HomeMy WebLinkAboutCritical Areas ExemptionCITY OF RENTON Ι PERMIT SERVICES
EXEMPTION FROM CRITICAL AREAS REGULATIONS SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS
SPECIFIC CODE SECTION (S) RELATED TO THIS DOCUMENT
RMC 4-3-050 Critical Areas Regulations
RMC 4-8 Permits—General and Appeals
PURPOSE
To allow certain activities to intrude into a critical area or required buffer subject to the City providing a letter of exemption of any listed conditions or requirements.
APPLICATION SCREENING
A Pre-Submittal screening may be required prior to formal Land Use Review. The screening will be performed electronically via an FTP link that your Project Manager will provide to you.
After you upload your submittal documents the Project Manager will review the submittal materials to ensure that requested revisions or missing items have been updated and/or corrected.
If all required submittal items are provided and complete, unless waived by the Project Manager, staff will take in the application for official review.
ELECTRONIC FILE STANDARDS
All documents MUST be submitted electronically. Specific file naming conventions for submitted plans are required to
facilitate the electronic plan review process. Failure to adhere to the sample file naming format listed in the Electronic
File Standards may result in a request for resubmittal and/or delay the plan review process, deeming the application
incomplete.
COMPLETE APPLICATION REQUIRED
In order to accept your application, each of the numbered items must be submitted at the same time. Determination that an application is complete indicates only that the application
is ready for review on its merits, not that the City will make a favorable decision on the application.
APPLICATION SUBMITTAL HOURS
Applications should be submitted to Planning Division staff electronically, not in person. Please email or call your assigned Project Manager to submit your application. If you have
any Planning related questions you may reach out to Planning Customer Service at 425-430-7294 or planningcustomerservice@rentonwa.gov .
ADDITIONAL PERMITS
Additional permits from other agencies may be required. It is the applicant’s responsibility to obtain these other approvals. Information regarding these other requirements may be found
at https://apps.oria.wa.gov/opas
TIME FRAME
The Administrator will review your request for modification and issue a written decision typically within a week or two
from submittal. A public hearing is not required unless there is an appeal filed.
SOME KEY THINGS TO REMEMBER
City Staff or other agencies may request additional information during the review and decision-making process.
It is important that the applicant submit the requested material quickly to avoid delays in the process.
Any time spent gathering data and/or additional city review period will increase the time required to process the application.
SUBMITTAL CHECKLIST
The submittal checklist is not an exhaustive list of submittal requirements and may be modified in cases where additional information is required to complete the review of an application.
The applicant should contact the assigned Development Engineer if there are any questions regarding submittal requirements.
1. Waiver Form: A Waiver Form will be provided to you by City Staff during the Pre-Submittal Review. The Waiver Form should be submitted with the land use application.
2. Land Use Permit Master Application Form: The standardized application form used for the majority of land use permit applications including, but not limited to, the following:
Owner, applicant, and contact person names, addresses and telephone numbers;
Notarized signatures of all current property owners;
Name of the proposed project;
Project/property address;
King County Assessor’s tax account number;
Existing and proposed land uses;
Existing and, if applicable, proposed Comprehensive Plan map designation;
Existing and, if applicable, proposed zoning designation;
Site area;
Estimated project cost
Whether or no the project site contains any environmentally sensitive areas; and
Property legal description.
Note: The application must have notarized signatures of ALL current property owners listed on the Title Report. If the property owner is a corporation, the authorized representative
must attach proof of signing authority on behalf of the corporation. The legal description of the property must be attached to the application form.
3. Fees: The application must be accompanied by the required application fee (see Fee Schedule). Please call 425- 430-7294 to verify the exact amount required. Checks should be made
out to the City of Renton and cannot be accepted for over the total fee amount. Credit cards may also be used to pay required application fees. Fees are paid at Cashier on the 1st Floor
City Hall.
4. Critical Areas Exemption Form (attached): If the project consists of one of the listed activities eligible for SEPA exemption.
5. Neighborhood Detail Map: Please provide a map drawn at a scale of 1" = 100' or 1" = 200' (or other scale ap- proved by the Planning Division) to be used to identify the site location
on public notices and to review compatibility with surrounding land uses. The map shall identify the subject site with a much darker perimeter line than sur- rounding properties and
include at least two cross streets in all directions showing the location of the subject site relative to property boundaries of surrounding parcels. The map shall also show: the property's
lot lines, lot lines of surrounding properties, boundaries of the City of Renton (if applicable), north arrow (oriented to
the top of the plan sheet), graphic scale used for the map, and City of Renton (not King County) street names for all streets shown. Please ensure all information fits on a single map
sheet.
6. Site Plan: Please provide a fully-dimensioned plan sheet drawn at a scale of 1"=20' (or other scale approved by the Planning Division). We prefer the site plan be drawn on one sheet
of paper unless the size of the site requires several plan sheets to be used. If you are using more than a single plan sheet, please indicate connecting points on each sheet. The Site
Plan should show the following:
Name of proposed project
Date, scale, and north arrow (oriented to the top of the paper/plan sheet)
Drawing of the subject property with all property lines dimensioned and names of adjacent streets
Widths of all adjacent streets and alleys
Location of all existing public improvements including, but not limited to, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, median islands, street trees, fire hydrants, utility poles, etc., along the full
property frontage
Location and dimensions of existing and proposed:
Structures
parking, off-street loading space, curb cuts and aisle ways
fencing and retaining walls
free-standing signs and lighting fixtures
refuse and recycling areas
utility junction boxes and public utility transformers
storage areas and job shacks/sales trailers/model homes
Setbacks of all proposed buildings from property lines
Location and dimensions of all easements referenced in the title report with the recording number and type of easement (e.g. access, sewer, etc.) indicated
Location and dimensions of natural features such as streams, lakes, required buffer areas, open spaces, and wetlands
Ordinary high water mark and distance to closest area of work for any project located within 200-feet from a lake or stream.
7. Topography Map: Please provide a plan showing the site’s existing contour lines at five-foot vertical intervals and planimetric features extending ten feet beyond the property boundaries.
8. Tree Retention/Land Clearing (Tree Inventory) Plan: Please provide a fully dimensioned plan drawn by a certified arborist or a licensed landscape architect if ANY trees or vegetation
are to be removed or altered. The plan shall be based on finished grade, drawn at the same scale as the project site plan with the northern property line at the top of the paper, and
clearly show the following:
All property boundaries and adjacent streets, location and dimensions of rights- of-way, utility lines, fire hydrants, street lighting, and easements;
Location of all areas proposed to be cleared;
Location, species, and sizes of trees on or immediately abutting the site. This requirement applies only to trees with a caliper of at least six inches (6"), or an alder or cottonwood
tree with a caliper of at least eight inches (8"), when measured at fifty-four inches (54") above grade;
Clearly identify trees to be retained and to be removed;
Future building sites and drip lines of any trees which will overhang/ overlap a construction line. Where the drip line of a tree overlaps an area where construction activities will
occur, this shall be indicated on the
plan; and
Show critical areas and buffers.
9. Arborist Report: Please provide an arborist report by a certified Arborist or a licensed Landscape Architect that correlates with the Tree Retention/ Land Clearing Plan and addresses
the following:
Identification scheme used for each tree (e.g. tree number)
Species and size of each tree (caliper measured at 54 inches above grade)
Reason(s) for any tree removal (e.g. poor health, high risk of failure due to structure, defects, unavoidable isolation (high blow down potential), unsuitability of species, etc.) and
for which no reasonable alternative action is possible (pruning, cabling, etc.)
For trees proposed to be retained, a complete description of each tree' s health, condition, and viability
For trees proposed to be retained, a description of the method(s)used to determine the limits of
disturbance (e.g., critical root zone, root plate diameter, or a case- by- case basis description for individual
trees)
A description of the impact of necessary tree removal to the remaining trees, including those in a grove or on abutting properties;
The suggested location and species of supplemental trees to be used when required. The report shall include planting and maintenance specifications; and
An analysis of retained trees according to Priority of Tree Retention Requirements specified in RMC 4-4-
130H.1.b.
10. Wetland Assessment: Please provide a map and a report if ANY wetlands are located on the subject property or within 100 feet of the subject property. The wetland report/delineation
must be prepared by a qualified professional and include the information specified in RMC 4-8-120D.23. In addition, if any alteration to the wetland or buffer is proposed, a wetland
mitigation plan is also required. See RMC 4-8-120D.23 for plan content requirements.
11. Standard Stream or Lake Study: Please provide a report containing the information specified in RMC Section 4-
8-120D.19. In addition, if the project involves an unclassified stream, a supplemental stream or lake study is also required. If any alteration to a water-body or buffer is proposed
a supplemental stream or lake study and mitigation plan are also required.
12. Flood Hazard Data: Please provide a scaled plan showing the nature, location, dimensions, and elevations of the area in question; existing or proposed structures, fill, storage of
materials, and drainage facilities. Also indicate the following:
Elevation in relation to mean sea level of the lowest floor (including basement) of all structures;
Elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any structure has been flood-proofed;
Certification by a registered Professional Engineer or Architect the flood-proofing methods criteria in RMC
4-3-050G.4.c have been met; and
Description of the extent to which a watercourse will be altered or relocated as a result of proposed
development.
13. Biological Assessment/Critical Areas Study: Please provide if the project is located in a designated floodplain (RMC 4-8-120D.2).
14. Habitat Data Report: If the project site contains or abuts a critical habitat per RMC 4-3-050F.2.b, please provide a report containing the information specified in RMC 4-8-120D.8.
15. Geotechnical Report: Please provide a study prepared and stamped by a State of Washington licensed Professional Engineer including soils and slope stability analysis, boring and
test pit logs, and recommendations on slope setbacks, foundation design, retaining wall design, material selection, and all other pertinent elements.
16. Letter of Understanding Geologic Risk: Please provide a letter from the applicant, or the owner of the site, stating that he or she understands and accepts the risk of developing
in an unstable area and that he or she will advise, in writing, any prospective purchasers of the site, or any prospective purchasers of structures or portions of structures on the site,
of the unstable potential of the area.
17. Drainage Control Plan: Please provide a plan complying with the requirements of RMC 4-6-030, Drainage and Water Quality (Surface Water) Standards, and the most current City of Renton
Surface Water Design Manual. The plans shall be stamped by a civil engineer licensed in the State of Washington.
18. Drainage Report: Please provide a Technical Information Report (TIR) complying with the requirements of RMC 4-6-030, Drainage and Water Quality (Surface Water) Standards, and the
most current edition of City of Renton Surface Water Design Manual. The report (TIR) shall be stamped by a civil engineer licensed in the State of Washington and shall contain the following:
a. Section 1: Project Overview
b. Section 2: Conditions and Requirements Summary
c. Section 3: Offsite Analysis
d. Section 4: Flow Control and Water Quality Facility Analysis and Design
e. Section 5: Conveyance System Analysis and Design
f. Section 6: Special Reports and Studies
g. Section 7: Other Permit
h. Section 8: CSWPPP Analysis and Design
i. Section 9: Bond Quantities, Facility Summaries, and Declaration of Covenant
j. Section 10: Operations and Maintenance Manual.
19. Grading Plan, Detailed: Please provide a 22" x 34" plan drawn by a State of Washington licensed Civil Engineer at a scale of 1" to 40' (horizontal feet) and 1" to 10' (vertical feet)
(or other size plan sheet or scale (approved by the Planning Division Plan Review Project Manager) clearly indicating the following:
Graphic scale and north arrow
Dimensions of all property lines, easements, and abutting streets
Location and dimension of all on-site structures and the location of any structures within fifteen feet (15’)
of the subject property or which may be affected by the proposed work
Accurate existing and proposed contour lines drawn at five foot (5'), or less, intervals showing existing ground and details of terrain and area drainage to include surrounding off-site
contours within one hundred feet (100') of the site;
Location of natural drainage systems, including perennial and intermittent streams and the presence of
b
ordering vegetation
Setback areas and any areas not to be disturbed, including the location, size and species of all protected trees on site. Protected trees shall have the approximate drip line shown.
The method of tree protection during grading and construction shall be shown. If grade changes in the vicinity of the protected trees are necessary, the method of reconciling the drip
line with the finished elevation shall be included (see RMC 4- 4-130, Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations)
Finished contours drawn at five foot (5') intervals as a result of grading;
Proposed drainage channels and related construction with associated underground storm lines sized and connections shown; and
General notes addressing the following (may be listed on the cover sheet):
Area in square feet of the entire property.
Area of work in square feet.
Both the number of tons and cubic yards of soil to be added, removed, or relocated.
Type and location of fill origin, and destination of any soil to be removed from site.
Finished floor elevation(s) of all structures, existing and proposed. (Ord. 4835, 3-27-2000; Ord. 5304, 9- 17-2007)
RESOURCES
City of Renton Forms
Electronic File Standards
Note: This handout shall not be used as a substitute for codes and regulations. The Applicant is responsible for compliance with all codes and regulations, whether or not described
in this document.
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INFORMATION
CITY OF RENTON Ι PERMIT SERVICES
CRITICAL AREAS EXEMPTION (FOR SEPA EXEMPT ACTIVITIES)
PROJECT NAME:
APPLICANT NAME:
PHONE:
PARCEL NUMBER:
PROJECT ADDRESS
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT:
TYPE OF CRITICAL AREA:
WORK OCCURS IN CRITICAL AREA
WORK OCCURS IN BUFFER
PURPOSE
Exempt activities provided with a letter of exemption from the Administrator may intrude into a critical area or required buffer (Subject to any conditions or requirements provided by
the Administrator).
APPLICABILITY OF EXEMPTIONS
The following is a general list of activities that may be exempt from the critical areas regulations. More specific descriptions of the activities are contained in the Critical Areas
Regulations. Some of the listed activities may not be exempt in certain critical areas. The Planning Division will evaluate you request according to the City of Renton Critical Areas
Regulations in RMC 4-3-050C, J, L, and N.
I AM REQUESTING A CRITICAL AREAS EXEMPTION FOR ONE OF MORE OF THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES
Conservation, Enhancement, and Related Activities:
Conservation or preservation of soil, water, vegetation, fish and other wildlife
Enhancement activities as defined in chapter 4-11 RMA D1
Any critical area, buffer restoration, or other mitigation activities that have been approved by the City
Research and Site Investigation:
Nondestructive education and research
Site investigative work necessary for land use application submittals such as surveys, soil logs, etc.
Agricultural, Harvesting, and Vegetation Management:
Harvesting wild foods
Existing/Ongoing agricultural activities1
Removal of dead, terminally diseased, damaged, or dangerous ground cover or hazardous trees which have
been certified as such by a forester, registered landscape architect, or certified arborist
Surface Water Alteration
New surface water discharges provided the discharge meets the requirements of the Storm and Surface Water Drainage Regulations 1 2 3
New or modified regional storm water facilities 1 2 3
Flood hazard reduction 1 3 4 6
Roads, Parks, Public and Private Utilities:
Relocation of Existing Utilities out of Critical Area and Buffer
Maintenance, operation, and repair of existing parks, trails, roads, facilities, and utilities 1 2
Installation, construction, replacement, or operation of utilities, traffic control, and walkways within existing improved right-if-way or easement 1 2
Modification of existing utilities and streets by 10% or less 1 2 5
Management and essential tree removal for public or private utilities, roads and public parks 1
Wetland Disturbance, Modification, and Removal
Any activity in small Category 3 wetlands 1 2 3 4 5
Temporary disturbances of a wetland due to construction activities that do not include permanent filling 1 2 3 5
Maintenance and Construction for Existing Uses and Facilities:
Remodeling, replacing, or removing existing structures 1 2
Normal and routine maintenance and repair of any existing public or private uses and facilities where no alteration of the critical area and required buffer or additional fill materials
will be placed 1 2
Construction activity connected with an existing single family residence or garage, provided that no portion of the new work occurs closer to the critical area or required buffers than
the existing structure and/or the developed area of the site 1 2
Existing activities which have not been changed, expanded or altered provided they comply with the applicable requirements of chapter 4-10 RMC 1
Emergency Activities:
Removal of trees or ground cover by a City department, agency, public, or private utility in an emergency situation
Public interest emergency use, storage, and handling of hazardous materials by governmental
organizations in an Aquifer Protection Area
ADDITIONAL PERMITS:
Additional permits from other agencies may be required. It is the applicant’s responsibility to obtain these other approvals. Information regarding these other requirements may be found
at http://apps.ecy.wa.gov/opas/
1Exemption does not apply in Aquifer Protection Areas 2Exemption does not apply in Flood Hazard Areas 3Exemption does not apply in Geologic Hazard Areas 4Exemption does not apply in
Habitat Conservation Areas 5Exemption does not apply in Streams and Lakes: Class 2 to 4 6Exemption does not apply in Wetlands
I, the undersigned, declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Washington, that to the best of my knowledge the above information is true and complete.
APPLICANT’S SIGNATURE: DATE:
FOR CITY USE ONLY
EXEMPTION GRANTED EXEMPTION DENIED
Matthew Herrera
Planning Director
Planning Division
Date
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL: