Chapter 18.49
FLEXIBLE DEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVES

Sections:

18.49.010    Intent.

18.49.020    Applicability – Residential development.

18.49.030    Applicability – Mixed-use development.

18.49.040    Applicability – Commercial/industrial developments.

18.49.050    Flexible development standards for residential development.

18.49.060    Flexible development standards for mixed-use development.

18.49.070    Flexible development standards for commercial/industrial.

18.49.080    Procedures.

18.49.090    Appeals.

18.49.010 Intent.

The city of Auburn flexible development alternatives process is intended to allow greater flexibility and creativity to develop a site through the development review process via alternative development standards in exchange for public benefit to the citizens of Auburn that helps the city accomplish goals and policies outlined within its comprehensive plan. In exchange for the enhanced flexibility offered by these alternative standards, the city requires that the proposed development result in a significantly higher quality of design, generate more of a public benefit, and be more environmentally sensitive than would have been the case with the use of standard zoning or subdivision procedures.

This chapter describes standards and requirements to be used by the city of Auburn to determine whether a development proposal meets the city’s minimum requirements to be eligible for review under the flexible development alternatives approval process. (Ord. 6245 § 19, 2009.)

18.49.020 Applicability – Residential development.

A. Minimum Requirements for Residential Development. In order to qualify for consideration under the residential development provisions of this chapter, a development proposal must meet all of the following requirements. Flexible development alternatives for residential development is a two-tiered process including minimum requirements (all of which must be met) and flexible criteria, which must score a minimum of 100 points in at least three categories, with not more than 40 points in any one category counting toward the 100-point minimum.

1. Site Requirements. Flexible development alternatives for residential development is a two-tiered process including minimum requirements (all of which must be met) and flexible criteria, which must score a minimum of 100 points in at least three categories.

a. Location. The site of the proposed project must be located entirely within one or more of the following zoning districts: R-1, R-5, R-7, R-10, R-16, R-20.

b. Minimum Property Size. The land on which the proposed development will be sited is a minimum of eight acres for the R-1 through R-7 zones; and a minimum of two acres for the R-10 through R-20 zones.

c. Lot Configuration. The tract(s) of land for which the project is proposed shall be a common site with sufficient width and depth to accommodate the proposed use.

d. Ownership/Control. All land included for the purpose of the development shall be owned by or be under the complete control of the applicant for such proposal, whether the applicant be an individual, partnership, corporation, group, or agency.

2. Project Requirements.

a. Development Type. The development proposal must constitute a residential development. For purposes of this chapter, a residential development may consist of single family dwellings, multiple-family dwellings, or a combination thereof.

b. Consistency with Intent of Flexible Development Alternative Regulations. Applicant must demonstrate that the proposed development is consistent with the intent of the flexible development alternatives regulations as provided in ACC 18.49.010.

c. Consistency with Auburn City Code. The proposed development shall be consistent with all other requirements of the Auburn City Code.

d. Consistency with Comprehensive Plan. Applicant must demonstrate that the proposed development is consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the City of Auburn Comprehensive Plan.

e. Arrangement of Uses. Where nonresidential uses are proposed as a component of the overall residential development, nonresidential uses may not occupy more than 20 percent of the overall site.

B. Eligibility – Flexible Development Alternatives Scoring Matrix for Residential Development. Subsection C of this section shall be used to determine eligibility of a proposal for review under the city’s flexible development alternatives approval process. To meet the requirements, a project must: (1) score at least 100 points total by providing any combination of features or amenities found in subsection C of this section; and (2) score points in any three or more of Categories 1 through 8 listed in the table, with not more than 40 points in any one category counting toward the 100-point minimum.

C. Eligibility – Residential Flexible Development Matrix. Development proposals will only be awarded points for improvements or project features that exceed the requirements of the other chapters of this title, the other titles of the city code, and the city design and construction standards.

Feature/Benefit

Points Possible

Category 1 Sustainability

a. Project design incorporates the use of one or more of the following low impact development (LID) techniques consistent with the city design and construction standards: bioretention, soil amendment, permeable paving, vegetated roofs, minimal excavation foundations, rooftop rainwater collection.

5 points per technique up to a maximum of 25 points

b. All residential units in the proposal meet the design requirements for one or more of the following certifications:

Leadership in Energy and Efficient Design (LEED) Homes

LEED Neighborhood

Built Green single-family homes

Built Green multifamily

Built Green community.

LEED: 15 points for certification, add the following points for applicable design level: 5 points for Silver, 10 points for Gold, 15 points for Platinum

 

Built Green single-family and multifamily: 5 points for 3-star design level, 10 points for 4-star design level, 15 points for 5-star design level

 

Built Green community: 10 points for 2-star design level, 15 points for 3-star design

c. Project buildings and structures are constructed with at least 10% post-consumer content/recycled materials.

5 points, plus 1 point for each two percentage points in excess of 10%; up to a maximum of 10 points

d. Project implements a construction recycling program approved by the city of Auburn building division for construction, demolition and deconstruction projects that achieves a 90 percent landfill diversion rate.

5 points

e. Project design incorporates one or more water conservation and management features (i.e., low-flow toilets, Energy Star-rated dishwashers and clothes-washing machines, drip irrigation system, etc.).

5 points, plus one point for each type of water conservation/management feature

f. Project design incorporates one or more energy conservation/efficiency features (i.e., orienting buildings for passive cooling and optimal use of natural lighting, high efficiency lighting with occupancy sensors for common areas, Energy Star-rated appliances, use of solar panels, etc.).

5 points, plus one point for each type of energy conservation/efficiency feature

g. Applicant has provided an assessment of project’s carbon footprint prepared by a qualified consultant defined as an individual or firm with specialized knowledge or expertise in the assessment of greenhouse gas and carbon impacts of development.

10 points

Category 2 Urban Design

a. Project incorporates public art features that reflect the community’s values, history, economy or people in accordance with the city of Auburn comprehensive plan.

5 points

b. Project facilitates access by bicyclists in accordance with the city of Auburn comprehensive plan, and project does not contain barriers such as fences or walls that unnecessarily limit or block bicyclist access.

5 points

c. Project involves the voluntary undergrounding of existing above ground utilities in accordance with the city of Auburn comprehensive plan, where such undergrounding would not otherwise be required.

5 points + 1 point for every 25 feet of frontage up to a maximum of 10 points

d. Project incorporates beautification of a designated primary travel corridor (pursuant to the adopted city transportation plan, and subject to the approval of the city engineer) in accordance with the city of Auburn comprehensive plan.

10 points

e. Project incorporates pedestrian- or transit-friendly design features such as rear or side setback area parking, wider sidewalks, street furniture, and building awnings in accordance with the city of Auburn comprehensive plan.

5 points + 1 point per non-repeated design feature up to a maximum of 15 points

Category 3 Community Cohesion and Neighborhood Safety

a. Project incorporates crime prevention through environmental design principles.

5 points, plus 1 point for each CPTED technique incorporated in design

b. Project design incorporates features or design elements to minimize interfaces between pedestrians and vehicular traffic (i.e., elevated walkway, de-linking walkways and streets, etc.).

5 points

c. Project design provides for well defined neighborhood gateways and community/common open spaces.

5 points

d. Project provides secure and observable play spaces for children.

5 points

e. Project provides for outdoor seating/gathering areas for passive social activities (i.e., reading, conversing, or playing chess, etc.).

3 points

Category 4 Housing

a. Senior Housing Project creates or rehabilitates a minimum of 10 percent or 2 units (whichever is greater) of proposed housing meeting the definition of “senior housingas provided in Chapter 18.04 ACC.

2 points per senior housing unit up to a maximum of 15 points

b. Special Needs Housing Project creates or rehabilitates a minimum of 10 percent or 2 units (whichever is greater) of proposed housing meeting the definition of “special needs housing” as provided in Chapter 18.04 ACC.

2 points per senior housing unit up to a maximum of 15 points

c. Rehabilitation Project rehabilitates one or more existing housing units. Rehabilitation must meet the definition of housing rehabilitation” as defined in Chapter 18.04 ACC.

2 points per rehabilitated housing unit, to a maximum of 50 pts

d. Housing Variety Project creates or rehabilitates units representing 2 or more housing types as allowed in ACC 18.07.020 in the zone in which the development is proposed.

2 points per max of housing type up to a maximum of 10 points

Category 5 Open Space and Recreation

a. Projects incorporating residential units provide for individual unit private open space area through the provision of a balcony, covered porch or similar architectural feature.

3 points

b. Projects incorporating residential units provide for common open space area that equates to 250 square feet of common open space per unit or 10 percent of the total gross site area, whichever is greater.

5 points

c. The director, in consultation with the city parks department, determines that the project creates a neighborhood park, trail, or other public recreational amenity as listed in Chapter 18.04 ACC not otherwise required by city development regulations that furthers the goals and objectives of an adopted city parks, recreation, and/or open space plan.

2 points for each 0.25-acre of area or 200 linear feet of trail up to a maximum of 15 points

d. Project provides one or more common gardening spaces or community “pea patch” areas for residents of the development or surrounding neighborhood.

5 points, plus 1 point for each 250 square feet of gardening space.

Category 6 Natural Resources Protection

a. Project retains and provides a superior level of protection and/or enhancement for sensitive natural features on site, including: wetlands, surface waters, geological hazardous areas, sensitive plant and animal species, etc. For purposes of this category, superior level of protection and/or enhancement includes incorporation of additional protections and/or restoration projects that enhance protection of or restore critical functions and values of the natural feature.

15 points

b. The project design demonstrates a superior level of protection and/or enhancement for elements of the environment, including: air quality, water quality, natural topography, native vegetation, etc. For purposes of this category, superior level of protection and/or enhancement includes incorporation of additional protections and/or restoration projects that enhance protection of or restore critical functions and values of the environmental element.

15 points

c. The project design demonstrates a superior level of mitigation for impacts associated with the proposed development (or abatement of existing environmental conditions in the neighborhood) such as noise, light and glare, odors, vibration, etc. For purposes of this section, “superior level of mitigation” shall mean mitigation that alleviates existing condition issues in addition to mitigating for project impacts.

15 points

Category 7 Cultural/Historic

a. Project preserves a site, structure or feature of cultural or historic significance. For purposes of this section, a site, structure or feature of cultural or historic significance is one that is listed on the federal, state, or local register of historic or cultural properties.

25 points

b. Project restores or enhances a site, structure or feature of cultural or historic significance as defined under subsection (7)(a) of this table.

40 points

c. Project is located in any district designated in accordance with the city of Auburn historic preservation code, Chapter 15.76 ACC, or any other district designated by city of Auburn ordinance or resolution intended to preserve, protect, enhance, and/or perpetuate those sites, buildings, districts, structures or objects which possess notable features or reflect significant elements of Auburn’s, the county’s, state’s and nation’s cultural, aesthetic, social, economic, political, architectural, ethnic, archaeological, engineering, historic, or other heritage. Applicant must demonstrate that project design advances the stated intent of the district designation.

15 points

Category 8 Transportation and Mobility

a. Project demonstrates coordination with local and regional transit agencies and includes new transit facilities or features.

15 points

b. Project design includes nonmotorized transportation features and amenities not otherwise required by the city code. For purposes of this requirement, nonmotorized transportation features include but are not limited to pedestrian walkways, multi-use paths, bicycle racks/lockable storage, connections with other local/regional trails, walkways, paths.

5 points for each feature, up to a maximum of 25

c. Project improves the public street(s) adjacent to the project site using a complete streets design to provide accommodation for pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and persons of all abilities, where such improvements are not otherwise required by city development regulations.

25 points

d. Project design includes one or more transportation demand management features including but not limited to preferential parking for high-occupancy vehicles, improved access for transit vehicles.

5 points for each feature, up to a maximum of 15

e. Project provides for one or more transportation alternatives which include but are not limited to car share, bike share or other method of providing alternatives to individual automobile ownership.

5 points for each alternative, up to a maximum of 15

 

Design Innovation Bonus

a. Project demonstrates a high degree of innovation by providing one or more design features not listed elsewhere in this rating instrument or otherwise required by city development regulations that promote(s) sustainability, energy/water conservation or efficiency, community cohesion, neighborhood safety, adaptive reuse of existing development, or enhanced transportation circulation/mobility.

10 points

(Ord. 6245 § 19, 2009.)

18.49.030 Applicability – Mixed-use development.

Flexible development alternatives for mixed-use development is a two-tiered process including minimum requirements (all of which must be met) and flexible criteria, which must score a minimum of 100 points in at least three categories, with not more than 40 points in any one category counting toward the 100-point minimum.

A. Minimum Requirements for Mixed-Use Development. In order to qualify for consideration under the mixed-use development provisions of this chapter, a development proposal must meet all of the following requirements:

1. Site Requirements.

a. Location. The site of the proposed project must be located entirely within one or more of the following zoning districts: R-10, R-16, R-20, C, C1, C2, C3, CN, RO, RO-H, M1.

b. Lot Configuration. The tract(s) of land for which the project is proposed shall be a common site with sufficient width and depth to accommodate the proposed use.

c. Ownership/Control. All land included for the purpose of the development shall be owned by or be under the complete control of the applicant for such proposal, whether the applicant be an individual, partnership, corporation, group, or agency.

d. Proximity to a Multimodal Transportation Corridor. The site of the proposed development shall be located a maximum of one quarter mile from a multimodal transportation corridor within the city of Auburn. The proposed development shall provide vehicular, transit, bicycle or pedestrian access to the corridor.

e. Proximity to Public Street System. The site of the proposed development shall abut one or more public streets having a current functional street classification of principal arterial, minor arterial, residential collector, or nonresidential collector as designated by the Auburn comprehensive transportation plan.

2. Project Requirements.

a. Development Type. The development proposal must constitute a mixed-use development. For purposes of this chapter, a mixed-use development is a single unified development that incorporates the planned integration of two or more different land uses consisting of some combination of office, light industrial (if allowed in underlying zone), hotel, retail, public entertainment and public uses, and/or housing. Mixed-use projects may be vertically oriented in one or more buildings, or geographically distributed on a development site.

b. Consistency with Intent of Flexible Development Alternative Regulations. Applicant must demonstrate that the proposed development is consistent with the intent of the flexible development alternatives regulations as provided in ACC 18.49.010.

c. Consistency with Auburn City Code. The proposed development shall be consistent with all other requirements of the Auburn City Code.

d. Consistency with Comprehensive Plan. Applicant must demonstrate that the proposed development is consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the city of Auburn comprehensive plan.

e. Arrangement of Uses. No residential use may occupy more than 25 percent of the first floor of a building with two or more uses.

B. Eligibility – Flexible Development Alternatives Scoring Matrix for Mixed-Use Development. Subsection C of this section shall be used to determine eligibility of a proposal for review under the city’s flexible development alternatives approval process. To meet the requirements, a project must: (1) score at least 100 points total by providing any combination of features or amenities found in subsection C of this section; and (2) score points in any three or more of Categories 1 through 9 listed in the table. For each development proposal requesting evaluation through the flexible development alternatives process, the planning director shall determine: (1) whether the proposal meets the criteria for each feature in the flexible development matrix in subsection C of this section; and (2) the number of points awarded for each qualifying feature consistent with the matrix.

Development proposals will only be awarded points for improvements or project features that exceed the requirements of the other chapters of this title, the other titles of the city code, and the city design and construction standards.

C. Eligibility – Mixed-Use Flexible Development Matrix.

Feature/Benefit

Points Possible

Category 1 Sustainability

a. Project design incorporates the use of one or more of the following low impact development (LID) techniques consistent with the city design and construction standards: bioretention, soil amendment, permeable paving, vegetated roofs, minimal excavation foundations, rooftop rainwater collection.

5 points per technique up to a maximum of 25 points

b. Residential portion of project (all residential units) meets the design requirements for one or more of the following LEED or Built Green certifications:

Leadership in Energy and Efficient Design (LEED) Homes

LEED Neighborhood

Built Green single-family homes

Built Green multifamily

Built Green community.

LEED: 15 points for certification, add the following points for applicable design level: 5 points for Silver, 10 points for Gold, 15 points for Platinum

 

Built Green single-family and multifamily: 5 points for 3-star design level, 10 points for 4-star design level, 15 points for 5-star design level

 

Built Green community: 10 points for 2-star design level, 15 points for 3-star design

c. Nonresidential portion of project (all nonresidential buildings, structures, or spaces) meets the design requirements for one or more of the following LEED certifications:

LEED Core and Shell

LEED New Construction

LEED Commercial Interiors

LEED Retail

15 points for certification, add the following points for applicable design level: 5 points for silver, 10 points for gold, 15 points for platinum

d. Project buildings and structures are constructed with at least 10 percent post-consumer content/recycled materials.

5 points, plus 1 point for each two percentage points in excess of 10 percent; up to a maximum of 10 points

e. Project implements a construction recycling program approved by the city of Auburn building division for construction, demolition and deconstruction projects that achieves a 90 percent landfill diversion rate.

5 points

f. Project design incorporates one or more water conservation and management features not otherwise required by other city development regulations or standards (i.e., low-flow toilets, Energy Star-rated dishwashers and clothes-washing machines, drip irrigation system, etc.).

5 points, plus one point for each type of water conservation/management feature

g. Project design incorporates one or more energy conservation/efficiency features (i.e., orienting buildings for passive cooling and optimal use of natural lighting, high efficiency lighting with occupancy sensors for common areas, Energy Star-rated appliances, use of solar panels, etc.).

5 points, plus one point for each type of energy conservation/efficiency feature

h. Applicant has provided an assessment of project’s carbon footprint prepared by a qualified consultant, defined as an individual or firm with specialized knowledge or expertise in the assessment of greenhouse gas and carbon impacts of development.

10 points

Category 2 Urban Design

a. Project incorporates public art features that reflect the community’s values, history, economy or people in accordance with the city of Auburn comprehensive plan.

5 points

b. Project facilitates access by bicyclists in accordance with the city of Auburn comprehensive plan, and project does not contain barriers such as fences or walls that unnecessarily limit or block bicyclist access.

5 points

c. Project involves the voluntary undergrounding of existing above-ground private utility distribution, service, and telecommunication lines not otherwise required by the city.

5 points + 1 point for every 25 feet of frontage up to a maximum of 10 points

d. Project incorporates landscaping; design features such as decorative, textured, or pigmented concrete; historical signage; or other features not otherwise required by other city codes that enhance the visual appearance of the streets adjacent to the project (pursuant to the adopted city transportation plan) in accordance with the city of Auburn comprehensive plan. Any such features that would be located in the public right-of-way would be subject to the approval of the city engineer.

10 points

e. Project incorporates transit-friendly design features such as rear or side setback area parking, wider sidewalks, street furniture, and building awnings in accordance with the city of Auburn comprehensive plan.

5 points + 1 point per non-repeated design feature up to a maximum of 15 points

Category 3 Community Cohesion and Neighborhood Safety

a. Project incorporates crime prevention through environmental design principles.

5 points, plus 1 point for each CPTED technique incorporated in design

b. Project design incorporates features or design elements to minimize interfaces between pedestrians and vehicular traffic (i.e., elevated walkway, de-linking walkways and streets, etc.).

5 points

c. Planning director finds that project design provides for well defined neighborhood gateways and community/common open spaces.

5 points

d. Project provides secure and observable play spaces for children.

5 points

e. Project provides for outdoor seating/gathering areas for passive social activities (i.e., reading, conversing, or playing chess, etc.).

3 points

Category 4 Housing

a. Senior Housing Project creates or rehabilitates a minimum of 10 percent or 2 units (whichever is greater) of proposed housing meeting the definition of “senior housingas provided in Chapter 18.04 ACC.

2 points per senior housing unit up to a maximum of 15 points

b. Special Needs Housing Project creates or rehabilitates a minimum of 10 percent or 2 units (whichever is greater) of proposed housing meeting the definition of “special needs housing” as provided in Chapter 18.04 ACC.

2 points per senior housing unit up to a maximum of 15 points

c. Rehabilitation Project rehabilitates one or more existing housing units. Rehabilitation must meet the definition of housing rehabilitation” as defined in Chapter 18.04 ACC.

2 points per rehabilitated housing unit, to a maximum of 50 pts

d. Housing Variety Project creates or rehabilitates units representing 2 or more housing types as allowed in ACC 18.07.020 in the zone in which the development is proposed.

2 points per max of housing type up to a maximum of 10 points

Category 5 Open Space and Recreation

a. Projects incorporating residential units provide for individual unit private open space area through the provision of a balcony, covered porch or similar architectural feature.

3 points

b. Projects incorporating residential units provide for common open space area adjacent to the mixed-use building(s) that equates to 250 square feet of common open space per unit or 10 percent of the total gross site area, whichever is greater.

5 points

c. The director, in consultation with the city parks department, determines that the project creates a neighborhood park, trail, or other public recreational amenity as listed in Chapter 18.04 ACC, not otherwise required by city development regulations, that furthers the goals and objectives of an adopted city parks, recreation, and/or open space plan.

2 points for each 0.25-acre of area or 200 linear feet of trail up to a maximum of 15 points

d. Project provides one or more common gardening spaces or community “pea patch” areas for residents of the development or surrounding neighborhood.

5 points, plus 1 point for each 250 square feet of gardening space.

Category 6 Natural Resources Protection

a. Project retains and provides a superior level of protection and/or enhancement for sensitive natural features on site, including: wetlands, surface waters, geological hazardous areas, sensitive plant and animal species, etc. For purposes of this category, superior level of protection and/or enhancement includes incorporation of additional protections and/or restoration projects that enhance protection of or restore critical functions and values of the natural feature.

15 points

b. The project design demonstrates a superior level of protection and/or enhancement for elements of the environment, including: air quality, water quality, natural topography, native vegetation, etc. For purposes of this category, superior level of protection and/or enhancement includes incorporation of additional protections and/or restoration projects that enhance protection of or restore critical functions and values of the natural feature.

15 points

c. The project design demonstrates a superior level of mitigation for impacts associated with the proposed development (or abatement of existing environmental conditions in the neighborhood) such as noise, light and glare, odors, vibration, etc. For purposes of this section, “superior level of mitigation” shall mean mitigation that alleviates existing condition issues in addition to mitigating for project impacts.

15 points

Category 7 Cultural/Historic

a. Project preserves a site, structure or feature of cultural or historic significance. For purposes of this section, a site, structure or feature of cultural or historic significance is one that is listed on the federal, state, or local register of historic or cultural properties.

25 points

b. Project restores or enhances a site, structure or feature of cultural or historic significance as defined under subsection (7)(a) of this table.

40 points

c. Project is located in any district designated in accordance with the city of Auburn historic preservation code, Chapter 15.76 ACC, or any other district designated by city of Auburn ordinance or resolution intended to preserve, protect, enhance, and/or perpetuate those sites, buildings, districts, structures or objects which possess notable features or reflect significant elements of Auburn’s, the county’s, state’s and nation’s cultural, aesthetic, social, economic, political, architectural, ethnic, archaeological, engineering, historic, or other heritage. Applicant must demonstrate that project design advances the stated intent of the district designation.

15 points

Category 8 Transportation and Mobility

a. Project demonstrates coordination with local and regional transit agencies and includes new transit facilities or features.

15 points

b. Project design includes nonmotorized transportation features and amenities not otherwise required by the city code. For purposes of this requirement, nonmotorized transportation features include but are not limited to pedestrian walkways, multi-use paths, bicycle racks/lockable storage, connections with other local/regional trails, walkways, paths.).

5 points for each feature, up to a maximum of 25

c. Project improves the public street(s) adjacent to the project site using a complete streets design to provide accommodation for pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and persons of all abilities, where such improvements are not otherwise required by city development regulations.

25 points

d. Project design includes one or more transportation demand management features including but not limited to preferential parking for high-occupancy vehicles, improved access for transit vehicles.

5 points for each feature, up to a maximum of 15

e. Project provides for one or more transportation alternatives which include but are not limited to car share, bike share or other method of providing alternatives to individual automobile ownership.

5 points for each alternative, up to a maximum of 15

Category 9 Economic Development

a. Project creates or retains a minimum of 10 permanent family wage jobs. For purposes of this section, a permanent family wage job shall be a full-time job that, including benefits, earns at least 250 percent of the federal poverty guideline for a family of four as listed in the latest Federal Poverty Guidelines published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

2 points per job created up to a maximum of 40

b. Project creates or retains a minimum of 10 permanent higher wage jobs. For purposes of this section, a permanent family wage job shall be a full-time job that, including benefits, earns at least 350 percent of the federal poverty guideline for a family of four as listed in the latest Federal Poverty Guidelines published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

4 points per job created up to a maximum of 40

c. Project provides one or more neighborhood services listed in Chapter 18.04 ACC.

3 points per neighborhood service up to a maximum of 15 points

d. Project revitalizes (i.e., proposes more intensive and active development than exists) commercial or industrial sites incorporating current adopted design standards producing commercial uses in accordance with the city of Auburn comprehensive plan.

10 points

 

Design Innovation Bonus

a. Project demonstrates a high degree of innovation by providing one or more design features not listed elsewhere in this rating instrument or otherwise required by city development regulations that promote(s) sustainability, energy/water conservation or efficiency, community cohesion, neighborhood safety, adaptive reuse of existing development, or enhanced transportation circulation/mobility.

10 points

(Ord. 6245 § 19, 2009.)

18.49.040 Applicability – Commercial/industrial developments.

Reserved. (Ord. 6245 § 19, 2009.)

18.49.050 Flexible development standards for residential development.

Residential development that meets the minimum eligibility requirements of ACC 18.49.020 is able to utilize the flexible development standards outlined in this section.

A. General Development Standards. The following general flexible development standards would be applicable to residential development that meets the eligibility criteria for residential development as outlined in ACC 18.49.020(A).

1. Alternative Lot Dimension Requirements. Lot area, lot frontage and width, and setback requirements otherwise required under this title shall not apply to individual lots within a flexible development authorized under this chapter; provided, that the director has approved the proposed alternative lot dimensions for the development subject to the following limitations:

a. Lots having primary frontage on a street other than a street created by the development shall not have reduced frontage or front setbacks unless the director determines that doing so improves consistency of building spacing and bulk with the character of the existing facility; and

b. At least 50 percent of the required front, side and rear setback areas for the district shall be maintained in the development. In no case shall any side yard setback be less than five feet.

c. In no case shall required lot widths be reduced below 50 percent of the underlying zone requirement, or below 30 feet as the absolute minimum required lot width within residential zones.

2. Alternative Parking Lot Landscaping Requirements. Parking lot landscaping type, location, frontage, and area requirements under ACC 18.50.060 shall not apply to off-street parking areas in a flexible development authorized under this chapter; provided, that the director has approved an alternative landscape design for the development subject to the following limitations:

a. Total proposed parking lot landscape area is greater than or equal to parking lot landscape area required under ACC 18.50.060(H); and

b. No sight-obscuring plants will be allowed whenever safe sight clearance is necessary for ingress and egress from a public street.

3. Alternative Engineering Design Standards. Residential flexible development projects authorized under this chapter shall be eligible to deviate from the city of Auburn engineering design standards; provided, that the city engineer has determined that the proposed design (a) meets or exceeds the technical requirements otherwise required by the engineering design standards with respect to functionality, safety, and maintenance and operation, (b) is consistent with the city comprehensive plan and applicable capital facilities and comprehensive utility plans, and (c) is consistent with the purpose and intent of the flexible development regulations under this chapter. The project applicant is responsible for providing information in sufficient detail to allow the city engineer to make such determination.

4. Expedited Permitting Process of 90 Days or Less. Flexible development projects authorized under this chapter shall receive expedited permit review for city land use approvals and building permits associated with the project. For such development permits, the city shall strive to limit the city’s processing time to not more than 90 days after receipt of a complete permit application, including SEPA environmental review information as required by Chapter 16.06 ACC, as stated in a letter from the city acknowledging receipt of said complete application or 75 percent of the standard processing time for such application, whichever is greater. Time during which applicants are providing revisions and/or otherwise amending a permit application shall not be counted against the 90-day permit processing timeline.

5. Density Bonus.

a. One Hundred Thirty-Five Percent Residential Density Bonus. A density bonus allowing up to 135 percent of the base density of the underlying zone shall be allowed for developments that meet the minimum eligibility criteria of ACC 18.49.020 of 100 points.

b. One Hundred Fifty Percent Residential Density Bonus. A density bonus allowing up to 150 percent of the base density of the underlying zone shall be allowed for development projects that show exceptional merit as measured by scoring up to 150 points on the eligibility criteria matrix of ACC 18.49.020.

B. Feature-Specific Residential Development Standards.

1. Alternative Minimum Off-Street Parking. Development projects that incorporate at least two of the following features as part of the multifamily residential portion of the development may reduce the number of off-street parking spaces otherwise required under Chapter 18.52 ACC for that/those portion(s) of the development by 25 percent:

a. Within one-half mile of transit stops serving transit routes that provide service six or more days per week;

b. Improved access for transit vehicles;

c. Alternative transportation elements (i.e., car share, bicycle parking facilities, etc.); and

d. Connections with other local/regional trails, walkways, paths, etc. (Ord. 6245 § 19, 2009.)

18.49.060 Flexible development standards for mixed-use development.

Development that meets the minimum eligibility requirements of ACC 18.49.030 is able to utilize the flexible development standards outlined in this section.

A. General Development Standards. The following general flexible development standards would be applicable to development that meets the eligibility criteria for mixed-use development as outlined in ACC 18.49.030.

1. Alternative Lot Dimension Requirements. Lot area, lot frontage and width, and setback requirements otherwise required under this title shall not apply to individual lots within a flexible development authorized under this chapter; provided, that the director has approved the proposed alternative lot dimensions for the development subject to the following limitations:

a. Lots having primary frontage on a street other than a street created by the development shall not have reduced frontage or front setbacks unless the director determines that doing so improves consistency of building spacing and bulk with the character of the existing facility; and

b. At least 50 percent of the required front, side, and rear setbacks for the underlying zone shall be maintained in the development. In no case shall any side yard setback be less than five feet.

2. Alternative Parking Lot Landscaping Requirements. Parking lot landscaping type, location, frontage, and area requirements under ACC 18.50.060(H) shall not apply to off-street parking areas in a flexible development authorized under this chapter; provided, that the director has approved an alternative landscape design for the development subject to the following limitations:

a. Total proposed parking lot landscape area is greater than or equal to parking lot landscape area required under ACC 18.50.060(H); and

b. No sight-obscuring plants will be allowed whenever safe sight clearance is necessary for ingress and egress from a public street.

3. Alternative Engineering Design Standards. Mixed-use flexible development projects authorized under this chapter shall be eligible to deviate from the city of Auburn engineering design standards consistent with the city of Auburn construction and design standards process; provided, that the city engineer has determined that the proposed design: (a) meets or exceeds the technical requirements otherwise required by the engineering design standards with respect to functionality, safety, and maintenance and operation, (b) is consistent with the city comprehensive plan and applicable capital facilities and comprehensive utility plans, and (c) is consistent with the purpose and intent of the flexible development regulations under this chapter. The project applicant is responsible for providing information in sufficient detail to allow the city engineer to make such determination.

4. Expedited Permitting Process of 90 Days or Less. Flexible development projects authorized under this chapter shall receive expedited permit review for city land use approvals and building permits associated with the project. For such development permits, the city shall strive to limit the city’s processing time to not more than 90 days after receipt of a complete permit application, including SEPA environmental review information as required by Chapter 16.06 ACC, as stated in a letter from the city acknowledging receipt of said complete application or 75 percent of the standard processing time for such application, whichever is greater. Time during which applicants are providing revisions and/or otherwise amending a permit application shall not be counted against the 90-day permit processing timeline.

5. Density Bonus.

a. One Hundred Thirty-Five Percent Density Bonus. A residential density bonus allowing up to 135 percent of the base density of the underlying zone shall be allowed for developments that meet the minimum eligibility criteria of ACC 18.49.030 of 100 points.

b. One Hundred Fifty Percent Density Bonus. A residential density bonus allowing up to 150 percent of the base density of the underlying zone shall be allowed for development projects that show exceptional merit as measured by meeting up to 150 points on the eligibility criteria matrix of ACC 18.49.030(C).

B. Feature-Specific Mixed Use Development Standards.

1. Alternative Minimum Off-Street Parking. Development can qualify for either subsection (B)(1)(a) or (b) of this section, but not both.

a. Development projects that incorporate shared parking areas for two or more nonresidential principal uses may reduce the total number of off-street parking spaces otherwise required for those uses under Chapter 18.52 ACC by 25 percent.

b. Development projects that incorporate any of the following features as part of the residential and/or nonresidential portions of the development may reduce the number of off-street parking spaces otherwise required under Chapter 18.52 ACC for that/those portion(s) of the development by 25 percent; developments also providing for shared parking for two or more nonresidential principal uses may reduce the number of nonresidential off-street parking spaces otherwise required under Chapter 18.52 ACC by 35 percent:

i. Transit stops;

ii. Improved access for transit vehicles;

iii. Alternative transportation elements (i.e., car share, bicycle parking facilities, etc.); and

iv. Connections with other local/regional trails, walkways, paths, etc.

2. Structured Parking Bonus. A development that includes all of its proposed parking within a parking structure (as defined in Chapter 18.04 ACC) that is screened from surrounding public streets and public spaces may be allowed to reduce minimum garage setbacks to zero inches for portions of the parking structure that are underground. Any portion of such improvements that would be located in the public right-of-way would be subject to the approval of the city engineer and may require a right-of-way use permit.

3. Use of Hardscape for Open Space. A mixed-use development may be allowed to provide up to 75 percent of its required on-site open space as hardscape such as decorative paving, rock outcroppings, fountains, plant containers for features such as plazas, courtyards, and other public gathering spaces. Hardscape is encouraged to be provided in the form of pervious surfaces meeting city design and construction standards.

4. Maximum Height Bonus. Mixed-use development that includes required on-site parking within a parking structure may provide an additional 10 feet of height to the building; provided, that a portion of that height is used to provide roof forms that provide distinctive roof forms such as:

a. Pitched or sloped roof;

b. Extended parapets; or

c. Projecting cornices. (Ord. 6245 § 19, 2009.)

18.49.070 Flexible development standards for commercial/industrial.

Reserved. (Ord. 6245 § 19, 2009.)

18.49.080 Procedures.

A. Project proponents interested in applying for flexible development under this chapter must follow the requirements of the underlying permit process as outlined in ACC Title 14 with the following exceptions:

1. Prior to submittal of an application that incorporates proposed flexible development standards, the applicant must first submit:

a. A checklist on a form provided by the city of Auburn outlining the features that the development proposal will utilize to reach the required minimum 100-point eligibility needed to utilize flexible development standards.

b. A conceptual site plan (including conceptual design of all public utility facilities and road design) and narrative that identifies the features that meet the 100-point requirement of ACC 18.49.020, 18.49.030, or 18.49.040 based on development type, and that identifies the flexible development features of ACC 18.49.050, 18.49.060, and 18.49.070 based on development type that the applicant proposes to utilize for the development proposal.

B. The city of Auburn shall evaluate flexible development submittals provided pursuant to subsection A of this section and provide a written statement identifying whether or not the applicant met the required minimum score and is allowed to utilize flexible development standards outlined in this chapter.

C. A flexible development proposal must demonstrate its compliance with the city of Auburn design and construction standards and any modifications to those standards that the city engineer allows through application of this chapter.

D. Modifications. Any proposed modifications to development projects that have been accepted as flexible development proposals, and that include amendment to a flexible development eligibility feature or flexible development standard called out in the application materials submitted as part of the requirements of subsection A of this section, must be reevaluated through revised application submittals that provide information consistent with the requirements of subsections (A)(1)(a) through (b) of this section.

E. Eligibility Criteria Review and Amendment. The city shall conduct a review of eligibility criteria contained in this chapter one year after adoption of the implementing ordinance. After the initial review, the city may elect to review and modify eligibility criteria contained within this chapter as part of the city’s annual docket process through a legislative nonproject decision pursuant to ACC 14.03.060. (Ord. 6245 § 19, 2009.)

18.49.090 Appeals.

Appeals of administrative decisions regarding eligibility for flexible development shall be made to the hearing examiner as outlined in Chapters 18.66 and 18.70 ACC. (Ord. 6245 § 19, 2009.)