Ordinance 15-024 Adopts SMP CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
SPOKANE COUNTY,WASHINGTON
ORDINANCE NO. 15-024
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY, SPOKANE COUNTY,
WASHINGTON REPEALING THE SHORELINE MASTER PROGRAM AND
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS IN CHAPTER 21.50 AND APPENDIX 21-H OF THE
SPOKANE VALLEY MUNICIPAL CODE, ADOPTING THE 2015 SHORELINE
MASTER PROGRAM AND NEW CHAPTER 21.50 SPOKANE VALLEY MUNICIPAL
CODE,AND OTHER MATTERS RELATING THERETO.
WHEREAS, in 1972,the public adopted the Shoreline Management Act,codified at Chapter 90.58
RCW (SMA), by way of referendum to "prevent the inherent harm in an uncoordinated and piecemeal
development of the state's shorelines"; and
WHEREAS,RCW 90.58.080 requires local governments to develop or amend master programs for
the regulation and uses of the shorelines of the state consistent with the guidelines adopted by the
Washington State Department of Ecology(Ecology); and
WHEREAS, RCW 90.58.020 directs local governments developing shoreline master programs to
give preference to uses in the shorelines in the following order of preference which: 1)recognize and protect
the State-wide interest over local interest; 2) preserve the natural character of the shoreline; 3) result in
long-term over short-term benefit; 4) protect the resources and ecology of the shoreline; 5) increase public
access to publicly-owned areas of the shorelines; 6) increase recreational opportunities for the public in the
shoreline; and 7) provide for any other element as defined in RCW 90.58.100 deemed appropriate or
necessary; and
WHEREAS, in 2003, Ecology adopted new rules, pursuant to RCW 90.58.200, which gave
procedural and substantive direction to local jurisdictions for updating shoreline uses and regulations,which
became effective January 17, 2004; and
WHEREAS, when it incorporated in 2003, the City of Spokane Valley (City) adopted Spokane
County's then-existing Shoreline Master Program as the City's Shoreline Master Program(SMP). Pursuant
to RCW 90.58.080, the City is required to adopt a comprehensive master program update consistent with
the criteria set forth in Ecology's guidelines (chapter 173-26 WAC); and
WHEREAS,two bodies of water within the City are regulated under the City's SMP, including the
Spokane River and Shelley Lake. The Spokane River is designated as a "shoreline of statewide
significance"and Shelley Lake is designated as a"shoreline of the state"; and
WHEREAS, in the fall of 2009, the City began its SMP update (the SMP Update) without the
assistance of grant funding from Ecology; and
WHEREAS, as part of the SMP Update,the City has conducted an extensive public input process;
and
WHEREAS, the SMP Update process specified that individual components of the SMP Update
would be reviewed and accepted separately by City Council resolution,and further recognized that as each
component was completed, it would be used as a base upon which to develop the remainder of the SMP
Update and was not intended to remain as a stand-alone document; and
WHEREAS, the City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program Update Inventory and
Characterization Report, dated April 4, 2010, Amended September 7, 2010, was accepted by the City
Council pursuant to Resolution No. 10-014 (Inventory); and
Ordinance 15-024 Page 1 of 4
WHEREAS, the Shoreline Master Program Goals and Policies was accepted by the City Council
pursuant to Resolution No. 12-004; and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline Master Program Environment Designations was accepted by the City
Council pursuant to Resolution No. 12-007; and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline Restoration Plan was accepted by the City Council pursuant to
Resolution No. 12-012 (Restoration Plan); and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline Public Access Plan was accepted by the City Council pursuant to
Resolution No. 13-001 (Public Access Plan); and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline Master Program Development Regulations were accepted by the City
Council pursuant to Resolution No. 14-009; and
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 14-020 on December 9, 2014, to conclude
that the SMP Update included the necessary master program elements required pursuant to WAC 173-26-
191(b), the master program basic requirements set forth in WAC 173-26-191(2), and the general master
program provisions set forth in WAC 173-26-221 in order to submit the City's completed and updated SMP
to Ecology for its review and approval; and
WHEREAS, RCW 36.70A.480 provides that the goals and policies contained in a local shoreline
master program shall be considered an element of the City's Comprehensive Plan adopted under the Growth
Management Act, chapter 36.70A RCW and that this cannot take effect until after Ecology has approved
the document; and
WHEREAS,the City is in the process of completing a periodic update of the Comprehensive Plan
and intends to incorporate the Goals and Policies of the SMP into the Comprehensive Plan as part of the
update,which will happen at a later date; and
WHEREAS, on March 2,2015 the SMP was submitted to Ecology for review; and
WHEREAS, Ecology began the agency's review process by providing an initial public comment
period for the SMP that opened April 20, 2015 and closed May 20, 2015; and
WHEREAS, on May 27, 2015, Ecology forwarded the comments it received to the City,
acknowledging that the comments were received after the comment period had closed; and
WHEREAS, on July 9, 2013 the City provided Ecology a response to those comments; and
WHEREAS, on August 20,2015 Ecology approved the City's SMP as submitted; and
WHEREAS, on September 3, 2015 the SMP became effective; and
WHEREAS, Ecology is required to provide a 60-day appeal period on the final approval of the
City's SMP and did not receive any appeals; and
WHEREAS,the City Council desires to repeal the existing SMP to replace it with the updated SMP
as has been approved by Ecology; and
WHEREAS, concurrently with the repeal and replacement of the SMP, the City will propose a
separate resolution to repeal all prior resolutions that were passed as part of the SMP Update in order to
ensure there are no contradictory parts of the SMP.
Ordinance 15-024 Page 2 of 4
NOW, THEREFORE,the City Council of the City of Spokane Valley ordains as follows:
Section 1. Purpose. The purpose of this Ordinance is to repeal the City's existing SMP set
forth in chapter 21.50 and Appendix 21-H SVMC and adopt the revised SMP as approved by Ecology on
August 20,2015. The City is in the process of updating its Comprehensive Plan and the revised SMP will
be incorporated into the updated Comprehensive Plan at the time it is adopted.
Section 2. Findings and Conclusions. The City Council acknowledges that the Planning
Commission conducted appropriate investigation and study, held a public hearing on the revised SMP and
recommended approval of the revised SMP. The City Council has read and considered the Planning
Commission's findings. The City Council adopts the foregoing recitals as findings for this Ordinance,
which are incorporated by reference as if set forth in full, and also makes the following conclusions:
Conclusions:
A. The Council finds compliance with SVMC 17.80.150(F)for the SMP. The SMP is consistent
with the goals and policies of the Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan,and will promote the public
health, safety,welfare, and protection of the environment.
B. The Council finds the following public notices were given to offer the public participation
opportunities consistent with the adopted City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program Public
Involvement Plan:
1. Appointment of a citizen based Shoreline Advisory Group which met twice a
month over a six-month period,to assist in the preparation of the draft Goals and
Policies;
2. Appointment of a Technical Advisory Group consisting of representatives from a
wide variety of resource agencies and interest groups;
3. Numerous public meetings and public hearings before the Planning Commission;
4. Numerous postings of public notices, draft SMPs and technical documents,
meeting notices on the City website;
5. Emailing from City staff to numerous interested persons and agencies;
6. Individual notification of the August 28, 2009 and October 23, 2009 public
meetings to notify potentially-impacted shoreline landowners of the public
meetings, and individual mailings of the Shoreline Inventory Activities to
potentially-impacted shoreline landowners;
7. Display advertisements published on five separate dates in the Spokesman Review
and/or Spokane Valley Herald newspaper inviting persons to open house meetings
throughout the draft development process; and
8. Notices posted on the City's website of all public meetings regarding the Draft
SMP planning effort.
C. The policies of the SMP are valid and applicable and will further the public health and welfare.
D. The SMP will provide the citizens of the City with a program that is predictable and specific to
their community.
E. The process employed by the City in preparing and reviewing the SMP is in compliance with
chapter 90.58 RCW, chapter 173-26 WAC, Washington State Shoreline Management Planning
Guidelines,and the adopted City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program Public Involvement
Plan.
F. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended that the Draft SMP be adopted as
presented.
Ordinance 15-024 Page 3 of 4
G. The City Council adopted the revised SMP pursuant to Ordinance No. 14-020 on December 9,
2014, to conclude that the SMP Update included the necessary master program elements required
pursuant to WAC 173-26-191(b), the master program basic requirements set forth in WAC 173-
26-191(2),and the general master program provisions set forth in WAC 173-26-221,and submitted
the City's completed and updated SMP to Ecology for its approval.
H. Ecology determined that the amendments comprehensively updating the SMP are consistent
with SMA policy, the applicable guidelines and implementing rules, and therefore approved the
City's comprehensive SMP Update as submitted on August 20, 2015.
Section 3. Adoption of Shoreline Master Program. The City's existing SMP, set forth in
chapter 21.50 and Appendix 21-H SVMC, is hereby repealed and replaced with the revised Spokane Valley
SMP as approved by Ecology on August 20, 2015, as set forth in Exhibit 1, attached hereto. Chapter 4 of
the revised SMP (Shoreline Regulations)shall be codified as chapter 21.50 SVMC.
Section 4. Severability. If any section, sentence,clause of phrase of this Ordinance shall be
held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or
unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of any other section,sentence,clause,or
phrase of this Ordinance.
Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect five days after
publication of this Ordinance or a summary thereof in the official newspaper of the City of Spokane Valley
as provided by law.
Passed by the City Council this 15`'day of December 2015.
s
Dean Grafos, Mayor/
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Christine Bainbridge, City Clerk
Approved as to Form:
Office the Ci • oiney
Date of Publication: / 2 7,216--, dd/.5Effective Date: r' —<
Ordinance 15-024 Page 4 of 4
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City of Spokane Valley
Shoreline Master Program
Approved by City Council Ordinance 15-024
December 15, 2015
.
Approved by Washington St ate Department of Ecology
September 3, 2015
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
The Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program was prepared with the assistance of URS Corporation and Van
Ness Feldman.The City would like to thank the Spokane Valley Planning Commission; Spokane Valley City
Council;John Hohman, Community and Economic Development Director; Lori Barlow, Senior Planner; and all
other citizen and group participants for their assistance in the completion of this project.
Shoreline Advisory Group
Bill Abrahamse, Trout Unlimited Robin Bekkedahl, Avista Corporation
John Bowditch, N. Greenacres Neighborhood Andy Dunau, Spokane River Forum
Rick Eichstaedt, Spokane Riverkeeper Merl Gorton, Riverwalk Homeowners
Chris Guidotti, Washington State Parks Audra Sims, Washington State Parks
Kat Hall, Lands Council Anna Vamvakias, Lands Council
Bob Horrocks, Spokane Canoe & Kayak Judy Kaufman, Spokane Fly Fishers
Kitty Klitzke, Futurewise Bud Leber, Kaiser Aluminum
Deanne Logan, Centennial Properties Jana McDonald, Central Pre-Mix
Sharon McHugo, Shelley Lake Homeowners Doug Pineo, Consultant
Jamie Short, Department of Ecology Mike Stone, COSV Parks & Rec
Kaye Turner, Friends of the Centennial Trail Joel White, Spokane Home Builder's Association
Planning Commission
Joseph Stoy, Chairman Kevin Anderson Timothy Kelley
Michael Phillips Heather Graham Susan Scott
Sam Wood
City Council
Dean Grafos, Mayor Arne Woodard, Deputy Mayor Rod Higgins
Bill Bates Ben Wick Chuck Hafner
Ed Pace
Staff
Lori Barlow Martin Palaniuk Micki Harnois
Gloria Mantz Cary Driskell Erik Lamb
Scott Kuhta* Susan Bullock Mary Swank
Consultants
John Patrouch , URS Corp Noah Herrlocher, URS Corp Tadas Kisielius, Van Ness Feldman
Questions regarding this Master Program should be directed to:
City of Spokane Valley
11707 East Sprague Ave, Suite 106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
(509) 921-1000
*former employee
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 1 — Introduction
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Shoreline Jurisdiction
1.2 Background
1.3 Documents Supporting the Shoreline Master Program Update
1.4 Shorelines as an Element of the Comprehensive Plan
Chapter 2 - Shoreline Master Program Goals and Policies
2.0 Introduction
2.1 General Goals and Policies
2.2 Historical, Cultural, Scientific & Educational Element
2.3 Utilities Element
2.4 Circulation Element
2.5 Economic Development Element
2.6 Conservation
2.7 Restoration
2.8 Critical Areas Element
2.9 Flood Hazard Reduction Element
2.10 Public Access Element
2.11 Recreation Element
2.12 Shoreline Use Element
Chapter 3 - Shoreline Environment Designations
3.0 Introduction
3.1 Environment Designations
3.1.1 Urban Conservancy— High Quality Environment (UC-HQ)
3.1.2 Urban Conservancy Environment (UC)
3.1.3 Shoreline Residential —Waterfront Environment (SR-W)
3.1.4 Shoreline Residential — Upland Environment (SR-U)
3.1.5 Aquatic Environment (AQ)
3.2 Historical City of Spokane Valley Environmental Designations
Map 3.1 Environment Designations Map
Chapter 4 —Shoreline Regulations
4.0 Shoreline Permits, Procedures, and Administration
21.50.010 Applicability, Shoreline Permits, and Exemptions
21.50.020 Applicability
21.50.030 Administrative Authority and Responsibility
21.50.040 Types of Shoreline Permits
21.50.050 Development Authorization Review Procedure
21.50.060 Authorization Decisions - Basis for Action
21.50.070 Conditions of Approval
21.50.080 Prohibited Uses
21.50.090 Minor Activities Allowed Without a Permit or Letter of Exemption
21.50.100 Shoreline Substantial Development Permit
21.50.110 Exemptions from a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit
21.50.120 Letters of Exemption
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Table of Contents
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
21.50.130 Shoreline Conditional Use Permit
21.50.140 Shoreline Variance
21.50.150 Nonconforming Development
21.50.160 Minor Revisions to Approved Uses or Developments
21.50.170 Enforcement Responsibilities Generally
4.1 Shoreline Regulations
21.50.180 General Provisions
21.50.190 Shoreline Uses Table
21.50.200 Shoreline Modification Activities Table
21.50.210 No Net Loss and Mitigation Sequencing
21.50.220 Height Limit Standards
21.50.230 Shoreline Buffers and Building Setbacks
21.50.240 Flood Hazard Reduction
21.50.250 Public Access
21.50.260 Shoreline Vegetation Conservation
21.50.270 Water Quality, Stormwater, and Non-Point Pollution
21.50.280 Archaeological and Historic Resources
21.50.290 Gravel Pits
21.50.300 Specific Shoreline Use Regulations
21.50.310 Boating Facilities
21.50.320 Commercial Use
21.50.330 Industrial Use
21.50.340 In-Stream Structures
21.50.350 Parking Facilities
21.50.360 Recreational Development and Use
21.50.370 Residential Development and Use
21.50.380 Signs and Outdoor Lighting
21.50.390 Transportation Facilities
21.50.400 Public Facilities and Utilities
21.50.410 General Regulations for Specific Shoreline Modifications
21.50.420 Shoreline/Slope Stabilization
21.50.430 Piers and Docks
21.50.440 Dredging and Fill
21.50.450 Shoreline Habitat and Natural Systems Enhancement Projects
4.2 Critical Areas Regulations
21.50.460 General - Shoreline Critical Areas Regulations - Applicability
21.50.470 Maps and Inventories
21.50.480 Exemptions from Critical Area Review and Reporting
Requirements
21.50.490 Critical Area Review
21.50.500 Critical Area Report Requirements for All Critical Areas
21.50.510 Mitigation
21.50.520 Wetlands - Shoreline Critical Area Regulation
21.50.530 Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas - Shoreline Critical Area
Regulations
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
21.50.540 Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas - Shoreline Critical
Area Regulations
21.50.550 Geologically Hazardous Areas - Shoreline Critical Area
Regulations
21.50.560 Frequently Flooded Areas - Shoreline Critical Area Regulations
Appendices
Appendix A-1 Shoreline Master Program Definitions
Appendix A-2 — Map 4-1 Shoreline Buffers Map
Supporting Documents
SD-1 Public Involvement Plan
SD-2 Shoreline Inventory
SD-3 Shoreline Public Access
SD-4. Restoration Plan
SD-5 Cumulative Impacts Analysis
SD-6. No Net Loss Report
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Table of Contents
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
CHAPTER I — INTRODUCTION
1.0 Introduction
The City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program intends to implement the requirements of
the Washington State Shoreline Management Act (SMA) (Revised Code of Washington (RCW)
90.58). The SMA was passed by the State Legislature in 1971 and adopted by the public in a
referendum. It was created in response to a growing concern among residents of the state that
serious and permanent damage was being done to shorelines by unplanned and uncoordinated
development. The goal of the SMA was "to prevent the inherent harm in an uncoordinated and
piecemeal development of the state's shorelines." While protecting shoreline resources by
regulating development, the SMA is also intended to provide for appropriate shoreline use by
encouraging land uses that enhance and conserve shoreline functions and values.
The SMA has three broad policies:
1. Encourage water-dependent and water-oriented uses: "uses shall be preferred which
are consistent with control of pollution and prevention of damage to the natural
environment, or are unique to or dependent upon use of the states' shorelines...."
2. Promote public access: "the public's opportunity to enjoy the physical and aesthetic
qualities of natural shorelines of the state shall be preserved to the greatest extent
feasible consistent with the overall best interest of the state and the people generally."
3. Protect shoreline natural resources, including "...the land and its vegetation and wildlife,
and the water of the state and their aquatic life...."
1.1 Shoreline Jurisdiction
The City of Spokane Valley (City) has two water bodies regulated under the SMA and the City's
Shoreline Master Program (SMP): The Spokane River, designated as a "Shoreline of Statewide
Significance", and Shelley Lake, designated as a "Shoreline of the State".
Under the SMA, the shoreline jurisdiction includes areas that are 200 feet landward from the
ordinary high water mark (OHWM) and the waters within the City designated as Shorelines of
Statewide Significance or Shorelines of the State as well as floodways and contiguous
floodplain areas, and any associated wetlands. (RCW 90.58.030).
1.2 Background
The City was incorporated in 2003. At that time, the City adopted the Spokane County SMP as
the interim SMP to comply with the requirements of the SMA. The SMP for Spokane County
was developed by the Department of Ecology (Ecology) at the option of the county government,
and remained essentially unchanged. In 2003, the State Legislature adopted guidelines
requiring all cities and counties to update their SMP.
The City has conducted a comprehensive SMP update funded in part by a grant from Ecology.
The guidelines (WAC 173-26) establish goals and policies that provide a framework for
development standards and use regulations in the shoreline. The update has been prepared
consistent with the SMA and its implementing guidelines, and provides goals, policies,
development regulations, and permitting procedures for areas within the City's shoreline
jurisdiction. The primary responsibility for administering the SMA is assigned to local
governments through the local SMPs. While the SMP is based on state guidelines, it reflects
the specific conditions and needs of the Spokane Valley community.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Chapter 1 - Introduction
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
1.3 Documents Supporting the Shoreline Master Program Update
Consistent with state guidelines (WAC 173-26-201, Comprehensive Process to Prepare or
Amend Shoreline Master Programs), a Shoreline Inventory and Characterization Report (ICR)
was prepared by URS Corp in 2009. The ICR documented the existing shoreline conditions and
provided a basis for updating the City's SMP goals, policies, and regulations. The
characterization identifies existing conditions, evaluates existing functions and values of
shoreline resources, and explores opportunities for conservation and restoration of ecological
functions.
Under the Ecology grant to the City, several plans and technical reports were prepared and
provide rationale for elements of the SMP. These include the following:
1. Shoreline Public Access Plan;
2. Shoreline Restoration Plan;
3. Cumulative Impacts Analysis; and
4. No Net Loss Report.
State guidelines WAC 173-26-221(4)( c ) allow a jurisdiction to develop SMP provisions for an
effective public access system rather than addressing public access on a site-by-site basis. The
City opted to develop a separate Public Access Plan to address the public access needs. The
Public Access Plan evaluates the existing public accesses to the Spokane River, describes
existing recreational uses, and provides recommendations to improve both public access and
public recreational uses within the shoreline jurisdiction.
State guidelines also require that local governments develop SMP policies that promote
"restoration" of damaged shoreline ecological functions and develop a "real and meaningful"
strategy to implement restoration objectives. The Restoration Plan identifies restoration
opportunities (both programmatic and site-specific), establishes goals and policies, promotes
working cooperatively with other regional entities, and supports restoration through other
regulatory and non-regulatory programs.
Lastly, WAC 173-26-201 requires that SMP policies and regulations address the cumulative
impacts on shoreline ecological functions that would result from future shoreline development
and uses. The Cumulative Impacts Analysis and No Net Loss Report address the general
obligation to assure no net loss of shoreline ecological function, and examine how the proposed
policies and regulations avoid cumulative impacts.
1.4 Shorelines as an Element of the Comprehensive Plan
The provisions of this program implement the requirements of the SMA. The City's SMP is
integrated with the City's land use regulation system. Consistent with RCW 36.70A.480, the
goals and policies contained in this SMP shall be considered an element of the City's
Comprehensive Plan required by the Growth Management Act (GMA). All other portions of this
SMP, including the use regulations, are considered a part of the City's development regulations
required by the GMA, and be part of the Spokane Valley Municipal Code. The Inventory and
Characterization Report, Restoration Plan, Cumulative Impacts Analysis, No Net Loss Report,
and Public Participation Plan are supporting documents, and are not adopted as part of this
SMP or the City's Comprehensive Plan.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Chapter 1 - Introduction
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
Chapter 2 - Goals and Policies
2.0 Introduction
Per WAC 173-26-186(3), all relevant policy goals must be addressed in the planning policies of
master programs. This section contains shoreline goals and policies. Goals express the
ultimate aim of the City of Spokane Valley (City) and citizens along their shorelines. A policy
identifies a measurable step that moves toward achieving a long-term goal. Goals and policies
provide a framework upon which the more detailed Shoreline Master Program (SMP) shoreline
use environments, policies, regulations, and administrative procedures are based in subsequent
chapters.
WAC 173-26-186(5) states:
"The policy goals of the act, implemented by the planning policies of master
programs, may not be achievable by development regulation alone. Planning
policies should be pursued through the regulation of development of private
property only to an extent that is consistent with all relevant constitutional and
other legal limitations (where applicable, statutory limitations such as those
contained in chapter 82.02 RCW and RCW 43.21C.060) on the regulation of
private property. Local government should use a process designed to assure
that proposed regulatory or administrative actions do not unconstitutionally
infringe upon private property rights. A process established for this purpose,
related to the constitutional takings limitation, is set forth in a publication entitled,
'State of Washington, Attorney General's Recommended Process for Evaluation
of Proposed Regulatory or Administrative Actions to Avoid Unconstitutional
Takings of Private Property,' first published in February 1992. The attorney
general is required to review and update this process on at least an annual basis
to maintain consistency with changes in case law by RCW 36.70A.370."
2.1 General Goals and Policies
Goal SMP 1: Enhance the City's shorelines by establishing and implementing goals,
policies, and regulations which promote a mixture of reasonable and appropriate
shoreline uses that improve the City's character, foster its historic and cultural identity,
and conserve environmental resources.
Policies
SMP 1.1 Coordinated Planning
Coordinate shoreline planning between the City of Spokane Valley, agencies with jurisdiction,
adjoining jurisdictions, the State of Washington, and the State of Idaho into which the river basin
extends, and consider the plans of non-government organizations (NGO's) and/or special
interest groups.
SMP 1.2 Consistency with Other Plans and Programs
Ensure that the City of Spokane Valley SMP is consistent with the Washington State Shoreline
Management Act and Growth Management Act, and to the extent practical the basic concepts,
goals, and policies of the following documents: Land use plan of the City of Spokane Valley
Comprehensive Plan development regulations, the City of Spokane Valley Critical Areas
Ordinances, and the Shoreline Master Programs of adjacent jurisdictions.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Chapter 2- Goals and Policies
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
SMP 1.3 No Net Loss of Ecological Functions
Ensure that all shoreline uses and development are regulated in a manner that assures no net
loss of shoreline ecological functions.
SMP 1.4 Public Interest and Property Rights
Balance the interests of the community in attaining the goals of the SMP in a manner consistent
with all relevant constitutional and other legal limitations on the regulation of private property.
SMP 1.5 Shoreline Designated Environments
Designate shoreline environments for the City of Spokane Valley shorelines that are consistent
with the Comprehensive Plan land uses, shoreline management practices, and shoreline
inventory within each designated area.
SMP 1.6 Use Preferences for All Shorelines
Give preference to those shoreline activities which fulfill long range Comprehensive Plan goals
and the Shoreline Management Act policy priorities, as listed and discussed below:
It is the policy of the City to provide for the management of its shorelines by planning for and
fostering all reasonable and appropriate uses. Policies are designed to ensure the development
of the City's shorelines in a manner which will promote and enhance the public interest. These
policies will protect against adverse effects to the public health, the land, its vegetation and
aquatic life and wildlife, and the waters of the Spokane River, Shelly Lake, and the Sullivan
Road and Park Road Gravel Pits and their aquatic life.
SMP 1.7 Use Preferences for Shorelines of State-Wide Significance
The State Legislature has declared that the interest and benefit of all of the people shall be
paramount in the management of shorelines of state-wide significance, and therefore
preference shall be given to uses in the following order of preference which:
1. Recognize and protect statewide interest over local interest
2. Preserve the natural character of the shoreline
3. Allow uses that result in long-term over short-term benefits
4. Protect the resources and ecology of shorelines
5. Increase public access to publicly-owned areas of shorelines
6. Increase recreational opportunities for the public on the shorelines.
SMP 1.8 Priority Uses and Shoreline Alterations
Uses shall be preferred which are consistent with control of pollution and prevention of damage
to the natural environment, or are unique to or dependent upon use of the state's shoreline.
Alterations of the natural condition of the Shorelines of the State, in those limited instances
when authorized, shall be given priority for single-family residences and their appurtenant
structures, shoreline recreational uses, and other improvements facilitating public access,
industrial and commercial developments which are particularly dependent on their location on or
use of the shorelines, and other development.
2.2 Historical, Cultural, Scientific & Educational Element
Goal SMP 2: Protect the historical, cultural, scientific, or educational sites within the
shoreline that reflect our community's unique heritage and create or contribute to our
collective sense of place.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Chapter 2- Goals and Policies
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
Policies
SMP 2.1 Sites and Structures
Identify, preserve, and manage shoreline sites and structures having historical, cultural,
scientific or educational value, and develop regulations that avoid, minimize, or mitigate any
adverse impacts to these resources.
SMP 2.2 Sites and Building Acquisition
Public acquisition through gifts, bequests, grants, or donations of buildings or sites having
cultural, scientific, educational, or historical value should be encouraged.
SMP 2.3 Cooperation and Consultation
Ensure constant cooperation and consultation with affected agencies and tribes for projects that
could potentially impact cultural and historical resources.
SMP 2.4 Inventory of Sites
Work with tribal, state, federal, and local governments as appropriate to maintain an inventory of
all known significant local historical, cultural, and archaeological sites in observance of
applicable state and federal laws protecting such information from public disclosure.
SMP 2.5 Site Inspection and Evaluation
Ensure early and continuous site inspection, consultation, or evaluation by a professional
archaeologist in coordination with affected tribes for all permits issued in areas documented to
contain archaeological resources.
2.3 Utilities Element
Goal SMP 3: Maintain and provide adequate utility services within the shoreline
environment while preserving and enhancing the natural environment and ecology of the
shoreline.
Policies
SMP 3.1 Location
Locate new public facilities and utilities, including, but not limited to, utility production,
processing, distribution, and transmission facilities outside of the shoreline jurisdiction whenever
feasible.
SMP 3.2 Place Underground
Require new utilities and facilities that must be located within the shoreline to be built
underground, if feasible, and utilize low impact, low profile design and construction methods to
the maximum extent possible. Undergrounding shall not be required if it results in a net loss of
shoreline ecological functions.
SMP 3.3 Existing Rights-of-Way
Require new utilities and facilities to be located in existing rights-of-way whenever possible.
SMP 3.4 Maintenance and Operation Design
When existing utilities, facilities, and rights-of-way are located within shoreline jurisdiction and
require maintenance or other improvements, the maintenance/improvement should be designed
and implemented to minimize additional impacts on the shoreline environment and encouraged
to correct past impacts caused by the utility. Vegetation Management Plans should be
recognized as maintenance activities.
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SMP 3.5 Preference to Existing Facilities and Utilities
Give preference to established utility corridors and rights-of-way for upgrades, maintenance,
and reconstruction of existing utilities and facilities, unless a location with less potential to
impact the shoreline environment is available.
SMP 3.6 Stormwater Facilities
Stormwater utilities will be designed and located as to minimize environmental impacts within
the shoreline jurisdiction. If located within the shoreline jurisdiction, they shall use best
management practices (e.g. biofiltration measures) and landscaping with native vegetation. All
stormwater facilities must protect water quality, manage runoff, and address erosion control and
sedimentation.
2.4 Circulation Element
Goal SMP 4: Provide a safe, convenient, and multimodal circulation system which will
minimize negative impacts to the shoreline environment.
Policies
SMP 4.1 Transportation Access
Ensure that a system of arterials, scenic drives, pathways, public transit routes, and bikeways
adjacent to and within the shoreline areas provide appropriate access to the Spokane River in a
way that meets the needs and desires of the community as reflected in the Comprehensive
Plan, while also assuring no net loss of ecological function of the shorelines.
SMP 4.2 Location of New Streets or Street Expansions
Locate new streets or street expansions outside of the shoreline jurisdiction, unless no other
options are available or feasible. In all cases, streets should be on the landward side of
development.
SMP 4.3 Consolidation of Corridors
Encourage the consolidation of transportation and utility corridors crossing the shoreline
environment in order to minimize the number of crossings, and encourage the collocation of
utilities on bridges or in transportation rights-of-way whenever possible by considering the
needs during the design of bridge and corridor upgrades.
SMP 4.4 Transportation Facilities
Plan, locate, and design proposed transportation facilities where routes will have the least
possible adverse effect on shoreline ecological functions, will not result in a net loss of shoreline
ecological functions, or adversely impact existing or planned water dependent uses.
SMP 4.5 Stormwater Treatment
All development within the shoreline jurisdiction area shall provide stormwater treatment for all
new and redeveloped pollution-generating impervious surfaces.
SMP 4.6 Parking Facilities for Public Access
Parking facilities for public access to the shoreline and water should be kept as far from the
shorelines as feasible.
SMP 4.7 Parking Facilities Not a Primary Use
Parking facilities should only be allowed as necessary to support permitted shoreline uses, and
not as a primary use, and must be located outside of the shoreline jurisdiction area if other
options are available and feasible.
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SMP 4.8 Impacts of Parking Facilities
Minimize the environmental and visual impacts of parking facilities where allowed.
SMP 4.9 Retain Unused Public Rights-of-Way for Visual and Physical Access
Retain unused public rights-of-way within the shoreline area to provide visual and physical
access to the shoreline unless:
• The street vacation enables the City to acquire the property for beach or water
access purposes; boat moorage or launching sites; park, public view, recreation,
or educational purposes; or other public uses or the City declares that the street
or alley is not presently being used and is not suitable for the above purposes; or
• The street vacation enables the City to implement a plan that provides
comparable or improved public access to the same shoreline area to which the
streets or alleys sought to be vacated, if the properties included in the plan had
not been vacated.
SMP 4.10 Improve Non-Motorized Access to Shoreline
Improve non-motorized access to the shoreline by developing where appropriate pathways,
trails, and bikeways along and adjacent to the shoreline. Connectivity between non-motorized
access points is encouraged.
SMP 4.11 Recognition of Centennial Trail
Recognize the importance and uniqueness of the Spokane River Centennial Trail to the City of
Spokane Valley, the region, and the state. Future trail development on private property
including trail extensions, new access points, whether public or private, shall be designed to
have the least adverse impact. Future trail development on public property shall meet the same
objective, but should also incorporate enhancement and restoration measures where
appropriate.
SMP 4.12 New Rail Lines
Allow new rail lines and the expansion of existing rail corridors within the shoreline jurisdiction
only for the purpose of connecting to existing rail lines or rights-of-way. Construct new rail lines
within an existing rail corridor where possible.
SMP 4.13 Rail Lines Affecting Public Access
Construct, where feasible, all new rail lines so that they do not compromise the public's ability to
access the shoreline safely.
2.5 Economic Development Element
Goal SMP 5: Encourage and support water-dependent, water-oriented, and water-related
economic activities within the shorelands of the City of Spokane Valley that will be an
asset to the economy of the area and that will protect and maintain the ecological
functions of the shoreline environment.
Policies
SMP 5.1 Location of Economic Development
Give preference to economic development within the shoreline jurisdiction that is particularly
dependent on their location on or use of the shoreline. Encourage new development to locate in
areas that have intensive prior use and can be upgraded or redeveloped. Encourage new
economic development to cluster into areas of the shoreline whose current use is compatible.
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SMP 5.2 Design of Economic Development
Development should be designed to minimize the impacts to the shoreline aesthetic through
architectural, landscape, and other design features. Encourage design that seeks to restore
damaged or compromised shoreline through incentives.
SMP 5.3 Priorities for Economic Development
Give preference to water-oriented economic development, while limiting the location of non-
water oriented elements of the development outside of shoreline jurisdiction.
SMP 5.4 Provisions for Physical and Visual Availability to Water
When public access is required under this SMP, historic areas, overlook points, structures, and
points of public access to the waterfront should be incorporated in economic development site
planning.
SMP 5.5 Encourage Regional Tourism
Strengthen regional tourism by expanding and developing neighborhood and regional linkages
and improvements that use the shoreline areas.
SMP 5.6 Consistency with Comprehensive Plan and Development Regulations
Proposed economic development in the shoreline should be consistent with the City of Spokane
Valley Comprehensive Plan and development regulations. Upland uses on adjacent lands
outside of immediate SMA jurisdiction (in accordance with RCW 90.58.340) should protect the
preferred shoreline uses from being impacted by incompatible uses.
SMP 5.7 Provisions for Shoreline Protection
Require that development provide adequate provisions for the protection of water quality,
erosion control, landscaping, aesthetic characteristics, stormwater systems, fish and wildlife
habitat, views, archaeological sites, and normal public use of the water.
SMP 5.8 Economic Assets
Promote the Centennial Trail and Spokane River as a community economic asset.
SMP 5.9 Promote Recreational Uses
Promote recreational uses of the shorelines to contribute to the economic attractiveness of the
city. Seek opportunities to partner with public and private property owners to increase public
recreational opportunities in the shoreline.
SMP 5.10 Water-Enjoyment Areas
Promote the identification and establishment of water-enjoyment areas, such as parks, view
points, beaches, and pathways as attractions.
SMP 5.11 Business and Industry Operations
Encourage shoreline industries and businesses to maintain a well-kept appearance and to
operate in a manner that will not cause negative aesthetic impacts to the community.
SMP 5.12 Redevelopment
Encourage and provide incentives for redevelopment of existing sites that includes points of
public access, areas designed for public enjoyment, and improve fish and wildlife habitat.
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SMP 5.13 Building Orientation
New public shoreline uses and developments should be planned and designed to attract the
public to the waterfront; new private shoreline uses and development should be planned and
designed to attract the public to the waterfront with exceptions as allowed by WAC 173-26-
221(4)(d).
SMP 5.14 Design Feature Incentives
Incentives should be created to encourage developers to incorporate design features into the
waterside of the building.
SMP 5.15 Mining Industry
Support the existing aggregate mining industry as a significant component of the area economy.
2.6 Conservation Element
Goal SMP 6: Preserve for the future those natural resources, including the unique,
fragile, and scenic qualities of the shoreline, which cannot be replaced. Assure no net
loss of ecological functions of the shoreline.
Policies
SMP 6.1 Protect Vegetative Buffers and Setbacks
Protect existing vegetation and shoreline ecological function by designating buffers and
setbacks that are supported by the 2010 Shoreline Inventory and allow for the use of innovative
techniques and strategies while assuring no net loss of ecological functions.
SMP 6.2 Acquisition of Unique Shoreline Areas
Acquire and maintain, through conservation futures, donations, grants, general funds, or other
sources, shoreline areas containing natural elements especially worthy of preservation or
especially attractive to the public, such as beaches, forest covers, trees, wildlife populations,
vistas, and other scenic features.
SMP 6.3 Baselines for Functions and Values
Utilize 2010 Shoreline Inventory to establish baselines for the functions and values of shoreline.
Property owners may provide additional information to supplement the inventory in preparation
of a development proposal.
SMP 6.4 Preserve Ecological Connectivity
Assure no net loss of ecological viability and connectivity through use of habitat islands and
corridors within the shoreline area.
SMP 6.5 Incentives for Retention of Critical Areas and Open Space
Retain existing open space and environmentally sensitive areas on private property through the
use of incentives.
SMP 6.6 Mitigation of Negative Impacts
Development shall avoid, and if avoidance is not possible mitigate, negative impacts to steep
banks, surface and ground water quality, ecological functions, fish and wildlife habitat,
vegetative cover, and erosion of the soil.
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SMP 6.7 Cumulative Impacts
Regulations shall assure that the commonly occurring and foreseeable cumulative impacts of
development do not cause a net loss of ecological functions of the shoreline.
2.7 Restoration Element
Goal SMP 7: Restore habitat and the natural systems to improve shoreline ecological
functions.
Policies
SMP 7.1 Restoration Plan
Develop a Restoration Plan that will identify degraded areas and provide a framework for
restoration efforts to improve the existing ecological function and provide a mechanism for
mitigation of unavoidable and unforeseeable future development.
SMP 7.2 City Stewardship
Ensure that the City of Spokane Valley assumes a primary stewardship role through restoration
efforts on City-owned and controlled land. Manage the City's programs, services, and
operational infrastructure in a manner that assures no net loss of ecological or shoreline
functions.
SMP 7.3 Incentives for Restoration and Enhancement Projects
Provide incentives for projects that include restoration and enhancement components by
implementing tools which may include, but are not limited to, modifying the shoreline setback
area that would apply to the restored areas or allowing a greater range of uses or flexible
development standards (e.g., setbacks) on properties providing restoration and/or enhancement
that may result in a net gain of ecological function.
SMP 7.4 Gravel Pit Restoration Plans
Assist the gravel pits in the development and implementation of restoration plans for pits that
are consistent with the SMP and the Department of Natural Resources.
SMP 7.5 Cooperative Restoration Programs
Encourage cooperative restoration programs between local, state, and federal public agencies,
tribes, non-profit organizations, and landowners.
2.8 Critical Areas Element
Goal SMP 8: Assure no net loss of ecological functions and ecosystem-wide processes
within wetlands, critical aquifer recharge areas, fish and wildlife habitat, conservation
areas, geologically hazardous areas, and frequently flooded areas. Assure no net loss of
ecological function within these critical areas.
Policies
SMP 8.1 Consistency with Critical Areas Goals and Policies
To the extent practicable and consistent with RCW 36.70A.480 ensure the critical area goals
and policies for the SMP are consistent with the critical areas goals and policies contained in the
Comprehensive Plan.
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SMP 8.2 No Net Loss of Ecological Function
Ensure regulatory protection measures developed for the shoreline area assure no net loss of
shoreline ecological functions necessary to sustain shoreline natural resources as defined by
Washington State Department of Ecology guidelines adopted pursuant to RCW 90.58.060.
SMP 8.3 Preserve and Protect Critical Areas Defined as Wetlands Through Protective
Measures
Rate wetlands based on the quality of the wetland and the ecological function they serve.
Develop protective measures tailored to the wetland quality and function and that consider the
characteristics and setting of the buffer and the impacts on adjacent land use.
SMP 8.4 Preserve and Protect Critical Areas Defined as Wetlands Through Mitigation
Measures
Base wetland mitigation on the wetland rating and require mitigation sequencing. Only allow
compensatory mitigation after mitigation sequencing has been applied and avoidance has been
deemed infeasible.
SMP 8.5 Protect People and Property from Risk Associated with Critical Areas Defined as
Geologically Hazardous Areas
Limit development that would cause foreseeable risk from geological conditions to people or
property. Do not allow development that will require structural shoreline stabilization except in
the limited cases where it is necessary to protect an allowed use and no alternative location is
available. Allow structural shoreline stabilization to protect existing structures only when
relocation or reconstruction is infeasible. Do not allow structural shoreline stabilization that will
result in a net loss of ecological function.
SMP 8.6 Preserve and Protect Critical Areas Defined as Fish and Wildlife Habitat
Conservation Areas
Develop measures that assure no net loss of ecological functions of river, lake, and stream
corridors associated with fish and wildlife habitat. Integrate the protection of fish and wildlife
habitat with flood hazard reduction and other fish and wildlife management provisions. Develop
measures that authorize and facilitate habitat restoration projects.
SMP 8.7 Preserve and Protect Critical Areas Defined as Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas
Protect the hydrologic connections between water bodies, water courses, and associated
wetlands. Integrate the protection of critical aquifer recharge areas with jurisdictional and non-
jurisdictional aquifer protection measures such as watershed management plans, wellhead
protection plans, Department of Natural Resources forest practices, and others as appropriate.
SMP 8.8 Protect People and Property from Risk Associated with Critical Areas Defined as
Frequently Flooded Areas
Limit development that would cause foreseeable risk to people and property from frequent
flooding. Ensure frequently flooded areas are fully addressed in the goals and policies of the
Flood Hazard Reduction element of this plan.
2.9 Flood Hazard Reduction Element
Goal SMP 9: Prevent and reduce flood damage in shoreline areas to protect ecological
functions, shoreline habitat, lives, and public and private property.
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Policies
SMP 9.1 Development Within the Shoreline
Prohibit development within the shorelines that would intensify flood hazards or result in
cumulative significant adverse effects to other properties, as regulated by SVMC 21.30
Floodplain Regulations.
SMP 9.2 Coordination Among Agencies
Coordinate flood hazard reduction planning among the applicable agencies.
SMP 9.3 Structural Flood Hazard Reduction
Allow new structural flood hazard reduction measures only:
• Where scientific and engineering analysis has demonstrated it to be necessary,
and when non-structural methods are infeasible and mitigation is accomplished;
• Landward of associated wetlands and buffer areas except where no alternative
exists, as documented in an engineering analysis; and
• When consistent with current best management practices, using natural native
materials whenever feasible.
Note: An example of a structural flood hazard reduction measure is a structure placed by
humans within a stream or river waterward of the OHWM such as, but not limited to, a diversion
or modification of water flow to control flooding.
SMP 9.4 Removal of Gravel
Allow removal of gravel for flood control only if biological and geomorphological study
demonstrates that extraction has a long-term benefit to flood hazard reduction, does not result
in a net loss of ecological functions, and is part of a comprehensive flood management solution.
This does not apply to the permitted gravel mining operations underway at the time of SMP
adoption and approval.
SMP 9.5 Natural Vegetative Buffers
Maintain, protect, and restore natural vegetative buffers that are within the floodplain of the
Spokane River that function to reduce flood hazards.
SMP 9.6 Alternate Flood Control Measures
When evaluating alternate flood control measures consider the removal or relocation of
structures in floodplain areas.
2.10 Public Access Element
Goal SMP 10: Provide diverse, reasonable, and adequate public access to the Shorelines
of the State consistent with the natural shoreline character, private property rights,
public rights under the Public Trust Doctrine, and public safety while assuring no net
loss of ecological function.
Policies
SMP 10.1 Public Interest and Private Property
Promote and enhance the public interest with regard to rights to access waters held in public
trust by the state, while protecting private property rights and public safety.
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SMP 10.2 Shoreline Development by Public Entities
Require public entities, including local governments, state agencies, and public utility districts, to
include public access as part of each development project unless such access is incompatible
due to reasons of safety, security, or impact to the shoreline environment.
SMP 10.3 Shoreline Development
Require the dedication and improvement of public access in developments for water-enjoyment,
water-related and non-water dependent uses and for the subdivision of land into more than four
parcels, with exceptions as allowed by WAC 173-26-221(4)(d)(iii).
SMP 10.4 Public Access Maintenance and Improvements
When improving and maintaining existing public access points, minimize additional impacts on
the shoreline environment, and so long as it is consistent with constitutional protections, correct
past adverse environmental impacts caused by the public access.
SMP 10.5 Access Plan
Develop a formal Public Access Plan for an integrated shoreline area public access system that
identifies specific public needs and opportunities to provide public access that includes visual
and physical access. The plan should identify access opportunities and circulation for
pedestrians (including disabled persons), bicycles, and vehicles between shoreline access
points.
SMP 10.6 Design of Access Measures
Require that public access measures have a design appropriate to the site, adjacent property,
and general nature of the proposed development, while protecting and providing views. Public
access facilities should be designed with provisions for persons with disabilities, where
appropriate.
SMP 10.7 Motor Vehicle Access
Where access to the water's edge by motor vehicles is necessary, parking areas should be kept
as far from the shorelines as possible. Parking facilities shall implement a design appropriate
for the shoreline environment.
SMP 10.8 Access Design and Spacing
Access design and spacing of access points should be based on the biophysical capabilities of
the shoreline features and should protect fragile shoreline environment.
SMP 10.9 Impacts on Views
Minimize the impacts to existing views where the view is taken from the water or shoreline,
public property, or substantial numbers of residences. Water-dependent shoreline uses and
physical public access shall have priority over maintaining a view when a conflict between them
is irreconcilable provided that the water-dependent use is consistent with height restrictions in
RCW 90.58.320.
SMP 10.10 Permitted Uses
Regulate the design, construction, and operation of permitted uses in the Shorelines of the
State to minimize, insofar as practical, interference with the public's use of the water.
SMP 10.11 Incentives
Incentives such as density or bulk and dimensional bonuses should be considered if
development proposals include additional public access beyond that required by this SMP.
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SMP 10.12 Non-Motorized Access
Preference shall be given to the development or improvement of access for non-motorized
recreational activities.
2.11 Recreation Element
Goal SMP 11: Increase and preserve recreational opportunities on the shorelines of the
City of Spokane Valley
Policies
SMP 11.1 Preserve Shorelines for Public Recreational Use
Encourage appropriate public agencies to preserve shorelines for public use and to dedicate or
transfer appropriate shoreline land for recreational uses.
SMP 11.2 Encourage Passive and Active Recreation
Both passive and active recreation should be encouraged for appropriate shorelines.
SMP 11.3 Recreational Areas Protect Shoreline Ecological Functions
Recreational areas should be located, designed, developed, managed, and maintained in a
manner that protects shoreline ecological functions and processes.
SMP 11.4 Linkages to Recreation Areas
Hiking paths, bicycle paths, easements, and scenic drives should link shoreline parks,
recreation areas, and public access points.
SMP 11.5 Public Access Priority
Public use and access to the water should be a priority in recreational development.
SMP 11.6 Recreational Opportunities for All
Ensure that recreational planning takes into account the differences in use groups, physical
capabilities, and interests among the public in order to provide opportunities for safe and
convenient enjoyment of the shorelines.
SMP 11.7 Adequate Support Facilities
Create adequate support facilities of uses such as parking areas, maintenance buildings, and
restrooms to meet shoreline recreational demands.
SMP 11.8 Non- Motorized Recreation
Preference shall be given to non-motorized recreational activities.
2.12 Shoreline Use Element
Goal SMP 12: Consider the use and development of shorelines and adjacent land areas
for housing, business, industry, transportation, recreation, education, public buildings
and grounds, utilities, and other categories of public and private land uses in relation to
the natural environment and assuring no net loss of ecological function.
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General Use Policies
SMP 12.1 Shoreline Use Priorities
Give preference to water-dependent and single-family residential uses that are consistent with
preservation of shoreline ecological functions and processes. Secondary preference should be
given to water-related and water-enjoyment uses. Non-water oriented uses should be allowed
only when substantial public benefit is provided with respect to the goals of the SMA for public
access and ecological restoration.
SMP 12.2 Protect Shoreline Ecological Functions
Assure no net loss of ecological functions through the use of specific standards for setbacks,
buffers, density, and shoreline stabilization.
SMP 12.3 Public Access in Development
Ensure that shoreline development includes visual and physical public access to the shorelines,
while avoiding, minimizing, or mitigating negative impacts to the shoreline including views.
SMP 12.4 Preserving Fish and Wildlife Habitat
Encourage new development to contribute to the creation or preservation of open space and/or
fish and wildlife habitat along the shorelines through the use of tools such as conservation
futures, conservation easements, transferable development rights, and planned unit
developments.
SMP 12.5 Nonconforming Use and Development
Legally-established uses and developments that were erected and maintained in lawful
condition prior to the effective date of this SMP, shall be allowed to continue as legal
nonconforming uses provided that future development or redevelopment does not increase the
degree of nonconformity with this SMP. Expansion, or replacement of pre-existing residential
structures and their appurtenant structures, shall be allowed if it is consistent with the SMP,
including requirements for no net loss of shoreline ecological functions.
SMP 12.6 Mitigation Sequencing
Avoid and reduce significant ecological impacts from shoreline uses and modification activities
through mitigation sequencing.
Residential Use Policies
SMP 12.7 Subdivided Lots
Require new subdivided lots to be designed, configured, and developed to:
• Prevent the net loss of ecological functions at full build out;
• Prevent the need for new shoreline stabilization or flood hazard reduction
measures; and
• Be consistent with the applicable environment designations and standards.
SMP 12.8 Over-Water Residences
Prohibit new over-water residences and floating homes.
Commercial Use Policies
SMP 12.9 Priorities for Commercial Use
Give preference to commercial uses in the following order:
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• First priority is given to water-dependent commercial uses.
• Second priority is given to water-related and water-enjoyment commercial uses.
SMP 12.10 Non-Water Oriented Commercial Uses
Prohibit new non-water oriented commercial uses unless they are part of a mixed-use project,
the use provides a significant public benefit (such as public access and ecological restoration),
or if the site is physically separated from the shoreline by another property.
SMP 12.11 Non-Water Dependent Commercial Uses
Prohibit non-water dependent commercial uses over the water.
SMP 12.12 Mitigation of Shoreline Impacts
Public access and ecological restoration collectively should be considered as potential
mitigation of impacts to shoreline resources and values for all water-related or water-dependent
commercial development unless such improvements are demonstrated to be infeasible or
inappropriate.
Industrial Uses Policies
SMP 12.13 Priorities for Industrial Use
Give priority to industrial uses in the following order:
• First priority is given to water-dependent industrial uses.
• Second priority is given to water-related industrial uses.
SMP 12.14 Non-Water Oriented Industrial Uses
Allow new non-water oriented industrial uses only if the use includes a water-dependent use or
navigability is severely limited at the site, and provides for public access and/or ecological
restoration, or the area is physically separated from the shoreline by another public right-of-way.
SMP 12.15 Industrial Use in Impaired Shoreline Areas
Encourage industrial uses and redevelopment to locate where environmental cleanup and
restoration is needed and can be accomplished.
SMP 12.16 Water-Dependent and Water-Related Industrial Uses
Water-dependent and water-related industrial uses within shoreline jurisdiction should be
prohibited in areas that are susceptible to erosion and flooding and where there are impacts to
ecological functions.
SMP 12.17 Control Pollution and Damage
Designate and maintain appropriate areas for protecting and restoring shoreline ecological
functions and processes to control pollution and prevent damage to the shoreline environment
and/or public health.
SMP 12.18 Uses Consistent with Comprehensive Plan
Ensure shoreline uses are consistent with the City of Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan and
satisfy the economic, social, and physical needs of the City.
Shoreline Modification Policies
SMP 12.19 Shoreline Modifications
Allow structural shoreline modifications only where they are:
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• Demonstrated to be necessary to support or protect an allowed primary structure
or a legally-existing shoreline use that is in danger of loss or substantial damage;
and
• Necessary for reconfiguration of the shoreline for mitigation or enhancement
purposes.
SMP 12.20 Modification Impacts and Limitations
Reduce the adverse effects of allowed shoreline modifications and, as much as possible, limit
allowed shoreline modifications in number and extent unless they are necessary to support or
protect an allowed primary structure or a legally existing shoreline use that is in danger of loss
or substantial damage or are necessary for reconfiguration of the shoreline for mitigation or
enhancement purposes.
SMP 12.21 Appropriate Modifications
Allow only shoreline modifications that are appropriate to the shoreline environment
designations and environmental conditions for which they are proposed.
SMP 12.22 Modifications and No Net Loss of Ecological Functions
Assure that shoreline modifications individually and cumulatively do not result in a net loss of
ecological functions by:
• Giving preference to those types of shoreline modifications that have the least
impact on ecological function; and
• Requiring mitigation of identified impacts resulting from shoreline modifications.
SMP 12.23 Shoreline Modifications Regulations
Base shoreline modification regulations on scientific and technical information of reach
conditions for the Spokane River and Shelley Lake.
SMP 12.24 Restoration of Impaired Ecological Functions
Plan for the restoration of impaired ecological functions where feasible and appropriate while
accommodating permitted uses.
SMP 12.25 Measures to Protect Ecological Functions
Incorporate all feasible measures to protect ecological shoreline functions and ecosystem-wide
processes as shoreline modifications occur.
Pier and Dock Policies
SMP 12.26 Dock Restrictions
Allow new docks only for public water-dependent uses, single-family residences, and public
access on the Spokane River and Shelley Lake.
SMP 12.27 Dock Location
Docks shall be allowed only in locations where they will not pose a public safety hazard or
adversely impact shoreline ecological functions or process and limited as follows:
• Spokane River - only in reservoir areas where flow conditions least resemble the
natural free-flowing river;
• Shelley Lake; or
• Severely ecologically-impacted shoreline areas with adequate public access.
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SMP 12.28 Dock Size
Restrict the size of new docks to the minimum necessary to serve a proposed water-dependent
use.
SMP 12.29 Demonstrate Need
Permit new docks only when specific need is demonstrated, except for single-family residences.
SMP 12.30 Expansion and Multiple Use
Encourage multiple use and expansion of existing docks over the addition and/or proliferation of
new single dock facilities.
SMP 12.31 Joint Use and Community Docks
Encourage residential development of more than two dwellings to provide community docks
rather than individual docks.
SMP 12.32 Design and Construction
Design and construct all piers and docks to avoid, minimize, and mitigate impacts to ecological
processes and functions.
Shoreline Fill Policies
SMP 12.33 Design and Location
Shoreline fills shall be designed, located, and constructed to protect shoreline ecological
function and ecosystem-wide processes including channel migration, wildlife habitat, water
quality, water currents, surface water drainage, and flood hazard protection measures.
SMP 12.34 Limitations on Fill
Fill waterward of the OHWM shall require a conditional use permit and shall only be allowed
under limited circumstances.
SMP 12.35 Fill Proposal Plan
Require a plan that addresses species removal, replanting, irrigation, erosion, sedimentation
control, and other methods of riparian corridor protection with all fill proposals.
Streambank Protection Policies
SMP 12.36 Streambank Protection Measures
The term "streambank" shall apply to all shoreline banks within the City of Spokane Valley.
Prohibit new streambank protection measures except when necessity is documented through a
geotechnical analysis of the site and shoreline characteristics. When necessity is demonstrated
and conditions require, only allow streambank protection for existing primary structures, water-
dependent development, new development, and ecological restoration or toxic clean-up
remediation projects.
SMP 12.37 Design and Location of New Development
Design and locate new development and lots created through subdivision, particularly those
located on steep slopes and bluffs, to prevent the need for future streambank protection
measures during the life of the structure.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Chapter 2- Goals and Policies
Page 16 of 18
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
SMP 12.38 Public Access
Incorporate ecological restoration and public access as part of publicly-funded streambank
protection projects.
SMP 12.39 Integrated Approach to Streambank Protection
Require an integrated approach to streambank protection. Select and design streambank
protection measures using an integrated approach requiring an analysis of the reason for the
erosion; fish and wildlife habitat characteristics, needs, and potential; and the current and future
risks associated with erosion and bank protection to property, infrastructure, fish and wildlife
habitat, and public safety.
SMP 12.40 Dredging
Site and design new development to avoid the need for new or maintenance dredging.
SMP 12.41 Dredging Restrictions
Prohibit dredging except when necessary for projects that restore ecological functions and to
maintain existing structures. Dredging is allowed as part of the permitted aggregate mining
operations in the gravel pits.
SMP 12.42 Dredging Materials
Prohibit the use or disposal of dredging materials within the shoreline except for projects that
benefit shoreline resources and except for permitted aggregate mining operations in the gravel
pits.
SMP 12.43 In-Stream Structures
Site in-stream structures to protect and preserve ecosystem-wide processes, ecological
functions, and cultural resources, including but not limited to fish and fish passage, wildlife and
water resources, shoreline critical areas, hydro-geological processes, and natural scenic vistas.
SMP 12.44 In-Stream Structure Location
Consider the full range of public interests, watershed functions and processes, and
environmental concerns when planning and locating in-stream structures, with special emphasis
on protecting and restoring priority habitats and species.
SMP 12.45 Boat Ramps and other Boating Facilities
Locate and design boat ramps and other boating facilities to meet health, safety, and welfare
requirements and to minimize adverse effects upon geo-hydraulic processes, fragile shoreline
features, natural wetlands, and aquatic and wildlife habitats.
SMP 12.46 Development of Boat Ramps and other Boating Facilities
Assure no net loss of ecological functions as a result of boat ramp or other boating facility
development.
SMP 12.47 Aesthetic Impacts of Boat Ramps and other Boating Facilities
Avoid or mitigate impacts to shoreline aesthetics as a result of boat ramp or other boating facility
development.
SMP-12.48 Habitat and Natural Systems Enhancement Projects
Advocate and foster habitat and natural system enhancement projects which restore the natural
character and function of the shoreline provided they are consistent with the Restoration Plan.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Chapter 2- Goals and Policies
Page 17 of 18
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
Gravel Pit Policies
SMP 12.49 Gravel Pit Operations
Existing gravel pit operations may continue to operate and expand consistent with operational
permits. Active gravel pits are not regulated as Shorelines of the State until reclamation is
complete and Department of Natural Resources terminates the Surface Mine Reclamation
Permit.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Chapter 2- Goals and Policies
Page 18 of 18
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
CHAPTER 3 - Environment Designations
3.0 Introduction
Shoreline Environment Designations (SED) are analogous to zoning designations for
areas within the shoreline jurisdiction. SEDs provide a uniform basis for applying
policies and use regulations within each designation, if allowed by underlaying zoning
requirements. SEDs are intended to encourage appropriate uses and activities while
providing for protection and restoration of shoreline ecological functions. It is anticipated
that reasonable standards, restrictions, and prohibitions on shoreline developments will
be instituted as shoreline regulations. This is necessary so that shoreline development
will reasonably protect existing uses and shoreline character and assure "No Net Loss"
of shoreline ecological functions is achieved.
SEDs are established based on existing use patterns, the biological and physical
character of the shoreline, and the goals and aspirations of the community as expressed
through comprehensive plans. For the City of Spokane Valley, the Inventory and
Characterization Report, prepared by URS Corp, 2010 provided information on shoreline
ecological functions; development patterns as represented by existing building lots,
zoning, and land use designations; and on current and projected uses that were used to
determine appropriate SEDs.
The shoreline designations are illustrated on the Shoreline Environment Designations
Map (Map 3.1) which is an integral part of the SMP. Characteristics and general
management policies for each of the designations are given below. They provide the
basis for development of regulations for each SED.
3.1 City of Spokane Valley Environment Designations
The information provided for each SED generally follows the state classification
guidelines (WAC 173-26-211(4) and (5)). The state guidelines provide a recommended
classification system. Local governments may establish a different designation system
or may retain their current environment designations (WAC 173-26-211(5), 211(4)(c)(i)).
The existing Pastoral, Conservancy, and Urban SEDs are proposed to be changed to
new SEDs that reflect the findings of the 2010 Shoreline Inventory (Inventory) and of
current shoreline uses as well as to allow for management of the shorelines under the
new state guidelines. The proposed SED categories are Urban-Conservancy-High
Quality (UC-HQ), Urban Conservancy (UC), Shoreline Residential—Waterfront (SR-W),
Shoreline Residential-Upland (SR-U), and Aquatic (AQ) for those areas within the
OHWM. Much of the Spokane River shoreline is designated as UC, with conservation
areas identified in the 2010 Inventory as UC-HQ. These designations closely reflect the
existing Pastoral and Conservancy designations. Two shoreline residential
environments have been added along the Spokane River and at Shelley Lake to include
those areas currently zoned Single Family Residential and that have existing single-
family residences. The Shoreline Residential designation provides a means to allow for
appropriate residential uses for those areas directly adjacent to the water (SR-W) and for
upland residential areas (SR-U).
Each of the SEDs is described more fully below. Each SED includes a purpose
statement, the designation criteria and basic management policies.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Ch. 3 Env. Designations
Page 1 of 7
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
3.1.1 Urban Conservancy— High Quality Environment (UC- HQ)
Purpose
The purpose of the "Urban Conservancy - High Quality" environment is to protect
existing ecological functions where they occur in high quality environments, while
allowing very limited compatible uses. High quality environments are those that include
intact or minimally degraded shoreline functions sensitive to human use. These areas
require that only very low intensity uses be allowed in order to maintain existing
ecological functions.
Designation Criteria
Assign an "Urban Conservancy — High Quality" environment designation to shoreline
areas that were identified in the Inventory as high quality environments exhibiting
significant habitat diversity and were noted on the Inventory as conservation areas.
These areas come close to meeting the State's "Natural" designation but due to existing
development impacts do not meet all the criteria to classify them as "Natural". These
areas are appropriate for limited low impact public uses and for restoration activities.
This designation generally impacts public lands; only three locations are located on
private property.
An "Urban Conservancy- High Quality" environment designation is assigned to shoreline
areas if any of the following characteristics apply:
A. The shoreline is ecologically intact and is performing important, shoreline
functions or ecosystem-wide process that would be damaged by human activity;
B. The shoreline is considered to represent ecosystems and geologic types that are
of particular scientific and educational interest; or
C. The shoreline is unable to support new development or uses without significant
adverse impacts to ecological functions or risk to human safety, with the
exception of the Centennial Trail and other existing low impact public uses.
Ecologically-intact shorelines can include large reaches covering multiple properties to
small areas located within a single property, and as used here, means those shoreline
areas that retain the majority of their natural shoreline functions, as evidenced by the
shoreline configuration and the presence of native vegetation. Generally, but not
necessarily, ecologically-intact shorelines are free of structural shoreline modifications,
structures, and intensive human uses.
Management Policies
A. Any use that would substantially degrade the ecological functions or natural
character of the shoreline area should not be allowed.
B. The following new uses should not be allowed:
• Commercial uses.
• Industrial uses.
• Non-water oriented recreation. (Note: This does not preclude
development associated with the Centennial Trail and other limited low
impact public uses.)
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Ch. 3 Env. Designations
Page 2 of 7
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
• Roads, utility corridors, and parking areas that can be located outside of
UC-HQ designated shorelines.
C. Single-family residential development shall be allowed within this environment if
the density and intensity of such use is limited to protect ecological functions and
be consistent with the purpose of the environment.
D. Scientific, historical, cultural, and educational research uses, and low-intensity
water-oriented recreational access uses may be allowed provided that no
significant ecological impact on the area will result.
E. New development or significant vegetation removal that would reduce the
capability of vegetation to perform normal ecological functions should not be
allowed. Do not allow the subdivision of property in a configuration that, to
achieve its intended purpose, will require significant vegetation removal or
shoreline modification that adversely impacts ecological functions.
F. Maintenance of existing utility corridor and infrastructure shall be allowed. If
existing high-quality vegetated areas are disturbed by maintenance activities
mitigation shall be required.
3.1.2 Urban Conservancy Environment (UC)
Purpose
The purpose of the "Urban Conservancy" environment is to protect and restore
ecological functions of open space, floodplain, and other sensitive lands where they exist
in urban and developed settings, while allowing for compatible uses, including
appropriate public access and recreational uses.
Designation Criteria
Assign an "Urban Conservancy" environment designation to shoreline areas appropriate
and planned for development that is compatible with maintaining or restoring the
ecological functions of the area and that are not generally suitable for water-dependent
uses if any of the following characteristics apply:
A. 1. They are suitable for water-related or water-enjoyment uses;
2. They are open space, flood plain, or other sensitive areas that should not
be intensively developed;
3. They have potential for ecological restoration;
4. They retain important ecological functions, even though partially
developed;
5. They have the potential for development that is compatible with ecological
restoration; or
B. Areas within shoreline jurisdiction that are not mapped and/or designated are
automatically assigned as "Urban Conservancy" until the shoreline can be
redesignated through a master program amendment.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Ch. 3 Env. Designations
Page 3 of 7
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
In the City, the Urban Conservancy Environment is located along much of the river with
the exception of areas that are either designated as UC-HQ or as Shoreline Residential.
As shown in the Inventory much of the near shoreline (riparian) areas are owned by the
state and managed by State Parks. Many upland areas in this designation are privately-
owned large tracts.
Management Policies
A. Uses that preserve the natural character of the area or promote preservation of
open space, floodplain, or sensitive lands either directly or over the long term
should be the primary allowed uses. Uses that result in restoration of ecological
functions should be allowed if the use is otherwise compatible with the purpose
of the environment and the setting.
B. Standards should be established for shoreline stabilization measures, vegetation
conservation, water quality, and shoreline modifications within the "Urban
Conservancy" designation. These standards shall ensure that new development
does not result in a net loss of shoreline ecological functions or further degrade
other shoreline values.
C. Public access and public recreation objectives should be implemented whenever
feasible and significant ecological impacts can be mitigated.
D. Water-oriented uses should be given priority over non-water oriented uses.
3.1.3 Shoreline Residential —Waterfront Environment (SR-W)
Purpose
The purpose of the "Shoreline Residential-Waterfront" environment is to accommodate
residential uses on lots within existing residential areas where the lot is immediately
adjacent to the shoreline.
Designation Criteria
Assign a "Shoreline Residential-Waterfront" environment designation to shoreline areas
if they are predominantly single-family or multi-family residential development or are
planned and platted for residential development and where the lot is immediately
adjacent to the shoreline.
Within the City, areas that are included in this designation include Orchard Avenue, and
portions of the Coyote Rocks development.
Management Policies
A. Standards for density or minimum frontage width, buffers and setbacks, lot
coverage limitations, shoreline stabilization, vegetation conservation, critical area
protection, and water quality shall be set to assure no net loss of shoreline
ecological functions, taking into account the environmental limitations and
sensitivity of the shoreline area, the level of infrastructure and services available,
existing zoning, and other comprehensive planning considerations.
B. Multi-family and multi-lot residential and recreational developments should
provide public access and joint use for community recreational facilities unless
appropriate public access is available as determined by a Public Access Plan.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Ch. 3 Env. Designations
Page 4 of 7
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
C. Access, utilities, and public services should be available and adequate to serve
existing needs and/or planned future development.
D. Management policies for direct access to the water, docks, and shoreline
stabilization techniques shall be included for this designation.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Ch. 3 Env. Designations
Page 5 of 7
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
3.1.4 Shoreline Residential — Upland Environment (SR-U)
Purpose
The purpose of the "Shoreline Residential-Upland" environment is to accommodate
residential uses within existing residential areas that are separated from the shoreline by
other properties.
Designation Criteria
Assign a "Shoreline Residential-Upland" environment designation to shoreline areas if
they are predominantly single-family or multi-family residential development or are
planned and platted for residential development and that are separated from the
shoreline by either State Parks land and/or by lots dedicated as open space, for example
lots managed by a neighborhood association.
Within the City, areas located within this designation include existing residential uses
including the Greenacres neighborhood and Shelley Lake.
Management Policies
A. Standards that take into consideration that these properties are separated from
the waterfront for density or minimum frontage width, buffers and setbacks, lot
coverage limitations, vegetation conservation, critical area protection, and water
quality shall be set to assure no net loss of shoreline ecological functions, taking
into account the environmental limitations and sensitivity of the shoreline upland
areas, the level of infrastructure and services available, existing zoning and other
comprehensive planning considerations.
B. Multi-family and multi-lot residential and recreational developments should
provide public access to the adjacent public lands unless appropriate public
access is available as determined by a Public Access Plan.
C. Access, utilities, and public services should be available and adequate to serve
existing needs and/or planned future development.
3.1.5 Aquatic Environment (AQ)
Purpose
The purpose of the "Aquatic" environment is to protect, restore, and manage the unique
characteristics and resources of the areas waterward of the OHWM.
Designation Criteria
Assign an "Aquatic" environment designation to lands waterward of the OHWM.
Management policies
A. Allow new over-water structures only for water-dependent uses, single-family
residential docks, public access, or ecological restoration.
B. Permitting for activities and structures within the "Aquatic" environment shall
comply with all state and federal laws, including coordination with applicable
agencies.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Ch. 3 Env. Designations
Page 6 of 7
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
C. The "Aquatic" environment shall allow for public use on public waterways.
D. The size of new over-water structures should be limited to the minimum
necessary to support the structure's intended use.
E. In order to reduce the impacts of shoreline development and increase effective
use of water resources, multiple use of over-water facilities should be
encouraged.
F. All developments and uses on navigable waters or their beds should be located
and designed to minimize interference with surface navigation, to consider
impacts to public views, and to allow for the safe, unobstructed passage of fish
and wildlife.
G. Uses that adversely impact the ecological functions of freshwater habitats should
not be allowed except where necessary to achieve the objectives of RCW
90.58.020, and then only when their impacts are mitigated according to the
sequence described in WAC 173-26-201(2)(e) as necessary to assure no net
loss of ecological functions.
H. Shoreline uses and modifications should be designed and managed to prevent
degradation of water quality and alteration of natural hydrographic conditions.
Local governments should reserve shoreline space for shoreline preferred uses.
Such planning should consider upland and in-water uses, water quality,
navigation, presence of aquatic vegetation, critical habitats, aesthetics, public
access, and views.
3.2 Historical City of Spokane Valley Environment Designations
Most of the Spokane River shorelines have an existing SED of Pastoral. There are four
areas within the City that due to existing uses have been designated as Conservancy.
Two of these areas are associated with railroads; the other two are Sullivan Park and
Mirabeau Park. Shorelines in the Orchard Avenue area are designated as Urban. The
shorelines around Shelley Lake are designated entirely as Conservancy. The gravel pits
were not designated in the current SMP, though the Sullivan Road gravel pit has a
shoreline permit.
The Pastoral and Conservancy designations are both protective of the natural
environment and limit many uses. A description of each of the current environment
designations is provided below as well as a summary of some of the relevant Goals and
Policies contained in Chapter 8 of the City Comprehensive Plan.
The Pastoral Area Designation
The Pastoral area is intended to protect and maintain those shorelines which have
historically been subject to limited human interference and have preserved their natural
quality as wildlife habitat and places of scenic beauty. These areas are appropriate for
passive agricultural and recreational uses. Areas most appropriate are:
1. Open spaces used for livestock grazing and harvesting of non-cultivated
crops;
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Ch. 3 Env. Designations
Page 7 of 7
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
2. Shorelines which have physical limitations which would preclude
permanent structures, such as floodplains, meandering stream ways,
cliffs, and steep slope areas subject to landslides; and
3. Wildlife habitats and areas of beauty whose ecological systems will only
tolerate limited human interference.
Because the areas are not suited for permanent structures, they are valued wildlife
areas which provide for grazing and "wild hay" for dispersed-use outdoor recreation.
Management of the area should be designed to prevent the loss or reduction of the
wetland area and to restrict development from hazardous areas.
The Conservancy Area Designation
The Conservancy Area is designated in the City for the purpose of maintaining the
existing character of shoreline resources while providing for non-intensive uses. Those
uses that are preferred in the Conservancy Area are those which may utilize the natural
resources on a sustained-yield basis. These uses include passive agricultural activity,
timber harvesting on a sustained-yield basis, and diffuse outdoor recreation. The
Conservancy Area is designated to protect agricultural land from encroachment by urban
uses while providing for recreation wherever recreation will not interfere with agricultural
practices. Non-permanent kinds of structures and uses which will not reduce the
quantity or quality of the physical and biological resources of the area are to be given
priority in the Conservancy Area.
The Conservancy Area is intended to prohibit intensive use of areas having physical
hazards, severe biophysical limitations which would not be appropriate for rural or urban
uses, areas prone to flooding, and areas which cannot provide adequate water supply or
sewage disposal for intensive activities.
The Urban Area Designation
The Urban Area designation is intended to accommodate compatible water-dependent
and water-oriented uses in shoreline areas. The Urban Area is to be managed so that
shoreline developments will enhance and maintain the shoreline for a multiplicity of
uses. The Urban Area is designated in the City to encourage the redevelopment of
existing urban areas and to control the expansion of urban uses in characteristically rural
areas of the county. Those urban uses which are water-dependent and can provide
visual and/or safe access to the waterfront are to be given priority for shoreline locations.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Ch. 3 Env. Designations
Page 8 of 7
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Notice: The information shown on this map is compiled from various ---17... - Environment Designation Map
Shoreline Residential - Waterfront - - - - . Centennial Trail sources.The City makes no claims or guarantees about the accuracy
or currency of this map and expressly disclaims liability for errors Map 3.1
Urban ConservancyParcels and omissions in its contents.To confirm accuracy contact the Prq/ec[ian Lambert Conformal came
City of Spokane Valley, Community and Economic Development central Meridian:-177.42 degrees
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Cityof Spokane Valley p Valley Effective Date:September 3, 2015
Urban Conservancy HQ •••_•._ p . 0125 025 05 Shoreline Master Program Ordinance No.: 14-020
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
Chapter 4 - CHAPTER 21.50 - SHORELINE REGULATIONS
4.0 Shoreline Permits, Procedures, and Administration
21.50.010 Applicability, Shoreline Permits, and Exemptions
To be authorized, all uses and development activities in shorelines shall comply with the City of
Spokane Valley's (City) Shoreline Master Program (SMP) and the Shoreline Management Act
(SMA) pursuant to RCW 90.58.140(1). All regulations applied within the shoreline shall be
liberally construed to give full effect to the objectives and purposes for which they have been
enacted.
21.50.020 Applicability
A. The SMP shall apply to all shorelands, shorelines, and waters within the City that fall
under the jurisdiction of chapter 90.58 RCW. The Shoreline Designations Map is shown
in Appendix A. These include:
1. Lands extending 200 feet from the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) of waters
that fall under the jurisdiction of chapter 90.58 RCW, in all directions as
measured on a horizontal plane;
2. Floodways and contiguous floodplain areas landward 200 feet from such
floodways;
3. Critical areas within the shoreline and their associated buffer areas; and
4. Lakes that are subject to the provisions of the SMP, as may be amended.
B. Maps depicting the extent of shoreline jurisdiction and shoreline designations are for
guidance only. They are to be used in conjunction with best available science, field
investigations, and on-site surveys to accurately establish the location and extent of the
shoreline jurisdiction when a project is proposed. All areas meeting the definition of a
shoreline or a Shoreline of Statewide Significance, whether mapped or not, are subject
to the provisions of the SMP. Within the City, Shelley Lake is considered a Shoreline of
the State and is subject to the provisions of the SMP. The Spokane River is further
identified as a Shoreline of Statewide Significance.
C. The SMP shall apply to every person, individual, firm, partnership, association,
organization, corporation, local or state governmental agency, public or municipal
corporation, or other non-federal entity that develops, owns, leases, or administers
lands, critical areas, or waters that fall under the jurisdiction of the SMA.
D. Hazardous substance remedial actions pursuant to a consent decree, order, or agreed
order issued pursuant to chapter 70.105D RCW are exempt from all procedural
requirements of the SMP.
E. Development may require a shoreline permit in addition to other approvals required from
the City, state, and federal agencies.
F. The SMP shall apply whether the proposed development or activity is exempt from a
shoreline permit or not.
G. Definitions relevant to the SMP are set forth in Appendix A-1. If any conflict occurs
between the definitions found in Appendix A-1, and Appendix A, the definition provided
in Appendix A-1 shall govern.
Council Adopted by Ordinance No. 15-024 Chapter 4 Development Regulations
Page 1 of 61
City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
H. When the provisions set forth in SVMC 21.50 conflict with other provisions of the SMP or
with federal or state regulations, those which provide more substantive protection to the
shoreline shall apply.
21.50.030 Administrative Authority and Responsibility
A. The City Manager has designated the Community Development Director (Director) as
the City's shoreline administrator, who shall carry out the provisions of the SMP and who
shall have the authority to act upon the following matters:
1. Interpretation, enforcement, and administration of the SMP;
2. Modifications or revisions to approved shoreline permits as provided in the SMP;
and
3. Requests for Letters of Exemption.
B. The Director shall ensure compliance with the provisions of the SMP for all shoreline
permits and approvals processed by the City pursuant to SVMC 21.50.100, 21.50.110,
21.50.130, and 21.50.140.
C. The Director shall document all project review actions in the shoreline jurisdiction in
order to periodically evaluate the cumulative effects of authorized development on
shoreline conditions, pursuant to WAC 173-26-191(2)(a)(iii)(D).
D. The Director shall consult with Ecology to ensure that any formal written interpretations
are consistent with the purpose and intent of chapter 90.58 RCW and the applicable
guidelines of chapter 173-26 and 173-27 WAC.
21.50.040 Types of Shoreline Permits
Developments and uses within the shoreline jurisdiction may be authorized through one or more
of the following:
A. Shoreline Substantial Development Permit, pursuant to SVMC 21.50.100, for substantial
development.
B. Shoreline Conditional Use Permit, pursuant to SVMC 21.50.130, for projects identified in
SVMC 21.50.190 or uses not specified in the SMP.
C. Letters of Exemption, pursuant to SVMC 21.50.120, for projects or activities meeting the
criteria of RCW 90.58.030(3)(e) and WAC 173-27-040(2).
D. Shoreline Variance, pursuant to SVMC 21.50.140.
21.50.050 Development Authorization Review Procedure
A. Complete development applications and appeals shall be processed pursuant to SVMC
17.80 Permit Processing Procedures, SVMC 17.90 Appeals, and with any specific
process requirements provided in SVMC 21.50 including:
1. Submittals;
2. Completeness review;
3. Notices;
4. Hearings;
5. Decisions; and
6. Appeals.
B. The following procedures shall also apply to development authorizations within the
shoreline jurisdiction:
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1. The public comment period for Shoreline Substantial Development Permits shall
be 30 days, pursuant to WAC 173-27-110.
2. The public comment period for limited utility extensions and shoreline
stabilization measures for bulkheads to protect a single-family residence and its
appurtenant structures shall be 20 days, pursuant to WAC 173-27-120.
3. For limited utility extensions and bulkheads for a single-family residence, a
decision shall be issued within 21 days from the last day of the comment period,
pursuant to WAC 173-27-120.
4. The effective date of a shoreline permit shall conform to WAC 173-27-090 and
shall be the latter of the permit date, or the date of final action on subsequent
appeals of the shoreline permit, if any, unless the Applicant notifies the shoreline
administrator of delays in other necessary construction permits.
5. The expiration dates for a shoreline permit pertaining to the start and completion
of construction, and the extension of deadlines for those dates shall conform to
WAC 173-27-090 and are:
a. Construction shall be started within two years of the effective date of the
shoreline permit;
b. Construction shall be completed within five years of the effective date of
the shoreline permit;
c. A single one-year extension of the deadlines may be granted at the
discretion of the Director; and
d. The Director may set alternative permit expiration dates as a condition of
the shoreline permit if just cause exists.
6 The decision and the application materials shall be sent to Ecology after the local
decision and any local appeal procedures have been completed, pursuant to
WAC 173-27-130.
7. For Shoreline Substantial Development Permits, Ecology shall file the permit
without additional action pursuant to WAC 173-27-130.
8. For Shoreline Conditional Use permits and Variance decisions, Ecology shall
issue a decision within 30 days of the date of filing, pursuant to WAC 173-27-130
and WAC 173-27-200.
9. The appeal period to the Shorelines Hearings Board of an Ecology action shall
be 21 days from the date of filing for a Shoreline Substantial Development
Permit, or the issue date of a Shoreline Conditional Use permit or Variance
decision, pursuant to WAC 173-27-190.
10. The Shorelines Hearings Board will follow the rules governing that body,
pursuant to chapter 90.58 RCW.
C. Development applications shall be reviewed for conformance with SVMC 21.50.180
through 21.50.560.
21.50.060 Authorization Decisions - Basis for Action
A. Approval or denial of any development or use within the shoreline jurisdiction shall be
based upon the following:
1. Danger to life and property that would likely occur as a result of the project;
2. Compatibility of the project with the critical area features on, adjacent to, or near
the property, shoreline values and ecological functions, and public access and
navigation;
3. Conformance with the applicable development standards in SVMC 21.50;
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4. Requirements of other applicable local, state, or federal permits or
authorizations;
5. Adequacy of the information provided by the Applicant or available to the
Director; and
6. Ability of the project to satisfy the purpose and intent of the SMP.
B. Based upon the project evaluation, the Director shall take one of the following actions:
1. Approve the development or use;
2. Approve the development or use with conditions, pursuant to SVMC 21.50.070;
or
3. Deny the development or use.
C. The decision by the Director on the development or use shall include written findings and
conclusions stating the reasons upon which the decision is based.
21.50.070 Conditions of Approval
When approving any development or use, the Director may impose conditions to:
A. Accomplish the purpose and intent of the SMP;
B. Eliminate or mitigate any negative impacts of the project on critical areas, and on
shoreline functions;
C. Restore important resource features that have been degraded or lost on the project site;
D. Protect designated critical areas and shoreline jurisdiction from damaging and
incompatible development; or
E. Ensure compliance with specific development standards in SVMC 21.50.
21.50.080 Prohibited Activities and Uses
The following activities and uses are prohibited in all shoreline designations and are not eligible
for a shoreline permit, including a Conditional Use or Shoreline Variance. See Table 21.50-1
and Table 21.50-2.
A. Uses not allowed in the underlying zoning district;
B. Discharge of solid wastes, liquid wastes, untreated effluents, or other potentially harmful
materials;
C. Solid waste or hazardous waste landfills;
D. Speculative fill;
E. Dredging or dredge material disposal in wetlands;
F. Dredging or dredge material disposal to construct land canals or small basins for boat
moorage or launching, water ski landings, swimming holes, or other recreational
activities;
G. Commercial timber harvest or other forest practices;
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H. Agriculture and aquaculture;
Non water-oriented Industrial Uses and Mining; and
J. The construction of breakwaters, jetties, groins, or weirs.
21.50.090 Minor Activities Allowed Without a Shoreline Permit or Letter of Exemption
The SMP applies to the following activities, however, they are allowed without a shoreline permit
or Letter of Exemption:
A. Maintenance of existing landscaping (including paths and trails) or gardens within the
shoreline, including a regulated critical area or its buffer. Examples include mowing
lawns, weeding, harvesting and replanting of garden crops, pruning, and planting of non-
invasive ornamental vegetation or indigenous native species to maintain the general
condition and extent of such areas. Removing trees and shrubs within a buffer is not
considered a maintenance activity. See SVMC 21.50.260 for regulations regarding
vegetation removal. Excavation, filling, and construction of new landscaping features
are not considered a maintenance activity and may require a shoreline permit or letter of
exemption.
B. Minor maintenance and/or repair of lawfully established structures that do not involve
additional construction, earthwork, or clearing. Examples include painting, trim or facing
replacement, re-roofing, etc. Construction or replacement of structural elements is not
covered in this provision, but may be covered under an exemption in SVMC
21.50.110(B).
C. Cleaning canals, ditches, drains, wasteways, etc. without expanding their original
configuration is not considered additional earthwork, as long as the cleared materials are
placed outside the shoreline jurisdiction, wetlands, and buffers.
D. Creation of unimproved private trails that do not cross streams or wetlands and which
are less than two feet wide and do not involve placement of fill or grubbing of vegetation.
E. Planting of native vegetation.
F. Noxious weed control outside of buffers pursuant to SVMC 21.50.110(M) except for area
wide vegetation removal/grubbing.
G. Noxious weed control within vegetative buffers, if the criteria listed below is met. Control
methods not meeting these criteria may still apply for a restoration exemption, or other
authorization as applicable:
1. Hand removal/spraying of individual plants only; and
2. No area-wide vegetation removal/grubbing.
H. Pruning, thinning, or dead or hazardous tree removal pursuant to SVMC 21.50.260(C).
21.50.100 Shoreline Substantial Development Permit Required
A. Classification Criteria -A Shoreline Substantial Development Permit is required for any
substantial development unless the use or development is specifically exempt pursuant
to SVMC 21.50.090 or 21.50.110.
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B. Process - Shoreline Substantial Development Permits shall be processed as a Type II
review pursuant to SVMC 17.80 Permit Processing Procedures, subject to the
exceptions set forth in SVMC 21.50.050.
C. Decision Criteria - A Shoreline Substantial Development Permit may be issued when all
applicable requirements of the SMA, WAC 173-27, and the SMP have been met.
21.50.110 Exemptions from Shoreline Substantial Development Permit
The activities listed below are exempt from the requirement to obtain a Shoreline Substantial
Development Permit pursuant to WAC 173-27-040. These activities still require a letter of
exemption and may require a Shoreline Conditional Use Permit, Shoreline Variance, or other
development permits from the City or other agencies.
If any part of a proposed development is not eligible for a Letter of Exemption, then a Shoreline
Substantial Development Permit is required for the entire proposed development project.
Exemptions shall be construed narrowly. Only those developments that meet the precise terms
of one or more of the listed exemptions may be granted exemptions from the Shoreline
Substantial Development Permit.
A. Any development of which the total cost or fair market value does not exceed $6,416 or
as adjusted by the State Office of Financial Management, if such development does not
materially interfere with the normal public use of the water or Shorelines of the State.
For purposes of determining whether or not a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit
is required, the total cost or fair market value shall be based on the value of
development as defined in RCW 90.58.030(2)(c). The total cost or fair market value of
the development shall include the fair market value of any donated, contributed, or found
labor, equipment, or materials.
B. Normal maintenance or repair of existing legally-established structures or developments,
including damage by accident, fire, or elements.
1. Normal maintenance includes those usual acts to prevent a decline, lapse, or
cessation from a lawfully established condition.
2. Normal repair means to restore a development to a state comparable to its
original condition, including but not limited to its size, shape, configuration,
location, and external appearance, within a reasonable period after decay or
partial destruction, except where repair causes substantial adverse effects to the
shoreline resource or environment.
3. Replacement of a structure or development may be authorized as repair where
such replacement is:
a. The common method of repair for the type of structure or development
and the replacement structure or development is comparable to the
original structure or development including but not limited to its size,
shape, configuration, location, and external appearance; and
b. The replacement does not cause substantial adverse effects to shoreline
resources or environment.
C. Construction of a normal protective bulkhead common to residential lots:
1. A normal protective bulkhead includes those structural and nonstructural
developments installed at or near, and parallel to, the OHWM for the sole
purpose of protecting an existing residence and appurtenant structures from loss
or damage by erosion.
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2. A normal protective bulkhead is not exempt if constructed for the purpose of
creating dry land. When a vertical or near vertical wall is being constructed or
reconstructed, not more than one cubic yard of fill per one foot of wall may be
used as backfill.
3. When an existing bulkhead is being repaired by 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. When a
bulkhead has deteriorated such that an OHWM has been established by the
presence and action of water landward of the bulkhead then the replacement
bulkhead must be located at or near the actual OHWM.
4. 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 project has been approved
by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
D. Emergency construction necessary to protect property from damage by the elements.
An "emergency" is an unanticipated and imminent threat to public health, safety, or the
environment that requires immediate action within a time too short to allow full
compliance with Chapter 21.50.
1. Emergency construction does not include development of new permanent
protective structures where none previously existed. Where new protective
structures are deemed by the Director to be the appropriate means to address
the emergency situation, upon abatement of the emergency situation the new
structure shall be removed or any permit that would have been required, absent
an emergency, pursuant to chapter 90.58 RCW, WAC 173-27, or the SMP, shall
be obtained.
2. All emergency construction shall be consistent with the policies and requirements
of chapter 90.58 RCW and the SMP. As a general matter, flooding or other
seasonal events that can be anticipated and may occur but that are not imminent
are not an emergency.
E. Construction or modification of navigational aids such as channel markers and anchor
buoys.
F. Construction on shorelands by an owner, lessee, or contract purchaser of a single-family
residence or appurtenance for their own use or for the use of their family, which
residence does not exceed a height of 35 feet above average grade level, and which
meets all requirements of the City, other than requirements imposed pursuant to chapter
90.58 RCW. Construction authorized under this subsection shall be located landward of
the OHWM.
G. Construction of a dock, including a community dock, designed for pleasure craft only, for
the private non-commercial use of the owner, lessee, or contract purchaser of a single-
family or multiple-family residence. A dock is a landing and moorage facility for
watercraft and does not include recreational decks, storage facilities, or other
appurtenances. This exception applies when the fair market value of the dock does not
exceed $20,000, but if subsequent construction having a fair market value exceeding
$2,500 occurs within five years of completion of the prior construction, the subsequent
construction shall be considered a substantial development.
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H. Operation, maintenance, or construction of canals, waterways, drains, reservoirs, or
other facilities that now exist or are hereafter created or developed as a part of an
irrigation system for the primary purpose of making use of system waters, including
return flow and artificially stored ground water from the irrigation of lands.
The marking of property lines or corners on state-owned lands, when such marking does
not significantly interfere with normal public use of the surface of the water.
J. Operation and maintenance of any system of dikes, ditches, drains, or other facilities
existing on September 8, 1975, which were created, developed, or utilized primarily as a
part of an agricultural drainage or diking system.
K. Any project with a State Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council certification from the
governor pursuant to RCW 80.50.
L. Site exploration and investigation activities that are prerequisite to preparation of an
application for development authorization under this chapter, if:
1. The activity does not interfere with the normal public use of surface waters;
2. The activity will have no significant adverse impact on the environment including
but not limited to fish, wildlife, fish or wildlife habitat, water quality, and aesthetic
values;
3. The activity does not involve the installation of any structure, and upon
completion of the activity the vegetation and land configuration of the site are
restored to conditions existing before the activity; and
4. The Applicant first posts a performance surety acceptable to the City to ensure
that the site is restored to pre-existing conditions.
M. Removing or controlling aquatic noxious weeds, as defined in RCW 17.26.020, through
the use of an herbicide or other treatment methods applicable to weed control published
by the Department of Agriculture or Ecology jointly with other state agencies under RCW
43.21 C.
N. Watershed restoration projects as defined in WAC 173.27.040(2)(o). The Director shall
determine if the project is substantially consistent with the SMP and notify the Applicant
of such determination by letter.
O. A public or private project that is designed to improve fish or wildlife habitat or fish
passage as reviewed by WDFW and all of the following apply:
1. The project has been approved in writing by the WDFW;
2. The project has received hydraulic project approval by the WDFW pursuant to
chapter 77.55 RCW; and
3. The Director has determined that the project is substantially consistent with the
SMP and shall notify the Applicant of such determination by letter.
21.50.120 Letter of Exemption
A. The proponent of an activity exempt from a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit
shall apply for a Letter of Exemption. All activities exempt from the requirement for a
Shoreline Substantial Development Permit shall use reasonable methods to avoid
impacts to critical areas within the shoreline jurisdiction. Being exempt from the
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requirements for a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit does not give authority to
degrade a critical area, or shoreline, or ignore risk from natural hazards.
B. The Director shall review the Letter of Exemption request to verify compliance with the
SMP and shall approve or deny such Letter of Exemption.
C. If a Letter of Exemption is issued, it shall be sent to Ecology, the Applicant, and a copy
retained by the City.
D. A Letter of Exemption may contain conditions and/or mitigating conditions of approval to
achieve consistency and compliance with the provisions of the SMP and the SMA.
E. A denial of a Letter of Exemption shall be in writing and shall list the reason(s) for the
denial.
21.50.130 Shoreline Conditional Use Permit
A. Classification Criteria - Shoreline conditional uses are those uses within the shoreline
jurisdiction identified in Table 21.50-1 Shoreline Use Table, which require a Shoreline
Conditional Use Permit.
B. Unclassified uses not specifically identified in Table 21.50-1 may be authorized through
a Shoreline Conditional Use Permit, provided the Applicant can demonstrate consistency
with the requirements of SVMC 21.50.
C. Process - A Shoreline Conditional Use Permit shall be processed as a Type II review
pursuant to SVMC 17.80 Permit Processing Procedures. The Director shall be the final
authority for the City, whose recommendation is then forwarded to Ecology. Ecology
shall have final approval authority pursuant to WAC 173-27-200.
D. Decision Criteria - The Director's decision on a conditional use shall be based upon the
criteria set forth in SVMC 19.150.030 and 21.50.060 Conditions and Requirements,
together with the criteria established below. The Applicant shall demonstrate to the
satisfaction of the Director that the development meets all of the following criteria:
1. The use is consistent with the policies of RCW 90.58.020;
2. The use will not interfere with the normal public use of public shorelines;
3. The use of the site and design of the project is compatible with other permitted
uses in the area;
4. The use will cause no significant adverse effects to the shoreline environment
designation in which it is located; and
5. The public interest will suffer no substantial detrimental effect.
E. Consideration shall be given to the cumulative impact of additional requests for like
actions in the area. For example, if Shoreline Conditional Use Permits were granted for
other developments in the area where similar circumstances exist for similar uses and
impacts, the total cumulative effect of the conditional uses shall also remain consistent
with the policies of RCW 90.58.020 and shall not produce substantial adverse effects to
the shoreline environment.
F. The burden of proving that the project is consistent with the applicable criteria shall be
upon the Applicant.
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21.50.140 Shoreline Variance
A. The purpose of a Shoreline Variance is to grant relief to specific bulk or dimensional
requirements set forth in SVMC 21.50 where extraordinary or unique circumstances
exist relating to the property such that the strict implementation of the standards would
impose unnecessary hardships on the Applicant, or thwart the policies set forth in the
SMA and the SMP.
B. When a development or use is proposed that does not meet requirements of the bulk,
dimensional, and/or performance standards of the SMP, such development may only be
authorized by approval of a Shoreline Variance, even if the development or use does not
require a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit.
C. Process - A Shoreline Variance shall be processed as a Type II review pursuant to
SVMC 17.80 Permit Processing Procedures. Each request for a Shoreline Variance
shall be considered separately and prior to any decision on a development application.
Any decision to approve or conditionally approve the development will include and
specifically cite only those variances approved for inclusion with the project.
D. When a Shoreline Variance is requested, the Director shall be the final authority for the
City. The Director's determination shall be provided to Ecology for review. Ecology shall
have final approval authority of Shoreline Variances pursuant to RCW 90.58.140(10).
E. Decision Criteria - To qualify for a Shoreline Variance, the following shall be required:
1. Demonstrate compliance with the criteria established in SVMC 21.50.060
Authorization Decisions - Basis for Action.
2. A Shoreline Variance request for a development or use located landward of the
OHWM, or landward of any wetland shall cite the specific standard or condition
from which relief is requested and be accompanied by evidence that
demonstrates the variance is consistent with all of the items below:
a. That the strict application of a standard precludes, or significantly
interferes with, reasonable use of the property;
b. That the hardship described in subsection (a) is specifically related to the
property, and is a result of unique natural or physical conditions, such as
irregular lot shape, size, or natural features which do not allow compliance
with the standard. The site constraint shall not be the result of a deed
restriction, a lack of knowledge of requirements involved when the property
was acquired, or other actions resulting from the proponent's own actions;
c. The project is generally compatible with other permitted or authorized uses
in the project area, with uses planned for the area under the
Comprehensive Plan and the SMP, and will not cause adverse impacts to
the area;
d. The requested variance would not constitute a grant of special privilege
not enjoyed by other properties in the area, and the variance is the
minimum necessary to afford the requested relief; and
e. That the public interest will suffer no substantial detrimental effect.
3. A Shoreline Variance request for a development or use located waterward of the
OHWM, or within any wetland shall cite the specific standard or condition from
which relief is requested and be accompanied by evidence that demonstrates the
variance is consistent with all of the items below:
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a. That the strict application of a standard would preclude all reasonable use
of the property;
b. That the proposal is consistent with the criteria established under
subsection (2)(b) through (e) of this section; and
c. That the public rights of navigation and use of the shorelines will not be
adversely affected.
4. In the granting of any Shoreline Variance, consideration shall be given to the
cumulative impact of additional requests for like variances in the area. For
example, if Shoreline Variances were granted to other developments and/or uses
in the area where similar circumstances exist, the total of the variances shall also
remain consistent with the policies of the SMA and SMP and shall not cause
substantial adverse impacts to the shoreline environment.
F. The burden of proving that a proposed variance meets the criteria of the SMP and WAC
173-27-170 shall be on the Applicant. Absence of such proof shall be a basis for denial
of the application.
21.50.150 Nonconforming Development
A. Classification Criteria—A use, structure, appurtenant structure, or lot is nonconforming if
it was legally established but is inconsistent with a subsequently adopted regulation or
regulations. Lawful uses, structures, appurtenant structures, and lots that are deemed
nonconforming are subject to the provision of this section.
B. Process and Decision Criteria
1. Decisions on projects that require review under this section shall be made
pursuant to SVMC 21.50.060 Authorization Decisions - Basis for Action and the
following criteria.
2. Legal nonconforming uses and structures shall be allowed to continue with no
additional requirements except as otherwise addressed in this section.
3. Nonconforming Uses.
a. Additional development of any property on which a nonconforming use
exists shall require that all new uses conform to the SMP.
b. Intensification or expansion of nonconforming uses that will not result in
an increase of nonconformity shall be allowed and will be processed
under these nonconforming provisions as a Type II review, pursuant to
SVMC Title 17.80 Permit Processing Procedures.
c. Change of ownership, tenancy, or management of a nonconforming use
shall not affect its nonconforming status provided that the use does not
change or intensify.
d. If a nonconforming use is converted to a conforming use, a
nonconforming use may not be resumed.
e. Conversion from one nonconforming use to another may only be
approved through a Shoreline Conditional Use Permit pursuant to SVMC
21.50.130(E) if the following additional criteria are met:
The property is located within a residential or conservancy
shoreline environment;
ii. The replacement use is either of a similar intensity to the previous
nonconforming use, or is more conforming with the intent of the
applicable Shoreline Environment Policies; and
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iii. The impacts to the shoreline ecological functions from the existing
use are reduced by changing the use.
f. When the operation of a nonconforming use is discontinued or
abandoned for a period of 12 consecutive months, the nonconforming use
rights shall expire and the future use of such property shall meet all
current applicable regulations of the SMP.
g. If a conforming building housing a nonconforming use is damaged, the
use may be resumed at the time the building is repaired, provided a
permit application for the restoration is received by the City within 12
months following said damage.
h. Normal maintenance and repair of a structure housing a nonconforming
use may be permitted provided all work is consistent with the provisions
of the SMP.
Legally established residences are considered conforming uses.
4. Nonconforming Structures.
a. A nonconforming structure may be maintained or repaired, provided such
improvements do not increase the nonconformity of such structure and
are consistent with the remaining provisions of the SMP.
b. Alterations to legal nonconforming structures that:
Will result in an increase of nonconformity to the structures,
including expanding within the buffer, may be allowed under a
Shoreline Variance pursuant to SVMC 21.50.140; or
ii Do not increase the existing nonconformity and will otherwise
conform to all other provisions of SVMC 21.50 are allowed without
additional review.
c. A nonconforming structure that is moved any distance within the shoreline
jurisdiction shall be brought into conformance with the SMP.
d. A damaged nonconforming structure may be reconstructed or replaced,
regardless of the amount of damage if:
The rebuilt structure or portion of structure does not expand or
modify the original footprint or height of the damaged structure
unless:
(1). The expansion or modification does not increase
the degree of nonconformity with the current
regulations; and
(2). The reconstructed or restored structure will not
cause additional adverse effects to adjacent
properties or the shoreline environment;
ii. It is not relocated except to increase conformity or to increase
ecological function, in which case the structure shall be located in
the least environmentally damaging location possible;
iii. The permit application to restore the development is made within
12 months of the date the damage occurred; and
iv. Any residential structures, including multi-family structures, may
be reconstructed up to the size, placement, and density that
existed prior to the damage, so long as other provisions of the
SMP are met.
5. Nonconforming Lots. Legally established nonconforming, undeveloped lots
located landward of the OHWM are buildable, provided that all new structures or
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additions to structures on any nonconforming lot must meet all setback, height,
and other construction requirements of the SMP and the SMA.
21.50.160 Minor Revisions to Approved Uses or Developments
A. Classification Criteria - Minor revisions to a project that have been approved under a
shoreline permit are allowed in certain circumstances.
1. Changes that are not substantive are not required to obtain a revision and may
be allowed as part of the original shoreline permit. Examples include, but are not
limited to, minor changes in facility orientation or location, minor changes in
structural design that do not change the height or increase ground floor area, and
minor accessory structures such as equipment covers or small sheds near the
main structure.
2. Substantive changes are those that materially alter the project in a manner that
relates to its conformance with the shoreline permit and SMP requirements.
Such changes may be approved as a minor revision if:
a. The Director determines that the proposed revision and all previous
revisions are within the scope and intent of the original shoreline permit;
b. The use authorized with the original shoreline permit does not change;
c. The project revision does not cause additional significant adverse
environmental impacts;
d. No new structures are proposed; and
e. The criteria in SVMC 21.50.160(A)(3) are met.
3. Substantive changes shall comply with the following to be approved as a minor
revision:
a. No additional over-water construction shall be involved, except that pier,
dock, or swimming float construction may be increased by 10 percent
from the provisions of the original shoreline permit;
b. Lot coverage and height approved with the original shoreline permit may
be increased a maximum of 10 percent if the proposed revisions do not
exceed the requirements for height or lot coverage pursuant to SVMC
21.50.220 Dimensional Standards and SVMC Title 19 Zoning
Regulations; and
c. Landscaping may be added to a project without necessitating an
application for a new shoreline permit if the landscaping is consistent with
permit conditions (if any) and SVMC 21.50.
4. Substantive changes which cannot meet these requirements shall require a new
shoreline permit. Any additional shoreline permit shall be processed under the
applicable terms of this chapter.
B. Process - Requests for minor revisions to existing shoreline permits shall be processed
as a Type I review, pursuant to SVMC Title 17.80 Permit Processing Procedures.
Parties of record to the original shoreline permit shall be notified of the request for
revision, although a comment period is not required. A minor revision for a project within
shoreline jurisdiction shall follow state filing, appeal, and approval standards pursuant to
WAC 173-27-100 Revisions to Permits.
C. Decision Criteria - Decisions on minor revisions shall be pursuant to SVMC 21.50.060
Authorization Decisions — Basis for Action.
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
21.50.170 Enforcement
A. Enforcement of the SMP, including the provisions of SVMC 21.50, shall be pursuant to
SVMC 17.100. Nothing herein or within SVMC 17.100 shall be construed to require
enforcement of the SMP and SVMC 21.50 in a particular manner or to restrict the
discretion of the Director in determining how and when to enforce the SMP and SVMC
21.50; provided all enforcement shall be consistent with the policies of the SMP and
SVMC 21.50.
B. Upon a determination that a violation of the SMP, including SVMC 21.50, has occurred,
no further development may be authorized unless and until compliance with any
applicable shoreline and development permit or process conditions and requirements of
SVMC 21.50 have been achieved to the satisfaction of the Director.
C. For violations affecting a critical area, the party(s) responsible for the violation and the
owner shall meet the following minimum performance standards to achieve the
restoration requirements, as applicable:
1. A restoration plan shall be prepared and address the following:
a. Restoration of historical structural and functional values, including water
quality and habitat functions;
b. Ensure that replacement soils will be viable for planting and will not create
a less fertile growing conditions;
c. Replacement of native vegetation within the critical area, and buffers with
native vegetation that replicates the vegetation historically found on the
site in species types, sizes, and densities;
d. Replication of the historic functions and values at the location of the
alteration;
e. Annual performance monitoring reports demonstrating compliance with
mitigation plan requirements shall be submitted for a minimum two-year
period; and
f. As-built drawings and other information demonstrating compliance with
other applicable provisions of the SMP shall be submitted.
2. The following additional performance standards shall be met for restoration of
frequently flooded areas and geological hazards and be included in the
restoration plan:
a. The hazard shall be reduced to a level equal to, or less than, the pre-
development hazard;
b. Any risk of personal injury resulting from the alteration shall be eliminated;
and
c. The hazard area and buffers shall be replanted with native vegetation
sufficient to minimize the hazard.
3. The Director may, at the violator's expense, consult with a Qualified Professional
to determine if the plan meets the requirements of the SMP. Inadequate plans
shall be returned to the violator for revision and resubmittal.
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4.1 Shoreline Regulations
21.50.180 General provisions
A. General Regulations.
1. Regulations in SVMC 21.50.180 through 21.50.290 are in addition to the specific
use regulations in SVMC 21.50.300 through 21.50.450 and other adopted rules,
including but not limited to the Spokane Valley Municipal Code, the Spokane
Valley Comprehensive Plan, the Spokane Valley Street Standards, and the
Spokane Regional Stormwater Manual, as adopted or amended.
2. All permitted and exempt projects within the shoreline jurisdiction shall ensure
that the no net loss of ecological functions standard is met. SVMC 21.50.210 No
Net Loss and Mitigation Sequencing and SVMC 21.50.260 Shoreline Vegetation
Conservation contain appropriate methods to achieve no net loss of shoreline
ecological function. The City may also condition project dimensions, location of
project components on the site, intensity of use, screening, parking requirements,
and setbacks, as deemed appropriate.
3. All shoreline uses and modifications shall obtain all necessary permits from the
appropriate local, state, and federal agencies and shall operate in compliance
with all permit requirements.
4. Deviations from regulations may be granted through a Shoreline Variance, which
requires approval by both the City and Ecology. Shoreline modifications listed in
Table 21.50-2 as "prohibited" are not eligible for consideration as a Shoreline
Variance.
5. New projects, including the subdivision of land and related construction of single-
family residences, are prohibited when the use or development requires
structural flood hazard reduction or other structural stabilization measures within
the shoreline to support the proposed or future development.
6. When a proposal contains two or more use activities, including accessory uses,
the most restrictive use category shall apply to the entire proposal.
7. Structures, uses, and activities shall be designed and managed to minimize
blocking, reducing, or adversely interfering with the public's visual access to the
water and the shorelines from public lands which are within the shoreline
jurisdiction and excluding public roads.
8. Structures and sites shall be designed with landscaping, vegetated buffers,
exterior materials, and lighting that are aesthetically compatible with the shoreline
environment.
9. When a study is required to comply with SVMC 21.50, it shall be performed by
Qualified Professional registered in the State of Washington.
10. All clearing and grading activities shall comply with SVMC 24.50 Land Disturbing
Activities. Adherence to the following is required during project construction:
a. Materials adequate to immediately correct emergency erosion situations
shall be maintained on site;
b. All debris, overburden, and other waste materials from construction shall
be disposed of in such a manner so as to prevent their entry into a water
body. Such materials from construction shall not be stored or disposed of
on or adjacent to Shorelines of the State;
c. The shoreline buffer shall be clearly marked on the ground prior to and
during construction activities to avoid impacts to the buffer; and
d. Infrastructure used in, on, or over the water shall be constructed using
materials that do not contaminate the water or interfere with navigation.
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B. The City may consult with agencies with expertise or jurisdiction over the resources
during the review of any permit or process to assist with analysis and identification of
appropriate performance measures that adequately safeguard shoreline and critical
areas.
C. The Director may consult with a Qualified Professional to review a critical areas report
when City staff lack the resources or expertise to review these materials. The City may
require the Applicant to pay for or reimburse the City for the consultant fees.
21.50.190 Shoreline Uses Table
A. Uses and activities are categorized within each shoreline environment as allowed,
permitted, conditional use, or prohibited, as defined in this section. This priority system
determines the applicable permit or process, administrative requirements, and allows
activities that are compatible with each shoreline designation. Procedures and criteria
for obtaining a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit, Letter of Exemption,
Shoreline Conditional Use Permit, and Shoreline Variance are set forth in SVMC
21.50.040. These uses shall also meet the requirements of SVMC Title 19 Zoning
Regulations.
B. The following terms shall be used in conjunction with Shoreline Use and Modification
Tables provided in SVMC 21.50.190 and SVMC 21.50.200.
Allowed Use: These are uses that are exempt from the shoreline permit review process
and do not require submittal of a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit or
Letter of Exemption application. Projects or uses shall be reviewed to ensure
that all requirements contained in SVMC 21.50 are met. Building permit
applications or site plans are the general method of review.
Permitted Use: These are uses which are preferable and meet the policies of the
particular shoreline environment designation. They require submittal of a
Shoreline Substantial Development Permit or a Letter of Exemption application.
An exemption is subject to an administrative approval process; a Shoreline
Substantial Development Permit requires public notice, comment periods, and
filing with Ecology.
Conditional Use: A Shoreline Conditional Use Permit is intended to allow for flexibility
and the exercise of judgment in the application of regulations in a manner
consistent with the policies of the SMA and the SMP.
Prohibited: These are uses which are viewed as inconsistent with the definition, policies,
or intent of the shoreline environmental designation. For the purposes of the
SMP, these uses are considered inappropriate and are not authorized under any
permit or process.
Table 21.50-1 - Shoreline Uses, below, shall be used to determine the permit or process
required for specific shoreline uses and activities within the shoreline jurisdiction.
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Table 21.50-1: Shoreline Uses
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aci aci c c
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SHORELINE USES j > > a
Agricultural Activities
Aquaculture
Boating Facilities (Including
launches, ramps, public/commercial
docks, and private docks serving more
than four residences)
N/A P C
Commercial Use
Water-dependent P2 P2 C
Water-related and water-enjoyment P2 P2 P2 C
Non water-oriented P2,3
Forest Practices
Industrial Use
Water-dependent P C
Water-related and water-enjoyment P
Non water-oriented P3
In-stream Structures
As part of a fish habitat
enhancement project N/A P P P P
Other N/A P P P
Mining
Parking Facilities
As a primary use
As an accessory/secondary use P P P C
Recreational Use
Water-dependent P P P P P
Water-related and water-enjoyment P P P P P
Non water-oriented P P P C4 C
Trails and walkways P P P C5 P
Residential Use
Single-family A A A A
Single-family residential
accessory uses and structures A A A A
Multi-family P P P
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Private docks serving one to four
single-family residences N/A P P P
Accessory Dwelling Units P P P P
Transportation Facilities
New circulation routes related to
permitted shoreline activities P P C C
Expansion of existing
circulation systems P P P P
New, reconstructed, or maintenance of
bridges, trail, or rail crossings P P P P P
Public Facilities and Utilities
Public facilities C C C C
Utilities and utility crossings C C C C C
Routine maintenance of existing
utility corridor and infrastructure A6 A6 A6 P7 A6
KEY: A= Allowed P= Permitted C= Conditional Use Blank= Prohibited N/A= Not
Applicable
Notes:
For Boating Facilities within the aquatic environment, the adjacent upland environment as set
forth on the City Environment Designation Map shall govern (i.e., if the aquatic environment is
adjacent to Shoreline Residential - Waterfront designated shorelines, the use would be
permitted).
2 Commercial uses are allowed in the Shoreline Residential - Upland, Shoreline Residential -
Waterfront and Urban Conservancy Environments only if the underlying zoning of the property is
Mixed Use Center.
3 Permitted only if the applicable criteria in SVMC 21.50.320(6)(1) or 21.50.330(6)(1) are met.
4 Non water-oriented recreation uses are prohibited in Urban Conservation - High Quality
Shorelines except limited public uses that have minimal or low impact on shoreline ecological
functions, such as the Centennial Trail and appropriately-scaled day use areas which may be
allowed through a Conditional Use Permit.
5 Modifications, improvements, or additions to the Centennial Trail are permitted in the Urban
Conservancy - High Quality Environment.
6 A Letter of Exemption is required if the maintenance activity involves any ground disturbing
activity.
7A Letter of Exemption is required.
21.50.200 Shoreline Modification Activities Table
Table 21.50-2, Shoreline Modification Activities, below, shall be used to determine whether a
specific shoreline modification is allowed in a shoreline environment. Shoreline modifications
may be permitted, approved as a conditional use, or prohibited, pursuant to SVMC 21.50.190.
Shoreline modifications shall also meet the requirements of SVMC Title 19 Zoning Regulations.
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Table 21.50-2: Shoreline Modification Activities
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c c t 0 U C V
SHORELINE MODIFICATIONas
rzs co
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ACTIVITY co l u) 1 > m 1 a
Shoreline/Slope Stabilization
Structural, such as bulkheads P P
Nonstructural, such as soil
bioengineering P P P
Piers and Docks
Piers N/A P C
Viewing Platforms P P P
Docks N/A P C
Dredging and Fill
Dredging C C C C
Fill C C C C
Shoreline Habitat and Natural
Systems Enhancement Projects P P P P P
Groins and Weirs N/A C C C
KEY: P= Permitted C= Conditional Use Blank= Prohibited N/A= Not Applicable
1 For these uses within the aquatic environment, the adjacent upland environment as set forth
on the Environment Designation Map shall govern (i.e., if the aquatic environment is adjacent to
Shoreline Residential - Waterfront designated shorelines, "hard" shoreline stabilization
measures would be allowed by Shoreline Substantial Development Permit).
21.50.210 No Net Loss and Mitigation Sequencing
A. Applicability. This section applies to all shoreline activities, uses, development, and
modifications, including those that are exempt from a Shoreline Substantial
Development Permit.
B. Standards.
1. All projects shall result in no net loss of shoreline ecological functions. The
requirement for no net loss may be met through project design, construction, and
operations. Additionally, this standard may be achieved by following the
mitigation sequencing pursuant to SVMC 21.50.210(6)(4) and SVMC 21.50.260
Shoreline Vegetation Conservation. The City may condition project dimensions,
location of project components on the site, intensity of use, screening, parking
requirements, and setbacks, as deemed appropriate to achieve no net loss of
shoreline ecological function.
2. Required mitigation shall not exceed the level necessary to ensure that the
proposed use or development will ensure no net loss of shoreline ecological
functions.
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3. Mitigation sequencing pursuant to SVMC 21.50.210(6)(4) is required when
specified in these regulations or for projects that:
a. Involve shoreline modifications;
b. Request a buffer or setback reduction pursuant to SVMC 21.50.230
Shoreline Buffers and Building Setbacks;
c. Are located within a wetland or its buffer; or
d. Will have significant probable adverse environmental impacts that must
be avoided or mitigated.
4. Mitigation measures shall be applied in the following order:
a. Avoid the impact altogether by not taking a certain action or parts of an
action;
b. Minimize impacts by limiting the degree or magnitude of the action and its
implementation by using appropriate technology;
c. Rectify the impact by repairing, rehabilitating, or restoring the affected
environment;
d. Reduce or eliminate the impact over time by preservation and
maintenance operations;
e. Compensate for the impact by replacing, enhancing, or providing
substitute resources or environments; and
f. Monitor the impact and the compensation projects and take appropriate
corrective measures, as needed.
21.50.220 Height Limit Standards
A. Applicability. This section applies to all new or redeveloped primary and residential
accessory structures.
B. Standards.
1. The maximum height limit for all new or redeveloped primary structures shall be
35 feet.
2. The maximum height limit for single-family residential accessory or appurtenant
structures shall be 25 feet.
3. These height limit standards may be altered through a Shoreline Variance
pursuant to SVMC 21.50.140.
21.50.230 Shoreline Buffers and Building Setbacks
A. Applicability. This section applies to all new construction, new and expanded uses, and
modifications. Shoreline buffers are shown on the City Shoreline Buffer Map in
Appendix A-2 Shoreline Buffers.
B. Standards.
1. Unless otherwise specified in SVMC 21.50, buffers shall be maintained in
predominantly natural, undisturbed, undeveloped, and vegetated condition.
2. The shoreline buffer shall be clearly marked on the ground prior to and during
construction activities to avoid impacts to the buffer.
3. Shoreline buffers for new and expanded uses may be reduced up to 25 percent
by the Director if the buffer widths have not been reduced or modified by any
other prior action and one or more of the following conditions apply:
a. Adherence of the buffer width would not allow reasonable use;
b. The buffer contains variations in sensitivity to ecological impacts due to
existing physical characteristics; i.e. the buffer varies in slope, soils, or
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vegetation. This shall be supported by a Habitat Management Plan
developed in conformance with SVMC 21.50.540(E)(2); or
c. Where shoreline restoration is proposed consistent with the City's
Restoration Plan.
4. Building Setback from the shoreline buffer shall be as shown in Table 21.50-3:
Table 21.50-3 Buffer Building Setbacks
Environment Urban Urban Shoreline Shoreline
Conservancy Conservancy— Residential - Residential -
High Quality Upland Waterfront
Setback 10 foot 15 foot 0 foot 1 0 foot 1
1A 15-foot building setback from the shoreline buffer shall be required for any
subdivision, binding site plan, or planned residential development in the
Shoreline Residential — Upland and Shoreline Residential —Waterfront
designations.
5. Front, rear, and side setbacks and lot coverage shall conform to the SVMC Title
19, Zoning Regulations.
21.50.240 Flood Hazard Reduction
A. Applicability. This section applies to development proposals:
1. Intended to reduce flood damage or hazard;
2. To construct temporary or permanent shoreline modifications or structures within
the regulated floodplains or floodways; or
3. That may increase flood hazards.
B. Standards.
1. All proposals shall conform to SVMC 21.30 Floodplain Regulation, SVMC
21.50.340, In-stream Structures and SVMC 21.50.410 Shoreline Modifications.
2. The following uses and activities may be allowed within the floodplain or
floodway:
a. Actions or projects that protect or restore the ecosystem-wide processes
and/or ecological functions;
b. New bridges, utility lines, and other public utility and transportation
structures, with appropriate mitigation, where no other feasible alternative
exists;
c. Repair and maintenance of an existing legal structure, utility corridor, or
transportation structure, provided that such actions do not increase flood
hazards to other uses;
d. Modifications, expansions, or additions to an existing legal use; and
e. Measures to reduce shoreline erosion.
3. Natural in-stream features such as snags, uprooted trees, or stumps shall be left
in place unless an engineered assessment demonstrates that they are causing
bank erosion or higher flood stages.
21.50.250 Public Access
A. Applicability. This section applies to all new projects by public and private entities.
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B. Standards.
1. Public access shall be consistent with the City's SMP Public Access Plan.
2. Public access may only be required as a condition of approval of a Shoreline
Substantial Development Permit or Conditional Use Permit to the extent allowed
by law and in a manner consistent with the City's Public Access Plan, and only in
the following circumstances:
a. The use or development is a public project; or
b. The project is a private use or development and one of the following
conditions exists:
The project impacts, interferes with, blocks, discourages, or
eliminates existing access;
ii. The project increases or creates demand for public access that is
not met by existing opportunities or facilities; or
iii. The project impacts or interferes with public use of waters subject
to the Public Trust Doctrine.
3. Public access shall not be required for activities qualifying for a letter of
exemption or new single-family residential development of four or fewer units.
4. All developments, including shoreline permits or letter of exemption applications,
which require or propose public access shall include a narrative that identifies:
a. Impacts to existing access, including encroachment, increased traffic, and
added populations;
b. The access needs of the development consistent with those described for
similar projects in the Public Access Plan, Section Four; and
c. The proposed location, type, and size of the public access.
5. When public access is required pursuant to SVMC 21.50.250(B)(2)(b), the City
shall impose permit conditions requiring public access that are roughly
proportional to the impacts caused or the demand created by the proposed use
or development.
6. Prior to requiring public access as a condition of approval of any shoreline permit
or letter of exemption pursuant to SVMC 21.50.250(B)(2)(b), the Director shall
determine and make written findings of fact stating that the use or development
satisfies any of the conditions in SVMC 21.50.250(B)(2)(b) and that any public
access required is roughly proportional to the impacts caused or the demand
created by the proposed use or development.
7. When public access is required or proposed, the following shall apply:
a. Mitigation sequencing shall be required to mitigate adverse impacts
resulting from the public access.
b. Visual access to the shoreline may be established if any vegetation
removal is pursuant to SVMC 21.50.260 Shoreline Vegetation
Conservation.
c. Public access sites shall be connected to the nearest public street or
other public access point.
d. Future trails on private property, including trail extensions and new
access points, shall incorporate enhancement and restoration measures
and be contained within a recorded easement.
e. Required public access sites shall be fully developed and available for
public use at the time of occupancy or use of the project or activity.
f. Public and private entities may establish user regulations, including hours
of operation, usage by animals or motorized vehicles, and prohibited
activities, such as camping, open fires, or skateboarding. Such
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restrictions may be approved by the Director as part of the permit review
process.
g. Public access improvements shall include provisions for disabled and
physically impaired persons where reasonably feasible.
h. Signage associated with public access shall be pursuant to SVMC
21.50.380 Signs and Outdoor Lighting, and SVMC 22.110 Sign
Regulations.
21.50.260 Shoreline Vegetation Conservation
A. Applicability. Vegetation conservation measures are required for all projects that
propose vegetation removal.
B. Standards.
1. A vegetation management plan shall be submitted for projects that propose to
remove either of the following within the shoreline jurisdiction:
a. One or more mature native trees greater than 12 inches in diameter at
chest height; or
b. More than 10 square feet of native shrubs and/or native ground cover at
any one time by clearing, grading, cutting, burning, chemical means, or
other activities.
2. When required, a vegetation management plan shall contain the following:
a. A site plan showing:
The distribution of existing plant communities in the area proposed
for clearing and/or grading;
ii. Areas to be preserved;
iii. Areas to be cleared; and
iv. Trees to be removed.
b. A description of the vegetative condition of the site that addresses the
following:
Plant species;
ii. Plant density;
iii. Any natural or man-made disturbances;
iv. Overhanging vegetation;
v. The functions served by the existing plant community (e.g., fish
and wildlife habitat values, slope stabilization); and
vi. The presence and distribution of noxious weeds.
c. A landscape plan showing:
Proposed landscaping, including the species, distribution, and
density of plants; the plan should be pursuant to SVMC
21.50.260(B)(3)(b), if applicable; and
ii. Any pathways or non-vegetated portions, and the materials
proposed.
3. Projects that propose to remove native vegetation within a shoreline buffer shall
meet the following standards:
a. The Applicant must demonstrate to the Director's satisfaction that the
proposed vegetation removal is consistent with SVMC 21.50.210 No Net
Loss and Mitigation Sequencing, and that avoidance is not feasible;
b. Vegetation shall be replaced per the following:
1:1 area ratio for herbaceous vegetation;
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ii. 2:1 stem ratio for shrubs and saplings; and
iii. 3:1 ratio for trees greater than 12 inches diameter at breast height
or 2:1 ratio if tree stock is five years old or greater. For native
trees greater than 16 inches diameter at breast height,
replacement tree stock shall be at least five years old;
c. All removed native plants shall be replaced with native vegetation;
removed ornamental plants may be replaced with similar species;
d. Applicant shall submit a vegetation management plan consistent with
SVMC 21.50.260(6)(2) that demonstrates compliance with the standards
of SVMC 21.50.260(6)(3); and
e. Projects that propose a pathway or trail in the shoreline buffer shall meet
the additional following standards:
Pathways and trails that are roughly parallel to the OHWM may be
allowed if:
(1) It is a public non-motorized multi-use equestrian or
pedestrian/bike trail;
(2) It is located at the landward edge of the shoreline buffer
with the following exceptions:
(a) When physical constraints, public safety concerns,
or public ownership limitations merit otherwise; or
(b) When the trail will make use of an existing
constructed grade such as those formed by an
abandoned rail grade, road, or utility.
ii. Pathways, trails, and river crossings that are perpendicular to the
water, and lead to the OHWM, shall be sited in a location that has
the least impact to shoreline ecological functions with mitigation
sequencing pursuant to SVMC 21.50.210. Previously altered or
disturbed locations shall be preferred.
iii. All pathways and trails shall be located, constructed, and
maintained so as to avoid, to the maximum extent possible,
removal and other impacts to perennial native vegetation,
including trees, standing snags, forbs, grasses, and shrubs,
consistent with the vegetation management plan.
iv. Alternatives to impervious paving should be considered and are
encouraged.
v. Total trail width, inclusive of shoulders, shall be the minimum
width necessary to achieve the intended use and shall not exceed
14 feet.
vi. Disturbed areas (outside of the designated trail and trail
shoulders) shall be re-vegetated with native vegetation consistent
with the vegetation management plan.
vii. Public, non-motorized multi-use equestrian pedestrian/bike trails
shall only be allowed in the shoreline buffer for the Urban
Conservancy-High Quality environment designation to connect to
or from (in phases or otherwise) an existing regional multi-use
non-motorized trail and only pursuant to SVMC 21.50.260(6).
viii. Encroachments in the buffer allowed by the exceptions listed
above shall be the minimum necessary to provide for the
permitted use.
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4. A performance surety may be required as a condition of shoreline permit
approval to ensure compliance with the SMP. The performance surety shall be
substantially in the same form and for the same coverage as provided for in the
City's Street Standards as adopted or amended.
5. Projects that require a critical areas report pursuant to SVMC 21.50.490 shall
incorporate any specific vegetation conservation measures identified in the
critical areas reports for the identified critical areas. Any application of
pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, or other chemicals proposed in conjunction with
the vegetation removal or management activities shall be addressed by the
report.
C. Minor vegetation conservation activities allowed without a shoreline permit or letter of
exemption.
1. Pruning and thinning of trees or vegetation on public or private land for
maintenance, safety, forest health, and view protection if the criteria listed below
are met:
a. No native vegetation is removed, including thinning;
b. Pruning of native vegetation shall not exceed 30 percent of a tree's limbs.
Tree topping shall not occur;
c. Native shrubs shall not be pruned to a height less than six feet;
d. Pruning any vegetation waterward of the OHWM is prohibited; and
e. Pruning of any vegetation and thinning activities associated with non-
native plants shall ensure the continued survival of vegetation.
Whenever possible, pruning and thinning activities conducted to maintain or
create views shall be limited to areas dominated with non-native vegetation and
invasive species. Pruning and thinning on public land to establish a view for
adjacent properties shall be prohibited unless written approval from the
Washington State Parks Riverside Area Manager is given.
2. Pruning and thinning within a utility corridor by the utility service provider of both
native and non-native trees and vegetation shall be allowed when the following
criteria are met:
a. Reasonable measures to reduce the adverse effects of the activity are
implemented; and
b. No net loss of buffer functions and values occur.
3. Dead or hazardous trees within the shoreline buffer that pose a threat to public
safety or a risk of damage to private or public property may be removed if a letter
from a certified arborist or Qualified Professional is submitted that confirms the
tree is dead or is hazardous and includes:
a. Removal techniques;
b. Procedures for protecting the surrounding area; and
c. Replacement of native trees, if applicable. Where possible, hazard trees
within the shoreline buffer shall be turned into snags.
21.50.270 Water Quality, Stormwater, and Non-Point Pollution
A. Applicability. This section applies to all projects that add any pollution-generating
impervious surfaces. This standard supersedes the regulatory threshold specified in the
Spokane Regional Stormwater Manual, which is applicable outside the shoreline
jurisdiction.
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B. Regulations.
1. All activities shall comply with the SVMC 22.150 Stormwater Management
Regulations, the Environmental Protection Agency's Underground Injection
Control program, the Eastern Washington Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit
requirements, applicable total maximum daily loads laws and regulations, and
other water cleanup plans.
2. Use of chemicals for commercial or industrial activities shall be pursuant to
SVMC 21.50.530(C).
3. Herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers, and pesticides shall not be applied within 25
feet of a water body, except by a Qualified Professional in accordance with state
and federal laws.
21.50.280 Archaeological and Historic Resources
A. Applicability. This section applies to:
1. Projects with archaeological and historic resources on site that are either
recorded at the Washington State Department of Archeology and Historic
Preservation (DAHP), or Spokane County;
2. Projects where archaeological and historical resources have been inadvertently
uncovered; or
3. Permit applications that contain a ground-disturbing component.
B. Standards.
1. Archaeological sites are subject to chapter 27.44 RCW Indian Graves and
Records and chapter 27.53 RCW Archaeological Sites and Records.
Development or uses that may impact such sites shall comply with WAC 25-48
as well as the regulations of this section.
2. A cultural resources site survey or assessment prepared by a Qualified
Professional is required for all shoreline permit applications that contain a
ground-disturbing component if the proposal meets the criteria below, which may
be determined through review of Spokane County and/or DAHP resources:
a. The project is on property known to contain archaeological, historic, or
cultural resources; or
b. The project is in an area mapped as having the potential for the presence
of archaeological, historic, or cultural resources.
3. When required, the cultural resources site survey or assessment shall:
a. Use standard procedures and methods to assess the potential for
presence of archaeological, historic, or cultural resources that could be
impacted by the project;
b. Provide appropriate recommendations for protecting and preserving the
archaeological, historical, or cultural resources;
c. Make an inventory of buildings or structures over 50 years in age located
within the project area in a DAHP Historic Property Inventory Database
entry; and
d. Record archaeological sites located within the project area on DAHP
Archaeological Site Inventory Forms.
4. When required, the cultural resources site survey or assessment shall be
circulated to DAHP and affected tribe(s). The Director shall consider comments
from DAHP and affected tribe(s) prior to approval of the survey or assessment.
Based on the cultural resources site survey or assessment, the application may
be conditioned to ensure that such resources are protected.
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5. If archaeological, historic, or cultural resources are inadvertently discovered or
uncovered during excavation, the Applicant shall immediately stop work on that
portion of the project site and notify the City. The Applicant may be required to
prepare a cultural resources site survey or assessment pursuant to SVMC
21.50.280(6)(3), after coordinating with DAHP.
21.50.290 Gravel Pits
A. Applicability. This section applies to existing and active gravel pit operations including
but not limited to known gravel pits located at 2010 North Sullivan Road and 220 North
Thierman Road.
B. Standards. Active gravel pits are not regulated as Shorelines of the State until
reclamation is complete and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources
terminates the Surface Mine Reclamation Permit. Proposed subsequent use of mined
property shall be consistent with the provisions of the Urban Conservancy Environment
unless a different environmental designation is established through an amendment
pursuant to WAC 173-26-201.
21.50.300 Specific Shoreline Use Regulations
Applicability. The regulations in SVMC 21.50.300 through 21.50.450 apply to specific common
uses and types of development to the extent they occur within the shoreline jurisdiction.
21.50.310 Boating Facilities
A. Applicability. This section applies to new and existing boating facilities.
B. Standards.
1. Boating facilities shall:
a. Be allowed only for water-dependent uses or for public access;
b. Be limited to the minimum size and height necessary to achieve the
intended purpose of the facility; and
c. Incorporate measures for cleanup of accidental spills of contaminants.
2. Public boating facilities shall be located only at sites identified in the Public
Access Plan.
3. All new boating facilities shall incorporate public access when required by the
Public Access Plan and SVMC 21.50.250 herein.
4. New launch ramps shall be approved only if public access is provided to public
waters which are not adequately served by existing access facilities because of
location or capacity. Documentation of need shall be required from the Applicant
prior to approval pursuant to SVMC 21.50.250 Public Access.
5. Existing boating facilities may be maintained and repaired pursuant to SVMC
21.50, provided the size is not increased.
6. In addition to the regulations above, boating facilities shall comply with SVMC
21.50.320 Commercial Use, SMVC 21.50.360 Recreational Development and
Use, and SVMC 21.50.430 Piers and Docks, as applicable.
21.50.320 Commercial Use
A. Applicability. This section applies to all commercial uses.
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B. Standards.
1. New non water-oriented commercial uses shall be prohibited, except within the
Urban Conservancy Environment, where such uses may be permitted if:
a. The use is part of a mixed-use project that includes water-dependent
uses; and
b. Provides a significant public benefit, such as public access or ecological
restoration; or
The site is physically separated from the shoreline by another parcel or
public right-of-way.
2. New commercial uses shall comply with the following criteria:
a. Windows, breezeways, and common areas should be oriented towards
the shoreline or recreational amenities on the site;
b. Buildings should provide at least one main entry that orients toward the
shoreline, not including a service entry;
c. Architectural features that reduce scale shall be incorporated, such as
pitched roofs, offsets, angled facets, and recesses;
d. Building surfaces on or adjacent to the water shall employ materials that
minimize reflected light;
e. Building mechanical equipment, noise generating systems, vents, utility
cabinets, and small scale service elements shall be incorporated into
building architectural features, such as pitched roofs. Where it is not
possible to incorporate into architectural features, a landscaping screen
consistent with SVMC 22.70.030(C) shall be utilized;
f. Screening and buffering, or other visual screen consistent with the
building exterior material and colors, shall be provided that conceals view
of such equipment from the shoreline;
g. Commercial uses shall be screened from any adjacent residential uses by
providing a Type I-Full Screening Buffer pursuant to SVMC 22.70
Fencing, Screening, and Landscaping;
h. Landscaping within the shoreline setback area shall incorporate native
plant materials;
Loading docks and maintenance facilities shall be located away from the
shoreline to minimize visual, noise, or physical impacts on the site, street,
adjacent public open spaces, and adjacent properties; and
j. A site plan and landscaping plan shall be submitted showing all the
applicable items listed in SVMC 21.50.320(6)(2).
3. Commercial wireless communication facilities shall not be allowed within the
shoreline jurisdiction.
4. Home occupations shall be allowed within the Shoreline Residential - Upland and
Shoreline Residential - Waterfront designations pursuant to SVMC 19.40.140
Home Occupations.
21.50.330 Industrial Use
A. Applicability. This section applies to all new Industrial uses, including uses involved in
processing, manufacturing, assembly, and storage of finished or semi-finished goods
and food products.
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B. Standards.
1. New non water-oriented industrial uses shall be prohibited, except within the
Urban Conservancy Environment, where such uses may be permitted if the use
is part of a mixed-use project that includes water-dependent use and:
a. Provides a significant public benefit such as providing public access and
ecological restoration; or
b. The site is physically separated from the shoreline by another parcel or
public right-of-way.
2. Industrial development shall be located, designed, constructed, and operated to
avoid visual impacts to users of the Spokane River and Centennial Trail.
3. New industrial uses shall comply with the requirements of SVMC 21.50.320(6)(2)
and (3).
4. Noise associated with operations or equipment, including volume, repetitive
sound, or beat, shall be muffled or otherwise controlled so that it is not audible at
a distance over 30 feet from the landward boundary of a buffer.
21.50.340 In-Stream Structures
A. Applicability. This section applies to all projects proposing in-stream structures.
B. Standards.
1. In-stream structures shall conform with the requirements of the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers, WDFW, SVMC 21.50.240 Flood Hazard Reduction, SVMC
21.50.270 Water Quality, Stormwater and Non-Point Pollution, SVMC 21.50.410
General Regulations for Specific Shoreline Modifications, and any other
applicable federal, state, and local requirements.
2. In-stream structures shall provide for the protection and preservation of
ecosystem-wide processes, ecological functions, and cultural resources pursuant
to WAC 173-26-241(3)(g).
21.50.350 Parking Facilities
A. Applicability. This section applies to all new parking facilities.
B. Regulations.
1. A parking facility is permitted only if:
a. It directly serves a permitted shoreline use, including the Centennial Trail,
direct river access, and use areas; and
b. It is not the primary use; for example, it cannot be a stand-alone parking
facility.
2. Parking facilities serving individual buildings within the shoreline jurisdiction shall
be located:
a. Landward from the principal building being served; or
b. Within or beneath a structure.
3. Parking facilities shall be screened from the shoreline and less intense adjacent
land uses by providing a Type I - Full Screening Buffer pursuant to SVMC
22.70.030(B) Fencing, Screening, and Landscaping. A majority of the plant
materials proposed to meet the vegetation mix requirements shall be native
plants.
4. Parking shall be pursuant to SVMC 22.50 Off-Street Parking and Loading
Standards.
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5. Private projects, excluding single-family residential projects, which include public
access features shall dedicate parking stalls for public use that are in addition to
the number of parking stalls necessary to serve the proposed development
pursuant to SVMC 22.50 Off-Street Parking and Loading Standards:
a. Projects shall provide and dedicate additional parking for public use.
Applicants shall either use a presumptive standard of one additional
space for public parking for every 25 parking spaces required to serve the
proposed development or provide an assessment of public access need
which supports a different ratio. Any proposal to change from this
presumptive standard shall be approved by the Director, which approval
shall be based upon the unique factual circumstances of the development
and surrounding shoreline uses;
b. Spaces that are dedicated for public use shall be marked with appropriate
signage; and
c. Stalls dedicated for public use shall be near the public access point.
21.50.360 Recreational Development and Use
A. Applicability. This section applies to public and commercial shoreline recreational
facilities and uses, including but not limited to trails, viewing platforms, swimming areas,
boating facilities, docks, and piers.
B. Standards.
1. Non water-oriented recreation uses are prohibited in Urban Conservation - High
Quality Shorelines except limited public uses that have minimal or low impact on
shoreline ecological functions, such as the Centennial Trail and appropriately-
scaled day use areas.
2. Water-oriented recreational structures, limited to boat launches, ramps, public
docks or piers, commercial docks or piers, and private docks serving more than
four residences may be allowed waterward of the shoreline buffer and setback.
3. Water-oriented recreational structures, limited to access routes, boat and
equipment storage, viewing platforms, amenities such as benches, picnic tables
and similar facilities for water enjoyment uses, including those related to the
Centennial Trail shall be allowed within the shoreline buffer and setback area
provided:
a. Structures are located outside of an Urban Conservancy - High Quality
area;
b. Structures are not located in, on, or over water; and
c. Structure height limit is less than 15 feet.
4. All recreational development shall provide:
a. Non-motorized and pedestrian access to the shoreline pursuant to SVMC
21.50.250 Public Access;
b. Landscaping, fencing, or signage designed to prevent trespassing onto
adjacent properties;
c. Signs indicating public right of access to shoreline areas, installed and
maintained in conspicuous locations at the point of access and the
entrance; and
d. Buffering of such development and uses from incompatible adjacent land
uses pursuant to SVMC 22.70.030 Screening and Buffering, and Table
22.70-2 - Buffers Required by Type, as applicable.
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5. Recreational development and uses shall be pursuant to SVMC 21.50.310
Boating Facilities, SVMC 21.50.320 Commercial Use, and SVMC 21.50.430
Piers and Docks, as applicable.
21.50.370 Residential Development and Use
A. Applicability.
1. This section applies to single-family and multi-family structures, lots, and parcels.
2. Residential uses also include accessory uses and structures normally associated
with residential uses including, but not limited to, garages, sheds, decks,
driveways, fences, swimming pools, hot tubs, saunas, and tennis courts.
3. Clearing, grading, and utilities work associated with residential use are subject to
the regulations established for those activities.
B. Standards.
1. A Shoreline Substantial Development Permit is not required for construction by
an owner, lessee, or contract purchaser of a single-family residence, provided,
any such construction of a single-family residence and all accessory structures
meet the requirements of the SMP.
2. Residential development, including single-family structures, shall be required to
control erosion during construction. Removal of vegetation shall be minimized
and any areas disturbed shall be restored to prevent erosion and other impacts
to shoreline ecological functions pursuant to SVMC 21.50.260.
3. New residential development, including accessory uses and structures, shall be
sited in a manner to avoid the need for structural improvements that protect such
structures and uses from steep slopes and shorelines vulnerable to erosion,
including bluff walls and other stabilization structures.
4. New over-water residences and floating homes are prohibited.
5. New single-family residential accessory structures, excluding accessory dwelling
units, may be located waterward of the shoreline setback provided that all of the
following criteria are met:
a. The combined building footprint of all accessory structures does not
exceed 10 percent of the lot area;
b. Structures are located outside of critical areas, their associated buffers,
and the shoreline buffer; and
c. Structures are set no closer than five feet to any side or rear property line.
6. New attached or detached accessory dwelling units shall:
a. Be located landward of the shoreline buffer and outside of all critical
areas and their buffers;
b. Be pursuant to SVMC 19.40.100 Accessory Dwelling Unit; and
c. Obtain a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit.
7. New residential developments of four or more lots shall comply with the following
requirements:
a. The shoreline buffer shall be shown on the plat and permanently marked
on the ground with methods approved by the Director;
b. A site plan shall be provided in conjunction with the building permit
application showing the project elements described in SVMC
21.50.370(6)(3); and
c. Provide a project narrative describing how the project elements are being
met.
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8. Exterior lighting associated with single-family residences, such as pathway
lighting and lighting directed at landscaping features, is permitted within the
setback area so long as it is directed away from the shoreline.
9. Recorded plats shall include language that states that pursuant to SVMC
21.50.230, use and development within the defined shoreline buffer area is
prohibited. Title notices shall be recorded with each newly created parcel with
the restrictive language.
10. New fences shall meet the requirements of SVMC 22.70 Fencing, Screening and
Landscaping.
11. Fences are prohibited in the following areas:
a. Shoreline buffers;
b. Critical areas; and
c. Waterward of the OHWM.
21.50.380 Signs and Outdoor Lighting
A. Applicability. This section applies to any commercial, industrial, or advertising sign
directing attention to a business, professional service, community site, facility, or
entertainment conducted or sold, and all outdoor lighting, except those associated with
residential use and public street lighting.
B. Standards.
1. All signs shall comply with SVMC 22.110 Sign Regulations; variances from these
regulations may be granted pursuant to SVMC 21.50.140 Shoreline Variances.
2. Signage, including kiosks and directional signage to commercial uses or
recreation areas, related to, or along, the Centennial Trail, is allowed without a
Shoreline Substantial Development Permit provided:
a. Signage is consistent with the SMP, the City's Parks and Recreation
Master Plan, and any applicable master plan of Washington State Parks;
and
b. Signage proposed within a buffer area shall not:
Exceed 15 square feet in area;
ii. Exceed six feet in height;
iii. Be illuminated unless warranted by safety factors; and
iv. A building permit is obtained, if required.
3. Outdoor lighting shall comply with SVMC 22.60 Outdoor Lighting Standards.
4. New permanent outdoor lighting is prohibited within the shoreline buffer.
5. Pedestrian-oriented lighting along walkways and paths shall be allowed within
the shoreline setback area if:
a. The purpose of the light is safety;
b. Lighting structure height is not greater than 12 feet; and
c. Lighting fixtures are downward directed and fully shielded.
6. All outdoor lighting shall be oriented away from the shoreline and adjacent uses
using directional lighting or shielding.
21.50.390 Transportation Facilities
A. Applicability. This section applies to structures and developments that aid in land, air,
and water surface movement of people, goods, and services. They include roads and
highways, bridges, bikeways, heliports, rail, and other related facilities. Trails are
addressed in SVMC 21.50.250 Public Access.
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B. Standards.
1. New road and bridge construction and expansion of existing roads and bridges
shall only be located within the shoreline jurisdiction upon approval by the
Director when deemed necessary for the good of the community, or when
deemed related to, and necessary to support permitted shoreline activities.
2. When allowed, transportation facilities shall be:
a. Consistent with an approved private project or applicable City plans,
including the City's Transportation Improvement Plan, Public Access Plan
and Restoration Plan;
b. Located on the landward side of existing structures or uses; and
c. Be designed to minimize clearing, grading, and alteration of natural
features. Roadway and driveway alignment should follow natural
contours and minimize width.
3. To the extent consistent with federal jurisdiction, new rail lines and corridors or
expansion of existing rail lines and corridors shall be allowed only for the purpose
of connecting to existing rail lines or rights-of-way. New rail lines, including
bridges, shall be constructed within existing rail corridors or rights-of-way.
4. To the extent consistent with federal jurisdiction, new rail lines shall be
constructed so that they do not compromise the public's ability to access the
shoreline safely.
21.50.400 Public Facilities and Utilities
A. Applicability. This section applies to all public facilities and utilities. This section does
not apply to on-site utility features serving a primary use, such as water, sewer, or gas
lines to a development or residence. These utility features are considered "service
utilities" and shall be considered part of the primary use.
B. Regulations.
1. New public facilities and utilities may only be allowed pursuant to Shoreline
Conditional Use permit and if they meet the following conditions:
a. Address conflicts with present and planned land and shoreline uses
through site design or configuration, buffers, aesthetics, or other methods;
and
b. Identify the need to site within shoreline jurisdiction and why it is not
possible to locate outside of the shoreline jurisdiction.
2. New wastewater and stormwater outfalls shall not be allowed.
3. Routine maintenance, replacement, and minor upgrades of existing utilities shall
be allowed; provided that if the activity involves ground disturbance or is located
in the Urban Conservancy - High Quality Environment, then such maintenance,
replacement, and minor upgrades shall only be allowed by Letter of Exemption.
If existing high-quality vegetated areas, as noted in the Shoreline Inventory and
Analysis, are disturbed by maintenance activities in Urban Conservancy - High
Quality designated shorelines, mitigation pursuant to SVMC 21.50.210 No Net
Loss and Mitigation Sequencing, shall be required.
4. Transmission facilities for the conveyance of services, such as power lines,
cables, and pipelines, should be located outside of the shoreline jurisdiction.
5. New utility corridors shall be prohibited within the Urban Conservation — High
Quality Environment.
6. New over-water utility crossings are allowed within existing utility corridors.
7. New or expanded service utilities shall:
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a. Be located underground, unless placement underground results in more
damage to the shoreline area;
b. Utilize low impact, low profile design, and construction methods; and
c. Restore any areas disturbed to pre-project configurations, replant with
native species, and maintain until the newly planted area is established.
8. Stormwater pipe systems shall not be allowed within the shoreline buffer.
21.50.410 General Regulations for Specific Shoreline Modifications
A. Applicability. SVMC 21.50.410 through 21.50.450 apply to all shoreline modifications.
Shoreline modification activities are structures, including in-stream structures, or actions
that modify the physical configuration or qualities of the shoreline area.
B. General shoreline modification standards.
1. All shoreline modification applications shall also comply with:
a. SVMC 21.30 Floodplain Regulations;
b. SVMC 24.50 Land Disturbing Activities; and
c. Integrated Streambank Protection Guidelines (WDFW, Ecology and
Transportation, 2003 as adopted or amended).
2. All shoreline modification activities shall ensure that the no net loss of ecological
function standard is met.
3. Structural shoreline modifications within the regulated floodplain, geologically
hazardous areas, and in-stream shall only be allowed where it can be
demonstrated that nonstructural measures are not feasible or the proposed
activities are necessary to:
a. Support or protect a legally existing shoreline use or primary structure
that is in danger of loss or substantial damage;
b. Reconfigure the shoreline or channel bed for an allowed water-dependent
use; or
c. Provide for shoreline mitigation or enhancement purposes.
4. All shoreline modifications within the regulated floodplain and in-stream, with the
exception of docks proposed on the Spokane River that are located west of the
City of Millwood, shall provide the following:
a. Site suitability analysis that justifies the proposed structure;
b. A Habitat Management Plan prepared by a Qualified Professional that
describes:
The anticipated effects of the project on fish and wildlife habitat
and migration areas;
ii. Provisions for protecting in-stream resources during construction
and operation; and
iii. Measures to compensate for impacts to resources that cannot be
avoided.
c. An engineering analysis which evaluates and addresses:
The stability of the structure for the required design frequency;
ii. Changes in base flood elevation, floodplain width, and flow
velocity;
iii. The potential for blocking or redirecting the flow which could lead
to erosion of other shoreline properties or create an adverse
impact to shoreline resources and uses;
iv. Methods for maintaining the natural transport of sediment and
bedload materials;
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v. Protection of water quality, public access, and recreation; and
vi. Maintenance requirements.
21.50.420 Shoreline/Slope Stabilization
A. Applicability. This section applies to shoreline modification activities for shoreline and
slope stabilization projects, including structural and nonstructural measures.
B. Standards.
1. Nonstructural measures are the preferred method for slope and shoreline
stabilization.
2. Nonstructural measures may include building setbacks, relocation of the
structure to be protected, groundwater management, and planning and
regulatory measures to avoid the need for structural stabilization.
3. Structural stabilization measures may include hard surfaces such as concrete
bulkheads or less rigid materials, such as vegetation, biotechnical vegetation
measures, and riprap-type stabilization.
4. New structural shoreline modifications require a Shoreline Substantial
Development Permit.
5. New structural stabilization measures may be allowed under the following
circumstances:
a. To protect existing primary structures, public facilities and utilities, and the
Centennial Trail. Prior to approval, a geotechnical investigation shall:
Demonstrate that the structure is in danger from shoreline erosion
by currents or waves; and
ii. Evaluate on-site drainage and address drainage problems away
from the shoreline.
b. To protect new non water-dependent uses from erosion, when all of the
following apply:
The erosion is not being caused by upland conditions;
ii. Nonstructural measures are neither feasible nor sufficient;
iii. An engineering or scientific analysis demonstrates that damage is
caused by natural processes; and
iv. The stabilization structure shall incorporate native vegetation and
comply with the mitigation sequencing in SVMC 21.50.210 No Net
Loss and Mitigation Sequencing.
c. To protect water-dependent development from erosion when all of the
following apply:
The erosion is not being caused by upland conditions;
ii. Nonstructural measures are neither feasible nor sufficient; and
iii. The need to protect primary structures from damage due to
erosion is demonstrated through a geotechnical report.
d. To protect restoration and remediation projects when all of the following
apply:
The project is conducted pursuant to chapter 70.105D RCW
Model Toxics Control Act; and
ii. Nonstructural measures are neither feasible nor sufficient.
6. Unless otherwise exempt from shoreline permit requirements, replacement of an
existing shoreline stabilization structure may be approved with a Shoreline
Substantial Development Permit, provided the structure remains in the same
location and the outer dimension changes by 10 percent or less. However, a
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Shoreline Conditional Use Permit shall be required if existing shoreline
stabilization measures are relocated or the outer dimension changes by more
than 10 percent.
7. All new or replaced structural shoreline stabilization measures shall provide:
a. Design plans showing the limits of construction, access to the
construction area, details, and cross sections of the proposed stabilization
measure, erosion and sediment controls, and re-vegetation of the project
area; and
b. An engineered report that addresses the purpose of the repair,
engineering assumption, and engineering calculations to size the
stabilization measure.
8. A replacement structure shall not encroach waterward of the OHWM, unless all
of the following apply:
a. For residences occupied or constructed prior to January 1, 1992;
b. There are overriding safety or environmental concerns;
c. The replacement structure shall abut the existing shoreline stabilization
structure; and
d. The Department of Natural Resources has approved, if applicable, the
proposed project if it is on state-owned aquatic lands.
21.50.430 Piers and Docks
A. Applicability. This section applies to the construction or expansion of piers and docks
constructed waterward of the OHWM.
B. Standards.
1. Piers and docks designed for pleasure craft only, and for the private
noncommercial use of the owner, lessee, or contract purchaser of single and
multi-family residences, shall require a Letter of Exemption. Any other dock or
pier permitted under the SMP requires a Shoreline Substantial Development
Permit.
2. Piers and docks serving more than four residences and public or commercial
piers and docks shall comply with SVMC 21.50.310 Boating Facilities. Public or
commercial piers and docks shall comply with SVMC 21.50.360 Recreational
Development and Uses.
3. New piers and docks shall only be allowed for water-dependent uses or public
access. A dock associated with a single-family residence and designed and
intended as a facility for access to watercraft is a water-dependent use.
4. New piers and docks shall be the minimum size necessary based upon a needs
analysis provided by the Applicant. However, the size shall not exceed 55 feet in
length measured perpendicularly from the OHWM. Total deck area shall not
exceed 320 square feet.
5. The City may require modifications to the configuration of piers and docks to
protect navigation, public use, or ecological functions.
6. Wood treated with toxic compounds shall not be used for decking or for in-water
components.
7. Existing legally established docks, piers, or viewing platforms may be repaired or
replaced in accordance with the regulations of the SMP, provided the size of the
existing structure is not increased.
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8. Piers and docks proposed on the Spokane River and located east of the City of
Millwood shall comply with SVMC 21.50.410(6)(4) and the following additional
criteria:
a. The site suitability analysis shall demonstrate that:
The river conditions in the proposed location of the dock, including
depth and flow conditions, will accommodate the proposed dock
and its use; and
ii. Any design to address river conditions will not interfere with or
adversely affect navigability.
b. The Habitat Management Plan for any such docks shall demonstrate that
the proposed dock will not result in a net loss of ecological functions, and
shall include an analysis of the cumulative impact of additional requests
for like actions in the area.
9. A new pier or dock accessory to residential development within the shoreline
located east of the City of Millwood, and west of the Centennial Trail Pedestrian
Bridge, shall provide joint use or community dock facilities, when feasible, rather
than allowing individual docks for each residence. Application materials shall
include documentation of the applicant's efforts to explore feasibility of and
interest in a joint use dock with owners of any residential lots immediately
adjacent to the applicant's sites. Such documentation may include copies of
certified letters sent to owners of the immediately adjacent properties listed on
title. Any proposal for a joint use dock shall include in the application materials a
legally enforceable joint use agreement or other legal instrument, notice of which
must be recorded against title of the properties sharing the dock prior to dock
construction. The joint use agreement shall, at a minimum, address the
following:
a. Apportionment of construction and maintenance expenses;
b. Easements and liability agreements; and
c. Use restrictions.
21.50.440 Dredging and Fill
A. Applicability. This section applies to shoreline modification activities for projects or uses
proposing dredging, dredge material disposal, or fill waterward of the OHWM.
B. Regulations.
1. Dredging and dredge material disposal is prohibited unless associated with a
comprehensive flood management solution, an environmental cleanup plan, a
habitat restoration, fish enhancement project, or when considered suitable under,
and conducted in accordance with, the Dredged Material Management Program
of the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. These projects
require a Shoreline Conditional Use Permit.
2. Fill shall be allowed only when necessary to support the following uses (a
Shoreline Conditional Use Permit is required unless stated otherwise):
a. Water-dependent uses;
b. Public access;
c. Cleanup and disposal of contaminated sediments as part of an
interagency environmental cleanup plan; these proposals may be exempt
from a shoreline permit of any type by the Model Toxics Control Act;
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d. Expansion or alteration of transportation facilities. These proposals shall
also demonstrate that alternatives to fill are not feasible and require a
Shoreline Substantial Development Permit;
e. A mitigation action; and
f. An environmental restoration or enhancement project.
21.50.450 Shoreline Habitat and Natural Systems Enhancement Projects
A. Applicability. This section applies to all shoreline habitat and natural system
enhancement projects.
B. Standards.
1. Shoreline habitat and natural systems enhancement projects are encouraged.
These projects shall:
a. Obtain a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit or a Letter of
Exemption;
b. Demonstrate that the main project purpose is enhancing or restoring the
shoreline natural character and ecological functions by establishing the
restoration needs and priorities; and
c. Implement the restoration plan developed pursuant to WAC 173-26-
201(2)(f) and with applicable federal and state permit provisions.
4.2 Shoreline Critical Areas Regulations
21.50.460 General - Shoreline Critical Areas Regulations - Applicability
A. SVMC 21.50.460 through 21.50.560 apply to critical areas and their buffers that are
completely within the shoreline jurisdiction as well as critical areas and their buffers
located within, but extending beyond the mapped shoreline jurisdiction boundary.
Regulated critical areas include: wetlands, Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas (CARAs),
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas (FWHCAs), geologically hazardous areas,
and frequently flooded areas, pursuant to WAC 173-26-221(2) and (3), and WAC 365-
196-485.
B. This section applies to all uses, activities, and structures within the shoreline jurisdiction
of the City, whether or not a shoreline permit or other authorization is required. No
person, company, agency, or other entity shall alter a critical area or its associated buffer
within the shoreline jurisdiction except as consistent with the purposes and requirements
of the SMP.
21.50.470 Maps and Inventories
A. The approximate location and extent of known critical areas are depicted on the Critical
Areas and Priority Habitats Map updated and maintained by the Community
Development Department. The Critical Areas and Priority Habitats Map is a reference
tool, not an official designation or delineation. The exact location of a critical area
boundary shall be determined through field investigation by a Qualified Professional.
B. In addition to the Critical Areas and Priority Habitats Map, City staff may review
additional reference materials to determine whether a proposed development has the
potential to affect a critical area within the shoreline jurisdiction. Reference materials
may include, but are not limited to the following as adopted or amended:
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1. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Soil Survey for Spokane
County, Washington, 2012;
2. USGS 7.5 Minute Series Digital Elevation Model;
3. FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps for Spokane County, Washington and
Incorporated Areas, July 6, 2010;
4. USFWS National Wetlands Inventory;
5. Aerial photos;
6. WDFW Priority Habitats and Species and Wildlife Heritage Maps and Data; and
7. City critical area designation maps.
21.50.480 Exemptions from Critical Area Review and Reporting Requirements
A. Activities exempt from critical area review and reporting requirements shall ensure no
net loss of shoreline ecological functions pursuant to SVMC 21.50.210. Exempt
activities shall be conducted consistent with performance standards identified in SVMC
21.50.180 through 21.50.450, including mitigation sequencing.
B. Any incidental damage to or alteration of a critical area or their buffers resulting from
exempt activities shall be restored, rehabilitated, or replaced at the expense of the
responsible party within one growing season.
C. The following activities are exempt from critical area review and reporting requirements:
1. Conservation or enhancement of native vegetation.
2. Outdoor recreational activities which do not involve disturbance of the resource
or site area, including fishing, hunting, bird watching, hiking, horseback riding,
bicycling, and natural trail use.
3. Education, scientific research, and surveying.
4. Normal and routine maintenance and repair of:
a. Legally-constructed existing irrigation and drainage ditches, utility lines
and right-of-way, and appurtenances;
b. Facilities within an existing right-of-way and existing serviceable
structures or improved areas, not including expansion, change in
character or scope, or construction of a maintenance road. The
exemption includes the necessary vegetation management that keeps the
existing right-of-way clear from hazard trees; and
c. State or City parks, including noxious weed control and removal of hazard
trees where the potential for harm to humans exists.
5. Emergency construction necessary to protect property from damage by the
elements.
6. Routine maintenance, repair, and minor modifications (such as construction of a
balcony or second story) of existing structures where the modification does not
extend the structure further into or adversely impact the functions of the critical
area.
7. In Category III or IV wetlands only, stormwater dispersion outfalls and bioinfiltration
swales located within the outer 25 percent of the buffer provided that no other
location is feasible.
21.50.490 Critical Area Review
A. All clearing, uses, modifications, or development activities within a shoreline critical area
or its buffer shall be subject to review under SVMC 21.50 unless specifically exempted
under SVMC 21.50.480.
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B. Applicant shall identify in the application materials the presence of any known or
suspected critical areas on or within 200 feet of the property line.
C. If the proposed project is within or adjacent to a critical area, or is likely to create a net
loss of shoreline ecological functions necessary to sustain a critical area, the City shall:
1. Require and review a critical area report for each applicable critical area; and
2. Determine if the proposed project adequately addresses and mitigates impacts to
the critical area and is consistent with the requirements of the SMP.
21.50.500 Critical Area Report Requirements for all Critical Areas
A. When required by SVMC 21.50.490(C), the Applicant shall submit a critical area report
subject to the requirements of this section and any additional reporting requirements for
each critical area, as applicable.
B. Critical area reports for two or more types of critical areas shall meet the report
requirements for each relevant type of critical area.
C. All critical area assessments, investigations, and reports shall be completed by a
Qualified Professional.
D. At a minimum, all critical area reports shall contain the following:
1. The name and contact information of the Applicant, a description of the proposal,
and identification of the permit(s) requested;
2. The dates, names, and qualifications of the persons preparing the report and
documentation of any fieldwork performed on the site;
3. A statement from the Qualified Professional certifying that the report meets the
critical area requirements;
4. A description of the nature, density, and intensity of the proposed use or activity
in sufficient detail to allow analysis of such proposal upon identified critical area;
5. List of all references used and all assumptions made and relied upon;
6. A scaled site plan showing:
a. Critical areas and their buffers;
b. Ordinary high water mark;
c. Proposed and existing structures and related infrastructure;
d. Clearing and grading limits;
e. Impervious surfaces;
f. Location of temporary and/or permanent construction signage and
fencing to protect critical areas and their buffers;
g. Topographic contours at two foot intervals;
h. Fill and material storage locations;
Proposed and existing drainage facilities and stormwater flow arrows; and
j. Title, date, scale, north arrow, and legend;
7. Identification and characterization of all critical areas, water bodies, and critical
areas associated with buffers located on site, adjacent to, and within 200 feet of
proposed project areas. If buffers for two contiguous critical areas overlap (such
as buffers for a stream and a wetland), the wider buffer shall apply;
8. A mitigation plan which contains a description of the application of mitigation
sequencing and offsetting of impacts pursuant to SVMC 21.50.210 No Net Loss
and Mitigation Sequencing;
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9. Erosion and sediment control plan and drainage plan, as applicable for
conformance with SVMC 24.50;
10. Cost estimate for required mitigation when a financial surety is required pursuant
to SVMC 21.50.510;
11. A discussion of the performance standards applicable to the critical area and
proposed activity; and
12. Monitoring plan pursuant to SVMC 21.50.510(D) when mitigation is required.
E. The Director may modify the required contents or the scope of the required critical area
report to adequately evaluate the potential impacts and required mitigation. This may
include requiring more or less information and addressing only that part of a site affected
by a development proposal.
21.50.510 Mitigation
A. Applicants shall follow the mitigation sequencing put forth in SVMC 21.50.210 No Net
Loss Mitigation and Sequencing.
B. All impacts to critical areas and their buffers likely to result in a net loss of shoreline
ecological functions necessary to sustain the critical area shall be mitigated consistent
with appropriate state and federal guidelines.
C. Unless specifically addressed in specific critical area sections, compensatory mitigation
may be provided by any of the following means, in order of preference:
1. Except as provided in SVMC 21.50.510(C)(2)(a), adverse critical area impacts
shall be mitigated on or contiguous to the development site through resource
expansion, enhancement, protection, or restoration.
2. Off-site mitigation.
a. Off-site mitigation may be allowed if an Applicant demonstrates that
mitigation on or contiguous to the development proposal site cannot be
achieved and that off-site mitigation will achieve equivalent or greater
ecological functions.
b. When off-site mitigation is authorized, priority shall be given to the
following locations within the same drainage sub-basin as the project site:
Mitigation banking sites and resource mitigation reserves.
ii. Private mitigation sites that are established in compliance with the
requirements of SVMC 21.50.510(C)(2) and approved by the
Director.
iii. Offsite mitigation consistent with Selecting Wetland Mitigation
Sites Using a Watershed Approach (Eastern Washington)
(Publication #10-06-07, Olympia, WA, November 2010 as adopted
or amended).
c. The Director shall maintain a list of known sites available for use for off-
site mitigation projects.
3. Title notices shall be recorded against the affected parcels for on-site mitigation,
and easements shall be recorded for off-site mitigation, to avoid impacts from
future development or alteration to the function of the mitigation. The mitigation
site shall be permanently preserved.
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D. Monitoring.
1. The Applicant shall monitor the performance of any required mitigation and
submit performance monitoring reports, as specified in the applicable permit
conditions.
2. When required, the monitoring plan shall:
a. Demonstrate compliance with the provisions of the SMP and specific
permits and approvals;
b. Describe the objectives and methods for monitoring and quantifying;
c. Provide results with an estimate of statistical precision;
d. Identify the length of monitoring and reporting requirements;
e. Recommend management actions based upon the monitoring results;
and
f. Address the length of the mitigation consistent with the following:
Mitigation monitoring shall be required for a minimum of two years
for temporary impact restoration and up to 10 years for
compensatory mitigation; and
ii. If the mitigation objectives are not obtained within the initial
monitoring period, the Applicant shall remain responsible for
restoration of the natural values and functions until the mitigation
goals agreed to in the mitigation plan are achieved.
E. Sureties.
1. Performance and maintenance sureties shall be required from all private persons
and entities required to provide mitigation and a maintenance plan.
2. The performance surety shall be in substantially the same form as provided for in
the City's Street Standards as adopted or amended.
3. A performance surety shall be submitted prior to issuance of a Shoreline
Substantial Development, Conditional Use Permit, or Grading Permit. The surety
shall include costs to cover for construction and vegetation, annual maintenance
for a five-year period, and a 25 percent contingency fee.
4. The performance surety shall be released when the following conditions have
been met:
a. The installation of the required mitigation is approved by the City; and
b. The Applicant has submitted a warranty surety pursuant to SVMC
21.50.510(E)(5).
5. All projects with required mitigation shall submit a warranty surety to ensure the
success of the mitigation project before certificate of occupancy, final plat
approval, or as required by the City. The warranty surety shall be for 40 percent
of the total mitigation construction and planting costs and annual maintenance/
monitoring for five years, including but not limited to: costs for the maintenance
and replacement of dead or dying plant materials; failures due to site preparation,
plant materials, construction materials; installation oversight, monitoring,
reporting, and contingency actions expected through the end of the required
monitoring period.
6. The warranty surety shall remain in effect for five years from the release of the
performance surety or a timeframe as otherwise determined by the Director.
The Applicant shall have a Qualified Professional inspect the mitigation site
within 30 days of the expiration of the warranty. Any deficiencies noted shall be
repaired prior to the release of the surety. If the inspection is not conducted
and/or the deficiencies are not repaired, the warranty surety shall be renewed by
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the Applicant until all deficiencies are corrected. The City shall conduct an
inspection prior to releasing the warranty surety.
7. If any deficiencies identified while the warranty surety is in effect are not
corrected in the time frame specified by the Director, the City may choose to
conduct the necessary repairs. The City shall then either invoice the Applicant or
collect from the surety for all costs for the related work, plus a $500
administrative fee.
F. The Director may approve alternative mitigation provided such mitigation is based on the
most current, accurate, and complete scientific or technical information available and
provides an equivalent or better level of protection of shoreline ecological functions than
would be provided by the strict application of the SVMC 21.50. The Director shall
consider the following for approval of an alternative mitigation proposal:
1. The Applicant proposes creating or enhancing a larger system of natural areas
and open space in lieu of preserving many individual habitat areas.
2. There is clear potential for success of the proposed mitigation at the proposed
site.
3. The approved plan contains clear and measurable standards for achieving
compliance with the specific provisions of the plan.
21.50.520 Wetlands - Shoreline Critical Area Regulations
A. Applicability. This section applies to all uses, activities, and structures within or adjacent
to wetlands, unless specifically exempted by SVMC 21.50.480.
B. Designation, delineation, and classification.
1. Wetlands are those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground
water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal
circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in
saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include, but are not limited to,
swamps, marshes, bogs, ponds, and similar areas. Wetlands do not include
those artificial wetlands intentionally created from non-wetland sites, including,
but not limited to, irrigation and drainage ditches, grass-lined swales, canals,
detention facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, and landscape amenities, or
those wetlands created after July 1, 1990 that were unintentionally created as a
result of the construction or a road, street, or highway. Wetlands may include
those artificial wetlands intentionally created from non-wetland areas to mitigate
the conversion of wetlands.
2. Identification of wetlands and delineation of their boundaries shall be determined
through a field investigation by a Qualified Professional in accordance with the
1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual and the Regional
Supplement to The Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West
Region (September 2008). Wetland delineations are valid for five years, after
which the City shall determine whether a revision or additional assessment is
necessary.
3. Classification. Wetlands shall be rated by a Qualified Professional according to
the Ecology wetland rating system as set forth in the Washington State Wetland
Rating System for Eastern Washington (Ecology Publication #04-06-015,
November 2010 as adopted or amended). The wetland categories are generally
defined as follows:
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a. Category I (scores of 70 points or more): Wetlands that perform many
functions very well. These wetlands are those that:
Represent a unique or rare wetland type;
ii. Are more sensitive to disturbance than most wetlands;
iii. Are relatively undisturbed and contain ecological attributes that
are impossible to replace within a human lifetime; or
iv. Provide a high level of function.
b. Category II (scores between 51-69 points): Forested wetlands in the
floodplains of rivers or wetlands that perform functions well.
c. Category III (scores between 30-50 points): Wetlands that have a
moderate level of functions. These wetlands have been disturbed in
some way and are often less diverse or more isolated from other natural
resources in the landscape than Category II wetlands.
d. Category IV (scores fewer than 30 points): These wetlands have the
lowest level of functions and are often heavily disturbed but have
important functions that need to be protected.
4. Wetland rating categories shall not change due to any illegal modifications.
C. Wetland buffers.
1. Applicability. These buffer provisions apply to all wetlands that:
a. Are not associated with riparian areas or buffers;
b. Do not contain habitat identified as essential for local populations of
priority species identified by WDFW or Natural Heritage plant species
identified by the WDNR;
c. Are not a vernal pool;
d. Are not an alkali wetland; and
e. Do not contain aspen stands.
2. Except as otherwise specified or allowed in SVMC 21.50.520(C)(1), wetland
buffers shall be retained in an undisturbed or enhanced condition.
3. Buffer widths.
a. All buffers widths shall be measured perpendicularly from the wetland
boundary as surveyed in the field.
b. The total buffer width shall be calculated by adding the standard and the
additional buffer widths together.
c. The standard buffer widths in Table 21.50 - 4 are based on the category
of wetland. In order to qualify for the standard buffer widths in Table 1,
the measures in Table 21.50 - 5 shall be implemented, where applicable,
to minimize the impacts of the adjacent land uses on the wetland(s).
d. Additional buffer widths listed in Table 1 shall be added to the standard
buffer widths based on the habitat score for the wetland.
Table 21.50-4: Wetland Buffer Requirements
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Additional Additional Additional
Wetland Standard Buffer Buffer Width if Buffer Width if Buffer Width if
Category Width Wetland Scores Wetland Scores Wetland Scores
21-25 Habitat 26-29 Habitat >30 Habitat
Points Points Points
Category I 100 feet Add 15 feet Add 45 feet Add 75 feet
Category II 75 feet Add 15 feet Add 45 feet Add 75 feet
Category III 60 feet Add 30 feet Add 60 feet N/A
Category IV 40 feet N/A N/A N/A
4. Increased buffer widths.
a. If measures listed in Table 21.50-5 are not implemented, then the
standard buffer widths in Table 21.50-4 shall be increased by 33 percent.
b. Buffer widths may be increased on a case-by-case basis when the
wetland is used by a plant or animal species listed by the federal
government or the state as endangered, threatened, candidate, sensitive,
monitored, or documented priority species or habitats, or essential or
outstanding habitat for those species or has unusual nesting or resting
sites. The buffer increase should be determined by the Qualified
Professional in the critical areas report.
Table 21.50-5: Required Measures to Minimize Impacts to Wetlands
Disturbance Required Measures to Minimize Impacts
Lights • Direct lights away from wetland
Noise • Locate activity that generates noise away from
wetland
• If warranted, enhance existing buffer with native
vegetation plantings adjacent to noise source
• For activities that generate relatively continuous,
potentially disruptive noise, such as certain heavy
industry or mining, establish an additional 10 foot
heavily vegetated buffer strip immediately adjacent
tri the nutAr wAtlanrl hi ffAr
Chemical Use • Establish covenants limiting use of pesticides within
150 feet of wetland
• Apply integrated pest management
Stormwater runoff • Route all untreated runoff away from wetland while
ensuring wetland is not dewatered
• Retrofit substandard stormwater facilities
• Prevent channelized flow that directly enters the
buffer
• Infiltrate or treat, detain, and disperse into buffer
new runoff from impervious surfaces and new lawns
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Disturbance Required Measures to Minimize Impacts
Pets and human disturbance • Use privacy fencing or plant dense, thorny
vegetation to delineate buffer edge and to
discourage disturbance using vegetation appropriate
for this area
Dust • Use best management practices to control dust
Disruption of corridors or • Maintain connections to off-site areas that are
connections undisturbed
Vegetation alteration • Protect and maintain native plant communities in
buffers
5. Buffer averaging.
a. Buffer averaging to improve wetland protection may be allowed when all
of the following conditions are met:
The wetland has significant differences in characteristics that
affect its habitat functions and the buffer is increased adjacent to
the higher functioning area of habitat or more sensitive portion of
the wetland and decreased adjacent to the lower functioning or
less sensitive portion;
ii. The total area of the buffer after averaging is equal to the area
required without averaging; and
iii. The buffer at its narrowest point is not less than either 75 percent
of the required width or 75 feet for Category I and II, 50 feet for
Category III and 30 feet for Category IV, whichever is greater.
b. Buffer averaging to allow reasonable use of a parcel may be allowed
when all of the following are met:
There are no feasible alternatives to the site design that could be
accomplished without buffer averaging;
ii. The averaged buffer will not result in degradation of the wetland's
functions and values as demonstrated by a critical areas report;
iii. The total buffer area after averaging is equal or greater to the area
required without averaging; and
iv. The buffer at its narrowest point is not less than either 75 percent
of the required width or 75 feet for Category I and II, 50 feet for
Category III and 30 feet for Category IV, whichever is greater.
6. Signs and fencing.
a. Temporary.
The outer perimeter of wetland buffers and the clearing limits shall
be signed and fenced to ensure that no unauthorized intrusion will
occur during construction.
ii. Temporary signs and fencing shall be placed prior to beginning
permitted activities and maintained throughout construction.
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b. Permanent.
The Director, at his/her sole discretion, may require installation of
permanent signs and/or fencing along the boundary of a wetland
or buffer.
ii. Permanent signs shall be made of an enamel-coated metal face
and attached to a metal post or another non-treated material of
equal durability. Signs, if required by the Director, shall be posted
at an interval not less than one per lot, and which shall be
maintained in perpetuity by the property owner. The obligation to
maintain permanent signs shall be recorded against the property
in a form acceptable to the City.
iii. The signs shall be worded as follows or with alternative language
approved by the Director:
Protected Wetland Area
Do Not Disturb
Contact the City of Spokane Valley
Community Development Department
Regarding Uses, Restrictions, and Opportunities for Stewardship
iv. Permanent fence shall be installed and maintained around the
wetland buffer when domestic grazing animals are present or may
be introduced on site.
v. Fencing shall be constructed and maintained in a manner that
minimizes impacts to the wetland and associated habitat and
designed so as to not interfere with species migration, including
fish runs.
D. Mitigation.
1. Mitigation ratios.
a. Impacts resulting from alteration to wetlands shall be mitigated using the
ratios specified in Table 21.50-6 below:
Table 21.50-6: Wetland Mitigation Ratios1
Wetland Creation or
Category Re-
Rehabilitation Enhancement
Category I A.^ 8:1 16:1
Category II 3:1 6:1 12:1
Category III 2:1 4:1 8:1
Category IV 1.5:1 3:1 6:1
Refer to Wetland Mitigation in Washington State, Part 1: Agency
Policies and Guidance, (Ecology Publication # 06-06-011 a March
2006),for further information on wetland creation, re-establishment,
b. Impacts to buffers shall be mitigated at a 1:1 ratio. Only fully vegetated
buffer areas will be included in mitigation calculations. Lawns, walkways,
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driveways, and other mowed or paved areas shall be excluded from
buffer area calculations.
c. Credit/Debit Method. As an alternative to the mitigation ratios provided in
Table 21.50-6, the Director may allow mitigation based on the
"credit/debit" method developed by the Ecology in Calculating Credits and
Debits for Compensatory Mitigation in Wetlands of Eastern Washington:
Final Report (Ecology Publication #11-06-015, August 2012, as adopted
or amended).
2. Wetland mitigation banks.
a. Credits from a wetland mitigation bank may be approved as off-site
mitigation for unavoidable impacts to wetlands when:
The bank program is certified under state rules;
ii. The Director determines that the wetland mitigation bank provides
appropriate compensation for the authorized impacts; and
iii. The proposed use of credits is consistent with the terms and
conditions of the certified bank instrument.
b. Replacement ratios for projects using bank credits shall be consistent
with replacement ratios specified in the certified bank instrument.
c. Credits from a certified wetland mitigation bank may be used to
compensate for impacts located within the service area specified in the
certified bank instrument. In some cases, the service area of the bank
may include portions of more than one adjacent drainage basin for
specific wetland functions.
d. When applying for a wetland mitigation bank, the Applicant shall prepare
a Wetland Mitigation Credit Use Plan that documents consistency with
these criteria and shows how the identified wetland type and associated
functions will be compensated for by purchase of the credits.
3. Design.
a. Design of wetland mitigation projects shall be appropriate for its
landscape position. Compensatory mitigation shall result in the creation,
restoration, or enhancement of a wetland that matches the geomorphic
setting of the site.
b. The design of a wetland that has a different Cowardin or
hydrogeomorphic classification than the impacted wetland may be
justified if supported by a demonstrated need for, or scarcity of, the
wetland type being designed.
4. Timing.
a. Compensatory mitigation is encouraged to be completed prior to activities
that will disturb wetlands.
b. Compensatory mitigation shall be completed no later than immediately
following disturbance and prior to use or occupancy of the action or
development. Construction of mitigation projects shall be timed to reduce
impacts to existing fisheries, wildlife, and flora.
c. The Director may authorize a one-time delay of mitigation when the
Applicant provides a compelling written rationale for the delay with
recommendations from a qualified wetland professional if the delay shall
not:
Create or perpetuate hazardous conditions;
ii. Create environmental damage or degradation; or
iii. Be injurious to the health, safety, or general welfare of the public.
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E. Additional critical area report requirements for wetlands.
1. In addition to the critical area report requirements in SVMC 21.50.500, wetland
reports shall include:
a. Documentation of any fieldwork performed on the site, including but not
limited to field data sheets for delineations, function assessments, ratings,
or baseline hydrologic data;
b. A description of the methodologies used to conduct the wetland
delineations, function assessments, or impact analyses including
references;
c. For each wetland identified on site, adjacent to and within 200 feet of the
project site, provide:
Required buffers;
ii. A professional survey from the field delineation that identifies:
(1) Wetland rating;
(2) Hydrogeomorphic classification;
(3) Cowardin classification of vegetation communities;
(4) On-site wetland acreage; and
(5) Ecological function of the wetland and buffer.
Note: The above shall be based on entire wetland complexes, not
only the portion present on the proposed project site.
iii. Estimates of acreage and boundary for the entire wetland area
where portions of the wetland extend off-site;
iv. Description of habitat elements;
v. Soil conditions based on site assessment and soil survey
information; and
vi. The following information shall be provided to the extent possible:
(1) Hydrologic information such as location and condition of
inlet/outlets (if they can be legally accessed);
(2) Estimated water depths within the wetland; and
(3) Estimated hydroperiod patterns based on visual cues (e.g.,
algal mats, drift lines, flood debris, etc.);
d. A description of the proposed actions and survey and an analysis of site
development alternatives, including a no-development alternative;
e. An assessment of the probable impacts to the wetlands and buffers
resulting from the proposed development, including:
An estimation of acreages of impacts to wetlands and buffers
based on the field delineation;
ii. Impacts associated with anticipated hydroperiod alterations from
the project; and
iii. Impacted wetland functions;
f. A description of how mitigation sequencing was applied pursuant to
SVMC 21.50.210 No Net Loss and Mitigation Sequencing;
g. A discussion of mitigation measures, proposed to preserve existing
wetlands and restore any wetlands that were degraded by the current
proposed land-use activity;
h. Methods to protect and enhance on-site habitat and wetland functions;
A site plan, drawn to scale, with the following information:
Delineated wetland(s) and required buffer(s) for on-site wetlands
as well as off-site critical areas that extend onto the project site;
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ii. Areas of proposed impacts to wetlands and/or buffers (include
square footage estimates);
iii. Proposed stormwater management facilities and outlets for the
development, including estimated areas of intrusion into the
buffers of any critical areas; and
j. A mitigation plan, if required.
21.50.530 Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas - Shoreline Critical Area Regulations
A. Applicability. This section applies to the following developments and uses when
proposed within designated CARAs:
1. Underground and aboveground storage tanks;
2. Vehicle repair and service uses, including automobile washers;
3. Chemical treatment, storage, and disposal facilities;
4. Hazardous waste generating uses;
5. Injection wells, not including Class V or injection wells for stormwater
management;
6. Junk and salvage yards;
7. On-site sewage systems;
8. Solid waste handling and recycling facilities;
9. Surface mines;
10. Uses of hazardous substances, other than household chemicals for domestic
applications;
11. Projects having the potential to adversely impact groundwater; and
12. Work within a wellhead protection area.
B. Designation and classification.
1. CARAs are those areas with a critical recharging effect on aquifers used for
potable water as defined by WAC 365-190-030(2). CARAs have prevailing
geologic conditions associated with infiltration rates that create a high potential
for contamination of ground water resources or contribute significantly to the
replenishment of ground water.
2. Aquifer recharge areas are rated as having a high, moderate, or low susceptibility
based on a scientific analysis of soils, hydraulic conductivity, annual rainfall, the
depth to aquifers, the importance of the vadose zone, and wellhead protection
information. The entire shoreline jurisdiction, as well as the entire City, is
identified as a high susceptibility CARA.
C. Performance standards.
The uses listed in Table 21.50-7 shall be conditioned as necessary to protect CARAs in
accordance with the applicable state and federal regulations.
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Table 21.50-7: Statutes, Regulations, and Guidance
Pertaining to Ground Water Impacting Activities
Activity Statute — Regulation —Guidance
Above Ground Storage Tanks WAC 173-303-640
WAC 173-216; Best Management Practices
Manual for Vehicle and Equipment Washwater
Automobile Washers Discharges(WQ-R-95-056)
Below Ground Storage Tanks WAC 173-360
Chemical Treatment Storage and Disposal
Facilities WAC 173-303-300
Hazardous Waste Generator (Boat Repair
Shops, Biological Research Facility, Dry
Cleaners, Furniture Stripping, Motor Vehicle
Service Garages, Photographic Processing,
Printing and Publishing Shops, etc.) WAC 173-303-300
Injection Wells 40 CFR Parts 144 and 146;WAC 173-218
Vehicle and Metal Recycles —A Guide for
Implementing the Industrial Stormwater General
Junk Yards and Salvage Yards NPDES Permit Requirements (94-146)
On-Site Sewage Systems (Large Scale) WAC 246-272B
On-Site Sewage Systems (< 14,500 gal/day) WAC 246-272A, Local Health Ordinances
Solid Waste Handling and Recycling
Facilities WAC 173-304
Surface Mining WAC 332-18
Additional performance standards for storage tanks that store hazardous substances or
waste.
All storage tanks shall:
1. Comply with Title 24 SVMC Building Code and fire department requirements;
2. Use material in the construction or lining of the tank that is compatible with the
substance to be stored;
3. Not allow the release of a hazardous substance to the ground, groundwater, or
surface water;
4. Prevent releases due to corrosion or structural failure for the operational life of
the tank; and
5. Be protected against corrosion and constructed of noncorrosive material or steel
clad with a noncorrosive material.
D. All new underground storage tanks shall include a built-in secondary containment
system that prevents the release or threatened release of any stored substances.
E. All new aboveground storage tanks shall include a secondary containment structure and
meet either of the criteria below:
1. If the secondary containment is built into the tank structure, the tank shall be
placed over a sealed impervious pad surrounded with a dike. The impervious
pad/dike shall be sized to contain the 10-year storm if exposed to the weather; or
2. If the tank is single walled, the tank shall be placed over a sealed impervious pad
surrounded with a dike. The impervious pad/dike shall have the capacity to
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contain 110 percent of the largest tank plus the 10-year storm if exposed to the
weather.
F. Additional performance standards for vehicle repair and servicing. Vehicle repair and
servicing must be conducted over impermeable pads and within a covered structure
capable of withstanding normally expected weather conditions.
G. Additional standards for chemical storage.
1. All chemicals used shall be stored in a manner that protects them from weather.
Secondary containment shall be provided. On-site disposal of any critical
material or hazardous waste shall be prohibited.
2. All developments and uses shall provide a narrative and plan to show how
development complies with the regulations and performance standards in SVMC
21.50.530(C-F), or prepare a hydrogeological assessment in accordance with
SVMC 21.50.530(H).
3. Proposed developments and uses that are unable to satisfy the performance
standards in SVMC 21.50.530(C-F), shall submit a hydrogeological assessment
report.
H. In addition to the critical area report requirements in SVMC 21.50.500, hydrogeological
assessments shall include:
1. Available geologic and hydrogeological characteristics of the site, including
groundwater depth, flow direction, gradient, and permeability of the unsaturated
zone;
2. Discussion of the effects of the proposed project on groundwater quality and
quantity;
3. A spill plan that identifies equipment and/or structures that could fail, resulting in
an impact. Spill plans shall include provisions for regular inspection, repair,
replacement of structures and equipment that could fail, and mitigation and
cleanup in the event of a spill; and
4. Best management practices proposed to be utilized.
21.50.540 Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas - Shoreline Critical Area
Regulations
A. Applicability. This section applies to all uses, activities, and structures within designated
FWHCAs.
B. Designation.
1. The shoreline buffer as mapped by the City, which protects riparian habitat, and
the waters and land underneath the Spokane River are FWHCAs. The City
protects shoreline functions of these through the Shoreline Buffer established in
SVMC 21.50.230 and the vegetation conservation standards in SVMC 21.50.260.
2. Additionally, all areas meeting one or more of the following criteria, regardless of
any formal identification, are hereby designated FWHCAs:
a. Areas where state or federal designated endangered, threatened, or
sensitive species have a primary association;
b. State priority habitats and areas associated with state priority species, as
identified by the WSDFW and are updated periodically; and
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c. State natural area preserves and natural resource conservation areas.
Natural area preserves and natural resource conservation areas are
defined, established, and managed by WDNR.
C. Performance standards. All development and uses shall be prohibited within FWHCAs
designated in SVMC 21.50.540(6)(2), except in accordance with this section. Buffers
shall be required only for FWHCAs described under SVMC 21.50.540(6)(2), excluding
Priority Habitats. Buffer requirements shall be based on the recommendations of the
FWHCA critical area report. Buffers shall not exceed 100 horizontal feet from the edge
of the FWHCA.
1. General.
a. A FWHCA may be altered only if the proposed alteration of the habitat or
the mitigation proposed does not create a net loss of the quantitative and
qualitative shoreline ecological functions necessary to sustain the
FWHCA.
b. No plant, wildlife, or fish species not indigenous to the region shall be
introduced into a FWHCA unless authorized by a state or federal permit
or approval.
c. Contiguous functioning habitat corridors are preferred to minimize the
isolating effects of development on habitat areas.
d. Vegetation.
Vegetation shall be maintained in its natural state and shall be
disturbed only as minimally necessary for the development; and
ii. Riparian vegetation shall not be removed unless there are no
other alternatives available. When it is necessary, only those
areas of vegetation that are absolutely unavoidable may be
cleared, and shall be re-vegetated with natural riparian vegetation
as soon as possible.
e. The subdivision and short subdivision of land shall comply with the
following provisions:
Land that is located wholly within a FWHCA or its buffer may not
be subdivided;
ii. Land that is located partially within a FWHCA or its buffer may be
divided provided that an accessible and contiguous portion of
each new lot is located outside of the habitat conservation area or
its buffer; and
iii. Access roads and utilities serving the proposal may be permitted
within the FWHCA and associated buffers only if the City
determines that no other feasible alternative exists and when
consistent with the SMP.
f. The project may be conditioned to minimize or mitigate any potential
adverse impacts. Conditions may include, but are not limited to, the
following:
Establishment of buffer zones;
ii. Preservation of critically important vegetation, including
requirements for re-vegetation of disturbed areas with native
plants;
iii. Vegetation screenings to reduce the potential for harassment from
people and/or domesticated animals;
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iv. Limitation of access to the habitat area during critical times of the
year;
v. Fencing to protect wildlife and deter unauthorized access;
vi. Dedication of all or part of the required open space to fish and
wildlife habitat conservation; and
vii. Seasonal restriction of construction activities.
2. FWHCAs with endangered, threatened, or sensitive species.
a. No development shall be allowed within a FWHCA or buffer where state
or federal endangered, threatened, or sensitive species have a primary
association without state and federal consultation and approval from
WDFW and US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), respectively.
b. Approval for alteration of land or activities adjacent to a FWHCA having a
primary association with state or federally endangered, threatened, or
sensitive species shall not occur prior to consultation with the WDFW.
c. Bald eagle habitat shall be protected consistent with:
WAC 232-12-292, Washington State Bald Eagle Protection Rules;
and
ii. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, which may require a
permit obtained from the USFWS.
D. Mitigation, maintenance, and monitoring for FWHCAs designated in SVMC
21.50.540(6)(2).
1. Mitigation sites shall be located:
a. Preferably to achieve contiguous functioning habitat corridors that
minimize the isolating effects of development on habitat areas; and
b. Within the same aquatic ecosystem as the FWHCA disturbed.
2. Where necessary, a permanent means of irrigation shall be installed for the
mitigation plantings. The design shall meet the specific needs of riparian and
shrub steppe vegetation and be prepared by a Qualified Professional and/or
landscape architect.
3. Mitigation shall be installed no later than the next growing season after
completion of site improvements, unless otherwise approved by the Director.
4. Mitigation sites shall be maintained to ensure that the mitigation and
management plan objectives are successful.
5. Maintenance shall include corrective actions to rectify problems, include rigorous,
as-needed elimination of undesirable plants, protection of shrubs and small trees
from competition by grasses and herbaceous plants, and repair and replacement
of any dead plants.
6. Planting areas shall be maintained so they have less than 20 percent total non-
native/invasive plant cover consisting of exotic and/or invasive species. Exotic
and invasive species include any species on the state noxious weed list, or
considered a noxious or problem weed by the Natural Conservation Services
Department or local conservation district.
7. The Applicant shall monitor the performance of any required mitigation and
submit performance monitoring reports to the City consistent with the following:
a. Mitigation sites shall be monitored for five years.
b. Monitoring reports shall be submitted by a Qualified Professional:
One year after mitigation installation;
ii. Three years after mitigation installation; and
iii. Five years after mitigation installation.
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c. The Qualified Professional shall verify whether the conditions of approval
and provisions in the fish and wildlife management and mitigation plan
have been satisfied.
d. Mitigation planting survival shall be 100 percent for the first year, and 80
percent for each of the four years following.
E. Additional critical area report requirements for FWHCAs designated in SVMC
21.50.540(6)(2).
1. Report Contents. In addition to the critical area report requirements in SVMC
21.50.500, FWHCA reports shall include:
a. Habitat assessment, including:
Detailed description of vegetation on and adjacent to the project
area;
ii. Identification of any species of local importance, priority habitats
and species, or endangered, threatened, sensitive, or candidate
species that have a primary association with habitat on or
adjacent to the project area, and assessment of potential project
impacts to the use of the site by the species;
iii. A discussion of any federal, state, or local special management
recommendations, including WDFW habitat management
recommendations, that have been developed for species or
habitats located on or adjacent to the project area;
iv. A discussion of measures, including mitigation sequencing,
proposed to preserve existing habitats or restore any habitat that
was degraded prior to the current proposed land use activity; and
v. A discussion of ongoing management practices that will protect
habitat after the project site has been developed, including
proposed monitoring and maintenance programs.
2. Any proposal in a FWHCA or within 1,320 feet from a priority species den or nest
site that the Director (in consultation with the WDFW) determines is likely to have
an adverse impact on a FWHCA or associated species shall provide a Habitat
Management Plan, including:
a. A plan, drawn to scale, that identifies:
The location of the proposed site;
ii. The relationship of the site to surrounding topographic and built
elements;
iii. The nature and intensity of the proposed use or activity;
iv. Proposed improvement(s) locations and arrangements;
v. The location of the OHWM, shoreline jurisdiction, and riparian
habitat area boundary lines;
vi. The legal description and the total acreage of the parcel;
vii. Existing structures and landscape features including the name
and location of each; and
viii. The location of priority habitat types or priority species point
locations within 1,320 feet of the proposal;
b. An analysis of the impact of the proposed use or activity upon FWHCAs
or associated species and riparian habitat area;
c. A mitigation plan that may include, but is not limited to:
Establishment of perpetual buffer areas;
ii. Preservation and/or restoration of native flora;
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iii. Limitation of access to habitat area;
iv. Seasonal restriction of construction activities;
v. Clustering of development and preservation of open space;
vi. Signs marking habitats or habitat buffer areas;
vii. Use of low impact development techniques;
viii. Recorded deed, plat, binding site plan, or planned unit
development covenant, condition, or restriction legally establishing
a riparian habitat area for subject property;
ix. Conservation or preservation easements; and
x. Dedication or conveyance of title of a riparian habitat area to a
public entity for the purpose of conservation; and
d. A summary of consultation with a habitat biologist with the WDFW. If the
habitat management plan recommends mitigation involving federally
listed threatened or endangered species, migratory waterfowl, or
wetlands, the USFWS shall receive a copy of the draft habitat
management plan and their review comments shall be included in the
final report. The Director shall have the authority to approve habitat
management plans or require additional information.
21.50.550 Geologically Hazardous Areas - Shoreline Critical Area Regulations
A. Applicability.
1. This section applies to all uses, activities, and structures within designated
geologically hazardous areas.
2. Applications for development within the shoreline jurisdiction shall identify if it is
located within a geohazard area as designated on the City Critical Areas and
Priority Habitats Map. The Director may require additional information based on
the criteria in SVMC 21.50.550 to identify unmapped geohazards if application
material and/or a site visit indicate the potential for geohazard.
B. Designation and classification.
1. Areas susceptible to erosion, sliding earthquake, or other geological events are
designated geologically hazardous areas in accordance with WAC 365-190-120,
Geologically Hazardous Areas.
2. Categories.
a. Erosion hazard areas are identified by the NRCS as having a "moderate
to severe," "severe," or"very severe" rill and inter-rill erosion hazard.
Erosion hazard areas also include areas with slopes greater than 15
percent.
b. Landslide hazard areas are subject to landslides based on a combination
of geologic, topographic, and hydrologic factors. They include areas
susceptible because of any combination of bedrock, soil, slope, slope
aspect, structure, hydrology, or other factors and include the following:
Areas of historic failures, including:
(1) Areas delineated by the NRCS as having a significant
limitation for building site development; and
(2) Areas designated as quaternary slumps, earthflows,
mudflows, lahars, or landslides on maps published by the
United States Geological Survey or WDNR;
ii. Areas with all of the following characteristics:
(1) Slopes steeper than 15 percent;
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(2) Hillsides intersecting geologic contacts with a relatively
permeable sediment overlying a relatively impermeable
sediment or bedrock; and
(3) Springs or groundwater seepage;
iii. Areas that have shown movement during the holocene epoch
(from 10,000 years ago to the present) or which are underlain or
covered by mass wastage debris of this epoch;
iv. Slopes that are parallel or subparallel to planes of weakness (such
as bedding planes,joint systems, and fault planes) in subsurface
materials;
v. Slopes having gradients steeper than 80 percent subject to rock
fall during seismic shaking;
vi. Areas potentially unstable as a result of rapid stream incision,
stream bank erosion, and undercutting by wave action, including
stream channel migration zones;
vii. Areas that show evidence of, or are at risk from snow avalanches;
viii. Areas located in a canyon or on an active alluvial fan, presently or
potentially subject to inundation by debris flows or catastrophic
flooding; and
ix. Any area with a slope of 40 percent or steeper and with a vertical
relief of 10 or more feet except areas composed of bedrock. A
slope is delineated by establishing its toe and top and measured
by averaging the inclination over at least 10 feet of vertical relief.
c. Seismic hazard areas are subject to severe risk of damage as a result of
earthquake induced ground shaking, slope failure, settlement or
subsidence, soil liquefaction, or surface faulting. One indicator of
potential for future earthquake damage is a record of past earthquake
damage.
C. Standards applicable to all geologic hazard areas.
1. Any development or uses proposed within 50 feet of a geologic hazard area shall
prepare a critical areas report satisfying the general critical area report
requirements in SVMC 21.50.500 and the additional standards for Geologic
Hazard Areas in SVMC 21.50.550(E).
2. Development or uses within geologically hazardous areas or associated buffers
shall only be allowed when the proposed development or use:
a. Does not increase the threat of the geological hazard to adjacent
properties beyond pre-development conditions;
b. Does not adversely impact other critical areas;
c. Is designed so that the hazard is eliminated or mitigated to a level equal
to or less than pre-development conditions; and
d. Is determined to be safe as designed and under anticipated conditions by
a Qualified Professional.
3. New development that requires structural shoreline stabilization over the life of
the development is prohibited, except in instances where:
a. Stabilization is necessary to protect allowed uses consistent with SVMC
21.50.420(6)(5);
b. No alternative locations are available;
c. Shoreline modifications do not negatively affect other critical areas
pursuant to SVMC 21.50.460; and
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d. Stabilization measures conform to WAC 173-26-231, Shoreline
Modifications.
D. Standards applicable to erosion and landslide hazard areas.
1. Development within an Erosion or Landslide Hazard Area and/or buffer shall be
designed to meet the following basic requirements unless it can be demonstrated
that an alternative design that deviates from one or more of these standards
provides greater long-term slope stability while meeting all other provisions of the
SMP. The requirement for long-term slope stability shall exclude designs that
require regular and periodic maintenance to maintain their level of function:
a. Development shall not decrease the factor of safety for landslide
occurrences below the limits of 1.5 for static conditions and 1.2 for
dynamic conditions. Analysis of dynamic conditions shall be based on a
minimum horizontal acceleration as established by the Uniform Building
Code as adopted or amended;
b. Structures and improvements shall be clustered to avoid geologically
hazardous areas and other critical areas;
c. Structures and improvements shall minimize alterations to the natural
contour of the slope and foundations shall be tiered where possible to
conform to existing topography;
d. Structures and improvements shall be located to preserve the most
critical portion of the site and its natural landforms and vegetation;
e. The proposed development shall not result in greater risk or a need for
increased buffers on neighboring properties;
f. The use of retaining walls that allow the maintenance of existing natural
slope area is preferred over graded artificial slopes; and
g. Development shall be designed to minimize impervious lot coverage.
2. Buffers from all edges of Erosion or Landslide Hazard Areas.
a. The minimum buffer shall be equal to the height of the slope or 50 feet,
whichever is greater.
b. The buffer may be reduced to a minimum of 10 feet when a Qualified
Professional demonstrates that the reduction will adequately protect the
proposed development, adjacent developments and uses, and the subject
critical area.
c. The buffer may be increased where the Director determines a larger
buffer is necessary to prevent risk of damage to proposed and existing
development.
3. Removal of vegetation from an Erosion or Landslide Hazard Area and/or buffer
shall be prohibited unless as part of an approved alteration plan consistent with
SVMC 21.50.260 Shoreline Vegetation Conservation.
4. New utility lines and pipes shall be permitted only when the Applicant
demonstrates that no other practical alternative is available. The line or pipe
shall be located above ground and properly anchored and/or designed so that it
will continue to function in the event of an underlying slide.
5. Stormwater conveyance shall be allowed only when the pipe design includes a
high-density polyethylene pipe with fuse-welded joints, or similar product that is
technically equal or superior.
6. New point discharges from drainage facilities and roof drains onto or upstream
from Erosion or Landslide Hazard Areas shall be prohibited except as follows:
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a. If it is conveyed via continuous storm pipe downslope to a point where
there are no erosion hazards areas downstream from the discharge;
b. If it is discharged at flow durations matching pre-developed conditions,
with adequate energy dissipation, into existing channels that previously
conveyed stormwater runoff in the pre-developed state; or
c. If it is dispersed or discharged upslope of the steep slope onto a low-
gradient undisturbed buffer demonstrated to be adequate to infiltrate all
surface and stormwater runoff, and where it can be demonstrated that
such discharge will not increase the saturation of the slope.
7. Division of land in Erosion or Landslide Hazard Areas and associated buffers is
subject to the following:
a. Land that is located wholly within a designated Erosion or Landslide
Hazard Area or an associated buffer shall not be subdivided.
b. Land that is located partially within a designated Erosion or Landslide
Hazard Area or an associated buffer may be subdivided, provided that
each resulting lot has sufficient buildable area outside of the Erosion or
Landslide Hazard Area and buffer to accommodate reasonable
development without impacting the critical area or requiring structural
stabilization consistent with SVMC 21.50.180(6)(5) General Provisions.
c. Access roads and utilities may be permitted within an Erosion or
Landslide Hazard Area and associated buffers if the City determines that
no other feasible alternative exists.
8. On-site sewage disposal systems, including drain fields, shall be prohibited within
Erosion or Landslide Hazard Areas and associated buffers.
E. Additional critical areas report requirements for geologically hazardous areas reports.
In addition to the critical area report requirements in SVMC 21.50.500, geologically
hazardous area reports shall include:
1. A site plan showing the following:
a. The location of springs, seeps, or other surface expressions of
groundwater on or within 200 feet of the project area or that have
potential to be affected by the proposal;
b. The topography, in two-foot contours, of the project area and all hazard
areas addressed in the report; and
c. The following additional information for a proposal impacting an Erosion
Hazard or Landslide Hazard Area:
The height of slope, slope gradient, and cross section of the
project area;
ii. Stormwater runoff disposal location and flow patterns; and
iii. The location and description of surface water runoff.
2. A geotechnical study that addresses the geologic characteristics and engineering
properties of the soils, sediments, and/or rock of the project area and potentially
affected adjacent properties, including:
a. A description of the surface and subsurface geology, hydrology, soils, and
vegetation found in the project area and in all hazard areas addressed in
the report;
b. A detailed overview of the field investigations; published data and
references; data and conclusions from past assessments of the site; and
site specific measurements, test, investigations, or studies that support
the identification of geologically hazardous areas;
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c. Site history regarding landslides, erosion, and prior grading;
d. A description of the vulnerability of the site to seismic and other geologic
events;
e. Proposals impacting an Erosion or Landslide Hazard Area shall include
the following additional information:
A description of the extent and type of vegetative cover;
ii. An estimate of load capacity including surface and groundwater
conditions, public and private sewage disposal systems, fills and
excavations, and all structural development;
iii. An estimate of slope stability and the effect construction and
placement of structures will have on the slope over the estimated
life of the structure;
iv. An estimate of the bluff retreat rate that recognizes and reflects
potential catastrophic events such as seismic activity or a 100
year storm event;
v. Consideration of the run-out hazard of landslide debris and/or the
impacts of landslide run-out on down slope properties;
vi. A study of slope stability including an analysis of proposed angles
of cut and fill, and site grading;
vii. Recommendations for building limitations, structural foundations,
and an estimate of foundation settlement; and
viii. An analysis of proposed surface and subsurface drainage, and the
vulnerability of the site to erosion;
f. A detailed description of the project, its relationship to the geologic
hazard(s), and its potential impact upon the hazard area, the subject
property, and affected adjacent properties;
g. Recommendations for the minimum no-disturbance buffer and minimum
building setback from any geologic hazard based upon the geotechnical
analysis;
h. A mitigation plan addressing how the activity maintains or reduces the
pre-existing level of risk to the site and adjacent properties on a long-term
basis (equal to or exceeding the projected lifespan of the activity or
occupation);
Proposals impacting an Erosion or Landslide Hazard Area shall include
the following additional information:
An erosion and sediment control plan prepared in compliance with
requirements set forth in SVMC 22.150 Stormwater Management
Regulations; and
ii. Drainage plan for the collection, transport, treatment, discharge,
and recycle of water;
j. Location and methods of drainage, surface water management, locations
and methods of erosion control, a vegetation management and replanting
plan, or other means for maintaining long-term soil stability; and
k. A plan and schedule to monitor stormwater runoff discharges from the
site shall be included if there is a significant risk of damage to
downstream receiving waters due to:
Potential erosion from the site;
ii. The size of the project; or
iii. The proximity to or the sensitivity of the receiving waters.
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3. A geotechnical report, prepared within the last five years for a specific site, and
where the proposed land use activity and surrounding site conditions are
unchanged, may be incorporated into the required critical area report. The
Applicant shall submit a geotechnical assessment detailing any changed
environmental conditions associated with the site.
21.50.560 Frequently Flooded Areas - Shoreline Critical Area Regulations
A. Incorporation and applicability. SVMC 21.30 Floodplain Regulations are incorporated by
reference herein and apply to all uses, activities, and structures within frequently flooded
areas.
B. Additional critical areas report requirements for frequently flooded areas. In addition to
the critical area report requirements in SVMC 21.50.500, critical area reports for
frequently flooded areas shall include:
1. A site plan showing:
a. All areas of a special flood hazard within 200 feet of the project area, as
indicated on the flood insurance map(s);
b. Floodplain (100-year flood elevation), 10- and 50-year flood elevations,
floodway, other critical areas, buffers, and shoreline areas; and
c. Elevation of the lowest floor (including basement) of all structures, and
the level to which any nonresidential structure has been flood proofed.
Alterations of natural watercourses shall be avoided, if feasible. If
unavoidable, the critical area report shall include:
A description of and plan showing the extent to which a
watercourse will be altered or relocated;
ii. A maintenance plan that provides maintenance practices for the
altered or relocated portion of the watercourse to ensure that the
flood carrying capacity is not diminished and downstream or
upstream properties are not impacted; and
iii. A description of how the proposed watercourse alteration
complies with the requirements of FWHCAs, the SMP, and other
applicable state or federal permit requirements.
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APPENDIX A-1
SHORELINE MASTER PROGRAM DEFINITIONS
A. General Provisions.
The definitions provided herein are supplemental to the definitions provided in Appendix A and
only apply for use with the City's SMP, including chapter 21.50 Spokane Valley Municipal Code
(SVMC). Solely for purposes of the City's SMP, if a conflict exists between these definitions and
definitions in Appendix A, the definitions in Appendix A-1 shall govern. The definition of any
word or phrase not listed in Appendix A-1 which is ambiguous when administering the SMP
shall be defined by the City's Community Development Director, or his/her designee, from the
following sources in the order listed:
1. Any City of Spokane Valley resolution, ordinance, code, or regulation;
2. Any statute or regulation of the State of Washington;
3. Legal definitions from the Hearings Board, from Washington common law, or the
most recently adopted Black's Law Dictionary; or
4. The most recently-adopted Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary.
B. Definitions.
Accessory or appurtenant structures: A structure that is necessarily connected to the use
and enjoyment of a single-family residence, including garages, sheds, decks, driveways,
utilities, fences, swimming pools, hot tubs, saunas, tennis courts, installation of a septic tank
and drainfield, and grading which does not exceed 250 cubic yards and does not involve
placement of fill in any wetland or waterward of the OHWM.
Agricultural activities: Relating to the science or art of cultivating soil or producing crops to
be used or consumed directly or indirectly by man or livestock, or raising of livestock. The term
has the full meaning as set forth in WAC 173-26-020(3)(a) as adopted or amended.
Amendment: A revision, update, addition, deletion, and/or reenactment to an existing SMP.
Applicant: A person who files an application for permit under the SMP and may be the owner
of the land on which the proposed activity would be located, a contract purchaser, or the
authorized agent of such a person.
Aquaculture: The culture or farming of fish, shellfish, or other aquatic plants and animals.
Associated wetlands: Those wetlands (see "Wetlands" definition) that are in proximity to and
either influence, or are influenced by, a lake or stream subject to the SMA.
Average grade level: The average of the natural or existing topography of the portion of the
lot, parcel, or tract of real property which will be directly under the proposed building or
structure; provided that in case of structures to be built over water, average grade level shall be
the elevation of OHWM. Calculation of the average grade level shall be made by averaging the
elevations at the center of all exterior walls of the proposed building or structure.
Best Management Practices (BMPs): Site-specific design strategies, techniques,
technologies, conservation and maintenance practices, or systems of practices and
management measures that minimize adverse impacts from the development or use of a site.
Bioengineering: Project designs or construction methods which use living plant material or a
combination of living plant material and natural or synthetic materials to establish a complex root
grid within the bank which is resistant to erosion, provides bank stability, and promotes a
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
healthy riparian environment. Bioengineering approaches may include use of wood structures
or clean angular rock to provide stability.
Boating facilities: Boating facilities include boat launches, ramps, public docks, commercial
docks, and private docks serving more than four residences, together with accessory uses such
as Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant access routes, boat and equipment storage, user
amenities such as benches and picnic tables, and restroom facilities.
Buffer or Shoreline buffer: The horizontal distance from the OHWM or critical area which is
established to preserve shoreline or critical area functions by limiting or restricting development.
See Appendix A-2, Shoreline Buffers Map. Permitted development and activities within buffers
depend on the type of critical area or resource land the buffer is protecting.
Clearing: The destruction or removal of ground cover, shrubs, and trees including, but not
limited to, root material removal and/or topsoil removal.
Commercial uses: Those uses that are involved in wholesale, retail, service, and business
trade. Examples of commercial uses include restaurants, offices, and retail shops.
Conditional use: A use, project, or substantial development which is classified as a conditional
use or is not classified within the SMP.
Degrade: To impair with respect to some physical or environmental property or to reduce in
structure or function.
Development: A use consisting of the construction or exterior alteration of structures; dredging;
drilling; filling; removal of any sand, gravel, or minerals; bulkheading; driving of piling; placing of
obstructions; or any project of a permanent or temporary nature which interferes with the normal
public use of the surface of the waters overlying lands subject to the SMA at any stage of water
level.
Development regulations: The controls placed on development or land uses by the City,
including, but not limited to, zoning ordinances, building codes, critical areas ordinances, all
portions of the SMP other than goals and policies approved or adopted under chapter 90.58
RCW, planned unit development ordinances, subdivision ordinances, and binding site plan
ordinances together with any amendments thereto.
Dock: A floating platform over water used for moorage of recreational or commercial watercraft.
Dredging: The removal of sediment, earth, or gravel from the bottom of a body of water, for the
deepening of navigational channels, to mine the sediment materials, to restore water bodies, for
flood control, or for cleanup of polluted sediments.
Ecological functions or Shoreline functions: The work performed or role played by the
physical, chemical, and biological processes that contribute to the maintenance of the aquatic
and terrestrial environments that constitute the shoreline's natural ecosystem.
Ecology: Washington State Department of Ecology.
Ecosystem-wide process: The suite of naturally occurring physical and geologic processes of
erosion, transport, and deposition; and specific chemical processes that shape landforms within
a specific shoreline ecosystem and determine both the types of habitat and the associated
ecological functions.
Enhancement: Alteration of an existing resource to improve its ecological function without
degrading other existing functions.
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
Exemption or Exempt development: Exempt developments are those set forth in WAC 173-
27-040 and RCW 90.58.030(3)(e), RCW 90.58.140(9), RCW 90.58.147, RCW 90.58.355, and
RCW 90.58.515. See also "Shoreline exemption, letter of".
Feasible: An action, such as a project, mitigation measure, or preservation requirement, which
meets all of the following conditions:
1. The action can be accomplished with technologies and methods that have been
used in the past in similar circumstances, or studies or tests have demonstrated
in similar circumstances that such approaches are currently available and likely
to achieve the intended results;
2. The action provides a reasonable likelihood of achieving its intended purpose;
3. The action does not physically preclude achieving the project's intended legal
use; and
4. In cases where the SMP requires certain actions unless they are infeasible, the
burden of proving infeasibility is on the applicant. In determining an action's
infeasibility, the City may weigh the action's relative public costs and public
benefits, considered in the short- and long-term time frames.
Fill: The addition of soil, sand, rock, gravel, sediment, earth retaining structure, or other
material to an area waterward of the OHWM, in wetlands, or on shorelands in a manner that
raises the elevation or creates dry land. Depositing topsoil in a dry upland area for landscaping
purposes is not considered a fill.
Flood hazard reduction: Measures taken to reduce flood damage or hazards. Flood hazard
reduction measures may consist of nonstructural measures, such as setbacks, land use
controls, wetland restoration, dike removal, use relocation, biotechnical measures, and
stormwater management programs, and of structural measures, such as dikes, levees,
revetments, floodwalls, channel realignment, and elevation of structures consistent with the
National Flood Insurance Program.
Footprint: That area defined by the outside face of the exterior walls of a structure.
Forest practices: Any activity relating to growing, harvesting, or processing timber, including,
but not limited to, uses defined in RCW 76.09.020.
Grading: The movement or redistribution of the soil, sand, rock, gravel, sediment, or other
material on a site in a manner that alters the natural contour of the land.
Habitat: The place or type of site where a plant or animal lives and grows.
Habitat enhancement: Actions performed within an existing shoreline, critical area, or buffer to
intentionally increase or augment one or more ecological functions or values, such as increasing
aquatic and riparian plant diversity or cover, increasing structural complexity, installing
environmentally compatible erosion controls, or removing non-indigenous plant or animal
species.
Hearings Board: The Shoreline Hearings Board established by the SMA.
Height: Height is measured from average grade level to the highest point of a structure;
provided that television antennas, chimneys, and similar appurtenances shall not be used in
calculating height; provided further that temporary construction equipment is excluded from this
calculation.
In-stream structure: A structure placed by humans within a stream or river waterward of the
OHWM that either causes or has the potential to cause water impoundment or cause the
diversion, obstruction, or modification of water flow. In-stream structures may include those for
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
hydroelectric generation, irrigation, water supply, flood control, transportation, utility service
transmission, fish habitat enhancement, recreation, or other purpose.
Industrial uses: Facilities for processing, manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, and storage of
finished or semi-finished products.
Landward: To, or towards, the land in a direction away from a water body.
May: The action is acceptable, provided it conforms to the provisions of this SMP.
Mining: The removal of sand, gravel, soil, minerals, and other earth materials for commercial
and other uses.
Mitigation or Mitigation sequencing: To avoid, minimize, or compensate for adverse impacts.
Native: For the purposes of this SMP, "native" means a plant or animal species that naturally
occurs in Spokane County, or occurred in Spokane County at the time of Euro-American
exploration and settlement, beginning in the early 19th century.
No net loss: The standard for protection of shoreline ecological functions established in RCW
36.70A.480 as adopted or amended, and as that standard is interpreted on an on-going basis
by courts, the Growth Management Hearings Board, or the Hearings Board. The concept of"no
net loss" as used herein, recognizes that any use or development has potential or actual, short-
term or long-term impacts which may diminish ecological function and that through application
of appropriate development standards and employment of mitigation measures in accordance
with mitigation sequencing, those impacts will be addressed in a manner necessary to assure
that the end result will not cumulatively diminish the shoreline resources and values as they
currently exist. Where uses or development that impact ecological functions are necessary to
achieve other objectives of RCW 90.58.020, the no net loss standard protects to the greatest
extent feasible existing ecological functions and favors avoidance of new impacts to habitat and
ecological functions before implementing other measures designed to achieve no net loss of
ecological functions.
Nonconforming structure: A structure within the shoreline which was lawfully constructed or
established within the application process prior to the effective date of the SMA or the SMP, or
amendments thereto, but which does not conform to present regulations or standards of the
SMP.
Nonconforming use: A shoreline use which was lawfully established or established within the
application process prior to the effective date of the SMA or the SMP, or amendments thereto,
but which does not conform to present regulations or standards of the SMP.
Non water-oriented uses: Any uses that are not water-dependent, water-related, or water-
enjoyment as defined by the SMP.
Off-site mitigation: To replace wetlands or other shoreline environmental resources away from
the site on which a resource has been impacted by an activity.
Ordinary high water mark (OHWM): The mark that will be found by examining the bed and
banks and ascertaining where the presence and action of waters are so common and usual,
and so long continued in all ordinary years, as to mark upon the soil a character distinct from
that of the abutting upland, in respect to vegetation as that condition exists on June 1, 1971, as
it may naturally change thereafter, or as it may change thereafter in accordance with permits
issued by the City, provided that in any area where the OHWM cannot be found, the OHWM
adjoining freshwater shall be the line of mean high water.
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Pier: A fixed platform over water used for moorage of recreational or commercial watercraft.
Priority habitats and species: Habitats and species designated by the Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife as requiring protective measures for their survival due to
population status, sensitivity to habitat alteration, and/or recreational, commercial, or tribal
importance. Priority species include State Endangered, Threatened, Sensitive, and Candidate
species; animal aggregations (such as bat colonies) considered vulnerable; and species of
recreational, commercial, or tribal importance that are vulnerable. Washington Department of
Fish and Wildlife maintains maps of known locations of priority habitats and species in
Washington State.
Provisions: Policies, regulations, standards, guideline criteria, or environment designations.
Public access: The ability of the general public to reach, touch, and enjoy the water's edge, to
travel on the waters of the state, and to view the water and the shoreline from adjacent
locations.
Public facilities: Facilities and structures, operated for public purpose and benefit, including,
but not limited to, solid waste handling and disposal, water transmission lines, sewage treatment
facilities and mains, power generating and transfer facilities, gas distribution lines and storage
facilities, stormwater mains, and wastewater treatment facilities.
Qualified professional: A person who, in the opinion of the Director, has appropriate
education, training and experience in the applicable field to generate a report or study required
in this SMP.
1. For reports related to wetlands, this means a certified professional wetland
scientist or a non-certified professional wetland scientist with a minimum of five
years' experience in the field of wetland science and with experience preparing
wetland reports.
2. For reports related to critical aquifer recharge areas, this means a
hydrogeologist, geologist, or engineer, who is licensed in the State of
Washington and has experience preparing hydrogeologic assessments.
3. For reports related to fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas this means a
biologist with experience preparing reports for the relevant type of habitat.
4. For reports related to geologically hazardous areas this means a geotechnical
engineer or geologist, licensed in the State of Washington, with experience
analyzing geologic, hydrologic, and ground water flow systems.
5. For reports related to frequently flooded areas this means a hydrologist or
engineer, licensed in the State of Washington with experience in preparing flood
hazard assessments.
6. For reports related to cultural and archaeological resources and historic
preservation, this means a professional archaeologist or historic preservation
professional.
RCW: Revised Code of Washington.
Recreational use: Commercial and public facilities designed and used to provide recreational
opportunities to the public.
Residential use: Uses for residential purpose.
Restore, restoration, or ecological restoration: The reestablishment or upgrading of
impaired ecological shoreline processes or functions. This may be accomplished through
measures including, but not limited to, revegetation, removal of intrusive shoreline structures,
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City of Spokane Valley Shoreline Master Program
and removal or treatment of toxic materials. Restoration does not imply a requirement for
returning the shoreline area to aboriginal or pre-European settlement conditions.
Riparian area: The interface area between land and a river or stream. The area includes plant
and wildlife habitats and communities along the river margins and banks.
Setback or shoreline setback: The minimum required distance between a structure and the
shoreline buffer that is to remain free of structures.
Shall: An action that is mandatory and not discretionary.
Shorelands or shoreland areas: Those lands extending landward for 200 feet in all directions
as measured on a horizontal plane from the OHWM; floodways and contiguous floodplain areas
landward 200 feet from such floodways; and all wetlands associated with the streams and lakes
which are subject to the provisions of the SMA and the SMP; all of which will be designated as
to location by Ecology.
Shoreline exemption, letter of: Documentation provided by the City that proposed
development qualifies as an Exempt Development (as that term is defined herein) and that the
proposed development is consistent with chapter 21.50 SVMC and other local and state
requirements, including the State Environmental Policy Act as adopted or amended when
applicable.
Shoreline jurisdiction and shoreline areas: All "shorelines of the state" and "shorelands".
Shoreline Management Act (SMA): The Shoreline Management Act of 1971 as set forth in
chapter 90.58 RCW as adopted or amended.
Shoreline Master Program (SMP): The comprehensive use plan applicable to the shorelines
of the state within the City, including the use regulations, together with maps, goals and policies,
and standards developed in accordance with the policies enunciated in RCW 90.58.020.
Shoreline modifications: Those actions that modify the physical configuration or qualities of
the shoreline area, usually through the construction of a physical element such as a dike,
breakwater, pier, weir, dredged basin, fill, bulkhead, or other shoreline structure. They can
include other actions, such as clearing, grading, or application of chemicals.
Shoreline permit(s): Means any substantial development, variance, conditional use permit, or
revision authorized under chapter 21.50 SVMC and chapter 90.58 RCW.
Shoreline stabilization: Actions taken to prevent or mitigate erosion impacts to property or
structures caused by shoreline processes such as currents, floods, or wind action. Shoreline
stabilization includes, but is not limited to, structural armoring approaches such as bulkheads,
bulkhead alternatives, and nonstructural approaches such as bioengineering.
Shoreline substantial development permit: A permit required by the SMP for substantial
development within the shoreline jurisdiction.
Shorelines: All of the water areas of the state, including reservoirs, and their associated
shorelands, together with the lands underlying them, except (a) shorelines of statewide
significance; (b) shorelines on segments of streams upstream of a point where the mean annual
flow is 20 cubic feet per second or less and the wetlands associated with such upstream
segments; and (c) shorelines on lakes less than 20 acres in size and wetlands associated with
such small lakes.
Shorelines of statewide significance: Has the meaning as set forth in RCW 90.58.030(2)(f)
as adopted or amended.
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Shorelines of the state: The total of all "shorelines" and "shorelines of statewide significance"
within the state.
Should: An action which is required unless there is a demonstrated, compelling reason based
on policy of the SMA and the SMP, against taking the action.
Substantial development: Any development of which the total cost or fair market value
exceeds $6,416, or any development which materially interferes with the normal public use of
the water or shorelines of the state. The current thresholds will be adjusted for inflation by the
State Office of Financial Management every five years, beginning from July 1, 2007.
Temporary impact: Impacts to a critical area that are less than one year and expected to be
restored following construction.
Transportation facilities: Facilities consisting of the means and equipment necessary for the
movement of passengers or goods.
Upland: Generally described as the dry land area above and landward of the OHWM.
Utilities: Services and facilities that produce, convey, store or process power, gas, sewage,
water, stormwater, communications, oil, and waste.
Variance: A process to grant relief from the specific bulk, dimensional, or performance
standards through submission of a shoreline variance. A variance is not a means to change the
allowed use of a shoreline.
Viewing platform: A platform located landward of the OHWM used for viewing pleasure.
WAC: Washington Administrative Code.
Water-dependent use: A use or portion of a use which cannot exist in a location that is not
adjacent to the water and which is dependent on the water by reason of the intrinsic nature of its
operations.
Water-enjoyment use: A recreational use or other use that facilitates 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 location, design, and operation ensures the public's
ability to enjoy 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 project must be devoted to the specific aspects of the use that fosters shoreline
enjoyment.
Water-oriented use: A use that is water-dependent, water-related, or water-enjoyment, or a
combination of such uses.
Water quality: The physical characteristics of water within the shoreline jurisdiction, including
water quantity, hydrological, physical, chemical, aesthetic, recreation-related, and biological
characteristics.
Water quantity: The flow rate and/or flow volume of stormwater or surface water. Where used
in the SMP, the term "water quantity" refers to uses and/or structures regulated under the SMP
affecting water quantity, such as impermeable surfaces and stormwater handling practices.
Water quantity, for purposes of the SMP, does not mean the withdrawal of groundwater or
diversion of surface water pursuant to RCW 90.03.250 through 90.03.340.
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Water-related use: A use or portion of a use which is not intrinsically dependent on a
waterfront location but whose economic viability is dependent upon a waterfront location
because:
1. The use has 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
2. The use provides a necessary service supportive of the water-dependent uses
and the proximity of the use to its customers makes its services less expensive
and/or more convenient.
Wetlands: Areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a
frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a
prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands do not
include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from non-wetland sites, including, but not
limited to, irrigation and drainage ditches, grass-lined swales, canals, detention facilities,
wastewater treatment facilities, farm ponds, and landscape amenities, or those wetlands
created after July 1, 1990, that were unintentionally created as a result of the construction of a
road, street, or highway. Wetlands may include those artificial wetlands intentionally created
from non-wetland areas to mitigate the conversion of wetlands.
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Orchard Avenue
Shoreline Master Program
Ordinary High Water LineCentennial Trail
Shoreline Buffer Map
Shoreline JurisdictionCity of Spokane Valley Notice: The information shown on this map is compiled from various
sources. The City makes no claims or guarantees about the accuracy
Appendix A-2
or currency of this map and expressly disclaims liability for errors
Buffer
and omissions in its contents. To confirm accuracy contact the
Projection: Lambert Conformal Conical
Central Median: -177.42 degrees
City of Spokane Valley, Community and Economic Development
Origin: 47.25 degrees
(509)921-1000.
City of Spokane Valley
Effective Date: September 3, 2015
00.250.50.125
Shoreline Master Program
Ordinance No.: 14-020
Miles
AppendA2_Buffers_36x48.pdf