Chapter 15.31A SITING OF WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES

Chapter 15.31A
SITING OF WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES

Sections:

15.31A.010 Purpose

15.31A.020 Authority and Application

15.31A.021 Exemptions

15.31A.022 Definitions

15.31A.031 Review and Approval Process

15.31A.032 Siting Hierarchy

15.31A.033 Attached WCFs – Specific Development Standards

15.31A.034 Collocated WCFs – Specific Development Standards

15.31A.035 Mitigation – Specific Development Standards

15.31A.036 New Concealed Freestanding WCFs – Specific Development Standards

15.31A.040 General Development Standards for All WCFs

15.31A.050 Submittal Requirements for All WCFs

15.31A.010 Purpose

The purpose of this chapter is to establish local guidelines, standards and procedures for the siting and construction of wireless communications facilities (WCFs), and to address the issues of appearance and safety associated with WCFs. It is intended to provide adequate siting opportunities at appropriate locations within the City to support existing WCF technologies, to encourage new technologies to benefit SeaTac residents, businesses, and institutions, and to permit WCF providers to remain competitive. This chapter has been developed in conjunction with a Wireless Telecommunications Master Plan that forecasts future needs for wireless facilities in SeaTac and analyzes appropriate locations for their placement.

A wide range of locations and options that minimize the safety hazards and visual impacts sometimes associated with WCFs are provided. The siting of facilities is encouraged on buildings and structures, and in certain rights-of-way as locations for wireless communications infrastructure to establish a precedence of quality concealment products that will minimize the aesthetic impact of related infrastructure. The siting of concealed facilities on existing structures, collocation of WCFs, and visual mitigation measures are encouraged in this chapter in order to preserve neighborhood aesthetics and reduce visual clutter in the community.

The development standards in this chapter establish siting criteria and address setbacks, landscaping, dimensions, and other site-specific design requirements. Siting criteria for WCFs are necessary to encourage the siting of those facilities in locations most appropriate based on land use compatibility, neighborhood characteristics, and aesthetic considerations. (Ord. 07-1004 § 1: Ord. 04-1030 § 2)

15.31A.020 Authority and Application

The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all WCFs and communication facilities as defined in SMC 15.31A.022, except as specifically exempted in SMC 15.31A.021, including, but not limited to:

A. Existing antenna-supporting structures.

B. Proposed antenna-supporting structures.

C. Mitigation for existing antenna-supporting structures.

D. Attached WCFs.

E. Collocation on antenna-supporting structures.

F. Satellite earth stations (satellite dishes) and microwave facilities that are greater than one (1) meter (39.37 inches) in diameter.

G. Major communication facilities as defined in SMC 15.31A.022. Location of such facilities shall be allowed only per SMC 15.12.040(41). Such facilities shall additionally comply with all requirements of this chapter. (Ord. 04-1030 § 2)

15.31A.021 Exemptions

The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to:

A. Maintenance and repair of existing antennas and/or feed lines, provided the model, type, mechanical and electrical specifications, size and number remains the same, and a waiver is submitted and approved prior to the start of such work, or, for emergencies, submitted within forty-eight (48) hours of such work. Inspections of such work shall be allowed if requested by the City.

Should such maintenance and repair require a replacement of any existing antenna(s) and/or feed line(s) due to damage of any kind, the affected equipment shall only be replaced with an exact replica of the affected equipment. If this is not feasible, and upgraded equipment is required, such changes may be effected in order to comply with federally licensed regulations, for no more than ten (10) days.

B. Satellite earth stations (satellite dishes) that are one meter (39.37 inches) or less in diameter.

C. Television-receiving only antennas.

D. A temporary wireless communications facility, also known as a carrier on wheels (COW), upon the declaration of a state of emergency by Federal, State, or local government, and a written determination of public necessity by the City; for a period not to exceed ninety (90) days; provided, that this period may be extended at the discretion of the Director of Community and Economic Development. Said facility must comply with all Federal and State requirements.

E. Minor communication facilities as defined in 15.31A.022(12). Such facilities shall be regulated in accordance with SMC 15.12.040. (Ord. 11-1002 § 3; Ord. 04-1030 § 2)

15.31A.022 Definitions

1. Abandonment.*

Intentional discontinuation of electrical service to a wireless communications facility (WCF) for sixty (60) or more days.

*Code reviser’s note: This definition has been editorially renumbered from SMC 15.10.005 to group all wireless communications definitions together.

2. Accessory Building.

A building used exclusively or primarily to contain and conceal radio or other equipment necessary for the transmission or reception of wireless communication signals.

3. Ancillary Structures.

Any form of development associated with a wireless communications facility, including but not limited to: foundations, concrete slabs on grade, guy anchors, generators, and transmission cable supports; however, specifically excluding equipment cabinets, and enclosures.

4. Antenna.

Any apparatus designed for transmitting and/or receiving electromagnetic waves, including, but not limited to telephonic, radio or television communications. Types of elements include, but are not limited to, wireless internet, omni-directional (whip) antennas, sectorized (panel) antennas, multi or single bay (FM and TV) antennas, and yagi or parabolic (dish) antennas.

5. Antenna Array.

One (1) or more antennas and their associated mounting hardware, feed lines, or other appurtenances, such as a platform, which share a common attachment device, such as a mounting frame, or mounting support structure.

6. Antenna Element Combining.

A change that results in an antenna or an array of antennas providing services for more than one (1) wireless provider for the same or similar type of services.

7. Antenna Element Replacement.

The changing of a single antenna or of an array antenna unit with another single antenna or array unit with different mechanical or electromagnetic specifications.

8. Antenna-Supporting Structure.

A ground-based vertical projection composed of metal or other substance with or without foundation that is for the express purpose of accommodating antennas at a desired height above grade.

9. Certain Rights-of-Way.

Nonarterial rights-of-way unless otherwise approved by the Public Works Director. See SMC 15.31A.036(F)(4) regarding requirements for placement in rights-of-way.

10. Collocation.

The practice of installing and operating multiple and various wireless carriers, service providers, government wireless and/or radio common carrier licensees on the same antenna-supporting structure using different and separate antenna arrays, feed lines and radio frequency generating and/or receiving equipment.

11. Communication Facility, Major.

A communication facility for transmission of UHF and/or VHF television signals, FM and AM radio signals, and/or signals through FM translators or boosters not related to wireless telecommunications facilities.

12. Communication Facility, Minor.

A communication facility for the transmission and reception of amateur (ham) radio signals.

13. E-911 Enhanced.

A federally mandated upgrade to a WCF or handheld device that enables an emergency call center to track the approximate location of a wireless caller dialing 911.

14. Equipment Compound.

An outdoor fenced area occupied by all the equipment associated with a wireless communications facility, including antenna-supporting structure(s), equipment shelters, equipment cabinets or pedestals, feed lines, generators, and ancillary structures, but excluding parking and access ways.

15. Equipment Enclosure.

Any structure including: cabinets, shelters, pedestals, and other similar structures used exclusively to contain radio or other equipment necessary for the transmission and/or reception of wireless communication signals.

16. Existing Structure.

An existing structure to which wireless telecommunications antenna(s) may be attached. For the purpose of siting wireless telecommunications facilities, existing structures shall include only the following: buildings (other than single-family residential), and water towers.

17. FAA.

The Federal Aviation Administration.

18. FCC.

The Federal Communications Commission.

19. Feed Lines.

Cables used as the interconnecting media between the transmission/receiving base station and the antenna.

20. Flush-Mounted.

Any antenna or antenna array attached directly to the face of the support structure or building such that no portion of the antenna extends above the height of the support structure or building. Where a maximum flush mounting distance is given that distance shall be measured from the outside edge of the support structure or building to the inside edge of the antenna.

21. Geographic Search Area.

An area designated by a wireless provider or operator for a new base station facility, produced in accordance with generally accepted principles of radio frequency wireless engineering.

22. Height.

For the purposes of measuring the height of any WCF, any antenna(s) mounted on a antenna-supporting structure shall be considered part of the antenna-supporting structure and shall be included in measurements to determine overall (i.e., combined) height. For antenna(s) mounted on an existing structure(s), the height of the antenna(s) shall be measured in addition to the height of the existing structure, but the combined height shall be subject to the height limitations specified in this chapter, or of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) if applicable.

23. Intermodulation Distortion.

The preventable and avoidable results of the mixture of two (2) certain and specific radio frequencies (3rd Order); or more certain or specific radio frequencies (5th Order), that creates at least one (1) other unwanted, undesirable, and interfering radio frequency (3rd Order), or multiple other unwanted, undesirable, and interfering radio frequency signals (5th Order).

24. Lattice Tower.

A tapered style of antenna-supporting structure that consists of vertical and horizontal supports with multiple legs and cross-bracing and metal crossed strips or bars to support antennas.

25. Least Visually Obtrusive.

A wireless communication facility (WCF) that is designed to present a visual profile that is the minimum profile necessary for the facility to properly function.

26. Maintenance and Repair.

Repair or routine maintenance of antennas, equipment and /or feed lines, provided the model, type, mechanical and electrical specifications, size and number remains the same, and a waiver is completed prior to the start of such work, or, for emergencies, within forty-eight (48) hours of such work.

27. Microwave.

Electromagnetic waves with a frequency of eight hundred ninety (890) megahertz (mhz) or greater intended for point-to-point communications.

28. Mitigation.

A modification to replace or remove one (1) or several nonconforming antenna-supporting structure(s) located in close proximity to a proposed new antenna-supporting structure, or to replace or remove one (1) or several nonconforming building-mounted antennas in close proximity of a proposed new building-mounted antennas, in order to encourage compliance with the ordinance, improve aesthetics or functionality of the overall wireless network.

29. Monopole.

A style of freestanding antenna-supporting structure that is composed of a single shaft usually composed of two (2) or more hollow sections that are in turn attached to a foundation. This type of antenna-supporting facility is designed to support itself without the use of guy wires or other stabilization devices. These facilities are mounted to a foundation that rests on or in the ground.

30. Pedestrian or Higher Elevation Views.

Views from higher physical grade, or buildings into equipment installations that are screened by fencing, including views from residential and commercial building windows and decks.

31. Platform.

A mounting structure to which one (1) or more antennas, sufficient to serve the needs of one (1) or more wireless telecommunications carriers’ installation(s), are attached, and which is affixed to a antenna-supporting structure.

32. Public Safety Communications Equipment.

All communications equipment utilized by the City for the purpose of operation in the interest of the safety of the citizens of SeaTac and operating within the frequency range of eight hundred six (806) MHz and one thousand (1,000) MHz and future spectrum allocations at the direction of the FCC.

33. Radio Frequency Emissions.

Any electromagnetic radiation or other communications signal emitted from an antenna or antenna-related equipment on the ground, antenna-supporting structure, building, or other vertical projection.

34. Satellite Earth Station (Satellite Dish).

A single or group of satellite parabolic (or dish) antennas. These dishes are mounted to a supporting device that may be a pole or truss assembly attached to a foundation in the ground, or in some other configuration. A satellite earth station may include the associated separate equipment shelters necessary for the transmission or reception of wireless communications signals with satellites. Satellite earth stations of one (1) meter or less are used primarily for the purposes of home entertainment and personal data systems.

35. Telecommunications Master Plan.

A plan developed to enforce applicable development standards, State statutes and Federal regulations related to the deployment of wireless telecommunications infrastructure.

36. Temporary Wireless Telecommunications Facility (Temporary WTF).

A WTF which is to be placed in use for a limited period of time, is not deployed in a permanent manner, and does not have a permanent foundation.

37. Tower.

A freestanding structure designed solely to support an antenna(s) or antenna platform(s).

38. Wireless Communications.

Any personal wireless service, which includes, but is not limited to, cellular, personal communication services (PCS), specialized mobile radio (SMR), enhanced specialized mobile radio (ESMR), unlicensed spectrum services utilizing Part 15 devices (i.e., wireless internet services) and paging.

39. Wireless Communication Facility (WCF).

Any fixed location for the transmission and/or reception of radio frequency signals, or other wireless communications, and usually consisting of an antenna or group of antennas, feed lines, telephone lines, and equipment shelters, and may include an antenna-supporting structure.

40. Wireless Communication Facility, Attached.

An antenna or antenna array that is secured to an existing building or structure with any accompanying pole or device which attaches it to the building or structure, feed lines, and equipment, which may be located either on the roof or inside or outside of the existing building or structure. An attached wireless communications facility is considered to be an accessory use to the existing principal or structure use on a site.

41. Wireless Communications Facility, Concealed Attached.

An attached wireless communications facility, ancillary structure, or WCF equipment compound that is not readily identifiable as such, and is designed to be aesthetically compatible with existing and proposed buildings on a site. A concealed attached facility includes, but is not limited to, flush-mounted antenna and feed lines painted to match the color of a building or structure, faux windows, dormers or other architectural features that blend with an existing or proposed building or structure.

42. Wireless Communications Facility, Concealed Freestanding.

A wireless communications facility, ancillary structure, or WCF equipment compound that is not readily identifiable as such, and is designed to be aesthetically compatible with existing and proposed uses on a site. A concealed facility may have a secondary function, including, but not limited to, the following: church steeple, windmill, bell tower, clock tower, cupola, light standard, flagpole with a flag, or tree.

43. Wireless Communications Facility, Nonconcealed Attached.

A nonconcealed attached wireless communication facility is one that is readily identifiable, such as a pole with a mounting platform containing panel antennas, attached to a roof and/or rising above the roofline of a building.

44. Wireless Communications Facility, Nonconcealed Freestanding.

A freestanding wireless communication facility, ancillary structure, or WCF equipment compound that is readily identifiable, such as a monopole or lattice tower.

45. Zones, High Intensity.

Zones that typically involve commercial or industrial rather than residential uses. Such zones are limited to Community Business (CB and CB-C), Industrial (I), Aviation Business Center (ABC), Business Park (BP), Office Commercial Medium (O/CM), Aviation Commercial (AVC) and Aviation Operations (AVO).

46. Zones, Low Intensity.

Zones that typically include or are adjacent to residential uses, including the Urban Low (UL), Urban Medium (UM), Urban High (UH), Townhouse (T), Office/Commercial Mixed Use (O/C/MU), Neighborhood Business (NB), Mobile Home Park (MHP), and Park (P) Zones. (Ord. 04-1030 § 2; Ord. 97-1013 § 1)

15.31A.031 Review and Approval Process

A. Permits Required.

Any application submitted pursuant to this chapter shall be evaluated by the Director of Community and Economic Development in accordance with the City’s Wireless Telecommunication Master Plan (plan) to confirm consistency with the plan. The City’s plan, a copy of which is on file with the City Clerk, was adopted on December 14, 2004, and may be amended and revised by a resolution.

1. Building/Electrical Permits. A building and/or electrical permit is required for all WCFs.

2. Minor Conditional Use Permits (Minor CUP). A Minor Conditional Use Permit is required for the following as outlined in subsections (B) and (C) of this section: new freestanding concealed antenna-support structures in low intensity zones, provided such facility is allowed per subsection (C) of this section.

3. Major Conditional Use Permits (Major CUP). A Major Conditional Use Permit is required for the following as listed in subsections (B) and (C) of this section: flush-mounted collocations on existing nonconcealed WCFs.

4. Variance. A variance from the standards regarding height, aesthetics (including concealment), equipment enclosures and the dimensions of freestanding poles specified in this chapter may be granted only pursuant to the criteria set forth in SMC 15.22.020(D). The permit process for any facility applying for a variance from such standards shall be a Major Conditional Use Permit. A variance from the standards regarding setbacks, landscaping, and fencing specified in this chapter may be granted, subject to the criteria and process set forth in SMC 15.22.020(B).

5. Other Permits. In addition to the permits listed above and in the table in subsection (B) of this section, other permits may be required, including but not limited to grading, and right-of-way permits. Additionally, any provider locating within the City right-of-way will be required to have a valid franchise agreement on file with the City. Facilities locating on City property will require a lease agreement.

6. Independent Review. The City may, at the applicant’s expense, have an independent radio frequency engineer or other qualified consultant review all materials submitted for review by the City. WCF review by the independent radio frequency engineer is subject to the following:

a. The cost for independent review shall be paid by the applicant.

b. The reviewer may request from the applicant additional information to that listed in the submittal requirements if, in the reviewer’s opinion, such information is necessary for the review.

c. Based on the results of the independent review, the approving authority may require changes to the applicant’s application or submittals.

d. The independent review may address any or all of the following:

i. The accuracy and completeness of the application and accompanying documentation.

ii. The applicability of analysis techniques and methodologies.

iii. The validity of conclusions reached.

iv. Whether the proposed WCF complies with the applicable approval criteria set forth in this chapter and any other applicable City codes.

v. Whether the proposed WCF complies with applicable State and Federal guidelines.

vi. Other items deemed by the City to be relevant to determining whether a proposed wireless communications facility complies with the provisions of this chapter and any other applicable City codes.

B. The following table summarizes the types of WCFs that are permitted in each zone subject to the siting hierarchy in SMC 15.31A.032 and the type of permits required:


	Concealed Attached WCF	Concealed Collocation on Existing Concealed Freestanding WCF	New Concealed Freestanding WCF	Mitigation of Existing WCF	Flush-Mounted Collocation on an Existing Nonconcealed WCF1	Antenna Element Replacement or Combining2
Low Intensity Zones3
UL	Building/ Electrical	Building/ Electrical	Minor CUP and Building/ Electrical	Building/ Electrical	Major CUP and Building/ Electrical	Building/ Electrical
UM	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Minor CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	1	Building/Electrical
UH	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Minor CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	1	Building/Electrical
MHP	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Minor CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	1	Building/Electrical
T	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Minor CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	1	Building/Electrical
P	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Minor CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	1	Building/Electrical
O/C/MU	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Minor CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	1	Building/Electrical
NB	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Minor CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Major CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical
High Intensity Zones
I	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Major CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical
BP	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Major CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical
ABC	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Major CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/ Electrical
CB	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Major CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical
CB-C	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Major CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical
O/CM	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical	Major CUP and Building/Electrical	Building/Electrical

1. The City is not aware of any existing WCFs in these zoning districts; however, if one does exist, then it shall be subject to the same regulations as the UL zone.

2. Provided there is no increase in the number of feed lines, and/or the size of number of antennas, or in the aesthetic impact of the replacement. See SMC 15.31A.040(C) for specifics.

3. See subsection C of this section for restrictions on residentially zoned property that is vacant or contains a residential use.

C. In residential zones, new concealed freestanding antenna-supporting structures shall only be permitted on lots whose principal use is not single-family residential, including, but not limited to: schools, churches, water towers, fire stations, parks, and other public property. The following table summarizes the types of WCF and WCF equipment that can be located on residentially zoned properties containing various uses:


Use within a Residential Zone	Concealed Attached WCF	Concealed Free-standing WCF	Equipment Enclosure
Single-Family Residence	No	No	Conditional*
Multi-Family Residences	Yes	No	Yes
Vacant	No	Conditional**	Conditional**
Water tower, church, school, park, or other nonresidential use	Yes	Conditional	Yes/Conditional***

* For concealed equipment associated with a WCF in a right-of-way, where no other option for placement of the equipment is feasible or appropriate, the minor CUP process may consider whether an equipment enclosure is compatible with the existing and adjacent uses and the character of the area based on concealed equipment design, proximity to other residential uses, and existence of mature landscaping and/or topography. If approved, equipment shall be limited to one (1) three hundred sixty (360) foot enclosure on a single-family lot.

** On vacant residential property, the minor CUP process may consider whether the concealed facility’s design, proximity to other residential uses, and existence of mature landscaping and/or topography would allow for a freestanding WCF that is compatible with adjacent uses and the character of the area.

*** Based on the process for the WCF.

(Ord. 11-1002 § 3; Ord. 04-1030 § 2)

15.31A.032 Siting Hierarchy

A. Siting of a WCF shall be in accordance with the following siting alternatives hierarchy, with the exception of mitigation of an existing nonconcealed WCF, which shall be in accordance with subsection (C) of this section:

1. A Concealed Attached WCF.

2. In Certain Rights-of-Way.

a. Concealed collocation on an existing concealed freestanding WCF;

b. Concealed freestanding WCF.

3. Collocation or Freestanding.

a. Concealed collocation on an existing concealed freestanding WCF;

b. Concealed freestanding WCF;

c. Flush-mounted collocation on an existing nonconcealed WCF.

B. The order of ranking preference, from highest to lowest, shall be subsections (A)(1), (A)(2)(a), (A)(2)(b), (A)(3)(a), (A)(3)(b), and (A)(3)(c) of this section, except for mitigation of an existing nonconcealed WCF which is described in subsection (C) of this section. Where a lower ranking alternative is proposed, the applicant must file relevant information as indicated in SMC 15.31A.050(A)(3)(f) and (g) including, but not limited to, an affidavit by a radio frequency engineer demonstrating that despite diligent efforts to adhere to the established hierarchy within the geographic search area, higher ranking options are not technically feasible or justified given the location of the proposed wireless communications facility.

Where a freestanding WCF is permitted, then the order of ranking preference for the freestanding WCF shall be (A)(2)(a), (A)(2)(b), (A)(3)(a), (A)(3)(b), and (A)(3)(c). Where a lower ranking alternative is proposed, the applicant must file relevant information as indicated in SMC 15.31A.050(A)(3)(f) and subsection (C)(2) of this section, and demonstrate higher ranked options are not technically feasible, or justified given the location of the proposed wireless communications facility, and the existing land uses of the subject and surrounding properties within three hundred (300) feet of the subject property.

C. An exception to the hierarchy shall occur in those cases where mitigation of an existing nonconcealed WCF would occur. Mitigation (replacement of an existing nonconcealed facility with a concealed facility in full compliance with the current code) is encouraged by the City to reduce the visual impact of existing nonconcealed facilities and is subject to the following benefits:

1. Expedited permit review;

2. Waiver of all planning, building and electrical permit fees except for independent review fees, if applicable;

3. Height bonus per SMC 15.31A.035. (Ord. 07-1004 § 2: Ord. 04-1030 § 2)

15.31A.033 Attached WCFs – Specific Development Standards

A. Attached Concealed WCF.

1. Height. The height of attached concealed WCFs shall not exceed twenty (20) feet above the existing building or water tower. The additional height shall not exceed applicable FAA limitations.

2. Antenna Aesthetics. If the antenna is attaching onto the wall, rooftop or other side of an existing building or structure, then the antenna shall be flush-mounted, encased, and designed to match the principal structure or building on which it is affixing. The antenna shall not extend more than fifteen (15) inches from the side of the building to which it is affixing, measured from the outside of the building wall to the inside or backing of the antenna.

If the antenna cannot be flush mounted to the existing building or water tower, then a faux parapet, elevator shaft, chimney or other similar architectural feature may be designed and constructed for the purposes of attaching and/or concealing the antenna to the existing structure or building. Faux designs shall match and blend with the color, texture and architectural features of the existing structure or building.

3. Feed Lines. Feed lines shall not be seen from pedestrian or higher elevation views. Feed lines shall be contained within a principal building or encased and the encasement painted to blend and match the design, color, and texture of the facade, roof, wall or structure to which they are affixing. Feed lines may be painted rather than encased and painted if the Director of Community and Economic Development determines that the visual impact is lessened through this method. Unless they are located inside an enclosed compound, feedlines between the base of a tower or building and the ground equipment shall be located underground. (Ord. 11-1002 § 3; Ord. 04-1030 § 2)

15.31A.034 Collocated WCFs – Specific Development Standards

A. Collocation on an Existing Concealed Freestanding WCF.

1. Height. The height of WCFs collocating on existing concealed antenna-supporting structures shall not exceed a maximum height of sixty (60) feet in a low intensity zone and eighty (80) feet in a high intensity zone; and shall not exceed applicable FAA height limitations.

2. Antenna Aesthetics. Antenna shall match the overall design of the approved concealed freestanding WCF.

3. Equipment Enclosures. Shall be installed according to the master site plan for the equipment compound and subject to the development standards of SMC 15.31A.040.

4. Feed Lines. Shall be installed inside the concealed antenna supporting structure and shall not be visible.

5. Intensity. The number of concealed antenna arrays on a concealed freestanding WCF shall not be limited; provided, that the increased number of antenna and/or equipment enclosures meet the following criteria:

a. The increased number of antennas and/or equipment enclosures does not lessen the ability of the site to meet the requirements for concealment and screening;

b. The site is sized and located so that the increased number of antennas and/or equipment enclosures does not negatively impact adjacent properties in any of the following manners:

i. Removal of existing mature landscaping necessary to screen the site;

ii. Exceeding the site’s capacity to combine and coordinate equipment compounds in an orderly manner; or

iii. Creating a number of accessory buildings, or size of accessory building, on a site, either of which would be unusual and visually intrusive to the character of a neighborhood or area.

B. Collocation on an Existing Nonconcealed Freestanding WCF.

1. Existing Capacity. Collocation on an existing nonconcealed freestanding WCF shall only be allowed where:

a. A higher-ranked installation is not technically feasible;

b. The facility was built with the structural capacity for the additional facility and no structural upgrades will be required for such collocation.

2. Height. Antennas shall not exceed the height of the antenna supporting structure on which it is affixing.

3. Antenna Aesthetics. New antenna installations shall be flush-mounted onto existing WCFs.

4. Setbacks. Equipment enclosures and all ancillary equipment are required to meet the setbacks of the underlying zoning district.

5. Landscaping. Landscaping shall be brought into compliance with the standards described in SMC 15.31A.040(G).

6. Feed Lines. Shall be concealed to the greatest extent possible.

7. Intensity.

a. In High Intensity Zones. The maximum number of platforms shall be four (4).

b. In Low Intensity Zones. The maximum number of platforms shall be two (2), except where the Director of Community and Economic Development determines that a lower number is needed to protect the character of the existing neighborhood. (Ord. 11-1002 § 3; Ord. 04-1030 § 2)

15.31A.035 Mitigation – Specific Development Standards

A. Development Standards.

1. Height. The height for a WCF approved for mitigation may exceed the height of the tallest freestanding WCF that is being mitigated by a maximum of twenty (20) feet and may exceed the height of the tallest attached WCF that is being mitigated by a maximum of ten (10) feet.

2. Aesthetics. Mitigated facilities shall meet all code requirements for the type of facility being mitigated.

3. Equipment Compounds. The existing equipment compound shall be brought into compliance with standards described in SMC 15.31A.040(B).

4. Equipment Enclosures. All existing equipment shelters shall be brought into compliance with standards described in SMC 15.31A.040(A) and (B).

5. Screening. Landscaping and fencing shall be brought into compliance with the standards of SMC 15.31A.040(F) and (G).

6. Feed Lines. Shall be installed inside the concealed antenna supporting structure and shall not be visible.

7. Incentives. Mitigation is subject to the incentives listed in SMC 15.31A.032. (Ord. 04-1030 § 2)

15.31A.036 New Concealed Freestanding WCFs – Specific Development Standards

A. Height.

1. Low Intensity Zones. The maximum height shall be sixty (60) feet, including foundations, but excluding lightning rods or lighting as required by the FAA.

2. High Intensity Zones. The maximum height shall be eighty (80) feet, including foundations, but excluding lightning rods or lighting as required by the FAA.

B. Aesthetics. Any new freestanding antenna-supporting structure must be a concealed freestanding antenna-supporting structure as defined in SMC 15.31A.022 and shall be configured, located and designed to complement or match adjacent structures and landscapes with specific design considerations such as architectural designs, height, scale, color, and texture. The concealment design shall minimize visual impact through quality of materials and close resemblance to: (1) adjacent landscaping, (2) a feature that is commonly associated with the primary use of the property, or (3) a pedestrian amenity appropriate to the area, such as a light pole, clock tower, fountain or water feature. Up to three (3) design concepts may be required to be submitted for consideration, with the final design being determined by the Director of Community and Economic Development based on positive visual impact and appropriateness to the context of the site.

C. Setback.

1. Equipment enclosures and all ancillary equipment is required to meet the setbacks of the underlying zoning district.

2. Within the Urban Center, new support structures shall be located as far to the rear of the site as the setbacks will allow, to preserve as much of the site as possible for future development.

3. On properties fronting Angle Lake, or containing other amenities, new support structures shall be located to preserve open space, views, and future site development potential.

4. Setback departures may be allowed by the Director of Community and Economic Development for pedestrian amenities whose placement closer to the property line provides a public benefit.

D. Feed Lines. Shall be installed inside the concealed antenna supporting structure and shall not be visible.

E. Intensity. The number of antennas on a new concealed freestanding WCF shall not be limited; provided, that the following criteria shall be met:

1. The increased number of antennas and/or equipment enclosures does not lessen the ability of the site to meet the requirements for concealment and screening;

2. The site is sized and located so that the increased number of antennas and/or equipment enclosures does not negatively impact adjacent properties in any of the following manners:

a. Removal of existing mature landscaping necessary to screen the site;

b. Exceeding the site’s capacity to combine and coordinate equipment compounds in an orderly manner;

c. Creating a number of accessory buildings or a size of accessory building on a site, either of which would be unusual and visually intrusive to the character of a neighborhood or area.

F. In Rights-of-Way.

1. Antenna-Supporting Structure. Only concealed, freestanding WCFs will be permitted in designated rights-of-way per subsection (F)(4)(d) of this section. No utility wires may be attached to the concealed freestanding WCF.

2. Height.

a. Rights-of-Way in Low Intensity Zones. No antenna-supporting structure, including the wireless antenna, shall exceed a height of forty-five (45) feet measured from the base of the pole.

b. Rights-of-Way in High Intensity Zones. No antenna-supporting structure, including the wireless antenna, shall exceed a height of fifty-five (55) feet measured from the base of the pole.

c. If a right-of-way is abutted by both high and low intensity zones, the right-of-way shall be considered to be in a low intensity zone.

3. Dimensions. Concealed freestanding WCFs in rights-of-way must be tapered and shall measure no more than twenty-six (26) inches in diameter at the base and shall taper to no more than eighteen (18) inches diameter at the top of the pole.

4. Intensity and Location.

a. The number of WCFs located on a freestanding antenna-supporting structure in the right-of-way shall be limited to two (2), unless it can be shown that the criteria in subsection (D) of this section are met.

b. Where possible, freestanding antenna-supporting structures in the right-of-way shall be located at property line extensions rather than in front of a residential or retail commercial structure.

c. Freestanding antenna-supporting structures in the right-of-way shall be separated by a minimum of one hundred (100) feet and sited so that no more than one (1) such structure is located adjacent to any one (1) single-family property.

d. Freestanding antenna-supporting structures shall only be located in right-of-way areas approved by the Public Works Department based on case-by-case review of a site in relation to existing and proposed utilities, road width, and safety considerations. Generally, a freestanding antenna-supporting structure shall not be allowed on an arterial street where utilities have been placed underground or are anticipated to be placed underground.

G. Pedestrian Amenity. Freestanding antenna-supporting structures that incorporate a pedestrian amenity appropriate to the area, such as bus shelter, street furniture, pedestrian street lighting, clock tower, fountain or water feature are encouraged. Design for such WTF in a right-of-way must meet the approval of the Directors of Community and Economic Development and Public Works. WTF with pedestrian amenities shall be subject to the following benefits:

1. Expedited review;

2. Refund of planning and building permit fees upon design approval, except for independent review fees, if applicable. (Ord. 11-1002 § 3; Ord. 04-1030 § 2)

15.31A.040 General Development Standards for All WCFs

All WCFs shall be subject to the following:

A. Equipment Enclosures.

1. Each service provider shall be limited to an equipment enclosure installation not to exceed three hundred sixty (360) square feet in area at each WCF site.

2. All new equipment enclosures shall be part of a master site design for the equipment compound.

a. The design shall coordinate the placement of the equipment enclosures so that enclosures are contiguous or otherwise organized to minimize aesthetic impacts to the property.

b. If a site is being designed for multiple known providers, one (1) accessory building with multiple compartments to serve the total number of collocation tenants and their designated equipment or equipment enclosures may be required by the City.

3. Equipment enclosures shall be concealed from pedestrian or higher elevation views through one (1) of the following methods. The approved method shall offer the most appropriate concealment of the equipment or equipment enclosure for the site as determined by the Director of Community and Economic Development.

a For attached WCFs:

i. Located within the principal building on the site;

ii. Located behind a wall, parapet, louvers or other concealment materials meeting the intent of concealing the equipment or equipment enclosure on the rooftop or ground from pedestrian and higher elevation views.

b. For freestanding antenna-supporting structures:

i. Located underground or below grade, with the access to the site concealed in one (1) of the following manners:

(A) The access is no more than eighteen (18) inches above grade; or

(B) The access is concealed by landscaping, grade, placement out of view, or by treatment as a pedestrian amenity.

Underground Equipment Enclosure

Access Concealed Through Grade

ii. Enclosed within an accessory building compatible with the architectural features of the principal building or structure, such as building materials, roof pitch, and siding color and texture. This option shall be required in low intensity zones, unless another option contained in this section is approved as an alternative by the Director of Community and Economic Development if the equipment is not visible from pedestrian or high-elevation views.

The accessory building may have a secondary function ancillary to the principal building or structure of the concealed WCF that it serves.

iii. Surrounded by an opaque fence constructed of cedar or other high-quality fencing material meeting the criteria of subsection (F) of this section as approved by the Director of Community and Economic Development.

4. In Rights-of-Way. When a WCF is located in the right-of-way, equipment enclosures shall be located underground, below grade or on adjacent property, per the standards of subsection (A)(3) of this section, unless an exemption is granted as described below. The approved method shall offer the best concealment of the equipment enclosure for the site as determined by the Director of Community and Economic Development.

The Directors of Community and Economic Development and Public Works may approve an above-ground equipment enclosure if the total installation comprises less than six (6) cubic feet and if the installation is more appropriate than an underground facility due to existing vegetation, the location of existing infrastructure, construction impacts, or other similar factors. In all cases, an above-ground equipment enclosure shall be mounted to the ground, not mounted or attached to a pedestal, and the cumulative size of all equipment shall not exceed six (6) cubic feet.

B. Equipment Compound.

1. All compounds shall be screened from pedestrian or higher elevation view, as determined by the Director of Community and Economic Development, by utilizing a matching design of opaque screening, such as cedar or other approved high quality fencing material per subsection (F) of this section, through topography, through planting of new landscaping, and/or through retention of existing mature landscaping. All fencing shall be located inside of any required landscaping.

2. The WCF equipment compound shall not be used for the storage of any excess equipment or hazardous waste (i.e., discarded batteries), nor be used as habitable space. No outdoor storage yards shall be allowed in a WCF equipment compound.

C. Addition or Upgrade of Equipment on a Legal Nonconforming Site.

1. Freestanding WCF.

a. Existing Antennas and/or Feed Lines. Upgrades of existing antennas and feed lines on legal nonconforming freestanding WCF shall be allowed, provided the number, approximate size, and visual impact of antennas and feed lines are not increased.

Addition or expansion of equipment cabinets or enclosures shall be allowed only if the carrier’s existing and proposed equipment enclosure/compound meets the standards for screening in this code.

b. New Antennas and/or Feed Lines. Addition of new antennas and feed lines on legal nonconforming freestanding WCF shall be allowed on existing platforms as follows:

i. Permitted. Antennas vested under a valid permit shall be allowed to be installed per that permit’s approval and conditions.

ii. Interim Permit with Agreement for Future Upgrade. Antennas that exceed the number on the existing platform, but do not exceed the capacity of the existing platform, shall be allowed to be added on an interim basis, providing:

(A) An agreement is signed by the provider to upgrade the freestanding facility to a concealed facility meeting the full requirements of this code within three (3) years;

(B) The size of the antennas and feed lines are comparable to those on the existing platform.

Where an agreement has been signed to upgrade to a concealed facility within three (3) years, equipment may be upgraded and/or added within a compound without the requirement for new landscaping. Opaque fencing may be required.

2. Attached WCF.

a. Within the Urban Center – Existing or New Antennas and/or Feed Lines. Upgrades to antennas and feed lines for existing nonconcealed antennas within the Urban Center shall be required to meet the full standards of this code.

Addition or expansion of equipment cabinets or enclosures shall be allowed, only if the carrier’s new and existing equipment meet the standards for screening in this code.

b. Outside the Urban Center – Existing Antennas and/or Feedlines. Upgrades of existing nonconcealed antennas outside the Urban Center shall be allowed, provided the number, approximate size, and visual impact of antennas and feed lines are not increased.

Addition or expansion of equipment cabinets or enclosures shall be allowed only if the carrier’s existing and proposed equipment enclosure/compound meets the standards for screening in this code.

c. Outside the Urban Center – New Antennas and/or Feedlines. Addition of new antennas on nonconcealed arrays outside the Urban Center shall be subject to the standards of subsection (C)(1)(b) of this section.

3. Addition of Generators to Sites. Addition of generators to existing legal nonconforming sites shall be allowed within a compound; provided, that all equipment screening and landscaping standards contained in this chapter are met.

4. Addition of E-911 Enhancement Equipment to Site. Addition of E-911 enhancement equipment shall be allowed on legal nonconforming sites providing that attachments on support structures or addition to ground equipment shall meet all City WCF standards for concealment and screening.

D. Signage. The only signage that is permitted upon an antenna-supporting structure, equipment enclosure, shelter, or fence (if applicable) shall be informational, and for the purpose of identifying the antenna-supporting structure, such as antenna structure registration (ASR) number, as well as the party responsible for the operation and maintenance of the facility, its current address and telephone number, security or safety signs, and property manager signs (if applicable). A twenty-four (24) hour emergency contact name and number is required to be posted on the site. If more than two hundred twenty (220) voltage is necessary for the operation of the facility and is present in a ground grid or in the tower, signs located every twenty (20) feet and attached to the fence or wall shall display in large, bold, high contrast letters (minimum height of each letter: four (4) inches the following: “HIGH VOLTAGE – DANGER.” WCFs and WCF equipment compounds shall be constructed and maintained in conformance with all applicable building code requirements.

E. Setbacks.

1. Low Intensity Zones. For new antenna-supporting structures, the required setbacks shall be measured from the base of the antenna-supporting structure or from the edge of the equipment shelter or compound, whichever is closer to the property line. The setbacks shall be a minimum of twenty (20) feet on all sides.

2. High Intensity Zones. For new antenna-supporting structures, the required setbacks shall be measured from the base of the antenna-supporting structure or from the edge of the equipment shelter or compound, whichever is closer to the property line. The minimum setbacks shall be as follows:

a. Front: Ten (10) feet;

b. Side: Five (5) feet;

c. Rear: Five (5) feet.

The setbacks shall be a minimum of twenty (20) feet on the sides adjacent to low intensity zones.

For new WCFs located on existing buildings, the WCF shall be allowed to project into the setback; provided, that such projection does not exceed twelve (12) inches.

F. Fencing. Fences are not required, unless utilized for required screening of an equipment enclosure or compound. Where required, fences shall meet the following criteria:

1. Materials shall be weather-resistant.

2. Materials and design shall be appropriate to the character of the site.

3. Unless otherwise specified, fencing shall be a maximum of six (6) feet in height, or one (1) foot taller than the proposed equipment enclosure, whichever is greater. In no case shall the fence be taller than eight (8) feet.

4. Barbed, or other types of security wire are prohibited.

5. All fencing shall be located inside of any required landscaping.

The Director of Community and Economic Development may specify the size, type and materials to be used for the fencing to ensure compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood.

G. Landscaping.

1. Low Intensity Zones. For freestanding WCFs, and ground-based equipment, landscaping shall be Type I, ten (10) feet, on all sides. In all cases, the landscaping shall be located on the outside of any fence that is used. Irrigation shall be required per SMC 15.14.200.

Landscaping standards may be modified at the discretion of the Director of Community and Economic Development, in cases where the need for landscaping is eliminated by adequate natural screening, existing landscape buffers, topography, the placement of the WCF among buildings, or other suitable screening as determined by the Director of Community and Economic Development.

2. High Intensity Landscaping. For freestanding WCFs and ground-based equipment, the street frontage landscaping shall be Type II, ten (10) feet, and side and rear landscaping shall be Type II, five (5) feet. Where adjacent to low intensity zones, new support structures shall provide ten (10) feet of Type II landscaping on that side(s). In all cases, the landscaping shall be located on the outside of any fence that is used. Irrigation shall be required per SMC 15.14.200.

H. Lighting.

1. Only lighting required by FAA regulations, as supported by the “Determination of no hazard” document issued by the same agency, is allowed on support structures or antennas. Where lighting is required by FAA regulations, the light source shall be hooded or directed to shield adjacent properties, except where prohibited by FAA regulations. Any lighting required by the FAA must be of the minimum intensity and number of flasher per minute (i.e., the longest duration between flashes) allowable by the FAA. Dual lighting standards are required and strobe light standards are prohibited unless required by the FAA.

2. Any security lighting for on-ground facilities and equipment shall be user-operated or motion-activated only.

I. Noise. WCFs shall meet all existing noise standards as per SMC 15.18.020. In addition, noise levels shall not exceed ambient noise levels when measured at the property boundaries except in designated emergencies or for emergency generator testing. Generator testing is allowed only between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

J. Parking. Parking for one (1) maintenance vehicle shall be provided on site or allowed for in the site lease unless on-street parking is available adjacent to the site.

K. Public Safety. Any applicant for facilities under this section shall certify that such proposed facility shall comply with all applicable Federal regulations regarding interference protection, including but not limited to Federal regulations regarding adjacent channel receiver (blanket) overload and intermodulation distortion as specified in SMC 15.31A.050(A)(3)(h).

L. Maintenance. All required landscaping shall be maintained as per SMC 15.14.210. In addition, painted or otherwise coated surfaces and concealment treatments shall be continually maintained or the structure shall be subject to removal at the expense of the responsible party.

M. Abandonment. Any WCF that is abandoned shall be reported immediately to the Director of Community and Economic Development by the service provider. The service provider shall include documentation of the date that use of the WCF was discontinued. The service provider shall remove the abandoned WCF and restore the aboveground site features to their pre-existing condition within six (6) months of the abandonment, unless another service provider commits to using the site/facility as specified below. If the abandoned WCF is not removed and the site restored within the specified time frame, the City may conduct the removal and/or restoration at the service provider’s expense. If there are two (2) or more users of a single WCF, then this provision shall not become effective until all users cease using the WCF. If another service provider has committed to continue the use of the abandoned WCF, the abandoned WCF does not need to be removed; provided, that:

1. A letter of intent to operate the abandoned facility is submitted to the City by the new service provider; and

2. The WCF is put into service, or an application for a WCF has been submitted within three (3) months of the letter of intent, and is actively being pursued. (Ord. 11-1002 § 3; Ord. 04-1030 § 2)

15.31A.050 Submittal Requirements for All WCFs

A. General. This section shall apply to all WCFs except antenna element replacements and combining. Antenna element replacements and combining submittal requirements are located in SMC 15.31A.050(D).

Prior to application submittal, an applicant must attend a preapplication meeting before the City’s Development Review Committee.

1. With each application, the applicant shall provide an inventory of its existing antenna-supporting structures that are within the jurisdiction of the City and/or within one-quarter (1/4) mile of the border thereof, including specific information about the location, height, design, and performance specifications of each tower or monopole. The Community and Economic Development Department shall maintain a file containing this information, which will be available for review by applicants.

2. Each application shall illustrate and describe the WCF installation as it will be when fully deployed, even if the construction or installation will occur in phases.

3. Each WCF application for an attached, collocation, mitigated or freestanding WCF shall include the following:

a. Proposed maximum height of the proposed WCF, including individual measurement of the base, the antenna supporting structure and lightning rod.

b. A written statement detailing the antenna mounting elevations and power levels of the proposed antenna and all the mounting elevations and power levels of any other facilities on the subject property.

c. Photo-simulated post construction renderings of the proposed antenna-supporting structure, equipment enclosures, and ancillary structures from locations to be determined during the preapplication meeting (but shall, at a minimum, include renderings from the vantage point of any adjacent roadways and occupied or proposed nonresidential or residential structures), proposed exterior paint and stain samples for any items to be painted or stained, exterior building material and roof samples (all mounted on color board no larger than eleven (11) inches by seventeen (17) inches). If requested, materials detailing the locations of existing wireless communications facilities to which the proposed antenna will be a hand-off candidate; including latitude, longitude, and power levels of the proposed and existing antenna.

d. A map showing the designated geographic search area and a statement that the included search area map is, in fact, the same as used to identify the proposed site.

e. A radio frequency propagation plot indicating the existing and proposed signal coverage of existing and proposed wireless communications sites, coverage prediction, and design radius.

f. A written certification from the applicant’s radio frequency (RF) engineer that the proposed facility’s coverage or capacity potential cannot be achieved by a higher ranked alternative, if any. This certification shall not be required in cases where the City and the applicant mutually agree that higher ranked alternatives are not feasible.

g. Any other documentation, evidence, or materials necessary to demonstrate compliance with the applicable approval criteria set forth in this chapter as the applicant deems necessary.

h. Interference with Public Safety Communications. Each owner and applicant for a WCF shall agree in a written statement to the following:

i. Comply with good engineering practices as defined by the FCC in its rules and regulations.

ii. Comply with FCC regulations regarding susceptibility to radio frequency interference, frequency coordination requirements, general technical standards for power, antenna, bandwidth limitations, frequency stability, transmitter measurements, operating requirements, and any and all other Federal statutory and regulatory requirements relating to radio frequency interference (RFI).

iii. In the case of an application for collocation of facilities or the placement of a new WCF on a building or water tower containing an existing WCF, the applicant, together with the owner of the subject site, shall provide a composite analysis of all users of the site to determine that the applicant’s proposed facilities will not cause radio frequency interference with the City’s public safety communications equipment and will implement appropriate technical measures, as described in subsection (A)(3)(h)(iv)(A) of this section, to attempt to prevent such interference.

iv. Whenever the City has encountered radio frequency interference with the City’s public safety communications equipment, and the City reasonably believes that such interference has been or is being caused by one (1) or more WCFs, the following steps shall be taken:

(A) The City shall provide notification to all WCFs operating in the City of possible interference with the public safety communications equipment, and upon such notifications, the owners shall reasonably cooperate with the City and among themselves to investigate and mitigate the interference, if any, utilizing the procedures set for in the joint wireless industry-public safety “Best Practices Guide,” released by the FCC in February 2001, including the good engineering practices, as may be amended or revised by the FCC from time to time.

(B) If any WCF owner fails to cooperate with the City in complying with the owner’s obligations under this subsection or if the FCC makes a determination of radio frequency interference with the City’s public safety communications equipment, the owner who failed to cooperate and/or the owner of the WCF which caused the interference shall be responsible, upon FCC determination of radio frequency interference, for reimbursing the City for all costs associated with ascertaining and resolving the interference, including but not limited to any engineering studies obtained by the City to determine the source of the interference. For the purposes of this subsection, failure to cooperate shall include failure to initiate any response or action as described in the “Best Practices Guide” within twenty-four (24) hours of City’s notification.

i. Prior to issuance of a building permit, proof of FAA compliance with Subpart C of the Federal Aviation Regulations Part 77, Objects Affecting Navigable Airspace.

j. All applications for WCFs shall comply with all applicable FAA and Federal Communication Commission (FCC) regulations.

B. Attached WCFs and Collocations. In addition to SMC 15.31A.040 the following is also required:

1. Certification furnished by a registered professional engineer licensed in the State of Washington that the WCF or structure has sufficient structural integrity in accordance with the latest published EIA/TIA codes and windspeed criteria for the district in which it is to be located to support the proposed antenna and feed lines in addition to all other equipment located or mounted on the structure.

2. A signed statement (including the signature’s qualifications) shall be included by a party representing the antenna-supporting structure’s owner or owner’s agent certifying that the radio frequency emissions of the proposal comply with FCC standards for such emissions, both individually and cumulatively and with any other facilities located on or immediately adjacent to the proposed facility.

C. Freestanding WCFs, and Mitigation of WCFs. In addition to SMC 15.31A.040 the following is also required:

1. A signed statement from the antenna-supporting structure owner agreeing to allow the collocation of other wireless equipment on the proposed antenna-supporting structure, if the structure is designed for collocation.

2. If an attached structure or collocation is higher on the hierarchy than a proposed freestanding structure proposed for the WCF, a copy of the following notice, with any and all responses or a statement that no responses were received, must be mailed by the applicant to all other wireless providers licensed to provide service within the City of SeaTac, and to the property owners of all existing structures exceeding forty (40) feet in height within one thousand (1,000) feet of the proposed site:

Pursuant to the requirements of the City of SeaTac Municipal Code 15.31A.050(C)(2), (wireless provider) is hereby providing you with notice of our intent to apply to the City of SeaTac to construct a wireless communications support structure at (address). The proposed support structure will be approximately ___ feet in height for the purpose of providing (type of service) service.

Please inform us whether you have any existing structures or wireless support structures in the vicinity of our proposed facility that may be available for our use. Please provide this information to us within ten working days from the date of this letter. If we receive no response from you within that time, we shall assume that you do not wish to pursue a wireless communications facility at this site.

3. A copy of the mailing labels, or a list of the names and addresses of the recipients of the notice described above.

4. A report and supporting technical data demonstrating that all antenna attachments and collocations as identified in the Master Plan inventory, including all potentially usable antenna-supporting structures, and other elevated structures within the proposed service area, and alternative antenna configurations have been examined, and found not to be acceptable, and the reasons such antenna-supporting structures, and other elevated structure are not acceptable. Costs of concealment technology that exceed facility development costs shall not be presumed to render the technology unsuitable. The report shall consist of one (1) or more of the following applicable findings, with supporting documentation:

a. No existing wireless communications facilities located within the geographic search area meet the applicant’s engineering requirements, and why.

b. Existing wireless communications facilities are not of sufficient height to meet the applicant’s engineering requirements, and cannot be increased in height.

c. Existing wireless communications facilities do not have sufficient structural integrity to support the applicant’s proposed wireless communications facilities and related equipment, and the existing facility cannot be sufficiently improved.

d. Other limiting factors that render existing wireless communications facilities unsuitable.

e. Technical data included in the report shall include certification by a registered professional engineer licensed in the State of Washington or other qualified professional, which qualifications shall be included, regarding service gaps or service expansions that are addressed by the proposed WCF, and accompanying maps and calculations demonstrating the need of the proposed WCF.

5. The applicant shall provide simulated photographic evidence of the proposed WCF’s appearance from any and all residential areas within one thousand five hundred (1,500) feet and vantage points, as chosen by the Director of Community and Economic Development, including the facility types the applicant has considered and the impact on adjacent properties including:

a. Overall height;

b. Configuration;

c. Physical location;

d. Mass and scale;

e. Materials and color;

f. Illumination.

The applicant shall provide a statement describing potential visual and aesthetic impacts of the proposed WCF on all adjacent residential zoning districts.

6. Certification furnished by a registered professional engineer licensed in the State of Washington, that the WCF has sufficient structural integrity to accommodate the required and proposed number of collocations.

7. Identification of the intended service providers of the WCF.

D. Antenna Element Replacements or Combining. Any applicant seeking to replace any existing antenna elements on a WCF, shall, prior to making such modifications, submit the following:

1. A written statement from the applicant setting forth the reasons for the modification.

2. A description of the proposed modifications to the WCF, including modifications to antenna element design, type and number, as well as any additional feed lines from the base of the WCF to such antenna elements.

3. A signed statement (including the signature’s qualifications) shall be included by a party representing the antenna-supporting structure’s owner or owner’s agent certifying that the radio frequency emissions of the proposal comply with FCC standards for such emissions, both individually and cumulatively and with any other facilities located on or immediately adjacent to the proposed facility.

4. A stamped or sealed structural analysis of the existing WCF prepared by a registered professional engineer licensed by the State of Washington indicating that the existing antenna-supporting structure as well as all existing and proposed appurtenances meets Washington Building Code requirements (including windloading) for the antenna-supporting structure. (Ord. 11-1002 §§ 2, 3; Ord. 04-1030 § 2)