HomeMy WebLinkAboutSEPA checklist BC Support Structure Height 7.29.22Environmental Checklist for BC Zone School Use Support Structure Height
26 August 2022 Page 1
SEPA ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
Purpose of checklist:
Governmental agencies use this checklist to help determine whether the environmental impacts of your proposal are
significant. This information is also helpful to determine if available avoidance, minimization, or compensatory
mitigation measures will address the probable significant impacts, or if an environmental impact statement will be
prepared to further analyze the proposal.
Instructions for applicants:
This environmental checklist asks you to describe some basic information about your proposal. Please answer each
question accurately and carefully, to the best of your knowledge. You may need to consult with an agency specialist or
private consultant for some questions. You may use “not applicable” or “does not apply” only when you can explain why it does not
apply and not when the answer is unknown. You may also attach or incorporate by reference additional studies and/or reports.
Complete and accurate answers to these questions often avoid delays with the SEPA process, as well as later in the
decision-making process.
The checklist questions apply to all parts of your proposal, even if you plan to do them over a period of time or on different
parcels of land. Attach any additional information that will help describe your proposal or its environmental effects. The
agency to which you submit this checklist may ask you to explain your answers or provide additional information
reasonably related to determining if there may be significant adverse impact.
Instructions for Lead Agencies:
Additional information may be necessary to evaluate the existing environment, all interrelated aspects of the proposal,
and an analysis of adverse impacts. The checklist is considered the first, but not necessarily the only source of
information needed to make an adequate threshold determination. Once a threshold determination is made, the lead
agency is responsible for the completeness and accuracy of the checklist and other supporting documents.
Use of checklist for nonproject proposals:
For nonproject proposals (such as ordinances, regulations, plans, and programs), complete the applicable parts of
sections A and B, plus the SUPPLEMENTAL SHEET FOR NONPROJECT ACTIONS (part D). Please completely answer all
questions that apply and note that the words “project,” “applicant,” and “property or site” should be read as “proposal,”
“proponent,” and “affected geographic area,” respectively. The lead agency may exclude (for nonprojects) questions in
Part B (Environmental Elements) that do not contribute meaningfully to the analysis of the proposal.
Department of Community Development
33325 - 8th Avenue South
Federal Way, WA 98003-6325
253-835-2607; Fax 253-835-2609
www.cityoffederalway.com
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26 August 2022 Page 2
A. BACKGROUND
1. Name of proposed project, if applicable:
Community Business zoning code text amendment: pertaining to height for minor and supporting
structures for school uses. Adding a new note regarding maximum permissible height to FWRC
19.220.040.
2. Name of applicant:
City of Federal Way
3. Address and phone number of applicant and contact person:
33325 - 8th Avenue South
Federal Way, WA 98003-6325
Contact: Jim Harris, Senior Planner
Phone: 253/835-2652 jim.harris@cityoffederalway.com
4. Date checklist prepared:
26 August 2022
5. Agency requesting checklist:
City of Federal Way
6. Proposed timing or schedule (including phasing, if applicable):
Council adoption of proposed Code revisions in late 2022 – early 2023
7. Do you have any plans for future additions, expansion, or further activity related to or connected with this proposal?
If yes, explain.
No
8. List any environmental information you know about that has been prepared, or will be prepared, directly related to
this proposal.
None
9. Do you know whether applications are pending for governmental approvals of other proposals directly affecting the
property covered by your proposal? If yes, explain.
None
10. List any government approvals or permits that will be needed for your proposal, if known.
Planning Commission recommendation and City Council approval.
11. Give brief, complete description of your proposal, including the proposed uses and the size of the project and site.
There are several questions later in this checklist that ask you to describe certain aspects of your proposal. You do
not need to repeat those answers on this page. (Lead agencies may modify this form to include additional specific
information on project description.)
The proposed code text amendment, if approved, would allow minor and supporting structures as a
functional requirement of school uses in the Community Business (BC) zoning district to exceed the
applicable height limit, provided the Director of Community Development determines that such structures
will not significantly impact adjacent properties. In City of Federal Way, King County WA
The proposed amendment is attached as Attachment 1 to this Checklist.
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12. Location of the proposal. Give sufficient information for a person to understand the precise location of your
proposed project, including a street address, if any, and section, township, and range, if known. If a proposal
would occur over a range of area, provide the range or boundaries of the site(s). Provide a legal description, site
plan, vicinity map, and topographic map, if reasonably available. While you should submit any plans required by
the agency, you are not required to duplicate maps or detailed plans submitted with any permit applications
related to this checklist.
The BC zoning district is located in several areas within the City of Federal Way. The BC zoning
district is primarily located along Pacific Highway South, within the Federal Way City limits. Federal
Way, King County, WA
B. ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS
1. Earth
a. General description of the site
(underline/circle one): Flat, rolling, hilly, steep slopes, mountainous, other _____________
This is a non-project action and there are no project specific actions proposed. The City has a variety
of slopes from steep slopes on the western and eastern boundaries to more gentler slopes located in the
interior of the city.
b. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate percent slope)?
This is a non-project action and there are no project specific actions proposed at this time. The
majority of the BC zoning district portion of the City is relatively flat with slopes generally less than
10%, with some smaller areas with slopes greater than 10 percent. .
c. What general types of soils are found on the site (for example, clay, sand, gravel, peat, muck)? If you know the
classification of agricultural soils, specify them and note any agricultural land of long-term commercial
significance and whether the proposal results in removing any of these soils.
This is a non-project action and there are no project specific actions proposed. There are a variety of
soils located in the City. According to USDA’s Web Soil survey, in order of prevalence, Alderwood
gravelly sandy loam, 8 to 15% (21.5%), followed by Alderwood gravelly sandy loam, 0 to 8% (16.1%),
followed by Everett-Alderwood gravelly sandy loams, 6 to 15% (10.4%), followed by Arents, Alderwood
material, 0 to 6% (9.1%), followed by Arents, Alderwood material 6 to 15% (5.9%), followed by various
other soil types at smaller quantities.
d. Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the immediate vicinity? If so, describe.
This is a non-project action and there are no project specific actions proposed at this time. There is
evidence of recent and historic landslides occurring within the City in steeper-sloped areas.
e. Describe the purpose, type, total area, and approximate quantities and total affected area of any filling,
excavation, and grading proposed. Indicate source of fill.
This is a non-project action. Any excavation, fill, and grading activities would be covered by
existing allowances, limitations and restrictions found in the Federal Way Revised Code.
f. Could erosion occur as a result of clearing, construction, or use? If so, generally describe.
No. This is a non-project action and there are no project specific actions proposed. The proposed
amendments do not alter the protection mechanisms currently in place in the Federal Way Revised
Code.
g. About what percent of the site will be covered with impervious surfaces after project construction (for example,
asphalt or buildings)?
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NA. This is a non-project action. No revision is recommended to zoning designations or limits on
impervious coverages.
h. Proposed measures to reduce or control erosion, or other impacts to the earth, if any:
None. This is a non-project action. Erosion control measures are currently covered by the Federal
Way Revised Code.
2. Air
a. What types of emissions to the air would result from the proposal during construction, operation, and
maintenance when the project is completed? If any, generally describe and give approximate quantities if known.
NA. This is a non-project action and there are no project specific actions proposed at this time.
b. Are there any off-site sources of emissions or odor that may affect your proposal? If so, generally describe.
This is a non-project action.
NA . Airborne emissions occur primarily from motorized vehicles on roadways and from exhaust
from existing structures.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to air, if any.
No measures are proposed in conjunction with this proposed code amendment. Future project
specific actions will be subject to environmental review as required by the SEPA Rules, and will be
evaluated in accordance with all plans, policies, rules, and regulations adopted as a basis for the
exercise of substantive authority under SEPA to approve, condition or deny proposed actions.
3. Water
a. Surface Water
1) Is there any surface water body on or in the immediate vicinity of the site (including year-round and
seasonal streams, saltwater, lakes, ponds, wetlands)? If yes, describe type and provide names. If appropriate,
state what stream or river it flows into.
NA. This is a non-project action and there are no project specific actions proposed. The city of
Federal Way has approximately 6.4 miles of Puget Sound shoreline. In addition, there are a
number of lakes, streams and wetlands located in the city. There are no surface water bodies
within the area proposed for this code amendment.
2) Will the project require any work over, in, or adjacent to (within 200 feet) the described waters? If yes,
please describe and attach available plans.
No. This is a non-project proposal. No construction will be directly related to this proposal.
3) Estimate the amount of fill and dredge material that would be placed in or removed from surface water or
wetlands and indicate the area of the site that would be affected. Indicate the source of fill material.
Not applicable. This is a non-project action.
4) Will the proposal require surface water withdrawals or diversions? Give general description, purpose, and
approximate quantities if known.
Not applicable. This is a non-project action.
5) Does the proposal lie within a 100-year floodplain? If so, note the location on the site plan.
Not applicable. This is a non-project action
6) Does the proposal involve any discharges of waste materials to surface waters? If so, describe the type of
waste and anticipated volume of discharge.
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No. Not applicable. This is a non-project action.
b. Ground Water
1) Will groundwater be withdrawn from a well for drinking water or other purposes? If so, give a general
description of the well, proposed uses, and approximate quantities withdrawn from the well. Will water be
discharged to groundwater? Give general description, purpose, and approximate quantities if known.
No. This is a non-project action and includes proposed code amendments only. Nothing in the
proposed amendments would influence where water is obtained.
2) Describe waste material that will be discharged into the ground from septic tanks or other sources, if any
(for example: domestic sewage; industrial containing the following chemicals. . . ; agricultural; etc.).
Describe the general size of the system, the number of such systems, the number of houses to be served (if
applicable), or the number of animals or humans the system(s) are expected to serve.
This is a non-project action and includes code amendments only. Nothing in the proposed code
amendments would allow connection to septic systems and none of the uses allowed from the
proposed amendments would include chemical or agricultural discharges.
c. Water runoff (including stormwater):
1) Describe the source of runoff (including stormwater) and method of collection and disposal, if any (include
quantities, if known). Where will this water flow? Will this water flow into other waters? If so, describe.
This is a non-project action and there are no site-specific proposals being considered at this time. The
City of Federal Way has adopted the 2021 King County, Washington Surface Water Design Manual
(KCSWDM), the 2021 Federal Way Addendum to the King County, Washington Surface Water Design
Manual, the King County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Manual, and the latest edition of the LID
Technical Guidance Manual for Puget Sound. All runoff from projects stemming from these proposed
code amendments will be required to comply with these adopted standards.
2) Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so, generally describe.
No. This is a non-project action proposing amendments to the city code. The proposed amendments
will not increase the potential or risk for waste materials entering ground or surface waters.
3) Does the proposal alter or otherwise affect drainage patterns in the vicinity of the site? If so, describe.
No.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground, and runoff water, and drainage pattern impacts, if any:
None are proposed.
4. Plants
a. Check the types of vegetation found on the site:
____deciduous tree: alder, maple, aspen, other
____evergreen tree: fir, cedar, pine, other
____shrubs
____grass
____pasture
____crop or grain
____orchards, vineyards, or other permanent crops
____wet soil plants: cattail, buttercup, bullrush, skunk cabbage, other
____water plants: water lily, eelgrass, milfoil, other
____other types of vegetation
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
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b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered?
NA. This is a non-project action proposing amendments to the city code. The amount of clearing and
vegetation removal is controlled by the Federal Way Revised Code.
c. List threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site.
NA. The City is unaware of any threatened or endangered plant species found within the City.
d. Proposed landscaping, use of native plants, or other measures to preserve or enhance vegetation on the site, if
any.
None. This is a non-project action. Landscape requirements are identified in Title 19 of the Federal
Way Revised Code. No revisions to those requirements are proposed.
e. List all noxious weeds and invasive species known to be on or near the site.
NA. Noxious and invasive weeds are found throughout the City. The City complies with the State of
Washington’s and King County Noxious Weed Board’s rules and recommendations for the control and
eradication of listed noxious weeds.
5. Animals
a. List any birds and other animals which have been observed on or near the site, or are known to be on or near
the site. Examples include:
birds: hawk, heron, eagle, songbirds, other: ________
mammals: deer, bear, elk, beaver, other: ________
fish: bass, salmon, trout, herring, shellfish, other ________
According to King County, 221 breeding and non-breeding bird species are common, uncommon, or
usually seen on an annual basis in King County and there are approximately 70 mammals found in King
County. The city is also home to fish bearing streams. No specific inventories were conducted for this
Checklist preparation.
b. List any threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site.
Not applicable. This is a non-project action. However, there are no known threatened or endangered
species known to be on or near this site.
c. Is the site part of a migration route? If so, explain.
Federal Way is located within the Pacific Flyway migration route utilized by waterfowl migrating north
into Alaska and northern Canada.
d. Proposed measures to preserve or enhance wildlife, if any.
There are no provisions in the proposed code amendment to preserve or enhance wildlife.
e. List any invasive animal species known to be on or near the site.
Invasive species may be present in the City. If existing, the City would comply with all State and
County regulations for the control of such species.
6. Energy and Natural Resources
a. What kinds of energy (electric, natural gas, oil, wood stove, solar) will be used to meet the completed project’s
energy needs? Describe whether it will be used for heating, manufacturing, etc.
NA. This is a non-project action. Any future construction will be subject to the Washington State
Energy Code. Energy conservation measures would be incorporated into construction activities as
required by federal, state and local codes.
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b. Would your project affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent properties? If so, generally describe.
No. The proposed code amendment is a non-project action. Any future project specific proposals
would be subject to all applicable FWRC requirements.
c. What kinds of energy conservation features are included in the plans of this proposal? List other proposed
measures to reduce or control energy impacts, if any.
NA. This is a non-project action and there are no project specific actions proposed at this time. The
proposed code amendment does not propose any additional conservation features from those uses
currently allowed in each zone.
7. Environmental Health
a. Are there any environmental health hazards, including exposure to toxic chemicals, risk of fire and explosion,
spill, or hazardous waste that could occur as a result of this proposal? If so, describe.
No. This is a non-project action and no site-specific proposals exists.
1) Describe any known or possible contamination at the site from present or past uses.
NA. This is a non-project action and no site-specific proposal exists. However, a portion of the city
has been impacted as being potentially impacted from the Tacoma Smelter Plume (see map below).
2) Describe existing hazardous chemicals/conditions that might affect project development and design. This
includes underground hazardous liquid and gas transmission pipelines located within the project area and in
the vicinity.
This is a non-project action and no site-specific proposals exist.
3) Describe any toxic or hazardous chemicals that might be stored, used, or produced during the project’s
development or construction, or at any time during the operating life of the project.
This is a non-project action and no site-specific proposals exist.
4) Describe special emergency services that might be required.
No special emergency services are anticipated.
5) Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health hazards, if any.
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No mitigation measures are proposed with this proposed code amendment.
b. Noise
1) What types of noise exist in the area which may affect your project (for example: traffic, equipment,
operation, other)?
The only zoning district that would be affected with the adoption of this proposed amendment are
located in the BC zoning district which is primarily located along the Pacific Highway South corridor,
where existing noise is generated by traffic, over-head airplane travel, construction and heavy
equipment and other occupied land uses.
2) What types and levels of noise would be created by or associated with the project on a short-term or a long-
term basis (for example: traffic, construction, operation, other)? Indicate what hours noise would come
from the site.
None. This is a non-project action and no site-specific proposals exist. Any future development
proposed would be subject to all FWRC requirements including noise limits in FWRC.
3) Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any:
NA. Chapter 7.10 of the Federal Way Revised Code applies to all uses within the city. No other
mitigation measures are proposed.
8. Land and Shoreline Use
a. What is the current use of the site and adjacent properties? Will the proposal affect current land uses on nearby
or adjacent properties? If so, describe.
NA. This is a non-project action and there is no site-specific project proposed.
b. Has the project site been used as working farmlands or working forest lands? If so, describe. How much
agricultural or forest land of long-term commercial significance will be converted to other uses as a result of the
proposal, if any? If resource lands have not been designated, how many acres in farmland or forest land tax
status will be converted to nonfarm or non-forest use?
NA. The City does not have any agricultural or forest land of long-term commercial significance.
1) Will the proposal affect or be affected by surrounding working farm or forest land normal business
operations, such as oversize equipment access, the application of pesticides, tilling, and harvesting? If so,
how.
Not Applicable
c. Describe any structures on the site.
NA. This is a non-project action and there is no site-specific project. The BC zone is developed with a
variety of commercial, office, residential and public facility uses.
d. Will any structures be demolished? If so, what?
NA. This is a non-project action and no site-specific proposal exists. It is possible that adoption of
this proposed code amendment will result in the demolition of structures as part of a subsequent
project action.
e. What is the current zoning classification of the site?
The area where this proposed code would be applied is the Community Business (BC) zoning district.
f. What is the current comprehensive plan designation of the site?
What is the current zoning classification of the site?
The area where this proposed code would be applied is designated Community Business in the City’s
adopted Comprehensive Plan.
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g. If applicable, what is the current shoreline master program designation of the site?
The proposed amendment would apply to a portion of the City that is not covered by the Shoreline
program. No areas of the BC zoning district appear to be within 200 feet of shorelines regulated under
the SMA.
h. Has any part of the site been classified as a critical area by the city or county? If so, specify.
This is a non-project action applicable to the BC zoning district. Revisions to critical area protections
are not part of this proposed amendment.
i. Approximately how many people would reside or work in the completed project?
NA. The proposed code amendment would not affect the number of people in the City.
j. Approximately how many people would the completed project displace?
This is a non-project action and there are no direct displacements to consider with this action.
k. Proposed measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts, if any.
NA. This is a non-project action, and would not displace any people or structures and uses.
l. Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with existing and projected land uses and plans, if any.
NA. The proposed amendments include approval criteria that would ensure compatibility.
m. Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with nearby agricultural and forest lands of long-term
commercial significance, if any.
Not Applicable as there are no nearby agricultural or forest lands within the city.
9. Housing
a. Approximately how many units would be provided, if any? Indicate whether high, middle, or low-income
housing.
None. This amendment is to the BC zone school use code only, there will be no new residential units
created with this code amendment.
b. Approximately how many units, if any, would be eliminated? Indicate whether high, middle, or low-income
housing.
NA. The proposed code amendments will not result in the removal of any housing units.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts, if any.
None are proposed.
10. Aesthetics
a. What is the tallest height of any proposed structure(s), not including antennas; what is the principal exterior
building material(s) proposed?
This is a non-project action. This is a non project action and no specific project is proposed under this
review. The proposed code amendment is intended to allow minor and supporting structures for
school uses to exceed the maximum allowed height, subject to the Director approval after
determination that such structures will not significantly impact adjacent properties.
b. What views in the immediate vicinity would be altered or obstructed?
NA. This is a non-project action. Impacts to views would be assessed with individual permit
applications.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control aesthetic impacts, if any.
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No measures needed for this non-project action. The proposed code amendment is intended to allow
increased height for minor and supporting school structures, subject to the Director approval after
determination that such structures will not significantly impact adjacent properties. Any future project
level impacts would be evaluated under a project application.
11. Light and Glare
a. What type of light or glare will the proposal produce? What time of day would it mainly occur?
The proposed code amendment will not result in lighting from a project or site as this is a non-project
action. Lght impacts would be evaluated on a permit basis. Light standards for schools would be one
of the potential minor and support structures for school uses allowed under this code amendment.
Project level review of any specific application woud occur at the time of actual project review.
b. Could light or glare from the finished project be a safety hazard or interfere with views?
The proposed code includes approval criteria associated with potential impacts to adjacent properties.
The potential impact from light or glare would be addressed on a permit-by-permit basis.
c. What existing off-site sources of light or glare may affect your proposal?
NA. This is a non-project action. There are many existing sources of light in the BC zoning district
and throughout the City.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control light and glare impacts, if any.
The proposed code amendment includes the following approval criteria: minor and supporting
structures as a functional requirement of schools may exceed the applicable height limit, provided the
Director of Community Development determines that such structures will not significantly impact
adjacent properties
12. Recreation
a. What designated and informal recreational opportunities are in the immediate vicinity?
NA. The City of Federal Way Parks Department manages 23 neighborhood parks and six major
facilities. The city also maintains 23 undeveloped open spaces and three trail systems for use by its
residents, employees and visitors, defining a park system that exceeds 1,000 acres.
b. Would the proposed project displace any existing recreational uses? If so, describe.
The proposed code amendment will not displace any existing recreational uses.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts on recreation, including recreation opportunities to be
provided by the project or applicant, if any.
No mitigation measures are warranted.
13. Historic and cultural preservation
a. Are there any buildings, structures, or sites, located on or near the site that are over 45 years old listed in or
eligible for listing in national, state, or local preservation registers located on or near the site? If so, specifically
describe.
The proposed code amendments represent a non-project action and there are no specific development
proposals pending at this time.
b. Are there any landmarks, features, or other evidence of Indian or historic use or occupation? This may include
human burials or old cemeteries. Are there any material evidence, artifacts, or areas of cultural importance on or
near the site? Please list any professional studies conducted at the site to identify such resources.
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NA – This is a non-project action, there is no specific prosed project. The non-project action is a code
amendment which would allow additional height for minor and support structures for school uses in
the BC zoning district.
c. Describe the methods used to assess the potential impacts to cultural and historic resources on or near the
project site. Examples include consultation with tribes and the department of archeology and historic
preservation, archaeological surveys, historic maps, GIS data, etc.
The proposed code amendment is a non-project action. The City currently has an interlocal
agreement with King County and the King County Landmarks and Heritage Commission to provide
historic preservation services for the city and the procedures are provided in Federal Way Revised
Code 19.285 (Protection and Preservation of Landmarks). No changes are proposed to the city’s
oversight of historic structures or properties. In addition, all non-exempt development projects are
reviewed for SEPA compliance. Those reviews are shared with the tribes before permits are issued.
d. Proposed measures to avoid, minimize, or compensate for loss, changes to, and disturbance to resources. Please
include plans for the above and any permits that may be required.
No additional measures are necessary.
14. Transportation
a. Identify public streets and highways serving the site or affected geographic area and describe proposed access to
the existing street system. Show on site plans, if any.
This is a non-project action and there are no project specific actions proposed. The proposed code
amendment will not alter transportation and access within the BC zoning district.
b. Is the site or affected geographic area currently served by public transit? If so, generally describe. If not, what is
the approximate distance to the nearest transit stop?
NA. This is a non-project action and there are no project specific actions proposed. The City of
Federal Way is served by public transit. Currently bus service is provided by King County Metro,
Sound Transit and Pierce Transit. Light rail is expected to serve the city beginning in 2024. Distance
to transit stops varies in the city.
c. How many additional parking spaces would the completed project or non-project proposal have? How many
would the project or proposal eliminate?
None. NA. This is a non-project action.
d. Will the proposal require any new or improvements to existing roads, streets, pedestrian, bicycle, or state
transportation facilities, not including driveways? If so, generally describe (indicate whether public or private).
No. The proposed code amendment is a non-project action.
e. Will the project or proposal use (or occur in the immediate vicinity of) water, rail, or air transportation? If so,
generally describe.
This is a non-project action and no site-specific proposals are being considered at this time.
f. How many vehicular trips per day would be generated by the completed project or proposal? If known, indicate
when peak volumes would occur and what percentage of the volume would be trucks (such as commercial and
non-passenger vehicles). What data or transportation models were used to make these estimates?
None. NA. This is a non-project action.
g. Will the proposal interfere with, affect, or be affected by the movement of agricultural and forest products on
roads or streets in the area? If so, generally describe.
Not applicable. Federal Way is part of the Urban Growth Area of King County. There are no known
managed forests or agricultural areas in the BC zoning district in the city of Federal Way. .
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h. Proposed measures to reduce or control transportation impacts, if any.
No mitigation measures are proposed.
15. Public services
a. Would the project result in an increased need for public services (for example: fire protection, police protection,
public transit, health care, schools, other)? If so, generally describe.
No. This is a non-project action. The proposed code amendment does not add or remove allowed
land uses from current zones in the city.
b. Proposed measures to reduce or control direct impacts on public services, if any.
No additional mitigation is warranted.
16. Utilities
a. Underline/circle utilities currently available at the site:
electricity, natural gas, water, refuse service, telephone, sanitary sewer, septic system, other ___________
The City of Federal Way is served by Puget Sound Energy, Lakehaven Water & Sewer District,
Tacoma Public Utilities, Comcast, CenturyLink, and numerous wireless carriers.
b. Describe the utilities that are proposed for the project, the utility providing the service, and the general
construction activities on the site or in the immediate vicinity which might be needed.
This is a non-project action. Each development project resulting from the adoption of this proposed
code amendment will propose utility improvements to serve their project. Requirements will vary by
size and location of each potential future project.
C. SIGNATURE
The above answers are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that the lead agency is relying on
them to make its decision.
Signature: ___________________________________________________
Printed Name of Signee: ____Jim Harris
Position and Agency/Organization: _Senior Planner, City of Federal Way Department of Community
Development ____________
Date Submitted: ____ 31 August 2022_________
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D. SUPPLEMENTAL SHEET FOR NON-PROJECT ACTIONS
(IT IS NOT NECESSARY to use this sheet for project actions.)
Because these questions are very general, it may be helpful to read them in conjunction with the list of the elements of
the environment.
When answering these questions, be aware of the extent the proposal, or the types of activities likely to result from the
proposal, would affect the item at a greater intensity or at a faster rate than if the proposal were not implemented.
Respond briefly and in general terms.
1. How would the proposal be likely to increase discharge to water; emissions to air; production, storage, or release of
toxic or hazardous substances; or production of noise?
The proposed code amendment would not increase discharge to water, emissions to air, production,
storage, or release of toxic or hazardous substances or noise. The proposed code amendments do not add
or remove any currently-allowed land uses.
Proposed measures to avoid or reduce such increases are:
Non required. Noise emanating from any uses from the adoption of this proposed code amendment would
be subject to the provisions of Federal Way Revised Code Chapter 7.10 (Noise).
2. How would the proposal be likely to affect plants, animals, fish, or marine life?
The proposal will not affect plants, animals, fish or marine life, as this is a non-project action. No changes
are proposed to property or critical area setbacks or allowed uses. No changes are proposed to
stormwater regulations, and vegetation retention and requirements.
Proposed measures to protect or conserve plants, animals, fish, or marine life are:
No needed as a result of the proposed code amendment. No additional mitigation measures are necessary.
3. How would the proposal be likely to deplete energy or natural resources?
The code amendment would not deplete energy or natural resources. No changes are proposed to property
or critical area setbacks or allowed uses in the proposed code amendment. .
Proposed measures to protect or conserve energy and natural resources are:
None needed. All new construction would be required to meet current energy codes. No other mitigation
is warranted.
4. How would the proposal be likely to use or affect environmentally sensitive areas or areas designated (or eligible or
under study) for governmental protection; such as parks, wilderness, wild and scenic rivers, threatened or
endangered species habitat, historic or cultural sites, wetlands, floodplains, or prime farmlands?
NA. No changes are proposed to property or critical area setbacks or allowed uses. Protections for critical
areas are found in Federal Way Revised Code Title 14 (Environmental Policy) and Title 19 Chapter 19.145
(Environmentally Critical Areas).
Environmental Checklist for BC Zone School Use Support Structure Height
26 August 2022 Page 14
Proposed measures to protect such resources or to avoid or reduce impacts are:
No new measures are necessary.
5. How would the proposal be likely to affect land and shoreline use, including whether it would allow or encourage
land or shoreline uses incompatible with existing plans?
The proposed amendments do not affect the critical area or shoreline regulations for the City. None of the
proposed code amendments are expected to impact shoreline protections or use.
Proposed measures to avoid or reduce shoreline and land use impacts are:
No mitigation measures are proposed or necessary.
6. How would the proposal be likely to increase demands on transportation or public services and utilities?
The proposed code amendment does not change the zones found within the city nor do they add or
subtract from the land uses allowed in each zone, and would not impact transportation or public services. .
Proposed measures to reduce or respond to such demand(s) are:
No monitoring or additional measures are warranted.
7. Identify, if possible, whether the proposal may conflict with local, state, or federal laws or requirements for the
protection of the environment.
There are no known conflicts in the proposed code amendments with state or federal regulations for
environmental protection.
Environmental Checklist for BC Zone School Use Support Structure Height
26 August 2022 Page 15
Attachment 1
DRAFT 8-26-22
19.220.040 Schools – Day care facilities, commercial – Animal kennels.
The following uses shall be permitted in the community business (BC) zone subject to the regulations and notes set forth in this section:
USE REGULATIONS
USE ZONE CHART
DIRECTIONS: FIRST, read down to find use . . . THEN, across for REGULATIONS
Required
Review
Process
Minimums
Height of
Structure
Required
Parking Spaces
SPECIAL REGULATIONS AND NOTES
Lot
Size
Required Yards
Front Side
(each) Rear
⇩ ⇨
Schools; business,
vocational, or trade
schools
Day care facilities,
commercial
Animal kennels or
animal care facilities
Process
II or,
with
SEPA,
Process
III
None 20
ft.
0 ft. 0 ft. 55 ft.
above
average
building
elevation
(AABE)
for gyms if
located
100 ft. or
more from
an
adjacent
residential
zone
35 ft.
above
average
building
elevation
(AABE),
to 55 ft.
AABE, for
all other
structures
See notes
1 – 3
High school: 1 for
each employee and
1 for each 10
students
Elementary/Middle:
1 for each employee
Business/Vocational
/Trade: 1 for each
employee and 0.5
for each student
Day care: 1 for each
300 sq. ft. of gross
floor area
Kennel and care
facilities:
1 for each 300 sq. ft.
of gross floor area
1. Building height may not exceed 30 ft. AABE
when located within 100 ft. of a residential zone.
2. Except for gyms, if approved by the director of
community development services, the height of a
structure may exceed 35 ft. above average
building elevation (AABE) to a maximum of 55 ft.
AABE, if all of the following criteria are met:
a. The additional height is necessary to
accommodate the structural, equipment, or
operational needs of the use conducted in the
building, and/or all ground floor spaces have a
minimum floor-to-ceiling height of 13 ft. and a
minimum depth of 15 ft.;
b. Height complies with note 1;
c. Height over 35 ft. is set back from
nonresidential zones by one ft. for each one ft. of
height over 35 ft.; and
d. Rooflines are designed to avoid a
predominantly flat and featureless appearance
through variations in roof height, forms, angles,
and materials.
3. For any structure, including gyms, an increase
in height above 35 ft. shall not block views
designated by the comprehensive plan.
4. Day care facilities must contain an outdoor
play area with at least 75 sq. ft. for each child
using the area at any one time. This play area
must be completely enclosed by a solid fence or
other screen at least six ft. in height. Play
equipment and structured play areas must be set
back at least five ft. from each property line.
5. Day care facilities, animal kennels, or animal
care facilities may include accessory living
facilities as defined by FWRC 19.05.010.
6. Day care facilities and schools must comply
with the requirements of the State Department of
Social and Health Services and/or the State
Superintendent of Public Instruction.
7. All activities pertaining to schools, business or
vocational schools, or trade schools, such as
auto repair or other uses that may impact
adjacent properties, must take place within an
enclosed building.
8. Animal kennels and animal care facilities must
be designed so that the maximum permissible
noise levels from outdoor runs and other open
areas comply with the provisions of
FWRC 7.10.050, and such outdoor areas shall
be screened from adjacent properties by 10 ft. of
Type III landscaping, as defined by
Except 20
ft. along
residential
zones
Outdoor uses for
animals, such as
open-air
kennels, runs,
training yards, or
show facilities,
shall be set back
20 ft. from any
property line
See notes 2, 4,
8 and 11
Environmental Checklist for BC Zone School Use Support Structure Height
26 August 2022 Page 16
USE REGULATIONS
USE ZONE CHART
DIRECTIONS: FIRST, read down to find use . . . THEN, across for REGULATIONS
Required
Review
Process
Minimums
Height of
Structure
Required
Parking Spaces
SPECIAL REGULATIONS AND NOTES
Lot
Size
Required Yards
Front Side
(each) Rear
⇩ ⇨
Chapter 19.125 FWRC, or greater buffer as
required therein.
9. No maximum lot coverage is established.
Instead, the buildable area will be determined by
other site development requirements, i.e.,
required buffers, parking lot landscaping, surface
water facilities, etc.
10. For community design guidelines that apply
to the project, see Chapter 19.115 FWRC.
11. For landscaping requirements that apply to
the project, see Chapter 19.125 FWRC.
12. For sign requirements that apply to the
project, see Chapter 19.140 FWRC.
(Continued on next page)
For other information about parking and parking
areas, see Chapter 19.130 FWRC.
For details of what may exceed this height limit,
see FWRC 19.110.050 et seq.
For details regarding required yards, see
FWRC 19.125.160 et seq.
Process I, II, III and IV are described in
Chapter 19.55 FWRC,
Chapter 19.60 FWRC,
Chapter 19.65 FWRC,
Chapter 19.70 FWRC respectively.
19.220.040 Schools – Day care facilities, commercial – Animal kennels. (Continued)
USE REGULATIONS
USE ZONE CHART
DIRECTIONS: FIRST, read down to find use . . . THEN, across for REGULATIONS
Required
Review
Process
Minimums
Height of
Structure
Required
Parking Spaces
SPECIAL REGULATIONS AND NOTES
Lot
Size
Required Yards
Front Side
(each) Rear
⇩ ⇨
13. Refer to Chapter 19.265 FWRC to determine
what other provisions of this title may apply to
the subject property.
14. Schools may locate containers on site for the
storage of emergency preparedness supplies as
an accessory use. Containers may not be
located in any required yard. Landscaping may
be required by the director of community
development services to screen the installation if
the proposed location will be visible from a public
right-of-way and/or neighboring properties. Siting
is subject to review and approval under process
I, director’s approval, unless proposed as a
component of another project; in which case the
siting of the container will be reviewed as part of
the overall development proposal and subject to
the underlying review process.
15. Site design, including the location of parking
and passenger loading areas, shall be designed
to reduce impacts on nearby residential areas.
16. Minor and supporting structures constructed
Environmental Checklist for BC Zone School Use Support Structure Height
26 August 2022 Page 17
USE REGULATIONS
USE ZONE CHART
DIRECTIONS: FIRST, read down to find use . . . THEN, across for REGULATIONS
Required
Review
Process
Minimums
Height of
Structure
Required
Parking Spaces
SPECIAL REGULATIONS AND NOTES
Lot
Size
Required Yards
Front Side
(each) Rear
⇩ ⇨
as a functional requirement of schools may
exceed the applicable height limitation; provided,
that the director of community development
services determines that such structures will not
significantly impact adjacent properties.
For other information about parking and parking
areas, see Chapter 19.130 FWRC.
For details of what may exceed this height limit,
see FWRC 19.110.050 et seq.
For details regarding required yards, see
FWRC 19.125.160 et seq.
Process I, II, III and IV are described in
Chapter 19.55 FWRC,
Chapter 19.60 FWRC,
Chapter 19.65 FWRC,
Chapter 19.70 FWRC respectively.
(Ord. No. 12-735, § 4(Exh. A), 12-4-12; Ord. No. 11-700, § 5, 9-20-11; Ord. No. 09-605, § 3(Exh. A), 3-3-09; Ord. No. 09-604,
