Chapter 20.20
Definitions*

Sections:

20.20.010    A definitions.

20.20.012    B definitions.

20.20.014    C definitions.

20.20.016    D definitions.

20.20.018    E definitions.

20.20.020    F definitions.

20.20.022    G definitions.

20.20.024    H definitions.

20.20.026    I definitions.

20.20.028    J definitions.

20.20.030    K definitions.

20.20.032    L definitions.

20.20.034    M definitions.

20.20.036    N definitions.

20.20.038    O definitions.

20.20.040    P definitions.

20.20.042    Q definitions.

20.20.044    R definitions.

20.20.046    S definitions.

20.20.048    T definitions.

20.20.050    U definitions.

20.20.052    V definitions.

20.20.054    W definitions.

20.20.058    Y definitions.

20.20.060    Z definitions.

*Code reviser’s note: Ordinance 238 provided all of the definitions initially set out in this chapter. History notes following definitions indicate amending ordinances only.

20.20.010 A definitions.

Abandonment

To cease operation for a period of 12 or more consecutive months.

Abate

To repair, replace, remove, destroy or otherwise remedy a condition which constitutes a Code Violation by such means, in such a manner, and to such an extent as the Director determines is necessary in the interest of the general health, safety and welfare of the community and the environment. (Ord. 406 § 1, 2006).

Abut

To physically touch or border upon; or to share a common property line but not overlap.

Access

A way or means of approach to provide vehicular or pedestrian physical entrance to a property.

Access Point

The location of the intersection of a highway or street or driveway with a street.

Access Tract

A piece of real property jointly owned by the fee owners or more than one lot which abuts the tract and which is intended to provide ingress, egress or utility access.

Accessory Structure

A structure detached from a principal building located on the same lot and customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal building or use.

Accessory Use

A use of land or building or portion thereof customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal use of the land or building and located on the same lot with the principal use.

Acre

A measure of land area containing 43,560 square feet.

Adult Cabaret

Any commercial premises, including any cabaret premises, to which any member of the public is invited or admitted and where an entertainer provides live adult entertainment to any member of the public.

Adult Entertainment

A.    Any exhibition, performance or dance of any type conducted in a premises where such exhibition, performance, or dance involves a person who is unclothed or in such costume, attire, or clothing as to expose any portion of the female breast below the top of the areola or any portion of the pubic region, anus, buttocks, vulva or genitals, or wearing any device or covering exposed to view which simulates the appearance of any portion of the female breast below the top of the areola or any portion of the pubic region, anus, buttocks, vulva or genitals, or human male genitals in a discernibly turgid state, even if completely and opaquely covered; or

 

B.    Any exhibition, performance or dance of any type conducted in a premises where such exhibition, performance or dance is distinguished or characterized by a predominant emphasis on the depiction, description, simulation or relation to the following specified sexual activities:

 

1.    Human genitals in a state of sexual stimulation or arousal,

 

2.    Acts of human masturbation, sexual intercourse or sodomy, or

 

3.    Fondling or other erotic touching of human genitals, pubic region, buttocks or female breasts; or

 

C.    Any exhibition, performance or dance which is intended to sexually stimulate any member of the public and which is conducted on a regular basis or as a substantial part of the activity on the premises. This includes, but is not limited to, any such exhibition, performance or dance performed for, arranged with, or engaged in with fewer than all members of the public on the premises at the time, and which is commonly referred to as table dancing, couch dancing, lap dancing, private dancing and straddle dancing.

Adult Family Home

A residential home in which a person or persons provide personal care, special care, room, and board to more than one but not more than six adults who are not related by blood or marriage to the person or persons providing the services and licensed by the State pursuant to Chapter 70.128 RCW, as amended. An adult family home may have up to eight adults if approved by the State. (Ord. 930 § 1 (Exh. A-1), 2021; Ord. 824 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018).

Adult Use Facility

An enterprise predominately involved in the selling, renting or presenting for commercial purposes of books, magazines, motion pictures, films, video cassettes, digital video discs (DVDs), goods, products, clothing, novelties, cable television, live entertainment, performance or activity distinguished or characterized by a predominant emphasis on the depiction, simulation or relation to “specified sexual activities” as defined for observation or use by patrons therein or off-premises. Examples of such facilities include, but are not limited to, adult retail sales, book or video stores, and establishments offering panoramas, peep shows or topless or nude dancing.

Adverse Impact

A condition that creates, imposes, aggravates, or leads to inadequate, unsafe, or unhealthy conditions on a site proposed for development or on off-tract property or facilities.

Affordable Housing

Housing reserved for occupancy to households whose annual income does not exceed a given percent of the King County median income, adjusted for household size, and has housing expenses no greater than 30 percent of the same percentage of median income. (Ord. 907 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020; Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Alley

A service roadway providing a primary or secondary means of automobile, service vehicle or emergency vehicle access to abutting property and not intended for primary traffic or pedestrian circulation.

Alteration

Any human-induced change in an existing condition of a critical area or its buffer. Alterations include, but are not limited to, grading, filling, channelizing, dredging, clearing (vegetation), construction, compaction, excavation, or any other activity that changes the character of the critical area. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Amenity

A natural or created feature that enhances the aesthetic quality, visual appeal, or makes more attractive or satisfying a particular property, place, or area.

American with Disabilities Act (ADA)

A 1990 Federal law designed to bring disabled Americans into the economic mainstream by providing them equal access to jobs, transportation, public facilities, and services.

Anadromous Fish

Fish born in fresh water, which spend most of their lives in the sea and return to fresh water to spawn. Salmon, smelt, shad, striped bass, and sturgeon are common examples. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Annexation

The incorporation of a land area into an existing community with a resulting change in the boundaries of that community.

Antenna

A device used to capture an incoming and/or to transmit an outgoing radio-frequency signal. Antennas include, but are not limited to, the following types: omni-directional (or “whip”), directional (or “panel”), parabolic (or “dish”), and ancillary antennas (antennas not directly used to provide wireless telecommunication services).

Appeal Authority

The hearing body that is authorized to conduct a hearing and issue a decision on an administrative appeal.

Appellant

A person, organization, association or other similar group who files a complete and timely appeal of a City decision.

Applicant

A person who is the owner of the subject property, or the authorized representative of the owner of the subject property, and who has applied for a permit.

Applicant Control Persons

All partners, corporate officers and directors and any other individuals in the applicant’s business organization who hold a significant interest in the panoram business, based on responsibility for management or control of the panoram business, regardless of whether such person’s name appears on corporate filings, license applications, or other official documents of the applicant.

Aquifer

A geological formation, group of formations, or part of a formation that is capable of yielding a significant amount of water to a well or spring. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Aquifer Recharge Areas

Areas that, due to the presence of certain soils, geology, and surface water, act to recharge ground water by percolation. Aquifer recharge areas are only designated as critical areas under WAC 365-190-080(2) when they are determined to have a critical recharging effect on aquifers used for potable water as defined by WAC 365-190-030(2). (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Assisted Living Facilities

Any home or other institution that provides housing, housekeeping services, meals, laundry, activities, and assumes general responsibility for the safety and well-being of the residents, and may also provide domiciliary care, consistent with Chapters 18.20 and 74.39A RCW and Chapter 388-78A WAC, as amended, to seven or more residents. “Assisted living facility” does not include facilities certified as group training homes under RCW 71A.22.040, nor any home, institution, or section that is otherwise licensed and regulated under State law that provides specifically for the licensing and regulation of that home, institution, or section. “Assisted living facility” also does not include senior independent housing, independent living units in continuing care retirement communities, or other similar living situations, including those subsidized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (Ord. 907 § 1 (Exh. B), 2020).

Available Capacity

The number of person trips that can be accommodated by the transportation facilities during the p.m. peak period for current and planned development based on the Transportation Element of the City’s Comprehensive Plan. (Ord. 997 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023; Ord. 689 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014).

 

20.20.012 B definitions.

Balcony

A projecting platform on a building that is either supported from below or cantilevered from the structure; enclosed with a railing or balustrade. (Ord. 871 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Balcony, Juliet

A false balcony, or railing at the outer plane of a window-opening reaching to the floor, and having, when the window is open, the appearance of a balcony. (Ord. 871 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Banner Sign

A sign constructed of cloth, canvas, or other similar lightweight material that can easily be folded or rolled, but does not include paper or cardboard. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Base Flood

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Base Flood Elevation

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Basement

Any area of the building having its floor subgrade (below ground level) on all sides.

Bed and Breakfast

Overnight accommodations and a morning meal in a dwelling unit provided to transients for compensation.

Beehive

A structure designed to contain one colony of honey bees (Apis mellifera).

Best Available Science

Current scientific information used in the process to designate, protect, mitigate impacts to, or restore critical areas, that is derived from a valid scientific process as defined by and consistent with the criteria established in Chapter 365-195 WAC. (Ord. 930 § 1 (Exh. A-1), 2021; Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Best Management Practices (BMPs)

A system of practices and management measures that minimize adverse impacts to an identified resource.

BMP Manual

(Repealed by Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Billboard

A sign, including both the supporting structural framework and attached billboard faces, used principally for advertising a business activity, use, product, or service unrelated to the primary use or activity of the property on which the billboard is located; excluding off-premises directional, or temporary real estate signs.

Binding Site Plan

A process that may be used to divide commercially and industrially zoned property, as authorized by State law. The binding site plan ensures, through written agreements among all lot owners, that the collective lots continue to function as one site concerning but not limited to: lot access, interior circulation, open space, landscaping and drainage; facility maintenance, and coordinated parking. It may include a plan drawn to scale, which identifies and shows the areas and locations of all streets, roads, improvements, utilities, open spaces, critical areas, parking areas, landscaped areas, surveyed topography, water bodies and drainage features and building envelopes. (Ord. 695 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014).

Biologist

A person who has earned at least a Bachelor of Science degree in the biological sciences from an accredited college or university or who has equivalent educational training and experience.

Bond

A financial guarantee in the form of a surety bond, cash deposit, escrow account assignment of savings, irrevocable letter of credit or other means acceptable to, or required by, the Director to guarantee work is in compliance with all applicable requirements. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Boulevard Street

Superseded by Ord. 654. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Brewpub

An eating establishment that includes the brewing of beer as an accessory use. The brewery shall not produce more than 1,500 barrels of beer or ale per year. (Ord. 789 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018).

Buffer

A designated area contiguous to and for the protection of a critical area, which is required for the continued maintenance, functioning and/or structural stability of a critical area. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Buildable Area

The area of a lot remaining after the minimum yard and open space requirements of the Development Code have been met, not including critical areas and their buffers.

Building

Any structure having a roof supported by columns or walls and intended for the shelter, housing, or enclosure of any individual, animal, process, equipment, goods, or materials of any kind.

Building Articulation

The emphasis to architectural elements (like windows, balconies, entries, etc.) that create a complementary pattern or rhythm, dividing large buildings into smaller identifiable pieces. See SMC 20.50.250 for applicable standards. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Building Coverage

The percentage of the horizontal area as measured from that area within the exterior walls or columns of all buildings on a lot to the total lot area. (Ord. 850 § 1 (Exh. A), 2019).

Building Scale

The relationship of a particular building, in terms of building mass, to other nearby and adjacent buildings.

Built Green™

Built Green™ is a residential building program of the Master Builders Association developed in partnership with King and Snohomish Counties. The program provides builders, developers and consumers with easy-to-understand rating systems that quantify environmentally preferable building practices for the remodeling or construction of homes, multifamily units, and community developments. Based on the green building scores received, a home is classified as a three-, four- or five-star Built Green™ project. (Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

20.20.014 C definitions.

Caliper

American Nursery and Landscape Association standard for measurement of the diameter of a tree trunk. Caliper of the trunk shall be measured six inches above the ground.

Camouflaged, Wireless Telecommunication Facility

A wireless telecommunication facility that is disguised, hidden, or integrated with an existing structure that is not a monopole, guyed, or lattice tower, or placed within an existing or proposed structure.

Card Room

(Repealed by Ord. 258 § 2, 2000).

Cattery

A place where adult cats are temporarily boarded for compensation, whether or not for training. An adult cat is of either sex, altered or unaltered, that has reached the age of six months.

Cemetery

Property used for the interring of the dead.

Certified Arborist

A person or firm with specialized knowledge of the horticultural requirements of trees, certified by the International Society of Arboriculture or by the American Society of Consulting Arborists as a registered consulting arborist. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Check-Cashing Services and Payday Lending

Any person or entity engaged in the business of high interest short-term lending, cashing checks, drafts, or money orders for a fee, service charge, or other consideration. (Ord. 901 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Church, Synagogue or Temple

A place where religious services are conducted, and including accessory uses in the primary or accessory buildings such as religious education, reading rooms, assembly rooms, and residences for nuns and clergy. This definition does not include facilities for training of religious orders.

City

City of Shoreline, Washington.

City Council

The City of Shoreline City Council.

Clearing

The limbing, pruning, trimming, topping, cutting or removal of vegetation or other organic plant matter by physical, mechanical, chemical or other means.

Clerk

The City of Shoreline employee or agent appointed by the Mayor as licensing official.

Coastal High Hazard Area

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Code Violation

An act or omission contrary to:

A.    Any ordinance of the City, or State or Federal laws that regulate or protect the public health or the use and development of land or water, whether or not such law or ordinance is codified; and/or

B.    The conditions of any permit, notice and order or stop work order issued pursuant to any such law or ordinance.

Co-location, Wireless Telecommunication Facility

The use of a single support structure and/or site by more than one wireless communications provider.

Community Residential Facility (CRF)

(Repealed by Ord. 824 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018).

Compensatory Mitigation

Replacing project-induced losses or impacts to a critical area, and includes but is not limited to creation, restoration, reestablishment, enhancement, and preservation. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Concurrency

The provision of adequate public facilities that are in place or will be completed no later than six years after occupancy of development. (Ord. 997 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023; Ord. 689 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014).

Concurrency Test – Transportation

A comparison of the number of person trips that will be generated during the p.m. peak period by development to the available capacity of transportation facilities. (Ord. 997 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023; Ord. 689 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014).

Concurrency Trip Capacity Balance Sheet – Transportation

The document created and maintained by the City to record the available capacity, reservations of capacity, and the balance of the available capacity that has been adjusted to reflect reserved person trips. (Ord. 997 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023; Ord. 689 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014).

Conditional Use

A use permitted in a particular zoning district upon showing that such use in a specified location will comply with all the conditions and standards for the location or operation of the use as specified in the Development Code and authorized by the approving agency.

Conditional Use Permit (CUP)

A permit by the approving agency stating that the conditional use meets all conditions set forth in local ordinances.

Condominium

A building, or group of buildings, in which dwelling units, offices, or floor area are owned individually, and the structure, common areas, and facilities are owned by all the owners on a proportional, undivided basis.

Conference Center

An establishment developed primarily as a meeting facility, including only facilities for recreation, overnight lodging, and related activities provided for conference participants.

Conservation Easement

A legal agreement that the property owner enters into to restrict uses of the land. Such restrictions can include, but are not limited to, passive recreation uses such as trails or scientific uses and fences or other barriers to protect habitat. The easement is recorded on a property deed, runs with the land, and is legally binding on all present and future owners of the property, therefore providing permanent or long-term protection. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Consultant, Qualified

A person who is licensed to practice in the professional field of the requested consultation or who has equivalent educational training and at least four years of professional experience.

Contiguous

Next to, abutting, or touching and having a boundary, or portion thereof, in common.

Contract Rezone

A concomitant agreement between the City and applicant, subject to development conditions, designed to achieve consistency with the Comprehensive Plan and to mitigate potential impacts of the rezone and resulting development.

Corridor, Transportation

A transportation corridor is a significant arterial or highway which is the primary route for inter-community travel in a metropolitan area or region. Transportation corridors typically accommodate a high percentage or regional commercial and mass transit use.

Corridor, Wildlife or Open Space

Wildlife or open space corridor are a series of undeveloped or minimally developed, interconnected public and private lands that supports the successful function of existing natural systems, provide opportunities for passive and active recreation (where appropriate), and enhances opportunities for wildlife mobility.

Corridor, Wireless Telecommunication Facility

A linear strip of land through the City, usually having a major street, road or other type of right-of-way running through its spine or center. A “communications corridor” represents a high-volume traffic facility (e.g., I-5) along which are found several personal wireless service facilities.

Cottage

A dwelling unit located in a cottage housing development that is no greater than 1,500 square feet in gross floor area. (Ord. 984 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023)

Cottage Housing

(Repealed by Ord. 408 § 1, 2006).

Cottage Housing Development

A residential development consisting of a minimum of two and a maximum of 24 cottages that comply with cottage development standards. (Ord. 984 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023)

Critical Areas

An area or ecosystem with one or more of the following environmental characteristics:

 

A.    Geologic hazard areas, including but not limited to:

 

1.    Landslide hazard areas,

 

2.    Seismic hazard areas, and

 

3.    Erosion hazard areas;

 

B.    Fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas;

 

C.    Wetlands;

 

D.    Flood hazard areas; and

 

E.    Aquifer recharge areas. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015; Ord. 398 § 1, 2006; Ord. 352 § 1, 2004).

Critical Drainage Area

(Repealed by Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Critical Root Zone (CRZ)

The area, as defined by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), equal to one-foot radius from the base of the tree’s trunk for each one inch of the tree’s diameter at 4.5 feet above grade (referred to as diameter at breast height). Example: A 24-inch diameter tree would have a critical root zone radius (CRZ) of 24 feet. The total protection zone, including trunk, would be 50 feet in diameter. This area is also called the tree protection zone (TPZ). The CRZ area is not synonymous with the dripline. (Ord. 955 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).

Critical Root Zone, Inner

The area, as defined by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), encircling the base of a tree equal to one-half the diameter of the critical root zone. This area may also be referred to as the interior critical root zone. Disturbance of this area would cause significant impact to the tree, potentially life threatening, and would require maximum post-damage treatment to retain the tree. (Ord. 955 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).

Crosswalkway

A right-of-way dedicated to public use, 10 feet or more in width, which cuts across a block to facilitate pedestrian access to adjacent streets and properties.

Cul-de-sac

The bulb shaped turnaround at the end of a dead-end street.

Curb

A cement, concrete or other improved boundary designed to delineate the edge of the street and to separate the vehicular portion from that provided for pedestrians.

20.20.016 D definitions.

Daycare

An establishment for group care of nonresident adults or children.

 

A.    Daycare shall include adult daycare centers and the following:

 

1.    Adult daycare, such as adult day health centers or social daycare as defined by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services;

 

2.    Nursery schools for children under minimum age for education in public schools;

 

3.    Privately conducted kindergartens or pre-kindergartens when not a part of a public or parochial school; and

 

4.    Programs covering after-school care for school children.

B.    Daycare establishments are subclassified as follows:

 

1.    Daycare I – a maximum of 12 adults or children in any 24-hour period; and

 

2.    Daycare II – over 12 adults or children in any 24-hour period.

Decision Making Authority

The Director, City Council, or other entity created by the Council of the City to hear and decide applications as identified in the Development Code of the City.

Dedication

A conveyance of land by the owner of the land to some public use through a clause or covenant in a deed or some other instrument of conveyance or a duly filed plat.

Deed

A legal document conveying ownership of real property.

Deep Green

Refers to an advanced level of green building that requires more stringent standards for energy and water use, stormwater runoff, site development, materials, and indoor air quality than required by the Building Code. With regard to the Deep Green Incentive Program, this definition is divided into tiers based on certification programs as follows:

•    Tier 1 – International Living Future Institute’s (ILFI) Living Building ChallengeTM or Living Community ChallengeTM;

•    Tier 2 – ILFI’s Petal RecognitionTM or Built Green’s Emerald StarTM;

•    Tier 3 – US Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) PlatinumTM; Built Green’s 5-StarTM; or ILFI’s Zero EnergyTM (ZE) or Passive House Institute US’s (PHIUS)+Shift ZeroTM, in combination with Salmon SafeTM where applicable; and

•    Tier 4 – Built Green’s 4-StarTM or PHIUS+TM. (Ord. 839 § 1 (Exh. A), 2019; Ord. 760 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017).

Density

The number of families, individuals, dwelling units, households, or housing structures per unit of land.

Density, Base

The base density is a number calculated by multiplying the site area (in acres) by the applicable number of dwelling units.

Department

Planning and Community Development Department. (Ord. 695 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014).

Design

The appearance of a structure including such features as material, color, and shape.

Design Standards

A set of guidelines defining parameters to be followed in site and/or building design and development.

Detached

Buildings with exterior walls separated by a distance of five feet. To be consistent with this definition, projections between buildings must be separated by a minimum of three feet. (Ord. 581 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2010).

Developer

The person or entity who owns or holds purchase options or other development control over property for which development activity is proposed.

Development

The division of a parcel of land into two or more parcels; the construction, reconstruction, conversion, structural alteration, relocation, or enlargement of any structure; any mining, clearing, or grading; changes to surface or ground waters; or any use, change of use, or extension of the use of land. (Ord. 324 § 1, 2003).

Development Agreement

A contract between the City and an applicant having ownership or control of property, or a public agency. The purpose of the development agreement is to set forth the development standards and other provisions that shall apply to, govern and vest the development, use, and mitigation of real property within the City for the duration specified in the agreement and shall be consistent with the applicable development regulations and the goals and policies in the Comprehensive Plan. (Ord. 741 § 1 (Exh. A), 2016; Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Deviation to the Engineering Standards

A mechanism to allow the City to grant an adjustment or exception to the application of engineering standards. (Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Diameter/Diameter-breast-height (d.b.h.)

The diameter of any tree trunk, measured at four and one-half feet above average grade. For species of trees whose normal growth habit is characterized by multiple stems (e.g., hazelnut, vine maple) diameter shall mean the average diameter of all stems of the tree, measured at a point six inches from the point where the stems digress from the main trunk. In no case shall a branch more than six inches above average grade be considered a stem. For the purposes of Code enforcement, if a tree has been removed and only the stump remains, the size of the tree shall be diameter of the top of the stump.

Director

Planning and Community Development Director or designee. (Ord. 695 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014; Ord. 581 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2010; Ord. 406 § 1, 2006).

Dripline

An area encircling the base of a tree, the minimum extent of which is delineated by a vertical line extending from the outer limit of a tree’s branch tips down to the ground.

Driveway

A privately maintained access to a single residential, commercial or industrial property.

Driveway, Shared

A jointly owned and maintained tract or easement serving up to four dwelling units. (Ord. 789 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018; Ord. 731 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Dwelling, Apartment

A building containing multiple dwelling units that are located above other dwelling units or above commercial spaces. Apartments are not considered single-family attached dwellings. (Ord. 789 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018; Ord. 767 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017).

Dwelling, Duplex

A house containing two individual single-family dwelling units that are separated from each other by one-hour fire wall or floor but not including approved accessory dwelling unit. (Ord. 767 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017).

Dwelling, Live/Work

A structure or portion of a structure: (1) that combines a residential dwelling with a commercial use in a space for an activity that is allowed in the zone; and (2) where the commercial or manufacturing activity conducted takes place subject to a valid business license associated with the premises. (Ord. 767 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017; Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Dwelling, Multifamily

Multifamily dwellings are separate housing units contained within one building or several buildings within one complex. Multifamily dwellings may have units located above other units. Apartments and mixed-use buildings with apartments are considered multifamily dwellings. (Ord. 767 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017; Ord. 631 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2012; Ord. 299 § 1, 2002).

Dwelling, Single-Family Attached

A building containing more than one dwelling unit attached by common vertical wall(s), such as townhouse(s), rowhouse(s), and duplex(es). Single-family attached dwellings shall not have units located one over another (except duplexes may be one unit over the other). (Ord. 767 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017; Ord. 469 § 1, 2007).

Dwelling, Single-Family Detached

A house containing one dwelling unit that is not attached to any other dwelling, except approved accessory dwelling unit. (Ord. 767 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017).

Dwelling Unit

Residential living facility, used, intended or designed to provide physically segregated complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, including living, sleeping, cooking and sanitation facilities. A dwelling unit is to be distinguished from lodging, such as hotel/motel or dormitory. (Ord. 391 § 4, 2005; Ord. 299 § 1, 2002).

20.20.018 E definitions.

Early Notice

The City’s response to an applicant stating whether it considers issuance of a determination of significance likely for the applicant’s proposal (mitigated determination of non significance (DNS) procedures).

Easement

A grant by the property owner of the use of a strip of land by the public, corporation or persons for specific purposes.

Egress

An exit.

Electric Vehicle Parking Space

Any marked parking space that identifies the use to be exclusively for the parking of an electric vehicle. (Ord. 663 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2013).

Elevation

A.    A vertical distance above or below a fixed reference level;

 

B.    A fully dimensioned drawing of the front, rear, or side of a building showing features such as windows, doors, and relationship of grade to floor level.

Emergency

A situation which requires immediate action to prevent or eliminate an immediate threat to the health or safety of persons, property, or the environment.

Emergency Temporary Shelter

A facility, the primary purpose of which is to provide accommodations and may also provide essential services for homeless individuals or families during emergency situations, such as severe weather conditions or other emergency events, for a limited period. This term does not include transitional encampments or homeless shelters. (Ord. 907 § 1 (Exh. C), 2020).

Engineer

A professional engineer licensed to practice in the State of Washington.

Engineer, City

(Repealed by Ord. 789 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018).

Engineering Geologist

A person licensed by the State of Washington as a professional geologist with an engineering geologist endorsement who specializes in evaluating geologic site characteristics to determine the response of geologic processes and materials to development activities, such as removal of vegetation, site grading, buildings, and civil works. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Enhanced Services Facility

A facility that provides treatment and services to persons for whom acute inpatient treatment is not medically necessary and who have been determined by the Department of Social and Health Services to be inappropriate for placement in other licensed facilities due to the complex needs that result in behavioral and security issues and is licensed pursuant to Chapter 70.97 RCW. (Ord. 882 § 1 (Exh. C), 2020).

Enhanced Shelter

A 24-hour-a-day facility which is open to adults experiencing homelessness regardless of prior criminal history, addiction or mental health challenges as long as the individual is able to live safely in the community with others and abide by established program rules. The purpose is to provide safe shelter and access to resources including, but not limited to, housing, basic needs, hygiene, case management and social programs as they transition to permanent housing. (Ord. 929 § 1 (Exh. A), 2021).

Enhancements

Alteration of an existing resource to improve or increase its characteristics and processes without degrading other existing functions. Enhancements are to be distinguished from mitigation projects. (Ord. 789 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018; Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Entry

Means a door where a person enters a building. (Ord. 871 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Equipment Enclosure, Wireless Telecommunication Facility

A small structure, shelter, cabinet, or vault used to house and protect the electronic equipment necessary for processing wireless communications signals. Associated equipment may include air conditioning and emergency generators.

Erosion

The wearing away of the land surface by running water, wind, ice, or other geological agents, including such processes as gravitational creep. Also, detachment and movement of soil or rock fragments by water, wind, ice, or gravity. (Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Erosion Hazard Areas

Those areas in the City of Shoreline underlain by soils and with characteristic topography, which are subject to severe erosion when disturbed. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Evaluation and Treatment Facility

Any facility which can provide directly, or by direct arrangement with other public or private agencies, emergency evaluation and treatment, outpatient care, and timely and appropriate inpatient care to persons suffering from a mental disorder, and which is licensed or certified, if required, as such by the State of Washington pursuant to Chapter 71.05 RCW. No correctional institution or facility, or jail, shall be an evaluation and treatment facility. (Ord. 882 § 1 (Exh. C), 2020).

Excessive Pruning

Pruning more than 25 percent of the tree canopy in one growing season or over a five-year period, unless necessary to restore the vigor of the tree or to protect life and property. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

20.20.020 F definitions.

Facade

The front or face of a building emphasized architecturally.

Family

An individual; two or more persons living together as a single housekeeping unit; or a group living arrangement where residents receive supportive services such as counseling, foster care, or medical supervision at the dwelling unit by resident or nonresident staff. (Ord. 959 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Floodway

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Fence

A barrier for the purpose of enclosing space or separating lots, composed of:

 

A.    Masonry or concrete walls, excluding retaining walls; or

 

B.    Wood, metal or concrete posts connected by boards, rails, panels, wire or mesh.

Fenestration

The design and placement of windows, doors and other exterior openings in a building. Garage doors are not considered fenestration. (Ord. 871 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas

Areas, as designated by SMC 20.80.270, necessary to maintain populations of species in suitable habitats within their natural geographic distribution so that the habitat available is sufficient to support viable populations over the long term and isolated subpopulations are not created. May also be referred to as habitat conservation areas. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Fish Habitat

Habitat that is used by fish at any life stage at any time of the year, including potential habitat likely to be used by fish that could be recovered by restoration or management and includes off-channel habitat. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Fleet Base, Major

A location where vehicles equal to or greater than 30 feet in length are stored, repaired, maintained, and dispatched. (Ord. 999 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024).

Fleet Base, Minor

A location where vehicles less than 30 feet in length are stored, repaired, maintained, and dispatched. (Ord. 999 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024).

Flood

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Flood Fringe

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Flood Hazard Areas

Those areas in the city of Shoreline identified as special flood hazard areas and protected areas as defined in Chapter 13.12 SMC, which comprise the regulatory floodplain. (Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Flood Insurance Study for King County

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Flood Protection Elevation

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Floodplain

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Floodproofing

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Floodway

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Floodway, Zero-rise

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Floor Area, Gross

The sum of the gross horizontal areas of the several floors of a building or structure from the exterior face of exterior walls, or from the centerline of a wall separating two buildings, but excluding any space where the floor-to-ceiling height is less than six feet.

Floor Area Ratio (FAR)

The gross floor area of all buildings or structures on a lot divided by the total lot area.

Franchise

A contractual agreement, under the authority of State law, between a utility and the City setting forth the Terms and conditions under which the City grants the utility authority to install and maintain facilities in the public rights-of-way.

Frontage Zone

The area adjacent to the property line where transitions between the public sidewalk and the space within buildings occur. (Ord. 997 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023).

Frontages

Facilities between the curb and private development along streets – typically curbs, amenities, and sidewalks. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Functions and Values

The beneficial roles served by critical areas and their buffers including, but not limited to, water quality protection and enhancement; fish and wildlife habitat; food chain support; flood storage, conveyance, and attenuation; ground water recharge and discharge; erosion control; wave attenuation; protection from hazards; historical, archaeological, and aesthetic value protection; educational opportunities; and recreation. These beneficial roles are not listed in order of priority. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

20.20.022 G definitions.

Gambling Use

One of those gambling activities regulated by the State which involve staking or risking something of value upon the outcome of a contest of chance or a future contingent event not under the person’s control or influence, upon an agreement or understanding that the person or someone else will receive something of value in the event of a certain outcome. Gambling Uses include those uses regulated by the Washington State Horse Racing Commission and the Washington State Gambling Commission with the following exceptions as these uses are defined in Chapter 9.46 RCW:

•    Punch boards and pull tabs

•    Bingo and joint bingo games operated by bona fide not-for-profit organizations

•    Commercial amusement games

•    Raffles

•    Fund raising events

 

•    Business promotional contests of chance

•    Sports pools and turkey shoots

•    Golfing and bowling sweepstakes

•    Dice or coin games for music, food, or beverages

 

•    Fishing derbies

•    Bona fide business transactions

•    Activities regulated by the State Lottery Commission (Ord. 258 § 1, 2000).

Garbage

(Repealed by Ord. 251 § 2(B), 2000).

Geologic Hazard Areas

Critical areas which are susceptible to erosion, land sliding, seismic, or other geological events as designated by SMC 20.80.210. These areas may not be suited for development activities, because they may pose a threat to public health and safety. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Geologist

A person trained in geological sciences and licensed by the State of Washington as a professional geologist. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Geotechnical Engineer

A practicing geotechnical/civil engineer licensed as a professional civil engineer by the State of Washington who has at least four years of professional employment as a geotechnical engineer.

Grade

A.    The average elevation of the land around a building;

 

B.    The percent of rise or descent of a sloping surface.

 

C.    Leveling or clearing land, a land disturbing activity.

Grade, Existing

The elevation of the ground surface in its natural state, before construction, grading, filling, or excavation.

Grading

The movement or redistribution, including excavation, filling, or removing, of the soil, sand, rock, gravel, sediment, duff layer or other material on a site in a manner that alters the natural contour of the land. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Greenlink Street

Superseded by Ord. 654. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Groundcover

Living plants designed to grow low to the ground (generally one foot or less) and intended to stabilize soils and protect against erosion.

Guyed Tower

A monopole or lattice tower that is tied to the ground or other surface by diagonal cables.

20.20.024 H definitions.

Habitats of Local Importance

Areas identified as important by the City and designated as fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas that include a seasonal range or habitat element with which a given species has a primary association, and which, if altered, may reduce the likelihood that the species will maintain and reproduce over the long term. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Handheld Equipment

Equipment such as shovels or chainsaws that are compact enough to be used or operated while being held in the hand or hands. Does not include equipment operated on the ground by pushing or self-propulsion such as lawn mowers or rototillers. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Hardscape

Any structure or other covering on or above the ground that includes materials commonly used in building construction such as wood, asphalt and concrete, and also includes, but is not limited to, all structures, decks and patios, paving including gravel, pervious or impervious concrete and asphalt. Retaining walls, gravel, or paver paths less than four feet wide with open spacing are not considered hardscape. Artificial turf with subsurface drain fields and decks that drain to soil underneath have a 50 percent hardscape and 50 percent pervious value. Coverings that allow growth of vegetation between components with the ability to drain to soil underneath have a hardscape percent pervious value as determined by the Director based on the manufacturer’s specifications, which shall be provided by the applicant. (Ord. 959 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022; Ord. 789 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018; Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Hardscape Area

The total area of a lot or parcel that is covered by hardscape features and surfaces. (Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Hazardous Substance

Any liquid, solid, gas, or sludge, including any material, substance, product, commodity, or waste, regardless of quantity, that exhibits any of the physical, chemical, or biological properties described in WAC 173-303-090 or 173-303-100. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Height, Base

The height of a structure measured from the average existing grade to the highest point of the roof.

Helistop

An area on a roof or on the ground used for the takeoff and landing of helicopters for the purpose of loading or unloading passengers or cargo but not including fueling service, hangars, maintenance or overhaul facilities.

High-Capacity Transit Center

High-capacity transit centers are facilities for light rail, commuter rail, or bus rapid transit. A high-capacity transit center may provide parking lots, parking garages, real-time schedule information, lighting, benches, restrooms, food and drink, shelters and trash cans. Other features may include real-time information, special lighting or shelter design, public art and bicycle parking. (Ord. 741 § 1 (Exh. A), 2016).

High-use Site

High-use sites are those that typically generate high concentrations of oil due to high traffic turnover or the frequent transfer of oil. High-use sites include:

 

A.    An area of a commercial or industrial site subject to an expected average daily traffic (ADT) count equal to or greater than 100 vehicles per 1,000 square feet of gross building area;

 

B.    An area of a commercial or industrial site subject to petroleum storage and transfer in excess of 1,500 gallons per year, not including routinely delivered heating oil;

 

C.    An area of a commercial or industrial site subject to parking, storage or maintenance of 25 or more vehicles that are over 10 tons gross weight (trucks, buses, trains, heavy equipment, etc.); or

 

D.    A road intersection with a measured ADT count of 25,000 vehicles or more on the main roadway and 15,000 vehicles or more on any intersecting roadway, excluding projects proposing primarily pedestrian or bicycle use improvements. (Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Home Industry

A limited-scale sales, service or fabrication activity undertaken for financial gain, which occurs in a dwelling unit or residential accessory building, or in a barn or other resource accessory building and is subordinate to the primary use of the premises as a residence or farm.

Home Occupation

Any activity carried out for gain by a resident and conducted as a customary, incidental, and accessory use in the resident’s dwelling unit.

Homeless Shelter

A facility operated within a building to provide short-term, temporary or transitional housing for individuals or families who are otherwise homeless and have no immediate living options available to them. Such facilities may provide support services, food, and other services as an accessory use. (Ord. 850 § 1 (Exh. A), 2019).

Host Agency

A public agency; a State of Washington registered nonprofit corporation; a federally recognized tax exempt 501(c)(3) organization; or a religious organization, as defined in RCW 35A.21.360, that invites a transitional encampment to reside on the land that they own or lease. (Ord. 959 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022; Ord. 762 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017).

Household Income

Includes all income that would be included as income for federal income tax purposes (e.g., wages, interest income) from all household members over the age of 18 that reside in the dwelling unit for more than three months of the year. (Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Household Pets

Small animals that are kept within a dwelling unit.

Housing Expenses, Ownership Housing

Includes mortgage, mortgage insurance, property taxes, property insurances, and homeowner’s dues. (Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Housing Expenses, Rental Housing

Includes rent and appropriate utility allowance. (Ord. 959 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022; Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

20.20.026 I definitions.

Impervious Surface

A nonvegetated surface area which either prevents or retards the entry of water into the soil mantle as under natural conditions prior to development. A hard surface area which causes water to run off the surface in greater quantities or at an increased rate of flow from the flow present under natural conditions prior to development. Common impervious surfaces include, but are not limited to, roof tops, walkways, patios, driveways, parking lots or storage areas, concrete or asphalt paving, gravel roads, packed earthen materials, and oiled, macadam or other surfaces which similarly impede the natural infiltration of stormwater. (Ord. 767 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017; Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Infiltration Rate

(Repealed by Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Ingress

Access or entry.

Invasive Species

Any nonnative organisms that cause economic or environmental harm and are capable of spreading to new areas of the State. Invasive species do not include domestic livestock, intentionally planted agronomic crops, or nonharmful exotic organisms. Invasive species include but are not limited to noxious weeds. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Issued

The date a recommendation or decision is mailed to the parties of record.

20.20.028 J definitions.

Junk Vehicle

A vehicle certified under RCW 46.55.230 as meeting at least three of the following requirements:

 

A.    Is three years old or older;

 

B.    Is extensively damaged, such damage including but not limited to any of the following: A broken window or windshield or missing wheels, tires, motor or transmission;

 

C.    Is apparently inoperable, including a condition which makes the vehicle incapable of being operated legally on a public highway;

 

D.    Has an approximate fair market value equal only to the approximate value of the scrap in it. (Ord. 907 § 1, (Exh. B), 2020).

20.20.030 K definitions.

Kennel

A place where adult dogs are temporarily boarded for compensation, whether or not for training. An adult dog is one of either sex, altered or unaltered, that has reached the age of six months.

20.20.032 L definitions.

Land Surveyor

See Surveyor.

Land Use Application

Any application for a land use action undertaken in accordance with the Development Code of the City of Shoreline.

Land Use Decision

A final determination by the City as defined in State law.

Landfill

A disposal site or part of a site at which refuse is deposited.

Landing

A road or driveway approach area to any public area or private road.

Lands Covered by Water

All lands underlying the water areas of the State below the ordinary high water mark, including salt waters, tidal waters, estuarine waters, natural watercourses, lakes, ponds, artificially impounded waters, and wetlands consistent with WAC 197-11-756. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Landscape Architect

A person licensed by the State of Washington to engage in the practice of landscape architecture as defined by RCW 18.96.030.

Landscape Structure

A frame supporting open latticework or beams and open rafters, such as an arbor, pergola, or trellis. Landscape structures are often used as a screen or a support for growing vines or climbing plants, an entry feature with an arch, or to better define an outdoor space. They may be freestanding or attached to another structure. (Ord. 850 § 1 (Exh. A), 2019).

Landscape Water Features

A pond, pool or fountain used as a decorative component of a development.

Landscaping

Live vegetative materials required for a development. Said materials provided along the boundaries of a development site is referred to as perimeter landscaping.

Landslide

Episodic downslide movement of a mass including, but not limited to, soil, rock or snow.

Landslide Hazard Areas

Those areas in the City of Shoreline subject to severe risks of landslides based on a combination of geologic, topographic and hydrologic factors. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Lattice Tower

A type of mount that is self-supporting with multiple legs and cross-bracing of structural metal.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)

The LEED Green Building Rating System™ is a consensus-based national standard for developing high-performance, sustainable buildings. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) offers this rating system, which certifies projects as LEED Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum based on the number of points achieved. LEED rating systems are available for new construction, existing buildings, homes, schools, healthcare facilities, tenant improvements, and neighborhood developments. (Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Level of Service

The established minimum capacity of public facilities or services that must be provided per unit of demand or other appropriate measure of need. (Ord. 997 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023).

Level of Service Standard – Transportation

The levels of service set forth in SMC 20.60.140. (Ord. 997 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023; Ord. 689 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014).

Licensed Carrier

A company authorized by the FCC to build and operate a commercial mobile radio services system.

Light Rail Transit Facility

A light rail transit facility is a type of essential public facility and refers to any structure, rail track, equipment, maintenance base or other improvement of a light rail transit system, including but not limited to ventilation structures, traction power substations, light rail transit stations, parking garages, park-and-ride lots, and transit station access facilities. (Ord. 741 § 1 (Exh. A), 2016; Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Light Rail Transit System

A light rail transit system is a type of essential public facility and refers to any public rail transit line that provides high-capacity, regional transit service owned or operated by a regional transit authority authorized under Chapter 81.112 RCW. (Ord. 741 § 1 (Exh. A), 2016; Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Livestock, Large

Cattle, horses, and other livestock generally weighing over 500 pounds.

Livestock, Small

Hogs, excluding pigs weighing under 120 pounds and standing 20 inches or less at the shoulder which are kept as household pets or small animals, sheep, goats, miniature horses, llamas, alpaca and other livestock generally weighing under 500 pounds.

Living Building™

Generates all of its own energy with renewable resources, captures and treats all of its water, and operates efficiently and for maximum beauty. With regard to the Deep Green Incentive Program, it refers specifically to the International Living Future Institute’s Living Building Challenge™ or Living Community Challenge™ programs, which are comprised of seven performance areas. These areas, or “petals”, are place, water, energy, health and happiness, materials, equity, and beauty. (Ord. 760 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017).

Living Green Wall

A vertical garden that is attached to the exterior of a building and has a growing medium, such as soil, water or a substrate. Most green walls include an integrated water delivery system. (Ord. 871 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Loading Space

A space for the temporary parking of a vehicle while loading or unloading cargo or passengers.

Loop

Road of limited length forming a loop, having no other intersecting road, and functioning mainly as direct access to abutting properties. A loop may be designated for one-way or two-way traffic.

Lot

A designated parcel, tract, or area of land established by plat, subdivision, or as otherwise permitted by law, to be separately owned, used, developed, or built upon.

Lot Area

The total area within the lot lines of a lot, excluding any street rights-of-way.

Lot Coverage

That portion of the lot that is covered by buildings.

Lot Depth

The average distance measured from the front lot line to the rear lot line.

Lot Frontage

The length of the front lot line measured at the street right-of-way line.

Lot Line

A line of record bounding a lot that divides one lot from another lot or from a public or private street or any other public space.

Lot Line, Front

The lot line separating a lot from a street right-of-way, or as designated at the time of subdivision approval.

Lot Line, Rear

The lot line opposite and most distant from the front lot line. In the case of triangular or otherwise irregularly shaped lots, a line 10 feet in length entirely within the lot, parallel to and at a maximum distance from the front lot line.

Lot Line, Side

Any lot line other than a front or rear lot line.

Lot of Record

A lot that exists as shown or described on a plat or deed in the records of the local registry of deeds.

Lot Width

Lot width determined by lot width circle within the boundaries of the lot; provided, that no access easements are included within the circle.

Lot Width Circle

A circle scaled within a lot which establishes lot width and depth ratios.

Lot, Corner

A lot or parcel of land having frontage on two or more streets at their intersection or upon two parts of the same street forming an interior angle of less than 135 degrees.

Lot, Flag

A large lot not meeting minimum frontage requirements and where access to the public road is by a narrow, private right-of-way or driveway.

Lot, Interior

A lot other than a corner lot.

Lot, Minimum Area Of

The smallest lot area established by the Code on which a use or structure may be located in a particular district.

Lot, Through

A lot that fronts upon two parallel streets or that fronts upon two streets that do not intersect at the boundaries of the lot.

20.20.034 M definitions.

Managing Agency

An organization that has the capacity to organize and manage a transitional encampment. A managing agency must be a public agency; a State of Washington registered nonprofit corporation; a federally recognized tax exempt 501(c)(3) organization; a religious organization as defined in RCW 35A.21.360; or a self-managed homeless community. A managing agency may be the same organization as the host agency. (Ord. 959 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022; Ord. 762 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017).

Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)

A manual that sets forth the basic principles that govern the design and usage of traffic control devices published by the Federal Highway Administration, United States Department of Transportation.

Manufactured Home

A structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is built on a permanent chassis and is designed for use with or without a permanent foundation when attached to the required utilities. The term “manufactured home” does not include a recreational vehicle. (Ord. 907 § 1 (Exh. B), 2020).

Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision

A parcel (or contiguous parcels) of land divided into two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale.

Marine Environment/Marine Waters

Aquatic lands and waters under tidal influence, including salt waters and estuaries to the ordinary high water mark. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Master Development Plan

A plan that establishes site-specific development standards for an area designated campus zone. Master development plans incorporate proposed development, redevelopment and/or expansion of uses as authorized in this Code. (Ord. 882 § 1 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 507 § 4, 2008).

Median Income

The median income for King County determined by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under Section 8(f)(3) of the United States Housing Act of 1937, as amended. (Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Microbrewery

A facility for the production and packaging of alcoholic beverages for distribution, retail, or wholesale, or consumption on or off premises. Production is limited to no more than 15,000 barrels per year. The development may include other uses such as a standard restaurant, bar or live entertainment as otherwise permitted in the zoning district. (Ord. 789 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018).

Microdistillery

A small operation that produces distilled spirits of no more than 4,800 barrels per year. In addition to production, tastings and sales of products for on or off premises are allowed. The development may include other uses such as a standard restaurant, bar or live entertainment as otherwise permitted in the zoning district. (Ord. 789 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018).

Microhousing

Microhousing is defined as a structure that contains single room living spaces with a maximum floor area of 350 square feet. These spaces contain a private bedroom and may have private bathrooms and kitchenettes (microwave, sink, and small refrigerator). Full scale kitchens are not included in the single room living spaces. These single room living spaces share a common full scale kitchen (stove, oven, full-sized or multiple refrigeration/freezers); and may share other common areas such as bathroom and shower/bath facilities and recreation/eating space. (Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Mitigation

The action taken to minimize, rectify, reduce, or eliminate adverse impacts over time and/or compensate for the loss of ecological functions resulting from development or use. (Ord. 789 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018; Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Mixed Single-Family Attached Development

A residential development where at least 70 percent of the dwelling units are single-family attached units with the remaining single-family detached units. (Ord. 871 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Mobile Home

A structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is built on a permanent chassis and is designed for use with or without a permanent foundation when attached to the required utilities. The term “mobile home” does not include a “recreational vehicle.”

Mobile Home Park or Subdivision

A parcel (or contiguous parcels) of land divided into two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale.

Modification

The changing of any portion of a wireless telecommunication facility from its description in a previously approved CUP or SUP. Examples include, but are not limited to, changes in design or ownership.

Modulation

A stepping back or projecting forward of portions of a building face, within specified intervals of building width and depth, as a means of breaking up the apparent bulk of a structure’s continuous exterior walls. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Monitoring

Evaluating the impacts of development proposals on biologic, hydrologic and geologic systems and assessing the performance of required mitigation through the collection and analysis of data for the purpose of understanding and documenting changes in natural ecosystems, functions and features including, but not limited to, gathering baseline data.

Monopole

A self-supporting antenna, ground-mounted, consisting of a single shaft that is typically made of wood, steel, or concrete and provides a rack (or racks) for mounting antennas at its top.

Motor Vehicle and Boat Sales

An establishment engaged in the retail sale of new and/or used automobiles, recreational vehicles, motorcycles, trailers, and boats.

Mount

The structure or surface upon which wireless telecommunication facilities are mounted. There are three types of permanent mounts:

 

A.    Building-Mounted. A wireless telecommunication facility mount fixed to the roof or side of a building;

 

B.    Ground-Mounted. A wireless telecommunication facility mount fixed to the ground;

 

C.    Structure-Mounted. A wireless telecommunication facility fixed to a structure other than a building, such as light standards, water reservoirs, and bridges.

20.20.036 N definitions.

Native Growth Protection Area (NGPA)

A tract or easement recorded with an approved permit, established for the following purposes, including, but not limited to, protecting vegetation, providing open space, maintaining wildlife corridors, maintaining slope stability, controlling runoff and erosion. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Native Vegetation, Native Plant(s)

Vegetation comprised of plant species, other than noxious weeds, that are indigenous to the coastal region of the Pacific Northwest, which reasonably could have been expected to naturally occur on the site. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Nonconforming Lot

A lot, the area, dimensions, or location of which was lawful prior to the adoption, revision, or amendment of the Code but that fails by reason of such adoption, revision, or amendment to conform to the present requirements of the zoning district.

Nonconforming Structure or Building

A structure or building, the size, dimensions, or location of which was lawful prior to the adoption, revision, or amendment to the Code but that fails by reason of such adoption, revision, or amendment to conform to the present requirements of the zoning district.

Nonconforming Use

A use or activity that was lawful prior to the adoption, revision or amendment of the Code but that fails by reason of such adoption, revision, or amendment to conform to the present requirements of the zoning district.

Nonproject Action

A decision on policies, plans, or programs as defined in State law.

Noxious Weed

Any plant which is highly destructive, competitive or difficult to control by cultural or chemical practices, limited to those plants on the State noxious weed list contained in Chapter 16-750 WAC.

Nuisance Vegetation

Includes the following:

 

A.    Any trees, plants, shrubs, vegetation or parts thereof, which overhang any sidewalk or street or which are situated on the property or on the portion of the street or sidewalk abutting thereon, in such a manner as to obstruct or impair the free and full use of the sidewalk or street, including the interruption or interference with the clear vision of pedestrians or person operating vehicles thereon, or interfering with sidewalks, streets, poles, wires, pipes, fixtures or any other part of any public utility situated in the street.

 

B.    Shrubs, brush, vines, trees or other vegetation growing or which has grown and died, and organic debris, which constitutes a fire hazard, or provides a harborage for rats, rodents or horticultural pests.

Nursing Facility

Any place that operates or maintains facilities providing convalescent or chronic care, for 24 consecutive hours for any number of patients not related by blood or marriage to the operator, who, by reason of illness or infirmity, are unable properly to care for themselves and is licensed under Chapter 388-97 WAC. Convalescent and chronic care may include but not be limited to any or all procedures commonly employed to people who are sick, such as administration of medicines, preparation of special diets, giving of bedside nursing care, application of dressings and bandages, and carrying out of treatment prescribed by a licensed practitioner of the healing arts. It may also include care of mentally challenged persons. Nothing in this definition shall be construed to include general hospitals, an evaluation and treatment facility, as licensed pursuant to Chapter 71.05 RCW, or other places which provide care and treatment for the acutely ill and maintain and operate facilities for major surgery or obstetrics, or both. Nothing in this definition shall be construed to include any boarding home, guest home, hotel or related institution which is held forth to the public as providing and which is operating to give only board, room and laundry to persons not in need of medical or nursing treatment or supervision except in the case of temporary acute illness. The mere designation by the operator of any place or institution such as a hospital, sanitarium, or any other similar name, which does not provide care for the acutely ill and maintain and operate facilities for major surgery or obstetrics, or both, shall not exclude such place or institution from the provisions of this code; provided, that any nursing facility providing psychiatric treatment shall, with respect to patients receiving such treatment, comply with the provisions of RCW 71.12.560 and 71.12.570. (Ord. 882 § 1 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 824 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018).

20.20.038 O definitions.

Occupant

A person who is occupying, controlling or possessing real property, or their agent or representative.

Off-street Parking Space

An area accessible to vehicles, exclusive of roadways, sidewalks, and other pedestrian facilities, that is improved, maintained and used for the purpose of parking a motor vehicle.

Open Record Hearing

A hearing that creates the record through testimony and submission of evidence and information. An open record hearing may be either a predecision hearing or an appeal of a decision made without an open record hearing.

Open Space Ratio

Total area of open space divided by the total site area in which the open space is located.

Ordinance

The ordinance, resolution, or other procedure used by the City to adopt regulatory requirements.

Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM)

The mark found by examining the bed and banks of a stream, lake, or tidal water and ascertaining where the presence and action of waters are so common and long maintained in ordinary years as to mark upon the soil a vegetative character distinct from that of the abutting upland. In any area where the ordinary high water mark cannot be found, the line of mean high water shall substitute. In any area where neither can be found, the top of the channel bank shall substitute. In braided channels and alluvial fans, the ordinary high water mark or line of mean high water shall be measured so as to include the entire stream feature.

Outdoor Performance Center

An establishment for the performing arts with open air seating for audiences. Such establishments may include related services such as food and beverage sales and other concessions.

Outdoor Storage

The storage of any products, materials, equipment, machinery, or scrap outside the confines of a fully enclosed building. Outdoor storage does not include items used for household maintenance such as hoses, ladders, wheelbarrows, and gardening equipment. (Ord. 896 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Owner

An individual, firm, association, syndicate, partnership, or corporation having sufficient proprietary interest to seek development of land.

Owner of Record

The person or entity listed as the owner of the property in the records of the King County Auditor.

Ownership Interest

Having property rights as a fee owner, contract purchaser, mortgagee, or deed of trust beneficiary or grantor.

20.20.040 P definitions.

Panoram, “Preview”, “Picture Arcade” or “Peep Show”

Any device which, for payment of a fee, membership fee or other charge, is used to view, exhibit or display a film or videotape. All such devices are denominated by the terms “panoram” or “panoram device”. The terms “panoram” or “panoram device” do not include games which employ pictures, views or video displays, or gambling devices regulated by the State.

Panoram Premises

Any premises or portion of any premises on which any panoram device is located and to which members of the public are admitted. The term “panoram premises” does not include movie or motion picture theater auditoriums capable of seating more than five people.

Panoram Station

A portion of any panoram premises on which a panoram device is located and where a patron or customer would ordinarily be positioned while watching the panoram device.

Parking Areas

Any public or private area within, under, or outside of a building or structure, designed and used for parking motor vehicles including parking lots, garages, private driveways, and legally designated areas of public streets. Outdoor display areas of vehicles for sale or lease, where such uses are permitted uses, are not considered parking areas. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Parking Lot Aisle

Portion of the off-street parking area used exclusively for the maneuvering and circulation of motor vehicles and in which parking is prohibited.

Parking Space

An area accessible to vehicles, improved, maintained and used for the sole purpose of parking a motor vehicle.

Parking Space Angle

The angle measured from a reference line, generally the property line or center line of an aisle, at which motor vehicles are to be parked.

Party of Record

A.    A person who testifies at a hearing;

 

B.    The applicant;

 

C.    For Type B and C actions, persons submitting written testimony about a matter pending before the decision-making authority; or

 

D.    The appellant(s) and respondent(s) in an administrative appeal. (Ord. 907 § 1 (Exh. B), 2020).

Pavement Width

Paved area on shoulder-type roads or paved surface between curb, thickened edge or gutter flow line on all other roads.

Pawnshop

Every person who takes or receives by way of pledge, pawn, or exchange goods, wares, merchandise or any kind of personal property whatever for the repayment of security of any money loaned thereon, or to loan money on deposit of personal property, or makes a public display of any sign indicating that they have money to loan on personal property on deposit or pledge. (Ord. 901 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Permit

Written permission issued by the City, empowering the holder thereof to do some act not forbidden by law but not allowed without such authorization.

Permitted Use

Any use allowed in a zoning district and subject to the restrictions applicable to that zoning district.

Person

Includes every natural person, firm, copartnership, corporation, association, or organization.

Pervious Surface

Any material that permits full or partial absorption of stormwater into previously unimproved land.

Plat

A.    A map representing a tract of land showing the boundaries and location of individual properties and streets;

 

B.    A map of a subdivision or site plan.

Plat, Final

A map of all or a portion of a subdivision or site plan that is presented to the approving authority for final approval.

Plat, Preliminary

An accurate drawing of a proposed subdivision showing the general layout of streets and alleys, lots, tracts, and other elements of a subdivision consistent with the requirements of the Code.

Plot

A.    A single unit parcel of land;

 

B.    A parcel of land that can be identified and referenced to a recorded plat or map.

Pollinator Habitat

A landscaped area which is entirely comprised of native plants, of which at least 80 percent are pollen or nectar producing, includes at least one educational sign, and is managed without the application of pesticides. The intent of pollinator habitat is to provide an area for native pollinator foraging, increase the connectivity of all pollinator habitats, and educate residents on the importance of pollination. (Ord. 984 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023).

Potable Water

Water suitable for human consumption.

Practical Alternative

An alternative that is available and capable of being carried out after taking into consideration cost, existing technology, and logistics in light of overall project purposes, and has less adverse impacts to critical areas. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Prime Wireless Location

A site, or area, designated by the City as suitable for location of wireless telecommunication facilities due to their potential for effective service provision to specific areas of the City.

Priority Habitat

Habitat type or elements with unique or significant value to one or more species as classified by the State Department of Fish and Wildlife. A priority habitat may consist of a unique vegetation type or dominant plant species, a described successional stage, or a specific structural element. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Private Stormwater Management Facility

A surface water control structure installed by a project proponent to retain, detain, infiltrate or otherwise limit runoff from an individual or group of developed sites specifically served by such structure. (Ord. 767 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017).

Professional Office

An office used as a place of business by licensed professionals, such as attorneys, accountants, architects, and engineers, or persons in other generally recognized professions, which use training or knowledge of a technical, scientific or other academic discipline as opposed to manual skills. Professional offices shall not involve outside storage, fabrication, or on-site transfer of commodity. (Ord. 896 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Protected Tree/Protected Vegetation

A tree or area of understory vegetation identified on an approved tree protection and replacement plan (or other plan determined to be acceptable by the Director) to be retained and protected during construction and/or permanently protected by easement, tract, or covenant restriction. A protected tree may be located outside or within an NGPA, critical area or critical area buffer. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Protection Measure

A practice or combination of practices (e.g., construction barriers, protective fencing, tree wells, etc.) used to control construction or development impacts to vegetation that is approved for protection.

Protective Fencing

A temporary fence or other structural barrier installed to prevent permitted clearing or construction activity from adversely affecting vegetation which is designated for retention.

Public Agency

Any agency, political subdivision or unit of local government of this State including, but not limited to, municipal corporations, special purpose districts and local service districts, any agency of the State of Washington, the United States or any state thereof or any Indian tribe recognized as such by the Federal government.

Public Agency Office or Public Utility Office

An office for the administration of any public governmental or utility activity or program. (Ord. 695 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014).

Public Agency Yard or Utility Yard

A facility for open or enclosed storage, repair, and maintenance of vehicles, equipment, or related materials, excluding document storage. (Ord. 695 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014).

Public Places

Outdoor spaces on private property that facilitate only pedestrians to gather. (Ord. 654 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2013; Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

20.20.042 Q definitions.

Qualified Professional

A person with experience, training and competence in the pertinent discipline. A qualified professional must be licensed to practice in the State of Washington in the related professional field, if such field is licensed. If not licensed, a qualified professional must have a national certification in the pertinent field. If national certification in the field does not exist, the minimum qualification should be a bachelor’s degree with 10 years of related professional work, or master’s degree in the field and three years of related professional work. Minimum qualifications for specific fields of practice shall include but not be limited to the following:

 

A.    Arborists must be certified arborists as defined in SMC 20.20.014 and have a valid ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ).

 

B.    Professionals for geologic hazard areas must be licensed and endorsed in the State of Washington as a geotechnical engineer or engineering geologist as defined in SMC 20.20.018 and 20.20.022.

 

C.    Professionals for streams and other fish and wildlife habitat must have a degree in biology, environmental planning, natural science, stream ecology or related field and the minimum years of experience, listed above, related to the subject habitat or species.

 

D.    Professionals for vegetation restoration planning where specific expertise for wetlands, streams or other fish and wildlife habitat is not required must have a degree in botany, environmental planning, natural science, ecology, landscape architecture or a related field and the minimum years of experience, listed above, with an emphasis on restoration ecology and vegetation management associated with critical areas and buffers. Professionals must demonstrate a minimum of three years of experience with the type of critical area or buffer for which the critical area report is being submitted.

 

E.    Professionals for wetlands must be currently certified as a professional wetland scientist (PWS) with the Society of Wetland Scientists or meet the minimum education and years of experience, listed above, as a wetlands professional.

 

F.    Minimum qualifications of professionals for other disciplines shall be determined by the Director consistent with the minimum qualifications defined above and specific to the discipline identified. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015; Ord. 324 § 1, 2003).

20.20.044 R definitions.

Reasonable Use

The minimum use to which a property owner is entitled under applicable State and Federal constitutional provision, including takings and substantive due process. (Ord. 398 § 1, 2006; Ord. 324 § 1, 2003).

Record

The oral testimony and written exhibits submitted at a hearing. The tape recording of the proceeding shall be included as part of the record.

Recreational Vehicle

A vehicle designed primarily for recreational camping, travel or seasonal use which has its own motive power or is mounted on or towed by another vehicle, including but not limited to:

 

A.    Travel trailer;

 

B.    Folding camping trailer;

 

C.    Park trailer;

 

D.    Truck camper;

 

E.    Motor home; and

 

F.    Multi-use vehicle.

Recyclable Material

A nontoxic, recoverable substance that can be reprocessed for the manufacture of new products.

Refuse

Includes, but is not limited to, all abandoned and disabled vehicles, all appliances or parts thereof, vehicle parts, broken or discarded furniture, mattresses, carpeting, all old iron or other scrap metal, glass, paper, wire, plastic, boxes, old lumber, old wood, and all other waste, garbage (as defined by SMC 13.14.010(19)) or discarded material. (Ord. 850 § 1 (Exh. A), 2019; Ord. 251 § 2(C), 2000).

Regional Stormwater Management Facility

A surface water control structure installed in or adjacent to a stream or wetland of a basin or sub-basin. Such facilities protect downstream areas identified by the City as having previously existing or predicted significant regional basin flooding or erosion problems. (Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Regional Transit Authority

Regional transit authority refers to an agency formed under the authority of Chapters 81.104 and 81.112 RCW to plan and implement a high-capacity transportation system within a defined region. (Ord. 741 § 1 (Exh. A), 2016).

Relocation Facilities

Housing units within the City of Shoreline that provide housing to persons who have been involuntarily displaced from other housing units within the City of Shoreline as a result of conversion of their housing unit to other land uses.

Remediation

To restore a site to a condition that complies with critical area or other regulatory requirements as they existed when the violation occurred; or, for sites that have been degraded under prior ownerships, restore to a condition which does not pose a probable threat to the environment or to the public health, safety, or welfare. Remediation does not mandate a return to pre-development conditions in critical areas. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Reserve and Reservation

To set aside or otherwise note in the City’s concurrency trip capacity balance sheet in a manner that assigns capacity to the applicant’s building permit and prevents the same capacity from being assigned to any other applicant. (Ord. 689 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014).

Residential Care Facility (RCF)

A State licensed facility that provides, on a regular basis, personal care including dressing and eating and health-related care and services for not more than 15 functionally disabled persons. A residential care facility shall not provide the degree of care and treatment that a hospital provides. The following are not considered an RCF: a residential treatment facility, as licensed pursuant to Chapter 71.12 RCW; an adult family home, as licensed pursuant to Chapter 70.128 RCW; an evaluation and treatment facility, as licensed pursuant to Chapter 71.05 RCW; and an enhanced service facility, as licensed pursuant to Chapter 70.97 RCW. (Ord. 882 § 2 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 824 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018).

Residential Treatment Facility

A facility licensed by the State pursuant to Chapter 71.12 RCW and Chapter 246-337 WAC that provides 24-hour on-site care for the evaluation, stabilization, or treatment of residents for substance abuse, mental health, or co-occurring disorders. The facility includes rooms for social, educational, and recreational activities, sleeping, treatment, visitation, dining, toileting, and bathing. A residential treatment facility is not considered an evaluation and treatment facility as defined in Chapter 71.05 RCW. (Ord. 882 § 1 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 824 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018).

Responsible Official

A person or persons designated by the City’s SEPA procedures to undertake its procedural responsibility as lead agency.

Restoration

Measures taken to restore an altered or damaged critical area or any associated buffer to a state in which its stability and functions approach its unaltered state as closely as possible, including:

 

A.    Active steps taken to restore damaged critical areas or their buffers to the functioning condition that existed prior to an unauthorized alteration; and

 

B.    Actions performed to reestablish structural and functional characteristics of the critical area that have been lost by alteration, past management activities, or catastrophic events. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Review Authority

The Planning Commission or other entity entitled to hold predecision open record hearings and make recommendations to the decision making body.

Right-of-Way

Property granted or reserved for, or dedicated to, public use for street purposes and utilities, together with property granted or reserved for, or dedicated to, public use for walkways, sidewalks, bikeways, and parking whether improved or unimproved, including the air rights, sub-surface rights and easements thereto. (Ord. 352 § 1, 2004).

Right-of-Way Permit

A class of permit issued by the City prior to any construction, use, or activity performed at a specific location in the City’s public right-of-way. Permits may include long-term installation of a facility or improvement in the absence of a franchise (right-of-way site permit) or standard maintenance operations by a franchise holder (right-of-way blanket permit). (Ord. 244 § 2, 2000).

Right-of-Way, Railroad

Property granted or reserved for, or dedicated to, railroad use, including all facilities accessory to and used directly for railroad operation. (Ord. 352 § 1, 2004).

Riparian Habitat

Areas adjacent to aquatic systems with flowing water that contain elements of both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems that mutually influence each other. The width of these areas extends to that portion of the terrestrial landscape that directly influences the aquatic ecosystem by providing shade, fine or large woody material, nutrients, organic and inorganic debris, terrestrial insects, or habitat for riparian-associated wildlife. Widths shall be measured from the ordinary high water mark or from the top of bank if the ordinary high water mark cannot be identified. It includes the entire extent of the floodplain and the extent of vegetation adapted to wet conditions as well as adjacent upland plant communities that directly influence the stream system. Riparian habitat areas include those riparian areas severely altered or damaged due to human development activities. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Risk Potential Activity or Risk Potential Facility

In accordance with RCW 71.09.020, means an activity or facility that provides a higher incidence of risk to the public from persons conditionally released from the special commitment center. Risk potential activities and facilities include: public and private schools, school bus stops, licensed day care and licensed preschool facilities, public parks, publicly dedicated trails, sports fields, playgrounds, recreational and community centers, churches, synagogues, temples, mosques, public libraries, and other activities and facilities identified by the State Department of Social and Health Services following the hearings on a potential site required in RCW 71.09.315. School bus stops do not include bus stops primarily used for public transit. (Ord. 309 § 1, 2002).

Road

A public or recorded private thoroughfare providing pedestrian and vehicular access through neighborhoods and communities and to abutting property.

Road, Private

A private vehicular access that serves multiple parcels.

Roofline Modulation

Refers to a variation in roof form. See SMC 20.50.250(B)(4) for provisions. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Runoff

Water not absorbed by the soil in the landscape area to which it is applied.

20.20.046 S definitions.

Salmonid

A member of the fish family salmonidae, including:

 

A.    Chinook, coho, chum, sockeye and pink salmon;

 

B.    Rainbow, steelhead and cutthroat trout or salmon;

 

C.    Brown trout;

 

D.    Brook and dolly varden trout or char;

 

E.    Kokanee; and

 

F.    Whitefish. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Scale

A.    The relationship between distances on a map and actual ground distances;

 

B.    The proportioned relationship of the size of parts to one another.

Scale of Development

The relationship of a particular project or development, in terms of size, height, bulk, intensity, and aesthetics, to its surroundings.

School Bus Base

An establishment for the storage, dispatch, repair and maintenance of coaches and other vehicles of a school transit system.

Schools, Elementary, and Middle/Junior High

Institutions of learning offering instruction in the several branches of learning and study required by the Education Code of the State of Washington in grades kindergarten through nine, including associated meeting rooms, auditoriums and athletic facilities.

Schools, Secondary or High School

Institutions of learning offering instruction in the several branches of learning and study required by the Education Code of the State of Washington in grades nine through 12, including associated meeting rooms, auditoriums and athletic facilities.

Secure Community Transitional Facility (SCTF)

A residential facility for persons civilly committed and conditionally released to a less restrictive community-based alternative under Chapter 71.09 RCW operated by or under contract with the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services. A secure community transitional facility has supervision and security, and either provides or ensures the provision of sex offender treatment services. SCTFs shall not be considered residential care facilities. (Ord. 824 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018; Ord. 581 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2010; Ord. 515 § 1, 2008; Ord. 309 § 2, 2002).

Security Barrier

A wall, fence or berm that has the purpose of sealing an area from unauthorized entry or trespass.

Seismic Hazard Areas

Those areas in the City of Shoreline subject to severe risk of damage as a result of earthquake-induced ground shaking, slope failure, settlement or subsidence, soil liquefaction, surface faulting, or tsunamis. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Self-Storage Facility

Any real property designed and used for the purpose of renting or leasing individual storage space to occupants who are to have access to the space for the purpose of storing and removing personal property on a self-service basis, but does not include a garage or other storage area in a private residence. No occupant may use a self-storage facility for residential purposes. Self-storage facility is synonymous with self-service storage facility, mini-warehouse, and mini-storage. (Ord. 765 § 1 (Exh. A), 2016).

Senior Citizen

A person aged 62 or older.

Senior Citizen Affordable Housing

Structures that provide accommodation for households with:

A.    Income no greater than 60 percent of the King County Area Median Income (adjusted for household size) with rent no greater than 30 percent of household income; and

B.    At least one occupant is 55 years of age or older; and

C.    A maximum of three occupants per dwelling unit. (Ord. 581 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2010).

Senior Citizen Assisted Housing

(Repealed by Ord. 907 § 1 (Exh. B), 2020).

SEPA

State Environmental Policy Act.

SEPA Rules

Chapter 197-11 WAC adopted by the Department of Ecology.

SEPA Threshold Determination

The decision by the responsible official of the lead agency whether or not an environmental impact statement is required for a proposal that is not categorically exempt.

Setback

The distance between the building and any lot line.

Setback Line

That line that is the required minimum distance from any lot line and that establishes the area within which the principal structure must be erected or placed.

Setback, Aggregate Yard

Total yard setback area that equals the sum of the minimum front yard, rear yard, and side yard setbacks. (Ord. 299 § 1, 2002).

Setback, Front Yard

A space extending the full width of the lot between the front property line and the yard setback line which is measured perpendicular from the front lot line to the minimum yard setback line. (Ord. 299 § 1, 2002).

Setback, Rear Yard

A space extending across the full width of the lot between the rear lot line and the yard setback line which is measured perpendicular from the rear lot line to the minimum yard setback line. (Ord. 299 § 1, 2002).

Setback, Side Yard

A space extending from the front yard to the rear yard measured perpendicular from the side lot line to the minimum yard setback line. (Ord. 299 § 1, 2002).

Shared-Space

A street that facilitates pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular traffic within a shared space. They typically lack separate pavement and include a variety of surface treatments, bollards, lighting, and landscaping to define a shared space. They are also known as a woonerf, home zone, or living street. (Ord. 871 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Shipping Containers

Steel or wooden containers used for shipping and storage of goods or materials. The typical dimensions for these containers are eight feet, six inches high, 20 to 40 feet long with a width of seven feet. (Ord. 299 § 1, 2002).

Shorelines Hearing Board

A quasi-judicial body established with the State Environmental Hearings Office under State law.

Short Subdivision, Final

A surveyed map of a short subdivision to be recorded with the County.

Short Subdivision, Preliminary

A subdivision which has been preliminarily found to successfully meet all requirements for approval but whose improvements have not yet been constructed, are under construction or are completed but not yet inspected and found to be in compliance with the conditions of approval.

Shoulder

The paved or unpaved portion of the roadway outside the traveled way that is available for emergency parking or nonmotorized use.

Sidewalk

All hard-surface walkways within public rights-of-way in the area between the street margin and the roadway, including driveways.

Sign

Any material, structure, device, fixture, placard, or part thereof, that is visible from a public right-of-way or surrounding properties, that incorporates graphics, letters, figures, symbols, trademarks, or written copy for the purposes of conveying a particular message to public observers, such as promoting or identifying any establishment, product, goods, service, or event. Painted wall designs or patterns which do not represent a product, service, or registered trademark, and which do not identify the user or establishment, are not considered signs. If a design or pattern is combined with a sign, only that part of the design or pattern which cannot be distinguished from the sign will be considered as part of the sign. (Ord. 850 § 1 (Exh. A), 2019).

Sign, Building-Mounted

A sign permanently attached to a building, including flush-mounted, projecting, awning, canopy, or marquee signs. Underawning or blade signs are regulated separately. (Ord. 654 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2013).

Sign, Monument

A freestanding sign that has integrated the structural component of the sign into the design of the sign and sign base. Monument signs may also consist of painted text, cabinet, or channel letters mounted on a fence, freestanding wall, or retaining wall where the total height of the structure meets the limitations of this code. (Ord. 654 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2013).

Sign, Portable

A sign that is readily capable of being moved or removed, whether attached or affixed to the ground or any structure that is typically intended for temporary display. (Ord. 654 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2013).

Sign, Temporary

A sign that is only permitted to be displayed for a limited period of time, after which it must be removed. (Ord. 654 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2013).

Sign, Under-Awning

A sign suspended below a canopy, awning or other overhanging feature of a building. (Ord. 654 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2013).

Sign, Window

A sign applied to a window or mounted or suspended directly behind a window. (Ord. 654 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2013).

Site Development Permit

A permit, issued by the City, to develop, redevelop or partially develop a site exclusive of any required building or land use permit. A site development permit may include one or more of the following activities: paving, grading, clearing, tree removal, on-site utility installation, stormwater facilities, walkways, striping, wheelstops or curbing for parking and circulation, landscaping, critical area and buffer mitigation, enhancement, remediation, or restoration. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015; Ord. 439 § 1, 2006; Ord. 352 § 1, 2004).

Site Plan

The development plan for one or more lots on which is shown the existing and proposed conditions of the lot, including topography, vegetation, drainage, floodplains, wetlands, waterways, critical areas and critical area buffers; landscaping and open spaces; walkways; means of ingress and egress; circulation; utility services; structures and buildings; signs and lighting; berms, buffers, and screening devices; surrounding development; and any other information that reasonably may be required in order that an informed decision can be made by the approving authority. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Special Drainage Areas

An area which has been formally determined by the City to require more restrictive regulation than City-wide standards afford in order to mitigate severe flooding, drainage, erosion or sedimentation problems which result from the cumulative impacts of development. (Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Special Overlay District (SO)

Superseded by Ord. 654.

Special Use Permit

A permit issued by the City that must be acquired before a special exception use can be constructed.

Specialized Instruction School

An establishment engaged in providing specialized instruction in a designated field of study, rather than a full range of courses in unrelated areas, including, but not limited to:

 

A.    Art;

 

B.    Dance;

 

C.    Music;

 

D.    Cooking;

 

E.    Driving; and

 

F.    Pet obedience training.

Sports Club

An establishment engaged in operating physical fitness facilities and sports and recreation clubs, including:

 

A.    Physical fitness facilities; and

 

B.    Membership sports and recreation clubs.

Standing

A showing that a party’s interests are arguably within the zone of interests protected by the land use review process, and that the decision may cause the party injury-in-fact.

State

The State of Washington.

Steep Slope Hazard Areas

(Repealed by Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Storefront

A pedestrian-oriented facade placed up to the edge of a public sidewalk. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Storefront Street

Superseded by Ord. 654. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Stormwater Manual

The most recent version of the Stormwater Management Manual for Western Washington published by Washington Department of Ecology (“Stormwater Manual”). (Ord. 767 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017; Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Stream Functions

Natural processes performed by streams including functions which are important in facilitating food chain production, providing habitat for nesting, rearing and resting sites for aquatic, terrestrial and avian species, maintaining the availability and quality of water, such as purifying water, acting as recharge and discharge areas for ground water aquifers, moderating surface water and stormwater flows and maintaining the free flowing conveyance of water, sediments and other organic matter.

Streams

Those areas where surface waters produce a defined channel or bed, not including irrigation ditches, canals, storm or surface water runoff devices or other entirely artificial watercourses, unless they are used by fish or are used to convey streams naturally occurring prior to construction. A channel or bed need not contain water year-round; provided, that there is evidence of at least intermittent flow during years of normal rainfall. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015; Ord. 398 § 1, 2006).

Street

A public or recorded private thoroughfare providing pedestrian and vehicular access through neighborhoods and communities and to abutting property.

Street Wall

A wall or portion of a wall of a building facing a public right-of-way that frames the public realm, creating a sense of enclosure for pedestrians. (Ord. 871 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Structure

Anything permanently constructed in or on the ground, or over the water, excluding fences and signs less than six feet in height, decks less than 18 inches above grade, paved areas, and structural or nonstructural fill.

Subdivision

The division of a lot, tract, or parcel of land into two or more lots, tracts, parcels, or other divisions of land for sale, development, or lease.

Subdivision, Formal

A subdivision of 10 or more lots. (Ord. 819 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018).

Subdivision, Short

A subdivision of nine or fewer lots. (Ord. 819 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018).

Submerged Land

Any land at or below the ordinary high water mark.

Substantial Development

(Repealed by Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Substantial Improvement

(Repealed by Ord. 641 § 3 (Exh. A), 2012).

Surveyor

A person licensed by the State of Washington to engage in the practice of land surveying, as defined by RCW 18.43.020.

20.20.048 T definitions.

Temporary Use

A use established for a limited duration with the intent to discontinue such use upon the expiration of the time period.

Tobacco/Vape Store

Any premises dedicated to the display, sale, distribution, delivery, offering, furnishing, or marketing of tobacco, tobacco products, or tobacco paraphernalia, including electronic nicotine delivery systems and associated nicotine products; provided, however, that any grocery store, supermarket, convenience store or similar retail use that only sells tobacco products or paraphernalia as an ancillary sale shall not be defined as a “tobacco/vape store.” (Ord. 901 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Transfer of Development Rights

The transfer of development rights program is to provide a voluntary, incentive-based process for permanently preserving rural resource and urban separator lands that provide a public benefit. The TDR provisions are intended to supplement land use regulations, resource protection efforts and open space acquisition programs and to encourage increased residential development density, especially inside cities, where it can best be accommodated with the least impacts on the natural environment and public services. (Ord. 706 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Transfer Station

Staffed collection and transportation facility used by private individuals and route collection vehicles to deposit solid waste collected off-site into larger transfer vehicles for transport to permanent disposal sites, and may also include recycling facilities involving collection or processing for shipment.

Transit Base

(Repealed by Ord. 999 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024).

Transit Park and Ride Lot

Vehicle parking specifically for the purpose of access to a public transit system.

Transitional Encampments

Temporary campsites for the homeless organized by a managing agency. (Ord. 762 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017).

Transitional Housing Facilities

Housing units within the City of Shoreline owned by public housing authorities, nonprofit organizations or other public interest groups that provide housing to persons on a temporary basis for a duration not to exceed 24 months in conjunction with job training, self sufficiency training, and human services counseling, the purpose of which is to help persons make the transition from homelessness to placement in permanent housing.

Transmission Equipment

Equipment, such as antennas and satellites, or point-to-point microwave dishes, that transmit or receive radio signals.

Transmission Line Booster Station

An establishment containing equipment designed to increase voltage of electrical power transported through transmission and/or distribution lines to compensate for power loss due to resistance.

Transmission Structure

A structure intended to support transmission equipment or function as an antenna for AM radio or an earth station satellite dish antenna. The term does not include brackets, platforms, or other apparatus which mount transmission equipment onto transmission structures, buildings or other structures.

Transmitter Building

A building used to contain communication transmission equipment.

Transparent Window

A window that is capable of transmitting light so that objects or images can be seen as if there were no intervening material. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Transportation Facilities

For the purpose of concurrency means those roads and streets functionally classified as principal and minor arterials. “Transportation facilities” also means signalized intersections on arterial streets and unsignalized intersecting arterials. “Transportation facilities” does not include those facilities specifically identified as exempt in the City’s Transportation Master Plan. (Ord. 689 § 1 (Exh. A), 2014).

Transportation System Management (TSM)

Low-cost projects that can be implemented in a short time frame designed to increase the efficiency of existing transportation facilities. This also includes transit and/or ride sharing measures to decrease single occupancy vehicle trips.

Tree

A self-supporting woody plant characterized by one main trunk or, for certain species, multiple trunks, with a potential at maturity for a trunk diameter of two inches and potential minimum height of 10 feet.

Tree and Vegetation Removal

Removal of a tree(s) or vegetation, through either direct or indirect actions including, but not limited to, clearing, cutting, causing irreversible damage to roots or trunks; poisoning; destroying the structural integrity; and/or any filling, excavation, grading, or trenching in the dripline area of a tree which has the potential to cause irreversible damage to the tree, or relocation of an existing tree to a new planting location.

Tree, Broad-Leafed

Trees with flat leaves, not scaled or needle shaped, which usually lose their foliage at the end of the growing season. Examples include maples, alders, willows, and Pacific Madrone.

Tree Canopy

The total area of the tree or trees where the uppermost layer of the tree or group of trees are formed by the leaves and branches of dominant tree crowns. (Ord. 955 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).

Tree, Coniferous

Any of various mostly needle-leaved or scale-leaved, chiefly evergreen, cone-bearing gymnospermous trees, such as pines, spruces, and firs.

Tree, Deciduous

Trees that shed or otherwise loose their foliage at the end of the growing season, such as maples, alders, oaks, and willows.

Tree, Evergreen

Trees that maintain the majority of their foliage each year when grown in the Shoreline area. Examples of evergreen trees include pines, firs, Douglas fir, and the Pacific Madrone.

Tree, Hazardous

A tree that is either dead, permanently damaged and/or is continuing in declining health or is so affected by a significant structural defect or disease that falling or failure appears imminent, or a tree that impedes safe vision or traffic flow, or that otherwise currently poses a threat to life or property. (Ord. 955 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).

Tree, Landmark

Any healthy tree over 24 inches in diameter at breast height (dbh) that is worthy of long-term protection due to a unique combination of size, shape, age, location, aesthetic quality for its species or any other trait that epitomizes the character of the species, and/or has cultural, historic or ecological importance or is a regional erratic. Long-term protection and recognition of any landmark tree may be obtained through the landmark tree designation program as detailed in SMC 20.50.350(F). (Ord. 955 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).

Tree, Significant

Any healthy tree six inches or greater in diameter at breast height (dbh) excluding those trees that qualify for complete exemptions from Chapter 20.50 SMC, Subchapter 5, Tree Conservation, Land Clearing, and Site Grading Standards, under SMC 20.50.310(A). (Ord. 955 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022; Ord. 669 § 1 (Exh. A), 2013).

Tree, Stand or Cluster

A group of three or more trees of any size or species, whose driplines touch.

Trellis

(Repealed by Ord. 850 § 1 (Exh. A), 2019).

20.20.050 U definitions.

Understory Vegetation

Small trees, shrubs, and groundcover plants, growing beneath and shaded by a significant tree which affect and are affected by the soil and hydrology of the area surrounding the significant tree roots.

Unit Lot Development

A residential development that contains single-family attached building(s) or single-family attached structure(s) wherein each building or structure is defined as one building or one structure pursuant to the International Building Code, the International Fire Code, and the National Electrical Code. (Ord. 871 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Unit Lot Subdivision

A unit lot subdivision (also known as a “fee simple lot”) is the subdivision of land for single-family detached and/or attached dwelling units, in the form of unit lot development, mixed single-family attached development, or zero lot line development in all zones in which these uses are permitted. (Ord. 871 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020; Ord. 767 § 1 (Exh. A), 2017).

Unlicensed Wireless Services

Commercial mobile services that can operate on public domain frequencies and that therefore need no Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license.

Urban Forest    

All trees within the City limits and the various ecosystem components that accompany these trees (soils, understory flora, diverse species, and habitats) under any public or private ownership and land use type, developed or undeveloped.

This includes public parks, City streets, private yards and shared residential spaces, community spaces (such as libraries) and commercial and government property. (Ord. 955 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).

Urban Tree Canopy

From an aerial view during summer, the percentage of ground that is obscured from view by trees. (Ord. 955 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022).

Use

An activity or function carried out on an area of land, or in a building or structure located thereon. Any use subordinate or incidental to the primary use on a site is considered an accessory use.

Utility

Private or municipal corporations owning or operating, or proposing to own or operate facilities that comprise a system or systems for public service. Private utilities include only gas, electric, telecommunications, or water companies that are subject to the jurisdiction of the State Utilities and Transportation Commission and that have not been classified as competitive by the commission. (Ord. 324 § 1, 2003).

Utility Facility

A facility for the distribution or transmission of services to an area, including, but not limited to:

 

A.    Telephone exchanges;

 

B.    Water pumping or treatment stations;

 

C.    Electrical substations;

 

D.    Water storage reservoirs or tanks;

 

E.    Municipal ground water well-fields;

 

F.    Regional stormwater management facilities;

 

G.    Natural gas gate stations and limiting stations;

 

H.    Propane, compressed natural gas and liquefied natural gas storage tanks serving multiple lots or uses from which fuel is distributed directly to individual users;

 

I.    Sewer lift stations; and

 

J.    Pipes, electrical wires and associated structural supports.

20.20.052 V definitions.

Variance

Written permission to depart from the requirements of a Development Code.

Vegetation

Any and all plant life growing at, below or above the soil surface.

Vehicle Display Areas

Outdoor areas where vehicles for sale or lease are displayed. (Ord. 654 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2013).

Vocational School

Establishments offering training in a skill or trade to be pursued as a career, including:

A.    Vocational schools; and

B.    Technical institutes.

20.20.054 W definitions.

Walkways

On-site hard surfaces for pedestrian and nonmotorized circulation. Nonmotorized circulation includes use of mobility aids. (Ord. 609 § 4 (Exh. A), 2011).

Warehousing and Wholesale Trade

Establishments involved in the storage and/or sale of bulk goods for resale or assembly, excluding establishments offering the sale of bulk goods to the general public. Warehousing does not include self-storage facilities. (Ord. 765 § 1 (Exh. A), 2016).

Wastewater Treatment Facility

A plant for collection, decontamination and disposal of sewage, including residential, industrial and agricultural liquid wastes, and including any physical improvement within the scope of the definition of “water pollution control facility” set forth in WAC 173-90-015(4) as amended.

Water Dependent Use

(Repealed by Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Wetland Creation

The manipulation of the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics on an upland or deepwater site, to create a wetland where a wetland did not previously exist. Creation results in a gain in wetland acreage and function. A typical action is the excavation of upland soils to elevations that will produce a wetland hydroperiod and hydric soils, and support the growth of hydrophytic plant species. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Wetland Delineation

A technical procedure performed by a qualified professional with expertise in wetlands and documented in a critical area report to determine the area of a wetland, ascertaining the wetland’s classification, function, and value, and to define the boundary between a wetland and adjacent uplands. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Wetland Edge

The line delineating the outer edge of a wetland established based on the definitions and methods contained in Chapter 20.80 SMC. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Wetland Enhancement

The manipulation of the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of a wetland to heighten, intensify, or improve specific function(s) or to change the growth stage or composition of the vegetation present. Enhancement is undertaken for specified purposes such as water quality improvement, floodwater retention, or wildlife habitat. Enhancement results in a change in wetland function(s) and can lead to a decline in other wetland functions, but does not result in a gain in wetland acres. Examples are planting vegetation, controlling nonnative or invasive species, and modifying site elevations to alter hydroperiods. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Wetland Functions

Natural processes performed by wetlands including functions which are important in facilitating food chain production, providing habitat for nesting, rearing and resting sites for aquatic, terrestrial and avian species, maintaining the availability and quality of water, acting as recharge and discharge areas for ground water aquifers and moderating surface water and stormwater flows, as well as performing other functions.

Wetland, Forested

(Repealed by Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Wetland, Isolated

(Repealed by Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Wetland Reestablishment

The manipulation of the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of a site with the goal of returning natural or historic functions to a former wetland. Reestablishment results in rebuilding a former wetland and results in a gain in wetland acres and functions. Activities could include removing fill, plugging ditches, or breaking drain tiles. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Wetland Rehabilitation

The manipulation of the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of a site with the goal of repairing natural or historic functions and processes of a degraded wetland. Rehabilitation results in a gain in wetland function but does not result in a gain in wetland acres. Activities could involve breaching a dike to reconnect wetlands to a floodplain or returning tidal influence to a wetland. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Wetland Scientist

A scientist, including but not limited to ecologists, hydrologists, and soil scientists, who study the physical and biological characteristics of wetlands and their functions. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Wetlands

Those areas that are inundated or saturated by ground or surface 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 swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas. Wetland types found in western Washington include estuarine, forested, coastal lagoons, interdunal, depressional, riverine, lake fringe, isolated, slope, and tidal fringe. Wetlands do not include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from nonwetland 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 nonwetland areas to mitigate the conversion of wetlands. (Ord. 724 § 1 (Exh. A), 2015).

Wetpond

(Repealed by Ord. 531 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2009).

Wildlife Shelter

A facility for the temporary housing of sick, wounded or displaced wildlife.

Wireless Telecommunication Facility (WTF)

An unstaffed facility for the transmission and reception of radio or microwave signals used for commercial communications. A WTF provides services which include cellular phone, personal communication services, other mobile radio services, and any other service provided by wireless common carriers licensed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). WTFs are composed of two or more of the following components:

 

A. Antenna;

 

B. Mount;

 

C. Equipment enclosure;

 

D. Security barrier. (Ord. 469 § 1, 2007).

Wireless Telecommunication Facility (WTF), Building Mounted

Wireless telecommunication facility mounted to the roof or the wall of a building. (Ord. 469 § 1, 2007).

Wireless Telecommunication Facility (WTF), Ground Mounted

Wireless telecommunication facility not attached to a structure or building and not exempted from regulation under SMC 20.40.600(A). Does not include co-location of a facility on an existing monopole, utility pole, light pole, or flag pole. (Ord. 469 § 1, 2007).

Wireless Telecommunication Facility (WTF), Structure Mounted

Wireless telecommunication facility located on structures other than buildings, such as light poles, utility poles, flag poles, transformers, existing monopoles, towers and/or tanks. (Ord. 469 § 1, 2007).

Work Release Facility

A facility which allows the opportunity for convicted persons to be employed outside of the facility, but requires confinement within the facility when not in the place of employment.

20.20.058 Y definitions.

Yard

An open space that lies between the principal building or buildings and the nearest lot line. The minimum required yard as set forth in the ordinance is unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground upward except by vegetation and except as may be specifically provided in the Code.

20.20.060 Z definitions.

Zero Lot Line Development

A development that contains building(s) configured in such a manner that one or more of the building’s sides rest directly on a lot line. (Ord. 871 § 1 (Exh. A), 2020).

Zone

A specifically delineated area or district in a municipality within which uniform regulations and requirements govern the use, placement, spacing, and size of land and buildings.

Zoning

The delineation of districts and the establishment of regulations governing the use, placement, spacing, and size of land and buildings.

Zoning Envelope

The three-dimensional space within which a structure is permitted to be built on a lot and that is defined by maximum height regulations, and minimum yard setbacks.

Zoning Map

The map or maps that are a part of the Code and delineate the boundaries of zone districts.