Ord 98-323
ORDINANCE NO. 98-323
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FEDERAL WAY, WASHINGTON, AMENDING CHAPTER 18
OF THE FEDERAL WAY ZONING CODE, ADOPTING
SPECIFIC AMENDMENTS TO THE SHORELINE
REGULATIONS AND ADOPTING A SHORELINE MASTER
PROGRAM TO INCLUDE IN THE FEDERAL WAY
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND TO REPLACE THE
ADOPTED KING COUNTY ORDINANCE (Title 25).
A.
WHEREAS amendments to the Federal Way City Code (FWCC) text and
Shoreline Master Program Map are authorized pursuant to the authority of the Shoreline
Management Act of 1971, RCW Ch 90.58 as amended, and the Shoreline Management
Guidelines, WAC Ch 173-14; and
B.
WHEREAS the Federal Way City Council has considered proposed changes
to the FWCC regarding specific shoreline management regulations; and
C.
WHEREAS the Federal Way City Council, pursuant to FWCC 22-517, having
determined the Proposal to be worthy of legislative consideration, referred the Proposal
to the Federal Way Planning Commission as a priority item for its review and
recommendation; and
D.
WHEREAS the Federal Way Planning Commission, having considered the
Proposal at public hearings during 1998 on April 1 st pursuant to FWCC Section 22-523,
and all public notices having been duly given pursuant to FWCC Section 22-528; and
ORD # 98-323
, PAGE 1
t~ff2>Y'
E.
WHEREAS the public was given opportunities to comment on the Proposal
during the Planning Commission review; and
F.
WHEREAS the City of Federal Way SEPA responsible official issued a
Declaration of Nonsignificance on April 10, 1998; and
G.
WHEREAS following the public hearings, the Planning Commission submitted
to the Land Use and Transportation Committee of the City Council its recommendation
in favor of proposed shoreline text amendments adding sections to the FWCC as noted
previously; and
H.
WHEREAS the Federal Way Land Use and Transportation City Council
Committee met on May 27, June 2, August 3, and October 26, 1998 to consider the
recommendation of the Planning Commission and has moved to forward the Proposal,
with amendments, to the full City Council; and
I.
WHEREAS there was sufficient opportunity for the public to comment on the
Proposal; NOW, THEREFORE,
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FEDERAL WAY. WASHINGTON,
DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Findinas. After full and careful consideration, the City Council of the
City of Federal Way makes the following findings with respect to the Proposal and the
proposed amendments to the Federal Way City Code ("FWCC"):
1.
The Federal Way City Council adopted the Federal Way Comprehensive
Plan in order to comply with the State's Growth Management Act; and
ORD # 98-323
, PAGE 2
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2.
The Federal Way Comprehensive Plan contains policies that call for the
adoption of a new Shoreline Management Plan; and
3.
The Federal Way SEPA responsible official has issued a Declaration of
Nonsignificance on April 1, 1998; and
4.
The proposed code amendments would not adversely affect the public
health, safety or welfare; and
5.
The Planning Commission, following notice thereof as required by RCW
35A.63.070, held public hearings on the proposed regulatory amendments and has
considered the testimony, written comments, and material from the public by and through
said hearings.
Section 2. Conclusions. Pursuant to FWCC Section 22-216 and based upon
the Findings set forth in Section 1, the Federal Way City Council makes the following
Conclusions of Law with respect to the decisional criteria necessary for the adoption of
the Proposal:
1.
The Proposal is consistent with the following Comprehensive Plan goals
and policies contained in the Natural Environment chapter:
NEG10 Create a new shoreline master program that is consistent with
community values, land use and environmental protection.
NEP44 The City should create a new Shoreline Master Program that
is consistent with State law, and the policy direction of the Natural
Environment and Land Use chapters of this Plan.
NEP45 The Shoreline Master Program should recognize the unique
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98-323
, PAGE 3
recreational and natural habitat of the City's shorelines.
2. The Proposal bears a substantial relationship to the public health,
safety and welfare because it implements policies aimed at protecting
the City's natural environment and promotes site sensitive development.
Section 3. Amendment. The Federal Way Zoning Code, Chapter 22, is
amended to provide as set forth in Attachment A and; The Federal Way
Comprehensive Plan is amended to provide for as set forth in Attachment B and by
this reference these Attachments are incorporated therein.
Section 4. The provisions of this ordinance are declared separate and
severable. The invalidity of any clause, sentence, paragraph, subdivision, section, or
portion of this ordinance or the invalidity of the application thereof to any person or
circumstance, shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the ordinance, or the
validity of its application to other persons or circumstances.
Section 5. Ratification. Any act consistent with the authority and prior
to the effective date of this ordinance is hereby ratified and affirmed.
Section 6. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect and be in .
force five (5) days from the time of its final passage, as provided by law.
PASSED by the City Council of the City of Federal Way this
1st
day of
December
, 1998.
ORD#
98-323
, PAGE 4
CITY OF FEDERAL WAY
¡;(~d~
MAYOR, RONALD L. GINTZ
A)~2 r~4~
CITY CLERK, N. GHRISTINE GREEN, CMC
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
~y, L~I K :'ND~
FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK: 11/1&/98
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL: 12/01/98
PUBLISHED:
12/4/98
EFFECTIVE DATE: 12/9/98
ORDINANCE NO. 98-323
ORD # 98-323
, PAGE 5
A TT ACHMENT A
ARTICLE III. SHORELINE
MANAGI':MENT*
'Cross rcfcrcncc(s)--RegulatlOns regardmg structures built over water, § 8-54; requirements for drainage
rev\Cw, § 21-87; supplementary zomng d"t"ct regulations, § 22-946 ct seq
State law referenee(s)--Shorclme management act, RCW 90.58030.
DIVISION I. GENERALLY
Sec. I8-161. Purpose and authority.
The city adopts these regulation under the authority of the Shoreline Management Act
of 1971, RCW ch. 90.58, as amended, and the Shoreline Management Guidelines, WAC ch.
173-14.
(Ord No. 90-38, § 1(24.10), 2-27-90)
See. 18 162. Shoreline master pragram.
(a) The city adopts by reference the following portions of King County Ordinance No.
3692, Shorøline Master Program (goals, objectives aRd policies), ORC copy of which is OR file
v,ith the office of the eity clerIc
(1)
(2)
(3)
Master program elements.
Shoreline eR. ¡ronments.
Shoreline use activities
(b) The city adopts by refereRce portioRs of the KiRg COURI) Code, Title 25, ShoreliRe
Management a3 fello\\s, ORe copy of ""'HicH is OR file ',\itll tlle cil) cleric:
(1)
(2)
(3)
( 1)
(5)
(G)
CHapter 25.01, Purpose, title, scope.
CHapter 25.08, DefiRitions.
Chapter 25.12, En. ironment designations.
Chapter 25.16, UrhaR eRvironment.
ClIapter 25.20, Rural envirenment.
Chapter 25.21, Conser,'anc) cn ¡ironment.
(7) Chapter 25.28, Natural om ironment
(Ord. No 90}g, § 1(242('IP, 21'(!20), 2 27 °P)
Sec. 18--I4>J 162. Jurisdiction.
(a) The provisions of this article shall apply to all development proposed within the
areas defined as shorelines in RCW 90 58 0230(2)(d), and shorelines of statewide significance
in RCW 90.58.030(2)(e). The approximate location of these shorelines shall be designated on
maps maintained by the department of community development; however, the property owner
or applicant shall be responsible for determining the exact location of the shoreline when a
permit is filed
(b) No development shall be undertaken by any person on the shorelines of the state
without obtaining a shoreline permit from the department of community development;
provided, that a permit shall not be required for development exempted from the definition of
substantial development in WAC 173-27-040 and for developments exempted by RCW
90.58.140(9) and (10).
(Ord No. 90-38, § 1(24.30 10, 243020), 2-27-90)
Sec. 18-163. Additional definitions.
Unless otherwise defined in this chapter the definitions contained in this chapter
Chapter 22 RCW Chapter 90.58 and WAC 173-26 shall applv
Access: Public access means actual unobstructed access available to the general public
from land to the ordinary high water mark or to the wetland directly abutting the ordinary
high water mark.
Access: Limited vublic access means:
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Actual phvsical access from land to the ordinary high water mark or to the
wetland directly abutting the ordinary high water mark, such access being
limited to specific groups of people or to certain regularly prescribed times' or
2.
Visual access available to the general public to the shoreline and adjacent
waterbodv such access being specifically provided for in the development of
the site .
Avera!!e £[rade level means the average of the natural or existing topography at the
center of all exterior walls of a building or structure to be placed on a site provided. that in
the case of structures to be built over water average grade level shall be the elevation or
ordinary high water
Backshore means a berm. together with associated marshes or meadows on marine
shores landward of the ordinary high water mark which is normal above high tide level and
has been gradually built UP by accretion
Reach feedil1!! means landfill deposited on land. or in the water, to be distributed bv
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natural water processes for the purpose of supplementing beach material
Ham means one or several linear mounds of sand and gravel generally paralleling the
shore at or landward of the ordinary high water mark which are normallv stable because of
material size or ve~etation.
Hreakwa/a means an off-shore structure either floating or not which may or mav not
be connected to the shore. such structure being designated to absorb and/or reflect back into
the water bodv the energy of the waves.
Hulkhead means a solid or open pile of rock. concrete steel timber other materials. or
a combination of these materials erected generally parallel to and near the ordinary high water
mark for the purpose of protecting adiacent shorelands and uplands from waves or currents.
Class I beach means a beach or shore having dependable geologicallv full v developed
and normally dry backshore above high tide
Class II beach means a beach or shore having onlv marginally geologically partiallv
developed. and not dependably dry backshore above high tide
Class 111 beach means a beach or shore having no dry backshore available at high tide.
Environmen/ or mas/er vroV'am environmen/ or shoreline environment means the
categories of shorelines of the state established bv the City of Federal Wav shoreline
management master program to differentiate between areas whose features imply differing
objectives regarding their use and future development.
Floa/ means a structure or device which is not a breakwater and which is moored.
anchored or otherwise secured in the waters of Federal Wav and which is not connected to
the shoreline
Groin means a barrier type structure extending from the backshore into the water
across the beach. The purpose of a groin is to interrupt sediment movement along the shore.
ie/tv means an artificial barrier used to change the natural littoral drift to protect inlet
entrances from clogging bv excess sediment.
Ulloral drif/ means the natural movement of sediment along marine or lake shorelines
by wave breaker action in response to prevailing winds.
Non-wa/er-orien/ed uses means those uses which have little or no relationship to the
shoreline and are not considered prioritv uses under the SMA Examples include professional
offices automobile sales or repair shops mini-storage facilities multi-family residential
development department stores and gas stations.
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Strin¡:llIIe -"ethack means a straight line drawn between the points on the primary
buildings having the greatest projection (including appurtenant structures such as decks)
waterward on the two adjacent properties
Water-de/Jendent means a use or portion of a use which can not exist in any other
location and is dependent on the water by reason of the intrinsic nature of its operations
Examples of water dependent uses may include ship cargo terminal loading areas ferry and
passenger terminals, barge loading facilities ship building and dry docking, marinas
aquaculture float plane facilities and sewer outfalls.
Water-en/ovment means a recreational use, or other use facilitating public access to the
shoreline as a primary characteristic of the use or a use that provides for recreational use or
aesthetic enjoyment of the shoreline for a substantial number of people as a general
characteristic of the use and which through the location design and operation assures the
public's ability to enioy the physical and aesthetic qualities of the shoreline. In order to
qualify as a water-enjoyment use the use must be open to the general public and the shoreline
oriented space within the proiect must be devoted to the specific aspects of the use that fosters
shoreline enjoyment. Primary water-enjoyment uses may include but are not limited to,
parks piers and other improvements facilitating public access to shorelines of the state; and
general water-enjoyment uses may include. but are not limited to restaurants museums
aquariums scientific/ecological reserves resorts and mixed-use commercial. Provided that
such uses conform to the above water-enjoyment specifications and the provisions of the
master program
Water-oriented means any combination of water-dependent water-related, and/or
water-enjoyment uses and serves as an all-encompassing definition for priority uses under the
SMA. '
Water-related means a use or portion of a use which is not intrinsically dependent on a
waterfront location but whose economic yitality is dependent upon a water-front location
because:
(a) of a functional requirement for a waterfront location such as the arrival or. shipment
of materials by water or the need for large Quantities of water or,
(b) the use provides a necessary service supportiye of the water-dep'endent commercial
activities and the proximity of the use to its customers makes its services less
expensive and/or more convenient. Examples include professional services serving
primarily water-dependent activities and storage of water-transported foods.
DIVISION 2. SHORELINE REGULA nON
Sec. 18-164. Environmental desi!!nations.
Sec. 18-164.01. Purpose.
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The purpose of these designations is to differentiate between areas whose geographical
hvdrolo¡¡ical topo¡¡raphical or other features implv differin¡¡ obiectives regardin¡¡ the use and
future development of the shorelines of the citv
Each environment designation represents a particular emphasis in the tvpe of uses and
the extent of development that should occur within it The environmental designation system
is desi¡¡ned to encoura¡¡e uses in each environment that enhance or are compatible with the
character of the environment. while at the same time requiring reasonable standards and
restrictions on development so that the character of the environment is not adverselv
impacted
Sec. 18-164.02. Names of environment desi!!nations.
In order to accomplish the purpose of this title environmental designations have been
established to be known as follows
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Natural environment.
Conservancv environment.
Rural environment.
Urban environment.
Sec. 18-164.03 Limits of environment desi!!nations.
Each environment designation shall consist of
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The entire water bodv from its centerline or point including all water below
the surface.
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The shoreline areas where severe biophvsical constraints such as floodplains
steep slopes slide hazard areas and wetlands do not cover the entire associated
shoreland. Proposed development in the remaining area mav be permitted
consistent with the character of the surrounding land use the phvsical
capabilities of the shorelands and applicable citv land use plans and policies.
Sec. 18-164.04 Establishment of desi!!nations.
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The written descriptions of the boundaries of the shoreline environment
designations as adopted bv ordinance in the possession of the department shall
constitute the official legal descriptions of the boundaries of those environment
designations
The official maps prepared pursuant to WAC 173-16 and 173.26 in the
possession of the department shall constitute the official descriptions of the
limits of all shorelands in the Citv of Federal Wav as defined bv RCW
90.58.030 and section 18.163 of this chaPter
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The department may. from time to time as new or improved information
becomes available. modify the official maps described in subsection 2 of this
section consistent with state guidelines to more accurately represent. clarify or
interpret the true limits of the shorelines defined herein
Sec. \8-\64.05. Location of boundaries.
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Boundaries indicated as following streets. highways roads and bridges shall be
deemed to follow the centerline of such facilities unless otherwise specified
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Boundaries indicated as following railroad lines and transmission lines shall be
deemed to follow the centerline of such rights-of-wav or easements unless
otherwise specified
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Where different environmental designations have been given to a tributarv and
the main stream at the point of confluence the environmental designation given
to the main stream shall extend for a distance of 200 feet UP the tributarv.
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\n case of uncertainty as to a wetland or environment boundarv. the director of
community development services shall determine its exact location pursuant to
the criteria of WAC 173-22-055 and RCW 90.58.030 and the provisions of this
chapter.
Sec. \8-165. Urban environment.
Sec. 18-165.01. Purpose.
The purpose of designating the urban environment is to ensure oPtimum utilization of
the shorelines of the state within urbanized areas by permitting intensive use and by managing
development so that it enhances and maintains the shorelines of the state for a multiplicity of
urban uses The urban environment is designed to reflect a policy of increasing utilization and
efficiency of urban areas. to promote a more intense level of use through redevelopment of
areas now under utilized and to encourage multiple use of the shorelines of the city if the
maior use is water dependent or water related while at the same time safeguarding the Quality
of the environment.
Sec. 18-165.02. Desi!!nation criteria.
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Designation criteria for the urban environment shall be:
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Shorelines of the city used or designated for office and commercial and high
intensity recreational use.
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Shorelines of the city of lower intensity use where surrounding land use is
urban and urban services are available.
1.
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Shorelines of the citv used or designated for multifamih residential
development
Shorelines of the citv developed for residential purposes and where surrounding
land use is urban and urban services are available
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Shorelines of the citv to be designated urban environment shall not have
biophvsical limitations to development such as floodplains, steep slopes slide
hazard areas, and wetlands.
Sec. 18-165.03. General ReQuirements.
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Development waterward of the ordinarv high water mark is prohibited except
water dependent recreational uses.
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No structure shall exceed a height of 35 feet above average grade level. This
requirement mav be modified if the view of anv neighboring residences will
not be obstructed if permitted outright bv the applicable provisions of the
underlving zoning and if the proposed development is water related or water
dependent
1.
All development shall be required to provide adequate surface water retention
and sedimentation facilities during the construction period
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Development shall maintain the first 50 feet of propertv abutting a natural
environment as required open space.
1.
Parking facilities except parking facilities associated with detached single-
familv development shall conform to the following minimum conditions
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Parking facilities serving individual buildings on the shoreline shall be
located landward from the principal building being served EXCEPT
when the parking facilitv is within or beneath the structure and.
adequatelv screened or in cases when an alternate location would have
less environmental impact on the shoreline.
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Anv outdoor parking area perimeter, excluding entrances and exits must
be maintained as a planting area with a minimum width of five feet.
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Parking as a primarv use shall be prohibited over water and within
shoreline iurisdiction.
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Parking in shoreline iurisdiction shall directly serye a permitted
shoreline use.
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One live tree with a minimum height of four feet shall be required for
each 30 linear feet of planting area
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One live shrub of one-gallon container size, or larger, for each 60 linear
inches of planting area shall be required
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Additional perimeter and interior landscaping of parking areas mav be
required, at the discretion of the director when it is necessary to screen
parking areas or when large parking areas are proposed.
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[n addition to anv requirements imposed bv Chapter 21 of this code collection
facilities to control and separate contaminants shall be required where
storm water runoff from impervious surfaces would degrade or add to the
pollution of recipient waters of adjacent properties.
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The regulations of this chaPter have been categorized in a number of sections
regardless of the categorization of the various regulations all development must
comply with all applicable regulations
Sec. 18-165.04. Residential development.
Single family and multiple family residential development may be permitted in the
urban environment subject to the general requirements of Chapter 22 Article XI, Divisions 3
and 4, and the following.
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Single family or multiple family residential development is permitted in the
underlying zone classification
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Residentia[ development is prohibited waterward of the ordinary high water
mark.
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Setbacks.
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Sini!le famify residential development shall maintain a minimum setback
behind the stringline setback or 50 feet from the ordinary high water
mark whichever is greater. except in the following cases
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If the property is undeveloped and reasonable use of the property
cannot occur without further encroachment of the setback due to
physical constraints of the lot then the director of community
development services can reduce the setback to the minimum
necessary in order to build a single family home but in no case
less than 30 feet from the ordinary high water mark
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If the property is developed with a single family home beyond
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the stringline setback or within 50 feet of the ordinary high
water mark if there are no adjacent residences then the residence
can only be added to if the addition will not make the structure
any more nonconforming as to its setback and the height of the
addition within the setback area is not increased, or the applicant
may request a shoreline variance and conditional use permit
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If single family residential development is proposed on a lot
where properties adiacent to both sides of the lot are developed
in single family residences located less than 50 feet from the
ordinary high water mark then the proposed residential
development may be located the same distance from the ordinary
high water mark as the adjacent residences ( using stringline
method) or 30 feet from the ordinary high water mark
whichever is greater
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If the residential development is proposed on shorelines that
include one or more sensitive areas as defined in Chapter 22 of
this code such development shall maintain setbacks in
accordance with the regulations and procedures set forth in
Article XIV of Chapter 22.
Multifamily residelllial development shall maintain a ,etback behind the
stringline setback or 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark
whichever is greater except in the following cases.
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If the property is undeveloped and reasonable use of the property
cannot occur without further encroachment of the setback due to
physical constraints of the lot then the setback can be reduced to
the minimum necessary in order to build a single family home
but in no case less than 30 feet of the ordinary high water mark.
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If the property is developed with a single or multifamily
structure beyond the stringline setback or within 75 feet of the
ordinary high water mark if there are no adjacent single or
multifamily structures then the structure can only be added to if
the addition will not make the structure any more nonconforming
as to its setback and the height of the adition within the structure
is not increased or the applicant may request a shoreline variance
and conditional use permit.
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If the residential development is proposed on shorelines that
include one or more sensitive areas as defined in Chapter 22 of
this code, such development shall maintain setbacks in
accordance with regulations and procedures set forth in Article
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XIV of Chapter 22
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Residential accessory structures may be placed within the required shoreline
setback, provided
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No accessory structure except swimming pools shall cover more than
150 square feet
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No accessory structure shall obstruct the view of the neighboring
properties
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No accessory structure shall exceed eight feet in height.
Sec. 18-165.05. Residential piers, moorage, or launching facilities. Conditions.
Anv pier moorage float or launching facility authorized bv sections 18.165.04
through 18.165.06 shall be subject to the following conditions:
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Residential piers are prohibited on the Puget Sound shoreline
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No dwelling unit may be constructed on a pier.
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Excavated moorage slips shall not be permitted accessory to single family
residences, multifamily development or as common use facilities accessory to
subdivisions and short subdivisions
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No covered pier covered moorage covered float or other covered structure is
permitted waterward of the ordinary high water mark.
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No pier moorage float. or over water structure or device shall be located
closer than 15 feet from the side property line extended. except that such
structures may abut property lines for the common use of adjacent property
owners when mutually agreed to bv the property owners in a contract recorded
with Kjng CountY a copy of which must accompany an application for a-
building permit or a shoreline permit. such ioint use piers may be permitted UP
to twice the surface area allowed bv this title-
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All piers. moorages floats or other such structures shall float at all times on
the surface of the water or shall be of open pile construction provided no
portion of the structure shall during the course of the normal fluctuations of
the elevation of the water body. protrude more than five feet above the surface
of the water
Sec. 18-165.06. Residential piers, moora!!e, or launchin!! facilities. Accessorv to
residential development.
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Piers moora~es floats or launchin~ facilities may be permitted accessory to a sin~le
family residence multifamily development, or as common LIse facilities associated with a
subdivision, in accordance with this chapter and the following limitations
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l'r/\'ale silllZ/e residence piers for the sole LIse of the property owner shall not
be permitted outright on City of Federal Way shorelines
A pier may be allowed when the applicant has demonstrated a need for
moorage and has demonstrated that the following alternatives have been
investigated and are not ayailable or feasible
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Commercial or marina moorage.
Floating moorage buoys.
Joint use moorage pier.
No more than one pier for each residence is permitted. On lots with less than
50 feet of waterfront only ioint use piers shall be permitted except when both
lots abutting the subiect lot haye legally established piers then the lot with less
than 50 feet of waterfront may be permitted an individual pier.
MlIllip/e fami/v residence piers and piers associated with a subdivision as a
common use facility shall not exceed the following'
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No more than one pier for each 100 feet of shoreline associated with the
multifamily development subdivision or short subdivision is permitted
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The total number of moorage spaces shall be limited to one moorage
space for every two dwelling units in the multifamily development,
subdivision or short subdivision.
Pier and moorage size.
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The maximum waterward intrusion of anv portion of any pier shall be
36 feet or the point where the water depth is 13 feet below the or'dinarv
high water mark, whichever is reached first provided:
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If a pier is a common use pier associated with a multiple family
development or subdivision this intrusion may be increased four
feet for each additional moorage space over six moorage spaces
to a maximum of 76 feet
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The maximum width of each pier shall be eight feet
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No float shall have more than 100 square feet of surface area
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The total surface area of piers moorages floats. and/or launching
facilities or anv combination thereof associated with a single familv
residence shall not exceed 500 square feet
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No pier including finger pier moorage float, or over water structure or
device, shall be wider than 25 percent of the lot with which it is
associated
Moora¡ze /Jifes. Moorage piles not constructed in conjunction with a pier are
limited bv the following conditions
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All piles shall be placed so as to not constitute a hazard to navigation.
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No pile shall be placed more than 80 feet waterward of the ordinary
high water mark.
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All moorage piles shall be placed in a water dePth not to exceed 13 feet
below the ordinary high water mark.
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No more than two moorage piles per residence are permitted.
Launching ramps and lift stations require a shoreline conditional use permit and
are limited bv the following conditions
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No portion of a launching ramp or lift station shall be placed more than
60 feet waterward of the ordinary high water mark.
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All portions of a launching ramp or lift station shall be placed at a
dePth not to exceed eight feet below the ordinary high water mark
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Launching rails or ramps shall be anchored to the ground through the
use of tie-tvpe construction Asphalt concrete, or other ramps which
solidlv cover the water bodv bottom are prohibited
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No more than one launching rail per single familv residence is
permitted and no more than two common use launching ramps for each
100 feet of shoreline associated with a multifamilv development short
subdivision or subdivision
Floats are limited under the following conditions
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One float per single familv residence multifamilv development short
subdivision, or subdivision is permitted
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No portion of a float shall be placed more than 36 feet waterward of the
ordinary high water mark
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Retrieval lines shall not !loat at or near the surface of the water
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No !loat shall have more than 100 square feet of surface area
Sec. 18-165.07. Utilities.
Utilitv facilities may be permitted in the urban environment subiect to the requirements
of this chapter provided
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Utility and transmission facilities shall
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Avoid disturbance of unique and fragile areas
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Avoid disturbance of wildlife spawning nesting and rearing areas
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Overhead utility facilities shall not be permitted in public parks.
monuments scenic recreation or historic areas
Utility distribution and transmission facilities shall be designed so as to:
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Minimize visual impact
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Harmonize with or enhance the surroundings
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Not create a need for shoreline protection.
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Utilize to the greatest extent possible natural screening.
The construction and maintenance of utility facilities shall be done in such a
way so as to:
Maximize the preservation of natural beauty and the conservation of
resources.
Minimize scarring of the landscape.
Minimize siltation and erosion.
Protect trees shrubs. grasses natural features and topsoil from drainage.
Avoid disruPtion of critical aquatic and wildlife stages.
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:1
i.
Rehabilitation of areas disturbed bv the construction and/or maintenance of
utility facilities shall
'L
Be accomplished as rapidly as possible to minimize soil erosion and to
maintain plant and wildlife habitats
\L
Utilize plantings compatible with the native vegetation
Solid waste transfer stations shall not be permitted within the shorelines of the
state
Sec. 18-165.08. Office and commercial development.
Office development may be allowed in the urban environment subiect to the
requirements of this chapter provided:
.L
L
The office or commercial use or activity is permitted in the underlying zoning
classification
Office and commercial development shall maintain a setback behind the
stringline setback. or 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark whichever is
greater except in the following cases:
'L
If the property is developed with a structure within 75 feet of the
ordinary high water mark. then the structure can only be added to if the
addition will not make the structure any more nonconforming as to its
setback
\L
If a development is proposed on shorelines that include one or more
sensitive areas as defined in Chapter 22 of this code such development
shall maintain setbacks in accordance with regulations and procedures
set forth in Article XIV of Chapter 22.
.l.
Piers moorages. floats and launching facilities will not be permitted in
coni unction with office or commercial development unless they are developed
as part of on-site public access to the shoreline.
Sec. 18-165.09. Shoreline protection.
-14-
Shoreline protection may be permitted in the urban environment provided
.L
Bulkheads shall not be considered an outright permitted use on the Puget Sound
shoreline In order for a proposed bulkhead to be permitted on the Puget Sound
shoreline or for a lake shore bulkhead to qualify for the RCW
90 58 030(3)(e)(iii) exemPtion from the shoreline permit requirements the City
of Federal Way shall review the proposed bulkhead design as it relates to local
physical conditions and the City of Federal Way shoreline master program and
must find that
;L
Erosion from waves or currents presents a clear an imminent threat to a
legallv established residence one or more substantial accessory
structures, or public improvements
12..
The proposed bulkhead is more consistent with the intent of the City of
Federal Way shoreline master program in protecting the site and
adioining shorelines than other non structural alternatives such as slope
drainage systems vegetative growth stabilization gravel berms and
beach nourishment and that such alternatives are not technically feasible
or will not adequately protect a legally established residence or
substantial accessory structure.
"-
The proposed bulkhead is located landward of the ordinary high water
mark: and
1.
The maximum height of the proposed bulkhead is no more than one
foot above the elevation of extreme high water on tidal waters, or four
feet in height on lakes
£.
A shoreline protection proiect replacing an existing bulkhead shall be placed
along the same alignment as the shoreline protection it is replacing subiect to
the following:
!h
When a bulkhead has deteriorated such that the ordinary high water
mark has been established by the presence and action of water landward
of the existing bulkhead then the replacement bulkhead must be located
at or as near as possible to the actual ordinary high water mark.
l2..
When an existing bulkhead is being repaired by the construction of a
vertical wall fronting the existing wall it shall be constructed no further
waterward of the existing bulkhead than is necessary for construction of
new footings.
h
Beach nourishment and bioengineered erosion control projects may be
considered a normal protective bulkhead when any structural elements
are consistent with the above requirements and when the proiect has
been approved by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
1.
Shoreline protection shall not have adverse impact on the property of others
and shall be designed so as not to create a need for shoreline protection
-15-
elsewhere
;L
Shoreline protection shall not significantly interfere with normal surface
and/or subsurface drainage into the water body and shall be constructed
using an approyed filter cloth or other suitable means to allow passage
of surface and groundwater without internal erosion of fine material.
12-
Shoreline protection shall not be used to create new lands except that
groins may used to create or maintain a public Class I beach if they
comply with all other conditions of this section
"-
Groins are permitted only as part of a public beach management
program Jetties and breakwaters are not permitted
Sec. 18-165.10. Recreation.
Recreational deyelopment may be permitted in the urban enyironment subject to the
general requirements of this chapter. proyided:
-16-
1-
The recreational deyelopment is permitted in the underlying zone.
L
Swimming areas shall be separated from boat launch areas.
;L
The deyelopment of underwater sites for sport diying shall not
!h
Take place at depths of greater than 80 feet
!L
Constitute a navigational hazard.
"-
Be located in areas where the normal waterborne traffic would constitute
a hazard to those people who may use such a site.
~
The construction of swimming facilities piers moorages floats. and launching
facilities below the ordinarv high water mark shall be governed by the'
regulations of sections 18.165.05 and 18.165.06 of this chapter
i.
Public boat launching facilities may be developed proyided:
!h
The traffic generated by such a facility can be safely and conveniently
handled by the streets serving the proposed facility
!L
The facility will not be located on a Class 1 beach
§..
Upland facilities constructed in conjunction with a recreational development
shall be setback and/or sited to avoid contamination of the shorelines of the
~
L
Public pedestrian and bicvcle pathwavs shall be permitted adiacent to water
bodies
~
Public contact with unique and fragile areas shall be permitted where it is
possible without destroving the natural character of the area
'L
Water viewing nature studv recording and viewing shall be accommodated bv
space platforms benches or shelter consistent with public safetv and securitv
Sec. 18-165.10. Salmon and Steel head Habitats
:L
~
L
Structures which prevent the migration of salmon and steelhead shall not be
allowed in the portions of the water bodies used bv fish Fish bvpass facilities
shall allow the upstream migration of adult fish. Fish bypass facilities shall
prevent fry and iuveniles migrating downstream from being trapped or harmed
~
Landfills shall not intrude into salmon and steel head habitats except as
provided in regulation 3
1-
Landfills may intrude into salt water areas used bv salmon and steehead for
migration corridors rearing feeding and refuge onlv where the proponent
obtains a conditional use permit (CUP) and demonstrates all of the following
conditions are met:
a. The landfill is for water-dependent or water-related use
b. An alternative alignment or location is not feasible;
c. The proiect is designed to minimize its impacts on the environment
d. The facility is in the public interest and
e. If the proiect will create significant unavoidable adverse impacts the impacts
are mitigated bv creating in-kind replacement habitat near the proiect: Where
in-kind replacement mitigation is not feasible rehabilitating degraded habitat
may be required as a substitute.
Unless the applicant demonstrates that bioengineering techniques will not be
successful bulkheads and other shoreline protection structures are prohibited in
salmon and steel head habitat:
Where bulkheads and other shoreline protection structures are allowed the toe
-17-
-18-
!L
of the bulkhead or structure shall be located landward of the ordinary high
water mark except as provided in regulation 6 below Where an existing
bulkhead or structure cannot be removed because of environmental safety, or
geological concerns the least environmentally impacting alternative shall be
used Any replacement bulkhead or shoreline protection structure shall be as
close to the existing structure as possible
Bulkheads, breakwaters, jetties groins and other shoreline protection structures
may intrude into salmon and steel head habitats only where the proponent
demonstrates all of the following conditions are met:
a. An alternative alignment or location is not feasible:
b The project is designed to minimize jts impacts on the environment:
c. The facility is in the public interest and
d. If the project will create significant unavoidable adverse impacts, the impacts
are mitigated by creating in-kind replacement habitat near the project Where
in-kind replacement mitigation is not feasible rehabilitating degraded habitat
may be required as a substitute
L
Docks piers pilings and floats may be located in water areas used by salmon
and steel head for migration corridors rearing, feeding and refuge, provided the
facilities use open piling construction Approach fills shall be located landward
of the ordinary high water mark. Docks piers pilings and floats shall not be
located in other salmon and steel head habitats The project shall be designed to
minimize its impacts on the environment
~
Open pile bridges are the preferred water crossing structures over salmon and
steel head habitats. If a bridge is not feasible one of the following water
crossing structures may be approved if the impacts are acceptable: temporary
culverts bottomless arch culverts elliptical culverts or round culverts. These
structures are listed in priority order with the first having the highest
preference and the last the lowest preference. In order for a lower priority
structure to be permitted, the applicant must show the higher priority structures
are not feasible. The project shall be designed to minimize its impacts on the
environment
~
Bridges and in-water utility corridors may be located in salmon 'and steel head
habitat provided the proponent shows that all of the following conditions are
met:
a. An alternative alignment is not feasible:
lli
b The project is located and designed to minimize its impacts on the
environment;
c. Anv alternative impacts are mitigated and
d. Anv landfill is located landward of the ordinary high water mark. Open
piling and piers required to construct the bridge mav be placed waterward of
the ordinary high water mark if no alternative method is feasible
Notwithstanding regulation 4 when installing in-water utilities the installer
mav place native material on the bed and banks of the water bodv or wetland
to reestablish the preconstruction elevation and contour of the bed The project
shall be designed to minimize its impacts on the environment
Dredging which will damage shallow water habitat used bv salmon and
steelhead for migration corridors rearing feeding and refuge shall not be
allowed unless the proponent demonstrates all of the following conditions are
met:
a. The dredging is for a water-dependent or water-related use:
b. An alternative alignment or location is not feasible:
c. The project is designed to minimize its impacts on the environment:
d. The facilitv is in the public interest and
e. If the proiect will create significant unavoidable adverse impacts the impacts
are mitigated bv creating in-kind replacement habitat near the proiect Where
in-kind replacement mitigation is not feasible rehabilitating degraded habitat
mav be required as a substitute.
lL
Dredging and the removal of bed materials below the water line is prohibited
within salmon and steelhead spawning areas. .
ß
In-water dredge spoil disposal sites shall not be located in salmon and steelhead
habitats
II
Landfilling dredging channelization sand other activities which negatively
impact habitat values are prohibited in wetlands ponds and side channels
which provide refuge or other habitat for salmon or steelhead
1..1-
Within salmon and steel head habitats. permanent channel changes and
realignments are prohibited
l2..
Aquaculture uses shall not be established in salmon and steel head habitat
-19-
~
lL
.ill..
except for areas that are onlv used for migration corridors This regulation
onlv applies to in-water aquaculture uses not upland aquaculture uses
The removal of aquatic and riparian vegetation within or adiacent to salmon
and steclhead habitats shall be minimized Trees which shade side channels
streams rivers ponds and wetlands used bv salmon and steel head shall be
maintained Areas of disturbed earth shall be revegetated
Unless removal is needed to prevent hazards to life and propertv or to enhance
fish habitat large wood v debris below the ordinary high water mark shall be
left in the waterwav to provide salmon and steel head habitat
Outfalls within or upstream of salmon or steel head spawning areas shall be
designed and constructed to minimize disturbance of salmon and steelhead
spawning beds.
Sec. 18-166. Rural environment.
Sec. 18-166.01. Purpose
The purpose of designating the rural environment is to restrict intensive development
function as a buffer between urban areas and maintain open spaces and opportunities for
recreation uses within the ecological carrying capacitv of the land and water resource. New
developments in a rural environment should reflect the character of the surrounding area bv
limiting intensitv providing permanent open space and maintaining adequate building
setbacks from the water to prevent shoreline resources from being destroved for other rural
tvpes of uses.
Sec. 18-166.02. Desie:nation criteria.
Designation criteria for the rural environment shall be:
.L
6-
Shorelines of the citv used or designated for residential development at a-
densitv of three units per acre or less.
Shorelines of the citv developed for residential purposes where surrounding
land use is residential in character without all urban services
1-
Shorelines of the citv to be designated rural shall not have limitations to
development due to sensitive areas such as floodplains steep slopes slide
hazard areas and/or wetlands.
Sec. 18-166.03. General requirements.
-20-
The general requirements for development within a rural environment shall be the
same as those for the urban environment section 18.165.03.
Sec. 18-166.04. Residential development.
Single family residential development may be permitted in the mral environment
subject to the general requirements of the residential provisions of section 18.16504 of the
urban environment
Sec. 18-166.05. Residential piers. mooral!:e, or launchinl!: facilities.
Piers, moorages, floats or launching facilities may be permitted accessory to a single
family residence in accordance with sections 18.165.05 and 18.16506 of the urban
environment
Sec. 18-166.06. Subdivisions.
The lot standards enumerated in this section applv to any lot that has buildable area
within the shorelines of the city Buildable area means that area of the lot exclusive of any
required open space yards or setbacks upon which a stmcture mav be constmcted.
1-
The minimum required area of a lot in the mral environment shall be five
acres. provided however.
iL
The minimum lot area may be reduced to 15000 square feet when:
.L All lots are part of an approved subdivision or short subdivision
£. All lots are served bv public water
.:L All lots are served bv an approved sewage disposal system
:L All lots are served bv paved streets.
~ All lots have a minimum width of JOO feet
£.
Anv lot located wholly or partially within the shorelines of the city shall be
subiect to the substandard lot provisions of Chapter 22 Article Iv. .
.:L
Submerged land within the boundaries of any waterfront parcel shall not be
used to compute lot area lot dimensions yards open space, or other similar
required conditions of land subdivision or development
Sec. 18-166.07. Utilities.
Utility facilities may be permitted in the mral environment subject to the utilities
requirements of the urban environment and the general requirements of section 18.165.03
Sec. 18-166.08. Shoreline protection.
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Shoreline protection may be permitted in the rural enyironment subject to the shoreline
protection proyisions of section 18.16509 of the urban environment
Sec. 18-166.09. Recreation.
Recreational development may be permitted in the rural environment subject to the
general requirements of this chapter and the recreation provisions section 18.165.10 of the
urban environment.
See 18-166.10. Salmon and Steelhead Habitat
Salmon and steelhead habitat shall be protected under section 18.165.1011-18)
Sec. 18-167. Conservancy environment.
Sec. 18-167.01. Purpose.
Conservancy areas are intended to maintain their existing character. This designation is
designed to protect conserve and manage existing natural features and resources. The
preferred uses are those nonconsumptive of the physical and biological resources of the area.
Sec. 18-167.02. Designation criteria.
Designation criteria for the conservancy environment shall be.
1,.
Shoreline areas regardless of the underlying zoning which have
environmentally sensitive areas as defined in 18.28.
L
Shoreline areas that have poor drainage.
;L
Shoreline areas which are free from extensive development.
~
Shoreline areas of high scenic value
Sec. 18-167.03. General reQuirements.
The general requirements for development within a conservancv environment shall be
the same as those for the urban environment. section 18.165.03
Sec. 18-167.04. Residential development.
Single family residential development may be permitted in the conservancy
environment subject to the general requirements of Chapter 22, Article XI and the residential
provisions of section 18.16504 of the urban environment provided single family residential
development shall maintain a minimum setback of 50 feet from the ordinary high water mark,
-22-
except that.
.L
L
If the development is proposed on shorelines including one or more sensitive
areas as defined in Chapter 22 Article XIV such development shall be done
in accordance with that article.
Anv pier moorage, float or launching facilitv permitted accessorv to single
familv development or a common use facilitv accessorv to a subdivision or
short subdivision shall be subiect to the pier moorage float. and launching
facilitv provisions of section 18-165.06 of the urban environment provided no
such authorized structure shall be located within 200 feet of anv other structure
Sec. 18-167.05. Subdivisions.
The lot standards enumerated in this section applv to anv lot that has buildable area
within the shorelines of the citv Buildable area means that area of the lot exclusive of anv
required open space vards or setbacks upon which a structure mav be constructed.
.L
The minimum required area of a lot in the conservancv environment shall be
five acres provided however:
1L
The minimum lot area mav be reduced to 35000 square feet when
.L All lots are part of an approved subdivision or short subdivision.
L All lots are served bv public water.
;L All lots are served bv an approved sewage disposal svstem
i. All lots are served bv paved streets.
~ All lots have a minimum width of 100 feet.
L
Anv lot located whollv or partially within the shorelines of the city shall be
subiect to the substandard lot provisions of Chapter 22 Article IV.
1-
Submerged land within the boundaries of any waterfront parcel shall not be
used to compute lot area lot dimensions yards open space or other similar
required conditions of land subdivision or development. .
Sec. 18-167.06. Utilities.
Utility facilities may be permitted in the conservancY environment subject to the
utilities requirements of the urban environment and the general requirements of this chapter.
Sec. 18-167.07. Shoreline protection.
Shoreline protection may be permitted in the conservancy environment subject to the
shoreline protection provisions section 18.165.09 of the urban environment
-23-
Sec. 18-167.08. Recreation.
Recreational development may be permitted in the conservancv environment subject to
the general requirements of this chapter and the recreation provisions section 18 165. 10 of the
urban envi ronment.
Sec. 18-167.09. Salmon and Steehead Habitat
Salmon and steelhead habitat shall be protected under section 18.165. 10 (1-18)
Sec. 18-168. Natural environment.
Sec. 18-168.01. Purpose.
The purpose of designating the natural environment is to preserve and restore those
natural resource systems existing relatively free of human influence These systems require
severe restrictions of intensities and types of uses permitted so as to maintain the integrity of
the natural environment.
Sec. 18-168.02. Desi2nation criteria.
Designation criteria for the natural environment shall be.
.L
L
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A shoreline area that provides food. water or cover and protection for any rare
endangered or diminishing species
A seasonal haven for concentrations of native animals. fish. or fowl such as a
migration route breeding site or spawning site.
;L
Shoreline areas considered to best represent the basic ecosystem and geologic
types which are of particular scientific interest.
:L
Shoreline areas which best represent undisturbed natural areas.
~
Shoreline areas with established histories of scientific research.
§..
Those shoreline areas having an outstanding or unique scenic feature in their
natural state.
L
In addition to the above criteria the following should be considered when
designating natural environments.
11.
!L
Areas where human influence and development are minimal.
Areas capable of easily being restored to a natural conditions.
Saltwater wetlands
f..
sL
Class I beaches
Sec. 18-168.03. Residential development.
Sin~.de familv residential development mav be permitted in the natural environment
subject to the general requirements of Chapter 22, Article XI and the single family
provisions, section 18 165.04 of the urban environment provided single familv residential
development shall maintain a minimum setback of 100 feet from the ordinary high water
mark, except that
.L
If development is proposed on shorelines including one or more sensitive areas
as defined in Chapter 22, Article XIV such development shall be done in
accordance with regulations and procedures set forth in that article
Sec. 18-168.04. Residential piers. moora!!e. or launchin!! facilities.
Piers moorages floats or launching shall not be permitted in a natural environment.
Sec. 18-168.05. Subdivisions.
.L
The minimum required area in the natural environment shall be five acres.
b
The minimum required lot width in the natural environment shall be 330 feet
¿
Anv lot located wholly or partially within the shorelines of the city shall be
considered a le!!al building site provided that such lot shall be subject to the
substandard lot provisions of Chapter 22. Article IV.
~
Submerged land within the boundaries of any waterfront parcel shall not be
used to compute lot area. lot dimensions yards open space or other required
conditions of land subdivision or development.
Sec. 18-168.06. Shoreline protection.
Shoreline protection shall not be permitted in the natural environment.
Sec. 18-168.07. Recreation.
Recreational development may be permitted in the natural enyironment subject to the
general requirements of this chaPter provided:
-25-
1-
The recreational development will not require anv si¡;nitìcant fillin¡;,
excavation, or re¡;radin¡; involvin¡; more than 15 percent of that portion of the
site within the shorelines of the citv
~
The construction of indoor swimmin¡; pools ¡;vms and other indoor
recreational facilities is prohibited.
1-
Piers moora¡;es floats or launchin¡; facilities constructed in coni unction with
recreational development shall not be permitted except that floatin¡; walkwavs
or other similar over water pedestrian structures facilitatin¡; access to
observation points or viewing areas mav be permitted
Sec. 18-168.08. Salmon and Steelhead Habitat
Salmon and steelhead habitat shall be protected under section 18.165.10 (1-18)
DIVISION 3. PROCESS
Sec. 18-M4 169. Application and public notice.
An application for a substantial development permit shall be made to the department of
community development on forms prescribed by the department Upon submittal of a
complete application, and required fees, the department shall instruct the applicant to publish
notices of the application at least once a week on the same day of the week for two
consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation within the city. The applicant shall
also provide additional public notice as prescribed in process IV, section 22-431 et seq.
(Ord. No. 90-38, § 1(24.40),2-27-90; Ord. No. 97-291, § 3, 4-1-97)
Cross reference(s)--PIocess IV review requirements, § 22-431 et seq
Sec. 18--1-65 170. Procedure for review.
The substantial development permit shall be reviewed under the provisions of process
III, section 22-386 et seq. and the director of community development services shall be the
final approval authority for the permit
(Ord No. 90-38, § 1(24.50),2-27-90; Old. No 97-291, § 3, 4-1-97)
Cross reference(s)--Process III review requirements, § 22-386 et seq.
Sec. 18-lM ill. Shoreline variance.
(a) The purpose of a shoreline variance is to grant relief to specific bulk, dimensional
or performance standards set forth in the shoreline master program, and where there is an
extraordinary or unique circumstance relating to the property such that the strict
implementation of the shoreline master program would impose unnecessary hardship on the
applicant or thwart the policies of the Shoreline Management Act
(b) When a variance is requested, the substantial development permit and the variance
-26-
shall be reviewed under the provisions of process IV, section 22-431 et seq, and the hearing
examiner shall be the final approval authority.
(c) A variance from the standards of the master program may be granted only when
the applicant can demonstrate that all the following conditions will apply
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
That the strict requirements of the bulk, dimensional or performance standards
set forth in the master program precludes or significantly interferes with a
reasonable use of the property not otherwise prohibited by the master program;
That the hardship described above is specifically related to the property, and is
the result of unique conditions such as irregular lot shape, size, or natural
features, and the application of the master program, and not for example, from
deed restriction or the applicant's own actions;
That the design of the project will be compatible with other permitted activities
in the area and will not cause adverse effects to adjacent properties or the
shoreline environment;
That the variance authorized does not constitute a grant of special privilege not
enjoyed by other properties, and will be the minimum necessary to afford
relief;
That the public interest will suffer no substantial detrimental effect;
That the public rights of navigation and use of the shorelines will not be
adversely affected by the granting of the variance when the proposal is for
development located waterward of the ordinary high-water mark, or within
marshes, bogs or swamps; and
That consideration has been given to the cumulative effect of like actions in an
area where similar circumstances exist, and whether this cumulative effect
would be consistent with shoreline policies or would have substantial adverse
effects on the shoreline
(d) Shoreline variances may not be used to permit a use that is specifically prohibited
in an environment, or to vary uses permitted within an environmental designation.
(Ord. No 90-38, § 1(24.6010--24.60.40),2-27-90; Ord. No. 97-291, § 3, 4-1-97)
Cross refcrcnce(s)--Proccss IV revIew requirements, § 22-431 et scq.
Sec. 18-lß+ 172. Conditional uses.
(a) Conditional use permits are allowed to provide greater flexibility in varying the
application of the use regulations of the shoreline master program in a manner which will be
consistent with the policies of RCW ch 90.28, particularly where denial of the application
would thwart the policies of the Shoreline Management Act.
-27-
(b) When a conditional use is requested, the substantial development permit and the
conditional use shall be reviewed under the provisions of process ¥ IV, section 22-476 et
seq, and the city council shall be the final approval authority
(c) Conditional uses have unique and special characteristics which require a special
degree of control to make the uses compatible with other existing or permitted uses in the
same environment, and to assure that the use is in the public interest In authorizing a
conditional use permit, special conditions may be attached to the permit by the city council to
prevent undesirable effects or mitigate environmental impacts of the proposed use
(d) Conditional use permits shall be authorized only when they are consistent with the
following criteria
(I)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
The proposed use is consistent with the policies of RCW 90.58.020 and the
policies of the master program;
The use will not interfere with normal public use of surface waters;
The use will cause no unreasonable adverse effects on the shoreline or
surrounding properties or uses, and is compatible with other permitted uses in
the area;
The public interest will suffer no substantial detrimental effect;
Consideration has been given to cumulative impact of additional request for
like actions in the area.
(e) Other uses not set forth in the shoreline master program may be authorized through
a conditional use permit if the applicant can demonstrate that extraordinary circumstances
preclude reasonable use of the property; however, uses specifically prohibited by the master
program may not be authorized.
(Ord. No. 90-38, § 1(24.70.10--24.70.50), 2-27-90)
Cross reference(s)--Proeess III review requirements, § 22-476 et seq.
Sec. 18-~ 173. Final approval of substantial development permits.
(a) The director of community development shall notify the following agencies or
persons within five days of the final approval of a substantial development permit and any
variances or conditional uses granted:
(I)
(2)
-28-
The applicant;
The state department of ecology;
(3)
The state attorney general,
(4)
Any person who has submitted written comments on the application;
(5)
Any person who has requested notification in writing prior to final approval of
the permit.
(b) No work may commence on a site requiring a substantial development permit until
30 days following the date of receipt of the substantial development permit by the state
department of ecology, and written notification has been received from the department of
ecology that the review period has been completed.
(Ord. No. 90-3X. § ](24 XO 10,24.8020),2-27-90)
See. 18-M9 174, Combined hearing authority.
In those cases when development proposed in the shorelines may require a public
hearing under the authority of other chapters of this Code, the hearings may be combined.
(Ord. No. 90-38, § ](2490),2-27-90)
Sec. 18-l'm 175. Alteration or reconstruction of nonconforming use or development.
(a) Applications for substantial development or building permits to modify a
nonconforming use or development may be approved only if
(I)
The modifications will make the use or development less nonconforming; or
(2)
The modifications will not make the use or development more nonconforming
(b) A use or development, not conforming to existing regulations, which is destroyed,
deteriorated, or damaged more than 75 percent of its fair market value may be reconstructed
only consistent with regulations set forth in this article.
(Ord. No. 90-38, § ](24.100),2-27-90)
Sec. 18-170.176. Shoreline environment redesil!nation.
A. Shoreline environments designated by the master program may be redesignated by
the City Council upon finding that such redesignation will be consistent with
1. The policies of Section 2 of the Shoreline Management Act of 1971
2. The goals objectives and policies of the master program:
3. The designation criteria of the shoreline environment designation requested
-29-
Federal Way Comprehensive Plan - Land Use
ATTACHMENT
B
office development that allows for a mix of office and
compatible manufacturing type activities. Changes to
the Office Park c.lassification will permit a limited
amount of retail support services, along with the
current mix of office and light manufacturing uses.
Goal
LUG8
Create office and corporate park develop-
mentthat is known regionally for its design
andfunction.
Policy
LUP49
Continue to encourage quality office
development in West and East Campus
Office and Corporate Park designations.
Corporate Park
The Corporate Park designation applies to Weyer-
haeuser property generally located east of Interstate
Highway 5. The property is a unique site, both in
terms of its development capacity and natural features.
The Corporate Park f€P-I7 land use designation
applies only to the Weyerhaeuser Corporate Campus.
The Corporate Park designation is surrounded by
Office Pttrk designations ðfwith OP-I, 2, & 3 zoning.
The CðII<:3pemdirlg Office Park zones are anticipated
to develop as corporate headquarters, offices and as
ancillary useS. These types of developments are
characterized by large contiguous sites containing
landscaping, open space, and buildings of superior
quality. The Office Park zones are for the develop-
ment of other corporate headquarters and office parks
that serve to complement Weyerhaeuser Corporate
headquarters. Development standards and conditions
for these two - designations are unique to Weyer-
haeuser's property and are outlined in a preannexation
concomitant ~ development agreement entered
into by the City and Weyerhaeuser Corporation.
2.8.5 SHORELINE MASTER
PROGRAM
Purpose
The Shoreline Management Act (SMA) identifies
seven land and water use elements that if appropriate
to the communitv are to be dealt with in the develop-
ment of area-wide shoreline goals. Thev include:
shoreline use. economic develooment public access.
conservation. recreation. historical/cultural. and
circulation. Master programs are also encouraged to
include anv other elements which. because of present
uses or future needs are deemed appropriate to
effectuate the policv of the Shoreline Management
Act.
Residential land use of shorelines of the state within
Federal Wav makes up the largest share of the
developed shorelines in the citv. Much of the undevel-
oped shoreline is in private ownership. subdivided
into small lots and presentlv zoned to allow for
residential USe. Because of present arid future needs of
residential shoreline use goals and policies have been
fonnulated as part of a residential element to guide
and plan for that development.
The following comprehensive set of shoreline goals
provide the foundation and framework on which the
balance of the master program has been based. These
goals and policies are reflective of the level of
achievement believed to be intrinsicallv desirable for
all shoreline uses. needs. and developments. and
establish a program policv commensurate with the
intent and obiectives of the Shoreline Management
Act. The policies contained herein should be enforced
through the applicable chapters of the Federal Way
City Code.
Revised October 1998
11.19
Federal Way Compmhensive Plan - Land Use
Shoreline Use Element
An clement which deals with the distrihution,
location, and extent of: I) the use of shorelines and
adiaeent areas for honsing, transportation, office,
public buildings and utilities, education and natural
resources; 2) the use of the water for aquaculture and
recreation; and 3) the use of the water, shoreline, and
uplands for other categories of land and water uses
and activities not specified in this master program.
Goal
LUG9
Policies
LUPSO
LUPSI
LUPS2
LUPS3
LUPS4
LUPSS
Preserve or develop shorelines adjacent
uDlands and adiacent water areas in a
manner that assures a balance of shoreline
uses with minimal adverse effect on the
{)ualitv of life. water, and environment.
Shoreline land and water areas particularlv
suited for specific and appropriate uses
should be designated and reserved for such
uses.
Shoreline land and water uses should satisfv
the economic, social. and phvsical'needs of
the regional population, but should not
exceed the phvsical carrying capacity of the
shoreline areas.
Where appropriate land and water uses
should be located to restore or enhance the
land and water environments.
Like or compatible shoreline uses should be
clustered or distributed in a rational manner
rather than be allowed to develop
haphazardlv.
Multiple uses of shoreline should be
encouraged where location and integration
of compatible uses or activities are feasible.
Unique and fragile areas of the shoreline
should be protected from uses or activities
LUPS6
LUPS7
that will have an adverse effect on the lancj
or water environment.
Non-residential uses or activities which are
not shoreline dependent should be encour-
aged to locate or relocate awav from the
shoreline.
Federal Wav shall consider the goals,
objectives, and policies within the shoreline
master program in all land use management
actions regarding the use or development of
adiacent uplands or the water areas, adjacent
uplands and associated wetlands or streams
within its iurisdietion where such use or
development will have an adverse effect on
designated shorelines.
Public Access Element
An element making provision for public access to
publiclv-owned shorelines and assessing the need for
providing public access to shoreline areas.
Goal
LUGIO
Policies
LUPS8
Increase public access to shoreline areas
Drovided that private rirzhts Dublic safetv
and the natural shoreline character are not
adverselvaffected
Development of public access should
respect and protect the eniovment of private
rights on shoreline properlY.
!h
Shoreline access areas should be planned to
include aneillarv facilities such as parking
and sanitation when appropriate.
Q.,
Shoreline access and aneillarv facilities
should be designed and developed to
provide adequate protection for adjacent
private properties.
Revised October 1998
11.20
Fede,al Way Comp,ehens;ve Plan - land Use
LUP59
LUP60
LUP61
LUP62
Public access should be maintained and
regulated.
"-'
Public access shuuld be policed and
improyed consistent with intensity of use.
LUP63
LUP64
!L
Public pedestrian easements should be
provided in future land use authorizations,
and in the case of Federal Way projects
alon~ lakes. streams. ponds. and marine
lands. whenever shoreline features are
appropriate for public use. Shorelines of the
citv that include. but are not limited to any
of the following conditions should be
considered for pedestrian easements:
!L
The proyision to restrict access as to nature.
lime, number of people. and area may be
appropriate for public pedestrian easements
and other public access areas where there
are spawning grounds, fragile aquatic life
habitats or potential hazard for pedestrian
safety.
Areas of significant. historical. geo-
logical and/or biological circumstances.
Areas presentlv being legally used, or
historical Iv having been legally used, by
the public along the shoreline for
~
1. Where public funds have been expended
on or related to the waterbody.
1
L
Shorelines of the city should be ayailable to
all people for passive use and enioyment.
i!.,
Viewpoints. lookouts. and vistas of shore-
lines of the city should be publicly
accessible.
£,.
Facilities in public shoreline access areas
should be properly maintained and operated.
!L
New developments should minimize visual
and physical obstruction of the water from
shoreline roads and upland owners.
Design of access should proyide for the
public health. safety. and enjoyment.
i!.,
Appropriate signs should be used to
designate publicly owned shorelines.
General policies.
i!.,
Where appropriate, utility and transpor-
tation rights-of-way on the shoreline should
be made available for public access and use.
!L
Within the shoreline environment pedes-
trian and non-motorized access should be
encouraged.
!L
Publicly-owned street ends which abut the
shoreline should be retained and/or re-
claimed for public acceSS.
£,.
Public access to and along the water's edge
should be available in publiclv-owned
shorelines that are tolerant of human
activity.
£,.
Shoreline recreational facilities and other
public access points should be connected by
trails. bicycle pathwavs and other access
links where appropriate.
Priority for access acquisition should
consider resource desirability availability,
and proximity of population.
i!.,
A shoreline element in the parks acquisition
and development program should be
encouraged so that future shoreline access is
acquired and developed bv established
criteria and standards as part of an oyerall
master plan.
>L
Public pedestrian easements and access
points should be of a nature and scale that
would be compatible with the abutting and
i!.,
Public access should be provided in new
shoreline developments.
There should be incentives to encourage
private property owners to proyide shoreline
access.
Revised Octobe, 1998
11.21
Federal Way Compreh.n>;ve Plan - Lond U,e
adiacent land use as well as natural features,
includine aquatic life.
~
Access development should respect and
protect ccoloeical and aesthetic values in
the shorelincs of the citv.
Conservation Element
An element which deals with the preservation of
natural shoreline resources, considering, but not
limited to, such characteristics as scenic vistas,
parkways, vital estuarine areas for fish and wildlife
protection, beaches, and other valuable natural or
aesthetic features.
Goal
LUG 11
Policies
LUP65
LUP66
Assure Tireser"a!ion o( ¡/111m," and non-
renewable na!ural resources and assure
eonserva/ion o(renewable natural
resources (ar the benefit a( existinrz and
(uture rzeneratians and the Dubhe interest.
Shorelines which are of unique or valuable
natural character should be acquired for
public benefit, commensurate with
preservation of the ecosvstem.
ih
Unique and fragile areas in shoreline areas
should be designated and retained as open
space. Access and use should be restricted
or prohibited when necessarv for their
preservation.
LUP67
LUP68
LUP69
ih
Through policies and actions, Federal Wav
should encouraee the management and
conservation of lish, shellfish wildlife, and
other renewable resources.
12..,
When appropriate, Federal Way should
acquire those shoreline areas which are
unique or valuable. Subsequent use of such
areas should be governed by their ecological
carrying capacity.
Resource conservation should be an integral
part of shoreline plannine.
ih
When feasible, Federal Way should initiate
programs to reverse any substantial adverse
impacts caused by existing shoreline
development.
All renewable natural resources should be
manaeed so that use or consumption does
not exceed replenishment.
12..,
All future shoreline development should be
planned. designed, and sited to minimize
adverse impact upon the natural shoreline
environment.
Scenic. aesthetic, and ecological qualities of
natural and developed shorelines should be
recognized and preserved as valuable
rcsources.
ih
When appropriate, natural flora and fauna
should be preserved or restored.
12..,
In shoreline areas, the natural topography
should not be substantiallv altered.
L
Shoreline structures should be sited and
designed to minimize view obstruction and
should be visuallv compatible with the
shoreline character.
!l
Wildlife and aquatic habitats, including
spawning grounds, should be protected,
improved, and if appropriate increased.
Resources should be managed to enhance
the environment with minimal adverse
effect.
ih
Aquaculture in shoreline areas should be
conducted with all reasonable precautions to
insure the preservation of the natural
charactcr and qualitv of the shoreline.
Rev;sed October 1998
11.22
Fed.,a! Way Comp,ehens;ve Plan - Land Use
Luno
Q.,
Shoreline activity and development should
be planned, constructed, and operated to
minimize adyerse effects on the natural
processes of the shoreline and should
maintain or enhance the quality of air, soil,
and water on the shoreline.
lessmea to the maximum extent possible.
Si~llifìcallt U/w\'oidable impacts .~hould be
miti~ated bv creotill~ ill-kind replacemellt
habilatllear the prmeet where feasible.
Where in-kind replacemelll milifwtion is nol
feasible rehabilitatilll! del!raded habilal
IlIa\' be reQuired MlIil!ation proposals
should be developed in consullalioll wilh Ihe
affecled locall!overnment Ihe Deoarlmelll
of Fisheries. the Department of Wildlife.
alld affected Illdiall Nalions.
~
Developments which are oulside salmon
and sleelhead habitats but which have the
potential to sil!lIificantly affect Ihese habi-
lals should be localed and des¡¡med so Ihey
do IlOt creale sil!lIificanl nel!alive imoacts
Oil salmon and steelhead habitats.
f..,
Any structure or activity in or near the water
should be constructed in such a way that it
will minimize adyerse physical or chemical
effects on water Quality yegetation, fish,
shellfish or wildlife.
L
Bioelll!ineerinl! is the ",derred bank 01'0-
tection techniQue for rivers alld slreams
used b\' salmoll alld steelhead.
!L
Use or activitv which substantiallv degrades
the natural resources orthe shoreline should
not be allowed.
~
Opell vile bridr!es are orderred for crossinl!
water areas used bv salmon and sleelhead.
Salmoll and steelhead habitats suovorl
valuable recrealiollal and commercial fish-
eries. These habitats should be orolected
because of their importance to the aaualic
ecos"stem alld Ihe state and local econom\"
g"
Salmoll and steelhead habitats are:
L Gravel bollomed streams used for
svawninl!;
~ Streams lakes. and wellands used for
rearinl!, feedinl! and cover and rdul!e
from oredalors and hil!h waters;
~ Streams and salt water bodies used as
mil!ralioll corridors; alld
;L Shallow areas of sail water bodies used
for rearilIl! feedilll!. alld cover alld
rdul!e from oredators alld currelIts,
!l:
Imoervious surfaces shall be millimized ill
uolalld developments to reduce stormwaler
rulloff peaks- Structures alld uses crealilIl!
sil!lIifìcalIl imoervious surfaces shall ilI-
efude slormwaler delelIlion sYslems 10 re-
duce stormwaler rulloff oeaks-
!l,
Non-waler-dependenl or non-waler-relaled
uses, aclivilies slruclures and landfills
should 1101 be localed in salmon and sleel-
head habilals-
L
The discharl!e of sifl inlo walerways shall
be minimized durinl! in-waler and uoland
construction.
£"
Where allernative locatiolls exist. water-
dependent alld waler-relaled uses. activ-
ilies slructures and landfills should not be
localed in salmon and steelhead habilats-
l
AdoOI-A-Slream vrOl!rams and similar
efforts 10 rehabifitale salmon and sleelhead
soawninl! streams are encoural!ed.
1:
Where uses activities structures, and land-
fills I/l1Ist locate in salmon and steelhead
¡whita!.,- il/macts on these areas should he
!£.
Fisher\' enhancemellt proiecls are encour-
al!ed where they wi/( not sil!nifìcantl\'
illlerfere with other beneficial uses-
L
I>mieet proponents should contact the Habi-
tot Manal!emelll Divisioll of the Deparlmelll
of F/lheries the Hahitat Division oflhe
Rev;sed Octob", 1998
11-23
Federal Way Comprehens;ve Plan - land Use
Deparlmefll of Wildlife or affected Illdiall
NaliollS earlv ill the developmellt ",ocess to
delermille if the liralio,wl will occur ill or
adiacelllto a salmoll alld slee/head hahilat
IlI=
Whell reviewilli! permits for uses, activities,
alld structures IJr(JI}osed for salt water
areas streams wet/allds, pollds collllected
10 streams, alld shorelilles adiacellt/(} these
areas; staff should colltactlhe Hahital
Mallap;emelll Divisioll of the Deparlmellt of
Fisheries or the Habital Divisioll oflhe
Departmelll of Wildlife /() delermille if the
!JroDosal win occur ill or affect all adiacellt
salmoll or steelhead habitat, Staff should
also colllact affected Illdiall Nalions,
Recreation Element
An element for the preservation and expansion of all
types of recreational opportunities through programs
of acquisition, development. and various means of
less-than-fee acquisition.
Goal
LUG 12
Policies
HfP:;{)
LUP71
Provide addiliollal shoreline deDelldellt alld
water oriellled recrealioll oDDorlullities thaI
are diverse convellienl. alld adequate for
the relliollal DoDulalion consistent with the
Carryinll caDacitv of the land and water
resources,
Areas containing special shoreline recrea-
tion qualities not easilv duplicated should be
available for public use and enjoyment.
!!.,
Opportunities should be provided for the
public to understand natural shoreline pro-
cesses and experience natural resource
features.
WP7f
LUP72
Q.,
Public viewing and intcrpretation should be
encouraged at or near governmental shore-
line activities when consistent with security
and public safety.
Shorelinc recreational use and development
should enhance environmental quality with
minimal adverse effect on the natural
resources.
!!.,
Stretches of relatively inaccessible and
unspoiled shoreline should be available and
designated as low intensity recreational tlse
areas with minimal development. Service
facilities such as footpaths, periphery
parking, and adequate sanitary facilities
should only be allowed where appropriate.
Q.,
Beaches and other predominantlv un-
developed shorelines alreadv popular should
be available and designated as medium in-
tensitv recreational use areas to be free from
expansive development. intensity of use
should respect and protect the natural
qualities of the area.
f.,
Small or linear portions of the shoreline
suitable for recreational purposes should be
available and designated as transitional use
areas that allow for variable intensities of
use which may include vista points pedes-
trian walkways. water entry points. and
access from the water' utilizing stream
floodplains street ends, steep slopes. and
shoreline areas adiacent to waterfront roads.
Q.,
At suitable locations shorelines should be
made available and designated as high
intensive use areas that provide for a wide
variety of activities.
""
Overall design and development in shore-
line recreational areas should be responsive
to the site characteristics of those areas and
bc consistent with the level of use in the
area concerned.
Revised October 1998
11.24
Fede'a! Way Camptehens;ve Plan - land Use
:i::fJP'R
LUP73
bf!P-B
LUP74
[
Recreation areas on the shoreline should
have adequate surveillance and
maintenance.
&
The public should be provided with addi-
tional off-site and on-site guidance and
control to protect shoreline resources,
h,
Where a wide berm is needed for dry beach
recreation. and phvsical conditions permit
sand retention. consideration should be
given to creating a Class I beach I when such
development does not destrov valuable biota
or unique physical conditions.
L
Access to recreational shoreline areas
afforded bv water and land circulation svs-
terns should be detennined bv the concept
of optimum carrying capacity and
recreational Quality.
L
Non-water oriented recreational facility
development should be kept inland away
from the water's edge. except where appro-
priate in high intensive shoreline use areas.
The provision of adequate public shoreline
recreation lands should be based on an
acquisition plan with a clear public intent.
A balanced variety of recreational oppor-
tunities should be provided for people of
different ages health. familv status. and
financial ability.
""
Appropriate specialized recreation facilities
should be provided for the developmentally
disabled. or others who might need them.
!L
Shoreline recreation areas should provide
opportunities for different use intensities
I P",,"al" to Federal Way Cilv Code. ChaDter 18. Article
III. Seclion 18-163. a "('fass I hcaeh means a beach m shore
having denendable. geologically rully developed. and normallv
dry haekshore ahove high lide,"
rangin~ ¡rom low (solitude) to hid, (manv
~
""
Opportunities for shoreline recreational
experiences should include developing
access that accommodates a range of
differences in people's phvsical mobilitv.
capabilities. and skill levels.
sl
Shoreline recreational experiences should
include a wide range of different areas from
remote-outdoor undeveloped areas to highly
developed indoor-outdoor areas.
~
Recreational development should meet the
demands of population growth consistent
with the carrying capacity of the land and
water resources.
Circulation Element
An element dealing with the location and extent of
existing and proposed maior thoroughfares. trans-
portation routes. and other public facilities: and
coordinating those facilities with the shoreline use
elements.
Circulation systems in shoreline areas
should be limited to those which are shore-
line deoendent or would serve shoreline
deoendent uses. The ohvsical and.social
environment shall be orotected from the
adverse effect of those systems on the
Qualirv of water life or environment.
New surface transportation development
should be designed to provide the best pos-
sible seryice with the least possible infringe-
ment upon the shoreline environment.
Revised Gclabe, 1998
Goal
LUG13
Policies
~
LUP75
11,25
Federal Way Comprehensive Plan - Land Use
WP-1-5
LUP76
HJ.P.76
LUP77
~
New transportation facilities and improve-
ments to existing facilities that sllhstantially
increase levels of air, noise, odor, vislial or
water pollution sholiid be discollraged.
H:JP'1-7
LUP78
WP18
LUP79
Shoreline circulation svstcms sholiid be
adaptable to changes in technology.
~
Federal Wav should promote and encourage
modes of transportation which consume the
least amollnt of energv while providing thc
best efficiency with the least possible
pollution.
General policies.
~
New transportation developments in shore-
line areas should provide turnout areas for
scenic stops and off road rest areas where
the topography view, and natural features
warrant.
ß
Transportation corridors should be designed
to harmonize with the topographv and other
natllral characteristics of the shoreline
throllgh which thev traverse.
ß
Shoreline roadwav corridors with lInique or
historic significant. or of great aesthetic
quality, should be retained and maintained
for those characteristics.
~
New transportation facilities crossing lakes,
streams. or wetlands should be encouraged
to locate in existing corridors, except where
any adverse impact can be minimized bv
selecting an alternate corridor.
~
Surface transportation tàcilities in shoreline
areas sholiid be set back from the ordinarv
high water mark far enollgh to make unnec-
s-sary such protective measures as rip-rap or
other bank stabilization, landfill. bulkheads
groins, ietties or substantial site regrade.
Residential Element
An element dealing with housing densities,.residential
subdivisions shoreline access, necessary support
services and locations of single-familv dwellings
(including manufactured homes) and multi-family
dwellings without distinction between part-time or
full-time occupancv.
Goal
LUG14
Shoreline residential areas shalf vermit a
varietv of hol/sinf! tvves and desif!ns with
densities and localians consistenl with Ihe
ability ofohnical and natl/ral feall/res to
accommodate them.
Circulation svstems should be located and
attractive Iv designed so as not to unneces-
sarilv or unreasonably pollute the phvsical
environment or reduce the benefits people
derive from their propertv: and they should
encourage alternative rOlltes and modes of
travel.
!h
Motorized vehiclilar traffic on beaches and
other natural shoreline areas sholild be
prohibited.
ß
Transportation facilities providing access to
shoreline developments should be planned
and designed in scale and character with the
use proposed.
~
Circlilation routes should provide for non-
motorized means of travel.
Circlilation systems disruptive to public
shoreline access and other shoreline lIses
should be relocated where feasible.
!h
Transportation elements disrllptive to the
shoreline character which cannot feasiblv be
relocatcd should be conditioned or land-
scaped to minimize visllal and noise
pollution.
Revised October 1998
11.26
Federal Way Comprehensive Plan - land Use
Policies
WP79
LUP80
HJ.P8(}
LUP81
Residential developments should be exclu-
ed from shoreline areas known to contain
development hazards or which would
adverselv impact sensitive areas as identi-
ied in Chapter 18. Division 6 of the Federal
Wav Citv Code.
!h
Residential development should be pro-
hibited in floodplains within the 100 vear
floodplain.
WP8f
LUP82
Hfl'If}
LUP83
ç,
LandfIll for residential development which
reduces water surface or floodplain capacity
should nut be permittcd.
~
Residential development should be pro-
hibited in areas of severe or very severe
landslide hazard.
!i
In residential developments the water's edge
should be kept free of buildings and fences.
ç,
Residential development should be regu-
lated in shoreline areas with slopes of 40
percent or greater.
~
Everv reasonable effort should be made to
insure the retention of natural shoreline
vege at ion and other natural features of the
landscape during site development and
construction.
!i
Shoreline areas containing other potential
hazards (e. g. geological conditions. un-
stable subsurface conditions. erosion
hazards. or groundwater or seeoage orob-
lems) should be limited or restricted for
development.
Residential use of shorelines should not
displace or encroach upon shoreline
dependent uses.
Residential densities should be determined
with regard for the physical caoabilities of
the shoreline areas. public services require-
mell1s. and effects such densities have on
the environment.
!h
Subdivisions and new develooment should
be designed to adequately protect the water
and shoreline aesthetic characteristics.
~
The burden of proof that development of
these areas is feasible. safe. and ecologically
sound is the resoonsibilitv of the deyelooer.
~
New residential develooment should only be
allowed in those shoreline areas where the
proyision for sewage disoosal and drainage
ways are of such a standard that adioining
water bodies would not be adversely affec-
ed by oollution or siltation.
Residential develooments should have min
mal impact on the land and water
environment of the shoreline and minimize
visual and physical obstruction.
!h
Residential development should be regu-
lated in identified unique and fragile areas
as required under the citv's sensitive areas
regulations.
£,
Residential development along shorelines
should be set back from the ordinary high
water mark far enough to make unnecessary
such protective measures as filling. bulk
heading. construction groins or ietties. or
substantial regrading of the site.
~
Residential development on Diers or over
water should not be permitted.
!i
Residential developments should be
designed to enhance the appearance of the
shoreline and not substantially interfere
with the public's view and access to the
water.
Revised October 1998
11.27
Federal Way Comprehensive Plan - land Use
Shoreline Environments
l'urrJOsc
In order to marc effectivelv implement the goals,
objcctives, and policies of this master program and the
Shorcline Managemcnt Act, the shorelines ofthc statc
within Fcderal Wav have been categorized into four
separate environment designations. The purpose of
these designations is to differentiate between areas
whose geographical features and existing development
pattern implv differing obiectives regarding their use
and future development.
Each environment represents a particular emphasis in
the type of uses and the extent of development which
should occur within it. The svstem is designed to en-
ouragc uses in each environment which enhance the
character of the environment while at the same time
requiring reasonable standards and restrictions on
development so that the character of the environment
is not destroved.
The determination as to which designation should be
given to anv specific shoreline area has been based on,
and is reflective of. the existing development pattern:
the biophvsical capabilities and limitations of the
land: and the goals and aspirations of the local
citizenry.
Each environment category includes: (]) a definition
describing the development. use, and/or features
which characterize the area: (2) a purpose which clari-
fies the meaning and intent of the designation: and, (3)
general policies designed to regulate use and develop-
ment consistent with the character of the environment.
Urban Environment
The urban environment is an area of high-intensity
land use including residential. office, and recreational
development. The environment is particularlv suitable
to those areas presentlv subiected to intensive land use
pressure as well as areas planned to accommodate
urban expansion.
Thc Durpose of dcsignating thc urban cnvironmcnt is
to cnsurc optimum utilization ofshorclincs within
urbanized areas bv pcrmitting intcnsivc use and bv
managing development so that it enhances and
mainains the shoreline for a multiplicitv of urban uses.
The environment is designcd to reflect a policv of
inreasing utilization and crtìciencv or urban areas.
promote a morc intensive level of use through
redevelopment of areas now underutilized, and
encourage multiple use or the shoreline irthe maior
use is shoreline dependent.
Policies
HfPlH
LUP84
LUI'lU
LUP85
LU,"85
LUP86
MfP86
LUP87
Hfl'8:¡
LUP88
WP88
LUP89
Emphasis should be given to development
within alreadv developed areas.
Emphasis should be given to developing
visual and phvsical access to the shoreline
in the urban environment.
To enhance the waterfront and insure max-
imum public use. commercial facilities
should be designed to penn it pedestrian
waterfront activities consistent with public
safetv and security.
Multiple use orthe shoreline should be
encouraged.
Redevelopment and renewal of substandard
areas should be encouraged in order to
accommodate future users and make
maximum use of the shoreline resource.
Aesthetic considerations should be activelv
promoted bv means or sign control regula-
tions. architectural design standards. land-
scaping requirements, and other such
means.
Rcv"ed October 1998
11.28
Federal Way Comprehensive Plan - land Use
WP89
LUP9(}
Development should not significantly
degrade the quality of the environment.
including water quality and air quality. nor
create conditions which would accentuate
erosion drainage problems. or other adverse
impacts on adjacent environments.
Rural Environment
The rural environment is intended for shoreline areas
characterized bv agricultural uses. low densitv resi-
dential (where most urban services are not available).
and areas which provide buffer zones and open space
between predominantly urban areas. Undeveloped
shorelines not planned for urban expansion or which
do not have a high priority for designation in an
alternative environment and recreational uses com-
patible with agricultural activities are aDDroDriate for
the rural environment.
The purpose of designating the rural environment is to
Dreserve agricultural land. restrict intensive develoD-
ment along undeveloDed shorelines. function as a
buffer between urban areas. and maintain ODen SDaces
and opportunities for recreational uses within the
ecological carrving capacitY of the land and water
resource. New developments in a rural environment
should reflect the character of the surrounding area by
limiting densitY providing permanent ODen space. and
maintaining adequate building setbacks from the
water to Drevent shoreline resources from being
destroyed for other rural tYDes of uses.
Policies
HfP9(}
LUP91
Recreational access to the shorelines should
be encouraged. Recreational facilities
should be located and designed to minimize
conflicts with other activities.
HJPIH-
LUP92
New development should reflect the
character of the surrounding area bv limit-
ing residential density providing permanent
open space. and maintaining adequate
building setbacks from the water.
Conservancy Environment
The conservancy environment consists of a shoreline
areas which are Drimaril, free from intensive develop-
ment. It is the most suitable designation for shoreline
areas of high scenic or historical values for areas un-
suitable for development due to bioDhvsicallimita-
tions. and for commercial foresi lands.
Conservancv areas are intended to maintain their exis-
ting character. This designation is designed to Drotect.
conserve. and manage existing natural resources and
valuable historic and cultural areas. The Dreferred uses
are those which are nonconsumDtive of the Dhvsical
and biological resources of the area.
Policies
-hffl1n
LUP93
HJP1B
LUP94
WP94
LUP95
M:IP95
LUP96
WP96
LUP97
H!P91-
LUP98
New develoDment should be restricted to
those which are comDatible with the natural
and bioDhvsicallimitations of the land and
water.
Diverse recreational activities which are
comDatible with the conservancy environ-
ment should be encouraged.
Development which would be a hazard to
public health and safetY. or would materi-
allv interfere with the natural processes
should not be allowed.
The flood hazard overzone regulations shall
aPDly to develoDment within flood Dlains.
Structural flood control devices should be
strong Iv discouraged in the conservancy
environment.
In areas with Doorlv draining soils. develoD-
ment should not be allowed unless con-
nected to a sewer line.
Rev"ed October 1998
11.29
Fede,al Way Compmhens,ve Plan - Land Use
&ffP98
LUP99
Development should be regulated so as to
minimize the following: erosion or sedi-
mentation, the adverse impact on aquatic
habitats, and substantial degradation of the
existing character of the eonservanev
environment.
Natural Environment
The natural environment consists of areas character-
ized bv the presence of some unique natural features
considered valuable in their undisturbed or original
condition and which are relatively intolerant of
intensive human use. Such areas should be essentially
free from development or be capable of being easilv
restored to natural condition, and thev should be large
enough to protect the value of the resource.
The purpose of designating the natural environment is
to preserve and restore those natural resource svstems
existing relatively free of human influence. These
systems require severe restrictions of intensities and
types of uses permitted so as to maintain the integrity
of the natural environment.
Policies
bffP99
LUP1OO Natural areas should remain free from all
develoDment which would adversely affect
their natural character.
HfPl(}(J
LUP1Ol
The intensitv and tvDe of uses Dennitted
should be restricted in order to maintain the
natural systems and resources in their
natural condition.
H:IPI:fH-
LUP1O2 Limited access should be allowed to those
areas in the natural environment.
HfPlfn
LUP1O3
Uses which are consumptive of the physical
and biological resources, or which may
degrade the actual or potential value of the
natural environment. should be prohibited.
WPHH
LUPJII4
Uses and aetivitics in locations adiacent to
natural areas should be stricllv regulated to
insure that thc integrity of the natural
environment is not comDromised.
Shoreline Use Activities
Purpose
Shoreline use activities are sDecific uses, or groups of
similar uses, that have been outlined by the DeDart-
ment of Ecology Final Guidelines as being character-
istic of the shorelines onhe state. They have been
formulated as imDlementing tools to further carry out
the intent and Dolicy of this master Drogram and the
Shoreline Management Act. Thév also reDresent a
maior criterion to be used in evaluating proposed
development and alterations to the shoreline environ-
ment: with their ultimate influence, to a large extent.
dependent upon how well thev are enforced.
The policies that make up each use activitv have been
founded on the premise that all reasonable and appro-
priate uses require regulatorv control. Other provi-
sions such as a view enhancement. public access,
erosion control water qualitv long tenn benefits, and
aesthetic considerations have also been reflected in
Dolicy statements.
Shoreline uses and activities not sDecifically identi-
fied, and for which Dolicies have not been develoDed,
will be evaluated on a case bv case basis and will be
required to meet the intent of the goals and obiectives
of this master program, the Dolicv of the Shoreline
Management Act. and shall be consistent with the
management policy and character of the shoreline
environment in which they Dropose to locate.
AQuatic Resource Practices
Of all facets of economic shoreline activity, pro-
duction from fisheries is the most vulnerable to
massive destruction from an error in environmental
control. Close monitoring of water quality and an
aggressive pol icv of pollution abatement and control
Rev>sed Oelobe, 1998
11.30
Federal Way Comprehensive Plan - Land Use
arc mandatorv ()f full realization and sustenance of
this economic base.
Aquaculture addresses stale haleheries, commercial
hatcheries and beds, and natural hatcheries and beds
within Federal Wav shorelines. Underwater aquaria
are considered as aquaculture although the use is
principallv recreational.
Aquaculture has two modes:
L
The harvest of uncontained plant and animal
populations that exist on the nutrients and foods
available in the environment restock themselves
according to the fecunditv of the population, and
survive as the food and nature allow.
L Artificial stocking or raising of stock in feedlots
or pens using selective breeding and controlled
feeding programs for increasing production and
rearing a unifonn product
Pen culture requires confinement and the presence of
fixed structures that compete for spaCe, Pens, rafts,
and hatcheries require certain environmental condi-
tions to assure the survival of their contained popula-
tions. Some of these conditions are small wave forces,
good flow, good water Quality, temperature limits,
good anchoring ground and accessibilitv, and, pos-
siblv, good natural food and nutrient supplv,
The confinement offish or shellfish in concentration
imposes an extreme biological load in a small area,
Dense populations degrade water quality and deposit
heavv fecal sediments below the pens or on the floor
of embayments. The principal impacts of aquacultural
activity within the shoreline are:
L Pollutants in the water bodv such as fish, organic
wastes and additives for feeding and disease
control.
L Navigation hazards such as holding pens, rafts,
nets, and stakes.
,L Watercourse alteration to supplv water.
:L Netting and nooring of river beds for spawning
channels.
2..0 Shoreline access limitations where shelltish arc
being protected and contained.
I)olicics
bffP-HJ4
LUPIOS
Federal Wav's support should be given to
the State Departments of Fisheries and
Game to improve stream conditions, open
new spawning areas, and establish new fish
runs.
WPlfJ5
LUPIO6 Pens and structures for commercial aqua-
culture should not be located on Class I
beaches. or swimming beaches.
HfPlf}6
LUPIO7 Aquacultural enterorises should be located
in areas which would not significantlv
restrict navigation.
-Hfl1HP
LUPIO8 In aquaculture enterprises, development of
multiple aquaculture systems should be
encouraged.
HfPl(}8
LUPIO9 Aquacultura' structures shou'd use open pile
construction where significant littoral drift
occurs.
WP-lf}l)
LUPllO
Prior to use of an area for aquacultural
enterorises, consideration should be given to
the capability of the water body to absorb
potential wastes.
HJl1J-H}
LUPll1 Shoreline areas having extremelv high
natural potential for aquaculture should be
preserved for that puroose.
Rev"ed October 1998
11.31
Fede,al Way Comp,ehen,'ve Plan - land Uoe
Commercial Development
Commercial development pertains ~enerally to the use
or construction of facilities for transaction and sale of
~oods and services as opposed to industrial develop-
ment (treatment to~ether with ports) which pertains to
the desi~n and Llbrication of products.
The principal impact factors upon the shoreline from
commercial development are pollutants (e.g" erosion.
sedimentary. chemical. and microbial) and aesthetic
destruction. Erosive pollutants from commercial
development are ~enerated from surface runoff and
both surface and sub-surface subsidence. Chemical
pollution is derived from fuel spillage. Microbial
loading arises from poor containment of organic
wastes associated with human habitation and recrea-
tional activities.
Policies
HfPfH
LUPIn Consideration should be made of the effect
a structure will have on scenic value.
b-lJPf-H
LUPIJ3
bffPH3
LUPI14
Hff1.fH
LUP1l5
Commercial structures and ancillary facili-
ties that are not shoreline dependent or
water-oriented should be placed inland
awav from the immediate water's edge.
The use of porous materials should be
encouraged for paved areas to allow water
to penetrate and percolate into the soil. Use
of holding systems should be encouraged to
control the runoff rate from parking lots and
roof taps.
Commercial enterprises locating within
shoreline areas should be constructed to
withstand normal rain and flooding con-
ditions without contributing pollution to the
watercourse or shoreline.
HfPH5
LUPlI6 Commercial development which is not
shoreline dcpendent should provide a buffer
zone of ve~etation for erosion control.
lJ tilities
Few. if any. utility systems could be installed com-
pletely without coming under the jurisdiction of this
master pro~ram. The focus of the policies in this
section is on how these utility facilities within the
shoreline environment can be planned. designed.
constructed. maintained. and rehabilitated to be
consistent with the intent of the Shoreline
Management Act.
Types of utilitv facilities in Federal Way vary from
regional transmission bv trunklines. pipelines. and
transmission lines to subregional distribution facili-
ties. These are essentially pipes and wires. Regional
facilities generally are high voltage or high pressure
svstems with substantial potential impact in case of
failure. Their impacts on the environment are also
generally greater because of their scale and safety
requirements.
The types of utilities covered are communications
(radio. TV. and telephone). energy distribution
(petroleum products. natural gas. and electricity).
water. sanitary sewers. and storm sewers.
Policies
HJPH6
LUPIl7
Utilities which lead to growth should not be
extended into or along shorelines without
prior approval of such extension by appro-
priate land use authority.
HJPl-1-1
LUP1l8 Utilities located in shoreline enyironments
inappropriate for development should not
make service available to those areas.
WPH8
LUPlI9 In developed shorelines not served by
utilities. utility construction should be
encoura~ed to locate wherc it can be shown
Rev"ed Octobe' 1998
11.32
Federal Way Comprehensive Plan - Land Use
hfJPH-9
LUPJ20
WPHO
LUPI2J
WPHl-
LUPl22
~
LUP123
Hff'fH
LUP124
that water quality will be maintained or
improved.
Federal Way should be consulted prior to
or at the time of. application for construc-
tion of regional utilitv facilities to be
located in or along shorelines.
Utility corridors crossing shorelines of the
state should be encouraged to consolidate
and concentrate or share rights-of-way
where:
!L
Public access (including view) would be
improved.
!.h
Concentration or sharing would not hinder
the ability of the utility systems to be in-
stalled operated. or maintained safely.
£.,
Water quality would be as good or better
than if separate corridors were present.
Public access consistent with public safety
and security should be encouraged where
rights-of-way for regional utility facilities
cross shorelines of the city.
New utility facilities should be located so as
neither to require extensive shoreline pro-
tection nor to restrict water flow. circula-
tion or navigation.
Utility facilities and rights-of-wav should be
selected to preserve the natural landscape
and minimize conflicts with present and
planned uses of the land on which they are
located.
H:JPJ.M
LUPJ25 New utilit\" routes should be designed to
minimize detrimental visual impact from
the water and adiacent uplands.
HfPH5
LUPJ26 New free standing personal wireless service
facilities are discouraged from locating
within the shoreline environment.
Shoreline Protection
Shoreline protection is action taken to reduce adverse
impacts caused by current. flood. wake. or wave
action. This action includes all structural and non-
structural means to reduce these impacts due to
flooding. erosion. and accretion. Specific structural
and nonstructural means included in this use activity
are bulkheads. rip-rap. bank stabilization. and other
means of shoreline protection.
The means taken to reduce damage caused bv erosion.
accretion and flooding must recognize the positive
aspects of each. so that the benefits of these natural
occurrences will be retained. even as the problems are
dealt with. Erosion does not exist without accretion of
material eroded be it a bench or a sandbar. Likewise.
accretion cannot occur unless material has been
eroded.
Policies
HfPH6
LUP127
Structural solutions to reduce shoreline
damage should be allowed only after it is
demonstrated that nonstructural solutions
would not be able to reduce the damage.
HfPfH
LUP128
Planning of shoreline protection should
encompass sizable stretches of lake or
marine shorelines. This planning should
consider off-site erosion. accretion. or flood
damage that might occur as a result of
shoreline protection structures or activities.
WPH8
LUP129 Shoreline protection on marine and lake
shorelines should not be used as the reason
for creating new or newlv usable land.
Rev;,ed October' 998
1133
Federal Way Comprehensive Plan - land Use
H!PH9
LUP1311 Shoreline protection structures should allow
passa~e of ~round and surface waters into
the main water body.
H:fPl-3()
LUP13I Shoreline protection should not reduce the
volume and storage capacity of rivers and
adjacent wetlands or flood plains.
bYPl-H
LUPI32
Whenever shoreline protection is needed.
bioengineered alternatives such as natural
berms and erosion control vegetation plans
should be favored over hard surfaced struc-
tural alternatives such as concrete bulkheads
and sheet piles.
lÆPlH
LUPIn The burden of proof for the need for shore-
line protection to protect existing or pro-
posed developments rests on the applicant.
HJPH.3
LUPI34
Shoreline protection activities which may
necessitate new or increased shoreline
protection on the same or other affected
properties where there has been no previous
need for protection should be discouraged.
hffPB.f
LUPI35 New development should be encouraged to
locate so as not to require shoreline
protection.
HfP:l-35
LUPI36
Areas of significance in the spawning.
nesting. rearing. or residency of aquatic and
terrestrial biota should be given special
consideration in reviewing of shoreline
protection actions.
WPH6
LUPI37 Shoreline protection actions should be
discouraged in areas where they would
block beach parent material.
WPH-7
LUP138 Multiple use of shoreline protection struc-
tures or nonstructural solutions should be
encouraged.
Transportation Facilities
The circulation network use category addresses trans-
portation facilities such as roads. railroads. bridges.
trails. and related facilities. The impact of these facil-
ities on shorelines can be substantial. Some existing
facilities were constructed to serve transportation
needs of the moment with a minimum expenditure and
verv little assessment of their primarv or secondary
impacts on shoreline aesthetics. public access to the
water. and resultant effects on adiaeent properties and
water Quality. Planning for new-transportation facil-
ities within the shoreline area today requires a greater
awareness of the environmental impacts transportation
facilities will have on shorelines. in addition to the
necessitv for integrating future shoreline land use
plans with the transportation svstem that serves
developments on the shoreline.
Policies
WPH8
LUPI39
Pedestrian access should be built where
access to public shorelines is desirable and
has been cut off by I inear transportation cor-
ridors. New linear facilities should enable
pedestrian access to public shorelines where
access is desirable.
HJPf39
LUP140
New surface transportation facilities not
related to. and necessary for the support of.
shoreline activities should be set back from
the ordinary high water mark far enough to
make unnecessary protective measures such
as rip rap or other bank stabilization. land-
fill. bulkheads. groins. ietties. or substantial
site regrade.
HfPl-4fI
LUPI4I Shoreline transportation facilities should be
encouraged to include in their design and
Revised October 1998
11.34
Federal Way Comprehensive Plan - Land Use
HJPHf
LUPl42
~
LUPl43
HJJ1J-..H
LUPl44
H:!-P-l-#
LUPl45
development multi-modal provisions where
public safetv can be assured.
Shoreline transportation facilities should be
planned to fit the topography and minimize
cuts and tills' and should be designed lo-
cated. and maintained to minimize erosion
and degradation of water Quality and to give
special consideration to shoreline aesthetics.
Transportation and utility facilities should
be encouraged to coordinate ioint use of
rights-of-way and to consolidate crossings
of water bodies when adverse impact to the
shoreline can be minimized bv doing so.
Transportation facilities should avoid shore-
line areas known to contain development
hazards (e.g. slide and slump areas poor
foundation soils. marshes etc.).
Transportation facilities should minimize
shoreline rights-of-way bv orienting gener-
ally perPendicular to the shoreline where
topographic conditions will allow.
Hff'H5
LUPl46 Shoreline roadways should have a high
priority for arterial beautification funds.
WPH6
LUPl47 Abandoned road or railroad rights-of-way
which contain uniQue shoreline amenities
should be acQuired for public benefit.
HJPf4-7
LUP148 Federal Way should extend its trail and
bicycle trail system. particularly as it relates
to shorelines. to western Federal Way.
HJP-f48
LUP149 All transportation facilities in shoreline
areas should be constructcd and maintained
to caLIse the least possible adverse impacts
on the land and water environments. should
respect the natural character of the shore-
line. and should make every effort to pre-
serve wildlife. aquatic life and their
habitats.
Picrs and Moorages
A pier is a structure built over or floating upon the
water extending from the shore. Some arc used as a
landing place for marine transport or for recreationa I
watercraft. Piers are designed and constructed as
either water (floating) or pile supported. both ofwhich
have positive and negative environmental aspects.
Floating piers generally have less of a visual impact
than those on piling and thev provide excellent protec-
tion for swimmers from boat traffic. Floating piers
however. interrupt littoral drift and can starve down
current beaches where pile piers do not. Pile piers can
provide a diverse habitat for marine life. Both types
can create impediments to boat traffic and near-shore
trolling. Pier construction reQuires regulation to pro-
tect navigation rights. preserve shoreline aesthetics.
and maintain the usable water surface and aquatic
lands for life forms characteristic and important to
those areas.
Policies
HJPf49
LUPJ50
Open pile pier construction should be pre-
ferred where there is significant littoral
drift. where scenic values will not be im-
paired. and where minimal alteration to the
shoreline and minimal damage to aquatic
resources can be assured.
HJPf5(}
LUP151 Floating pier construction should be pre-
ferred in those areas where scenic values are
hii\!b
HfPf5f
LUPJ52
Piers should be discouraged where conflicts
with recreational boaters and other recrea-
tional water activities would be created b\
pier construction.
Revised October 199B
1I.3ó
Federal Way Comp'ehen"ve Plan - Land Use
HIPl-9
LUPlD
HIP/-5-3
LUP154
Thc random proliferation of sinQlc purpose
piers should be discoura~ed. Preference
should be givcn to shared use of piers in all
shorel ine areas.
Temporarv mooraQes should be permitted
for vessels used in the construction of
shoreline fàcilities. The design and con-
struction of such moorages shall be such
that upon termination of the proiect the
aquatic life can be returned to their original
condition within one vear at no cost to the
environment or the public.
HJPf5,4
LUP155 Shoreline structures that are abandoned or
structurally unsafe should be abated.
HIPf55
LUP156
Substantial additions or alterations, inclu-
ding but not limited to substantial develop-
ments, should be in conformance with the
policies and regulations set forth in the
master program.
H!Pf56
LUP157 Piers, docks buovs, and other moorages
should only be authorized after consid-
eration of:
!!.,
Q.,
The effect such structures have on wildlife
and aquatic life, water quality, scenic and
aesthetic values, unique and fragile areas,
submerged lands, and shoreline vegetation.
The effect such structures have on naviga-
tion, water circulation, recreational and
commercial boating, sediment movement
and littoral drift and shoreline access.
HfPf5-7
LUP158 Moorage buovs should be preferred over
floatin~ and nile constructed piers on all
tidal walers.
LUP159
FIoat;lI!! slruetllres alld o{Jelll,;le structures
are Iwe(áred ()\'('/' Iulld/ills or sulid slrue-
tllres ;11 1\'(1I('/' urms IIsed hv sallllull alld
slee/head.
Recreation
Recreational cxpcricnces that depend on, or utilize,
the shoreline include: harvestin~ activities of fish,
shellfish, fowl. minerals, and driftwood; various forms
of boating, swimmin!!, and shoreline pathways; and
watching or record in!! activities, such as photography,
painting, or the viewing of water dependent activities.
Principal focal points are at parks and access beaches,
road ends, viewpoints features of special interest,
water-access points, and destination points for boaters.
Facilities at these focal points may include fishing
piers, swimming floats. paths. parking areas, boat
ramps, moorings, and accessory recreational facilities.
The management of recreational land is determined bv
balancing the recreational carrying capacity (or impact
of the environment on people) and the ecological car-
rying capacity (the impact of people on the environ-
ment). Measures to accomplish this are by designation
of areas for use-intensity, interpretation, and regula-
tion. These different recreational use areas coincide
with the four environments-natural conservancy,
rural. and urban. There are multiple benefits derived
from the park program, for example: recreational
lands contribute substantiallv to open space bv
conservation of land, preserving historic sites, offering
aesthetic relief and variety, contributing to a healthful
environment. and shaping and preserving the com-
munity fonn. In addition to the provisions of recrea-
tional opportunities, Federal Wav coordinates with
other governmental agencies, commercial. and volun-
teer groups to provide these opportunities for the
public. The policies are directed toward providing
shoreline dependcnt and water oriented recreational
opportunities. They are also directed at protecting
health and safety bv separating incompatible activities
and channeling them into their most appropriate
environments.
Revised Octob", 1998
11.36
Fede,al Way Comprehensive Plan - Land Use
>olicics
LUr15H
LUPI611
WPl-59
LUPI6I
The development of recreational acquisition
plans should give emphasis to the acqui-
sition of prime recreation lands prior to their
being preempted for other uses.
In open spaces having an established sensc
of nature, improvements should be limited
to those that are necessarv and unlikelv to
detract from the primary values of the site.
HfP-f6(J
LUPI62 The siting of all developments should aim to
enhance and protect the area concerned.
H!Pf6f
L UPI 63
~
LUPl64
Structural forms should harmonize the topo-
graphv, reinforce the use area, minimize
damage to natural resources, and support
recreation with minimal conflict.
New buildings should be made svmpathetic
to the scale, fonn, and proportion of older
development to promote hannonv in the
visual relationships and transitions between
new and older buildings.
H:fP-}(d
LUPI65 Whenever possible, natural materials should
be used in developing shoreline recreational
areas.
bffPHt4
LUPI66 Artificial irrigation and fertilization should
be restricted to high-intensitv use areas.
HfPM5
LUPI67 Existing buildings that enhance the char-
acter of the shoreline should be used for
recreation wherever possible.
HfP-Ht6
LUPI6H Underwater parks should be extensions of
shoreline ~ parks, or be created by or
enhanced bv artificial reefs where natural
conditions or aquatic life could be observed
~ minimally interfereðncc ffitIt. -
hl:JPf(ff
LUPI69 Public recreational shoreline areas should
serve as emergencv havens of refuge for
boaters.
HfPMI!
LUPI711
Phvsical and/or visual access to the water
should use steep slopes, view points from
bluffs, stream vallevs and features of
special interest where it is possible to place
pathwavs consistent with public safetv with-
out requiring extensive flood or erosion
protection.
HfPfft9
LUPIn The acquisition of public easements to the
shoreline through private or quasi-public
shorelines should be encouraged.
HJ.P.J.7(}
LUPI72
Existing public recreation shorelines should
be restored where it is possible to reveg-
etate: resite roads and parking areas that are
close to the shoreline; and remove stream
channelization and shoreline protection
devices when the facilitv has either deterio-
rated or is inconsistent with the general
goals of this program.
HJPH.f
LUPI73 Prime fishing areas should be given prioritv
for recreational use. .
HJP.J-n
LUPI74 Boating activities that increase shore ero-
sion should be discouraged.
HJlll-H
LUPl75
Effective interpretation should be provided
to raise the qualitv of visitor experiences
and provide an understanding of the
resource.
Rev"ed October 1998
11.37
Fede'al Way Comp'ehensive Plan - Land Use
Residential Devclonment
The shorelines in Federal Way are more widely used
for residential purposes than for anv other use. Much
of the undeveloped shorelinc is privately-owned, sub-
divided into small lots, and zoned to permit residential
development.
The pressure to develop shorelines for residential uses
has continued to result in property subdivision and
escalating waterfront land values. Residential devel-
opment of shorelines is accomplished in a variety of
ways from large plats and subdivisions to single lot
development for housing; any of which. ifpoorlv
planned, can culminate in the degradation of the
shoreline environment and water resource.
The Shoreline Management Act generally exempts
".. . construction on shorelands by an owner, lessee or
contract purchaser of a single family residence for his
own use or the use of his family..." from its permit
reQuiremcnts. However, even though single familv
homes are not considered substantial developments,
the intent of the act has established the basis for
planning and regulating them.
Policies
l::f:!Pl-14
LUPI76
Residential developments should be per-
mitted only where there are adequate pro-
visions for utilities. circulation, access, site
lavout, and building design,
HIPl-1-5
LUPI77
Subdivisions should be designed at a level
of density, site coverage. and occupancv
compatible with the phvsical capabilities of
the shoreline and water body.
HfPR6
LUPI78
Residential development plans submitted
for approval should contain provisions for
protcction of ~roundwater supplics, erosion
control landscaping, and maintenance of
the shorcline integrity.
HfPH-7-
LUPI79
H!PJ.78
LUPI80
HIPl-19
LUP181
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LUP182
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Rcsidcntial subdivisions should be designed
so as to protect watcr qualitv shoreline
aesthetic charactcristics. vistas. and normal
public use ofthc water.
Subdivisions should provide public pedes-
trian access to thc shorelines within the
development in accordance with public
access element of this master program.
The established velocity, Quantitv. and
Quality of storm water discharge should be
considered in terms of the sensitivitv of the
proposed receiving environment. The dis-
posal mode selected should minimize
changes in infiltration, runoff. and ground-
water recharge.
Developers of recreational proiects such as
summer homes cabins, campgrounds. and
similar facilities should satisfactorilv
demonstrate:
The suitabilitv of the site to accommodate
the proposed development without adver-
sely affecting the shoreline environment and
water resource.
Adequate provisions for all necessary
utilities, including refuse disposal. and the
compatibility of the development with
adiacent properties and surrounding land
uses.
That recreational opportunity exists on the
site and does not depend on adiacent public
land to furnish the activity.
Revised Octo be, 1998
11.38