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HomeMy WebLinkAboutORD 6160CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON, AMENDING 4-1-190;
CHAPTER 4-2 SECTIONS -020, -060, -080, -100, -110, -115, AND -116; 4-3-110;
CHAPTER 4-4 SECTIONS -015, -070, -080, -085, -090, -105, AND -155; CHAPTER 4-
7 SECTIONS -090, -140, AND -150; 4-9-030; CHAPTER 4-10 SECTIONS -020 AND -
050; AND, CHAPTER 4-11 SECTIONS —020, -030, -040, -180 AND -200 OF THE
RENTON MUNICIPAL CODE, AUTHORIZING CORRECTIONS, PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY, AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Washington State legislature found that in order to meet the goal of
1,000,000 new homes statewide by 2044, innovative housing policies will need to be adopted
and that increasing housing options that are more affordable to various income levels is critical
to achieving the state's housing goals; and
WHEREAS, in 2023 the Washington State legislature passed a series of housing and land
use bills aimed at expanding housing options, increasing housing inventory, and incentivizing
affordable housing, including House Bill (HB) 1110 and HB 1337, related to middle housing and
accessory dwelling units; and
WHEREAS, the associated state legislative mandates make it necessary to amend Renton
Municipal Code to ensure local development regulations comply with state requirements and
implement policy directives; and
WHEREAS, this matter was duly referred to the Planning Commission for investigation
and study, and the matter was considered by the Planning Commission; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to RCW 36.70A.106, on March 17, 2025, the City notified the State
of Washington of its intent to adopt amendments to its development regulations; and
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on April 2, 2025, considered all
relevant matters, and heard all parties in support or opposition, and subsequently forwarded a
recommendation to the City Council;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON, DO
SECTION I. All portions of the Renton Municipal Code in this ordinance that are not
shown in strikethrough and underline edits or are not explicitly repealed herein remain in effect
and unchanged.
SECTION II. Subsection 4-1-190.G.2.d of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
2. School Impact Fees:
d. Classification by Dwelling Type: Separate fees shall be calculated for single
family and multi -family dwellings, and separate student generation rates must be
determined by each school district for each type of dwelling. For purposes of this
Section, mobile homes shall be treated as single family dwellings; duplexes aR
SECTION III. Subsections 4-2-020.A through 4-2-020.1 of the Renton Municipal Code are
amended as follows:
A. GENERAL:
Approval of projects i.^ the Z^"^sis contingent upon the determination that
the proposed developments are consistent with the purpose of the zone and the
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
purpose and intent of the land use designations and guiding policies of the
Comprehensive Plan.
The Comprehensive Plan Land Use Element policies for each corresponding
zone classification and all the Elements of the Comprehensive Plan shall be used
together with the purpose statements for each zone and land use map designation
set forth in the following sections to guide interpretation and application of land
use regulations within the zones and designations and any changes to the range
of permitted uses within each zone through amendments to the code.
B. RESOURCE CONSERVATION ZONE (RC):
The Resource Conservation RC Zone (RG) ;s established to ^ ide ^ YeFy IeW
applies to lands with significant environmental
constraints which are not appropriate for urban development, lands suitable for
environmental conservation or restorations, and allows for continued production
of food and agricultural products, and natural resource extraction for resource
conservation. RC zoning implements the Residential Low Densitv and EmDlovment
Area land use designations. No minimum density is required.
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
The ReSe Ee rA-Aser atieR RC Zone is also intended to provide separation
between areas of more intense urban uses and critical lands or agricultural uses;
encourage or preserve very low -density residential uses; reduce the intensity of
uses in accordance with the extent of environmentally sensitive areas such as
floodplains, wetlands and streams, aquifers, wildlife habitat, steep slopes, and
other geologically hazardous areas; allow for small-scale farming to commence or
continue; and provide viable uses within urban separators. The RC Zone
implements the Residential Low Density land use designation.
C. RESIDENTIAL-1 (R-1):
The Residential-1 R-1 Zone O --1 applies to lands with significant
environmental constraints, which may have the potential for development at a
level of intensity that esta ,io,-h ed t Ia ide and Ia teet Suitable „ R+1;
.gher„ Ihm. ed- residential d,,,,elepm efA will not compromise critical areas. 4-FS
desigRati ,R. The zone provides for suburban estate single family and clustered
single family residential dwellings, at a maximum density of ones dwelling unit
per net acre, and allows for small scale farming associated with residential use.
Density bonus provisions, of up to eighteen (18) dwelling units per acre, are
intended to allow assisted living to develop with higher densities within the zone.
It is further intended to protect critical areas, provide separation between
neighboring jurisdictions through designation of urban separators as adopted by
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
the Countywide Policies, and prohibit the development of incompatible uses that
may be detrimental to the residential or natural environment. The R-1 Zone
imDlements the Residential Low Densitv land use designation.
D. RESIDENTIAL-4 (R-4):
The Residential-4 R-4 Zone O�-4 applies to lands suitable for low -density
residential uses and Drovides transition between rural designation zones and
higher intensity residential zones. To expand the variety of housing options, the
R-4 Zone allows for both single-family development and middle housing. The R-4
Zone implements the Residential Low Density land use designation. ;s P-Stabi;she4
E. RESIDENTIAL-6 (R-6):
The Residential-6 R-6 Zone{R-E4 is established for single family dwellingsand
allows middle housing where there is land suitable for infill and larger lot
development at a moderate density. The R-6 Zone ;5; ;nte—n -„,- t ;,.,.,ni,,,, epv
implements the Residential Medium Density CampFeheR-;;re—P'A-.P land use
designation. The ° ra ;zApp .hews a f theee (9) to six (6) d,. elliRg ,nits peF
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
F. RESIDENTIAL-8 (R-8):
The Residential-8 R-8 Zone �} ;s established feF single family r sideRtial
applies to lands suitable for moderate -density residential uses, includiniz sinile-
family and middle housing, where there is opportunity to reinvest in existing
single-family residential neighborhoods through infill development or the
development of new residential plats. It ;r ; t-p—n - ,- + ;,,.,pler eRt implements the
Residential Medium Density CempFeheRSOVP WAR land use designation.
G. RESIDENTIAL MANUFACTURED HOME PARK (RMH):
The Residential Manufactured Home Park RMH Zone (RMlW) is established to
promote development that i-s maintains a single family i4 character, expands the
variety of housing options, and protects established manufactured home
parks. a R d d evened tee; fey -A C--herEeaA la.nd-teRenGY. StaedaFdaefAsa
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
YaFiet housing typesavailable withiR t#e-6+t The RMH Zone
implements the Residential Low Density, Residential Medium Density, and the
Residential High Density land use designations.
H. RESIDENTIAL-10 (R-10):
The Residential-10 R-10 Zone (R-10) is established for high -density
residential development that will provide a mix of residential styles including small
lot detached dwellings or attached dwellings such as townhouses and small-scale
flats. Development promoted in the zone is intended to increase opportunities for
detached dwellings as a percent of the housing stock, as well as allow some small-
scale attached housing choices and to create high -quality infill development that
increases density while maintaining the single --family character of the existing
neighborhood. [-,_„ ,_„R,-a+*,,,- Fange f.-„m fiYe (5) to ten (19) d..,el"A
bmits peF Ret a6Fe. The zone serves as a transition to higher density multi -family
zones. The R-10 Zone implements the Residential High Density land use
designation.
I. RESIDENTIAL-14 (R-14):
The purpose of the Residential-14 R-14 Zone (R-14) is to encourage
development, and redevelopment, of residential neighborhoods that provide a
mix of detached and attached dwelling structures organized and designed to
combine characteristics of both typical single family and small-scale multi -family
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
Structure size is intended to be limited in terms of bulk and scale so that the
various unit types allowed in the zone are compatible with one another and can
be integrated together into a quality neighborhood. Project features are
encouraged, such as yards for private use, common open spaces, and landscaped
areas that enhance a neighborhood and foster a sense of community. Civic and
limited commercial uses may be allowed when they support the purpose of the
designation. The R-14 Zone implements the Residential High Density land use
designation.
SECTION IV. Section 4-2-060 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as shown in
Exhibit A.
SECTION V. Subsection 4-2-080.A.7 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
7. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) ewe are allowed as an accessory use to a
detached single family dwelliRg permitted residential uses or a principal building
actively operated with a non-residential use by a religious institution or social
service organization. ADWs shall be consisteRt with the architectural character of
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
pFepeky title that the —e er viill QEewpy the site, and beaFiAg—the RAt;1� *;ZPd
When ADUs are proposed as accessory uses to nonresidential uses, the
following shall apply:
a. All proposals shall require a Conditional Use Permit (see RMC 4-9-030J)
prior to building permit issuance.
b. The maximum number of ADUs accessory to an allowed nonresidential
use shall not exceed a maximum of three (3) units. Aggregate ADU size is limited
to three thousand (3,000) square feet and one thousand (1,000) square feet per
unit.
c. Except for when an ADU location is proposed in the rear yard of the
principal building, the setback requirement adopted for single-family residential
development shall apply.
d. If a primary residential structure is present or proposed, ADU
development shall adhere to RMC 4-2-110C.
SECTION VI. Subsection 4-2-080.A.32 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
32. mod- Cottage house development shall be subiect to the standards of
RMC 4-2-110G. Develoament Standards for Cottaize House Develoament.
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
SECTION VII. Subsection 4-2-080.A.50 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
50. Manufactured homes shall be allowed at a maximum of one (1) Der lot and
only if in compliance with the Residential Design and Open Space Standards in
RMC 4-2-115, as it exists or may be amended.
SECTION VIII. Section 4-2-100 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as follows:
4-2-100 ZONING DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS TABLES:
A. STANDARDS ESTABLISHED:
The following tables contain density, dimension standards, and other
Iim s standards for the various ZeRes zonin.R designations. Additional
development requirements found in these tables not related to zoning will also
apply.
B. TABLES:
There are six fe* (64) separate tables dealiRg with addressing the following
general land use categories and zeees zoning designations:
1. RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY AND MEDIUM DENSITY ZONING
DESIGNATIONS (RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, & R-8, R 10 R 14RMP)
2. RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY ZONING DESIGNATIONS (R-10. R-14. RMF
& RMF-2
3. RESIDENTIAL MANUFACTURED HOME PARK&ZONING DESIGNATION
4. COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS (CN, CV, CA, CD CC), GO Q UC-1
& UC-2)_
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
5. COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS (CD. CO. & COR
6. INDUSTRIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS (IL, IM, & IH)
C. INTERPRETATION OF TABLES:
Development standards are listed under each applicable hea, iRg and *"^
Ze,R.��-^.= 'i-qed—a t-he '^4* ^{ ^^e"--aArda.rr' zone. The table cells contain the
minimum and, in some cases, maximum requirements of the zone. The small
numbers (superscript) in a cell indicate additional onditions or
detailed information which is not able to fit in the table format. A blank cell
indicates there are no specific requirements.
SECTION IX. Sections 4-2-110 and 4-2-110A of the Renton Municipal Code are amended
as shown in Exhibit B-1.
SECTION X. Sections 4-2-110B and 4-2-110C of the Renton Municipal Code are repealed
in their entirety and replaced to read as shown in Exhibit B-2.
SECTION XI. Section 4-2-110D of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as shown in
Exhibit B-3.
SECTION XII. Sections 4-2-110E and 4-2-11OF of the Renton Municipal Code are repealed
in their entirety and replaced to read as shown in Exhibit B-4.
SECTION XIII. Section 4-2-11OG of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as shown in
Exhibit B-5.
SECTION XIV. Chapter 4-2 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended to add new Sections
4-2-110H and 4-2-1101 as shown in Exhibit B-6.
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
SECTION XV. Section 4-2-115 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as shown in
Exhibit C incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION XVI. Section 4-2-116 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as shown in
Exhibit D incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION XVII. Subsection 4-3-110.E.5.a.i of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
i. The percentage of forest/vegetation coverage may be increased to qualify for
the density bonus allowed in RMC 4-'�E4-2-1101.
SECTION XVIII. Subsection 4-4-015.E.5 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
5. No structures other than allowed in RMC ^-'�0 4-2-110.E, Aeeesse Fy
Structures Develoament Standards for Detached Accessory Buildings, are
permitted.
SECTION XIX. Subsection 4-4-070.C.2 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
2. The following uses are exempt from all but the maintenance and street tree
requirements of this Section:
a. Single Family Building PeFn;mts: Single family residential building perm#�,
ba. Residential Subdivisions: Those yards not abutting a public street, or
private street, or shared driveway aFe exempt frAem i ,n��, ,n„ r „lati RS;
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
eb. VahWo Sales Parking: Non -perimeter portions of vehicle sales display
areas are exempt;
and
QIc. StWage Lots: Non -perimeter portions of storage lots, see RMC 4-4-120;
ed. Those alterations or small additions determined by the Community and
Economic Development Administrator not to warrant improvements to the entire
site.
SECTION XX. Subsection 4-4-080.B.3 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
3. Plans Required: Where off-street parking is required, except for single family
dwellings and middle housing, a plan shall be submitted for approval by the
Building DepaFtmeRt Development Services Division. The plan must be
accompanied by sufficient proof of ownership that indicates the spaces
contemplated will be permanent.
SECTION XXI. Subsection 4-4-080.E.2.a.i of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
a. When Permitted:
i. If sufficient parking is not available on the premises of the use, a private
parking area may be provided off _site, except for single-family and twe (" f"'^" y
dwellings in the RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, and R-8 zones. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs
may utilize off -site private parking area if parking cannot be accommodated on
site.
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
SECTION XXII. Subsection 4-4-080.F.1 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
1. Maneuvering Space/Use of Public Right -of -Way: Maneuvering space shall be
completely off the right-of-way of any public street except for parking spaces
provided for single family dwellings and duplexesmiddle housing. Alleys shall not
be used for off-street parking and loading purposes, but may be used for
maneuvering space. Parallel parking stalls shall be designed so that doors of
vehicles do not open onto the public right-of-way.
SECTION XXIII. Subsection 4-4-080.F.7 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
7. Residential Parking Location Requirements:
a. °RG, R-1, and R-4-Zones RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, and R-14 Zones: For lots
abutting an alley, all parking areas and garages (detached or attached) must occur
at the rear or side of the building, and all vehicular access shall be taken from the
alley; no parking areas, driveways, or garages are permitted in the area between
the front lot line and the front building line.
For apartments, when alley access is not available, parking must be located in the
rear vard. side vard. or underground. unless it is determined throuizh the
modification process for site development plan exempt proposals or the site
development plan review process for non-exempt proposals, that parking may be
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
allowed in the front vard or that underbuildinR DarkinR (ground level of a
residential structure) should be permitted.
See additional requirements under RMC 4-2-115, Residential Design and Open
Space Standards, and RMC 4-4-085, Parking of Vehicles on Residential Property.
a.rea-"etynreeA. the fre..t Iet-I the -Bent buildi^g IiRej PaFl(iRgTeas-Aa
.,r.,,,ided it the r.,a.-. and area fer P.,., unit when alley access available
Per flats, when alley access is not available, parl(iRg should be located iR the reaF
frSl�T
rc�icw �pr�vees� ,r exempt proposals, -,long may be alle .,ed On the
��% A �- �-
d-.-RMF Zones:
i. For Lots Abutting an Alley: All parking shall be provided in the rear yard
area for any unit, and access shall be taken from the alley.
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
ii. For Lots Not Abutting an Alley: No portion of covered or uncovered
parking shall be located between the primary structure and the front property
line. Parking structures shall be recessed from the front facade of the primary
structure a minimum of two feet (2').
SECTION XXIV. Subsection 4-4-080.F.8.c through d. of the Renton Municipal Code
is amended as follows:
c. Compact Parking Stall Size and Maximum Number of Compact Spaces:
i. Stall Size — Surface/Private Garage/Carport: Each stall shall be eight and
one-half feet in width and sixteen feet in length (8-1/2' x 16').
ii. Stall Size — Structured Parking: A parking stall shall be a minimum of seven
feet, six inches (7'6") in width. A parking stall shall be a minimum of twelve feet
(12') in length, measured along both sides for stalls designed at less than forty five
degrees (45o). A stall shall be a minimum of thirteen feet (13') in length, for stalls
designed at forty five degrees (45') or greater.
iii. Maximum Number of Compact Spaces Outside of the UC Zones: Compact
parking spaces shall not account for more than:
(a) Designated employee parking — not to exceed forty percent (40%).
(b) Structured parking — not to exceed fifty percent (50%).
c) All other uses — not to exceed thirty percent (30%).
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
iv. Maximum Number of Compact Spaces in the UC Zones: The maximum
number of compact spaces shall not exceed fifty percent (50%).
d. Tandem Parking: Tandem parking is allowed for parking spaces reserved
exclusively for a specific dwelling unit. detached single family residential and
townhouse developments. If tandem parking is provided the following standards
shall apply:
i. Stall length shall conform to the standards of this subsection F8; and
ii. A restrictive covenant or other device acceptable to the City will be required
to assign tandem parking spaces to the exclusive use of specific dwelling units,
unless the parking spaces are used exclusively for a detached, single-family home.
Enforcement of tandem parking spaces shall be provided by the property owner,
property manager, or homeowners' association as appropriate.
SECTION XXV. Subsection 4-4-080.F.10.e of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
shown in Exhibit E incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION XXVI. Subsection 4-4-080.G.3 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended
as follows:
3. Marking Requirements: All parking areas other than those for single family
residential and '"duplex d.., middle housing shall have stalls marked and
access lanes clearly defined, including directional arrows to guide internal
circulation.
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
a. All entrances and exits shall be designated as such by markings on the
parking lot pavement in addition to any signs which may be used as entrance and
exit guides.
b. All markings are to be of commercial traffic paint or equal material and are
to be maintained in a legible condition.
c. All accessible (Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA), compact and guest
parking spaces shall be marked.
SECTION XXVII. Subsection 4-4-080.1.2.b of the Renton Municipal Code is amended
as follows:
b. All Other Uses:
i. The location of ingress and egress driveways shall be subject to approval of
the Department under curb cut permit procedures.
ii. ii. Driveways shall not be closer than five feet (5') to any property line
(except as allowed under subsection 19 of this Section, Joint Use Driveways).
iii. There shall be a minimum of eighteen feet (18') between driveway curb
returns where there is more than one driveway on property under single
ownership or control and used as one premises.
SECTION XXVIII.
is amended as follows:
Subsection 4-4-080.1.3.b through c of the Renton Municipal Code
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
b. Single Family and Duplex Middle Housing Uses: Along the street
frontage, T#e the maximum width of single -loaded garage driveways shall not
exceed nine feet (9'), and the maximum width of double -loaded garage driveways
shall not exceed sixteen feet (16'). Within the property boundary, the driveway
may expand beyond the maximum allowed width, provided that the minimum
drivewav angle is met in conformance with subsection 15 of this Section, and the
driveway width does not exceed forty percent (40%) of the street frontage. 4—a
c. All Other Uses:
i. Driveway width (aggregate width if more than one driveway exists) shall
not exceed forty percent (40%) of the street frontage.
ii. The width of any driveway shall not exceed thirty feet (30') exclusive of
the radii of the returns or the taper section, the measurement being made parallel
to the centerline of the street roadway.
SECTION XXIX. Subsection 4-4-080.1.6.a of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
6. Driveway Grades — Maximum Based Upon Land Use:
a. Single Family and Two (2) F"Middle Housing Uses: Maximum
driveway slopes shall not exceed fifteen percent (15%); provided, that 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
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
entering public or private streets, alleys, sidewalks, and/or pedestrian pathways.
To exceed fifteen percent (15%), a variance from the Administrator is required.
SECTION XXX. Subsection 4-4-080.1.8 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
8. Two (2) Track Driveway Design: For single-family and middle housing
lots, driveways may provide a pervious strip in the center in order to reduce the
impervious surface of driveways. A two (2) track driveway does not allow for an
increase in allowed driveway width.
SECTION XXXI. Subsection 4-4-085.D of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
D. GENERAL:
1.Obstruction of Right -of -Way: It shall be a violation of this Section for a
vehicle to be parked in such a manner that it intrudes into the public right-of-way.
2. Disabled or Unlicensed Vehicles and Boats: It is unlawful for any person to
keep, store or park, or to permit any other person to keep, store or park, any
disabled vehicle or boat, or unlicensed vehicle or boat, on any residentially zoned
property within the City unless that vehicle or boat is stored and parked outside
public view within a fully enclosed building at all times. Vehicles and boats which
are kept on site and outside of an enclosed building shall be operational and
currently registered.
3. Impermissible Parking Locations: Except for recreational vehicles and
commercial vehicles being used for development activity pursuant to a valid City-
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
issued permit, all motor vehicles shall be parked on a lawfully established
driveway or an approved impervious surface. All new driveways shall conform to
the Darkina location reauirements saecified in RMC 4-4-080F.7. Residential
Parking Location Requirements. A separate violation of this Section shall be
deemed to have occurred when, after issuance of a citation, twenty four (24) or
more consecutive hours passes and the offending vehicle remains in an
impermissible location, regardless of whether or not the vehicle has been
relocated from the original location. For the purpose of this Section, driveways
consisting of compacted dirt and/or gravel established prior to the effective date
of this Section shall be considered a permissible parking location.
4. Maximum Number of Vehicles per Lot: A maximum of four (4) vehicles, not
including motorcycles or mopeds, may be parked on a lot unless vehicles in excess
of the allowed number are kept within an enclosed building. Additional vehicles
may be allowed if:
a. More than four (4) licensed drivers reside at the same address, an
additional motor vehicle for each licensed driver over four (4) may be parked at
that particular address, provided that each licensed driver and said vehicle are
registered to that same address; or
b. An additional vehicles permit is obtained (see RMC 4-9-105).
eSta-blfshed stFuetuFes aPA ^&,The lot contains more than one (1) leizal
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
established dwelling unit. In such cases. the maximum number of vehicles allowed
is calculated based on the number and type of dwelling units, as provided in RMC
►WAMI NG11
SECTION XXXII: Section 4-4-090 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as follows:
4-4-090 REFUSE AND RECYCLABLES STANDARDS:
A. APPLICABILITY:
�rrersrre��r_. --rwes�r.�r:�i� . . �rr:�!ri
„clabl s ; plia G- vVifth this S cti.en. The provisions of this Section shall
apply to all new and infill residential, commercial, and industrial development, as
well as other nonresidential uses, reauirinR the establishment of on -site refuse
a-R4 recyclables, and compostables deposit areas, as well as designated collection
points for collection and dispesal of refuse, recyclablesiffg, and compostables.
Q—GENERAL REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO ALL USES: (EXC€PTSIAIQI=€
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
1. Dimensions: Dimensions of the refuse, andrecyclables, and
compostables deposit areas shall be of sufficient width and depth to enclose
containers f^.r ref -Se -^d Feeyelabl and to allow easy access.
2.6eeatie;Tin Sethack OF Landscape —Areas RrehibTtedlmpact on
Surrounding Areas: Containers for refuse, recyclables, and compostables shall be
located so that thev have minimal impact on residents and their neiAbors and se
3. Special Setbacks from Residential Properties: f-seRefuse,
ap4-recyclables, and compostables deposit areas and collection points associated
with non-residential uses shall not be located within fifty feet (50') of a lot zoned
residential, except by approval through the site development plan review process,
or through the modification process if exempt from site development plan review.
4. Obstruction Prohibited: Collection points shall be located in a manner
so that hauling trucks do not obstruct pedestrian or vehicle traffic on -site, or
project into any public right-of-way.
5. Collocation Encouraged: When possible, the recyclables and
compostables deposit areas -nd- G^"eGtieR pei tS shall be located near gaFbage
refuse ^^"l^r*'o^n deposit areas to encourage their use.
6. Signage Required: Refuse, recyclables, and compostables deposit
areas shall be identified by signs not exceeding two (2) square feet.
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ORDINANCE NO. 6160
7. Containment in Zone 1 Wellhead Protection Areas: Containment shall
be provided if the site infiltrates to a Zone 1 Wellhead Protection Area.
8. Architectural Design Consistent with Primary Structure: Architectural
design of any structure enclosing an outdoor refuse, or recyclables, or
compostables deposit area or any building primarily used to contain a refuse,
recyclables, or compostables deposit area shall be consistent with the design of
the primary structure(s) on the site as determined by the Administrator.
vA;here ZeAiRg Cede feRns eeiRfliet with the six feet (6') wall Ar fcnc^c
MVEREMAM
Minimum Gate Opening and Minimum Vertical Clearance: Enclosures
for outdoor refuse, recyclables, or compostables deposit areas/collection
points and separate buildings used primarily to contain a refuse, recyclables, or
compostables deposit area/collection point shall have gate openings at least
twelve feet (12') wide for haulers. In addition, the gate opening for any separate
building or other roofed structure used primarily as a refuse, recyclables, or
B-24
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
compostables deposit area/collection point shall have a vertical clearance of at
least eleven feet (11'), but no more than fourteen feet (14').
4410. Weather Protection: Weather protection of refuse, -a -Rd recyclables,
and compostables shall be ensured by using weather -proofed containers or by
providing a roof over the storage area.
1211. Approval of Screening Detail Plan Required: A screening detail plan
must be approved by the Development Services Division prior to the issuance of
building or construction permits.
C. SINGLE-FAMILY, MIDDLE HOUSING, AND COTTAGE HOUSE DEVELOPMENT
— ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR DEPOSIT AREAS AND COLLECTION
AR€ASPOINTS:
1. The refuse.—and recvclables, and compostables deposit areas and
collection points for single-family dwellings, middle housing, and cottage house
developments shall be aaaortioned, located, and designed as follows:
a. Storage Sspace: Storage space for refuse, recyclables, and
compostables carts must be Drovided either within a garage, accessory structure
or outside.
i. Storage within a garage must be appropriately sized to
accommodate both vehicles and carts for refuse,—,-H-,d recyclables, and
compostablesig -eaft-s. Storage space for carts must measure at least two feet by
six feet (2' x 6') floor area and sixty inches (60") high. Indoor storage must be
identified on floor Dlans.
B-25
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
ii. Storage located outside must measure at least two feet by six
feet (2' x 6') in size and be located on the same lot as the dwelling. If the dwelling
is part of a unit lot subdivision, storage may be located elsewhere on the parent
site.
b. Screening: Outdoor storage must be adequately screened from
public view, made of wood, masonry, or ornamental metal.
c. Collection Point: Space for carts to be placed on pick-up day must be
sufficient to accommodate the number of carts expected to be serviced on pick-
up day. There shall be a direct connection constructed of a smooth surface that
allows carts to be smoothly rolled to the street or other specified
hK4t m4collection point.
d. Parking Space Obstruction Prohibited: Refuse, recyclables, and
compostables ,I< carts may not obstruct a required parking space at any
time.
e. Storage in Required Parking Space Prohibited: Refuse,—a4+d
recycleable, and compostables carts may not be stored in the minimum required
parking spaces.
f. Maximum Number of Deposit Areas and Collection AreaPoints: Lots
with multiple dwelling units shall have a maximum of one (1) refuse, recyclables,
and compostables deaosit areas aer building with no more than two (2) refuse
af�d- recyclables, and compostables collection points.
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
D. MULTI -FAMILY DEVELOPMENTS - ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR
DEPOSIT AREAS AND COLLECTION AR€ASPOINTS:
1. The refuse,-4p,4 recyclables, and compostables deposit areas and
collection points for multi -family residences shall be apportioned, located, and
designed as follows:
a. Minimum Size: A minimum of one and one-half (1-1/2) square feet
per dwelling unit in multi -family residences shall be provided for recyclables
deposit areas, except where the development is participating in a City -sponsored
program in which individual recycling carts are used for curbside collection. A
minimum of three (3) square feet per dwelling unit shall be provided for refuse
deposit areas. A total minimum area of eighty (80) square feet shall be provided
for refuse and recyclables deposit areas.
b. Minimum Number of Deposit Areas: There shall be a minimum of
one refuse, recyclables, and compostables deposit area/collection point
for each project. There shall be at least one deposit area/collection point for
every thirty (30) dwelling units.
c. Dispersal of Deposit Areas: The required refuse, -a -Rd recyclables,
and compostables deposit areas shall be dispersed throughout the site when a
residential development comprises more than one building.
d. Location within Structures Possible: Refuse -ate recyclables, and
compostables deposit areas and collection points may be located in separate
buildings/structures or outdoors. Refuse-aa4 recyclables, and compostables
B-27
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
deposit areas may be located within residential buildings, providing that they are
in compliance with the Uniform Fire Code, and that collection points are easily and
safely accessible to hauling trucks. Refuse, recyclables, and compostables deposit
areas and collection points shall not be located in any required setback or
landscape areas.
e. Screening of Deposit Areas: Garbage, refuse compactor areas, and
recyclables e^'�ndeposit areas must be fenced or screened so that they are
not visible to the general public. A six-foot (6') wall or fence shall enclose any
outdoor deposit area for re . In
cases where Zoning Code fencing provisions conflict with the six-foot (6') wall or
fence requirement, the Zoning Code provisions shall rule. Refuse,-a+4recvclables,
and compostables deposit areas located in industrial developments that are
greater than one hundred feet (100') from residentially zoned property are
exempted from this wall or fence requirement.
ef. Maximum Distance from Building Entrance: Refuse,and
recyclables, and compostables deposit areas and collection points shall be located
no more than two hundred feet (200') from a common entrance of a residential
building, allowing for easy access by residents and hauling trucks.
fg. Site Plan Location: If refuse, recyclables, or compostables
containers are located within a building, then the space which these facilities
utilize as well as parking space for refuse/recyclable/compostable container -
towing vehicles must be clearly shown on plans submitted to the City.
.,]
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
Additionally, an exterior space must be provided to accommodate the container(s)
on refusejrecyclables, and compostables pick-up days.
gh. Parking Space Obstruction Prohibited: Refuse, aPA—recyclables
and compostables containers; and associated refuse/recyclables/compostables
container -towing vehicles may not obstruct a required parking space at any time.
hi. Storage in Required Parking Space Prohibited: Refuse—apd
recyclables, and compostables containers; and associated
refuse/recyclable/compostables container -towing vehicles may not be stored in
the minimum required parking spaces for a development.
2. Multi -family residences using thirty-five (3532) gallon garbage carts or
smaller, when allowed, must meet all of the following requirements:
a. Storage Space: Storage space for carts must be provided either
within th-e-a garage or outside.
i. Storage within a garage must be appropriately sized to
accommodate both vehicles and refuse -ate recyclables, and compostablesig
carts. Storage space for carts must measure at least two feet by six feet (2' x 6')
floor area and sixty inches (60") high. This space must be identified on floor plans.
ii. Storage located outside must measure at least two feet by six feet (2' x 6') in
size and be located on the same lot as the dwelling in a side or rear yard.
b. Screening: Outdoor storage must be adequately screened from
public view and; made of wood, masonry, or ornamental metal. A six-foot (6') wall
or fence shall enclose any outdoor refuse, recyclables, or compostables deposit
B-29
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
area. In cases where Zoning Code fencing Drovisions conflict with the six-foot (6'
wall or fence requirement, the Zoning Code provisions shall rule.
c. Pick Up ' ecatua^Collection Point: Space for carts to be placed for
collection on garbage pick-up day must be sufficient to accommodate the number
of carts expected to be serviced on pick-up day. There shall be a direct connection
constructed of a smooth surface that allows carts to be smoothly rolled to the
street or other specified pick up Ieea+ ^^collection point.
d. Parking Space Obstruction Prohibited: Refuse, recyclables, and
compostablese carts may not obstruct a required parking space at any time.
e. Storage in Required Parking Space Prohibited: Refuse —aid
recyclables, and compostablese carts may not be stored in the minimum required
parking spaces.
E. COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL, AND OTHER NONRESIDENTIAL
DEVELOPMENTS — ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR DEPOSIT AREAS AND
COLLECTION AR€A�SPOINTS:
The refuse, recyclables, and compostables deposit areas and collection points
for commercial, industrial, and other nonresidential developments shall be
apportioned, located, and designed as follows:
1. Location: Refuse, recyclables, and compostables deposit areas and
collection points may be allocated to a centralized area, or dispersed throughout
the site, in easily accessible areas for both users and hauling trucks. Refuse,
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
recyclables, and compostables deposit areas and collection points shall not be
located in any required setback or landscape areas.
2. Screening of Deposit Areas: Garbage, refuse compactor areas, and
recyclables collection areas must be fenced or screened so that they are not visible
to the general public. A six foot (6') wall or fence shall enclose any outdoor deposit
areas for refuIn cases where
Zoning Code fencing provisions conflict with the six foot (6') wall or fence
requirement, the Zoning Code provisions shall rule. Refuse, a 4-recyclables, and
compostables deposit areas located in industrial developments that are greater
than one hundred feet (100') from residentially zoned property are exempted
from this wall or fence requirement.
2-3. Accessibility May Be Limited: Access to refuse, recyclables, and
compostables deposit areas and collection points may be limited, except during
regular business hours and/or specific collection hours.
34.Office, Educational, and Institutional Developments — Minimum
Size: In office, educational, and institutional developments, a minimum of two (2)
square feet per every one thousand (1,000) square feet of building gross floor area
shall be provided for recyclables deposit areas and a minimum of four (4) square
feet per one thousand (1,000) square feet of building gross floor area shall be
provided for refuse deposit areas. A total minimum area of one hundred (100)
square feet shall be provided for recyclablesi+g and refuse deposit areas.
B-31
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
45. Manufacturing and Other Nonresidential Developments — Minimum
Size: In manufacturing and other nonresidential developments, a minimum of
three (3) square feet per every one thousand (1,000) square feet of building gross
floor area shall be provided for recyclables deposit areas and a minimum of six (6)
square feet per one thousand (1,000) square feet of building gross floor area shall
be provided for refuse deposit areas. A total minimum area of one hundred (100)
square feet shall be provided for recyclablesiRg and refuse deposit areas.
-56. Retail Developments — Minimum Size: In retail developments, a
minimum of five (5) square feet per every one thousand (1,000) square feet of
building gross floor area shall be provided for recyclables deposit areas and a
minimum of ten (10) square feet per one thousand (1,000) square feet of building
gross floor area shall be provided for refuse deposit areas. A total minimum area
of one hundred (100) square feet shall be provided for recyclablesisg and refuse
deposit areas.
F. MODIFICATIONS:
Whenever there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of
this Section, modifications may be granted for individual cases in accordance with
the procedures and review criteria in RMC 4-9-250D.
G. APPEALS:
Any decisions made in the administrative process described in this Section may be
appealed to the Community and Economic Development Administrator within
fifteen (15) days and filed, in writing, with the Department of Community and
B-32
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
Economic Development. The Administrator shall give substantial weight to any
discretionary decision of the City rendered pursuant to this Section.
Section XXXIII:
follows:
Subsection 4-4-105.D of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
D. SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM, GROUND MOUNTED EQUIPMENT, SMALL-SCALE:
1. Height: No portion of the structure shall exceed the maximum allowed wall -
plate height for detached accessory buildings in the subject zone as established in
RMC 4-2-1109E, Development Standards for Resi. ential n,,yelen,v,,,n+ Detached
Accessory Buildings}.
2. Setbacks: The structure shall be subject to setback requirements for
detached accessory buildings in the subject zone as established in RMC 4-2-110-RE,
Development Standards for Reside Tt+a; Dever ^^+ Detached Accessory
Buildings}.
3. Location: The structure shall not be sited closer than six feet (6') from a
residential structure and shall not be located between the primary structure and
a street.
4. Impervious Surface/Building Coverage: Structures with grass or an
alternative pervious surface under the associated panels are excluded from
maximum building coverage or maximum impervious surface area requirements
established in RMC 4-2-110A, Development Standards for Residential ZeRiRg
e.s+gRat+ens y StF6lGt zs}Low Density and Medium Density Zones —
Primary Structures. or RMC 4-2-110B. Development Standards for Residential High
B-33
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
Density Zones - Primary Structures. If pavement or other impervious surfaces are
utilized around the base of the structure or under the solar panels, the structure
would be not be eligible for the exemption.
SECTION XXXIV. Subsection 4-4-155.13 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
B. APPLICABILITY:
The standards of this Section shall apply to all attached dwelling units, excluding
Middle Housing.
SECTION XXXV. Section 4-7-090 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended
according to Exhibit F incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION XXXVI. Section 4-7-140 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
4-7-140 PARKS AND OPEN SPACE:
Approval of all subdivisions located in eitheF siRgle farmly ,.;-,P-R+*-' er
. ult;_family smdentmal z s defined- OR the Zenin . C,, within residential
zoning designations shall be contingent upon the applicant's dedication of land or
providing fees in lieu of dedication to the City, all as necessary to mitigate the
adverse effects of development upon the existing park and recreation service
levels. The requirements and procedures for this mitigation shall be as set forth in
RMC 4-1-190.
SECTION XXXVII. Subsection 4-7-150.E.5 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
B-34
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
5. Alley Access: Alley access is the preferred street pattern for all new residential
development except t+aTLsw Density land use desTg�aat-ieT,-(,-«R 1,
and R ^ zeRes) and the R 6 zene. All new residential development in an area that
has existing alleyisl shall utilize alley access. New residential development in areas
without existing alleys shall utilize alley access for interior lots. If the developer or
property owner demonstrates that alley access is not practical, the use of alleytsl
may not be required. The City will consider the following factors in determining
whether the use of alleyisl is not practical:
a. Size: The new development is a short plat.
b. Topography: The topography of the site proposed for development is not
conducive for an alley configuration.
c. Environmental Impacts: The use of alleys would have more of a negative
impact on the environment than a street pattern without alleys.
d. If site characteristics allow for the effective use of alleys.
SECTION XXXVIII. Subsection 4-9-030.1-1 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
H. Reserved.-EGISIGNI GRITFRIA — Arrrccnov n\Airl I INc I INIT (ADLJ) 0 A/NCD
B-35
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
- - - r0.al
A Aff.,..Jabili+... Cif+., p .,+ /50041 of the +.,+-.I shall he desirr.,ate -,
•
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
subsection;
,T
the date
Ar hhelAw sixty peFeea+ (cn�f the area„gPdm;;A;TTeeY,, SAiGI d„r;")R th., +,.,,,P,,,
d;;,Tgthetwelve (12) ea with the 'ate, as e a b l e;e;
a -Rd
compliance with the non owner eeculpaRey exemption, including buit net limited
r% C:nRtr;;rt- If thp conditional use peFFnit is approved, the applicant/ow
B-37
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
SECTION XXXIX. Subsection 4-10-020.13 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended
as follows:
B. Upon the restoration of a structure, commenced by a complete building permit
application within one year of damage caused by fire, explosion or other
unforeseen circumstances, valued to be greater than fifty percent (50%) of its
assessed or appraised value, the site shall be brought into conformance with
existing development standards; provided, however, that there shall be no limit
on the restoration value of a single-family dwelh*g accessory dwelling units,
and/or middle housing dwellings if a complete building permit application is
applied for within one year of damage.
SECTION XL. Subsection 4-10-050.A.2 through 3 of the Renton Municipal Code is
amended as follows:
2. Unsafe Structures Secure Building Condition: The nonconforming
structure is kept in a safe and secure condition.
3. Limits on Alterations: The cost of alterations, remodels, or renovations
of a legal nonconforming structure, except single-family, accessory dwelling units,
and/or middle housing dwellings, shall not exceed an aggregate cost of forty
percent (40%) in twelve (12) months or sixty percent (60%) in forty-eight (48)
months of the value of the structure, based upon its most recent assessment or
appraisal, unless the changes make the structure more conforming, or are used to
restore to a safe condition any portion of a structure declared unsafe by the
Building Official. Mandatory improvements for fire, life safety or accessibility, as
.11
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
well as replacement of mechanical equipment, do not count towards the cited
monetary thresholds. Alterations, remodels, or restoration work shall not result
in or increase any nonconforming condition unless permitted by subsection A4 of
this Section, Limits on Enlargement. Nonconforming single—family, accessory
dwelling units, and/or middle housing dwellings may be replaced, enlarged,
altered, remodeled, or renovated, without limitation of cost, pursuant to current
code requirements (e.g., height limits, lot coverage, density limits, setbacks, etc.),
unless such actions would increase one or more nonconformity.
SECTION XLI. Subsection 4-10-050.A.4.b.iii of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
iii. The enlargement is confined to the projected footprint of a single-family,
accessory dwelling unit, and/or middle housing dwelling. If the proposed
enlargement is nonconforming with respect to zoning setbacks, and the
enlargement will comply with this Section and all other development regulations,
the enlargement may be allowed if it is located within the projected footprint of
the building. The projected footprint is determined with the criteria below by
extending a line from and parallel to the furthest encroaching portion(s) of the
building. The enlargement is limited to the height of the qualifying encroachment,
and any other applicable height limitation. For the purpose of determining the
projected footprint, a qualifying encroachment shall:
(a) Represent at least fifty percent (50%) of the building's facade; and
(b) Be set back at least three feet (3') from any property line; and
B-39
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
(c) Not include any allowed setback projections, steps and/or decks, and
encroachments permitted by a land use decision.
Projected
Footprint Line
Alloaved
Enlargement
[.1ore than SO%
total side fac(-
Disqualified
Encroachment
Side Setbz
Rear Setback
Disqualified
Encroachment
Front Setback
SECTION XLII. Subsection 4-10-050.A.5.a of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
a. Single Family Dwellings: Any legally established single-family, accessory
dwelling unit, and/or middle housing dwelling deemed unsafe by the Building
Official, damaged by fire, explosion or an act of God, may be rebuilt to its same
size, location, and height on the same site, subject to all relevant fire and life safety
MC
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
codes without limitation on value. Restoration or reconstruction shall be initiated
by a building permit application within one year of a fire, explosion, or an act of
God. If a building permit application has not been submitted within one year from
the date of the fire or other casualty, the structure shall be deemed abandoned
and not allowed to be restored or reconstructed.
SECTION XLIII. Subsection 4-11-020.HH of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
HH. BUILDING HEIGHT: The measurement of building height depends on the
applicable zone, as follows:
1. Within the RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, R-14, and RMF Zones: Primary
structures and ,eeeSS9FY d wel!*RR „R;+- shall be measured by the vertical distance
from grade plane to the highest wall plate combined with the height of any portion
of the structure that extends above the wall plate (e.g., roof, deck, etc.), excluding
chimneys, ventilation stacks, and similar elements as determined by the
Administrator. Detached accessory structures shall be measured by the vertical
distance from grade plane to the average height of the highest roof surface.
2. All Other Zones: The vertical distance from grade plane to the average
height of the highest roof surface.
SECTION XLIV. Subsection 4-11-030.V of the Renton Municipal Code is amended as
follows:
B-41
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
V. COLLECTION POINT: in Y. biltipl f-,...,ily ..ideRee eemFigeFEial, Rdwstrial ;;Rd
PnRresideRtial The exterior location designation for
garbage and recyclables collection by the City's contractor or other authorized
haulers.
SECTION XLV. Section 4-11-040 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended according to
Exhibit G incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION XLVI. Section 4-11-180 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended according to
Exhibit H incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION XLVII. Section 4-11-200 of the Renton Municipal Code is amended according to
Exhibit I incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION XLVIII. Upon approval of the City Attorney, the City Clerk is authorized to
direct the codifier to make necessary corrections to this ordinance, including the corrections of
scriveners or clerical errors; references to other local, state, or federal laws, codes, rules, or
regulations; or ordinance numbering and section/subsection numbering and references. The City
Clerk is further authorized to direct the codifier to update any chapter, section, or subsection
titles in the Renton Municipal Code affected by this ordinance.
SECTION XLIX. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this
ordinance should be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction,
such invalidity or unconstitutionality thereof shall not affect the constitutionality of any other
section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this ordinance.
B-42
ORDINANCE NO. 6160
SECTION L. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect five (5) days after publication
of a summary of this ordinance in the City's official newspaper. The summary shall consist of this
ordinance's title.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL the 16`' day of June , 2025
R
I
Jason eth, City Clerk
APPROVED BY THE MAYOR this 161h day of June, 2025.
Approved as to form:
Shane Moloney, City Attorney
Date of Publication: 6/19/2025 (Summary)
CED:250RD005:05.12.2025
Armondo Pavone, Mayor
B-43
A
EXHIBIT A
RMC 4-2-060 Zoning Use Table
4-2-060 Zoning Use Table – Uses Allowed in Zoning Designations ZONING USE TABLE – USES ALLOWED IN ZONING DESIGNATIONS:
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
A. AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Agriculture P35 P35
Home agriculture AC35 AC35 AC35 AC35 AC35 AC35 AC35 AC35 AC35 AC35
Natural resource
extraction/recovery
H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
Research – Scientific (small
scale)
P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P
B. ANIMALS AND RELATED USES
Beekeeping AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC
Kennels AD P37 P37 P37 AD AD AD AD AD
Stables, commercial AD AD
Pet day care P37 P37 P37 AD AD AD AD AD AD AD82 AD82
Veterinary offices/clinics P AD42 P P P P112 P P P29 P P82 P82
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
C. RESIDENTIAL
Detached dwellingSingle-
family
P P P P P P P
Cottage P32 P32 P32 P32 P32 P32 P32
Attached dwellings –
FlatsApartments
P P P P P6 P6 P6 P6 P16 P6 P6 P6
Middle housing P P P P P
Attached dwellings – Garden
style apartments
P P P6
Attached dwellings –
Townhouses
P P P13 P13 P6 P6 P6
Attached dwellings –
Carriage houses
P P P13 P6 P6
Accessory dwelling unit AC7 AC7 AC7 AC7 AC7
AC7 AC7
Manufactured homes P50 P50 P50 P50 P50 P P50 P50
D. OTHER RESIDENTIAL, LODGING AND HOME OCCUPATIONS
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Accessory dwelling unit AC7 AC7 AC7 AC7 AC7 AC7 AC7
Adult family home P P P P P P P P P P P P3
Assisted living AD AD P P P P P3 P40 P P96 P96
Caretaker’s residence AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC
Congregate residence AD P P3
Group homes I AD H3
Group homes II for 6 or less AD P P P P P P P P P P P3 P
Group homes II for 7 or more H H H H H H H H H P H H3 AD
Home occupations (RMC 4-9-
090)
AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC
Live-work unit AD AD AD
Permanent supportive
housing88
H H H H H H H H H H H H H H6 H6 H6 H6 H16 H6 H6 H6
Transitional housing88 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H6 H6 H6 H6 H16 H6 H6 H6
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
E. SCHOOLS
K-12 educational institution
(public or private)
H9 H9 H9 H9 H9 H9 H9 H9 H9 H9 H H H H9 H9 H9 H9 H9 H87 H87
Other higher education
institution
P29 P29 P29 P P P P21 AD87 AD87
Schools/studios, arts and
crafts
P P29 P29 P P P P
Trade or vocational school P P H H H77 H77
F. PARKS
Parks, neighborhood P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P
Parks, regional/community,
existing
P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P
Parks, regional/community,
new
AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD P P
G. OTHER COMMUNITY AND PUBLIC FACILITIES
Cemetery H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
Religious institutions H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Social service organizations H H H H H H H H H H H12 H21 H82 H82
Private club, fraternal
organizations
H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H12 H21 H82 H82
City government offices AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD P AD AD AD
City government facilities H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
Community health
engagement location (CHEL)
Jails, existing municipal P
Diversion facility H71 H71
Secure community transition
facilities
H71 H71
Other government facilities H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
Other government
maintenance facilities
H H
Other government offices AD42 P P P AD P112 P P P P P92 P92
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Homeless services use H H H H H H H H H H H
COVID-19 deintensification
shelter
P101 P101 P101 P101 P101 P101
H. OFFICE AND CONFERENCE
Conference centers P P P H P P P P21 P18 P18
Medical and dental offices AD42 P P P AD P112 P P P P P92 P92
Offices, general AD42 P P P AD P112 P P P P P92 P92
I. RETAIL
Adult retail use (RMC 4-3-
010)
P P P P P P P12
Coffee stand80, 81 AD AD AD AD AD AD AD82 AD82
Commissary kitchen31 P P P AC AC P26 AC P27 AC AC AC
Drive-in/drive-through,
retail19, 80
AC AC AC AC AC61 AC AC61 AC82 AC82
Eating and drinking
establishments80, 81
P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 AD33 AD34 AD34 P29 P P P22 P61 P P61 P12 P82 P82 P82
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Horticultural nurseries,
existing
AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD
Horticultural nurseries, new AD AD29
Marijuana retail (RMC 4-1-
250)
AD P AD P21 P82 P82
Mobile food vending P10 P10 P10 P10 P10 P10 P10 P10 P10 P10 P23 P23 P23 P10 P23 P23 P23 P23 P10 P10 P10
Retail sales AD33 AD AD AC AC AC P22 P P P P54 P21 P82 P82
Retail sales, outdoor P15 P15 P30 P30 P30 P15 P15 P15 P15 P15
Taverns AD P20 AD P21 P82 P82
Vehicle sales, large P29 P29 P29 P29
Vehicle sales, small P P P P68
Walk-up window81 AD1 AD1 AD1 AD1 AD1 AD1 AD1 AD33 AD33 AD33 AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD
Wholesale retail P P P P29 P79 P79
J. ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Adult entertainment
business (RMC 4-3-010)
P P P P P P12
Card room P52 P52 P52 P52
Cultural facilities H H H H H H H H H H AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD
Dance clubs P29 P29 P29 AD P20 AD P29 AD
Dance halls P29 P29 P29 AD P20 AD P29 AD
Gaming/gambling facilities,
not-for-profit
H29 H29 H29 H20 H29
Movie theaters P29 P29 P29 AD P20 P P12 P82 P82
Smoking lounge
Sports arenas, auditoriums,
exhibition halls, indoor
AD29 AD29 AD29 P20 P AD29 H18 H18
Sports arenas, auditoriums,
exhibition halls, outdoor
AD29 AD29 AD29 AD20 AD29 H18 H18
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Golf courses (existing) P P P P P P P
Golf courses, new H P H H H H H
Marinas P P21 H H
Recreational facilities,
indoor, existing
H P33 P29 P29 P29 P P P P54 P21 P82 P82
Recreational facilities,
indoor, new
H P29 P4 P P P91 P12 P21 P82 P82
Recreational facilities,
outdoor
P29 P29 P29 H20 H29 H83 H83
K. SERVICES
Bed and breakfast house,
accessory
AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD P
Bed and breakfast house,
professional
AD AD AD5 AD5 AD P
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Hotel P29 P29 P29 P P20 P P P P18 P18
Hotel, extended stay P29 P29 P29 P29 P
Motel P29 P29 P29 P P20
Off-site services P29 P29 P29 P29
On-site services AD33 P29 P29 P29 P22 P P P P54 P21 P82 P82
Drive-in/drive-through
service
AC61 AC61 AC61 AC80 AC61 AC80 AC61 AC61 AC61 AC82 AC82
Vehicle rental, small P P P P20
Vehicle and equipment
rental, large
P29 P29 P29
Adult day care I AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC P P P P P P P P P P100 P100
Adult day care II H H H H H H H H P P P P P P P P12 P21 P100 P100
Day care centers H25 H25 H25 H25 H25 H25 H25 H25 P P P P P P P P P21 P100 P100
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Family day care AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC3 AC AC AC AC
Convalescent centers H H H H H P AD P3 P40 AD AD96 AD96
Medical institutions H H H H H H H H H H29 H29 H H H H P H H H
L. VEHICLE RELATED ACTIVITIES
Car washes P P P AD2 P2
Fuel dealers H59 P
Industrial engine or
transmission rebuild
P28 P28 P28
Parking garage, structured,
commercial or public
P P P P P20 P3 P P P92 P92
Parking, surface, commercial
or public, existing
P29 P29 P29 P20 P3 AD
Parking, surface, commercial
or public, new
P29 P29 P29 P20 AD
Park and ride, dedicated P107 P107 P107 P107 P107 P107 P107 P107 P107
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Park and ride, shared-use P P P P P P P P P P P P107 P109 P107 P P107 P107
Railroad yards P
Taxi stand P AD AD
Tow truck operation/auto
impoundment yard
P36 H59 P AD36
Transit centers H29 H29 H29 P H20 P H29 P P
Truck terminals P
Vehicle fueling stations P P P P P P29
Vehicle fueling stations,
existing legal
P P P AD P P P29
Vehicle rental, small P P P P20
Vehicle and equipment
rental, large
P29 P29 P29
Vehicle service and repair,
large
AD2 P P
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Vehicle service and repair,
small
P2 P2 P2 AD2 AD2 AD2
Wrecking yard, auto H59 H
Airplane manufacturing H59 P78 P78
Airplane manufacturing,
accessory functions
AC P78 P78
Airplane sales and repair P
Airport, municipal P
Airport-related or aviation-
related uses
AC
Helipads P111 H29 H29 H29 H H H78 H78
Helipads, commercial H H78 H78
M. STORAGE
Bulk storage P29 P29 P29
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Hazardous material storage,
on site or off site, including
treatment
H24 H24 H24
Fulfillment center AD11 AD11
Outdoor storage, existing P29 P29 P29 P64
Outdoor storage, new P29 P29 P29 P64
Self-service storage AD29 P59 P H17
Vehicle storage AD29 AD29 AD29
Warehousing AD11 AD11 AD11
Warehousing and
distribution
AD11 AD11
N. INDUSTRIAL
Assembly and/or packaging
operations
P P P P86 P86
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Commercial laundries,
existing
P29 P29 P29 P4
Commercial laundries, new P29 P29 P29
Construction/contractor’s
office
P P P
Craft distilleries with tasting
rooms, small wineries, and
micro-breweries
P P P P P P P P
Industrial, heavy P14
Laboratories: light
manufacturing
P29 P29 P29 AD P20 P3 AD54 P86 P86
Laboratories: research,
development and testing
P28 P P H P20 AD3 AD H P86 P86
Manufacturing and
fabrication, heavy
H59 P67
Manufacturing and
fabrication, medium
P67 P67
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Manufacturing and
fabrication, light
P P P AD29 P P
Recycling collection and
processing center
P28 P28 P28 P29
Recycling collection station P P P P P P P P P
Sewage disposal and
treatment plants
H59 H
Waste recycling and transfer
facilities
H59 P
O. UTILITIES
Battery energy storage
system facility
Communication broadcast
and relay towers
H H H H H H H H H H H29 H29 H29 H H H H H H
Electrical power generation
and cogeneration
H H H66 H66 H66 H66 H66 H66 H66 H66 H66
Utilities, small P5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P5 P P P P P P P P P P P
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Utilities, medium AD5 AD5 AD5 AD5 AD5 AD5 AD5 AD5 AD5 AD5 AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD
Utilities, large H5 H5 H5 H5 H5 H5 H5 H5 H5 H5 H H H H H H H H H H H
Solar energy system, ground-
mounted, small-scale
AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC
P. WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITIES
Amateur radio antenna AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8 AD8
Camouflaged WCF AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD
Concealed WCF AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD
Major alterations to existing
WCF structures
AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD
Minor alterations to existing
WCF structures
P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P
Monopole I support
structures
H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47
Monopole II support
structures
H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47 H47
USES:
RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 RMH R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2 IL IM IH CN CV CA CD CO COR UC-1 UC-2
Small cells complying with a
preferred concealment
technique
P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P
Small cells submitting a
concealment element plan
AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD
Stealth tower AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD AD
Q. GENERAL ACCESSORY USES
Accessory uses per RMC 4-2-
050 and as defined in
chapter 4-11 RMC, where
not otherwise listed in Use
Table
AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC AC
Blank=Not Allowed P#=Permitted AC=Accessory Use
P=Permitted Use provided condition can be met #=Condition(s)
1
EXHIBIT B-1
RMC 4-2-110 and RMC 4-2-110A
4-2-110 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
4-2-110A DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS (PRIMARY
STRUCTURES) RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY AND MEDIUM DENSITY ZONES – PRIMARY STRUCTURES
4-2-110B DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (DETACHED ACCESSORY
BUILDINGS)HIGH DENSITY ZONES – PRIMARY STRUCTURES
4-2-110C DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (ACCESSORY DWELLING
UNITS) ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS
4-2-110D DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL MANUFACTURED HOME PARK ZONING
DESIGNATION
4-2-110E CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS TABLE FOR RESIDENTIAL
ZONING DESIGNATIONS DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR DETACHED ACCESSORY BUILDINGS
4-2-110F ILLUSTRATIONS DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR MIDDLE HOUSING
4-2-110G DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (COTTAGE HOUSE
DEVELOPMENT)
4-2-110H ILLUSTRATIONS
4-2-110I CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS TABLES
4-2-110A1 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL ZONING DESIGNATIONS (PRIMARY
STRUCTURES)1 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY AND MEDIUM DENSITY
ZONES – PRIMARY STRUCTURES
RC R-1 R-4 R-6 R-8 R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2
Minimum Net
Density (per Net
Acre)1, 2, 15
None 3
dwelling
units
4 dwelling units 5
dwelli
ng
units30
7
dwelli
ng
units30
10
dwelli
ng
units30
20
dwelling
units30
Maximum Net
Density (per Net
Acre, Except per
Net 10 Acres in
RC)2, 14, 15
1
dwelli
ng
unit
1
dwelli
ng
unit7,
36
4
dwelling
units
6
dwelling
units
8 dwelling
units38
10
dwelli
ng
units29
14
dwelli
ng
units29
20
dwelli
ng
units29
40
dwelling
units20
Maximum
Number of
Dwellings (per
Legal Lot)2
Single-family dwellings and cottage house dwelling
units: 1 per legal lot or unit lot.
Accessory dwelling units (attached or detached): 2 per
legal lot.
Middle housing: See RMC 4-2-110F, Development
Standards for Middle Housing Developments.
Maximum
Number of
Dwellings (per
Legal Lot)2
1
dwelli
ng
with 1
access
ory
dwelli
ng
unit
1
dwelli
ng
with 1
access
ory
dwelli
ng
unit7
1 dwelling with 1
accessory dwelling
unit
1 dwelling with
1 accessory
dwelling unit
Detached
dwellings: 1
dwelling with 1
accessory
dwelling unit
Attached
dwellings: n/a
Townhouses: 1
dwelling
Other Attached
Dwellings: n/a
Minimum Lot
Size2, 28, 31
10
acres
1
acre3,
32
9,000 sq.
ft.32, 34
7,000 sq.
ft.32, 34
5,000 sq. ft.34 Detach
ed
dwelli
ngs:
4,000
sq. ft.
Attach
ed
dwelli
ngs:
n/a
Detac
hed
dwelli
ngs:
3,000
sq. ft.
Attach
ed
dwelli
ngs:
n/a
n/a
Minimum Lot
Width31
150 ft. 100
ft.32
70 ft.32 60 ft.32 50 ft. 40 ft. 30 ft. Townhouses: 25
ft.
Other Attached
Dwellings: 50 ft.
Minimum Lot
Width31 (Corner
Lots)
175 ft. 110 ft. 80 ft. 70 ft. 60 ft. 50 ft. 40 ft. Townhouses: 30
ft.
Other Attached
Dwellings: 60 ft.
Minimum Lot
Depth31
300 ft. 200
ft.3, 32
100 ft.32 90 ft.32 80 ft. 70 ft. 60 ft. Townhouses: 50
ft.
Other Attached
Dwellings: 65 ft.
Minimum Front
Yard4, 5, 31
30 ft. 30 ft.6 30 ft.6, 33 25 ft.6 20 ft. except when all
vehicle access is taken
from an alley, then 15
ft.39
15
ft.11,
except
when
all
vehicl
e
access
is
taken
from
an
alley,
then
10
ft.39
Townhouses: 15
ft.11, except
when all vehicle
access is taken
from an alley,
then 10 ft.39
Other Attached
Dwellings: 20 ft.
Minimum Rear
Yard4, 22, 31
35 ft. 30 ft. 25 ft.33 25 ft. 25 ft.39 15 ft.21,
39
10
ft.21, 39
Townhouses: 10
ft.13, 39
Other Attached
Dwellings: 15
ft.39
Minimum Side
Yard4, 31
25 ft. 15 ft. Combine
d 20 ft.
with not
less than
7.5 ft. on
Combine
d 15 ft.
with not
less than
5 ft. on
5 ft. Detach
ed
Units:
4 ft.
Attach
ed
Detac
hed
Units:
4 ft.
Attach
ed
5 ft. for
unattached
side(s), 0 ft. for
the attached
side(s).13
either
side.
either
side.
Units:
4 ft.
for
unatta
ched
side(s),
0 ft.
for the
attach
ed
side(s).
23
Units:
4 ft.
for
unatta
ched
side(s)
, 0 ft.
for
the
attach
ed
side(s)
.23
Minimum
Secondary Front
Yard4, 5, 31
(applies to
Corner Lots)
30 ft. 30 ft.6 30 ft.6, 33 25 ft.6 15 ft.11 15 ft.11 15
ft.11
Townhouses: 15
ft.11
Other Attached
Dwellings: 20 ft.
Maximum
Building
Coverage
(including
Primary and
Accessory)
10% 20% 35% 40% 50% 55% 65% Townhouses:
70%
Other Attached
Dwellings: 35%
A maximum
coverage of 45%
may be allowed
through the
Hearing
Examiner site
development
plan review
process.
Maximum
Impervious
Surface Area
15% 25% 50% 55% 65% 70% 80% 75%
Maximum
Number of
Stories
3 2 3
Maximum Wall
Plate Height8, 9,
10, 12, 18, 19
32 ft. 24 ft. 24 ft.,
increa
se up
to 32
Townhouses: 32
ft.
Other Attached
Dwellings: 32 ft.,
ft.
possib
le
subjec
t to
admin
istrati
ve
condit
ional
use
permi
t
appro
val.
increase up to
42 ft. possible
subject to
administrative
conditional use
permit approval.
Maximum
Number of Units
per Building2
n/a 4 dwelling units No
more
than 4
units
per
buildin
g.
No
more
than 6
units
per
buildi
ng.
n/a
Minimum
Freeway
Frontage
Setback
10 ft. landscaped setback from the street property line.
Maximum
Wireless
Communication
Facilities Height
(including
Amateur Radio
Antennas)
See RMC 4-4-140, Wireless Communication Facilities. Amateur radio
antennas are allowed a maximum height of 6 feet without a
Conditional Use Permit. Larger structures will have a maximum height
determined by the Conditional Use Permit process, RMC 4-9-030,
Conditional Use Permits.
Design
Standards
See RMC 4-2-115, Residential Design and Open Space Standards.
Landscaping See RMC 4-4-070, Landscaping.
Exterior Lighting See RMC 4-4-075, Lighting, Exterior On-Site.
Screening See RMC 4-4-095, Screening and Storage Height/Location Limitations.
Exception for
Pre-Existing
Legal Lots
See RMC 4-10-010, Nonconforming Lots.
1
Please see Section 4-2-110E 4-2-110I, Conditions Associated With Development Standards Table For
Residential Zoning Designations Conditions Associated with Residential Development Standards Tables,
for explanation of table footnotes.
ORDINANCE NO. ________
B-2
EXHIBIT B-2
RMC 4-2-110B and RMC 4-2-110C
4-2-110B1 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY ZONES – PRIMARY
STRUCTURES
R-10 R-14 RMF RMF-2
Minimum Net Density (per
Net Acre)1, 2, 15
5 dwelling units30 7 dwelling units30 10 dwelling
units30
20 dwelling units30
Maximum Net Density (per
Net Acre)2, 14, 15
10 dwelling units29 14 dwelling
units29
20 dwelling
units29
40 dwelling units20
Maximum Number of
Dwellings (per Legal Lot)2
Detached dwellings: 1 dwelling unit
and up to 2 accessory dwelling units
Attached dwellings: n/a
Townhouses: 1 dwelling unit
Other Attached Dwellings: n/a
Minimum Lot Size2, 28, 31 Detached
dwellings: 4,000 sq.
ft.
Attached dwellings:
n/a
Detached
dwellings: 3,000
sq. ft.
Attached
dwellings: n/a
n/a
Minimum Lot Width31 40 ft. 30 ft. Townhouses: 25 ft.
Other Attached Dwellings: 50 ft.
Minimum Lot
Width31 (Corner Lots)
50 ft. 40 ft. Townhouses: 30 ft.
Other Attached Dwellings: 60 ft.
Minimum Lot Depth31 70 ft. 60 ft. Townhouses: 50 ft.
Other Attached Dwellings: 65 ft.
Minimum Front Yard4, 5, 31 20 ft. except when
all vehicle access is
taken from an
alley, then 15 ft.39
15 ft.11, except
when all vehicle
access is taken
from an alley,
then 10 ft.39
Townhouses: 15 ft.11, except when all
vehicle access is taken from an alley,
then 10 ft.39
Other Attached Dwellings: 20 ft.
Minimum Rear Yard4, 22, 31 15 ft.21, 39 10 ft.21, 39 Townhouses: 10 ft.13, 39
Other Attached Dwellings: 15 ft.39
Minimum Side Yard4, 31 Detached Units: 4 ft.
Attached Units: 4 ft. for unattached
side(s), 0 ft. for the attached side(s).23
5 ft. for unattached side(s), 0 ft. for
the attached side(s).13
Minimum Secondary Front
Yard4, 5, 31 (applies to Corner
Lots)
15 ft.11 Townhouses: 15 ft.11
Other Attached Dwellings: 20 ft.
Maximum Building
Coverage (including Primary
and Accessory)
55% 65% Townhouses: 70%
Other Attached Dwellings: 35%
A maximum coverage of 45% may be
allowed through the Hearing
Examiner site development plan
review process.
Maximum Impervious
Surface Area
70% 80% 75%
Maximum Number of Stories 2 3
Maximum Wall Plate
Height8, 9, 10, 12, 18, 19
24 ft. 24 ft., increase
up to 32 ft.
possible subject
to administrative
conditional use
permit approval.
Townhouses: 32 ft.
Other Attached Dwellings: 32 ft.,
increase up to 42 ft. possible subject
to administrative conditional use
permit approval.
Maximum Number of Units
per Building2
4 units 6 units n/a
Minimum Freeway Frontage
Setback
10 ft. landscaped setback from the street property line.
Maximum Wireless
Communication Facilities
Height (including Amateur
Radio Antennas)
See RMC 4-4-140, Wireless Communication Facilities. Amateur radio antennas
are allowed a maximum height of 6 feet without a Conditional Use Permit.
Larger structures will have a maximum height determined by the Conditional
Use Permit process, RMC 4-9-030, Conditional Use Permits.
Design Standards See RMC 4-2-115, Residential Design and Open Space Standards.
Landscaping See RMC 4-4-070, Landscaping.
Exterior Lighting See RMC 4-4-075, Lighting, Exterior On-Site.
Screening See RMC 4-4-095, Screening and Storage Height/Location Limitations.
Exception for Pre-Existing
Legal Lots
See RMC 4-10-010, Nonconforming Lots.
1 Please see Section 4-2-110I, Conditions Associated with Residential Development Standards Tables, for
explanation of table footnotes.
4-2-110C DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNITS) 4-2-110C1 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS
1. PURPOSE AND INTENT: The provisions of this subsection are available as an opportunity to augment
local housing inventory, diversify housing type and size, and create opportunities for homeownership.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are well-suited for smaller households, older adults aging in place,
people with disabilities, individuals on fixed incomes, and others seeking affordable living arrangements.
2. APPLICABILITY: The provisions of this subsection shall apply to the development of ADUs when
located on the same lot as a principal dwelling within the following residential zones: Resource
Conservation (RC), Residential-1 (R-1), Residential-4 (R-4), Residential-6 (R-6), Residential-8 (R-8),
Residential-10 (R-10), and Residential-14 (R-14). ADUs proposed as an accessory use to a religious
institution or social service organization shall follow the provisions of RMC 4-2-080A.7, Conditions
Associated with Zoning Use Tables and RMC 4-9-030D and 4-9-030I, Conditional Use Permits.
3. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: All applicable health and safety standards shall apply. Nothing in this
subsection requires the issuance of a building permit for ADUs if other federal, state, and local
requirements for a building permit are not met, including but not limited to building, fire, and energy
code requirements, adequate access to utility services, emergency services, etc.
4. DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS: The following development standards are established for ADUs:
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS4, 10
Maximum Number of Units24 Two (2) ADUs are allowed per legal lot as an accessory use to a principal
dwelling.
Configuration
Either one (1) attached ADU and one (1) detached ADU, two (2) attached
ADUs, or two (2) detached ADUs. ADUs may be established within or as an
addition to the principal dwelling.
In RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, and R-8 zones, when two (2) ADUs are proposed, the
second ADU shall comply with the location and setback requirements
applicable to the principal dwelling.
Maximum Gross Floor Area40 1,000 sq. ft.
Maximum Building Area26, 41 1,000 sq. ft.
Conversions25 If a conversion unit occupies an entire single floor of the primary dwelling, it
may be allowed to increase the maximum unit size to efficiently use all the
floor area. Conversion units greater than 1,250 sq. ft. shall be classified as an
attached dwelling rather than ADU.
Parking20 A minimum of 1.0 parking space per dwelling unit.
No off-street parking required for ADUs located on lots within a ½ mile
walking distance from a Major Transit Stop.
Design Standards See RMC 4-2-115, Residential Design Standards.
ATTACHED AND INTERNAL ADUs
Setbacks and
Building Height
ADUs shall comply with the standards applicable to primary structures,
pursuant to RMC 4-2-110A, Development Standards for Residential Low
Density and Medium Density Zones – Primary Structures, and RMC 4-2-110B,
Development Standards for Residential High Density Zones.
DETACHED ADUs
Front Yard and Secondary
Front Yard Setbacks
ADUs shall comply with the location and front yard setback requirements of
the underlying zone, pursuant to RMC 4-2-110A, Development Standards for
Residential Low Density and Medium Density Zones and RMC 4-2-110B,
Development Standards for Residential High Density Zones.
Detached ADUs shall be located at least 4 ft. from any residential structure
otherwise the structure shall be considered an attached ADU.
Side Yard Setbacks RC and R-1 zones: 25 ft.
R-4, R-6, and R-8 zones: 5 ft.
R-10 and R-14 zones: 4 ft.
Rear Yard Setbacks 5 ft. When located within 10 ft. of the rear property line, at least 25% of the
lineal length of the rear yard shall remain unoccupied from accessory
dwellings.
ADUs may be sited at the rear lot line where an alley is present.
Building Height23, 42 24 ft. measured to the highest point of a flat roof or the highest ridge of a
pitched roof.
MAXIMUM NUMBER AND SIZE
General17
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-
8, R-10, and R-14
1 ADU is permitted per legal lot.
Unit size shall be determined by lot size and the size of
the primary structure; the total gross floor area of the ADU
shall not exceed the size stated in the Maximum Unit Size
section of this table or 75% of the total gross floor area of
the primary structure, whichever is smaller.41
MAXIMUM UNIT SIZE
Lot Area: Maximum ADU Size40, 41
3,000 sq. ft. or less 600 sq. ft.
3,001 – 4,999 sq. ft. or
less 700 sq. ft.
5,000 – 6,999 sq. ft. or
less 800 sq. ft.
7,000 – 8,999 sq. ft. or
less 900 sq. ft.
Greater than 9,000 sq.
ft. 1,000 sq. ft.
MAXIMUM WALL PLATE HEIGHT10, 18, 19, 41
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-
8, R-10 and R-14
ADUs are subject to the maximum wall plate height of
RMC 4-2-110A, and associated conditions and shall not
be taller than the primary structure. Additional ADU height
allowances may be permitted upon application and
approval of a modification pursuant to RMC 4-9-250.42
LOCATION
General
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-
8, R-10 and R-14
ADUs shall be located at least 4 ft. from any residential
structure.
MINIMUM SETBACKS4, 41
Front Yard and Secondary Front Yard
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-
8, R-10 and R-14
The ADU shall be set back an additional 5 ft. parallel to
and measured from the front facade of the primary
structure and shall comply with the setbacks applied to the
primary structure, as identified in RMC 4-2-110A,
Development Standards for Residential Zoning
Designations.
ADUs shall not be permitted between the primary
structure and the street unless approved in the Conditional
Use Permit process.
Side Yard
RC and R-1 25 ft.
R4, R-6 and R-8 5 ft.
R-10 and R-14 4 ft.
Rear Yard
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-
8, R-10 and R-14
5 ft.
When located within 10 ft. of the rear property line, at least
25% of the lineal length of the rear yard shall remain
unoccupied from accessory dwellings, except when the
rear property line abuts an alley.
Clear Vision Area
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-
8, R-10 and R-14
In no case shall a structure over 42 in. in height intrude
into the 20 ft. clear vision area defined in RMC 4-11-030.
CRITICAL AREAS
General
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-
8, R-10 and R-14
See RMC 4-3-050, Critical Areas Regulations, and 4-3-
090, Shoreline Master Program Regulations.
1 Please see Section 4-2-110I, Conditions Associated with Residential Development Standards Tables, for
explanation of table footnotes.
ORDINANCE NO. ________
B-3
EXHIBIT B-3
RMC 4-2-110D
4-2-110D1 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL MANUFACTURED HOME PARK ZONING
DESIGNATION
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL MANUFACTURED HOME PARK ZONING
DESIGNATION
NEW PARK
Development or
Redevelopment
INDIVIDUAL
MANUFACTURED HOME
SPACES
Primary and Attached
Accessory Structures
DETACHED
ACCESSORY
STRUCTURES5
PARK AREA AND DENSITY1 (Net Density in Dwelling Units Per Net Acre)
Minimum Park Site
Area
2 net acres.2 NA NA
Minimum Housing
Density
5 units per net acre.2 NA NA
Maximum Housing
Density
10 units per net acre.2 NA NA
NUMBER OF RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES
Maximum Number
The only permanent
dwelling allowed on the
mobile home park shall
be the single family
dwelling of the owner or
manager.
No more than 1 primary
residential dwelling is
allowed on each approved
manufactured home space.
On parcels at least
3,000 sq. ft. in size, only
1 detached building or
structure is allowed;
provided, the lot
coverage requirement
is not exceeded.
LOT DIMENSIONS
Minimum “Lot” Size
for lots created after
July 11, 1993
3,000 sq. ft. 3,000 sq. ft. 3,000 sq. ft.
Minimum “Lot”
Width for lots
created after July
11, 1993
40 ft. for interior lots.
50 ft. for corner lots.
NA NA
Minimum “Lot”
Depth for lots
created after July
11, 1993
75 ft. NA NA
General Design Each lot shall be laid out
so as to optimize view,
It shall be illegal to allow or
permit any mobile home to
NA
privacy and other
amenities. Each lot shall
be clearly defined.
remain in the mobile home
park unless a proper space is
available for it.
SETBACKS4
Minimum Front
Yard
NA 10 ft. 10 ft.
Minimum
Secondary Front
Yard
NA 10 ft. 10 ft.
Minimum Side Yard
NA 5 ft. for interior lots. 5 ft. for interior lots
provided, that garages
and carports shall be
set back from the
property “line” a
sufficient distance to
provide a minimum of
24 ft. of backout room
either on-site or
counting the
accessway.
Minimum Rear Yard
NA 5 ft. 5 ft. provided, that
garages and carports
shall be set back from
the property line a
sufficient distance to
provide a minimum of
24 ft. of backout room
either on-site or
counting the
accessway.
Minimum Freeway
Frontage Setback
10 ft. landscaped
setback from the street
property line.
10 ft. landscaped setback
from the street property
line.
10 ft. landscaped
setback from the street
property line.
Setbacks for Mobile
Home Parks
Constructed Before
8-1-2010
NA Yard abutting a public
street: 20 ft.
Any yard abutting an
exterior property boundary
of the mobile home park: 5
ft.
Yard abutting a public
street: 20 ft.
Any yard abutting an
exterior property
boundary of the
mobile home park: 5 ft.
Minimum distance between
mobile homes: 15 ft.
Minimum distance between
canopy and mobile home on
an abutting lot: 5 ft.
Setbacks from all other “lot
lines”: 0 ft. (see RMC 4-2-
110FH)
Minimum distance
between structure and
mobile home on an
abutting lot: 5 ft.
Setbacks from all other
“lot lines”: 0 ft.
Setbacks for Other
Uses
To be determined
through the land use
review process.
NA NA
Clear Vision Area
In no case shall a
structure over 42 in. in
height intrude into the
20 ft. clear vision area
defined in RMC 4-11-
030.
In no case shall a structure
over 42 in. in height intrude
into the 20 ft. clear vision
area defined in RMC 4-11-
030.
In no case shall a
structure over 42 in. in
height intrude into the
20 ft. clear vision area
defined in RMC 4-11-
030.
PRIVATE STREET IMPROVEMENTS
On-Site Private
Streets, Curbs and
Sidewalks
Asphaltic or concrete
streets and concrete
curbings shall be
provided to each lot. The
minimum width of
streets shall be 30 ft.
Concrete sidewalks of at
least 5 ft. in width shall
be placed along at least
1 side of each street or
located in the back or
side of each lot so that
there is sidewalk access
to all lots. Sidewalks
shall be made of
permeable material to
the extent required by
the Surface Water
Design Manual.
NA NA
Illumination: A street
lighting plan shall be
approved if it provides
sufficient illumination
NA NA
between sunset and
sunrise to illuminate
adequately the
roadways and walkways
within a mobile home
park.
BUILDING STANDARDS
Maximum Building
Height and
Maximum Number
of Stories
30 ft. 30 ft. 15 ft.
Maximum Height
for Wireless
Communication
Facilities
See RMC 4-4-140. See RMC 4-4-140. See RMC 4-4-140.
Maximum Building
Coverage
(Including the
primary
manufactured home
and all enclosed
accessory structures
and required deck or
patio)
NA 60%. The building coverage
of the primary
residential structure
along with all accessory
buildings shall not
exceed the maximum
building coverage of
this Zoning District.
LANDSCAPING
General See RMC 4-4-070. See RMC 4-4-070. NA
RECREATION AREA
General
A minimum of 10% of
the total area of the park
shall be reserved and
shall be used solely and
exclusively for a
playground-recreation
area.
NA NA
PARKING
Minimum
Requirements
See RMC 4-4-080. Each mobile home lot shall
have a minimum of 2 off-
street automobile parking
spaces.
Each mobile home lot
shall have a minimum
of 2 off-street
Attached and detached
garages and carports shall be
set back from the property
“line” a sufficient distance to
provide a minimum of 24 ft.
of backout room either on-
site or counting the
accessway.
automobile parking
spaces.
Attached and detached
garages and carports
shall be set back from
the property “line” a
sufficient distance to
provide a minimum of
24 ft. of backout room
either on-site or
counting the
accessway.
PATIO OR DECK
General
NA A concrete patio or deck of
not less than 125 sq. ft. with
a minimum width of 8 ft.
shall be provided for each
mobile home park lot
created after the effective
date of this Section (9-19-
1983). These structures will
be counted toward the
maximum lot coverage.
A concrete patio or
deck of not less than
125 sq. ft. with a
minimum width of 8 ft.
shall be provided for
each mobile home park
lot created after the
effective date of this
Section (9-19-1983).
These structures will be
counted toward the
maximum lot coverage.
SIGNS
General See RMC 4-4-100. NA NA
EXCEPTIONS
Pre-Existing “Lots”
NA Nothing herein shall be
determined to prohibit the
construction of single family
dwelling or manufactured
home and its accessory
building on a previously
approved manufactured
home “lot” provided that all
setback, lot coverage, height
limits, infrastructure, and
parking requirements for
this zone can be satisfied
and provisions of RMC 4-3-
Nothing herein shall be
determined to prohibit
the construction of
single family dwelling
or manufactured home
and its accessory
building on a previously
approved
manufactured home
“lot” provided that all
setback, lot coverage,
height limits,
infrastructure, and
050, Critical Areas, can be
met.
parking requirements
for this zone can be
satisfied and provisions
of RMC 4-3-050, Critical
Areas Regulations, can
be met.
CRITICAL AREAS
General See RMC 4-3-050 and 4-
3-090.
See RMC 4-3-050 and 4-3-
090.
See RMC 4-3-050 and
4-3-090.
1 Please see Section 4-2-110I, Conditions Associated with Residential Development Standards Tables, for
explanation of table footnotes.
ORDINANCE NO. ________
B-4
EXHIBIT B-4
RMC 4-2-110E and RMC 4-2-110F
4-2-110E1 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR DETACHED ACCESSORY BUILDINGS
MAXIMUM NUMBER AND SIZE
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, R-
14, RMF, and RMF-2
Accessory structures shall only be allowed on lots in conjunction
with a primary use.
The total floor area of all accessory buildings shall not be greater
than the floor area of the primary residential uses.
The lot coverage of the primary residential structure combined
with all accessory buildings shall not exceed the maximum lot
coverage of the Zoning District.17
RC and R-1 2 structures – max. 720 sq. ft. per structure, or
1 structure – max. 1,000 sq. ft.
In addition, 1 barn or stable – max. 2,000 sq. ft., provided the lot is
5 acres or more.
R-4, R-6, and R-8 2 structures – max. 720 sq. ft. per structure, or
1 structure – max. 1,000 sq. ft.
R-10 and R-14 1 structure per residential unit – max. 400 sq. ft.; provided, that
they are architecturally consistent with the principal structure.
Except greenhouses, sheds, or other similar accessory structures –
max. 150 sq. ft.
MAXIMUM HEIGHT18, 19
General
RC 12 ft.
R-1, R-4, R-6, and R-8 12 ft.
Animal husbandry or agricultural related structures are subject to
the maximum wall plate height of subsection A of this Section, and
associated conditions. Additionally, the structure shall not be
taller than the primary dwelling.
R-10 and R-14 12 ft.
Agricultural related structures are subject to the maximum wall
plate height of subsection A of this Section, and associated
conditions, except that the structure shall not be taller than the
primary dwelling.
RMF and RMF-2 25 ft.20, except that the structure shall not be taller than the
primary building(s).
Public Facilities
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, R-
14, RMF, and RMF-2
Maximum height for public facilities shall be determined through
site plan review.
Wireless Communication Facilities (Including Amateur Radio Antennas)
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, R-
14, RMF, and RMF-2
See RMC 4-4-140, Wireless Communication Facilities, for
maximum height requirements. Freestanding vertical monopole
amateur radio antennas are allowed a maximum height of 45 ft.
without a Conditional Use Permit. Taller structures will have
maximum height determined pursuant to RMC 4-9-030,
Conditional Use Permits.
Clear Vision Area
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, R-
14, RMF, and RMF-2
In no case shall a structure over 42 in. in height intrude into the 20
ft. clear vision area defined in RMC 4-11-030.
LOCATION
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, R-
14, RMF, and RMF-2
4 ft. from any residential structure. If sited closer than 4 ft., the
structure shall be considered to be attached.
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10,
and R-14
For any lot that abuts an alley, vehicular access to garages or
carports shall be through the alley.
R-14 When lots do not abut an alley, all garages and carports shall be
located in the rear yard or side yard.
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front Yard and Secondary Front Yard
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, R-
14, RMF, and RMF-2
Setbacks applied to the primary structure also apply to accessory
structures. Accessory structures shall not be located between the
primary structure and a street.4
Side Yards for Accessory Buildings
RC and R-1 5 ft., unless located between the rear of the house and the rear
property line, then 0 ft. side yard is allowed.
R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, R-14, RMF,
and RMF-2
3 ft., unless located between the rear of the house and the rear
property line, then 0 ft. side yard is allowed.
Rear Yards for Accessory Buildings
RC 5 ft.
R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, R-14,
RMF, and RMF-2
3 ft., unless located between the rear of the house and the rear
property line, then 0 ft. rear yard is allowed.
When located within 10 ft. of the rear property line, at least 25%
of the lineal length of the rear yard shall remain unoccupied from
accessory structures, except when the rear property line abuts an
alley.
Except for garages/carports accessed through alleys: to ensure
adequate vehicular maneuvering area, garages and carports that
are accessed through alleys shall be set back as follows:
1. 9 ft. garage doors shall be at least 26 ft. from the back edge of
the alley, or
2. 16 ft. garage doors shall be at least 24 ft. from the back edge of
the alley.
Special Setbacks for Animal Husbandry or Agricultural Related Structures
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10,
and R-14
Agricultural related structures – 50 ft. from any property line.
Stables and other animal husbandry related structures, see RMC
4-4-010, Animal Keeping and Beekeeping Standards.
RMF and RMF-2 n/a
CRITICAL AREAS
RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, R-
14, RMF, and RMF-2
See RMC 4-3-050, Critical Areas Regulations, and 4-3-090,
Shoreline Master Program Regulations.
1 Please see Section 4-2-110I, Conditions Associated with Residential Development Standards Tables, for
explanation of table footnotes.
4-2-110F1 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR MIDDLE HOUSING
1. Purpose: The provisions of this subsection are available as an alternative to the development of
typical detached single-family dwelling units with the intention of generating diversified housing types in
conformance with RCW 36.70A, by providing land use, development, design, and other standards for
middle housing developments.
2. Applicability: The provisions of this subsection shall apply to all middle housing development within
the following zones: Resource Conservation (RC), Residential-1 (R-1), Residential-4 (R-4), Residential-6
(R-6), and Residential-8 (R-8) zones.
3. Exemptions: The provisions of this subsection do not apply to:
a. Portions of a lot with critical areas designated under RCW 36.70A.170, or their buffers as
required by RCW 36.70A.170, except for critical aquifer recharge areas where a single-family
dwelling unit is an allowed use provided that any requirements to maintain aquifer recharge are
met.
b. A watershed serving a reservoir for potable water if that watershed is or was listed, as of July 23,
2023, as impaired or threatened under section 303(d) of the federal clean water act (33 U.S.C. Sec.
1313(d)).
c. Lots within designated urban separators by countywide planning policies as of July 23, 2023.
d. Lots less than 1,000 square feet in size.
e. Lots created through the splitting of a single residential lot.
4. Authority and Responsibility:
a. Nothing in this subsection requires the issuance of a building permit for middle housing if other
federal, state, and local requirements for a building permit are not met.
b. Nothing in this subsection affects or modifies the responsibilities of the city to plan for or
provide “urban governmental services” as defined in RCW 36.70A.030.
c. The city shall not approve a building permit for middle housing without compliance with the
adequate water supply requirements of RCW 19.27.097.
d. The same development permit and environmental review processes shall apply to middle
housing that apply to single-family dwelling units, unless otherwise required by state law including,
but not limited to, shoreline regulations under chapter 90.58 RCW, building codes under chapter
19.27 RCW, energy codes under chapter 19.27A RCW, or electrical codes under chapter 19.28
RCW.
5. Additional Requirements: When determining a lot’s development potential for middle housing,
additional factors for consideration include:
a. Infrastructure and Services: Any lot proposed for middle housing development must ensure
adequate access to utility services, emergency services, and all other required improvements,
sufficient to serve the development.
b. Lot Access: Access requirements and street design and development standards shall be provided
in accordance with RMC 4-6-060. Lots that are accessed via a shared driveway are limited to the
maximum number of dwelling units that may take access from a shared driveway, pursuant to RMC
4-6-060J, Shared Driveway Standards.
6. Maximum Dwelling Units per legal Lot: A maximum number of dwelling units are allowed per legal
lot, within applicable zones, as shown in the following table. For the purposes of this subsection,
accessory dwelling units and single-family dwelling units are included in the calculation of maximum
dwelling units per lot. For middle housing unit lot subdivisions, the maximum dwelling units per legal lot
shall apply to the parent site as a whole, rather than to individual unit lots.
Lots in all Applicable Zones
Lots located within ¼ mile
walking distance20 of a Major
Transit Stop
Lots with Affordable Housing
4 dwelling units per lot. 6 dwelling units per lot.
6 dwelling units per lot,
provided at least 2 units are
reserved for affordable housing
pursuant to subsection 9,
Affordable Middle Housing
Units.
7. Middle Housing Typologies: The following middle housing typologies are allowed within applicable
zones under this subsection:
a. Duplexes
b. Triplexes
c. Fourplexes
d. Stacked Flats
e. Townhouses
f. Courtyard apartments
8. Maximum Dwelling Units Per Building: A maximum of four (4) attached dwelling units is allowed per
building. For the purposes of this subsection, accessory dwelling units are included in the calculation of
maximum dwelling units per building.
9. Affordable Middle Housing Dwelling Units: To qualify for additional units under the affordable
housing provisions of subsection 6, an applicant shall rent or sell the required number of units as
affordable housing, in compliance with the following standards:
a. Affordable Housing Eligibility Criteria: Dwelling units that qualify as affordable housing shall have
costs, including utilities other than telephone, that do not exceed 30 percent of the monthly
income of a household whose income does not exceed the following percentages of median
household income adjusted for household size, for King County, as reported by the United States
Department of Housing and Urban Development:
i. Rental housing: 60 percent.
ii. Owner-occupied housing: 80 percent.
b. Affordability Duration and Recalculation: Affordable housing units provided under this
subsection shall remain affordable housing for a term of fifty (50) years from the date the
affordable housing agreement is recorded. For the full term a dedicated affordable housing unit is
required to remain affordable, the most recent affordability rates on file with the City Clerk’s Office
shall be applied at any point a new owner or renter is allowed to purchase or rent the unit, and at
the time of each rental rate adjustment. For owner-occupied units, compliance with the most
recent affordability rates on file with the City Clerk’s office shall be verified at the time of purchase.
Affordability shall not be recalculated for owner-occupied units so long as the unit remains
occupied by the same owner who qualified at time of their purchase.
c. Affordable Housing Agreement: Prior to issuing any building permit or final plat approval, the
applicant shall record a covenant or deed restriction that ensures the continuing rental or
ownership of units subject to these affordability requirements, consistent with the conditions in
chapter 84.14 RCW, for a period of no less than 50 years. The covenant or deed restriction shall
address criteria and policies to maintain public benefit if the property is converted to a use other
than that which continues to provide for permanently affordable housing.
d. Affordable Housing Unit Conditions: The units dedicated as affordable housing shall comply with
the following conditions:
i. Affordable units shall be provided in a range of sizes comparable to other units in the
development.
ii. The number of bedrooms in affordable units shall be in the same proportion as the number
of bedrooms in units within the entire development.
iii. Affordable units shall be distributed throughout the development and have substantially
the same functionality as the other units in the development.
10. Development Standards: Middle housing developments shall comply with the standards applicable
to single family development, pursuant to RMC 4-2-110A, Development Standards for Residential Low
Density and Medium Density Zones – Primary Structures.
11. Design Standards: Middle housing developments shall comply with the design standards applicable
to single family development, pursuant to RMC 4-2-115, Residential Design and Open Space Standards.
In addition, Middle housing developments shall comply with the following standards, where applicable:
a. Entries: All ground-related dwelling units fronting a street and/or common open space shall
provide a covered porch with a minimum depth of five feet (5'). Dwelling units that are accessed
entirely from an internal common corridor are exempt from this requirement provided the shared
entry features a covered porch with a minimum depth of five feet (5').
b. Pedestrian access: A paved pedestrian connection at least three feet wide is required between
each middle housing building and the sidewalk (or the street if there is no sidewalk). Driveways
may be used to meet this requirement.
c. Courtyard Apartments – Open Space: Courtyard Apartments shall provide open space in
conformance with the following:
i. At least one outdoor common open space is required.
ii. Common open space shall be bordered by dwelling units on two (2) or three (3) sides.
iii. Common open space shall be a minimum dimension of 15 feet on any side.
Iv. Parking areas and vehicular areas do not qualify as a common open space.
12. Parking and Driveway Standards: Middle housing developments shall comply with all driveway and
parking design standards applicable to single family development, pursuant to RMC 4-4-080, Parking,
Loading and Driveway Regulations, except for the number of required parking spaces, which shall be
subject to the following:
a. Off-Street Parking Spaces Required for Middle Housing:
Lots 6,000 sq. ft. or Less Lots greater than 6,000 sq. ft.
Lots located within ½ mile
walking distance20 of a Major
Transit Stop
A minimum of 1.0 per dwelling
unit.
A minimum of 2.0 per dwelling
unit.
No off-street parking required.
Developers that provide off-
street parking spaces, when not
required by this subsection, are
eligible for parking incentives
pursuant to subsection 12.b of
this section.
b. Parking Incentives for Middle Housing Development Located within ½ Mile Walking Distance20 of
a Major Transit Stop: Middle housing developments that provide off-street parking spaces as
shown in the following table, when not otherwise required by this subsection, are eligible for the
following parking incentives, provided the increase is feasible and consistent with the Surface
Water Design Manual. For each increase in number of parking spaces provided, the applicant is
eligible for an additional parking incentive. For example, applicants that provide a minimum of 2.0
parking spaces per dwelling unit are eligible for the incentives below.
Number of Off-Street Parking Stalls
Provided Incentives
A minimum of 1.0 per dwelling unit.
10% Increase in Maximum
Impervious Surface Area permitted
by the subject zone, pursuant to RMC
4-2-110A; and
A minimum of 2.0 per dwelling unit.
5% Increase in Maximum Building
Coverage permitted by the subject
zone, pursuant to RMC 4-2-110A.
13. Conflicts: In the event of a conflict between this subsection and other development regulations
applicable to middle housing, the standards of this subsection prevail.
1 Please see Section 4-2-110I, Conditions Associated with Residential Development Standards Tables, for
explanation of table footnotes.
ORDINANCE NO. ________
B-5
EXHIBIT B-5
RMC 4-2-110G
4-2-110G DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (COTTAGE HOUSE
DEVELOPMENT):
1. Purpose: The provisions of this subsection are available as alternatives to the development of typical
detached single-family homes with the intention of generating housing types that are responsive to
changing household demographics and homeownership opportunities in single-family neighborhoods.
2. Applicability: This subsection applies to proposed cottage house developments in residential zones R-
4, R-6, R-8, R-10, and R-14. An existing single-family home incorporated into a cottage house
development that does not meet the requirements of this subsection is allowed to remain onsite.
Proposed modifications or additions to the structure not consistent with the provisions of this
subsection shall not be permitted.
3. Limitations: No more than one hundred (100) cottage houses shall be permitted Citywide in a
calendar year.
4. Development Regulations:
Maximum Unit Size 1,500 sq. ft.
At least 50% of all cottages
in a development shall be
less than 1,000 sq. ft.
Minimum Number of
Cottages per
Cluster
3
Maximum Number of
Cottages per Cluster
12
Minimum Distance
Between Structures
All units must be detached,
with a minimum separation
of 8 ft.
Maximum Wall Plate
Height
18 ft.
Roofs with a pitch equal to
or greater than 4:12 may
project an additional 6'
vertically from the
maximum wall plate height.
Maximum Number of
Stories
2
Separation Between
Clusters
Individual clusters shall be
separated by landscaping,
common open space,
critical areas, or a
community building.
ORDINANCE NO. ________
B-6
EXHIBIT B-6
RMC 4-2-110H and RMC 4-2-110I
4-2-110H ILLUSTRATIONS
4-2-110I CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS TABLES
1. a. Phasing, shadow platting, or land reserves may be used to satisfy the minimum density
requirements if the applicant can demonstrate that the current development would not preclude the
provision of adequate access and infrastructure to future development and would allow for the eventual
satisfaction of minimum density requirements through future development. Within the Urban Center,
surface parking may be considered a land reserve.
b. In the event the applicant can show that minimum density cannot be achieved due to lot
configuration, lack of access, environmental or physical constraints, minimum density
requirements may be waived.
2. Applicable provision(s) or standard(s) are not eligible for a variance.
3. 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 4-3-050M12b, Evaluation Criteria, and RMC 4-3-
050M12c, 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.
4. Allowed Projections into Setbacks:
a. Fireplace Structures, Windows: Fireplace structures, bay or garden windows, enclosed stair
landings, and similar structures as determined by the Community and Economic Development
Administrator may project twenty-four inches (24") into any setback; provided, such projections
are:
i. Limited to two (2) per facade.
ii. Not wider than ten feet (10').
b. Fences, Rockeries, and Retaining Walls: See RMC 4-4-040, Fences, Hedges, and Retaining Walls.
c. Steps and Decks: Uncovered steps and decks not exceeding eighteen inches (18") above the
finished grade may project to any property line. Uncovered steps and decks having no roof
covering and not exceeding forty-two inches (42") high may be built within the front yard setback.
d. Eaves: Eaves and cornices may project up to twenty-four inches (24") into any required
setback.
e. Porches and Stoops: May project into front setbacks up to eight feet (8') and into side setbacks
along a street up to five feet (5').
f. Overhead Weather Protection:
i. Roofs and awnings situated above pedestrian entryways may extend up to five feet (5')
into a required setback and may extend no wider than three feet (3') on either side of the
entryway.
ii. Roofs or other structures providing relief from rain or sun (e.g., pergola) attached to the
rear facade of the primary structure may intrude into rear yard setbacks provided such roofs
shall be set back a minimum of five feet (5') from rear lot lines and shall meet the side yard
setback requirement for primary structures. The height and area of such roofs shall be
regulated in the same manner as detached accessory structures.
g. Accessibility Ramps: Ramps required for barrier-free access, and meeting all Building Code
requirements including slope and handrails, may intrude into required setbacks. This exemption
will be limited to the extent necessary to meet the Building Code requirements.
h. Cisterns and Rain Barrels: Rain barrels, cisterns, and other rainwater catchment systems may
intrude into a required setback as follows:
i. Elements are not permitted in the front setback.
ii. Elements which are less than fifty-four inches (54") above finished grade and contain up to
six hundred (600) gallons may intrude into a side or rear setback a distance no greater than
twenty percent (20%) of that setback, but must maintain at least three feet (3') of undisturbed
setback.
iii. Elements which are greater than fifty-four inches (54") above finished grade or contain
over six hundred (600) gallons shall not intrude upon side and rear setback requirements.
i. Arbor, Pergola or Trellis: Allowed in required yard setbacks if they meet the following
provisions:
i. The length of any side shall not exceed twelve feet (12') and the footprint shall not exceed
eighty (80) square feet, inclusive of eaves;
ii. A maximum height from finished grade to the top of the structure of ten feet (10');
iii. Both sides and roof shall be at least fifty percent (50%) open, or, if latticework is used,
there shall be a minimum opening of two inches (2") between crosspieces.
iv. Limited to two (2) such structures per lot.
j. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems: HVAC Systems may extend into any
side or rear yard setback.
k. Rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems may project to any setback if the following provisions are
met:
i. The proposed system does not require a building permit pursuant to RMC 4-5-060E2c; and
ii. The system is located on a legally established nonconforming single-family dwelling,
accessory dwelling unit, or unit-lot townhome.
5. The minimum front yard and secondary front yard setback for lots that abut required turnarounds
(cul-de-sacs and hammerheads) may be reduced, excluding garage setbacks, to no less than five feet
(5'), subject to the following:
a. The maximum building coverage cannot be attained without a reduction of the front yard
and/or secondary front yard setback; and
b. The setback reduction is the minimum necessary to attain the allowed building coverage; and
c. If a setback reduction is approved under this provision the exceptions to setbacks pursuant to
subsection D4 of this Section (Allowed Projections into Setbacks) shall apply unless the proposed
projection is closer than five feet (5') to the property line/easement, except for eaves, which may
encroach the minimum five feet (5') setback as specified in subsection D4 of this Section.
d. The setback reduction may commence at a right angle to the point at which the right-of-way,
tract or easement begins to expand to form the turnaround.
6. Within subdivisions, the minimum front yard and secondary front yard setback may be reduced to
no less than twenty feet (20') provided the applicant can demonstrate to the Administrator’s satisfaction
that the setback reduction is necessary to preserve and maintain a landmark tree within a tree
protection tract, as each term is defined in RMC 4-11-200, Definitions T. An arborist report, pursuant to
RMC 4-8-120D1, shall be prepared and provided to the City for review and concurrence, demonstrating
that the setback reduction and project proposal serve to preserve the critical root zone of the tree
within a tree protection tract.
7. In the R-1 zone, assisted living facilities are eligible for bonus density pursuant to RMC 4-9-065,
Density Bonus Review. The maximum number of assisted living dwelling units per lot is equal to
maximum net density of the zone coupled with any approved density bonus pursuant to RMC 4-9-065,
Density Bonus Review.
8. Building height shall not exceed the maximum allowed by the subject zoning district or the
maximum allowed pursuant to RMC 4-3-020, Airport Related Height and Use Restrictions, whichever is
less.
9. The allowed height of public facilities shall be determined through site plan review.
10. Rooftop Photovoltaic (PV) Systems: Proposed rooftop solar systems that do not require a building
permit pursuant to RMC 4-5-060E2c shall not be subject to the maximum height standards applied to a
single-family dwelling, accessory dwelling unit, or unit-lot townhome.
11. Except for alley-accessed garages conforming to subsection D39 of this Section, the vehicle entry
for a garage or carport shall be set back twenty feet (20') from the property line where vehicle access is
provided; all other facades of a garage shall be subject to the applicable zone’s minimum setback.
12. Roofs of Modulated Facades: Wall plates of a modulated portion of a building may exceed the
maximum wall plate height if the roof surface does not exceed the ridgeline of the primary roof surface.
Such facade modulations shall be no wider than ten feet (10') or twenty five percent (25%) of the
building elevation, whichever is greater.
13. If the lot abuts a single-family residential zone (RC through R-14) a fifteen-foot (15') setback shall
be required along the abutting side(s) of the property.
14. For plats that create lots of a size large enough to allow future division under current lot size
minimums and allow the potential to exceed current density maximums, covenants shall be filed as part
of the final plat requiring that future division of those lots in question must be consistent with the
maximum density requirements as measured within the plat as a whole as of the time of future division,
as well as the general lot size and dimension minimums then in effect.
15. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) shall be excluded from density calculations; however, ADUs shall
be included in the total unit count when serving as an accessory use to middle housing.
16. The square foot calculation shall not include porches, exterior stairs, or garages.
17. Coverage attributed to detached accessory structures, and roofs attached to the facade of the
primary structure may exceed the maximum building/lot coverage allowed by five percent (5%).
18. Vertical Projections from Wall Plates:
a. 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. If the height of wall plates on a building are less than the
stated maximum the roof may project higher to account for the difference, yet the combined
height of both features shall not exceed the combined maximums (e.g., if the maximum wall plate
height of a zone is twenty-four feet (24') and the wall plates of a structure are no taller than twenty
feet (20'), the roof may project up to ten feet (10') instead of six feet (6')). Common rooftop
features, such as chimneys, may project an additional four (4) vertical feet from a roof surface.
b. The topmost surface of roofs pitched less than 4:12 and rooftop decks shall be below the
maximum wall plate height unless such surfaces are stepped back one and one-half (1.5) horizontal
feet from each minimum building setback line for each one vertical foot above the maximum wall
plate height, in which case they may extend up to six (6) vertical feet above the maximum wall
plate height. Deck enclosures (i.e., railings) located above the maximum wall plate height and not
stepped back shall be constructed of transparent tempered glass or its equivalent, as determined
by the Administrator.
19. Shed Roofs: Wall plates supporting a primary roof surface that has only one sloping plane (e.g.,
shed roof) may exceed the stated maximum if the average of wall plate heights is equal to or less than
the maximum wall plate height allowed.
20. The lot's proximity to a major transit stop, measured by walking distance, shall determine parking
requirements for middle housing and ADUs. The distance is measured through the creation of a
walkshed, which represents the collective spatial area within a defined walking distance from major
transit stops (e.g. one quarter (¼) mile or one half (½) mile). Geospatial tools incorporating major transit
stop locations and mapped pedestrian networks are used to approximate and map the walkshed
boundary. Lots that partially intersect or partially fall within the walkshed shall be treated as entirely
within.
21. The Community and Economic Development Administrator or designee may modify this provision
through the site development plan review process where it is determined that specific portions of the
required on-site perimeter landscaping strip may be developed and maintained as a usable public open
space with an opening directly to a public entrance.
22. 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.
23. Shed Roofs: Dwelling units with a primary roof surface that has only one sloping plane (e.g., shed
roof) may exceed the stated maximum if the average roof height is equal to or less than the maximum
height allowed.
24. Lots that are accessed via a shared driveway are limited to the maximum number of dwelling units
that may take access from a shared driveway, pursuant to RMC 4-6-060J, Shared Driveway Standards.
25. Conversion of accessory buildings and existing dwellings constructed before June 30, 2025, are
exempt from applicable development regulations, including but not limited to lot coverage, setbacks,
and size. However, any modifications made after June 30, 2025, that increase the structure’s
nonconformance will not qualify for these exemptions.
26. ADUs constructed using the city’s PRADU Program base plans shall be exempt from the maximum
building area limitation, provided the structure’s building area is in conformance with that shown on the
approved base plan.
27. Reserved.
28. For lots created after November 10, 2004.
29. A density bonus may be granted for developments that satisfy the criteria and standards of RMC 4-
9-065, Density Bonus Review.
30. Minimum density requirements shall not apply to the renovation or conversion of an existing
structure. Additionally, in the R-l zone only, minimum density requirements shall not apply to the
subdivision or development of a legal lot one-half (1/2) gross acre or less in size as of March 1, 1995.
31. In order to meet the variation requirements of RMC 4-2-115, lot dimensions and setbacks are
allowed to be decreased and/or increased; provided, that when averaged the applicable lot standards of
the zone are met. The minimum front and rear yard setback reduction shall be limited to two and one-
half feet (2.5') or ten percent (10%), whichever is greater. The minimum lot width and lot area reduction
shall be limited to ten percent (10%) of the lot width and lot area of the zone. The variation
requirements of RMC 4-2-115 do not require variations to the lot depth requirements; therefore the
averaging provision is not applicable to the minimum lot depth requirements.
32. In order to ensure compliance with Tier 1 requirements for Tree Preservation Priority, pursuant to
RMC 4-4-130H2a, lot size and lot dimensions of the zone may be decreased by a maximum of ten
percent (10%), provided the applicant can demonstrate to the Administrator’s satisfaction that the
reduction is necessary to ensure the preservation of all significant trees, as defined in RMC 4-11-200,
required for retention within dedicated tract(s), pursuant to RMC 4-4-130H1a, Minimum Tree Retention
Requirements.
33. In the R-4 zone, the following exceptions apply:
a. When parking is provided in the rear yard of the lot with access from a public right-of-way or
alley the minimum front yard shall be twenty feet (20').
b. The Administrator may reduce the setback by a maximum of fifty percent (50%) of the required
setback when all of the following conditions apply:
i. The setback that was required at the time of initial construction was less than the current
requirement;
ii. A reduced setback is appropriate given the character of the immediate neighborhood; and
iii. There are no other alternative locations that can reasonably accommodate the request
without encroaching into a setback.
34. For short plats of parcels smaller than one acre, one parcel may be allowed to be smaller than the
required minimum lot size indicated in subsection A of this Section, Residential Development Standards.
If all other parcels meet the required minimum lot size standard of the zone, one parcel may be allowed
to meet the following reduced minimum lot size (not applicable for cluster development):
a. R-4: Eight thousand (8,000) square feet.
b. R-6: Six thousand two hundred fifty (6,250) square feet.
c. R-8: Four thousand five hundred (4,500) square feet.
35. Reserved.
36. For parcels that are in designated urban separators in the R-1 zone, up to one unit per gross acre
may be permitted subject to conditions in RMC 4-3-110, Urban Separator Overlay Regulations.
37. Reserved.
38. For parcels in the R-8 zone, the maximum density shall be six (6) dwelling units per net acre when
alleys are not part of the proposed or existing street configuration, and alleys are considered practical,
as specified in RMC 4-7-150E5, Alley Access.
39. Reserved.
40. Gross floor area refers to the maximum interior habitable area of a dwelling unit, measured from
the exterior face of each wall, including basements and attics, but not including attached garages,
accessory structures, porches, or exterior stairs. For the purposes of this code section, habitable area
refers to space in a building for living, sleeping, eating, or cooking, and includes areas such as
bathrooms, toilets, hallways, storage areas, closets, utility rooms, and similar areas.
41. For the purposes of this code section, maximum building floor area is the sum of the gross
horizontal areas of all floors of a building measured from the exterior face of each wall, and includes
areas such as attached garages, accessory structures, utility rooms, and similar areas.
42. ADUs constructed using the city’s PRADU Program base plans shall be exempt from the maximum
building height limitation, provided the structure’s height is in conformance with that shown in the
approved base plan.
C
EXHIBIT C
RMC 4-2-115
4-2-115 RESIDENTIAL DESIGN AND OPEN SPACE STANDARDS:
A. PURPOSE:
1. These Residential Design and Open Space Standards are conceived to implement policies established
in the Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan, in order to enhance quality of life by encouraging
new residential development to produce beautiful neighborhoods of well-designed homes, and to
mitigate adverse impacts of density for the neighborhood and the surrounding community. These
standards are divided into three (3) areasthe following categories:
a. Site DesignBuilding Design: Key characteristics of attractive neighborhoods include a variety of
architectural styles, enhanced by a diverse selection of exterior materials, colors, and architectural
detailing. Quality neighborhoods are characterized by well landscaped, safe, pedestrian oriented
streets fronted by a variety of housing types. These qualities are enhanced by lots in a variety of
sizes and widths and by homes which vary in scale and massing, each with a prominent entry and
generous fenestration facing the street. Garages, while a necessity to today’s lifestyles, should not
visually dominate the streetscape.
b. Lot Configuration: Quality neighborhoods are characterized by well landscaped, safe, and
pedestrian-oriented streets fronted by a variety of housing styles. These qualities are enhanced by
lots in a variety of sizes and widths, which contributes to the construction of homes that vary in
scale and massing. Furthermore, variety in lot configuration also contributes to the overall image of
diverse housing stock and helps minimize the perception of monotony.
bc. Open Space: In order to provide residents with a livable community, private and public open
space shall be provided. Public open spaces shall be located so that a hierarchy and/or variety of
open spaces throughout the neighborhood is created.
cd. Site Amenities, Equipment, and UtilitiesResidential Design: Site amenities, equipment, and
utilities shall be located in a manner that is easily accessible to residents and mitigates adverse
impacts to neighbors. Furthermore, they shall be designed in a manner that is architecturally
compatible with the homes, or screened from visibility where appropriate.Key characteristics of
attractive neighborhoods include variety of housing architectural styles, enhanced by attention to
selection of exterior materials, colors, and architectural detailing.
e. Shared Parking: In order to contribute to the creation of communities that are oriented to
people and pedestrians as opposed to automobiles, shared parking areas, such as surface parking
and parking structures, shall be visually minimized through site placement or screening, or
architecturally enhanced to complement the community.
2. This Section lists elements that are required to be included in all residential development in the zones
stated in subsection B of this Section. Each element includes both standards and guidelines. Standards
are provided for predictability. These standards specify a prescriptive manner in which the requirement
can be met. Guidelines for each element are provided for flexibility. These guidelines provide direction
for those who seek to meet the required element in a manner that is different from the standards.
a. The determination as to the satisfaction of the requirement through the use of the guidelines is
to be made by the Community and Economic Development Administrator when no other permit or
approval requires Hearing Examiner review.
b. When it has been determined that the proposed manner of meeting the design requirement
through guidelines is sufficient, the applicant shall have satisfied that design requirement.
B. APPLICABILITY:
1. General Applicability: This Section shall apply to all new primary and attached dwelling units in the
following zones: Resource Conservation (RC), Residential-1 (R-1), Residential-4 (R-4), Residential-6 (R-6),
Residential-8 (R-8), Residential-10 (R-10), and Residential-14 (R-14), and unit lot subdivisions within the
RMF, RFM-2, and CV zones. The standards of the Site Design subsection are required to be addressed at
the time of subdivision application. The standards of the Residential Design subsection are required to
be addressed at the time of application for building permits. The standards of Residential Design are
required to be addressed for the building for which the building permit is being issued. Applications
subject to the Residential Design and Open Space Standards shall demonstrate compliance with the
applicable standards at the time of subdivision application, site plan review, or building permit
application if no subdivision or site plan review is proposed.
2. Additions and Expansions: Additions and/or expansions to detached or attached dwellings that are
valued at fifty thousand dollars ($50,000.00) or more, or at fifty percent (50%) or greater of the most
recent assessment or appraisal shall require that the entire dwelling or structure comply with the
standards of the Residential Design subsection E1 of this Section.
3. Existing Structures: When new dwelling units are created in the Residential Ten Dwelling Units per
Acre (R-10) and Residential Fourteen Dwelling Units per Acre (R-14) zones, any retained dwelling units
included in the development shall comply with the standards of this Section. For all cottage house
developments, when an existing dwelling on the parent site is proposed to be retained, it shall be
brought into conformance with the standards of this Section.
4. For cottage house developments in the R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, and R-14 zones, the project is required to
demonstrate compliance with the applicable Residential Design and Open Space Standards at the time
of subdivision application. When there is an existing dwelling on the parent site that is proposed to
remain in the cottage development, it shall be required to comply with the standards of this Section.
C. EXEMPTIONS:
1. Interior Remodels: The design regulations shall not apply to interior remodels of existing buildings or
structures provided the alterations do not modify the building facadeexterior.
2. Permit Ready ADU (PRADU): ADUs built using the city-produced PRADU base plans are exempt from
subsection E1 of this Section. Cottage house developments that utilize the city-produced PRADU base
plans for cottages are exempt from all but the garage standards of subsection E1 of this Section.
D. ADMINISTRATION:
1. Review Process: Applications subject to these design regulations shall be processed as a component
of the governing land use process.
2. Authority: The Administrator shall have the authority to approve, approve with conditions, or deny
proposals based upon the provisions of these design regulations when no other permit or approval
requires Hearing Examiner review. Proposals will be considered on the basis of individual merit, the
overall intent of the standards and guidelines, and creative design alternatives will be encouraged in
order to achieve the purposes of the design regulations.
E. REQUIREMENTS:
1. Site Building Design:
SCALE, BULK, AND CHARACTER: Well-designed homes with appropriate scale, bulk, and character
influence how people perceive and interact with their environment, impacting the overall sense of
community and privacy, as well as the livability of the neighborhood. Variety in the home design also
helps to minimize visual monotony and helps foster a uniqueness of place.
Guidelines: A diverse streetscape shall be provided by using elevations and models that demonstrate a
variety of floor plans, home sizes, and character.
Standards:
All zones
All design features, including porches, principal dormers, or other significant features,
shall be proportional to the primary building form and shall not dominate in a manner
inconsistent in the building’s architectural character.
Additionally, all of the following are required for detached dwellings:
1. A variety of elevations and models that demonstrate a variety of floor plans,
home sizes, and character shall be used;
2. Abutting, adjacent, and diagonal dwellings shall have differing architectural
elevations; and
3. No more than two (2) of the same model and elevation shall be built on the
same block frontage, or within the same cluster (when applicable).
COLOR PALETTES: The use of a variety in color palettes contributes to a sense of diversity of housing
stock in the community.
Guidelines: A diverse palette of colors shall be used on homes throughout the community to reduce
monotony of color or tone.
Standards:
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. Color palettes for all new buildings, coded to the building elevations, shall be
submitted for approval;
2. For detached dwellings (excluding ADUs), abutting, adjacent, and diagonal
homes shall be of differing color;
3. To differentiate same models and elevations within a development, different
colors shall be used;
4. Multiple colors on buildings shall be provided; and
5. Gutters and downspouts shall be integrated into the color scheme of the
building and be painted to match the trim color, or an integral color of the
home.
BUILDING MATERIALS: The use of a variety of building materials contributes to the visual appeal of a
home and the community.
Guidelines: A diversity of building materials, appropriate to the architectural character of the home,
shall be used to add visual interest and reduce monotony of facade texture.
Standards:
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. Buildings shall incorporate a minimum of two (2) differing siding materials
(horizontal siding and shingles, siding and masonry or masonry-like material,
etc.) on street-facing facades. One alternative siding material must comprise a
minimum of thirty percent (30%) of the street-facing façade;
2. Material transitions or changes shall not occur at an exterior corner, but shall
wrap the corner no less than twenty-four inches (24"). The material change
shall occur at an internal corner or a logical transition, such as aligning with a
window edge or chimney;
3. Acceptable exterior wall materials include: wood, cement fiberboard, stucco,
stone, and standard sized brick ((3 1/2" x 7 1/2") or (3 5/8" x 7 5/8")); and
4. Simulated stone, wood, or brick may be used only for detailing and not for the
primary form of the building.
PRIMARY ENTRY: Homes with a visually prominent front entry foster the sense that the community is
oriented to pedestrians. Prominent porches at the front entry provide opportunities for social
interaction and can contribute to a sense of place for residents. Additionally, porches work to minimize
the appearance of bulk by breaking up the facade.
Guidelines: Entrances to homes shall be a prominent focal point and allow space for social interaction.
Front doors shall face a street or common open area. Homes located on corner lots shall engage the
street on both sides using design features such as wraparound porches or other similar design
elements.
Standards:
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. All ground-related dwelling units shall provide a covered porch entry with a
minimum depth of five feet (5'), unless the dwelling units are accessed entirely
from an internal common corridor, in which case the shared entry shall feature
a covered porch with a minimum depth of five feet (5');
2. Entries shall be a minimum height of twelve inches (12") above grade;
3. Entries shall take access from and face a street, park, common green, pocket
park, pedestrian easement, or open space; and
4. Ground-related units that front two (2) streets shall engage both streets
utilizing design features that wrap the corner of the building, such as a
wraparound porch or pergola.
FACADE MODULATION: Building facades shall be modulated to break up long blank walls, add visual
interest, and enhance the character of the home. Facade modulation or articulation should contribute
to a sense of scale that is compatible with the neighborhood.
Guidelines: Buildings shall not have monotonous facades along public areas. Dwellings shall include
articulation along public frontages. The articulation may include the connection of an open porch to
the building, a dormer facing the street, or a well-defined entry element.
Standards:
All Zzones
One of the following are required:
1. Building facades that front a shared driveway, public street, park, common
green, pocket park, pedestrian easement, or open space shall provide at least
one articulation or change in plane of at least two feet (2') in depth, with a
width no less than ten feet (10’); or
2. Detached ADUs with a total building area of 800 sq. ft. or less may substitute a
more prominent primary entry in lieu of façade modulation, provided that the
entry features a covered porch with a square footage no less than ten percent
(10%) of the total building area.
WINDOWS AND DOORS: Windows and front doors are an integral part of the architectural character of
a home and contribute to the overall balance and integration of the building form. Additionally, when
they represent a significant amount of the building facade, they amplify the sense that the community
is oriented to people.
Guidelines: Windows and front doors shall serve as an integral part of the character of the home. Front
doors shall be a focal point of the dwelling and be in scale with the home. All doors shall be of the
same character as the home. Garage doors shall not contribute towards the minimum twenty five
percent (25%) window and door coverage on facades facing the street frontage or public spaces;
however, windows within the garage doors may be included.
Standards:
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. Windows and doors shall constitute a minimum of twenty-five percent (25%)
of the primary front façade;
2. Windows and doors shall constitute a minimum of twenty percent (20%) of the
secondary front façade when the home is located on a corner lot; and
3. Sliding glass doors are not permitted along a frontage elevation or an elevation
facing a pedestrian easement.
ROOFS: Roof forms and profiles are an important component in the architectural character of homes
and contribute to the massing, scale, and proportion of the home. Roofs also provide opportunity to
create variety, especially for homes of the same model.
Guidelines: Roofs shall represent a variety of forms and profiles that add character and relief to the
landscape of the neighborhood.
Standards:
All Zzones
Both of the following are required:
1. A variety of roofing colors shall be used within a development and all roof
material shall be fire retardant; and
2. Single-family residential subdivisions and cottage house developments shall
use a variety of roof forms, appropriate to the style of the home.
EAVES: The design of eaves and overhangs act as unifying elements in the architectural character of a
home. When sized adequately and used consistently, they work to create desirable shadows that help
to create visual interest especially from blank, unbroken wall planes.
Guidelines: Eaves should be detailed and proportioned to complement the architectural style of the
home.
Standards:
All zones
Both of the following are required:
1. Eaves projecting from the roof of the entire building at least twelve inches
(12") with horizontal fascia or fascia gutter at least five inches (5") deep on the
face of all eaves; and
2. Rakes on gable ends must extend a minimum of two inches (2") from the
surface of exterior siding materials.
ARCHITECTURAL DETAILING: Architectural detailing contributes to the visual appeal of a home and the
community. It helps foster the perception of quality design and helps reduce the apparent scale of the
home as seen from the street.
Guidelines: Architectural detailing shall be provided in a manner appropriate to the architectural
character of the home. Detailing, such as trim, columns, and/or corner boards, shall reflect the
architectural character of the home.
Standards:
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. Three and one-half inches (3 1/2") minimum trim surrounding all windows and
detailing all doors;
2. If only one siding material is used on any building facade that is two stories or
greater in height, a horizontal band that measures at least eight inches (8") is
required between the first and second story;
3. At least one of the following architectural details shall be provided on each
home: dormers, shutters, knee braces, flower boxes, or columns;
4. Where siding is used, metal corner clips or corner boards shall be used and
shall be at minimum two and one-half inches (2 1/2") in width and painted;
and
5. If columns are used, they shall be round, fluted, or strongly related to the
home's architectural style. Posts (6" x 6") may be allowed if chamfered and/or
banded. Exposed posts (6" x 6" or smaller) are prohibited.
GARAGES: The minimization of the visual impact of garages contributes to communities that are
oriented to people and pedestrians, as opposed to automobiles.
Guidelines: The visual impact of garages shall be minimized, while porches and front doors shall be the
emphasis of the front of the home. Garages shall be located in a manner that minimizes the presence
of the garage and shall not be located at the end of view corridors. Alley access is preferred, where
feasible.
Standards:
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. If an attached garage is wider than twenty-six feet (26'), at least one garage
door shall be recessed a minimum of four feet (4') from the other garage door;
2. For corner lots, attached garages shall not be located on the building corner
that fronts two streets (public street, private street, or shared driveway);
3. Garage doors shall contain a minimum of thirty percent (30%) glazing and/or
architectural detailing (e.g., trim and hardware); and
4. For cottage house developments, private garages are prohibited on individual
unit lots.
All zones
One of the following is required for all dwelling units, except ADUs:
1. The front porch projects in front of the garage a minimum of five feet (5'), and
is a minimum of twelve feet (12') wide;
2. The roof extends at least five feet (5') (not including eaves) beyond the front of
the garage for at least the width of the garage plus the porch/stoop area;
3. The garage door does not face a public and/or private street or an access
easement;
4. The garage width represents no greater than fifty percent (50%) of the width
of the front facade at ground level; or
5. The garage is detached.
LOT CONFIGURATION: Variety in the configuration of lots enhances the image of variety of
housing stock and helps minimize perceptions of monotony.
Guidelines: Developments shall create pedestrian oriented environments and amplify the
mutual relationship between housing units, roads, open space, and pedestrian amenities, while
also protecting the privacy of individuals. Lots shall be configured to encourage variety within
the development. To the maximum extent practicable as defined by the Surface Water Design
Manual, retain soils with potential for infiltration.
Standards:
RC, R-1,
and R-4 n/a
R-6 and R-
8
One of the following is required of preliminary plat applications:
1. Lot width variation of ten feet (10') minimum of one per four (4) abutting
street-fronting lots, or
2. Minimum of four (4) lot sizes (minimum of four hundred (400) gross
square feet size difference) for street-fronting lots, or
3. A front yard setback variation of at least five feet (5') minimum for at
least every four (4) abutting street fronting lots.
All zones
Lots shall be configured to achieve both of the following:
1. The location of stormwater infiltrating LID facilities is optimized,
consistent with the Surface Water Design Manual. Building and property
line setbacks are specified in the Surface Water Design Manual for
infiltration facilities.
2. Soils with good infiltration potential for stormwater management are
preserved to the maximum extent practicable as defined by the Surface
Water Design Manual.
R-10 and
R-14
Developments of more than four (4) structures shall incorporate a variety of
home sizes, lot sizes, and unit clusters.
Dwellings shall be arranged to ensure privacy so that side yards abut other side
yards (or rights-of-way) and do not abut front or back yards.
Lots accessed by easements or pipestems shall be prohibited.
GARAGES: The minimization of the visual impact of garages contributes to creating communities
that are oriented to people and pedestrians, as opposed to automobiles.
Guidelines: The visual impact of garages shall be minimized, while porches and front doors shall
be the emphasis of the front of the home. Garages shall be located in a manner that minimizes
the presence of the garage and shall not be located at the end of view corridors. Alley access is
encouraged. If used, shared garages shall be within an acceptable walking distance to the
housing unit it is intended to serve.
Standards:
RC and R-1 n/a
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
If an attached garage is wider than twenty six feet (26'), at least one garage
door shall be recessed a minimum of four feet (4') from the other garage door.
Additionally, one of the following is required:
1. The front porch projects in front of the garage a minimum of five feet
(5'), and is a minimum of twelve feet (12') wide, or
2. The roof extends at least five feet (5') (not including eaves) beyond the
front of the garage for at least the width of the garage plus the
porch/stoop area, or
3. The garage is alley accessed, or
4. The garage entry does not face a public and/or private street or an access
easement, or
5. The garage width represents no greater than fifty percent (50%) of the
width of the front facade at ground level, or
6. The garage is detached, or
7. The garage doors contain a minimum of thirty percent (30%) glazing,
architectural detailing (e.g., trim and hardware), and are recessed from
the front facade a minimum of five feet (5'), and from the front porch a
minimum of seven feet (7').
R-10 and
R-14
Garages may be attached or detached. Shared garages are also allowed,
provided the regulations of RMC 4-4-080 are met. Carports are not allowed.
One of the following is required:
1. The front porch projects in front of the garage a minimum of five feet
(5'), and is a minimum of twelve feet (12') wide, or
2. The garage is detached and set back from the front of the house and/or
porch at least six feet (6').
Additionally, all of the following is required:
1. Garage design shall be of similar design to the homes, and
2. If sides of the garage are visible from streets, sidewalks, pathways, trails,
or other homes, architectural details shall be incorporated in the design.
If shared garages are allowed, they may share the structure with other homes
and all of the following is required:
1. Each unit has garage space assigned to it, and
2. The garage is not to be located further than one hundred sixty feet (160')
from any of the housing units to which it is assigned, and
3. The garage shall not exceed forty four feet (44') in width, and shall
maintain an eight foot (8') separation from any dwellings.
2. Open SpaceLot Configuration:
LOT CONFIGURATION: Variety in the configuration of lots enhances the perception of variety of
housing stock and helps minimize perceptions of monotony.
Guidelines: Developments shall create pedestrian-oriented environments and amplify the mutual
relationship between housing units, roads, open space, and pedestrian amenities, while also protecting
the privacy of residents. Lots shall be configured to encourage variety within the development. To the
maximum extent practicable, as defined by the Surface Water Design Manual, soils with good
infiltration potential shall be preserved.
Standards:
All zones
New lots shall be configured to achieve both of the following:
1. The location of stormwater infiltrating LID facilities shall be optimized,
consistent with the Surface Water Design Manual. Building and property line
setbacks are specified in the Surface Water Design Manual for infiltration
facilities; and
2. Soils with good infiltration potential for stormwater management are
preserved to the maximum extent practicable, as defined by the Surface Water
Design Manual.
R-6 and R-8
One of the following is required of preliminary plat applications:
1. One out of every four (4) abutting lots on a street frontage shall provide a lot
width variation of at least ten feet (10') minimum;
2. Minimum of four (4) lot sizes (minimum of four hundred (400) gross square
feet size difference) for street-fronting lots; or
3. A front yard setback variation of at least five feet (5') minimum for at least
every four (4) abutting street fronting lots.
R-10 and All of the following are required:
R-14 1. Developments of more than four (4) structures shall incorporate a variety of
home sizes, lot sizes, and unit clusters.
2. Dwellings shall be arranged to ensure privacy so that side yards abut other side
yards (or rights-of-way), and do not abut front or back yards.
3. Lots accessed by easements or pipestems shall be prohibited.
LOT CONFIGURATION (COTTAGE HOUSE DEVELOPMENT): The parent site and unit lot configuration
should be designed to encourage neighbor-to-neighbor interaction, community building, and balance
the need for privacy.
Guidelines: Developments shall create pedestrian-oriented environments and amplify the mutual
relationship between housing units, open space, and pedestrian amenities, while also protecting the
privacy of individuals.
Standards:
All zones Unit lots should be oriented toward common open space area or community building;
when not achievable, unit lots should be oriented toward a street.
OPEN SPACE: Open space is a significant element in the development of livable communities
and creates opportunities for good health.
Guidelines: All open space shall be designed to preserve existing trees particularly native
conifers, native deciduous trees, and other native vegetation consistent with RMC 4-4-070,
Landscaping. Except for Native Growth Protection Areas, all common open space areas shall be
designed to accommodate both active and passive recreational opportunities and be visible and
open to the street. Pocket parks shall be designed to serve four (4) to ten (10) homes. Private
yards are located at the rear or side of homes and can include trees, planting beds, and privacy
fences. Reciprocal use easements can provide greater usability of private yards.
Landscaping:
R-10 and
R-14 See RMC 4-4-070, Landscaping.
Standards for Parks:
R-10 and
R-14
For developments that are less than ten (10) net acres: No park is required,
but is allowed.
For developments that are greater than ten (10) net acres: A minimum of one
one-half (.5) acre park, in addition to the common open space requirement, is
required.
Standards for Common Open Space:
R-10 and
R-14
Developments of three (3) or fewer dwelling units: No requirement to provide
common open space.
Developments of four (4) or more units: Required to provide common open
space as outlined below. Above ground drainage facilities (i.e., ponds, swales,
ditches, rain gardens, etc.) shall not be counted towards the common open
space requirement.
1
.
For each unit in the development, three hundred fifty (350) square feet of
common open space shall be provided.
2
.
Open space shall be designed as a park, common green, pea-patch,
pocket park, or pedestrian entry easement in the development and shall
include picnic areas, space for recreational activities, and other activities
as appropriate.
3
.
Open space shall be located in a highly visible area and be easily
accessible to the neighborhood.
4
.
Open space(s) shall be contiguous to the majority of the dwellings in the
development and accessible to all dwellings. For sites one acre or smaller
in size, open space(s) shall be no less than thirty feet (30') in any
dimension. For sites larger than one acre in size, open space(s) shall be no
less than forty feet (40') in any dimension. For all sites, to allow for
variation, open space(s) of less than the minimum dimensions (thirty feet
(30') or forty feet (40'), as applicable) are allowed; provided, that when all
of a site’s open spaces are averaged, the applicable dimension
requirement is met.
5
.
A pedestrian entry easement can be counted as open space if it has a
minimum width of twenty feet (20') and within that twenty feet (20') a
minimum five feet (5') of sidewalk is provided.
6
.
Pea-patches shall be at least one thousand (1,000) square feet in size
with individual plots that measure at least ten feet by ten feet (10' x 10').
Additionally, the pea-patch shall include a tool shed and a common area
with space for compost bins. Water shall be provided to the pea-patch.
Fencing that meets the standards for front yard fencing shall surround
the pea-patch with a one foot (1') landscape area on the outside of the
fence. This area is to be landscaped with flowers, plants, and/or shrubs.
7
.
Grass-crete or other pervious surfaces may be used in the common open
space for the purpose of meeting the one hundred fifty feet (150')
distance requirement for emergency vehicle access but shall not be used
for personal vehicle access or to meet off-street parking requirements.
8
.
Common open space areas shall have a maximum slope of five percent
(5%).
9
.
Obstructions, such as retaining walls and fences, shall not be placed in
common open spaces.
Standards for Private Yards:
R-10 and
R-14
Developments of three (3) or fewer dwelling units: Each individual dwelling
shall have a private yard that is at minimum six hundred (600) square feet in
size. Backyard patios and reciprocal use easements may be included in the
calculation of private yard.
Developments of four (4) or more dwelling units: Each ground-related
dwelling shall have a private yard that is at least two hundred fifty (250) square
feet in size with no dimension less than eight feet (8') in width.
An additional two hundred fifty (250) square feet of open space per unit shall
be added to the required amount of common open space for each unit that is
not ground related.
Common Open Space or Park Substitutions:
R-10 and
R-14
See RMC 4-1-240.
Sidewalks, Pathways, and Pedestrian Easements:
R-10 and
R-14
All of the following are required:
1
.
Sidewalks shall be provided throughout the neighborhood. The sidewalk
may disconnect from the road, provided it continues in a logical route
throughout the development. Permeable pavement sidewalks shall be
used where feasible, consistent with the Surface Water Design Manual.
2
.
Front yards shall have entry walks that are a minimum width of three feet
(3') and a maximum width of four feet (4').
3
.
Pathways shall be used to connect common parks, green areas, and
pocket parks to residential access streets, limited residential access
streets, or other pedestrian connections. They may be used to provide
access to homes and common open space. They shall be a minimum
three feet (3') in width and made of paved asphalt, concrete, or porous
material such as: porous paving stones, crushed gravel with soil
stabilizers, or paving blocks with planted joints. Sidewalks or pathways for
parks and green spaces shall be located at the edge of the common space
to allow a larger usable green and easy access to homes.
4
.
Pedestrian Easement Plantings: shall be planted with plants and trees.
Trees are required along all pedestrian easements to provide shade and
spaced twenty feet (20') on center. Shrubs shall be planted in at least
fifteen percent (15%) of the easement and shall be spaced no further
than thirty six inches (36") on center.
5
.
For all homes that do not front on a residential access street, limited
residential access street, a park, or a common green: Pedestrian entry
easements that are at least fifteen feet (15') wide plus a five-foot (5')
sidewalk shall be provided.
3. Residential DesignOpen Space:
OPEN SPACE: Open space is a significant element in the development of livable communities and
creates opportunities for good health.
Guidelines: All open space shall be designed in conformance with RMC 4-4-070, Landscaping, and 4-4-
130, Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations. Where possible, existing native trees and shrubs,
rock outcroppings, and mature ornamental landscaping shall be preserved and incorporated in the
open space landscaping. Except for Native Growth Protection Areas, all common open space areas shall
be designed to accommodate both active and passive recreational opportunities and be visible and
open to the street. Pocket parks shall be designed to serve four (4) to ten (10) homes. Private yards are
located at the rear or side of homes and can include trees, planting beds, and privacy fences.
Reciprocal use easements can provide greater usability of private yards. See RMC 4-1-240, Common
Open Space Substitutions, for common open space or park substitutions.
Standards for Parks:
R-10 and
R-14
Developments less than ten (10) net acres: Parks are allowed, but not required.
Developments greater than ten (10) net acres: A park comprising a minimum of one-
half (.5) acre is required, in addition to the common open space requirement.
Standards for Private Yards:
R-10 and
R-14
Developments of three (3) or fewer dwelling units: Each individual dwelling shall have
a private yard that is at minimum six hundred (600) square feet in size. Backyard patios
and reciprocal use easements may be included in the calculation of private yard.
Developments of four (4) or more dwelling units: Each ground-related dwelling shall
have a private yard that is at least two hundred fifty (250) square feet in size with no
dimension less than eight feet (8') in width.
An additional two hundred fifty (250) square feet of open space per unit shall be added
to the required amount of common open space for each unit that is not ground
related.
Standards for Common Open Space:
R-10 and
R-14
Developments of three (3) or fewer dwelling units: Not required to provide common
open space.
Developments of four (4) or more units: Required to provide common open space as
outlined below. Above ground drainage facilities (i.e., ponds, swales, ditches, rain
gardens, etc.) shall not be counted towards the common open space requirement.
1. For each unit in the development, three hundred fifty (350) square feet of
common open space shall be provided.
2. Open space shall be designed as a park, common green, pea-patch, pocket
park, or pedestrian entry easement in the development and shall include
picnic areas, space for recreational activities, and other activities as
appropriate.
3. Open space shall be located in a highly visible area and be easily accessible to
the neighborhood.
4. Open space(s) shall be contiguous to the majority of the dwellings in the
development and accessible to all dwellings. For sites one acre or smaller in
size, open space(s) shall be no less than thirty feet (30') in any dimension. For
sites larger than one acre in size, open space(s) shall be no less than forty feet
(40') in any dimension. For all sites, to allow for variation, open space(s) of less
than the minimum dimensions (thirty feet (30') or forty feet (40'), as
applicable) are allowed; provided, that when all of a site’s open spaces are
averaged, the applicable dimension requirement is met.
5. A pedestrian entry easement can be counted as open space if it has a
minimum width of twenty feet (20') and within that twenty feet (20') a
minimum five feet (5') of sidewalk is provided.
6. Pea-patches shall be at least one thousand (1,000) square feet in size with
individual plots that measure at least ten feet by ten feet (10' x 10').
Additionally, the pea-patch shall include a tool shed and a common area with
space for compost bins. Water shall be provided to the pea-patch. Fencing that
meets the standards for front yard fencing shall surround the pea-patch with a
one foot (1') landscape area on the outside of the fence. This area is to be
landscaped with flowers, plants, and/or shrubs.
7. Grass-crete or other pervious surfaces may be used in the common open space
for the purpose of meeting the one hundred fifty feet (150') distance
requirement for emergency vehicle access but shall not be used for personal
vehicle access or to meet off-street parking requirements.
8. Common open space areas shall have a maximum slope of five percent (5%).
9. Obstructions, such as retaining walls and fences, shall not be placed in
common open spaces.
Sidewalks, Pathways, and Pedestrian Easements:
R-10 and
R-14
All of the following are required:
1. Sidewalks shall be provided throughout the neighborhood. The sidewalk may
disconnect from the road, provided it continues in a logical route throughout
the development. Permeable pavement sidewalks shall be used where
feasible, consistent with the Surface Water Design Manual.
2. Front yards shall have entry walks that are a minimum width of three feet (3')
and a maximum width of four feet (4').
3. Pathways shall be used to connect common parks, green areas, and pocket
parks to residential access streets, limited residential access streets, or other
pedestrian connections. They may be used to provide access to homes and
common open space. They shall be a minimum three feet (3') in width and
made of paved asphalt, concrete, or porous material such as: porous paving
stones, crushed gravel with soil stabilizers, or paving blocks with planted joints.
Sidewalks or pathways for parks and green spaces shall be located at the edge
of the common space to allow a larger usable green and easy access to homes.
4. Pedestrian Easement Plantings: shall be planted with plants and trees. Trees
are required along all pedestrian easements to provide shade and spaced
twenty feet (20') on center. Shrubs shall be planted in at least fifteen percent
(15%) of the easement and shall be spaced no further than thirty- six inches
(36") on center.
5. For all homes that do not front on a residential access street, limited
residential access street, a park, or a common green: Pedestrian entry
easements that are at least fifteen feet (15') wide plus a five-foot (5') sidewalk
shall be provided.
OPEN SPACE (COTTAGE HOUSE DEVELOPMENT): Open space is a significant element in the design and
livability of a cottage house development and should create opportunities for social interaction,
community building, good physical health, and personal reflection. Common open areas and semi-
private space are favored and prioritized over purely private space. All open space shall be designed in
conformance with RMC 4-4-070, Landscaping, and 4-4-130, Tree Retention and Land Clearing
Regulations.
Community Buildings:
All zones
Developments with twenty-four (24) or more cottages are required to provide at least
one community building for indoor gatherings. Design elements, such as roof pitch,
architecture, materials, and colors, shall be similar to that of the cottages within the
development.
Standards for Private Yards:
All zones
Each individual cottage shall have a private yard that is at minimum two hundred and
fifty (250) square feet in size with no dimension less than eight feet (8') in width. Front
yard porches and backyard patios and reciprocal use easements may be included in the
calculation of private yard.
Standards for Common Open Space:
All zones
Above ground drainage facilities (i.e., ponds, swales, ditches, rain gardens, etc.) shall
not be counted towards the common open space requirement.
Developments shall provide common open space as follows:
1. For each unit in the development, three hundred fifty (350) square feet of
common open space shall be provided.
2. Open space shall be designed as a common green located within the
development and shall include picnic areas, and spaces for passive recreational
activities such as outdoor cooking, picnicking, walking, biking, observing
nature, and/or active recreational activities, such as playgrounds, bocce ball,
and pickleball.
3. Open space(s) shall be accessible to all cottages. For sites one acre or smaller
in size, open space(s) shall be no less than thirty feet (30') in any dimension.
For sites larger than one acre in size, open space(s) shall be no less than forty
feet (40') in any dimension. For all sites, to allow for variation, open space(s) of
less than the minimum dimensions (thirty feet (30') or forty feet (40'), as
applicable) are allowed; provided, that no dimension is less than eight feet (8')
in width and when all open spaces are averaged, the applicable dimension
requirement is met.
4. Grass-crete or other pervious surfaces may be used in the common open space
for the purpose of meeting the one hundred fifty feet (150') distance
requirement for emergency vehicle access but shall not be used for personal
vehicle access or to meet off-street parking requirements.
5. Common open space areas shall have a maximum slope of five percent (5%).
6. Obstructions, such as retaining walls and fences, shall be strategically placed
so as not to reduce usable open space.
Sidewalks and Pedestrian Easements:
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. Sidewalks shall be provided throughout the cottage house development. The
sidewalk may disconnect from the road, provided it continues in a logical route
throughout the development.
2. Front yards shall have entry walks that are a minimum width of four feet (4').
3. Sidewalks shall be used to connect common open space, common buildings,
and to provide access to cottages. They shall be a minimum of four feet (4') in
width and made of concrete, or porous material such as: porous paving stones,
crushed gravel with soil stabilizers, or paving blocks with planted joints. When
possible, sidewalks connecting to parks and green spaces shall be located at
the edge of the common open space to allow a larger usable green and easy
access to cottages.
4. Site Amenities, Equipment, and Utilities:
MAILBOXES
Guidelines: Mailboxes shall be located so that they are easily accessible to residents. They shall also be
architecturally compatible with the homes.
All zones All of the following are required:
1. Mailboxes shall be clustered and located so as to serve the needs of USPS
while not adversely affecting the privacy of residents;
2. Mailboxes shall be lockable consistent with USPS standard; and
3. Mailboxes shall be architecturally enhanced with materials and details that
reflect the home's architecture and character.
HOT TUBS, POOLS, AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT
Guidelines: Hot tubs, pools, and mechanical equipment shall be placed so as to not negatively impact
neighbors.
All zones
Both of the following are required:
1. Hot tubs and pools shall only be located in back yards and designed to
minimize sight and sound impacts to adjoining properties. Pool heaters and
pumps shall be screened from view and sound insulated. Pool equipment must
comply with codes regarding fencing; and
2. Mechanical equipment shall only be located in the rear and side yards.
UTILITIES
All zones Utility boxes that are not located in alleyways or away from public gathering spaces
shall be screened with landscaping or berms.
DUMPSTER/TRASH/RECYCLING COLLECTION AREA
All zones
Both of the following are required:
1. Trash and recycling containers shall be located so that they have minimal
impact on residents and their neighbors and so that they are not visible to the
general public; and
2. A screened enclosure in which to keep containers shall be provided or garages
shall be built with adequate space to keep containers. Screened enclosures
shall not be located within front yards.
5. Shared Parking:
SHARED PARKING: Minimizing the visual impact of shared surface parking and parking structures
contributes to a more cohesive and aesthetically pleasing residential streetscape by softening the
visibility of parking areas and integrating them more seamlessly into the surrounding environment.
Furthermore, buffering the visual impact of parking on adjacent properties improves a sense of privacy
in residential neighborhoods, and promotes a more pedestrian-friendly environment by making
parking areas less prominent.
Guidelines: The visual impact of parking areas and parking structures shall be minimized. All forms of
parking shall be located in a manner that minimizes the presence of the parking area, and associated
structures, and shall not be located at the end of view corridors unless appropriately screened. Alley
access is preferred, where feasible. Shared parking structures shall be within an acceptable walking
distance to the housing unit it is intended to serve. Shared surface parking and parking structures shall
comply with the regulations of RMC 4-4-080, Parking, Loading and Driveway Regulations.
General Standards:
All zones
Both of the following are required:
1. Each unit shall have a parking space assigned to it; and
2. For cottage house developments, parking shall be provided in designated areas
within the parent site, but not on individual unit lots.
Shared Parking Location Standards:
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. Shared parking shall be located no further than one hundred and sixty feet
(160') from any of the housing units to which it is assigned;
2. Shared parking structures and surface parking shall not be located between any
common open space and dwelling units; and
3. Shared parking structures and surface parking shall maintain a six-foot (6')
separation from any private yard space, and an eight-foot (8') separation from
any dwellings.
Shared Surface Parking Standards:
All zones
Surface parking of five (5) or more spaces that are visible from a public right-of-way (not
including alleys) or adjacent to single-family uses, shall be screened.
Shared Parking Structure Design Standards:
All zones
All of the following are required for shared parking structures:
1. Shared parking structures shall not exceed forty-eight feet (48') in width;
2. Shared parking structures shall include architectural details that are consistent
with the architectural character of the community, including but not limited to
trim, columns, and/or corner boards; and
3. If sides of the shared parking structure (enclosed) are visible from streets,
sidewalks, pathways, or trails, or other homes, architectural details shall be
incorporated in the design.
PRIMARY ENTRY: Homes with a visually prominent front entry foster the sense that the
community is oriented to pedestrians. Features like porches and stoops at the front entry
provide opportunity for social interaction and can contribute to a sense of place for residents.
Additionally, porches work to minimize the appearance of bulk by breaking up the facade.
Guidelines: Entrances to homes shall be a focal point and allow space for social interaction.
Front doors shall face the street and be on the facade closest to the street. When a home is
located on a corner lot (i.e., at the intersection of two roads or the intersection of a road and a
common space) a feature like a wrapped porch shall be used to reduce the perceived scale of
the house and engage the street or open space on both sides.
Standards:
RC and R-1 n/a
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
The entry shall include a porch or stoop with a minimum depth of five feet (5')
and minimum height of twelve inches (12") above grade.
Exception: in cases where accessibility (ADA) is a priority, an accessible route
may be taken from a front driveway.
R-10 and R-
14
Both of the following are required:
1. The entry shall take access from and face a street, park, common green,
pocket park, pedestrian easement, or open space, and
2. The entry shall include a porch or stoop with a minimum depth of five
feet (5') and minimum height twelve inches (12") above grade.
Exception: in cases where accessibility (ADA) is a priority, an accessible route
may be taken from a front driveway.
FACADE MODULATION: The modulation of facades creates an appearance of variety, as well as
visual breaks that help to create visual interest.
Guidelines: Buildings shall not have monotonous facades along public areas. Dwellings shall
include articulation along public frontages; the articulation may include the connection of an
open porch to the building, a dormer facing the street, or a well-defined entry element.
Standards:
RC and R-1 n/a
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
One of the following is required:
1. An offset of at least one story that is at least ten feet (10') wide and two
feet (2') in depth on facades visible from the street, or
2. At least two feet (2') offset of second story from first story on one
street-facing facade.
R-10 and R-
14
Both of the following are required:
1.
The primary building elevation oriented toward the street or common
green shall have at least one articulation or change in plane of at least
two feet (2') in depth; and
2. A minimum of one side articulation that measures at least one foot (1')
in depth shall occur for all facades facing streets or public spaces.
WINDOWS AND DOORS: Windows and front doors are an integral part of the architectural
character of a home and when they incorporate architectural elements of the home, they
contribute to the overall balance and integration of the building form. Additionally, when they
represent a significant amount of the facade of a home, they amplify the sense that the
community is oriented to people.
Guidelines: Windows and front doors shall serve as an integral part of the character of the
home. Primary windows shall be proportioned vertically rather than horizontally. Vertical
windows may be combined together to create a larger window area. Front doors shall be a focal
point of the dwelling and be in scale with the home. All doors shall be of the same character as
the home.
Standards:
RC and R-1 n/a
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
Windows and doors shall constitute twenty five percent (25%) of all facades
facing street frontage or public spaces.
R-10 and R-
14
All of the following are required:
1. Primary windows shall be proportioned vertically, rather than
horizontally, and
2. Vertical windows may be combined together to create a larger window
area, and
3.
All doors shall be made of wood, fiberglass, metal, or glass and trimmed
with three and one-half inches (3 1/2") minimum head and jamb trim
around the door, and
4. Screen doors are permitted, and
5.
Primary entry doors shall face a street, park, common green, pocket
park, or pedestrian easement and shall be paneled or have inset
windows, and
6. Sliding glass doors are not permitted along a frontage elevation or an
elevation facing a pedestrian easement.
SCALE, BULK, AND CHARACTER: Residential communities are intended for people and homes
that have appropriate scale and bulk contribute to the sense of orientation to people. Variety in
the character of homes helps to minimize visual monotony while helping to foster a perception
of uniqueness of place.
Guidelines: A diverse streetscape shall be provided by using elevations and models that
demonstrate a variety of floor plans, home sizes, and character. Neighborhoods shall have a
variety of home sizes and character.
Standards:
RC and R-1 n/a
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
A variety of elevations and models that demonstrate a variety of floor plans,
home sizes, and character shall be used. All of the following are required:
1. A variety of elevations and models that demonstrate a variety of home
sizes, character, and a diverse streetscape.
2. Abutting, adjacent, and diagonal houses must have differing
architectural elevations.
R-10 and R-
14
All of the following are required:
1.
The primary building form shall be the dominating form and elements
such as porches, principal dormers, or other significant features shall
not dominate, and
2. Primary porch plate heights shall be one story. Stacked porches are
allowed, and
3. To differentiate the same models and elevations, different colors shall
be used, and
4.
For single family dwellings, no more than two (2) of the same model and
elevation shall be built on the same block frontage and the same model
and elevation shall not be abutting, adjacent, or diagonal.
ROOFS: Roof forms and profiles are an important component in the architectural character of
homes and contribute to the massing, scale, and proportion of the home. Roofs also provide
opportunity to create variety, especially for homes of the same model.
Guidelines: Roofs shall represent a variety of forms and profiles that add character and relief to
the landscape of the neighborhood. The use of bright colors, as well as roofing that is made of
material like gravel and/or a reflective material, is discouraged.
Standards:
RC and R-1 n/a
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
A variety of roof forms appropriate to the style of the home shall be used.
R-10 and R-
14
Both of the following are required:
1. A variety of roofing colors shall be used within the development and all
roof material shall be fire retardant; and
2. Single family residential subdivisions shall use a variety of roof forms
appropriate to the style of the home.
EAVES: The design of eaves and overhangs act as unifying elements in the architectural
character of a home. When sized adequately and used consistently, they work to create
desirable shadows that help to create visual interest especially from blank, unbroken wall
planes.
Guidelines: Eaves should be detailed and proportioned to complement the architectural style of
the home.
Standards:
RC and R-1 n/a
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
Both of the following are required:
1.
Eaves projecting from the roof of the entire building at least twelve
inches (12") with horizontal fascia or fascia gutter at least five inches
(5") deep on the face of all eaves, and
2. Rakes on gable ends must extend a minimum of two inches (2") from
the surface of exterior siding materials.
R-10 and R-
14
The following is required: Eaves shall be at least twelve inches (12") with
horizontal fascia or fascia gutter at least five inches (5") deep on the face of all
eaves.
ARCHITECTURAL DETAILING: Architectural detailing contributes to the visual appeal of a home
and the community. It helps to create a desirable human scale and a perception of a quality,
well-designed home.
Guidelines: Architectural detail shall be provided that is appropriate to the architectural
character of the home. Detailing like trim, columns, and/or corner boards shall reflect the
architectural character of the house.
Standards:
RC and R-1 n/a
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
If one siding material is used on any side of the dwelling that is two stories or
greater in height, a horizontal band that measures at least eight inches (8") is
required between the first and second story.
Additionally, one of the following is required:
1. Three and one-half inch (3 1/2") minimum trim surrounds all windows
and details all doors, or
2.
A combination of shutters and three and one-half inches (3 1/2")
minimum trim details all windows, and three and one-half inches (3
1/2") minimum trim details all doors.
R-10 and R-
14
All of the following are required:
1. Three and one-half inches (3 1/2") minimum trim surrounds all windows
and details all doors, and
2. At least one of the following architectural details shall be provided on
each home: shutters, knee braces, flower boxes, or columns, and
3.
Where siding is used, metal corner clips or corner boards shall be used
and shall be at minimum two and one-half inches (2 1/2") in width and
painted. If shutters are used, they shall be proportioned to the window
size to simulate the ability to cover them, and
4.
If columns are used, they shall be round, fluted, or strongly related to
the home's architectural style. Six inches by six inches (6" x 6") posts
may be allowed if chamfered and/or banded. Exposed four inches by
four inches (4" x 4") and six inches by six inches (6" x 6") posts are
prohibited.
MATERIALS AND COLOR: The use of a variety of materials and color contributes to the sense of
diversity of housing stock in the community.
Guidelines: A diversity of materials and color shall be used on homes throughout the
community. A variety of materials that are appropriate to the architectural character of the
neighborhood shall be used. A diverse palette of colors shall be used to reduce monotony of
color or tone.
Standards:
RC and R-1 n/a
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
For subdivisions and short plats, abutting, adjacent, and diagonal homes shall
be of differing color. Color palettes for all new dwellings, coded to the home
elevations, shall be submitted for approval. Where masonry siding is
proposed at the edge of a facade, it shall also extend along the adjoining
facade no less than twenty four inches (24"), measured horizontally from the
corner of the structure.
Additionally, one of the following is required:
1. A minimum of two (2) colors is used on the home (body with different
color trim is acceptable), or
2.
A minimum of two (2) differing siding materials (horizontal siding and
shingles, siding and masonry or masonry-like material, etc.) is used on
the home. One alternative siding material must comprise a minimum of
thirty percent (30%) of the street-facing facade.
R-10 and R-
14
All of the following are required:
1.
Acceptable exterior wall materials are: wood, cement fiberboard,
stucco, stone, and standard sized brick three and one-half inches by
seven and one-half inches (3 1/2" x 7 1/2") or three and five-eighths
inches by seven and five-eighths inches (3 5/8" x 7 5/8"). Simulated
stone, wood, stone, or brick may be used to detail homes, and
2.
When more than one material is used, changes in a vertical wall, such as
from wood to brick, shall wrap the corners no less than twenty four
inches (24"). The material change shall occur at an internal corner or a
logical transition such as aligning with a window edge or chimney.
Material transition shall not occur at an exterior corner, and
3.
Multiple colors on buildings shall be provided. Muted deeper tones, as
opposed to vibrant primary colors, shall be the dominant colors. Color
palettes for all new structures, coded to the home elevations, shall be
submitted for approval, and
4. Gutters and downspouts shall be integrated into the color scheme of the
home and be painted, or of an integral color, to match the trim color.
MAIL AND NEWSPAPERS
Guidelines: Mailboxes shall be located so that they are easily accessible to residents. They shall
also be architecturally compatible with the homes.
R-10 and R-
14
All of the following are required:
1. Mailboxes shall be clustered and located so as to serve the needs of
USPS while not adversely affecting the privacy of residents;
2. Mailboxes shall be lockable consistent with USPS standard;
3. Mailboxes shall be architecturally enhanced with materials and details
typical of the home's architecture; and
4. Newspaper boxes shall be of a design that reflects the character of the
home.
HOT TUBS, POOLS, AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT
Guidelines: Hot tubs, pools, and mechanical equipment shall be placed so as to not negatively
impact neighbors.
R-10 and R-
14
Hot tubs and pools shall only be located in back yards and designed to
minimize sight and sound impacts to adjoining property. Pool heaters and
pumps shall be screened from view and sound insulated. Pool equipment
must comply with codes regarding fencing.
UTILITIES
R-10 and R-
14
Utility boxes that are not located in alleyways or away from public gathering
spaces shall be screened with landscaping or berms.
DUMPSTER/TRASH/RECYCLING COLLECTION AREA
R-10 and R-
14
Both of the following are required:
1.
Trash and recycling containers shall be located so that they have
minimal impact on residents and their neighbors and so that they are
not visible to the general public; and
2.
A screened enclosure in which to keep containers shall be provided or
garages shall be built with adequate space to keep containers. Screened
enclosures shall not be located within front yards.
F. COTTAGE HOUSE REQUIREMENTS:
1. Site Design:
UNIT LOT CONFIGURATION: The parent site and unit lot configuration should be designed to
encourage neighbor-to-neighbor interaction, community building, and balance the need for
privacy.
Guidelines: Developments shall create pedestrian oriented environments and amplify the
mutual relationship between housing units, open space, and pedestrian amenities, while also
protecting the privacy of individuals.
Standards:
All zones
Unit lots should be oriented toward common open space area or community
building; when not achievable, unit lots should be oriented toward a right-of-
way.
PARKING AND GARAGES: The minimization of the visual impact of parking and garages
contributes to creating communities that are oriented to people and pedestrians, as opposed
to automobiles.
Guidelines: The visual impact of parking areas and garages shall be minimized. All forms of
parking shall be located in a manner that minimizes the presence of the parking area and
associated structures and shall not be located at the end of view corridors unless appropriately
screened. When possible, alley access is encouraged.
All zones
All of the following apply:
1. Parking shall be provided in designated areas within the parent site
but not at individual unit lots;
2. Shared garages on the parent site are allowed, provided the
regulations of RMC 4-4-080 are met;
3. Parking structures, i.e., garages and carports, shall be detached and
set back from the private yard space by at least six feet (6');
4. Shared garages and carports shall not exceed forty four feet (44') in
width, and shall maintain an eight-foot (8') separation from any
cottages;
5. Parking design shall be of similar design and character to the cottages.
Carports are permitted when a solar panel is incorporated into the
design;
6. Architectural detail that is consistent with the architectural character
of the cottage house development shall be incorporated in the garage
design, including but not limited to trim, columns, and/or corner
boards;
7. Shared garages shall not be located further than one hundred sixty
feet (160') from any of the housing units to which it is assigned;
8. When shared garages are proposed, each unit must have garage space
assigned to it;
9. Surface parking of more than two (2) spaces, visible from a public
right-of-way (not including alleys) or adjacent to single-family uses or
zones, shall be screened; and
10. Parking structures and surface parking shall not be located between
the common open space and the cottage units.
2. Open Space:
OPEN SPACE: Open space is a significant element in the design and livability of a cottage house
development and should create opportunities for social interaction, community building, good
physical health, and personal reflection. Common open areas and semi-private space are
favored and prioritized over purely private space.
Landscaping:
All zones
See RMC 4-4-070, Landscaping.
Individual unit lots are exempt from RMC 4-4-070F3, Front Yard Trees
Required When Street Trees Are Not Located Within the Right-of-Way
Abutting a Front Yard.
Standards for Common Open Space:
All zones
Above ground drainage facilities (i.e., ponds, swales, ditches, rain gardens,
etc.) shall not be counted towards the common open space requirement.
Required to provide common open space as follows:
1. For each unit in the development, three hundred fifty (350) square feet
of common open space shall be provided.
2. Open space shall be designed as a common green located within the
development and shall include picnic areas, and spaces for passive
recreational activities such as outdoor cooking, picnicking, walking,
biking, observing nature, and/or active recreational activities, such as
playgrounds, bocce ball, and pickleball;
3. Open space(s) shall be accessible to all cottages. For sites one acre or
smaller in size, open space(s) shall be no less than thirty feet (30') in any
dimension. For sites larger than one acre in size, open space(s) shall be
no less than forty feet (40') in any dimension. For all sites, to allow for
variation, open space(s) of less than the minimum dimensions (thirty
feet (30') or forty feet (40'), as applicable) are allowed; provided, that
no dimension is less than eight feet (8') in width and when all open
spaces are averaged, the applicable dimension requirement is met;
4. Grass-crete or other pervious surfaces may be used in the common
open space for the purpose of meeting the one hundred fifty feet (150')
distance requirement for emergency vehicle access but shall not be
used for personal vehicle access or to meet off-street parking
requirements; and
5. Common open space areas shall have a maximum slope of five percent
(5%); and
6. Obstructions, such as retaining walls and fences, shall be strategically
placed so as not to reduce usable open space.
Standards for Private Yards:
All zones
Each individual cottage shall have a private yard that is at minimum two
hundred fifty (250) square feet in size with no dimension less than eight feet
(8') in width. Front yard porches and backyard patios and reciprocal use
easements may be included in the calculation of private yard.
Community Buildings:
All zones
Developments with twenty four (24) or more cottages are required to provide
at least one community building for indoor gatherings. Design elements, such
as roof pitch, architecture, materials, and colors, shall be similar to that of the
cottages within the development.
Sidewalks and Pedestrian Easements:
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. Sidewalks shall be provided throughout the cottage house
development. The sidewalk may disconnect from the road, provided it
continues in a logical route throughout the development;
2. Front yards shall have entry walks that are a minimum width of four
feet (4'); and
3. Sidewalks shall be used to connect common open space, common
buildings, and to provide access to cottages. They shall be a minimum of
four feet (4') in width and made of concrete, or porous material such as:
porous paving stones, crushed gravel with soil stabilizers, or paving
blocks with planted joints. When possible, sidewalks connecting to
parks and green spaces shall be located at the edge of the common
open space to allow a larger usable green and easy access to cottages.
3. Residential Design:
PRIMARY ENTRY: Cottages with a visually prominent front entry, including architectural
character and landscape design, foster the sense that the community is oriented to pedestrians.
Features like porches and stoops at the front entry provide opportunity for social interaction
and can contribute to a sense of place for residents. Additionally, porches work to minimize the
appearance of bulk by breaking up the facade.
Guidelines: Entrances to cottages shall be a focal point and allow space for social interaction.
Front doors shall face the common open area or a street and be on the facade closest to the
street.
Standards:
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. The primary front entry should be abutting and oriented toward a
common open space; when not achievable, the cottage shall have a
primary entry and covered porch oriented toward a right-of-way;
2. The entry shall include a porch or stoop with a minimum depth of five
feet (5') and minimum height twelve inches (12") above grade; and
3. Unit lots should be oriented toward common open space area; when
not achievable, unit lots should be oriented toward a right-of-way.
FACADE MODULATION: The modulation of facades creates an appearance of variety, as well as
visual breaks that help to create visual interest.
Guidelines: Buildings shall not have monotonous facades along public areas. Cottages shall
include articulation along public frontages; the articulation may include the connection of an
open porch to the building, a dormer facing the street, or a well-defined entry element.
All zones
Both of the following are required:
1. The primary building elevation oriented toward common open space or
right-of-way shall have at least one articulation or change in plane of at
least two feet (2') in depth; and
2. A minimum of one side articulation that measures at least one foot (1')
in depth shall occur for all facades facing streets or common open
spaces.
WINDOWS AND DOORS: Windows and front doors are an integral part of the architectural
character of a cottage and when they incorporate architectural elements of the cottage and
they contribute to the overall balance and integration of the building form. Additionally, when
they represent a significant amount of the facade of a cottage, they amplify the sense that the
community is oriented to people.
Guidelines: Windows and front doors shall serve as an integral part of cottage character.
Primary windows shall be proportioned vertically rather than horizontally. Vertical windows
may be combined to create a larger window area. Front doors shall be a focal point of the
cottage and be in scale with the home. All doors shall be of the same character as the home.
Standards:
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. Primary windows shall be proportioned vertically, rather than
horizontally;
2. Vertical windows may be combined to create a larger window area;
3. All doors shall be made of wood, fiberglass, metal, or glass and trimmed
with three and one-half inches (3 1/2") minimum head and jamb trim
around the door;
4. Screen doors shall be allowed in combination with any door type listed
above are above;
5. Primary entry doors shall face a common open area or street, and shall
be paneled or have inset windows; and
6. Sliding glass doors shall not be permitted along a frontage elevation or
an elevation facing a pedestrian easement.
SCALE, BULK, AND CHARACTER: Residential communities are intended for people and cottages
that have appropriate scale and bulk contribute to the sense of orientation to people. Variety in
the character of cottages helps to minimize visual monotony while helping to foster a
perception of uniqueness of place.
Guidelines: A diverse yet complementary streetscape shall be provided by using elevations and
models that demonstrate a variety of floor plans, home sizes, and character.
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. The primary building form shall be the dominating form and elements
such as porches, principal dormers, or other significant features shall
not dominate;
2. Primary porch plate heights shall be one story. Stacked porches are
allowed; and
3. To differentiate the same models and elevations, different colors shall
be used; and
4. No more than two (2) of the same model and elevation shall be built
within the same cluster and the same model and elevation shall not be
abutting, adjacent, or diagonal.
ROOFS: Roof forms and profiles are an important component in the architectural character of
cottages and contribute to the massing, scale, and proportion of the home. Roofs also provide
opportunity to create variety, especially for cottages of the same model.
Guidelines: Roofs shall represent a variety of forms and profiles that add character and relief to
the landscape of the neighborhood. The use of bright colors, as well as roofing that is made of
material like gravel and/or a reflective material, is discouraged.
Standards:
All zones
Both of the following are required:
1. A variety of roofing colors shall be used within the development and all
roof material shall be fire retardant; and
2. Cottage developments shall use a variety of roof forms appropriate to
the style of the home.
EAVES: The design of eaves and overhangs act as unifying elements in the architectural
character of a home. When sized adequately and used consistently, they work to create
desirable shadows that help to create visual interest especially from blank, unbroken wall
planes.
Guidelines: Eaves should be detailed and proportioned to complement the architectural style
of the home.
Standards:
All zones
Both of the following are required:
1. Eaves shall be at least twelve inches (12") with horizontal fascia or fascia
gutter at least five inches (5") deep on the face of all eaves.
2. Rakes on gable ends must extend a minimum of two inches (2") from
the surface of exterior siding materials.
ARCHITECTURAL DETAILING: Architectural detailing contributes to the visual appeal of a
cottage and the community. It helps to create a desirable human scale and a perception of a
quality, well-designed home.
Guidelines: Architectural detail shall be provided that is appropriate to the architectural
character of the house, including but not limited to detailing like trim, columns, and/or corner
boards.
Standards:
All zones All of the following are required:
1. Three and one-half inches (3 1/2") minimum trim surrounds all windows
and details all doors;
2. At least one of the following architectural details shall be provided on
each home: shutters, knee braces, flower boxes, or columns;
3. Where siding is used, metal corner clips or corner boards shall be used
and shall be at minimum two and one-half inches (2 1/2") in width and
painted. If shutters are used, they shall be proportioned to the window
size to simulate the ability to cover them;
4. If columns are used, they shall be round, fluted, or strongly related to
the home’s architectural style. Six inches by six inches (6" x 6") posts
may be allowed if chamfered and/or banded. Exposed four inches by
four inches (4" x 4") and six inches by six inches (6" x 6") posts are
prohibited; and
5. If one siding material is used on any side of the cottage that is at least
two (2) stories, a horizontal band that measures at least eight inches
(8") is required between the first and second story.
MATERIALS AND COLOR: The use of a variety of materials and color contributes to the sense of
diversity of housing stock in the cottage community.
Guidelines: A diversity of materials and color shall be used throughout the community. A
variety of materials that are appropriate to the architectural character of the neighborhood
shall be used. A diverse palette of colors shall be used to reduce monotony of color or tone.
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. Acceptable exterior wall materials are: wood, cement fiberboard,
stucco, stone, and standard sized brick three and one-half inches by
seven and one-half inches (3 1/2" x 7 1/2") or three and five-eighths
inches by seven and five-eighths inches (3 5/8" x 7 5/8"). Simulated
stone, wood, stone, or brick may be used to detail cottages;
2. When more than one material is used, changes in a vertical wall, such as
from wood to brick, shall wrap the corners no less than twenty four
inches (24"). The material change shall occur at an internal corner or a
logical transition such as aligning with a window edge or chimney.
Material transition shall not occur at an exterior corner;
3. Multiple colors on buildings shall be provided. Color palettes for all new
structures, coded to the home elevations, shall be submitted for
approval;
4. Abutting, adjacent, and diagonal cottages shall be of differing color.
Color palettes for all new cottages, coded to the home elevations, shall
be submitted for approval; and
5. Gutters and downspouts shall be integrated into the color scheme of
the home and be painted, or of an integral color, to match the trim
color.
MAIL AND NEWSPAPERS:
Guidelines: Mailboxes shall be located so that they are easily accessible to residents. They shall
also be architecturally compatible with the cottages.
All zones
All of the following are required:
1. Mailboxes shall be clustered and located so as to serve the needs of
USPS while not adversely affecting the privacy of residents;
2. Mailboxes shall be lockable consistent with USPS standards; and
3. Mailboxes shall be architecturally enhanced with materials and details
typical of the home’s architecture.
MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT:
Guidelines: Mechanical equipment shall be placed so as to not negatively impact neighbors.
All zones Mechanical equipment shall only be located in the rear and side yards.
UTILITIES:
All zones All surface and roof-top equipment shall be screened or enclosed from public
view.
DUMPSTER/TRASH/RECYCLING COLLECTION AREA:
All zones
Both of the following are required:
1. Trash and recycling containers shall be located so that they have
minimal impact on residents and their neighbors and so that they are
not visible to the general public; and
2. A screened enclosure in which to keep containers shall be provided or
garages shall be built with adequate space to keep containers. Screened
enclosures shall not be located within front yards. In addition, see RMC
4-4-090, Refuse and Recyclables Standards, for additional requirements.
D
EXHIBIT D
RMC 4-2-116
4-2-116 (Reserved)ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT RESIDENTIAL DESIGN STANDARDS:
A. PURPOSE:
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are intended to create affordable, flexible housing opportunities that
take advantage of the City’s existing infrastructure while addressing the need for increased housing
choices that reflect changing lifestyles and environmental concerns.
The purpose of this Section is to encourage development that enhances quality of life by encouraging
new residential development to produce neighborhoods of well-designed homes and promote and
facilitate ADU construction in new and existing developed areas, while preserving neighborhood
character and ensuring minimal disruption to surrounding property owners.
This Section lists elements that are required to be included in all ADU development in the zones stated
in subsection B of this Section. Each element includes both standards and guidelines. Standards are
provided for predictability. These standards specify a prescriptive manner in which the requirement can
be met. Guidelines for each element are provided for flexibility. These guidelines provide direction for
those who seek to meet the required element in a manner that is different from the standards.
1. The determination as to the satisfaction of the requirement through the use of the guidelines is to be
made by the Community and Economic Development Administrator when no other permit or approval
requires Hearing Examiner review.
2. When it has been determined that the proposed manner of meeting the design requirement through
guidelines is sufficient, that design requirement shall be considered satisfied.
B. APPLICABILITY:
1. This Section shall apply to ADUs in the following zones: Residential-4 (R-4), Residential-6 (R-6),
Residential-8 (R-8), Residential-10 (R-10), and Residential-14 (R-14).
2. If the primary structure where the ADU is proposed does not comply with the adopted architectural
detailing standards adopted in the residential design standards (RMC 4-2-115E3), the primary structure
shall be brought to proportional compliance prior to the issuance of ADU building permits.
a. The amount invested in physical improvements to reduce or eliminate the nonconformity related to
the architectural detailing shall be determined by multiplying the valuation of the ADU, as determined
by the City, by ten percent (10%).
b. The Department shall evaluate and approve the allocation of the required investment in bringing the
primary structure into compliance based on the above formula and RMC 4-2-115E3. (Ord. 6002, 12-14-
2020)
C. REQUIREMENTS:
WINDOWS AND DOORS: Windows and front doors are an integral part of the
architectural character of a home and, when they incorporate architectural
elements of the home, they contribute to the overall balance and integration of the
building form. Additionally, when they represent a significant amount of the facade
of a home, they amplify the sense that the community is oriented to people.
Guidelines: Windows and doors shall serve as an integral part of the character of
the home. Primary windows shall be proportioned vertically rather than
horizontally. Vertical windows may be combined together to create a larger window
area. Front doors shall be a focal point of the dwelling and be in scale with the
home. All doors shall be of the same character as the home and architecturally
consistent with the doors on the primary structure.
Standards:
R-10 and
R-14
All of the following are required for new ADU construction:
1. Primary windows shall be proportioned vertically, rather than
horizontally;
2. Vertical windows may be combined together to create a larger
window area;
3. All doors shall be made of wood, fiberglass, metal, or glass and
trimmed with three and one-half inches (3 1/2") minimum
head and jamb trim around the door;
4. Sliding glass doors are not permitted along a frontage
elevation or an elevation facing a pedestrian easement.
SCALE, BULK, AND CHARACTER: Residential communities are intended for people
and homes that have appropriate scale and bulk to contribute to the sense of
orientation to people.
Guidelines: The ADU shall visually demonstrate that it is accessory, or subordinate,
to the primary structure by its reduced scale and bulk.
Standards:
R-4, R-6,
R-8, R-
10, and
R-14
The ADU shall be architecturally compatible with significant
architectural details of the primary structure, dominating forms, and
design elements, such as eaves, roof pitch, roof form, porches,
principal dormers, materials, and other significant architectural
features.
EAVES: The design of eaves and overhangs act as unifying elements in the
architectural character of a home. When sized adequately and used consistently,
they work to create desirable shadows that help to create visual interest especially
from blank, unbroken wall planes.
Guidelines: Eaves should be detailed and proportioned to complement the
architectural style of the home.
Standards:
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
Both of the following are required:
1. Eaves projecting from the roof of the entire building at least
twelve inches (12") with horizontal fascia or fascia gutter at
least five inches (5") deep on the face of all eaves, and
2. Rakes on gable ends must extend a minimum of two inches
(2") from the surface of exterior siding materials.
R-10 and
R-14
The following is required: Eaves shall be at least twelve inches (12")
with horizontal fascia or fascia gutter at least five inches (5") deep on
the face of all eaves.
ARCHITECTURAL DETAILING: Architectural detailing contributes to the visual appeal
of a home and the community. It helps create a desirable human scale and a
perception of a quality, well-designed home.
Guidelines: The ADU shall visually demonstrate a clear relationship with the primary
structure so that the two (2) structures are architecturally compatible. Architectural
detail shall be provided that is consistent with the architectural character of the
primary structure; detailing like materials and color, fenestration, trim, columns,
eaves, and/or corner boards shall reflect the architectural character of the primary
structure.
Standards:
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
If one siding material is used on any side of the dwelling that is two
(2) stories or greater in height, a horizontal band that measures at
least eight inches (8") is required between the first and second story.
Additionally, one of the following is required:
1. Three and one-half inches (3 1/2") minimum trim surrounds all
windows and details all doors; or
2. A combination of shutters and three and one-half inches (3
1/2") minimum trim details all windows, and three and one-
half inches (3 1/2") minimum trim details on all doors.
R-10 and
R-14
All of the following are required:
1. Three and one-half inches (3 1/2") minimum trim surrounds all
windows and details all doors;
2. At least one of the following architectural details shall be
provided on each home: shutters, knee braces, flower boxes,
or columns;
3. Where siding is used, metal corner clips or corner boards shall
be used and shall be at minimum two and one-half inches (2
1/2") in width and painted. If shutters are used, they shall be
proportioned to the window size to simulate the ability to
cover them; and
4. If columns are used, they shall be round, fluted, or strongly
related to the home’s architectural style. Six inches by six
inches (6" x 6") posts may be allowed if chamfered and/or
banded. Exposed four inches by four inches (4" x 4") and six
inches by six inches (6" x 6") posts are prohibited.
MATERIALS AND COLOR: The use of a variety of materials and color contributes to
the sense of diversity of housing stock in the community.
Guidelines: The ADU shall have a consistent design with the primary structure,
including but not limited to the use of the same building materials and color.
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
The ADU shall be of the same building material and color as the
primary structure.
Where masonry siding is proposed at the edge of a facade, it shall
also extend along the adjoining facade no less than twenty four
inches (24"), measured horizontally from the corner of the structure.
Additionally, one of the following is required:
1. A minimum of two (2) colors (body with different color trim is
acceptable), or
2. A minimum of two (2) differing siding materials (horizontal
siding and shingles, siding and masonry or masonry-like
material, etc.). One alternative siding material must comprise a
minimum of thirty percent (30%) of the street-facing facade.
GARAGES: The minimization of the visual impact of garages contributes to creating
communities that are oriented to people and pedestrians, as opposed to
automobiles.
Guidelines: The visual impact of garages shall be minimized, while porches and front
doors shall be the emphasis of the front of the home. Garages shall be located in a
manner that minimizes the presence of the garage and shall not be located at the
end of view corridors. Alley access is encouraged. If used, shared garages shall be
within an acceptable walking distance to the housing unit it is intended to serve.
Standards:
R-4, R-6,
R-8, R-
10, and
R-14
To ensure adequate vehicular maneuvering area, ADUs that
incorporate a garage/carport shall have an obstruction-free area
(inclusive of an alley) for a length based on the width of the garage
doors:
1. Nine-foot (9') garage doors shall be at least twenty-six feet
(26') from the adjacent property line; or
2. Sixteen-foot (16') garage doors shall be at least twenty-four
feet (24') from the adjacent property line.
R-4, R-6,
and R-8
If an attached garage is wider than twenty six feet (26'), at least one
garage door shall be recessed a minimum of four feet (4') from the
other garage door.
The garage doors contain a minimum of thirty percent (30%) glazing,
architectural detailing (e.g., trim and hardware), and are recessed
from the front facade a minimum of five feet (5'), and from the front
porch a minimum of seven feet (7').
E
EXHIBIT E
RMC 4-4-080.F.10.e
e. Parking Spaces Required Based on Land Use:
USE NUMBER OF REQUIRED SPACES
GENERAL:
Uses not specifically identified
in this Section:
Department staff shall determine which of the below
uses is most similar based upon staff experience with
various uses and information provided by the applicant.
The amount of required parking for uses not listed above
shall be the same as for the most similar use listed
below.
Bicycle parking: See minimum requirements in subsection F11 of this
Section.
Parking in Excess of Maximum
Standards:
Maximum ratios for off-street parking facilities may be
exceeded by up to 10% if the applicant implements low
impact development techniques that reduce stormwater
runoff and manages stormwater on site in a way that
exceeds the requirements of surface water management
in RMC 4-6-030.
COMMERCIAL MIXED USES OUTSIDE OF CENTER DOWNTOWN ZONE:
Commercial mixed use with 2
or 3 individual establishments
(except vertical mixed use
developments):
The total requirement for off-street parking facilities shall
be the sum of the requirements for each use computed
separately.
Shopping centers (4 or more
individual commercial
establishments):
A minimum of 2.5 per 1,000 square feet of net floor area
and a maximum of 5.0 per 1,000 square feet of net floor
area. In the UC-1 and UC-2 Zones, a maximum of 4.0
per 1,000 square feet of net floor area is permitted
unless structured parking is provided, in which case 5.0
per 1,000 square feet of net floor area is permitted.
Drive-through retail or drive-through service uses must
comply with the stacking space provisions listed below.
Commercial within vertical
mixed-use developments:
A minimum of 2.5 per 1,000 square feet of net floor area
and a maximum of 5.0 per 1,000 square feet of net floor
area. In the UC-1 and UC-2 Zones, a maximum of 4.0
per 1,000 square feet of net floor area is permitted
unless structured parking is provided, in which case 5.0
per 1,000 square feet of net floor area is permitted.
RESIDENTIAL USES OUTSIDE OF CENTER DOWNTOWN ZONE:
Detached dwellings and
townhouses:
A minimum of 2.0 per dwelling unit, however, 1.0 per
dwelling unit may be permitted for 1 bedroom or less
dwelling units. Tandem parking is allowed.
In addition, if the primary structure on a site where an
accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is proposed does not
meet the City’s minimum parking standards, 1.0
additional off-street parking space is required to obtain
approval.
Attached dwellings in R-10, R-
14, and RMF Zones:
Attached dwellings in R-10, R-14, and RMF Zones1: , A
minimum and maximum of 1.6 per 3 bedroom or large
dwelling unit; 1.4 per 2 bedroom dwelling unit; 1.0 per 1
bedroom or studio dwelling unit. In addition to the
minimum parking stalls required, a minimum 10% of the
total number of required parking spaces shall be
provided for guest parking and located in a common area
accessible by guests.
Attached dwellings in
Commercial Zones:
1.0 per dwelling unit is required. A maximum of 1.75 per
dwelling unit is allowed.
Affordable housing dwelling
units:
A minimum of 1.0 for each 4 dwelling units is required. A
maximum of 1.75 per dwelling unit is allowed.
Middle housing dwelling units: See RMC 4-2-110F, Development Standards for Middle
Housing, for number of required parking spaces.
Accessory dwelling units: See RMC 4-2-110C, Development Standards for
Accessory Dwelling Units, for number of required parking
spaces.
Cottage house developments: A minimum and maximum of 1.6 per cottage house of 3
bedrooms or greater; 1.4 per 2-bedroom cottage house;
1.0 per 1-bedroom cottage house or studio. In addition to
the minimum parking stalls required, a minimum 20% of
the total number of required parking spaces in the
cottage house development shall be provided for guest
parking and located in a common area accessible by
guests.
Manufactured homes within a
manufactured home park:
A minimum of 2.0 per manufactured home site, plus a
screened parking area shall be provided for boats,
campers, travel trailers and related devices at a ratio of
1.0 screened space per 10 units.
Congregate residences: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per sleeping room and
1.0 for the proprietor, plus 1.0 additional space for each
4 persons employed on the premises.
Assisted living: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 space per residential
unit of assisted living, plus dedicated parking spaces for
facility fleet vehicles.
Attached dwellings in RMF, R-
14 and R-10 Zones:
A minimum and maximum of 1.6 per 3 bedroom or large
dwelling unit; 1.4 per 2 bedroom dwelling unit; 1.0 per 1
bedroom or studio dwelling unit. In addition to the
minimum parking stalls required, a minimum 10% of the
total number of required parking spaces shall be
provided for guest parking and located in a common area
accessible by guests.
Attached dwellings within all
other zones:
1.0 per dwelling unit is required. A maximum of 1.75 per
dwelling unit is allowed.
Attached dwelling, income
restricted:
A minimum of 1.0 for each 4 dwelling units is required. A
maximum of 1.75 per dwelling unit is allowed.
Live-work unit, residential unit: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per unit.
Accessory dwelling unit: When accessory to a single-family residence, 1.0 per
unit is required. A maximum of 2.0 per unit is allowed.
ADUs accessory to nonresidential uses are exempt from
additional parking when current parking capacity
exceeds the minimum parking requirement for the
primary use, otherwise 1.0 per unit is required.
ADUs located within 1/4 mile of a mass transit facility, as
defined in RMC 4-2-080, shall be exempt from off-street
parking requirements.
RESIDENTIAL USES IN CENTER DOWNTOWN ZONE:
Attached dwellings: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per unit.
Attached dwellings, income
restrictedAffordable housing
dwelling units:
1.0 for every 4 dwelling units is required. A maximum of
1.75 per dwelling unit is allowed.
Congregate residences: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per 4 sleeping rooms
and 1.0 for the proprietor, plus 1.0 additional space for
each 4 persons employed on the premises.
Assisted living: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 space per residential
unit of assisted living, plus dedicated parking spaces for
facility fleet vehicles.
Detached dwellings (existing
legal):
A minimum of 2.0 per unit.
COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE OF THE CENTER DOWNTOWN ZONE:
Drive-through retail or drive-
through service:
Stacking spaces: The drive-through facility shall be so
located that sufficient on-site vehicle stacking space is
provided for the handling of motor vehicles using such
facility during peak business hours. Typically 5.0
stacking spaces per window are required unless
otherwise determined by the Administrator. Stacking
spaces cannot obstruct required parking spaces or
ingress/egress within the site or extend into the public
right-of-way.
Banks: A minimum of 2.5 per 1,000 square feet of net floor area
and a maximum of 5.0 per 1,000 square feet of net floor
area.
Convalescent centers: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 for every 2 employees
plus 1.0 for every 3 beds.
Day care centers, adult day
care (I and II):
A minimum and maximum of 1.0 for each employee and
2.0 drop-off/pick-up spaces within 100 feet of the main
entrance for every 25 clients of the program.
Hotels and motels: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per guest room plus 1.0
for every 3 employees.
Bed and breakfast houses: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per guest room.
Mortuaries or funeral homes: A minimum and maximum of 10 per 1,000 square feet of
floor area of assembly rooms.
Vehicle sales (large and small
vehicles) with outdoor retail
sales areas:
A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per 5,000 square feet.
The sales area is not a parking lot and does not have to
comply with dimensional requirements, landscaping or
the bulk storage section requirements for setbacks and
screening. Any arrangement of motor vehicles is allowed
as long as:
• A minimum 5-foot perimeter landscaping area is
provided;
• They are not displayed in required landscape areas;
and
• Adequate fire access is provided per Fire Department
approval.
Vehicle service and repair
(large and small vehicles):
A minimum and maximum of 2.5 per 1,000 square feet of
net floor area.
Offices, medical and dental: A minimum and maximum of 5.0 per 1,000 square feet of
net floor area.
Offices, general: A minimum of 2.0 per 1,000 square feet of net floor area
and a maximum of 4.5 parking spaces per 1,000 square
feet of net floor area.
Eating and drinking
establishments and taverns:
A minimum and maximum of 10 per 1,000 square feet of
dining area.
Eating and drinking
establishment combination sit-
down/drive-through
restaurant:
A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per 75 square feet of
dining area.
Retail sales and wholesale
retail sales:
A minimum and maximum of 2.5 per 1,000 square feet of
net floor area, except wholesale retail sales, which is
allowed a maximum of 5.0 per 1,000 square feet of net
floor area if shared and/or structured parking is provided.
Retail marijuana: A minimum of 4.0 and a maximum of 5.0 per 1,000
square feet of net floor area.
Services, on-site (except as
specified below):
A minimum and maximum of 3.0 per 1,000 square feet of
net floor area.
Clothing or shoe repair shops,
furniture, appliance, hardware
stores, household equipment:
A minimum and maximum of 2.0 per 1,000 square feet of
net floor area.
Uncovered commercial area,
outdoor nurseries:
A minimum and maximum of 0.5 per 1,000 square feet of
retail sales area in addition to any parking requirements
for buildings.
Recreational and entertainment uses:
Outdoor and indoor sports
arenas, auditoriums, stadiums,
movie theaters, and
entertainment clubs:
A minimum and maximum of 1.0 for every 4 fixed seats
or 10 per 1,000 square feet of floor area of main
auditorium or of principal place of assembly not
containing fixed seats, whichever is greater.
Bowling alleys: A minimum and maximum of 2.0 per alley.
Dance halls, dance clubs, and
skating rinks:
A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per 40 square feet of
net floor area.
Golf driving ranges: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per driving station.
Marinas: A minimum and maximum of 2.0 per 3 slips. For private
marina associated with a residential complex, then 1.0
per 3 slips. Also 1 loading area per 25 slips.
Miniature golf courses: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per hole.
Other recreational: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per occupant based
upon 50% of the maximum occupant load as established
by the adopted Building and Fire Codes of the City of
Renton.
Travel trailers: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per trailer site.
COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES WITHIN THE CENTER DOWNTOWN ZONE:
Convalescent center, drive-
through retail, drive-through
service, hotels, mortuaries,
indoor sports arenas,
auditoriums, movie theaters,
These uses follow the standards applied outside the
Center Downtown Zone.
entertainment clubs, bowling
alleys, dance halls, dance
clubs, and other recreational
uses:
Retail marijuana: A minimum of 4.0 and a maximum of 5.0 per 1,000
square feet of net floor area.
All commercial uses allowed in
the CD Zone except for the
uses listed above:
A maximum of 1.0 space per 1,000 square feet of net
floor area, with no minimum requirement.
INDUSTRIAL/STORAGE ACTIVITIES:
Airplane hangars, tie-down
areas:
Parking is not required. Hangar space or tie-down areas
are to be utilized for necessary parking. Minimum and
maximum parking for offices associated with hangars is
5.0 per 1,000 square feet.
Manufacturing and fabrication,
laboratories, and assembly
and/or packaging operations:
A minimum of 1.0 per 1,000 square feet of net floor area
and a maximum of 1.5 spaces per 1,000 square feet of
net floor area (including warehouse space).
Self service storage: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per 3,500 square feet of
net floor area. Maximum of 3.0 moving van/truck spaces
is permitted.
Outdoor storage area: A minimum and maximum of 0.5 per 1,000 square feet of
area.
Warehouses and indoor
storage buildings:
A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per 1,500 square feet of
net floor area.
PUBLIC/QUASI-PUBLIC ACTIVITIES:
Religious institutions: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 for every 5 seats in the
main auditorium; however, in no case shall there be less
than 10.0 spaces. For all existing institutions enlarging
the seating capacity of their auditoriums, 1.0 additional
parking space shall be provided for every 5 additional
seats provided by the new construction. For all
institutions making structural alterations or additions that
do not increase the seating capacity of the auditorium,
see “outdoor and indoor sports arenas, auditoriums,
stadiums, movie theaters, and entertainment clubs.”
Medical institutions: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 for every 3 beds, plus
1.0 per staff doctor, plus 1.0 for every 3 employees.
Cultural facilities: A minimum and maximum of 40 per 1,000 square feet.
Public post office: A minimum and maximum of 3.0 for every 1,000 square
feet.
Secure community transition
facilities:
A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per 3 beds, plus 1.0 per
staff member.
Schools:
Elementary and junior high: A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per employee. In
addition, if buses for the transportation of students are
kept at the school, 1.0 off-street parking space shall be
provided for each bus of a size sufficient to park each
bus.
Senior high schools: public,
parochial and private:
A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per employee plus 1.0
space for every 10 students enrolled. In addition, if buses
for the private transportation of children are kept at the
school, 1.0 off-street parking space shall be provided for
each bus of a size sufficient to park each bus.
Colleges and universities, arts
and crafts schools/studios,
and trade or vocational
schools:
A minimum and maximum of 1.0 per employee plus 1.0
for every 3 student rooming units, plus 0.5 space for
every full-time student not residing on campus. In
addition, if buses for transportation of students are kept
at the school, 1.0 off-street parking space shall be
provided for each bus of a size sufficient to park each
bus.
F
EXHIBIT F
RMC 4-7-090
4-7-090 UNIT LOT SUBDIVISIONS:
A. PURPOSE:
This Section is intended to allow the creation of unit lots for townhouse, middle housing, and cottage
house development through established subdivision procedures while generally only applying
development standards to the parent site as a whole rather than to individual unit lots, as discussed in
subsection E of this Section, Exceptions.
B. APPLICABILITY:
The provisions of this Section shall only apply to subdivisions in the following cases:
1. New Townhouse Development: Subdivisions in the R-10, R-14, RMF, and CV zones intended for the
purpose of new townhouse development.
2. Existing Townhouse Development: Subdivisions in the R-10, R-14, RMF, and CV zones when the
existing townhouse developments have has received a Certificate of Occupancy before October 17,
2016.
3. New and Existing Middle Housing Development: Subdivisions in the RC, R-1, R-4, R-6, and R-8 zones
intended for the purpose of new or existing middle housing development.
34. Cottage House Developments: Subdivisions in the R-4, R-6, R-8, R-10, and R-14 zones intended for
the purpose of new single-family development, including existing single-family dwellings when
integrated into proposed cottage house developments.
C. PRINCIPLES OF ACCEPTABILITY:
1. Parent Site: The whole parent site shall comply with all development standards as though it were a
standalone lot.
2. Access: The parent site shall have direct vehicular access to a public street. Each unit lot shall have
direct vehicular access to either a public street or a unit lot drive, in conformance with or private
roadway (see RMC 4-6-060K, Unit Lot Drives).
3. Physical Characteristics: A proposed subdivision may be denied because of the presence of flood,
inundation, wetland conditions, steep slopes, unstable soils, mineshafts, or other unsuitable site
characteristics. Construction of protective improvements may be required as a condition of approval,
and such improvements shall be noted on the final plat.
4. Drainage: Make adequate provision for drainage ways, streets, alleys, other public ways, water
supplies and sanitary wastes.
D. SCOPE AND PROCESS:
1. Short Subdivision: Unit lot subdivisions of nine (9) or fewer unit lots shall be processed as short
subdivisions, and subject to all provisions of RMC 4-7-070, Detailed Procedures for Short Subdivisions,
unless otherwise specified by this Section.
2. Subdivision: Unit lot subdivisions of ten (10) or more unit lots shall be processed as subdivisions, and
subject to all provisions of RMC 4-7-080, Detailed Procedures for Subdivision, unless otherwise specified
by this Section.
3. Site Plan Review: Unit lot subdivisions shall be subject to RMC 4-9-200, Master Plan and Site Plan
Review; however, RMC 4-9-200C2b, SEPA Exempt Development, shall not apply.
E. EXCEPTIONS FOR INDIVIDUAL UNIT LOTS:
1. Residential Development Standards: Individual unit lots created for townhouses, middle housing,
andor cottage house developments are exempt from the following standards of RMC 4-2-110A,
Development Standards for Residential Zoning Designations (Primary and Attached Accessory
Structures): maximum net density, minimum lot size, minimum lot width, minimum lot depth, yard
setbacks, maximum building coverage, and maximum impervious surface area.
Individual unit lots created for cottage house development are subject to the provisions of RMC 4-2-
110G, Development Standards for Residential Development (Cottage House Development).
2. Landscaping:
a. Townhouse Development: Individual unit lots are exempt from the following subsections of
Section 4-4-070, Landscaping:
i. RMC 4-4-070F1, Street Frontage Landscaping Required;
ii. RMC 4-4-070F2, Street Trees and Landscaping Required Within the Right-of-Way on Public
Streets; and
iii. RMC 4-4-070F3, Front Yard Trees Required When Street Trees Are Not Located Within the
Right-of-Way Abutting a Front Yard.
b. Middle Housing Development: Individual unit lots are exempt from RMC 4-4-070F3, Front Yard
Trees Required When Street Trees Are Not Located Within the Right-of-Way Abutting a Front Yard.
bc. Cottage House Development: Individual unit lots are exempt from RMC 4-4-070F3, Front Yard
Trees Required When Street Trees Are Not Located Within the Right-of-Way Abutting a Front Yard.
3. Parking:
a. Townhouse Development: The number of parking spaces required for attached dwellings
pursuant to RMC 4-4-080F10d, Parking Spaces Required Based on Land Use, may be averaged and
dispersed among unit lots or within the parent site; however, at least one parking space shall be
provided within each unit lot.
b. Middle Housing Development: The number of parking spaces required for middle housing
pursuant to RMC 4-2-110F.12, Parking and Driveway Standards, may be averaged and dispersed
among unit lots or within the parent site.
bc. Cottage House Development: The number of parking spaces required for cottage house
development pursuant to RMC 4-4-080.F.10.d, Parking Spaces Required Based on Land Use, may
be averaged and dispersed within the parent site; provided, that at least one (1) parking space is
provided for each unit lot.
4. Access:
a. Townhouse Development: Primary access for individual unit lots may be from a public alley.
b. Middle Housing Development: Vehicle access is only required for the parent site and not
individual unit lots. Primary access for individual unit lots may be from a public alley.
bc. Cottage House Development: Vehicle access is only required for the parent site and not
individual unit lots.
5. Existing Nonconforming Developments: Legally established existing townhouses, middle housing,
and single-family housing intended for cottage house developments that are nonconforming with
respect to development standards (e.g., maximum net density) shall be considered conforming for the
purpose of this Section and may be subdivided pursuant to this Section; provided, that as conditions of a
unit lot subdivision approval the City may require that any nonconforming development standard be
brought into compliance to the extent feasible, as determined by the Administrator.
F. UNIT LOT SUBDIVISION REQUIREMENTS:
1. Unit Lots: Parent sites developed or proposed to be developed with attached townhouse dwellings,
middle housing, or cottage houses development may be subdivided into unit lots and the remainder of
the parent site shall be platted as one or more tracts. The whole parent site shall meet applicable
development standards. Any private open space or private amenities for a dwelling unit shall be
provided on the same unit lot as the dwelling unit.
2. Siting of Unit Lots: Unit lot subdivisions that propose to incorporate one or more unit lot drives, (refer
pursuant to RMC 4-6-060K, Unit Lot Drives) , shall site unit lots as follows:
a. For unit lot drives serving six (6) unit lots or less: At least one (1) unit lot shall be situated
towards a public street with nothing other than open space between the public right-of-way and
the unit lot.
b. For unit lot drives serving seven (7) unit lots or more: At least two (2) unit lots shall be situated
towards a public street with nothing other than open space between the public right-of-way and
the unit lots.
3. Parent Site: Prior to a unit lot subdivision or any subsequent platting actions, additions or
modifications to the structure(s), the applicant shall demonstrate that the whole parent site will comply
with applicable standards and requirements of this Title (i.e., the parent site shall be reviewed as though
it is a single lot without any unit lots or tracts within). For example, building coverage of the parent site
shall include all qualifying structures within the development, including those located or proposed to be
located upon individual unit lots. Portions of the parent site not subdivided for individual unit lots shall
be platted as a tract and owned in common by the owners of the individual unit lots, or by a
homeowners’ association comprised of the owners of the individual unit lots.
4. Density: The density of the parent site shall not exceed the maximum net density of the zone, except
for middle housing, which shall conform to the maximum number of dwelling units allowed pursuant to
RMC 4-2-110F.6, Maximum Dwelling Units per Legal Lot. Only one (1) dwelling unit shall be located on a
unit lot.
5. Design and Open Space Standards:
a. Townhouse Development: RMC 4-2-115, Residential Design and Open Space Standards, as
applied to the R-10 and R-14 zones shall apply to unit lot subdivisions within the RMF and CV
zones. Unit lot subdivisions within the RMF and CV zones shall be exempt from RMC 4-3-100,
Urban Design Regulations.
b. Middle Housing and Cottage House Development: See RMC 4-2-115, Residential Design and
Open Space Standards.
6. Homeowners’ Association and Covenants:
a. Covenants and Homeowners’ Association: Prior to the recording of the plat, the applicant shall
provide final covenants, declarations and restrictions in a form satisfactory to the City Attorney,
and shall record the document with the King County Recorder.
b. Maintenance of Common Facilities: All common open space and facilities, private utility
infrastructure, exterior building facades and roofs, and other physical improvements to the land, as
determined by the Administrator, shall be maintained in perpetuity by the homeowners’
association, unless otherwise agreed to by the City. The covenants, declarations and restrictions
shall provide authority for the City, after providing reasonable written notice to the homeowners’
association and opportunity to perform required maintenance, to recover any costs incurred by the
City to maintain private infrastructure or common areas due to a failure of the homeowners’
association to adequately maintain privately owned improvements. In order to ensure that the City
can recover its costs for performing required maintenance, the City may file a lien against the
property or accept other appropriate security approved by the City.
7. Timing: Site development and building construction may commence upon approval of a site plan and
issuance of a building permit(s) for such construction and prior to final subdivision approval and
recording if all applicable permits and approvals have been obtained by the applicant. However, no
dwelling unit or unit lot may be sold, transferred, occupied or conveyed prior to final subdivision
approval and recording.
8. Recorded Plat: Notes shall be placed on the plat recorded with the King County Recorder to
acknowledge the following:
a. The title of the plat shall include the phrase “Unit Lot Subdivision”;
b. Subsequent platting actions, additions or modifications to the structure(s) may not create or
increase any nonconformity of the parent site as a whole; and
c. The individual unit lots are not separate building sites and additional development of the
individual unit lots may be limited as a result of the application of development standards to the
parent site.
G
EXHIBIT G
RMC 4-11-040
4-11-040 DEFINITIONS D:
A. DANCE CLUB: Any facility, restricted to adults over twenty one (21) years of age, at which dancing
occurs, as a primary form of entertainment. This definition excludes adult entertainment businesses,
entertainment clubs, and gaming/gambling facilities, dance halls and other establishments conducting
public dances as defined in RMC 5-13-1.
B. DANCE HALL: Any place where a public dance, as defined in RMC 5-13-1, is conducted without
restriction on age, or restricted to minors only. Dance halls are further regulated under RMC Title 5 and
require a license to operate. This definition excludes adult entertainment businesses, dance clubs,
entertainment clubs, and gaming/gambling facilities.
C. DANGEROUS BUILDING: As defined by the “Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous
Buildings.”
D. DATA CENTER: A facility used primarily for off-site storage of computer systems and associated
components including applications and secure data. Some data centers may include maintenance areas
and a small office. Data centers may be occupied by single or multiple tenants, but typically have a small
number of employees and visitors. See RMC 4-11-230, WAREHOUSING.
E. DAY CARE CENTER: A day care operation licensed by the State of Washington (WAC 388-73-014), for
thirteen (13) or more children in any twenty four (24) hour period, or any number of children in a
nonresidential structure. This definition does not include adult day care/health.
F. DAY CARE, FAMILY, HOME: A day care operation licensed by the State of Washington (WAC 388-73-
014), caring for twelve (12) or fewer children in any twenty four (24) hour period within the caregiver’s
place of residence.
G. DAYLIGHTING: Restoration of a culverted or buried watercourse to a surface watercourse.
H. DEDICATION: A deliberate appropriation of land by its owner for any general and public uses,
reserving to himself/herself no other rights than such as are compatible with the full exercises and
enjoyment of the public uses to which the property has been devoted.
I. DEED OF DEDICATION: A formal dedication of right-of-way or easement to the City, to be approved by
City Council, the Hearing Examiner, the Public Works Administrator or designee, or the Community and
Economic Development Administrator or designee.
J. DEMOLITION WASTE: Solid waste resulting from the demolition or razing of buildings, roads and other
human-made structures. Demolition waste includes, but is not limited to, concrete, brick, bituminous
concrete, wood and masonry, composition roofing and roofing paper, steel, and minor amounts of other
metals like copper.
K. DENSITY, GROSS: A measure of population, housing dwelling units, number of lots, or building area
related to land area, and expressed as a ratio, i.e., one thousand (1,000) people per square mile, one
dwelling unit per acre, or one thousand (1,000) people lot per square mileacre.
L. DENSITY, NET: A calculation of the number of housing units and/or lots that would be allowed on a
property after 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, and public rights-of-way and legally recorded private access
easements, are subtracted from the gross area (gross acres minus streets and critical areas multiplied by
allowable housing units per acre). Developments meeting the definition of a shopping center are not
required to deduct areas within access easements from the gross site area for the purpose of calculating
net density. Required critical area buffers, streams that have been daylighted including restored riparian
and aquatic areas, public and private alleys, unit lot drives, drives, joint use driveways (and the access
easements upon them), and trails shall not be subtracted from gross acres for the purpose of net density
calculations. 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
which result in a fraction that is one-half (0.50) or greater shall be rounded up to the nearest whole
number. Those density calculations resulting in a fraction that is less than one-half (0.50) shall be
rounded down to the nearest whole number.
M. DEPARTMENT: The Department of Community and Economic Development of the City of Renton,
unless otherwise specified.
N. DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATOR: See ADMINISTRATOR.
O. DEPOSIT AREA: The designated area(s) where refuse, recyclables, and compostables will be stored.
OP. DESIGNATED ZONE FACILITY: Any hazardous waste treatment and storage facility that requires an
interim or final status permit under rules adopted under chapter 70.105 RCW and that is not a
“preempted facility” as defined in RCW 70.105.010.
PQ. DETENTION/RETENTION FACILITIES: Facilities designed either to hold runoff for a short period of
time and then release it to the point of discharge at a controlled rate or to hold water for a considerable
length of time during which the volume is reduced through evaporation, evapotranspiration by plants,
or infiltration into the ground.
QR. DETERMINATION OF NONSIGNIFICANCE (DNS): The written decision by the responsible official of
the lead agency that a proposal is not likely to have a significant adverse environmental impact, and
therefore an EIS is not required (WAC 197-11-310 and 197-11-340). The DNS form is in WAC 197-11-970.
RS. DETERMINATION OF NONSIGNIFICANCE, MITIGATED (MDNS): A DNS that includes mitigation
measures and is issued as a result of the process specified in WAC 197-11-350.
ST. DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE (DS): The written decision by the responsible official of the lead
agency that a proposal is likely to have a significant adverse environmental impact, and therefore an EIS
is required (WAC 197-11-310 and 197-11-360). The DS form is in WAC 197-11-980 and must be used
substantially in that form.
TU. DEVELOPABLE AREA: Land area outside of critical areas, critical area and shoreline buffers, and
public rights-of-way that is otherwise developable.
UV. DEVELOPMENT: The division of a parcel of land into two (2) or more parcels; the construction,
reconstruction, conversion, structural alteration, relocation or enlargement of any structure; any
mining, excavation, landfill or land disturbance and any use or extension of the use of land.
VW. DEVELOPMENT: (This definition for RMC 4-3-050, Critical Areas Regulations, use only.) Any
manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other
structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations or storage of
equipment or materials located within the area of special flood hazard.
WX. DEVELOPMENT: (This definition for RMC 4-3-090, Shoreline Master Program Regulations, use only.)
A use consisting of the construction or exterior alteration of structures; dredging; drilling; dumping;
filling; removal of any sand, gravel or minerals; bulkheading; driving of piling; placing of obstructions; or
any other projects of a permanent or temporary nature which interferes with the normal public use of
the surface of the waters overlying lands subject to the Act at any state of water level. This does not
include dismantling or removing structures if there is no other associated development or
redevelopment.
XY. DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT: A recorded contract entered into by the city and an applicant setting
forth development standards and other provisions governing and vesting a development or use for a
duration of time specified in the contract. May be used to obligate an applicant to fund or provide
services, infrastructure, or other facilities.
YZ. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT: Written permission after appropriate review for type of application from
the appropriate decision-maker authorizing the division of a parcel of land, the construction,
reconstruction, conversion, structural alteration, relocation or enlargement of any structure, utility, or
any use or extension of the use of the land.
ZAA. DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS (for vesting purposes): The following controls placed on
development or land use activities by the City, including but not limited to: Comprehensive Plan Policies,
zoning regulations, subdivision regulations, shoreline management regulations, road design standards,
site development regulations, sign regulations, critical areas regulations, and all regulations and land use
controls that must be satisfied as a prerequisite to obtaining approval of an application for
development. For the purposes of this definition, construction and utility regulations such as
stormwater standards and erosion/sediment control requirements contained in RMC Title IV,
Development Regulations, building standards, fire standards, sewer utility standards, and Health
Department standards are not considered development regulations or land use controls. RMC Title IV
processes and procedures are not considered development regulations or land use controls.
AABB. DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DIRECTOR: The Director of the Development Services Division of the
Department of Community and Economic Development or designee.
BBCC. DISPLAY SURFACE: The area made available by the sign structure for the purpose of displaying
the advertising message.
CCDD. DISPLAY WINDOW: A window in a building facade intended for nonpermanent display of goods
and merchandise.
DDEE. DIVERSION FACILITY: A facility that provides inpatient healthcare for individuals that are self-
admitted or ordered, diverted, or referred from jails, hospitals, doctors or similar treatment facilities or
professionals, or by first responders, including law enforcement, hospital emergency department social
workers, and similar professionals. Services may include an array of inpatient healthcare treatment and
support services including but not limited to screening and assessment, psychological counseling, case
management, crisis management, detox services, substance use and trauma-related treatment services,
behavioral/mental health care, medical isolation, care, or treatment, counseling, respite services, and
various levels of accommodations for sleeping purposes. Some outpatient healthcare services may be
provided. Not included in this definition are congregate residences, assisted living facilities, adult family
homes, group homes, convalescent centers, social service organizations, or homeless services uses.
EEFF. DOCK: A fixed or floating platform extending from the shore over the water.
FFGG. DOUBLE CHECK VALVE ASSEMBLY: See RMC 4-6-100.
GGHH. DOUBLE-WALLED: See RMC 4-5-120G.
HHII. DOWNTOWN BUSINESS DISTRICT: Those uses, buildings, and walkways within the area mapped in
RMC 4-2-080D. In general, the area is bounded at the north by parcel lines near South Second Street, at
the east by the Cedar River and I-405, at the south by parcel lines near South Fourth Street and parcel
lines along South Third Street, and at the west by parcels along Burnett Avenue South and Shattuck
Avenue South.
IIJJ. DRAINAGE AREA: The total area whose drainage water flows to and across the subject property.
JJKK. DREDGING: The removal of earth from the bottom or banks of a body of water.
KKLL. DRIP LINE: A tree’s drip line shall be described by a line projected to the ground from the outer
edge of the tree canopy delineating the outermost extent of foliage in all directions.
LLMM. DRIP LINE, PROTECTED: A tree drip line identified to be retained and preserved as an
undisturbed, vegetated area that fully encompasses the drip line of a protected tree removed in
violation of a land development permit.
MMNN. DRIVE-IN/DRIVE-THROUGH RETAIL OR SERVICE: A business or a portion of a business where a
customer is permitted or encouraged, either by the design of physical facilities or by service and/or
packaging procedures, to carry on business in the off-street parking or paved area accessory to the
business, while seated in a motor vehicle. In some instances, customers may need to get out of the
vehicle to obtain the product or service. This definition shall include but not be limited to drive-in/drive-
through services at eating and drinking establishments, fast-food restaurants, coffee stands, and banks
and pharmacies. This definition excludes vehicle service and repair, vehicle fueling stations, and car
washes.
OO. DRIVEWAY, SHARED: A single driveway serving two (2) or more adjoining lots, parcels, or tracts for
the purposes of vehicular access. New shared driveways shall conform to the provisions of RMC 4-6-
060J, Shared Driveway Standards.
NNPP. DROP-OFF ZONE: A sidewalk area abutting a street intended for passengers to enter or exit
vehicles that are temporarily parked for that purpose.
OOQQ. DWELLING, ATTACHED: A dwelling unit connected to one or more dwellings by common roofs,
walls, or floors or a dwelling unit or units attached to garages or other nonresidential uses. This
definition includes all buildings structures or portions of buildings structures meeting this definition, but
excludes boarding and lodging houses, accessory dwelling units, adult family homes, and group home I
or group home II, as defined herein. Attached dwellings include the following types:
1. Flat: A dwelling unit attached to one or multiple dwelling units by one or more common roof(s),
wall(s), or floor(s) within a building. Typically, the unit’s habitable area is provided on a single level. Unit
entrances are provided from a common internal corridor.
2. Townhouse: A dwelling unit attached to one or more such units by one or more common vertical
walls in which each unit occupies the building from the bottom of the foundation to the roof, has at
least two (2) exterior faces, front and rear ground-level access to the outside, and no unit is located over
another unit. Townhouse units may be multistory.
3. Carriage House: One or more dwelling units built above one or more private garage(s). The attached
garage(s) typically contains vehicles and/or storage for people living in another building as well as
occupants of the carriage house. This definition does not include accessory dwelling units.
4. Garden Style Apartment(s): A dwelling unit that is one of several stacked vertically, with exterior
stairways and/or exterior corridors and surface parking. Parking is not structured and may include
detached carports or garages. Buildings and building entries are oriented toward internal drive aisles
and/or parking lots and not street frontage. There is typically no formal building entry area connected to
a public sidewalk and a public street. Site planning may incorporate structures developed at low
landscaped setbacks.
PPQQRR. DWELLING, DETACHED: A building containing one dwelling unit which is not attached to any
other dwelling by any means except fences, has a permanent foundation, and is surrounded by open
space or yards. Also called aThis definition includes single single-family dwellings and cottages. This
definition does not include accessory dwelling units.
QQSS. DWELLING UNIT: A structure or portion of a structure designed, occupied, or intended for
occupancy as a single residential unit providing complete, independent living facilities with separated
living quarters, a kitchen, sleeping, and sanitary facilities provided for the exclusive use of a single
household. For the purposes of this definition, “sanitary facilities” shall include a sink, a toilet, and a
shower or bathtub. Dwelling units (attached or detached) include the following types:
1. Apartment(s): Multiple attached dwelling units in a residential building in which units may be
separately rented or owned. Unit entrances are provided from a common internal corridor and
individual units’ habitable area is provided on a single level.
2. Accessory dwelling unit(s): An independent subordinate dwelling unit that is located on the same lot
as a single-family dwelling, courtyard apartment, stacked flat, duplex, triplex, fourplex, and/or
townhouse, or on the same lot as a principal building actively operated with a nonresidential use by a
religious institution or social service organization. This may include units over detached garages.
3. Cottage(s): A detached, single-family dwelling unit that is oriented around a shared common open
space within a unit lot subdivision.
4. Courtyard Apartment(s): Attached dwelling units arranged on two or three sides of a yard or court.
5. Garden Style Apartment(s): A dwelling unit that is one of several stacked vertically, with exterior
stairways and/or exterior corridors and surface parking. Parking is not structured and may include
detached carports or garages. Buildings and building entries are oriented toward internal drive aisles
and/or parking lots and not street frontage. There is typically no formal building entry area connected to
a public sidewalk and a public street.
7. Middle Housing: Attached dwelling units that are compatible in scale, form, and character with single-
family dwellings, having a permanent foundation, and containing two or more attached or stacked
homes, including duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, townhouses, stacked flats, and courtyard apartments.
8. Single-Family: A detached dwelling unit which is not attached to any other dwelling unit(s) by any
means except fences, has a permanent foundation, and is surrounded by open space or yards. This
definition does not include accessory dwelling units or manufactured homes.
9. Townhouse(s): A dwelling unit attached to one (1) or more such units by one or more common
vertical walls in which each unit occupies the building from the bottom of the foundation to the roof,
has at least two (2) exterior faces, front and rear ground-level access to the outside, and no unit is
located over another unit. Townhouse units may be multistory.
RR. DWELLING UNIT, ACCESSORY: An independent subordinate dwelling unit that is located on the
same lot as, but not within, either a single-family dwelling or a principal building actively operated with a
nonresidential use by a religious institution or social service organization. This may include units over
detached garages.
H
EXHIBIT H
RMC 4-11-180
4-11-180 DEFINITIONS R:
A. RAILROAD YARDS: An area for the switching, storing, assembling, distributing, consolidating, moving,
repairing, weighing or transferring of cars, trains, engines, locomotives, and rolling stock.
B. REAR YARD: See YARD REQUIREMENT.
C. REASONABLE USE: A legal concept that has been articulated by Federal and State courts in regulatory
takings issues.
D. RECEIVING BODIES OF WATER: Creeks, streams, rivers, lakes, storm sewers, wetlands and other
bodies of water into which surface waters are directed, either naturally or in manmade ditches or open
and closed systems.
E. RECOGNIZED HIGHER RISK: The handling, processing or storage of flammable, explosive, blasting or
toxic agents and their related processes and/or activities which are generally considered as high hazard
occupancy by agencies and/or publications, which include but are not limited to the Washington
Surveying and Rating Bureau, the American Insurance Association as per its Fire Prevention Code and
National Building Code, as the same may be amended from time to time as posing a higher risk on its
neighbors and/or adjacent or nearby properties natural or manmade waterways, or which may tend to
endanger environmental qualities before special actions are taken to mitigate adverse characteristics.
F. RECREATION: (This definition for RMC 4-3-090, Shoreline Master Program Regulations, use only.) The
refreshment of body and mind through forms of play, amusement or relaxation. The recreational
experience may be active, such as boating, fishing, and swimming, or may be passive such as enjoying
the natural beauty of the shoreline or its wildlife. This definition includes both public and private
facilities.
G. RECREATION, ACTIVE: Leisure-time activities sometimes requiring equipment and taking place at
prescribed places, sites, or fields. Active recreation includes such activities as swimming, boating, tennis,
fishing, soccer, etc.
H. RECREATION, PASSIVE: Activities that involve relatively inactive or less energetic activities, such as
walking, sitting, reading, picnicking, and card, board, or table games.
I. RECREATIONAL FACILITIES, INDOOR: A place 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.
J. RECREATIONAL FACILITIES, OUTDOOR: A place designed and equipped for the conduct of sports and
leisure-time activities with little or no enclosed space. Examples include: private (commercial or private
club) outdoor tennis courts, private outdoor swimming pools, batting cages, amusement parks,
miniature golf courses, golf driving ranges, and playgrounds. This definition excludes marinas, parks, golf
courses and outdoor sports arenas.
K. RECREATIONAL VEHICLE: A vehicle that is:
1. Built on a single chassis; and
2. Four hundred (400) square feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projection; and
3. Designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light duty truck; and
4. Designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary quarters for recreational,
camping, travel, or seasonal use.
This definition includes, but is not limited to, motor homes and travel trailers.
L. RECREATIONAL VEHICLE: (This definition is for flood hazard regulations in RMC 4-3-050 use only.) A
vehicle that is:
1. Built on a single chassis;
2. Four hundred (400) square feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projection;
3. Designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light duty truck; and
4. Designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary living quarters for
recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.
M. RECYCLABLES: Newspaper, uncoated mixed paper, aluminum, glass and metal food and beverage
containers, polyethylene terepthalate (PET #1) plastic bottles, high density polyethylene (HDPE #2)
plastic bottles, and such other materials that the City and contractor determine to be recyclable.
RECYCLABLES DEPOSIT AREA: In multi-family residences, commercial, industrial and other nonresidential
development, the area(s) where recyclables will be stored.
N. RECYCLING COLLECTION AND PROCESSING CENTER: A facility where collected recyclable items are
brought for sorting, compaction, transfer, and/or processing including changing the form of materials.
O. RECYCLING COLLECTION STATION: A container or containers for the collection of secondhand goods
and recyclable materials.
P. REFUSE: A term synonymous with municipal solid waste (MSW) including all accumulations of waste
matters discarded as of no further value to the owner, such as kitchen and table waste, wrappings and
small discarded containers, and small dead animals weighing not over fifteen (15) pounds, but shall
exclude all manure, sewage, large dead animals, petroleum products, cleanings from public and private
catch basins, washracks or sumps, bulk waste, recyclables, yard waste and special or hazardous wastes.
Q. REGULATED ACTIVITY: (For chapter 4-3 RMC, critical area regulation use only.) All existing and
proposed activities located within a regulated critical area or critical area buffer.
R. REGULATED SUBSTANCES: See RMC 4-5-120G.
S. RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS: Churches, synagogues, temples and other places where gathering for
worship is the principal purpose of the use. Typical accessory uses associated with this use include
licensed day care facilities, playground, community meeting facilities, and private schools, rectory or
convent, and offices for administration of the institution.
T. REMOVAL OF VEGETATION: The actual removal or causing the effective removal through damaging,
poisoning, root destruction or other direct or indirect actions resulting in the death of a tree or other
vegetation.
U. RENTAL UNIT: Any dwelling unit which is occupied pursuant to a lawful rental agreement, oral or
written, express or implied, which was not owned as a condominium unit or cooperative unit on the
effective date of RMC 4-9-040, Condominium Conversions. A dwelling unit in a converted building for
which there has been no acceptance of an offer of sale as of October 15, 1979, shall be considered a
rental unit.
V. REPAIR or MAINTENANCE: An activity that restores the character, scope, size, or design of a
serviceable area, structure, or land use to its previously existing, authorized and undamaged condition.
Activities that change the character, size, or scope of a project beyond the original design are not
included in this definition.
W. RESEARCH – SCIENTIFIC (SMALL SCALE): The gathering of data, information, and facts for the
advancement of knowledge. Small scale research is generally sponsored by an organization or
government agency. Facilities may consist of temporary offices, sheds, or structures that have a small
footprint. The uses have only limited impact on the underlying use of the site or environment as
determined by the Community and Economic Development Administrator. Such scientific research may
be conducted in a building or in the field, may include investigation, testing or experimentation for study,
research education, mitigation, and demonstration of scientific principles and may be temporary in
nature.
X. RESTRICTIVE COVENANT: A restriction on the use of land set forth in a formal binding agreement
running with the land and binding upon subsequent owners of the property.
Y. RETAIL SALES: Establishments within a permanent structure engaged in selling goods or merchandise
available for immediate purchase and removal from the premises by the general public for personal or
household consumption and rendering services incidental to the sale of such goods. This definition
includes department stores, retail shops, grocery stores and large format retailers developing using a
multi-story format. This definition excludes adult retail uses, vehicle sales, wholesale retail, outdoor
retail sales, eating and drinking establishments, and taverns.
Z. RETAIL SALES, OUTDOOR: The display and sale of products and services primarily outside of a building
or structure, including but not limited to garden supplies, tires and motor oil, farmers markets,
manufactured homes, burial monuments, building and landscape materials, lumber yards, vending
machines, and retail product lockers. This definition excludes adult retail uses, or vehicle sales.
AA. RETAIL, WHOLESALE: A retail establishment accessible by the public engaged in selling goods or
merchandise to the general public as well as other retailers, contractors, or businesses, and rendering
services incidental to the sale of such goods, involving a high volume of sales of products in a warehouse
setting, and may include, but is not limited to, membership warehouse clubs that emphasize bulk sales,
“big-box retail,” discount stores, and outlet stores. This definition excludes warehousing, warehousing
and distribution, vehicle sales, outdoor retail sales, and adult retail uses. Wholesale retail is
differentiated from general retail by any of the following characteristics:
1. Items for sale include large, categorized products, e.g., lumber, appliances, household furnishings,
electrical and heating fixtures and supplies, wholesale and retail nursery stock, etc.; and may also include
a variety of carry-out goods (e.g., groceries, household, and personal care products);
2. A large inventory of goods and merchandise is stored on the subject site in high-ceiling warehouse
areas, high-rack displays, and/or outdoor storage areas; and
3. High-volume truck traffic, regular pick-up and delivery of large items, and a designated contractor pick-
up area.
BB. RETAINING WALL: A wall designed to resist lateral earth and/or fluid pressures, including any
surcharge, in accordance with accepted engineering practice. For the purposes of this Title, a “rockery”
or “rock wall” is a type of retaining wall. Structural components of stormwater facilities shall not be
interpreted to be a retaining wall.
CC. RETAINING WALL HEIGHT: The vertical distance measured from the bottom of the footing to the
finish grade at the top of the wall (i.e., upper soil grade).
DD. RETAINING WALL HEIGHT, EXPOSED: The vertical distance measured from the finish grade at the
bottom of the wall (i.e., lower soil grade) to the finish grade at the top of the wall (i.e., upper soil grade).
This height does not include the depth of footing below grade.
EE. RIPARIAN AREA: The upland area immediately adjacent to and paralleling a body of water and is
usually composed of trees, shrubs and other plants. Riparian functions include bank and channel
stability, sustained water supply, flood storage, recruitment of woody debris, leaf litter, nutrients,
sediment and pollutant filtering, shade, shelter, and other functions that are important to both fish a nd
wildlife.
FF. ROADWAY: That portion of a street intended for the accommodation of vehicular traffic, generally
within curb lines.
GG. ROCKERY: One or more courses of rocks stacked against an exposed soil face to protect the soil face
from erosion and sloughing. The bottom course of rocks bears on the foundation soils and the upper
rocks bear partially or entirely on the rocks below. A rockery is also known as a “rock wall.”
HH. ROOFS, PITCHED: A shed, gabled or hipped roof having a slope or pitch of at least one foot (1') rise
for each four feet (4') of horizontal distance in the direction of the slope or pitch of the roof.
II. ROUTINE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT: Tree and other vegetation management undertaken as part of
a regularly scheduled program of maintenance and repair of property.
I
EXHIBIT I
RMC 4-11-200
4-11-200 DEFINITIONS T:
A. TANK VEHICLE: A vehicle other than a railroad tank car or boat, with a cargo tank mounted thereon
or built as an integral part thereof used for the transportation of flammable or combustible liquids, LP-
gas, or hazardous chemicals. Tank vehicles include self-propelled vehicles and full trailers and semi-
trailers, with or without motive power, and carrying part or all of the load.
B. TAVERN: An establishment used primarily for the serving of liquor by the drink to the general public
that holds a Washington State tavern license. Establishments in this category limit their dedicated dining
area to less than fifteen percent (15%) of the total establishment and restrict entry to the premises to
persons twenty-one (21) years of age and older. This definition excludes restaurants, cafes, fast-food
establishments, microbreweries with restaurants, and espresso stands.
C. TAX LOT SEGREGATION: The separation of two (2) or more legal lots, as defined in RMC 4-11-120,
into individual tax parcels.
D. TAXI STAND: A facility for pick-up and drop-off of taxi patrons, typically characterized by an area for
queuing passengers and taxis.
E. TELECOMMUNICATIONS: The transmission, between or among points specified by the user, of
information of the user’s choosing, without change in the form or content of the information as sent
and received.
F. TEMPORARY HOMELESS ENCAMPMENT: A group of homeless persons temporarily residing out of
doors on a site with services provided by a sponsor and supervised by a managing organization.
1. Managing Organization, Temporary Homeless Encampment: A group or organization that has the
capacity to organize and manage a temporary homeless encampment. A temporary encampment
“managing organization” may be the same entity as the temporary homeless encampment sponsor.
2. Sponsor, Temporary Homeless Encampment: A religious institution which:
a. Owns the property or has an ownership interest in the property, for which a temporary
homeless encampment is to be located; and
b. Has an agreement with the temporary homeless encampment managing organization to
provide basic services and support for the residents of a temporary homeless encampment and
liaison with the surrounding community; and
c. Joins with the managing organization in an application for a temporary homeless encampment
permit.
A “sponsor” may be the same entity as the managing organization.
G. TEMPORARY OR MANUFACTURED BUILDINGS USED FOR CONSTRUCTION: Construction site
buildings housing the office of construction/development management and sales staff for duration of
construction.
H. TEMPORARY USE: A use of limited term. Temporary uses may be established under special
circumstances for some temporary time period.
I. TENANT: Any person who occupies or has a leasehold interest in a rental unit under a lawful rental
agreement whether oral or written, express or implied.
J. TERRACE: A relatively level step constructed in the face of a graded slope surface for drainage and
maintenance purposes.
K. THRESHOLD LIMIT VALUE (TLV): The concentration of certain airborne materials representing
conditions under which it is believed and adopted by the American Conference of Governmental
Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) that nearly all workers may be repeatedly exposed day after day without
adverse effects.
L. TOE OF SLOPE: A point or line at the low point of a natural slope or slope created through an
excavation or cut where the lower surface changes to horizontal or meets the existing ground surface.
The toe of a slope may be a distinct topographic break in slope gradient or the point in which the
lowermost limit of a steep slope is inclined at less than the gradient of that steep slope for a horizontal
distance of a minimum of twenty five feet (25').
M. TOP OF SLOPE: A point or line on the upper surface of a natural slope or slope created through an
excavation or cut where it changes to horizontal or meets the existing ground surface. The top of a slope
may be a distinct topographic break in slope gradient or the point in which the uppermost limit of a
steep slope is inclined at less than the gradient of that steep slope for a horizontal distance of a
minimum of twenty five feet (25').
1. Top of Excavation or Cut: The upper surface point where the excavation meets the original ground
surface.
2. Top of Embankment: The upper surface point or line to which the side slope changes to horizontal or
meets original ground surface.
N. TOW TRUCK: A vehicle equipped for and used in the business of towing or transporting vehicles. All
tow trucks must display a valid Department of Licensing permit or decal that indicates the tow truck
class.
1. Class A: Trucks that are capable of towing and recovery of passenger cars, pickup trucks, small
trailers, or equivalent vehicles.
2. Class B: Trucks that are capable of towing and/or recovery of medium-size trucks, trailers, motor
homes, or equivalent vehicles.
3. Class E: Tow trucks designed and intended to transport vehicles entirely on a truck bed.
O. TOW TRUCK OPERATION: A facility that dispatches tow trucks for hire with no automotive storage
area for impounded vehicles.
P. TOW TRUCK OPERATION/AUTO IMPOUNDMENT YARD: A facility that dispatches tow trucks for hire
with associated automotive storage area for impounded vehicles.
Q. TOXIC SUBSTANCE: Those materials listed and documented by the American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH).
R. TRACT: An area of land that meets one of the following circumstances (wherever in this Title a tract is
required to be created, if an applicant is not pursuing a subdivision then an easement shall be
interpreted to suffice for a tract):
1. A physically separate and distinct property created pursuant to the provisions of this title, or pursuant
to any previous laws governing the subdivision, short subdivision, or segregation of land created
expressly to provide a common benefit or public purpose, including but not limited to land provided for:
stormwater management, critical areas protection, utilities, recreation, or open space. Such tracts shall
be unbuildable, except for the structures and infrastructure necessary to fulfill the common benefit or
public purpose for which the tract was created; or
2. A physically separate and distinct property that was not created pursuant to the provisions of this
Title, nor pursuant to any previous laws governing the subdivision, short subdivision, or segregation of
land. Such tracts shall be unbuildable unless converted into a lot pursuant to the provisions of this Title.
S. TRADE OR VOCATIONAL SCHOOL: A school that provides postsecondary education including
industrial and technical processes and may include continuing education courses as an accessory use.
This definition does not include arts and crafts schools/studios, or other higher education institutions
such as colleges, universities, or professional schools.
T. TRAILER, TRAVEL: See RECREATIONAL VEHICLE.
U. TRANSIT CENTER: Any facility designed for accommodating large numbers of public transportation
passengers to wait, board, and disembark at the intersection of multiple transit routes.
V. TRANSIT STOP, MAJOR: (This definition applies to RMC 4-2-110C, Development Standards for
Accessory Dwelling Units, use only.) A transit stop governed pursuant to the provisions of RCW
36.70A.696(8), which includes any of the following:
1. A stop on a high capacity transportation system funded or expanded under the provisions of
chapter 81.104 RCW;
2. Commuter rail stops;
3. Stops on rail or fixed guideway systems, including transitways;
34. Stops on bus rapid transit routes or routes that run on high occupancy vehicle lanes; or
45. Stops for a bus or other transit mode providing actual fixed route service at intervals of at least
fifteen (15) minutes for at least five (5) hours during the peak hours of operation on weekdays.
W. TRANSIT STOP, MAJOR: (This definition applies to RMC 4-2-110F, Development Standards for Middle
Housing, use only.) A transit stop governed pursuant to the provisions of RCW 36.70A.030(25) which
includes any of the following:
1. A stop on a high capacity transportation system funded or expanded under the provisions of
chapter 81.104 RCW;
2. Commuter rail stops;
3. Stops on rail or fixed guideway systems; or
4. Stops on bus rapid transit routes, including those stops that are under construction.
XV. TRANSITIONAL HOUSING: “Transitional housing” has the same meaning as “transitional housing” in
RCW 84.36.043, and as thereafter amended.
YW. TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT PLAN: A plan developed by the occupant of a building or land
use, or by the developer of a proposed project, designed to provide mechanisms for reducing the
vehicle demand generated by an existing or proposed land use.
ZX. TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM, MULTI-MODAL: A system of transportation consisting of various types
of conveyances, for example, light rail train and bus, or ferry and automobile.
AAY. TREE: A woody perennial usually having one dominant trunk, or, for certain species, a multi-
stemmed trunk system, with a potential minimum height of ten feet (10') at maturity. Any trees listed
on the complete King County Weed List shall not qualify as a tree.
1. Tree, High-Risk: Any tree that has been certified in a written arborist report, prepared by an arborist
with ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ), as possessing the following ISA Tree Risk
Assessment characterizations:
a. The tree has a probable or imminent likelihood of failure; and
b. The tree has a medium or high likelihood of impact; and
c. The consequences of failure for the tree are significant or severe.
2. Tree, Landmark: A tree with a caliper of twenty four inches (24") or greater, except for big leaf
maples, black cottonwoods, and red alder trees, which qualify as landmark trees with a caliper of thirty
inches (30") or greater.
3. Tree, Protected: A significant tree identified to be retained, or a new tree required to be planted, as a
condition of approval for a land development permit.
4. Tree, Significant: A tree with a caliper of at least six inches (6"), except alder or cottonwood trees,
which qualify as significant trees with a caliper of eight inches (8") or greater. Trees certified as high-risk
shall not be considered significant.
5. Tree, Small Species: A tree with a mature height of thirty feet (30') or less.
6. Tree, Medium Species: A tree with a mature height between thirty feet (30') and fifty feet (50').
7. Tree, Large Species: A tree with a mature height of fifty feet (50') or more.
BBZ. TREE PROTECTION TRACT: A restrictive area where all retained and/or replacement trees are
protected, and development, alteration, or disturbance within the tract, or tree removal, is prohibited
without the explicit approval of the City. Tree protection tracts may contribute to any required open
space.
CCAA. TREE REMOVAL: The removal of a tree, through either direct or indirect actions, including but not
limited to: (1) clearing, damaging or poisoning resulting in a high-risk tree; (2) removal of more than
forty percent (40%) of the live crown; or (3) damage to roots or trunk that is likely to destroy the tree’s
structural integrity.
DDBB. TREE TOPPING: The act of removing whole tops of trees, or large branches and/or trunks from
the tops of trees, and leaving stubs or lateral branches that result in the disfigurement of the canopy.
Tree topping is considered to be tree removal. Other common names for the practice include “hat-
racking,” “lopping,” “heading,” “rounding over,” and “tipping.”
EECC. TREE TRIMMING: The intentional removal of a tree’s branches in order to reduce the live canopy
of the tree by no more than forty percent (40%) during any consecutive twelve (12) months. Trimming
more than forty percent (40%) of a tree’s canopy during any consecutive twelve (12) months shall be
considered “tree topping.”
FFDD. TRUCK TERMINALS: A building or area in which semitrailers, including tractor and/or trailer units
and other trucks are parked, stored for seventy two (72) hours or less, and dispatched. This facility may
include incidental servicing and washing facilities.