HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRE25-000106_StaffComments_250501DEPARTMENT 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
St. Thomas Orthodox Church Expansion
11651 SE 188th St
11641 SE 188th St
PRE 25-000106
May 1, 2025
Contact Information:
Planner: Mariah Kerrihard, 425-430-7238, mkerrihard@rentonwa.gov
Public Works Plan Reviewer: Michael Sippo, 425-430-7298, msippo@rentonwa.gov
Fire Prevention Reviewer: Hugo Sotelo, 425.276.9587, hsotelo@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).
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE: May 1st, 2025
TO: Mariah Kerrihard , Planner
FROM: Michael Sippo , Civil Plan Reviewer
SUBJECT: St. Thomas Orthodox Church Addition
11651 SE 188th Street, Renton, WA 98058
PRE 25-000106
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 reviewed the application for the St. Thomas Orthodox Church Addition located at 11651 SE 188th
Street, APN 6198400020, and have the following comments:
EXISTING CONDITIONS
The project comprises of two parcels, 6198400020 and 6198400021. These sites are approximately 1.1
acres and 1.1 acres in size respectively. The first site has two building structures, a Church residence and
a Church. The second site has an existing single-family residence. There are a few trees and groundcover
throughout the site, and lawn on the residential property. The Church property has asphalt pavement
and some landscaping around the buildings.
Water Water service is provided by Soos Creek Water and Sewer District. Review of the water plans
will be conducted by Soos Creek Water and Sewer District and the Renton Regional Fire
Authority. Plans approved by Soos Creek Water and Sewer District shall be routed to the City
for final review prior to permit issuance. Applicant needs to provide a certificate of water
availability with the Land Use application.
Sewer Sewer service is provided by Soos Creek Water and Sewer District. Review of the water plans
will be conducted by Soos Creek Water and Sewer District and the Renton Regional Fire
Authority. Plans approved by Soos Creek Water and Sewer District shall be routed to the City
St Thomas Orthodox Church Addition – PRE25-000106
Page 2 of 4
for final review prior to permit issuance. Applicant needs to provide a certificate of sewer
availability with the Land Use application.
Storm There is an existing 12-inch stormwater main in SE 188th Street (see City plan no R-355603).
There is also an existing on-site drainage system that connects to the public conveyance
system in SE 188th Street (see City plan no R-355603). There are two bioswales on-site that
currently collect drainage on the Church property and the no storm drainage on the
residential property. They both generally slope towards SE 188th Street and do not have any
critical areas on-site.
Streets SE 188th Street is a Residential Access Street with an existing right of way (ROW) width of 60.0-
ft as measured using the King County Assessor’s Map. 118th Ave SE is a private street serving
up to 4 residential properties with approximately 11-feet of gravel roadway.
SURFACE WATER COMMENTS
1. Drainage plans and a drainage report complying with the adopted 2022 Renton Surface Water
Design Manual will be required. Refer to Figure 1.1.2.A – Flow Chart of the 2022 Renton Surface
Water Design Manual (RSWDM) to determine what type of drainage review is required for this
site. The site falls within the City’s Flow Control Duration Standard Matching Forested Site
Conditions. The site falls within the Soos Creek drainage basin.
2. 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 here.
3. If the new plus replaced pollution generating impervious surface exceeds 5,000 SF, the applicant
will be required to provide enhanced 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.
4. 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.1.3 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.
5. A geotechnical soils report for the site is required per the 2022 Renton Surface Water Design
Manual Section C.1.3. Information on the water table and soil permeability (measured
infiltration rates), with recommendations of appropriate on-site BMPs per Core Requirement #9
and Appendix C shall be included in the report. The report should also include information
concerning the soils, geology, drainage patterns and vegetation present shall be presented to
evaluate the drainage, erosion control and slope stability for site development of the proposed
plat. The applicant must demonstrate the development will not result in soil erosion and
sedimentation, landslide, slippage, or excess surface water runoff.
6. Erosion control measures to meet the City requirements shall be provided.
7. The development falls within the R-4 zone which has a maximum impervious surface area of
50% per lot, and maximum building coverage of 35% per lot.
St Thomas Orthodox Church Addition – PRE25-000106
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8. A Construction Stormwater General Permit from Department of Ecology will be required if
grading and clearing of the site exceeds one acre. A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
(SWPPP) is required for this site.
9. 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.
a. The current surface water SDC fee for the proposed use is $0.94 per square foot of new
impervious surface, but not less than $2,350.
b. The full fee schedule can be found at here.
TRANSPORTATION COMMENTS
1. Per City code 4-6-060 frontage improvements are required for new construction in excess of
$175,000. The proposed project parcels front SE 188th St to the north and private property on
all other sides.
a. SE 188th St is classified as a residential access street, with an existing right-of-way
(ROW) width of approximately 60-feet. To meet the City’s complete street standards for
Residential Access streets, a minimum ROW width of 53-feet is required. Per RMC 4-6-
060 half of street improvements as taken from the ROW centerline shall be required and
include a 26-foot paved road (13-feet each side), a 0.5-foot curb, an 8-foot planting
strip, and a 5-foot sidewalk. No dedication is expected to be required pending final
survey.
b. 118th Ave SE is currently a private road serving up to 4 residents and is part of the City of
Renton Core Maps “Potential Roads” designation. To meet the City’s complete street
standards for residential streets, a dedication of 35-feet will be required along with 20-
feet of paved roadway, 0.5-foot curb, 8-foot planter, and a 5-foot sidewalk. There shall
be 1.5-feet designated at the existing property line to tie into the existing grade.
2. A traffic impact analysis is required when the estimated vehicular traffic generated from a
proposed development exceeds 20 vehicles per hour in either the AM (6:00 – 9:00) or PM (3:00
– 6:00) peak periods. Traffic study guidelines are included with the pre-application packet. The
analysis must include a discussion on traffic circulation to and from the site and onsite traffic
circulation. The study shall include trip generation and trip distribution for the project for both
AM and PM peak hours.
3. 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.
c. The maximum width of single loaded garage driveway shall not exceed nine feet (9') and
double-loaded garage driveway shall not exceed sixteen feet (16') for residential uses.
d. The width of any driveway shall not exceed thirty feet (30’) for all other uses.
4. Paving and trench restoration shall comply with the City’s Trench Restoration and Overlay
Requirements.
5. Undergrounding of all existing utilities is required on all frontages per RMC 4-6-090.
6. Paving and trench restoration within the City of Renton right of way shall comply with the City’s
Trench Restoration and Street Overlay Requirements.
7. The development is subject to transportation impact fees. Fees will be charged based on the
rate at the time of building permit issuance.
a. The 2025 transportation impact fee is $4.79 per square foot of church.
St Thomas Orthodox Church Addition – PRE25-000106
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b. The 2025 transportation impact fee per net new PM Peak Hour Person Vehicle Trip is
$8,031.94.
c. The full fee schedule can be found at here.
GENERAL COMMENTS
1. All existing and proposed utility lines (i.e. electrical, phone, and cable services, etc.) along
property frontage or within the site must be underground. The construction of these franchise
utilities must be inspected and approved by a City of Renton inspector.
2. Maximum exposed retaining wall height is 6-ft and shall be setback a minimum of 3-ft from the
right-of-way as outlined in RMC 4-4-040 – Fences, Hedges and Retaining Walls. a. Show all
retaining walls on profile view. No walls shall be greater than 6’.
3. Retaining walls that are 4’ or taller from bottom of footing and stormwater detention vaults will
require a separate building permit. Structural calculations and plans prepared by a licensed
engineer will be required as part of the building permit review.
4. Adequate separation between utilities as well as other features shall be provided in accordance
with code requirements:
a. Provide rim and invert elevations on all drainage and sewer structures.
b. 7-ft minimum horizontal and 1-ft vertical separation between storm and other utilities is
required except for water lines which require 10-ft horizontal and 1.5-ft vertical.
c. The stormwater line should be minimum 5 feet away from any other structure or wall or
building.
d. Trench of any utility should not be in the zone of influence of the retaining wall or of the
building.
5. All civil construction 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.
6. A landscaping plan shall be included with the civil plan submittal. Each plan shall be on separate
sheets.
7. A demo permit is required for the demolition of the existing building. The demo permit shall be
acquired through the building department.
8. Fees quoted in this document reflect the fees applicable in the year 2025 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. Current fees can be found here.
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE: April 15th 2025
TO: Mariah Kerrihard, Assistant Planner
FROM: Hugo Sotelo, DFM
SUBJECT: St. Thomas Orthodox
1. The preliminary fire flow is 2,750 gpm. A minimum of two fire hydrants are required.
One within 150-feet and one within 300-feet of the building. One hydrant is required
within 50-feet of all fire department connections and sprinkler systems. A looped
water main is required for all fire flows over 2,500 gpm. A water availability
certificate from Soos Creek Water district will be required.
2. Approved fire sprinkler and fire alarm systems are required throughout the building.
Direct outside access is required to the fire sprinkler riser room. Fire alarm system
is required to be fully addressable and full detection is required. Separate plans and
permits required by the fire department for fire sprinklers, and fire alarms.
3. Fire department apparatus access roadways are required within 150 feet of all points
on the building. Fire lane signage required for the on-site roadways. The required
turning radius is 25 feet inside and 45 feet outside. Roadways shall be a minimum of
a 30-ton vehicle and 75-psi point lading. Approved turnarounds are required for dead
end roads that exceed 150 feet. Emergency operation of any electrically controlled
access gates will be required.
4. Development fire impact fees for a Church are .24 cents a square foot. Impact fees
will be paid at the time of issuance. Credit is available for the removal or retention
of the existing buildings.
CityofRenton\Department Folders\Community and Economic Development (CED)\Current Planning\Pre-
Applications\2025\PRE25-000106
Department of Community
& Economic Development
Memorandum
DATE: May 1, 2025
TO: Pre-Application File No. 25-000106
FROM: Mariah Kerrihard, Associate Planner
SUBJECT: St. Thomas Orthodox Church Expansion –
11651 SE 188th St (APN 6198400020)
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 applicant proposes expanding existing church facilities through three
(3) phases. Once completed the project would include:
• A new two (2) story church addition to the existing church structure with a gross
square footage of 8,756 square feet.
• A new single story social hall within the existing church structure with a gross square
footage of 3,920 square feet.
• A new single-story community center with a gross square footage of 3,076 square
feet.
• Demolition of existing three-bedroom house.
• Seventy (70) total parking stalls
The property gains access from SE 188th St from the north. The site has a Comprehensive
Plan Land Use Designation of Residential Low Density and a zoning designation of
Residential-4 (R-4) dwelling units per net acre (du/ac). The total gross site area is
approximately 97,766 square feet (2.21 acres). Access is proposed via the existing driveway
from SE 188th St. Access is currently via one (1) driveway from SE 188th St. The parsonage
and detached dwelling are proposed for retention; the existing surface parking lot is
proposed for expansion to a 70-stall surface parking lot from the existing 19 surface parking
stalls. Per COR Maps critical areas are not present on the site.
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Current Use: The project area is currently improved with multiple structures. On 11641 SE
188th St (APN 6198400021) is a detached dwelling with access to SE 188th St. A parsonage,
the existing church facilities and a 19-stall surface parking lot are located on 11651 SE 188th
St (APN 6198400020).
1. Zoning /Land Use Designation, and Overlays: The subject property is located within
the Residential-4 (R-4) zoning classification. The Residential Low Density Land Use
designation is intended to implement the R-4 zone. The R-4 zone is established to
promote urban single family residential neighborhoods serviceable by urban utilities
and containing open space amenities. The R-4 designation serves as a transition
between rural designation zones and higher density residential zones. It is intended as
an intermediate lower density residential zone. A religious institution within the R-4
zone requires a Hearing Examiner Conditional Use Permit. Expansion of the existing
religious institutions’ use will result in a major revision, which requires a new review and
approval through the Hearing Examiner Conditional Use Permit as it is an intensification
of the use. Typical accessory uses associated with religious institutions include
licensed day care facilities, playground, community meeting facilities, private schools,
rectory or convent, and office for administration of the institution. Detached dwellings
are permitted within the R-4.
2. Development Standards: The project would be subject to RMC 4-2-110A,
“Development Standards for Residential Zoning Designations” effective at the time of
complete application (noted as “R-4 standards” herein).
Density – The area of public rights-of-way, legally recorded private access easements
and critical areas (i.e. very high landslide hazard areas, protected slopes (except
evaluate on a case-by-case basis those protected slopes created by previous
development, wetlands, Class 1 to 4 streams and lakes or floodways) would be deducted
from the gross site area to determine the “net” site area prior to calculating density. In
order to calculate the proposed density of the project, any area of public road, private
driveway/easement, and/or critical area dedication must be known. All fractions which
result from net density calculations shall be truncated at two (2) numbers past the
decimal (e.g., 4.5678 becomes 4.56). Calculations for minimum or maximum density
that result in a fraction that is 0.50 or greater shall be rounded up to the nearest whole
number. Those density calculations resulting in a fraction that is less than 0.50 shall be
rounded down to the nearest whole number. The R-4 zone has a maximum density of four
(4) dwelling units per acre with no minimum. Based on the approximate gross land area
of 2.0299 acres, two (2) dwelling units arrive at a gross density of approximately 0.98
du/ac (2 du / 2.0299 gross acres = 0.98 du/ac). The gross density would result in 0.98
du/ac. Only one (1) detached dwelling is permitted per lot. At least one (1) of the
detached dwellings will need to be an accessory use to the religious institution or a
lot line adjustment needs to occur to place one (1) detached dwelling on its own lot.
A density worksheet was not included with the pre-application submittal materials;
therefore, staff was unable to verify compliance with the density requirements. A
completed density worksheet would be required with the land use application. The
applicant would be required to demonstrate compliance with the net density
requirements of the zone at the time of formal application.
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Minimum Lot Size, Width and Depth – The minimum lot size permitted in the R-4 zone is
7,000 square feet for parcels. Minimum lot width is 70 feet (70’); minimum lot width for
corner lots is 80 feet (80’); minimum lot depth is 100 feet (100’). Due to the project
encompassing two (2) lots, a lot line adjustment would be required to consolidate
the properties or adjust the boundary lines so that the entirety of the project is on
one (1) lot. Compliance with minimum lot size, width and depth standards would be
verified at the time of land use application. The submitted plans would need to show
compliance with the required lot size and dimensional standard with the land use
application.
Building Standards – The R-4 standards allow a maximum building coverage of 35 percent
(35%) of the lot area. The maximum impervious coverage in the R-4 zone is 50 percent
(50%). The maximum wall plate height is restricted to 32 feet (32’), and the buildings shall
be not more than three (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 vertical feet (4’) 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 horizontal feet (1.5’) from each façade for each one vertical foot (1’) above the
maximum wall plate height. The maximum wall plate height for detached accessory
structures is 12 feet (12’) and the total floor area must be less than that of the primary
structure. Accessory structures are also included in building lot coverage calculations.
The proposed height exceeds zoning allowances. Roofs with a pitch equal to or
greater than 4:12 may only project an additional six vertical feet (6’) from the
maximum wall plate height of 32 feet (32’). The proposed impervious surface
percentage is exceeding the maximum 50% within the R-4 zone. New development
would need to comply with the maximum building coverage, impervious surface
requirements, and building height regulations of the zone at the time of land use
application.
Setbacks – Setbacks are the minimum required distance between the building footprint
and the property line. The required setbacks for the R-4 zone are: Front yard: 30 feet (30’);
Secondary front yard (which applies to corner lots): 30 feet (30’); Rear yard: 25 feet (25’);
Side yard: combined 20 feet (20’) with not less than seven and a half feet (7.5’) on either
side. New structures will need to be set back a minimum of 30 feet (30’) from the edge
of the easement for 118th Ave SE as it is a secondary front yard. Compliance with
required setbacks for new development would be verified at the time of land use
application.
3. Refuse and Recycling Areas: In non-residential developments, a minimum of three (3)
square feet per every 1,000 square feet of building gross floor area shall be provided for
recyclable and a minimum of six (6) square feet per 1,000 square feet of building gross
floor area shall be provided for refuse deposit areas. A total minimum area 100 square
feet shall be provided for recycling and refuse deposit areas. Refuse and recyclables
deposit areas and collections points may be allocated to a centralized area, or
dispersed through the site, in easily accessible areas for both users and hauling trucks.
Architectural design of any structure enclosing an outdoor refuse or recyclables deposit
area, or any building primarily used to contain a refuse or recyclables deposit area shall
be consistent with the design of the primary structure(s) on the site as determined by
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the Administrator. A six-foot (6') wall or fence shall enclose any outdoor refuse or
recyclables deposit area. The refuse and recycling area shall meet all applicable
requirements in RMC 4-4-090, “Refuse and Recyclables Standards”.
A refuse and recyclable collection area is not shown on the drawings. Based on the
provided gross square footage, a 16,850 square foot building would require a
minimum of 51 square feet for recyclables and 101 square feet for refuse for a total
refuse and recycling area of 152 square feet. Full compliance will be determined at
the time of Land Use Application.
4. Landscaping: Additions to existing buildings that increase the gross square footage of
the building by greater than one-third (1/3) are subject to landscape requirements. With
the exception of 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 ten feet (10’) and shall contain trees, shrubs, and
landscaping. Street trees in the ROW planter will also be required. Landscaping may
include hardscape such as decorative paving, rock outcroppings, fountains, plant
containers, etc. Minimum planting strip widths between the curb and sidewalk are
established according to the street development standards of RMC 4-6-060, Street
Standards. Street trees and, at a minimum, groundcover are to be located in this area
when present. Street trees shall be planted in the center of the planting strip between
the curb and the sidewalk at the following intervals; provided, that, where right-of-way
is constrained, irregular intervals and slight increases or decreases may be permitted or
required. Additionally, trees shall be planted in locations that meet required spacing
distances from facilities located in the right-of-way including, but not limited to,
underground utilities, streetlights, utility poles, traffic signs, fire hydrants, and
driveways; such spacing standards are identified in the City’s Approved Tree List.
Generally, the following spacing is required: i. Small-sized maturing trees: thirty feet
(30') on center; ii. Medium-sized maturing trees: forty feet (40') on center; and iii. Large-
sized maturing trees: fifty feet (50') on center. On-site street frontage landscaping is
required along SE 188th St minus driveways and pedestrian connections. Frontage
improvements to include street trees and a landscaping strip will be required along
SE 188th St. Nonresidential development in a residential zone requires a fifteen-foot
(15') wide partially sight-obscuring landscaped visual barrier, or ten-foot (10') wide
fully sight-obscuring landscaped visual barrier, is required along common property
lines. Interior and exterior parking lot landscaping would be required. A conceptual
landscape plan shall be provided with the land use application as prepared by a
registered Landscape Architect, or other licensed professional. Please be aware
that frontage improvements will be required.
Storm drainage facilities are required to comply with the minimum 15-foot perimeter
landscaping strip on the outside of the fence unless otherwise determined. Please
refer to landscape regulations RMC 4-4-070 for further general and specific landscape
requirements.
5. Significant Tree Retention: A review of COR Maps appears to show that there are
mature trees on the site. 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
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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, the project would
be required to provide a minimum tree density of 30 tree 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
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.
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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 4-4-130H.1.e 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. Based on the gross acreage of 2.21
acres a minimum of 66 tree credits (2.21 acres x 30 tree credits / acre = 66.3 tree
credits, rounded down to 66). A formal tree retention plan and tree retention
worksheet prepared by an arborist or landscape architect would be reviewed at the
time of the land use application.
6. Fences/Retaining Walls: The applicant would be required to show all existing fencing
on the submitted drawings. If the applicant intends to install any new fences or retaining
walls as part of this project, the location must be designated on the landscape plan or
grading plan. 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. The maximum height of any fence or retaining wall is 72-inches subject to further
height limitations in setbacks and clear vision areas noted in RMC 4-4-040D. A fence
shall not be constructed on top of a retaining wall unless the total combined height of the
retaining wall and the fence does not exceed the allowed height of a standalone fence.
For more information about fences and retaining walls refer to RMC 4-4-040.
7. Access/Parking: For areas outside of the Center Downtown (CD) zone, the enlargement
or remodeling of an existing building/structure by more than one-third (1/3) of area of the
building/structure requires compliance with the requirements of RMC 4-4-080, Parking,
Loading and Driveway Regulations. Access is proposed via an existing driveway from SE
188th St. Seventy (70) parking stalls are proposed within the expanded surface parking
area.
Driveway width shall not exceed an aggregate of 40 percent (40%) of the street frontage.
There shall be a minimum of 18 feet (18’) between driveway curb returns where there is
more than one (1) driveway on property under single ownership or control and used as
one premises. The width of any driveway shall not exceed 30 feet (30’). There shall be no
more than one (1) driveway for each 165 feet (165’) of street frontage serving any one
property. For each 165 feet (165’) of additional street frontage another driveway may be
permitted. Maximum driveway slope shall not exceed eight percent (8%). The
Administrator may allow a driveway to exceed eight percent (8%) slope but not more than
fifteen percent (15%) slope, upon proper application in writing and for good cause
shown, which shall include, but not be limited to, the absence of any reasonable
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alternative. To exceed fifteen percent (15%), a variance from the Administrator is
required.
Maximum slopes for parking lots shall not exceed eight percent (8%) slope. For surface
parking, a parking stall shall be a minimum of 20 feet (20') in length, except for parallel
stalls, measured along both sides of the usable portion of the stall and nine feet (9’) in
width (20’ x 9’). Each compact stall shall be eight and one-half feet in width and 16 feet
in length (8-1/2' x 16'); compact stalls shall not exceed 30 percent (30%) of the total
number of stalls. Accessible parking shall meet the minimum number of required stalls
shown below:
NUMBER OF ACCESSIBLE
PARKING SPACES
Total Parking
Spaces in Lot or
Garage
Minimum
Required
Number of
Accessible
Spaces
1 – 25 1
26 – 50 2
51 – 75 3
76 – 100 4
101 – 150 5
151 – 200 6
201 – 300 7
301 – 400 8
401 – 500 9
501 – 1,000 2% of total
spaces
Over 1,000 20 spaces plus 1
space for every
100 spaces, or
fraction thereof,
over 1,000
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The religious institutions use requires a minimum and maximum of one (1) parking stall
for every five (5) seats in the main auditorium is required. In no case shall there be less
than 10 spaces. For all existing institutions enlarging the seating capacity of their
auditoriums, one (1) additional parking space shall be provided for every five (5)
additional seats provided by the new construction. A twenty five percent (25%)
reduction or increase from the minimum or maximum number of parking spaces may
be granted for nonresidential uses through site plan review if the applicant can justify
the modification to the satisfaction of the Administrator. Justification might include, but
is not limited to, quantitative information such as sales receipts, documentation of
customer frequency, and parking standards of nearby cities. In order for the reduction
or increase to occur the Administrator must find that satisfactory evidence has been
provided by the applicant. Modifications beyond twenty five percent (25%) may be
granted per the criteria and process of RMC 4-9-250D.2.
The number of bicycle parking spaces shall be equal to 10 percent (10%) of the number
of off-street vehicle parking spaces required. Bicycle parking shall meet the
requirements found in RMC 4-4-080F.11. All off-street parking areas shall be paved
asphaltic concrete, cement or equivalent alternative material of a permanent nature as
approved by the Public Works Department. Surfacing treatments that provide increased
infiltration opportunities, such as permeable pavements, shall be used where feasible
and to the extent required by the Surface Water Design Manual.
Bicycle Parking – The number of bicycle parking spaces shall be equal to 10 percent
(10%) of the number of required off-street vehicle parking spaces for all uses except
attached dwellings.
Seventy (70) parking stalls are proposed. Based on the information provided it is
unclear how the proposal came to 70 parking stalls. Church capacity is listed as
350; it is unclear if this is the total number of seats provided for all the uses. If 350
seats are provided, then the minimum and maximum would be 70 stalls. Additional
parking would require review and approval through site plan review. It does not
appear that any bicycle parking is being shown. Compliance with access and
driveway requirements would be verified at the time of land use application.
8. Critical Areas: According to COR Maps there are no critical areas on the property.
9. Environmental Review: The proposal would require environmental review pursuant to
the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). The project is a change of use in an existing
building that exceeds 4,000 square feet and therefore WAC 197-11-800(3) does not
apply. An Environmental Checklist must be submitted with the proposal and the City’s
Environmental Review Committee is required to issue a Threshold Determination prior to
any issuance for permits on the site.
Conditional Use Permit: The conditional use permit would be evaluated per the criteria
below from RMC 4-9-030, Conditional Use Permits.
1. Consistency with Plans and Regulations: The proposed use shall be compatible
with the general goals, objectives, policies and standards of the Comprehensive
Plan, the zoning regulations and any other plans, programs, maps or ordinances
of the City of Renton.
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2. Appropriate Location: The proposed location shall not result in the detrimental
overconcentration of a particular use within the City or within the immediate area
of the proposed use. The proposed location shall be suited for the proposed use.
3. Effect on Adjacent Properties: The proposed use at the proposed location shall
not result in substantial or undue adverse effects on adjacent property.
4. Compatibility: The proposed use shall be compatible with the scale and
character of the neighborhood.
5. Parking: Adequate parking is, or will be made, available.
6. Traffic: The use shall ensure safe movement for vehicles and pedestrians and
shall mitigate potential effects on the surrounding area.
7. Noise, Light and Glare: Potential noise, light and glare impacts from the proposed
use shall be evaluated and mitigated.
8. Landscaping: Landscaping shall be provided in all areas not occupied by
buildings, paving, or critical areas. Additional landscaping may be required to
buffer adjacent properties from potentially adverse effects of the proposed use.
Submittal Items such as a parking study and traffic study will be needed.
Master Plan Review: The purpose of the master plan process is to evaluate projects at a
broad level and provide guidance for development projects with multiple buildings on a
single large site. The master plan process allows for analysis of overall project concepts
and phasing as well as review of how the major project elements work together to
implement City goals and policies. Master plan review allows for consideration and
mitigation of cumulative impacts from large-scale development and allows for
coordination with City capital improvement planning. Master plan review should occur
at an early stage in the development of a project, when the scale, intensity and layout of
a project are known. When master plan review is required, such plan shall incorporate
all commonly owned abutting lots; provided, that the total land area of said lots does not
exceed twenty-five (25) acres.
Master Plan Review is required for all phased development projects regardless of
zone. Including a detailed sequence plan with development phases and estimated
time frames, for phased projects will be needed. Each phase must be able to stand
on its own without reliance upon development of subsequent phases in order to
meet all development standards. See RMC 4-9-200, Master Plan and Site Plan
Review for full requirements.
10. Permit Requirements: The proposal would require a Hearing Examiner Conditional Use
Permit and Environmental Review (SEPA). The application would be reviewed within an
estimated time frame of 12 weeks. The 2025 fees would total $5,785.50 ($4,402.00
Hearing Examiner Conditional Use Permit + $1,856.00 Environmental Review (SEPA) =
$6,258.00). Each modification request is $299.00. A 5% technology fee added to the total
cost of the reviews 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
requirements can be found on the Conditional Use Permit Submittal Requirements
checklist and Environmental Review Submittal Requirements checklist. Other
informational applications and handouts can be found on the City’s Digital Records
Library. The City requires electronic plan submittal for all applications. Please refer to
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the City’s Electronic File Standards. The City requires electronic plan submittal for all
applications.
A handout listing all of the City’s Development related fees is available for your review at
2025-2026 Fee Schedule.
11. 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.
12. Public Information Sign: Public Information Signs are required for all Type II and Type III
Land Use Permits as classified by RMC 4-8-080. Public Information Signs are intended to
inform the public of 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.
13. 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 2025 impact fees are as
follows:
• A Fire impact fee $0.24 cents a square foot;
• The 2025 transportation impact fee is $4.79 per square foot of church.
A handout listing all of the City’s Development related fees is available for your review at
https://edocs.rentonwa.gov/Documents/Browse.aspx?id=8217302&dbid=0&repo=City
ofRenton
14. 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 Mariah Kerrihard, Associate Planner, at 425-430-7238 or
mkerrihard@rentonwa.gov to submit prescreen materials and subsequent land use
application.
15. Expiration: The final approval of the conditional use permit shall expire within two (2)
years of the date of approval unless otherwise approved by the Hearing Examiner. The
Hearing Examiner may grant one (1) extension of time for a maximum of one (1) year for
good cause shown. Building permits, licenses or land use permits required for the
operation of a Conditional Use Permit shall be applied for within two (2) years of the date
of Conditional Use Permit approval, unless an extended time frame is granted by the
Administrator or Hearing Examiner. A single two (2) year extension may be granted for
good cause by the Administrator. It is the applicant’s responsibility to monitor the
expiration dates.