentonRFA.org
Building Department Reviewer: Rob Shuey, 206.550.8523, rshuey@rentonwa.gov
Please retain this packet throughout the course of your project as a reference. Consider
giving copies to engineers, architects, and contractors who will work on the project. You will
need to submit an PDF copy of this packet when you apply for land use and/or
environmental permits.
When the project application is ready for submittal, you may email the project planner to
start the prescreen process. Similarly, you may contact the assigned planner if there are any
questions regarding submittal requirements.
The pre-application meeting is informal and non-binding. The comments provided on the
proposal are based on the codes and policies in effect at the time of review. The applicant is
cautioned that the development regulations are regularly amended and the proposal will be
formally reviewed under the regulations in effect at the time of project submittal. The
information contained in this summary is subject to modification and/or concurrence by
official decision-makers (e.g., Hearing Examiner, Planning Director, Development Services
Director, Development Engineering Director, Department of Community & Economic
Development Administrator, Public Works Administrator and City Council).
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE: May 14, 2024
TO: Jill Ding, Senior Planner
FROM: Corey Thomas, Lead Plans Review Inspector
SUBJECT: Westview/Talbot Hills Short Plat
1. The fire flow requirement for a single family home is 1,000 gpm minimum for dwellings
up to 3,600 square feet (including garage and basements). If the dwelling exceeds 3,600 square
feet, a minimum of 1,500 gpm fire flow would be required. A minimum of one fire hydrant is
required within 300-feet of the proposed buildings and two hydrants if the fire flow goes up to
1,500 gpm.
2. The fire impact fees are currently applicable at the rate of $421.98 per single family unit.
This fee is paid at building permit issuance.
3. Fire department apparatus access roadways are required to be a minimum of 20-feet
wide fully paved, with 25-feet inside and 45-feet outside turning radius. Fire access roadways
shall be constructed to support a 30-ton vehicle with 75-psi point loading. Access is required
within 150-feet of all points on the buildings. Dead end streets that exceed 150 -feet in length
require an approved turnaround.
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE: May 29, 2024
TO: Jill Ding, Senior Planner
FROM: Michael Sippo, Civil Engineer III
SUBJECT: Talbot Hills 4-Lot Short Plat Pre-App
640 S 55th St
PRE24-000146
NOTE: The applicant is cautioned that information contained in this summary is preliminary and non-
binding and may be subject to modification and/or concurrence by official City decision-makers. Review
comments may also need to be revised based on site planning and other design changes required by
City staff or made by the applicant.
I have completed a preliminary review for the above-referenced proposal located at parcel(s)
3213059119. The following comments are based on the pre-application submittal made to the City of
Renton by the applicant.
WATER COMMENTS
1. The project is within the City of Renton’s water service area in the Talbot Hill 350 hydraulic zone.
a. Per January 24, 2023 email from Abdoul Gafour (City’s Water Utility Engineering Manager)
to Lynn Ramsey (Development Coordinator with Soos Creek Water and Sewer District), the
City has no objection for Soos Creek Water and Sewer District ot provide water service for a
proposed 4-Lot Short Plat. The applicant will need to begin coordination for an interlocal
agreement or similar mechanism with the City’s water department and Soos Creek during
the land-use submittal process. If an agreement cannot be made or it is determined the City
shall provide service, the below requirements will need to be met.
2. The static water pressure is approximately 40 psi at ground elevation of 256 feet.
3. The site is located outside the City’s Wellhead Protection Area Zones.
4. There is an existing 8-inch City water main located in S 55th St (see water plan No. W-377601) that
ends approximately 300 feet west of the westerly property line of tax lot 3123059119. The 8-inch
water line can provide a maximum capacity of 1,250 gallons per minute (gpm).
5. Based on the review of project information submitted for the pre-application meeting, Renton
Regional Fire Authority has determined that the preliminary fire flow demand for the proposed
development is 1,000 gpm for homes under 3,600 SF and goes up to a minimum of 1,500 gpm for
homes over 3,600 SF.
Talbot Hills 4-Lot Short Plat – PRE24-000146
Page 2 of 6
May 29, 2024
6. Based on the information provided with the pre-application submittal documents, the following
developers installed water main improvements will be required to provide domestic and fire
protection service to the development including but not limited to the items that follow:
• Installation of approximately 420 feet of 8-inch diameter water main in S 55th St from the
existing water main to the new public road to the development.
• Installation of approximately 200 feet of 8-inch diameter water main within the plat
extending to the end of Tract C for future connection to the property to the north.
• Installation of fire hydrants. One hydrant is required within 150 feet and 300 feet of each
lot. The location and number of hydrants will be determined by the Fire Authority based
on the final fire flow demand and final site plan.
• A 15-foot wide public water easement is required for any public water main, hydrants and
water meters located outside City right-of-way.
• A separate water service (1-inch) and meter is required for each lot. The 1-inch “drop in”
meter will be installed by City forces and a water meter permit is required. The sizing of
the meter and of the private service line to the buildings shall be in accordance with the
most recent edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code. Meters shall be placed in landscape
strips, or behind the sidewalk, and within the right‐of‐way. Meters shall not be installed
within driveways.
• Water mains shall have a minimum 10 foot horizontal and 1.5 foot vertical clearance
between sanitary and storm utilities. Clearance is measured from outside edge to
outside edge of pipe.
• Installation of a landscape irrigation meter with a backflow prevention assembly (DCVA)
if applicable.
• Civil plans for the water main improvements will be required and must be prepared by a
Professional Engineer registered in the State of Washington. Please refer to City of Renton
General Design and Construction Standards for Water Main Extensions as shown in
Appendix K of the City’s 2021 Water System Plan. Adequate horizontal and vertical
separations between the new water main and other utilities (storm sewer pipes and
vaults, sanitary sewer, power, gas, electrical) shall be provided for the operation and
maintenance of the water main. Retaining walls, rockeries or similar structures cannot be
installed over the water main unless the water main is installed inside a steel casing.
7. A conceptual utility plan will be required as part of the land use application for the subject
development.
8. The development is subject to applicable water system development charges (SDC’s) and meter
installation fees based on the number and size of the meters for domestic uses and for fire
sprinkler use. The development is also subject to fees for water connections, cut and caps, and
purity tests. Current fees can be found in the 2024 Development Fees Document on the City’s
website. Fees will be charged based on the rate at the time of construction permit issuance.
• The SDC fee for water is based on the size of the new domestic water to serve the project.
The current water fee is $4,850.00 per 1-inch meter.
• Drop-in meter fee is $460.00 per 1-inch meter.
• A credit will be applied to the existing service if abandoned.
• The full fee schedule can be found at:
https://edocs.rentonwa.gov/Documents/DocView.aspx?id=9010319&dbid=0&repo=City
ofRenton&cr=1
Talbot Hills 4-Lot Short Plat – PRE24-000146
Page 3 of 6
May 29, 2024
• The South Talbot Hill-Valley General Hospital Special Assessment District (SAD) is
applicable on the project. The SAD fee is based on fire flow, for developments with less
than 1,500 gpm fire flow the fee is $0.034 per square foot.
SEWER COMMENTS
1. Wastewater service is provided by City of Renton.
2. There is an existing 12-inch wastewater main located on S 55th St to the south of the property
(Record Drawing: S-229703).
3. There are two existing PVC sewer stubs serving the property (Record Drawing: S-229703).
4. The existing lot is not currently connected to the sewer system.
5. The developer will need to extend the sewer to serve the new development with a gravity sanitary
sewer service to each of the lots. The connection shall be made to the City manhole (SSMH0323)
within S 55th St.
6. Individual sewer stubs from the sewer main and individual side sewers are required for each lot.
All new sewer stubs shall conform to the standards in RMC 4-6-040 and City of Renton Standard
Details.
a. The existing two side sewer stubs may be used. CCTV’ing stubs is required to ensure
they are adequate for use if they are used.
b. If the existing side sewer stubs are not used, they will be required to be abandoned to
the main in accordance with City standards.
c. Any portion of a side sewer passing through an adjacent parcel drive shall be in a private
easement.
7. RMC 4-6-10 requires utilities to be extended to the furthest extent of the parcel. A 15 ft wide
public sewer easement shall be provided to allow future connection to parcel 3123059125.
Based on preliminary layout an easement along the north property line would be needed
however final location to be determined with the final site plan.
8. A conceptual utility plan will be required as part of the land use application for the subject
development.
9. The development is subject to a wastewater system development charge (SDC) fee. SDC fee for
sewer is based on the size of the new domestic water to serve the project. Current fees can be
found in the 2024 Development Fees Document on the City’s website. Fees will be charged
based on the rate at the time of construction permit issuance.
• The current sewer fee for is $3,650.00 per 1-inch meter.
• Final determination of applicable fees will be made after the water meter size has been
determined.
• The developer will receive a credit for the existing homes if demoed.
• The full fee schedule can be found at:
https://edocs.rentonwa.gov/Documents/DocView.aspx?id=9010319&dbid=0&repo=City
ofRenton&cr=1
STORM DRAINAGE COMMENTS
1. The site is currently vacant and there is no on-site stormwater conveyance system. The site
generally slopes from east to west. City of Renton Mapping (COR Maps) identifies an existing
stormwater vault along the north side of S 55th Street with unknown conveyance piping
connecting to the vault. COR maps also indicates that an existing 12-inch concrete pipe outfalls
onto the site near the east property line where S 55th Street curves to the east. The nature of
Talbot Hills 4-Lot Short Plat – PRE24-000146
Page 4 of 6
May 29, 2024
these existing systems will need to be evaluated in accordance to the 2022 Renton Surface
Water Design Manual and accommodated accordingly in the final engineering design of the plat
infrastructure and frontage improvements.
2. Critical areas on site that affect stormwater include landslide hazard and regulated slopes.
3. Refer to Figure 1.1.2.A – Flow Chart to determine what type of drainage review is required for
this site. The site falls within the City’s Flow Control Duration Standard (Forested Conditions).
The site falls within the Black River drainage basin. Drainage plans and a drainage report
complying with the adopted 2022 Renton Surface Water Design Manual will be required.
4. Storm drainage improvements along all public street frontages are required to conform to the
City’s street and stormwater conveyance standards. Any new storm drain installed on or off-site
shall be designed and sized in accordance with standards found in Chapter 4 of the 2022
RSWDM and shall account for the total upstream tributary area, assuming developed conditions
for onsite tributary areas and existing conditions for any offsite (non-project) tributary areas.
5. If the new plus replaced pollution generating impervious surface exceeds 5,000 SF, the applicant
will be required to provide basic water quality treatment. Any proposed detention and/or water
quality vault shall be designed in accordance with the RSWDM that is current at the time of civil
construction permit application. Separate structural plans will be required to be submitted for
review and approval under a separate building permit for the detention and/or water quality
vault.
6. Appropriate on-site BMPs satisfying Core Requirement #9 will be required to help mitigate the
new runoff created by this development to the maximum extent feasible. On-site BMPs shall be
evaluated as described in Section C.1.2.9.1.D of the 2022 RSWDM. A preliminary drainage plan,
including the application of on-site BMPs, shall be included with the land use application, as
applicable to the project. The final drainage plan and drainage report must be submitted with
the utility construction permit application.
7. A geotechnical soils report for the site is required per the standards found in section C.1.3 of the
2022 RSWDM. Information on the water table and soil permeability with recommendations of
appropriate on site BMP’s per Core Requirement #9 and Appendix C shall be included in the
report. The geotech report should include information on the type of soil, presence of fill,
suitability of infiltration
8. The current Surface Water Standard Plans shall be used in all drainage plan submittals. The
current City of Renton Standard Details are available online in the City of Renton website
https://edocs.rentonwa.gov/Documents/Browse.aspx?id=990403&dbid=0&repo=CityofRenton
9. Erosion control measures to meet the City requirements shall be provided.
10. Construction Storm water General Permit from the Department of Ecology is required if clearing
and grading of the site exceeds one acre.
11. The development is subject to a surface water system development charge (SDC) fees. Fees will
be charged based on the rate at the time of construction permit issuance.
• The current SDC fee is $2,300 per single family residence.
• The current SDC fee is $0.92 per square foot of new impervious surface but not less than
$2,300.
• The developer will receive a credit for any existing home that is demoed.
• The full fee schedule can be found at:
https://edocs.rentonwa.gov/Documents/DocView.aspx?id=9010319&dbid=0&repo=City
ofRenton&cr=1
Talbot Hills 4-Lot Short Plat – PRE24-000146
Page 5 of 6
May 29, 2024
TRANSPORTATION/STREET COMMENTS
1. The proposed development fronts S 55th St along the southwest and southeast property lines and
is classified as a Residential Access Street. Existing right-of-way (ROW) width is 60 feet. To meet
the City’s complete street standards for Residential Access Streets, minimum ROW is 53 feet. No
dedication of ROW will be required. Per City code 4-6-060, half street improvements shall include
a pavement width of 26 feet (13 feet from centerline), a 0.5-foot curb, an 8-foot planting strip, a
5-foot sidewalk, street trees and storm drainage improvements. Street grades shall not exceed
15%. Frontage improvements will need to take into account the existing road alignment and may
result in realignment of the roadway in order to accommodate the improvements or right-of-way
dedication provided.
2. Refer to the shared driveway requirements as outlined in RMC 4-6-060J. Shared driveways are
only allowed for access up to 4 lots provided at least one of the four lots abuts a public right-of-
way with at least fifty linear feet of frontage and the subject lots are not created by a
subdivision of ten or more lots. Since the project is proposing only 4 lots, a 20’ wide minimum
shared driveway will be allowed to serve the 4 lots. Refer to the shared driveway requirements
as outlined in RMC 4-6-060J.
3. Current City of Renton standards require a turnaround for dead-end streets greater than 150
feet. Dead-end streets up to 300 feet may utilize a hammerhead turnaround provided it meets
the requirements for emergency services access, including a 25-ft inside and 45-ft outside
turning radius. Reference RMC 4-6-060H. The hammerhead turnaround shall have a design
approved by the Administrator and Fire and Emergency Services.
4. Undergrounding of all existing and proposed utilities is required on all frontages per RMC 4-6-
090.
5. Street lighting is required for a project that consists of more than 4 residential units. Under the
current proposal, street lighting is not required.
6. The short plat shall meet the requirements for safe route to schools identified in RCW 58.17.
7. Refer to City code 4-4-080 regarding driveway regulations.
a. A minimum separation of 5 feet is required between driveway and the property line.
b. Maximum driveway slopes shall not exceed 15%. Driveways exceeding 8% shall provide
slotted drains.
8. Paving and trench restoration within the City of Renton right of way shall comply with the City’s
Trench Restoration and Street Overlay Requirements.
9. The development is subject to transportation impact fees. Fees will be charged based on the rate
at the time of construction permit issuance.
a. The 2024 transportation impact fee is $11,485.67 per single family home.
GENERAL COMMENTS
1. If frontage improvements are required, all existing and proposed utility lines (i.e. electrical, phone,
and cable services, etc.) along property frontage or within the site must be underground as outlined
in RMC 4-6-090 – UTILITY LINES - UNDERGROUND INSTALLATION. The construction of these franchise
utilities must be inspected and approved by a City of Renton inspector.
2. Adequate separation between utilities as well as other features shall be provided in accordance with
code requirements.
a. 7-ft minimum horizontal and 1-ft vertical separation between storm and other utilities is
required with the exception of water lines which require 10-ft horizontal and 1.5-ft vertical.
Talbot Hills 4-Lot Short Plat – PRE24-000146
Page 6 of 6
May 29, 2024
b. The stormwater line should be minimum 5 feet away from any other structure or wall or
building.
c. Trench of any utility should not be in the zone of influence of the retaining wall or of the
building.
3. All construction utility permits for utility and street improvements will require separate plan
submittals. All utility plans shall confirm to the Renton Drafting Standards. A licensed Civil Engineer
shall prepare the civil plans. Please visit the Development Engineering Forms page for the most up-
to-date plan submittal requirements:
http://rentonwa.gov/business/default.aspx?id=42473
4. A landscaping plan shall be included with the civil plan submittal. Each plan shall be on separate
sheets.
5. Fees quoted in this document reflect the fees applicable in the year 2024 only and will be assessed
based on the fee that is current at the time of the permit application or issuance, as applicable to the
permit type. Please visit www.rentonwa.gov for the current development fee schedule.
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE: May 30, 2024
TO: Pre-Application File No. PRE24-000146
FROM: Jill Ding, Senior Planner
SUBJECT: Talbot Hills –
54X S 55th St, Renton, WA 98055
Parcel No. 3123059119
General: We have completed a preliminary review of the pre-application for the above-
referenced development proposal. The following comments on development and permitting
issues are based on the pre-application submittals made to the City of Renton by the applicant
and the codes in effect on the date of review. The applicant is cautioned that information
contained in this summary may be subject to modification and/or concurrence by official decision-
makers (e.g., Hearing Examiner, Community & Economic Development Administrator, Public
Works Administrator, Planning Director, Development Services Director, Development
Engineering Director, and City Council). Review comments may also need to be revised based on
site planning and other design changes required by City staff or made by the applicant. The
applicant is encouraged to review all applicable sections of the Renton Municipal Code. The
Development Regulations are available online at https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/Renton.
Project Proposal: The subject property is rectangularly shaped and is located on the north side of
S 55th St at 54X S 55th St (parcel no. 3123059119). The applicant is proposing to subdivide the
existing, vacant, 98,010 sq. ft. (2.25 acre) site into four (4) lots, a shared driveway tract, a
landscape tract, a drainage facility tract, and an open space/tree retention tract. There are two
(2) residential zoning designations mapped on the project site, approximately 47,731 sq. ft. of the
site is located within the Residential – 4 (R-4) zone and approximately 46,079 sq. ft. is located
within the Residential – 1 (R-1) zone. The portion of the project site located within the R-1 zone is
also mapped within the Talbot Urban Separator Overlay. Access to the proposed lots is proposed
via a 20-foot wide shared driveway off of S 55th St. The applicant submitted two (2) optional
layouts for the proposed short plat. Option 1 is a cluster short plat that proposes four (4) uniform
sized and shaped lots. The proposed lots would range in size from 6,532 sq. ft. to 7,272 sq. ft.
Option 2 is a cluster short plat that proposes three (3) R-4 compliant lots and one (1) R-1 cluster
lot. The proposed lots would range in size from 9,032 sq. ft. to 26,113 sq. ft. According to City of
Renton (COR) Maps, high and moderate landslide hazard areas and sensitive and protected slopes
are mapped on the project site.
Current Use: The site is currently vacant.
1. Zoning/Density Requirements: There are two (2) residential zoning designations mapped on
the project site, approximately 47,731 sq. ft. of the site is located within the Residential – 4
(R-4) zone and approximately 46,079 sq. ft. is located within the Residential – 1 (R-1) zone.
Talbot Hills
Page 2 of 9
May 30, 2024
The portion of the project site located within the R-1 zone is also mapped within the Talbot
Urban Separator Overlay. There is no minimum density requirement within the R-1 and R-4
zones. The maximum density permitted for R-1 zoned properties within the Urban Separator
Overlay is 1 dwelling unit per gross acre (RMC 4-2-110E.36) subject to the requirements of
RMC 4-3-110, Urban Separator Overlay Regulations.
The maximum density permitted in the R-4 zone is 4.0 dwelling units per net acre (du/ac). Net
density is calculated after the deduction of areas required for public right-of-way dedication,
shared driveway tract, and critical areas from the gross site area.
The applicant would be required to submit a density worksheet for each zoning designation
mapped on the project site, verifying that the proposed lots would comply with the density
requirements of the R-1 and R-4 zones.
2. Development Standards: The project would be subject to RMC 4-2-110A, “Development
Standards for Single Family Zoning Designations” effective at the time of complete application
(noted as “R-1 and R-4 standards” herein). These standards are available online:
https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/Renton/. The proposal appears to comply with the
following development standards.
Minimum Lot Size, Width and Depth – The minimum lot size permitted in the R-1 zone is one
acre. Minimum lot width is 100 feet for interior lots and 110 feet for corner lots; the minimum
lot depth required is 200 feet. Within designated urban separators, clustering is required;
individual lots shall not be less than ten thousand (10,000) square feet and development shall
be consistent with RMC 4-3-110, Urban Separator Overlay Regulations. Outside of designated
urban separators, clustering may be allowed in order to meet objectives such as preserving
significant natural features, providing neighborhood open space, or facilitating the provision
of sewer service. The maximum net density shall not be exceeded; except within urban
separators a density bonus may be granted allowing the total density to achieve one dwelling
unit per gross contiguous acre. In order for the bonus to be allowed, projects must provide
native vegetation cover (either existing or new) on sixty five percent (65%) of the gross area
of all parcels in the land use action, including both the area within and outside the open space
corridor. In addition, projects shall provide at least one of the following:
a. Enhancement of wetlands at a ratio of one-half (1/2) acre enhanced for one acre
delineated within the urban separator pursuant to RMC 4-3-050M.12.b, Evaluation
Criteria, and RMC 4-3-050M.12.c, Wetlands Chosen for Enhancement. Enhancement
proposed for a density bonus may not also be used for a mitigation for other wetland
alterations; or
b. The removal of and/or bringing into conformance with Renton standards of legal
nonconforming uses from the site; or
c. Natural surface pedestrian trails with public access. The trails can be part of an
adopted trail system or, where there is no planned trail system, of a configuration
approved by the Community and Economic Development Administrator. In the
absence of either wetlands or legal nonconforming uses on the site, public access and
trails shall be provided and approved by the Community and Economic Development
Administrator.
The minimum lot size permitted in the R-4 zone, is 9,000 square feet for parcels being
subdivided. Minimum lot width is 70 feet for interior lots and 80 feet for corner lots; minimum
Talbot Hills
Page 3 of 9
May 30, 2024
lot depth is 100 feet. The applicant would be required to provide a lot layout during the
application prescreening process and prior to the City formally accepting the application
that demonstrates all lots would comply with the minimum lot size, width, and depth
requirements of the R-1 and R-4 zones as well as the Urban Separator Regulations.
Clustering provisions are permitted within the Urban Separator Overlay, however they
would not be permitted within the R-4 zone (which is outside of the Urban Separator
Overlay).
Setbacks – Setbacks are the minimum required distance between the building footprint and
the property line. The required setbacks for the R-1 zone are: Front yard: 30 feet for the
primary structure; Rear yard: 30 feet; Side yards: 15 feet; and Secondary Front yard: 30 feet.
The required setbacks for the R-4 zone are: Front yard: 30 feet for the primary structure; Rear
yard: 25 feet; Side yards: 20 feet combined (minimum of 7.5 feet on either side); and
Secondary Front yard: 30 feet.
Corner lots required to have a front yard and a secondary front yard are relieved of the
requirement to have a rear yard; in place of a rear yard setback, the side yard setback of the
zone shall apply. Setbacks for the new residences would be verified at the time of building
permit review.
Building Height – The maximum wall plate height is 32 feet and 3 stories. Roofs with a pitch
equal to or greater than 4:12 may project an additional six (6) vertical feet from the maximum
wall plate height; common rooftop features, such as chimneys, may project an additional four
(4) vertical feet from the roof surface. Non-exempt vertical projections (e.g., decks, railings,
etc.) shall not extend above the maximum wall plate height unless the projection is stepped
back one-and-a-half (1.5) horizontal feet from each façade for each one (1) vertical foot above
the maximum wall plate height. The applicant would be required, at the time of Building
Permit Review, to provide elevations demonstrating compliance with the maximum height
requirements.
Building Coverage – The R-1 standards allow a maximum building coverage of 20% of the lot
area. The R-4 standards allow a maximum building coverage of 35% of the lot area. Building
coverage requirements for the site would be verified at the time of Building Permit Review.
Impervious Surface Coverage – The maximum impervious surface coverage in the R-1 zone is
25%. The maximum impervious coverage in the R-4 zone is 50%. Impervious surface
requirements for the site would be verified at the time of Building Permit Review.
3. Residential Design and Open Space Standards: Residential development would be subject to
compliance with the Residential Design Standards outlined in RMC 4-2-115. Compliance with
the Residential Design Standards would be verified at the time of Building Permit Review.
4. Fences/Walls: If the applicant intends to install any fences or retaining walls as part of this
project, the location must be designated on the landscape plan or grading plan. A fence
and/or wall detail should also be included on the plan. A fence taller than 6 feet shall require
a building permit or an explicit exemption from the Building Official. A retaining wall that is 4
feet or taller, as measured by the vertical distance from the bottom of the footing to the finish
grade at the top of the wall requires a building permit. A fence shall not be constructed on
top of a retaining wall unless the total combined height of the retaining wall and the fence
Talbot Hills
Page 4 of 9
May 30, 2024
does not exceed the allowed height of a standalone fence. For more information about fences
and retaining walls refer to RMC 4-4-040.
5. Landscaping: Except for critical areas, all portions of the development area not covered by
structures, required parking, access, circulation or service areas, must be landscaped with
native, drought-resistant vegetative cover. The minimum on-site landscape width required
along street frontages is 10 feet and shall contain trees, shrubs, and landscaping. Street trees
in the ROW planter will also be required.
Please refer to landscape regulations (RMC 4-4-070) for additional general and specific
landscape requirements. A conceptual landscape plan demonstrating compliance with the
landscape standards shall be submitted at the time of land use application.
6. Significant Tree Retention: When significant trees (greater than 6-inch caliper or 8-caliper
inches for alders and cottonwoods) are proposed to be removed, a tree inventory and a tree
retention plan along with an arborist report, tree retention plan and tree retention worksheet
shall be provided with the formal land use application as defined in RMC 4-8-120. The tree
retention plan must show preservation of at least 30% of significant trees. Please refer to RMC
4-4-130, Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations for further general and specific tree
retention and land clearing requirements.
In addition to retaining a minimum of 30% of existing significant trees, properties subject to
an active land development permit shall comply with minimum tree credit retention
requirements of a minimum of 30 credits per net acre. Tree credits encourage retention of
existing significant trees with larger trees being worth more tree credits.
TREE SIZE TREE CREDITS
New small species tree 0.25
New medium species tree 1
New large species tree 2
Preserved tree 6 – 9 caliper inches 4
Preserved tree 10 – 12 caliper inches 5
Preserved tree 12 – 15 caliper inches 6
Preserved tree 16 – 18 caliper inches 7
Preserved tree 19 – 21 caliper inches 8
Preserved tree 22 – 24 caliper inches 9
Preserved tree 25 – 28 caliper inches 10
Preserved tree 29 – 32 caliper inches 11
Preserved tree 33 – 36 caliper inches 12
Talbot Hills
Page 5 of 9
May 30, 2024
TREE SIZE TREE CREDITS
Preserved tree 37 caliper inches and greater 13
Significant trees shall be retained in the following priority order:
Priority One: Landmark trees; significant trees that form a continuous canopy; significant trees
on slopes greater than twenty percent (20%); significant trees adjacent to critical areas and
their associated buffers; significant trees over sixty feet (60') in height or greater than
eighteen inches (18") caliper; and trees that shelter interior trees or trees on abutting
properties from strong winds, which could otherwise allow such sheltered trees to be blown
down if removed.
Priority Two: Healthy tree groupings whose associated undergrowth can be preserved; other
significant native evergreen or deciduous trees; and other significant non-native trees.
Priority Three: Alders and cottonwoods shall be retained when all other trees have been
evaluated for retention and are not able to be retained unless the alders and/ or cottonwoods
are used as part of an approved enhancement project within a critical area or its buffer.
The Administrator may require independent review of any land use application that involves
tree removal and land clearing at the City's discretion.
The Administrator may authorize the planting of replacement trees on the site if it can be
demonstrated to the Administrator's satisfaction that replacement requirements in RMC 4-4-
130H1e can be met.
Tree retention standards shall be applied to the developable area, as defined in RMC 4-11-
040, Definitions D, of a property. A formal tree retention/planting plan and tree retention
and tree credit worksheet prepared by an arborist or landscape architect would be reviewed
at the time of the land use application.
7. Access/Driveways: Access to the proposed lots is proposed via a 20 ft. wide shared driveway
off of S 55th St.
Shared driveways may be allowed for access to four (4) or fewer residential lots (RMC 4-6-
060J), provided:
a. At least one of the four (4) lots abuts a public right-of-way and the street frontage of
the lot is equal to or greater than the lot width requirement of the zone;
b. The subject lots are not created by a subdivision of ten (10) or more lots;
c. A public street is not anticipated by the City of Renton to be necessary for existing or
future traffic and/or pedestrian circulation through the short subdivision or to serve
adjacent property;
d. The shared driveway would not adversely affect future circulation to neighboring
properties;
e. The shared driveway is no more than three hundred feet (300') in length; and
f. The shared driveway poses no safety risk and provides sufficient access for
emergency vehicles and personnel.
Talbot Hills
Page 6 of 9
May 30, 2024
Shared driveways shall be within a tract; the width of the tract and paved surface shall be a
minimum of sixteen feet (16'); the Fire Department may require the tract and paved surface
to be up to twenty feet (20') wide. If a shared driveway abuts properties that are not part of
the subdivision, an eight foot (8') wide landscaped strip shall be provided between the shared
driveway and neighboring properties. The landscape strip shall be within a tract and planted
with a mixture of trees, shrubs, and groundcover, as required in RMC 4-4-070. The shared
driveway may be required to include a turnaround. No sidewalks are required for shared
driveways; however, drainage improvements pursuant to City Code are required (i.e.,
collection and treatment of stormwater), as well as an approved pavement thickness. The
maximum grade for the shared driveway shall not exceed fifteen percent (15%), except for
within approved hillside subdivisions. Any driveway shall be setback at least 5 feet from the
side lot lines (unless utilizing a joint driveway).
Each lot is required to accommodate off street parking for a minimum of two vehicles. The
maximum driveway slopes cannot exceed 15%. If the grade exceeds 15%, a variance is
required. Driveways exceeding eight percent (8%) shall provide slotted drains at the lower
end with positive drainage discharge to restrict runoff from entering the garage/residence or
crossing any public sidewalk. Compliance with private driveway standards would be verified
at the time of building permit review. Please review RMC 4-4-080I for further driveway
requirements.
8. Stormwater Facilities: In accordance with RMC 4-7-200B, Drainage vaults, ponds, etc., shall
be located within dedicated tracts. Option 2 includes a storm drainage easement, this layout
would need to be revised to include any storm drainage facilities within a tract.
9. Urban Separator Overlay: The project site is mapped within the Talbot Urban Separator
Overlay. Approval of a short plat on an undeveloped legal lot in the Talbot Urban Separator
Overlay shall require dedication of fifty percent (50%) of the gross land area of that portion
of the parcel or parcels located within the Urban Separator as a non-revocable open space
tract retained by the property owner, or dedicated to a homeowners association or other
suitable organization as determined by the Administrator. In order to satisfy the dedication
requirement, some of the area to be dedicated may consist of land abutting the Urban
Separator, as determined by the Community and Economic Development Administrator, on a
case-by-case basis. Acreage in tracts may include critical areas and/or critical area buffers. At
a minimum, open space shall be connected to another contiguous open space parcel by a fifty
foot (50') corridor.
a. Forest/vegetation clearing shall be limited to a maximum of thirty five percent (35%)
of the gross acreage of the site except:
i. The percentage of forest/vegetation coverage may be increased to qualify for the
density bonus allowed in RMC 4-2-110E.
ii. Modification of the percentage of forest/vegetation retention may be approved
if determined necessary to meet the surface water retention/detention
standards of RMC 4-3-110E.5.d of this Section.
iii. Forest/vegetation clearing greater than thirty five percent (35%) of individual
building sites may be approved to allow grading for a home site; provided, that:
Talbot Hills
Page 7 of 9
May 30, 2024
(a) A landscape plan is provided for each building site showing compensating
replanting of species with the same or better water retention and erosion
control functions;
(b) Five percent (5%) additional replacement landscaping per site is provided;
(c) Plant caliper is sufficient to achieve needed water retention and erosion
control functions;
(d) Individual trees or stands of trees are retained when feasible. Feasibility is
defined as locations and tree health sufficient to ensure continued viability of
the tree and safety of structures within the developed portion of the lot; and
(e) The landscape plan provides massing of plant material to create either a
connection to required open space or is of sufficient size to create functional
wildlife habitat.
b. If the existing cleared area of a site, as of March 21, 2005, is greater than thirty five
percent (35%), approval of a plat shall require replanting of forest/vegetative cover.
c. Forest/vegetation cover may include a combination of Northwest native vegetation
including conifer, deciduous trees and shrubs sufficient to provide water retention
and erosion control. If existing vegetation is found to be insufficient to meet
forest/vegetation coverage standards, additional plantings shall be required.
d. Stormwater management shall comply with the Surface Water Design Manual.
e. Private access easements and improvements shall be established at the minimum
standard needed to meet public safety requirements.
f. Landscape plans required in RMC 4-4-070 shall include retention/replanting plans as
applicable, consistent with standards and plant lists in King County Department of
Natural Resources and Parks Water and Land Resources Division Publication “Going
Native.”
10. Critical Areas: High and moderate landslide hazard areas and sensitive and protected slopes
(grades between 25 and 90 percent) are mapped on the project site. A 15-foot structure
setback is required for protected slopes. In addition, protected slopes and their associated
buffers shall be placed in a Native Growth Projection Area (tract). The applicant would be
required to provide a geotechnical report demonstrating the proposal would not increase
the threat of the geological hazard to adjacent or abutting properties beyond pre-
development conditions; the proposal will not adversely impact other critical areas; and the
development can be safely accommodated on the site.
11. Hillside Subdivisions: The following additional standards shall apply to hillside subdivisions:
1. Application Information: Information concerning the soils, geology, drainage patterns, and
vegetation shall be presented in order to evaluate the drainage, erosion control and slope
stability for site development of the proposed plat. The applicant must demonstrate that the
development of the hillside subdivision will not result in soil erosion and sedimentation,
landslide, slippage, excess surface water runoff, increased costs of building and maintaining
roads and public facilities and increased need for emergency relief and rescue operations.
Talbot Hills
Page 8 of 9
May 30, 2024
2. Grading: Detailed plans for any proposed cut and fill operations shall be submitted. These
plans shall include the angle of slope, contours, compaction, and retaining walls. Plans shall
be consistent with requirements in RMC 4-4-060, Grading, Excavation and Mining
Regulations.
3. Tracts: Areas of the subdivision deemed to be critical areas due to designation as protected
slopes shall be located within a tract or tracts.
4. Streets:
a. Streets may only have a grade exceeding fifteen percent (15%) if approved by the
Department and the Fire Department.
b. Street widths may be less than those required in the street standards for streets with
grades steeper than fifteen percent (15%) if parking prohibition on one or both sides of
the street is approved by the Administrator.)
5. Lots: Lots may be required to be larger than minimum lot sizes required by the Zoning Code.
Generally, lots in steeper areas of the subdivision should be larger than those in less steep
areas of the subdivision.
6. Erosion Control Requirements: Any clearing or grading shall be accompanied by erosion
control measures as deemed necessary by the Department.
12. Environmental Review: Projects with critical areas are subject to Environmental (SEPA)
Review (RMC 4-9-070H.2). An environmental checklist would be required with the short plat
application. An environmental threshold determination would be issued by the City’s
Environmental Review Committee.
13. Permit Requirements: The proposal would require administrative Short Plat approval and
Environmental (SEPA) Review. The applications would be reviewed concurrently within an
estimated time frame of six to eight weeks. The 2024 administrative application fees would
total $7,274 ($6,080.00 short plat + $1,800.00 SEPA + $394 Technology Fee = $8,274). The fee
for any Code Modifications are $290 each. A 5% technology fee would also be assessed at the
time of land use application. All fees are subject to change. Detailed information regarding
the land use application submittal can be found on the City’s Permit Center website
(www.Rentonwa.gov). The City now requires electronic plan submittal for all applications.
Once Preliminary Short Plat approval is obtained, the applicant must complete the required
improvements and dedications, as well as satisfy any conditions of the preliminary approval
before submitting for Final Short Plat review. Once final approval is received, the plat may be
recorded. The newly created lots may only be sold after the plat has been recorded. In
addition to the required land use permits, separate construction and building permits may
be required.
14. Waivers of Submittal Requirements: The submittal checklist is not an exhaustive list of
submittal requirements and may be modified in cases where additional information is
required to complete the review of an application. In addition, non-applicable submittal
requirements may be waived. The applicant should contact the assigned Project Manager if
there are any questions regarding submittal requirements.
15. Public Information Sign: Public Information Signs are required for all Type II Land Use Permits
as classified by RMC 4-8-080. Public Information Signs are intended to inform the public of
Talbot Hills
Page 9 of 9
May 30, 2024
potential land development, specific permits/actions being considered by the City, and to
facilitate timely and effective public participation in the review process. The applicant must
follow the specifications provided in the public information sign handout. The applicant is
solely responsible for the construction, installation, maintenance, removal, and any costs
associated with the sign.
16. Impact Fees: In addition to the applicable building and construction fees, impact fees would
be required. Fees change periodically and the fees in effect at the time of building permit
issuance would apply. For informational purposes, the 2024 impact fees are as follows:
• A Fire Impact fee of $421.98 per new single family dwelling unit;
• A Transportation Impact fee of $11,485.67 per new single family dwelling unit;
• A Parks Impact fee of $3,276.44 per dwelling unit; and
• A Renton School District Impact fee of $2,161.00 per dwelling unit (plus an additional 5%
processing fee).
The city’s 2023-2024 fee schedule is available for your review on the City’s website.
17. Next Steps: When the formal application materials are complete, the applicant shall have the
materials pre-screened prior to submitting the complete application package. Please contact
Jill Ding, Senior Planner, at 425-430-6598 or jding@rentonwa.gov to submit prescreen
materials and subsequent land use application.
18. Expiration: Upon approval, the Short Plat is valid for five years with a possible one year
extension (RMC 4-7-070M). It is the applicant’s responsibility to monitor the expiration
dates.