HomeMy WebLinkAboutMeeting Summary (Cascade Climbing Gym)DEPARTMENT 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
Cascade Climbing Gym –
3208 NE Sunset Blvd (APN 0423059153)
PRE25-000093
May 8, 2025
Contact Information:
Planner: Nichole Perry, 425.430.7286
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 of it to any engineers, architects, and contractors who work on
the project. You will need to submit a copy of this packet when you apply for land use
and/or environmental permits.
Pre-screening: When you have the project application ready for submittal, call and
schedule an appointment with the project manager to have it pre-screened before
making all of the required copies.
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 1, 2025
TO: Nichole Perry, Assistant Planner
FROM: Corey Thomas, Lead Plans Review Inspector
SUBJECT: Cascade Climbing Club Comments
1. Fire impact fees do not apply to this change of use as the new use is less than the
previous use.
2. No fire flow or fire hydrant requirement changes for this proposed change of use.
3. The proposed change of use would trigger the installation of an approved fire alarm
system as the change of use exceeds the city threshold of 3,000 square feet. The
existing fire alarm system only monitors the fire sprinkler system and does not meet the
present requirements.
The existing buildings fire sprinkler system would be adequate for the new proposed
use. The existing fire sprinkler system may need to be altered and/or updated
depending on the proposed new structures/walls installed for the new use.
Separate plans and permits are required for the installation of the new fire alarm and
any fire sprinkler systems required changes. Plan review and permitting through the
Renton Regional Fire Authority.
4. Annual permits may be required for a place of assembly.
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
& ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE: May 5, 2025
TO: Nichole Perry, Associate Planner
FROM: Michael Sippo, Civil Engineer 3
SUBJECT: Engineering Comments for the Cascade Climbing Gym
3208 NE Sunset Blvd
PRE25-000129
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 Error! Reference source not found. Climbing Gym at
Error! Reference source not found. NE Sunset Blvd (APN 0423059153 ) and have the
following comments:
EXISTING CONDITIONS
The site is approximately 3.28 acres in size and is trapezoidal in shape. The existing site is
being used as strip-mall retail and contains multiple tenant spaces and the proposal will
occupy one of the current empty tenant spaces.
Water Water service is provided by the City of Renton. The site is in the City of Renton’s
service area in the Highlands 565 hydraulic pressure zone. There is an existing
looped 8” water main surrounding the existing building within the Sunset Plaza
Shopping Center Access Rd along the west, south, and east and north along NE
15th St that can deliver a maximum total flow capacity of 2,500, 1,850, 1,800, and
2,400 gallons per minute (GPM) respectively. (see Water plan no. W-046607 and
W-027001). The approximate static water pressure is 81 psi at the elevation of 376
feet. The site is located outside of an Aquifer Protection Area. The existing building
is served by 2” domestic water meter and 8” fire service at the rear of the building
accessed from NE 15th Pl connected to the existing onsite looped water main.
These meters may be reused for domestic and fire service use if sizing meets the
Uniform Plumbing Code sizing criteria for the proposed building fixtures count.
Sewer Wastewater service is provided by the City of Renton. There is an existing 8”-inch
PVC gravity wastewater main located within an easement along the site’s northern
property line (see City plan no. S-022101).
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Storm There are existing storm drainage systems in NE 13th St and NE 15th Pl (see City plan
no. SWP2703472). The existing property contains unmapped stormwater mains
and facilities that appear to tie into the mains located in NE 13th St and NE 15th Pl.
Runoff from the existing site includes 3 buildings and a large parking lot that drains
into the unknown onsite conveyance system. Runoff from the site sheet flows from
the east to west where it is collected in the onsite parking lot conveyance system.
Streets NE Sunset Boulevard is classified as a principal arterial street. Per the King County
Assessor’s Map, the existing right of way width for NE Sunset Boulevard varies from
95’ to 106’ along the project frontage. There is a 0.5’ curb and a 6’ sidewalk directly
behind the curb along the NE Sunset Boulevard frontage. NE 15th Pl is classified as
a residential access street. Per the King County Assessor’s Map, the existing right
of way width for NE 15th Pl is 60’. There are 0.5’ curbs and 5’ sidewalks directly
behind the curb along the street where it connects directly to the rear of the site.
CODE REQUIREMENTS
WATER
1. Based on the review of project information submitted for the pre-application
meeting, Renton Regional Fire Authority has determined that there is no change in
fire flow demand for the proposed development and that the existing hydrants are
sufficient.
2. Applicant to confirm if premise-isolation exists within the existing building. If none
exists, installation of a reduced pressure backflow assembly (RPBA) is required for
installation for water meters serving commercial/industrial use. The RPBA shall be
installed inside an above-ground heated enclosure per City standard plan no. 360.1.
The RPBA may be located inside the building if a drainage outlet for relief valve is
provided, and the location is pre-approved by the City Plan Reviewer and Water Utility
Department.
3. Applicant to confirm if there is an existing pressure reducing valve (PRV) downstream
of the existing water meter. If no PRV exists, a PRV is required for installation
downstream of the water meter to comply with both Uniform Plumbing Code and
Water Utility guidelines, which require individual PRVs when city water pressure
exceeds 80 psi.
4. Applicant to confirm if existing fire vault is a double check detector assembly (DCDA).
If existing backflow prevention device is a single check detector assembly, a DCDA is
required to replace the single check detector assembly per City standard plan no.
350.3.
5. No water system development charges and water meter charges are anticipated with
the application. If meter sizes are adjusted, additional charges may be warranted.
SEWER
1. The project is proposing to occupy an existing vacant tenant space with no onsite
upgrades. No system development charges are anticipated, however, if the
domestic water meter size is required to be upsized or additional meters are
Cascade Climbing Gym – PRE25-000129
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required as a result of the project, applicable SDC fees would be required. Credit
would be provided for the existing meter size.
SURFACE WATER
1. The project is currently proposing only minor exterior improvements for ADA access.
If exterior improvements are proposed as a portion of the building permit application
the following may be applicable.
a. A drainage report complying with the 2022 Renton Surface Water Design
Manual (RSWDM) will be required if construction is proposed exterior to the
existing building. Based on the City’s flow control map, the site falls within
the City’s Peak Rate Flow Control Standard (Matching Existing Conditions).
The site falls within the East Lake Washington drainage basin and John’s
Creek sub-basin. Refer to Figure 1.1.2.A – Flow chart to determine the type of
drainage review required in the RSWM. No drainage review shall be required
if there is no construction proposed exterior to the existing building or does
not meet the threshold for drainage review.
b. Erosion control measures to meet the City requirements may be required
during construction as needed.
2. If any exterior improvements are proposed with new impervious area, the 2025
Surface water system development fee is $0.94 per square foot of new impervious
surface, but no less than $2,350.00. Fees that are current will be charged at the time
of permit issuance. There is no storm water impact fee for replaced impervious
surface area.
TRANSPORTATION
1. As this project is proposing an interior remodel and no new construction or additions
valued at over $175,000, no street frontage improvements or right of way dedication
are required, however, if during Land-use and/or other agency reviews it is
determined that outside site and parking/lot improvements are required, the project
may become subject to further transportation review.
2. An accessible route of travel meeting American’s with Disabilities Act’s requirements
(ADA) from the public right of way to the working facilities is required and will be
reviewed in conjunction with the building permit submittal. The existing onsite ADA
parking and landings will also be reviewed. Additional parking spaces, restriping and
ramps may be required.
3. Since the project is proposing a change in use that may result in additional traffic, a
traffic study meeting City of Renton traffic study guidelines is required at the land-
use submittal. If the result of the study is more than 20 new trips in the AM or PM peak
hours, a traffic impact analysis will be required.
4. The development is subject to transportation impact fees. Fees will be assessed at
the time of a complete building permit application. The 2025 transportation impact
fee for net new pm peak hour person vehicle trips is $8,031.94 per trip.
GENERAL COMMENTS
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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. 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.
CityofRenton\Department Folders\Community and Economic Development (CED)\Current Planning\Pre-
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DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE: May 8, 2025
TO: Pre-Application File No. PRE25-000129
FROM: Nichole D. Perry, Associate Planner
SUBJECT: Cascade Climbing Gym
3208 NE Sunset Blvd (APNs 0423059153 and 0423059080)
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 is proposing to convert an existing commercial building at
3208 NE Sunset Blvd, Renton, WA 98056 (APNs 0423059153 and 0423059080) into a multi-
purpose climbing and fitness gym - Cascade Climbing Gym. The building is approximately
57,277 square feet and 28,631 square feet is proposed to be adapted for the gym’s use to
accommodate bouldering walls (16 ft max height), locker rooms, restrooms, a staff office,
yoga room, and a small co-working area. The proposed use includes installing custom-
fabricated bouldering walls, HVAC, lighting, plumbing, and improvements to the exterior for
signage, bike parking, and ADA accessibility. The existing parking lot provides 66 parking
spaces directly in front of the unit, including ADA-compliant stalls for the proposed use. No
vertical expansion is proposed, and the structure's height would remain under 20 feet to
comply with zoning regulations. The project does not involve any major off-site
improvements, with only minor work anticipated for ADA accessibility, utility upgrades, and
fire flow testing if required. The subject property covers 142,877 square feet (3.28 acres) and
is situated within the Center Village (CV) zoning district and the Commercial Mixed Use
Comprehensive Plan designation. According to City of Renton (COR) Maps, the site contains
regulated slopes >15% & <=40% (Sensitive).
Current Use: The site is currently developed with a vacant commercial building that was
previously used as a grocery store (Saar’s Super Saver Foods) and shares the building with
Goodwill. The existing structure is approximately 57,277 square feet, while the proposed
space to be utilized is 28,631 square feet and includes basic MEP infrastructure
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(mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) as well as a paved surface parking lot with 66 parking
stalls.
Zoning/Land Use Designation, and Overlays: The property is located within the Center
Village (CV) zoning designation. The Comprehensive Plan designation for the site is
Commercial Mixed Use (CMU), and it is located within the Highlands Community Planning
Area. The purpose of the Center Village Zone (CV) is to provide an opportunity for
concentrated mixed-use residential and commercial redevelopment designed to urban
rather than suburban development standards that supports transit-oriented development
and pedestrian activity. Use allowances promote commercial and retail development
opportunities for residents to shop locally. Uses and standards allow complementary, high-
density residential development, and discourage garden-style, multi-family development.
According to RMC 4-2-060, Zoning District Uses and Standards, New Indoor
Recreational Facilities are a permitted use within the CV zone. As defined in RMC 4-11-
040, Section E, a new indoor recreational facility is designed and equipped for the
conduct of sports and leisure-time activities within an enclosed space. Examples
include gymnasiums, amusement arcades, health and fitness clubs, indoor tennis and
racquetball courts, bowling alleys, and indoor swimming pools. This definition excludes
indoor sports arenas, auditoriums, and exhibition halls. The proposed project complies
with the zoning requirements for mixed-use and commercial development.
1. Development Standards:
Minimum Lot Size, Width and Depth – The submitted plans should show compliance with
the minimum lot size requirement of 25,000 square feet in the CV zone. There are no
specified minimum width or depth standards.
The site area of approximately 142,877 square feet (3.28 acres) and exceeds the
minimum lot size requirement. If any site modifications or lot boundary adjustments are
proposed, they must meet dimensional standards prior to building permit issuance.
Submitted plans would need to show compliance with the required lot size and
dimensional standard with the land use application.
Setbacks – The CV zone requires a 15-foot minimum front/secondary front yard setback
and a 20-foot maximum front/secondary front yard setback, with no rear or side setbacks
unless the site abuts a residential zone, in which case a 15-foot setback is required.
Since the proposal involves retaining the existing building, the applicant should
verify that any changes to the site layout or additions comply with these setback
requirements. Submitted plans would need to show the existing structures and any
future structures or additions to the existing building must comply with the required
setbacks at the time of formal land use application.
Building Height and Impervious Surface Coverage – The maximum permitted building
height in the CV zone is 50 feet except 70 feet for vertically mixed-use buildings
(commercial and residential). Heights may exceed the Zone’s maximum height with a
Conditional Use Permit. The maximum impervious surface coverage is 65% of the lot
area, or 75% if parking is provided within a building or an on-site parking garage. The
formal land use review will verify compliance with these standards.
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The subject site is located within the Airport influence area. Height is restricted in
this area by the FAR Part 77 surface area, as such the applicant shall verify at time
of land use application and building permit that the height of the proposed structure
does not penetrate the FAR Part 77 surface area. In addition, the applicant may be
required to submit a draft avigation easement with the land use application per RMC
4-3-020E.
The building height and coverage requirements would be verified at the time of
formal application if choosing to make building modifications. If the existing building
does not comply with the required setbacks for the CV zone. Any changes to the
building footprint would be required to meet all development standards in the CV
zone. See below for non-conforming requirements.
2. Refuse and Recycling Areas: Per RMC 4-4-090.E.3 for commercial, industrial and other
nonresidential developments, the property development standards require a minimum
of two (2) square feet per 1,000 square feet of building gross floor area for recyclables
deposit areas and a minimum of four (4) square feet per 1,000 square feet for refuse
deposit areas. A total minimum area of one hundred (100) square feet shall be provided
for recycling and refuse deposit areas. The exact total area required will depend on the
square footage of the existing buildings retained for the new use(s). The applicant should
provide a calculation of the refuse and recycling space requirements based on the gross
floor area of the existing structures, ensuring the designated areas meet the minimum
standards. Garbage dumpsters, refuse compactor areas, and recycling collection areas
must be fenced or screened. A six-foot (6') wall or fence shall enclose any outdoor refuse
or recyclables deposit area.
Refuse and recyclables deposit areas can be centralized or dispersed throughout the
site, but they must be easily accessible for users and collection trucks. The proposal
should also include details on the location and design of these areas to ensure
compliance with accessibility requirements. Verification of compliance would occur
during the formal land use review process.
3. Landscaping: Changes in the use of a property or remodel of a structure that requires
improvements equal to or greater than fifty percent (50%) of the assessed property
valuation requires landscaping. If the proposal requires landscaping, the plans will
need to comply with the landscaping requirements for all pervious areas within the
property boundaries Areas not covered by structures, parking, access, circulation, or
patios must be landscaped with native, drought-resistant vegetation. The project will
also need to provide ten feet (10') of on-site landscaping along all public street frontages,
with exceptions for walkways and driveways.
If the property requires landscaping improvements, a detailed landscape plan will
need to be submitted as part of the formal land use application, demonstrating
compliance with these standards and any additional requirements for buffering and
screening.
4. 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
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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, each new lot 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.
Priority Two: Healthy tree groupings whose associated undergrowth can be preserved;
other significant native evergreen or deciduous trees; and other significant non-native
trees.
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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. A formal tree retention plan and tree credit
worksheet prepared by an arborist or landscape architect would be required if the
proposal includes any expansion or addition of the existing building.
5. Screening: Screening is required for all surface-mounted and rooftop utility and
mechanical equipment as per RMC 4-4-095, Screening and Storage Height/Location
Limitations. The proposal should include elevations and details of the methods used for
screening any equipment if applicable. Screening measures should address visual
impact reduction for areas where vehicles or contractor equipment may be stored.
6. Fences/Retaining Walls: If the project includes fencing or retaining walls, their
locations must be clearly shown on the landscape plan and grading plan, including top
of wall and bottom of wall elevations. Any retaining wall that is four feet (4’) or taller
(measured from the footing to the top of the wall) will require a building permit. The
maximum allowable height for fences and retaining walls is 72 inches, subject to
additional height restrictions in setbacks and clear vision areas, as noted in RMC 4-4-
040D.
If the proposal includes a fence on top of a retaining wall, ensure that the total combined
height does not exceed the height limit for a standalone fence. The plans should also
consider screening requirements for any fenced yard areas and ensure an adequate
visual buffer.
7. Parking: Per RMC 4-4-080, the applicant must provide detailed parking information with
the formal land use application, including stall dimensions, drive aisle measurements,
and total parking calculations based on the actual square footage used for the mixed
use.
• Surface parking stalls have minimum dimensions of 9 feet x 20 feet, with compact
stalls measuring 8½ feet x 16 feet and parallel stalls measuring 9 feet x 23 feet.
• Compact spaces do not exceed 30% of the total spaces in surface parking areas.
• ADA-accessible stalls meet the required dimensions of 8 feet in width by 20 feet in
length, with an adjacent 8-foot-wide access aisle for van-accessible spaces. The number
of ADA stalls must align with the total parking provided.
• Bicycle Parking: Bicycle parking must be provided at a rate of 10% of the number of
required parking spaces. Depending on the scenario chosen and the total number of
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spaces, the applicant must ensure compliance with RMC 4-4-080F.11 for bicycle parking
standards.
8. Access/Driveways: Within the CV zone, parking, loading, and driveway regulations
specified in RMC 4-4-080 will apply, particularly if the project involves modifications to
the existing buildings or new construction. The 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 alternative. To exceed fifteen percent (15%), a variance
from the Administrator is required.
The primary public egress and ingress for the site appear to be off NE Sunset Blvd to
the southeast. The rear access point is from NE 15th Pl to the northwest. The formal
land use review will verify compliance with access standards, including the
adequacy of the driveways for fire access, loading areas, and general circulation.
The applicant will ensure that the proposed driveway design accommodates safe
access for both vehicle circulation and pedestrian safety.
9. Urban Design Regulations: The proposal requires compliance with the Urban Design
Regulations for District D in RMC 4-3-100. Design District D standards likely apply to the
exterior design of the business only. This could include facade treatments (materials,
colors, windows), landscaping and buffering requirements, parking lot standards. These
standards ensure compatibility with the commercial character of the area and address
the visual impact of the use. Per RMC 4-3-100.B.1 -
1. Applicability:
a. The following development activities shall be required to comply with the
provisions of this Section:
• Re-use of a nonconforming structure, for any purpose, that has been vacant
for more than one year;
• Exterior modifications such as facade changes, windows, awnings, signage,
etc., shall comply with the design requirements for the new portion of the
structure, sign, or site improvement.
• The building appears to have been vacant for more than a year based on site
photos, which requires the project to meet all UD standards.
The land use application must include a written narrative detailing how the project
meets each applicable urban design regulation. The applicant should refer to the
full Urban Design Regulations in RMC 4-3-100 and ensure all relevant guidelines
and standards are addressed in the land use application.
10. Street Pattern: The proposal will maintain the existing street pattern with the site plan
containing two access points. The primary access for the public is from NE Sunset Blvd
and the rear access from NE 15th Pl. No new streets or changes to the existing street
layout are proposed.
Further assessment would be needed to confirm that the driveway locations and
widths meet city standards and accommodate the anticipated traffic flow,
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particularly during peak hours of operation. Compliance with RMC standards
would be verified during the formal review process.
11. Critical Areas: The site contains sensitive regulated slopes (15-40%) located on the
northern and southeastern portion of the property. It is the applicant’s responsibility
to confirm if any additional critical areas are present on the site prior to submitting
a formal land use application.
12. Site Plan: Site plan review is required for all development in the CV zone. Per RMC 4-9-
200C.1, interior tenant improvements are exempt from site plan review.
13. Environmental Review: The vacant building totals 57,277 square feet and the proposed
space to be utilized is 28,631 square feet. The change of use proposal requires a SEPA
review due to the tenant space to be utilized being over 4,000 square feet. Compliance
with RMC 4-9-070 and WAC 197-11-800 will be reviewed at the time of formal land
use application.
14. Permit Requirements: The proposal will require SEPA environmental review. The land
use review would include public notice and a two-week public comment period. Once a
complete application is submitted and all fees are paid, a decision can be issued in
approximately 6 weeks. The 2025 SEPA review fee is $1,856.00. Each modification
request is $299.00. All fees are subject to change. All fees have a 5% Technology Fee
added to the total cost of the reviews would also be assessed at the time of land use
application. The primary permits would include:
• SEPA: Per RMC, RMC 4-9-070 contains procedures that implement the requirements
of the State Environmental Policy Act of 1971 (SEPA).
• Building Permits: Any modifications to existing structures or new construction will
require building permits. If the project includes retaining walls, fences, or outdoor
storage areas, separate permits may also be needed.
• Other Permits/Approvals: Additional permits may be required based on specific site
improvements, such as sign permit, grading permits for significant site work, or right-
of-way permits if street improvements are needed.
The applicant should ensure that all application materials and required plans are
submitted according to the City’s submittal requirements, and compliance with permit
conditions and mitigation measures will be verified during the formal review process.
Detailed information regarding the land use permit application submittal requirements
can be found on online under the Submittal Requirements documents. 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 the City’s Electronic File Standards.
15. 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.
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16. 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 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.
17. Impact Fees: In addition to standard building and construction fees, impact fees will be
required for the proposed redevelopment. These fees are subject to change, and the rates
in effect at the time of building permit issuance will apply. For informational purposes, the
2025 impact fees are as follows:
• Fire Impact Fee: Fire impact fees do not apply to this change of use as the new use
is less than the previous use.
• Transportation Impact Fee: Charged based on net new PM peak hour person vehicle
trips generated by the development.
The applicant should refer to the most up-to-date City of Renton Development Fee
Schedule for accurate impact fee rates and other development-related fees. It is
advisable to verify current rates during the building permit application process to ensure
accurate fee calculations.
18. Next Steps: When the formal application materials are complete, the applicant must
have the materials pre-screened prior to submitting the complete application package.
This step ensures that all required documents are in order and meet the City's
submission standards. Please contact Nichole Perry, Associate Planner, at 425-430-
7286 or nperry@rentonwa.gov to submit the pre-screen materials and for assistance
with the subsequent land use application.