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Chapter 15.10
Land Use DefinitionsSections:
15.10.005 Abandonment
15.10.010 Abut
15.10.016 Accessory Living Quarters
15.10.017 Accessory Structure
15.10.020 Accessory Use
15.10.025 Adult Entertainment
15.10.030 Adult Theater
15.10.035 Adult Use Establishment
15.10.036 Agricultural Crops
15.10.040 Aircraft Storage Area
15.10.042 Air Freight Terminal
15.10.045 Airport
15.10.047 Airport Terminal Facilities
15.10.050 Air Rights
15.10.056 Alley
15.10.060 Alter/Alteration
15.10.061 Amendment
15.10.061.05 Antenna
15.10.062 Antiques, Antique Shop
15.10.063 Area Zoning
15.10.065 Auction House
15.10.072 Automobile Towing/Storage Operation
15.10.073 Automobile Wrecking Operation
15.10.074 Automotive Service Center
15.10.075 Average Building Elevation
15.10.076 Base Flood
15.10.077 Base Flood Elevation
15.10.078 Base Area
15.10.078.05 Batch Plant
15.10.079 Beauty Salon
15.10.080 Bed and Breakfast/Guesthouse
15.10.081 Berm
15.10.083 Biomedical Product Facility
15.10.085 Book, Stationery, Video, Audio and Art Supply Store
15.10.090 Buffer
15.10.092 Building
15.10.095 Building, Hardware and Garden Materials Store
15.10.097 Butterfly/Moth Breeding, Wholesale/Retail
15.10.098 Cargo Containers
15.10.100 Cemetery
15.10.105 Church
15.10.106 Church, Accessory Uses
15.10.107 City Center
15.10.107.05 City Hall
15.10.108 Classification
15.10.109 Colleges – Universities
15.10.109.05 Collocation
15.10.109.08 Commercial/Industrial Accessory Uses
15.10.110 Commercial Recreation Area and Use
15.10.112 Commercial Marine Supplies
15.10.114 Commercial Wireless Telecommunications Facility (Commercial WTF)
15.10.115 Common Recreational Open Space Usable for Many Activities
15.10.120 Communication Facility, Major
15.10.125 Communication Facility, Minor
15.10.126 Community Center
15.10.130 Community Residential Facility (CRF)
15.10.135 Compensatory Storage
15.10.136 Comprehensive Plan
15.10.140 Conditional Use, Major
15.10.142 Conditional Use, Minor
15.10.145 Conference Center
15.10.150 Conforming Building Use
15.10.155 Convalescent Center/Nursing Home
15.10.156 Court
15.10.160 Critical Drainage Area
15.10.161 Cross-Section
15.10.165 Dairy
15.10.166 Day Care
15.10.170 Dedication
15.10.172 Density Bonus
15.10.175 Department and Variety Store
15.10.176 Disability
15.10.180 Domestic Animals
15.10.185 Dormitory
15.10.190 Drug Store
15.10.195 Dwelling Unit
15.10.200 Dwelling Unit, Apartment
15.10.205 Dwelling Unit, Efficiency
15.10.210 Dwelling Unit, Manufactured Home
15.10.215 Dwelling Unit, Mobile Home
15.10.217 Dwelling Unit, Modular Home
15.10.220 Dwelling Unit, Senior Citizen Assisted
15.10.225 Dwelling Unit, Single Detached
15.10.230 Dwelling Unit, Townhouse/Duplex
15.10.235 Easement
15.10.237 Efficiency Unit
15.10.240 Employees
15.10.241 Enhancement
15.10.243 Equipment Shelter
15.10.245 Erosion and Deposition
15.10.247 Espresso Stand
15.10.249 Essential Public Facility
15.10.250 Excavate(tion)
15.10.253 Existing Structure
15.10.255 Family
15.10.261 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Floodway
15.10.264 Fire Facility
15.10.265 Fill Material
15.10.266 Flood Fringe
15.10.267 Flood Hazard Areas
15.10.268 Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)
15.10.269 Flood Insurance Study for King County
15.10.270 Floodplain
15.10.271 Floodproofing
15.10.272 Flood Protection Elevation
15.10.273 Floodway, Zero-Rise
15.10.274 Floor Area
15.10.275 Food Processing
15.10.276 Forest Product Sales
15.10.280 Forest Product Sales, Temporary
15.10.285 General Business Service/Office
15.10.286 General Repair
15.10.290 Glare
15.10.291 Repealed
15.10.295 Grading
15.10.296 Group Home
15.10.297 Habitable Space
15.10.298 Halfway House
15.10.300 Hangar/Service Bay
15.10.305 Hazardous Production Material (HPM)
15.10.310 Hazardous Waste
15.10.315 Repealed
15.10.320 Repealed
15.10.324 Health Club
15.10.325 Health Hazard
15.10.327 Height
15.10.330 Heliport
15.10.335 Helistop
15.10.336 High Capacity Transit (HCT)
15.10.340 Home Occupation
15.10.345 Hospital
15.10.350 Hotel/Motel and Associated Uses
15.10.351 Impervious Surface
15.10.352 Improved Public Roadways
15.10.355 Junk
15.10.360 Kennel
15.10.361 Landscaping Business
15.10.362 Laundromat
15.10.363 Legal Lot
15.10.364 Livestock
15.10.365 Lot
15.10.370 Lot Area
15.10.375 Lot Coverage
15.10.380 Lot Lines
15.10.385 Lot, Substandard
15.10.390 Lot Types
15.10.395 Lot Width
15.10.396 Major Redevelopment
15.10.397 Massage Business
15.10.398 Maximum Yard Setback
15.10.400 Medical/Dental Clinic
15.10.402 Microcell
15.10.405 Microwave
15.10.406 Mitigation
15.10.407 Monitoring
15.10.408 Monopole
15.10.410 Multi-family Residential Dwelling Unit
15.10.415 Multi-Use Complex
15.10.416 Native Vegetation
15.10.420 Noise
15.10.425 Nonconformance, Legal
15.10.430 Nonconforming Use
15.10.431 Noxious Weed
15.10.433 Nursing Home
15.10.435 Open Space
15.10.436 Ordinary High Water Mark
15.10.438 Other Retail Uses
15.10.440 Overnight Shelter
15.10.445 Parking Lot
15.10.446 Parking Lot, Public/Private
15.10.448 Parking Space
15.10.450 Parties of Record
15.10.455 Passenger Terminal
15.10.465 Pedestrian Access
15.10.470 Perimeter Landscaping
15.10.470.05 Platform
15.10.471 Police Facility
15.10.485 Primary Vehicle Access
15.10.495 Public Access
15.10.500 Public Access Pier or Boardwalk
15.10.501 Public Agency Office
15.10.502 Public Agency Yard
15.10.503 Public Archives
15.10.505 Quasi-Public Utility
15.10.510 Radio Tower
15.10.511 Reasonable Use
15.10.515 Recreation, Community (Recreational Center)
15.10.520 Recreation, Public
15.10.530 Recreational Vehicle (RV)
15.10.535 Recycling
15.10.537 Regional Utility Corridor
15.10.540 Regulated Wetland
15.10.543 Renovation
15.10.545 Replacement Cost
15.10.550 Restaurant
15.10.551 Restaurant, Fast Food
15.10.552 Restoration
15.10.555 Retail Establishment
15.10.556 Retail Food Shop
15.10.557 Retention/Detention Facility
15.10.558 Retention/Detention Facility, Regional
15.10.560 Right-of-Way
15.10.561 Secondhand Store
15.10.561.05 Secure Community Transition Facility (SCTF)
15.10.562 Seismic Hazard Area
15.10.563 Self-Service Storage
15.10.564 Sensitive Area
15.10.565 SEPA
15.10.567 Setback
15.10.570 Shared Access Point
15.10.575 Shoreline Master Program
15.10.605 Significant Tree
15.10.606 Single Attached Dwelling Units
15.10.609 Site
15.10.610 Small, Resident-Oriented Uses
15.10.611 Social Service Office
15.10.612 Specialized Instruction School
15.10.613 Steep Slope Hazard Areas
15.10.615 Storm Drainage
15.10.620 Stream
15.10.623 Stream Functions
15.10.625 Street, Private
15.10.630 Street, Public
15.10.631 Structure
15.10.635 Support Structure
15.10.638 Tavern
15.10.639 Temporary Wireless Telecommunications Facility (Temporary WTF)
15.10.640 Topsoil
15.10.640.05 Tower
15.10.641 Townhouse
15.10.645 Traffic Control Devices
15.10.646 Transit Park and Ride Lot
15.10.648 Repealed
15.10.649 Transitional Housing
15.10.650 Uniform Building Code (UBC)
15.10.660 Urban Center
15.10.668 Use
15.10.668.05 Utility Pole
15.10.669 Utility Use
15.10.670 Utility Substation
15.10.671 Vocational-Technical Schools
15.10.675 Wetland
15.10.680 Wetland Edge
15.10.685 Wetland, Forested
15.10.690 Wetland Functions
15.10.700 Wetland, Isolated
15.10.705 Wet Meadow, Grazed
15.10.710 Wet Pond
15.10.713 Wireless Telecommunications Facility (WTF)
15.10.715 Zoning Map
15.10.005 Abandonment
Intentional discontinuation of electrical service to a wireless telecommunications facility (WTF) for sixty (60) or more days. (Ord. 97-1013 § 1)
15.10.010 Abut
To be contiguous with or touching property lines or right-of-way. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.016 Accessory Living Quarters
Living quarters within or attached significantly to the primary dwelling unit that do not exceed forty-five percent (45%) of the primary dwelling living quarters; such quarters can have kitchen facilities. The quarters shall be allowed for family members, persons employed on the premises or for use by guests of the occupants of the premises. The total number of people occupying the primary dwelling and the accessory living quarters shall not exceed the number of people associated with a family. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.017 Accessory Structure
A nonattached structure which is subordinate and incidental to the main structure on the property. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.020 Accessory Use
A use which is subordinate and incidental to the main activity or structure on the subject property. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.025 Adult Entertainment
Any exhibition or dance of any type conducted on premises where such exhibition or dance involves the exposure to view of any portion of the breast below the top of the areola or any portion of the pubic hair, anus, cleft of the buttocks, vulva or genitals. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.030 Adult Theater
Any theater while that theater is providing entertainment through the showing of motion picture films predominantly distinguished or characterized by their emphasis on matter explicitly depicting any of the following:
A. Human genitalia in a state of sexual stimulation or arousal;
B. Acts of human masturbation, sexual intercourse or sodomy;
C. Erotic fondling, touching or display of human genitalia, pubic region, buttock or female breast. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.035 Adult Use Establishment
A commercial enterprise predominantly involved in the selling, renting or presenting for viewing of books, magazines, motion pictures, films, video cassettes, cable television, or other media distinguished or characterized by a predominant emphasis on matter explicitly depicting the items set forth in SMC 15.10.030.
Examples of such establishments include, but are not limited to, adult book or video stores and establishments offering panorams or peep shows. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.036 Agricultural Crops
The products of agriculture which include fruits, vegetables, grains, seed, feed, flowers, ornamental and food bearing plants and trees, as well as animal products. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.040 Aircraft Storage Area
A building used to store private or public aircraft for short- or long-term periods of time. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.042 Air Freight Terminal
A building used by public and private aircraft for the on- or off-loading of air freight for distribution to wholesale and retail customers. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.045 Airport
Any runway, landing area or other facility directly designed or used by either public or private aircraft for the landing and taking off of aircraft, transfer of passengers and/or cargo, surface access, and other support facilities typically associated with airports, including:
A. Taxiway;
B. Control tower;
C. Communication, maintenance facilities;
D. Passenger, cargo terminals. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.047 Airport Terminal Facilities
The complex of buildings, parking garages, and associated structures and improvements which provide access, activities, and facilities for the use, support, and convenience of the traveling public and other airport users and employees. Airport terminal facilities are generally located in proximity to each other, with reasonable pedestrian access among them. (Ord. 95-1016 § 30)
15.10.050 Air Rights
The right to, in some manner, control the use of space above the surface of the ground. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.056 Alley
A public thoroughfare or way which generally affords only a secondary means of access to properties. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.060 Alter/Alteration
Any change, addition or modification in construction. Additionally, any human activity which results or is likely to result in any impact upon the existing condition of a sensitive area. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.061 Amendment
A change in the wording of this title, adoption of a zoning map hereunder, a change in the zone boundaries upon zoning maps adopted hereunder, or the adoption of a planned unit development. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.061.05 Antenna
Any system of electromagnetically tuned wires, poles, rods, reflecting discs or similar devices used to transmit or receive electromagnetic waves between terrestrial and/or orbital based points. Types of antenna(e) include:
A. Omni-directional (or “whip”) antenna(e) which transmit and receive radio frequency signals in a three hundred sixty (360) degree radial pattern. For the purpose of this document, an omni-directional antenna(e) is up to twenty-four (24) feet in height and up to six (6) inches in average diameter.
B. Directional (or “panel”) antenna(e) which transmit and receive radio frequency signals in a specific directional pattern of less than three hundred sixty (360) degrees.
C. Tubular antenna(e), which consist of two (2) or more directional antennae arranged to transmit and receive radio frequency signals in a three hundred sixty (360) degree pattern, and which are enclosed within a cylindrical tube.
D. Parabolic (or “dish”) antenna(e) is a bowl-shaped device for the reception and/or transmission of communications signals in a specific directional pattern. (Ord. 98-1036 § 1; Ord. 97-1013 § 2)
15.10.062 Antiques, Antique Shop
Any article which, because of age, rarity or historical significance, has a monetary value greater than the original value, or which has an age recognized by the United States Government as entitling the article to an import duty less than that prescribed for contemporary merchandise. A store or shop selling only such articles or offering them for sale shall be considered as an antique shop or store, and not considered as a dealership handling used or secondhand merchandise. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.063 Area Zoning
The procedures initiated by the City which result in the adoption or amendment of the zoning map on an area-wide basis. This type of zoning is characterized by being comprehensive in nature, dealing with natural homogeneous communities, distinctive geographic neighborhoods and other types of districts having unified interests within the city. Area zoning, unlike a reclassification (rezone), usually involves many separate properties under various ownerships and utilizes several of the zoning classifications available to express the City’s current land use policy in zoning map form. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.065 Auction House
An establishment where the property of others is sold by a broker or auctioneer to persons who attend scheduled sales periods or events. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.072 Automobile Towing/Storage Operation
Any person, corporation or enterprise engaged in the moving of inoperable motor vehicles and storing (long term or short term) in an enclosed area. All such operations shall be in compliance with minimum state standards prior to commencing. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.073 Automobile Wrecking Operation
Any person, corporation or enterprise engaged in the dismantling or wrecking of motor vehicles or trailers, or in the storage, sale or dumping of dismantled or wrecked vehicles or their parts. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.074 Automotive Service Center
Establishment primarily engaged in automotive repair and detailing, including the sale and installation of lubricants, tires, batteries, mufflers and similar accessories. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.075 Average Building Elevation
The vertical distance from established ground elevation (finished foundation) measured to the highest point of the coping of a flat roof or to the deck line of a mansard roof or the average height of the highest gable of a pitched or hipped roof (See Figure 15.10.075a). For sloped property the average of the lowest and highest ground elevation shall be considered the point of measurement. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
Figure 15.10.075a
HEIGHT CALCULATION FOR
SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLING ON LEVEL GROUND
15.10.076 Base Flood
A flood having a one percent (1%) chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year, often referred to as the “100-year flood.” (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.077 Base Flood Elevation
The water surface elevation of the base flood in relation to the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.078 Base Area
The total area of the horizontal cross-section of a tree as measured at four (4) feet above grade. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.078.05 Batch Plant
The manufacturing of asphalt or concrete which may include the storage of related component materials. Cement batch plants are prohibited. (Ord. 99-1003 § 4)
15.10.079 Beauty Salon
A service business operating to provide services related to hair, skin, nail and cosmetology care. (Ord. 94-1006 § 1)
15.10.080 Bed and Breakfast/Guesthouse
A dwelling unit within which bedrooms are available for paying guests. The number of guests is limited to no more than six (6) at any time. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.081 Berm
A formed mound of earth that creates a visual and physical barrier between developments, roads, and/or sensitive areas. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.083 Biomedical Product Facility
An entity, business, or establishment that is involved in the design, development, assembly and/or manufacture of products developed specifically for the diagnosis, treatment or correction of medical disorders. Products produced by a biomedical product facility include pharmaceuticals, implants or prostheses. (Ord. 95-1016 § 31)
15.10.085 Book, Stationery, Video, Audio and Art Supply Store
Establishment engaged in retail sales of new books and magazines, stationery, video and art supplies. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.090 Buffer
Any structural, earth or vegetative form that is for the purpose of minimizing visual and noise impacts. Buffers may include, but are not limited to, berms, high shrubs, dense stands of trees, trellises and fences. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.092 Building
A structure that is designed to provide a place of business, residence or shelter to occupants. For the purposes of setback standards, it does not include minor utility structures, light poles, utility boxes, benches, signs, bus shelter, security gatehouses, ticket booths or other similar structures. (Ord. 95-1016 § 32)
15.10.095 Building, Hardware and Garden Materials Store
Establishment engaged in the selling of lumber and other building materials, feed, lawn and garden supplies. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.097 Butterfly/Moth Breeding, Wholesale/Retail
The breeding of butterflies and moths for the purpose of wholesale or retail sales. This includes the entire life cycle of butterflies and moths and accessory activities such as the manufacture of enclosed biospheres for the butterflies and moths. This definition shall only include those butterflies and moths indigenous to the Pacific Northwest, which do not have a negative impact on forest and agricultural products or on ornamental trees, shrubs and vegetation, as determined by the City and applicable Washington State agencies. The breeding of butterflies and moths not indigenous to the Pacific Northwest shall be prohibited unless otherwise approved by the City and the applicable Washington State agencies. (Ord. 00-1033 § 16)
15.10.098 Cargo Containers
A standardized, reusable vessel, designed without an axle or wheels, which was:
A. Originally, specifically, or formerly designed for or used in the packing, shipping, movement or transportation of freight, articles, goods or commodities; and/or
B. Designed for or capable of being mounted or moved on a rail car; and/or
C. Designed for or capable of being mounted on a chassis or bogie for movement by truck trailer or loaded on a ship.
When used for any purpose other than those listed in subsection A of this section, a cargo container is a structure (SMC 15.10.631). (Ord. 01-1010 § 1)
15.10.100 Cemetery
Land used or intended to be used for the burial of the human dead. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.105 Church
An establishment, the principal purpose of which is religious worship and/or memorial services. The principal building or other structure containing the sanctuary of the principal place of worship and includes related accessory uses. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.106 Church, Accessory Uses
Uses which are secondary to the religious purpose of the church and are considered as providing services to members and other individuals. The uses include, but are not limited to, bookstores, cafeteria, child day care, educational classes, social services, and limited retail sales of only church related materials, and operation of overnight shelters as limited by SMC 15.12.030. (Ord. 99-1005 § 1; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.107 City Center
A portion of the City of SeaTac Urban Center delineated as the City Center area on the City Center vehicular and pedestrian access plan (SMC 15.35.210). Within the City Center area, design standards shall apply to all properties, except those zoned urban low (UL), aviation operations (AVO), and aviation commercial (AVC). (Ord. 98-1019 § 1)
15.10.107.05 City Hall*
A structure maintained and used as a place to transact business, legislative and administrative functions, public meetings and hearings, and other operations of a Code City as defined under RCW 35A.01.035. City Hall may include a municipal court for the purpose of providing for the administration of justice, including court offices, court rooms and facilities for processing civil and/or criminal cases and related functions. (Ord. 98-1025 § 5)
*Code reviser’s note: Ord. No. 98-1025 adds this definition as SMC 15.10.107. It has been editorially renumbered to prevent duplication.
15.10.108 Classification
A refined identification of uses which, either individually or as a type, possess similar characteristics or performance standards and are permitted as possessing compatible uses in a zone. A classification as the term employed in this title includes provisions, conditions and requirements related to the permissible location of permitted uses. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.109 Colleges – Universities
Institutions of higher learning authorized to confer associate degrees, baccalaureate degrees and/or post graduate degrees, accredited by the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges. (Ord. 94-1006 § 2; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.109.05 Collocation
The use of a single support structure or existing structure for more than one wireless telecommunications facility. (Ord. 97-1013 § 3)
15.10.109.08 Commercial/Industrial Accessory Uses*
A commercial/industrial accessory use shall be a use similar in type to the permitted or allowed conditional uses on the property and directly related to the permitted or allowed conditional use. In no case shall a commercial/industrial accessory use, which is neither a permitted or conditional use of the underlying zone, occupy an area that is more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the gross floor area of all buildings on the subject property. (Ord. 01-1027 § 3)
*Code reviser’s note: Ord. No. 01-1027 adds this definition as SMC 15.10.102. It has been editorially renumbered to preserve alphabetization.
15.10.110 Commercial Recreation Area and Use
An area and use operated for profit, with private facilities, equipment or services for recreational purposes including swimming pools, tennis courts, playgrounds and other similar uses. The use of such an area may be limited to private membership or may be open to the public upon payment of a fee. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.112 Commercial Marine Supplies
A business that provides for retail/wholesale purchase of supplies related to commercial marine activities, not to include the retail sales of boats. (Ord. 95-1016 § 33)
15.10.114 Commercial Wireless Telecommunications Facility (Commercial WTF)
A wireless telecommunications facility used to provide service(s) that is available to the general public. (Ord. 97-1013 § 4)
15.10.115 Common Recreational Open Space Usable for Many Activities
Any area available to all residents of the subject property that is appropriate for a variety of active and passive recreational activities, if that area:
A. Is not covered by residential buildings, parking or driving areas; and
B. Is not covered by any vegetation that impedes access; and
C. Has an average four percent (4%) slope of all areas, with no slope that exceeds six percent (6%). (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.120 Communication Facility, Major
A communication facility for transmission and reception of UHF and VHF television signals, FM and AM radio signals, and signals through FM translators or boosters not related to wireless telecommunications facilities. (Ord. 97-1013 § 5; Ord. 95-1016 § 1; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.125 Communication Facility, Minor
A communication facility for the transmission and reception of ham radio signals. (Ord. 95-1016 § 2; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.126 Community Center
A facility used for and providing recreational and/or social programs, but not including overnight shelters as defined in SMC 15.10.440. (Ord. 99-1005 § 8)
15.10.130 Community Residential Facility (CRF)
Publicly or privately operated residential facilities, limited to: group homes for children, for those with disabilities, or for the elderly; homes for recovering, non-using alcoholics and addicts; or shelters for domestic violence victims. Community residential facilities do not include halfway houses, overnight shelters, or transitional housing. (Ord. 01-1011 § 1; Ord. 99-1005 § 2; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.135 Compensatory Storage
New excavated storage volume equivalent to any flood storage which is eliminated by filling or grading within the floodplain. For the purpose of this definition, equivalent flood storage capacity is that which is replaced by an equal volume as measured between corresponding one (1) foot contour intervals which are hydraulically connected to the floodway. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.136 Comprehensive Plan
The officially adopted SeaTac Comprehensive Plan, including all the components thereof adopted by reference or lawfully incorporated parts thereof. It includes, but is not limited to, components required by state law, state growth management and subdivision law as referenced in the RCW. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.140 Conditional Use, Major
A use which is not permitted outright in a zone classification due to the nature of impacts created by the use, after review and approval by the Hearing Examiner under specific conditions based upon decision criteria of SMC 15.22.030. (Ord. 97-1011 § 3; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.142 Conditional Use, Minor
The expansion of an existing and authorized major conditional use within a zone classification, after review and approval by the City Manager or designee. Minor conditional uses are those which are compatible with the pre-existing major conditional use and satisfy the requirements of SMC 16.03.050. (Ord. 97-1011 § 4)
15.10.145 Conference Center
An establishment developed primarily as a meeting facility; including access facilities for recreation, overnight lodging, and related activities provided for conference participants. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.150 Conforming Building Use
An activity or use which is permitted in the zone classification in which the property on which it is established is located. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.155 Convalescent Center/Nursing Home
Residential facilities offering twenty-four (24) hour skilled nursing care for patients who are recovering from an illness, or receiving care for chronic conditions, mental or physical disabilities, terminal illness, or alcohol or drug detoxification. Care may include in-patient administration of medicine, preparation of special diets, bedside nursing care, and treatment by a physician or psychiatrist. Out-patient care is limited to prior patients only. (Ord. 99-1005 § 3; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.156 Court
A facility used by any public 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, and agency of the state of Washington or of the United States or any state thereof which has responsibility for, and jurisdiction to process and provide for the handling of administration of justice, including court offices, court rooms and facilities for processing civil and/or criminal cases and related functions, for the purposes of such administration of justice functions; provided, that where such activities occur at a regular office of the public agency responsible for such functions, the provisions applicable to public agency office, as that term is defined in this code, shall control. (Ord. 93-1036 § 7)
15.10.160 Critical Drainage Area
An area which has been formally defined in the City Surface Water Management Program to require more restrictive regulation than is standard in noncritical areas of the City in order to mitigate severe flooding, water quality issues, erosion or sedimentation problems which result from the cumulative impacts of development and urbanization. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.161 Cross-Section
A visual representation of a vertical cut through a structure, a proposed fill pad or any other three (3) dimensional form. (See Figure 15.10.161a.) (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
Figure 15.10.161a. EXAMPLE OF A CROSS-SECTION
15.10.165 Dairy
Any premises where three (3) or more cows, three (3) or more goats, or any combination thereof are kept, milked or maintained. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.166 Day Care
(Excludes afterschool programs sanctioned by the City.) Establishments for group care of children; provided such establishments are licensed by the state and conducted in accordance with state requirements, including:
• Nursery schools for children under minimum age for education in public schools;
• Privately conducted kindergartens when not a part of a public or parochial school;
A. Day Care I. Twelve (12) children maximum in any twenty-four (24) hour period;
B. Day Care II. Over twelve (12) children in any twenty-four (24) hour period.
It is provided, however, that for the purposes of this title the City’s regulatory role for family day cares, defined as those day care facilities providing in-home care for twelve (12) or fewer children and which are licensed by the state of Washington, is limited to the following:
Family day care facilities shall:
1. Comply with all building, fire, safety, health code and business licensing requirements;
2. Conform to lot size, building size, setbacks and lot coverage standards applicable to the zoning district except if the structure is a legal nonconforming structure;
3. Be certified by the State Department of Licensing as providing a safe passenger loading area;
4. Include signage, if any, that conforms to applicable City regulations;
5. Limit hours of operation to facilitate to neighborhood compatibility while at the same time providing an appropriate opportunity for persons who use family day care and who work a nonstandard work shift; and
6. Provide, prior to state licensing, written proof of notification to adjoining property owners, informing them of the intent to locate and maintain such a facility; provided, that if a dispute arises between the neighbors and the family day care provider over licensing requirements, the state may provide a forum to resolve the dispute. (Ord. 94-1030 § 1; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.170 Dedication
The deliberate appropriation of land by an owner for public use or purposes, reserving no other rights than those that are compatible with the full exercise and enjoyment of the public uses or purpose to which the property has been devoted. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.172 Density Bonus
A commercial or residential bonus in density units granted to developers for providing public benefits in their development plans. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.175 Department and Variety Store
Establishment engaged in the retail sales of a variety of lines of merchandise such as: dry goods, apparel and accessories, home furnishings, housewares, travel accessories, and electronic items and accessories. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.176 Disability
As used in SMC 15.12.017 and 15.12.018, a “handicap” as defined in the Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 at 42 U.S.C. Section 3602(h):
with respect to a person--
1. a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more of such a person’s major life activities,
2. a record of having such an impairment, or
3. being regarded as having such an impairment, but such term does not include current, illegal use of or addiction to a controlled substance (as defined in [21 U.S.C. § 802]).
Persons with disabilities include those who are developmentally disabled, mentally ill, as well as those in recovery for alcohol and drug addiction. (Ord. 99-1005 § 9)
15.10.180 Domestic Animals
Dogs, cats, birds, snakes, and small rodents (limited to a total of not more than three (3) outside animals), which can be and are continually kept or raised in a home. Animals not considered to be domestic animals include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: horses, cows, goats, sheep, swine, donkeys, fowl and any endangered or exotic species of animals. (Ord. 93-1014 § 5; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.185 Dormitory
An accessory residential building to an educational institution consisting of individual rooms for sleeping and may include common dining, cooking, and interior recreation facilities. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.190 Drug Store
Establishment engaged in the retail sale of prescription drugs, nonprescription medicines, cosmetics and related supplies, including tobacco stores. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.195 Dwelling Unit
Any building or portion thereof which contains living facilities, including provisions for sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation for not more than one (1) family. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.200 Dwelling Unit, Apartment
A building or part of a building, containing three (3) or more dwelling units. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.205 Dwelling Unit, Efficiency
A dwelling unit containing only one (1) habitable room and not having a kitchen. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.210 Dwelling Unit, Manufactured Home
A detached building containing one (1) dwelling unit for a family permanently affixed on a foundation, constructed within HUD standards, as defined at 24 CFR Part 3280. (Ord. 97-1008 § 1; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.215 Dwelling Unit, Mobile Home
A detached building containing one (1) dwelling unit for a family, but not constructed within HUD standards, with running gear, attached or detachable, that allows it to be relocated. (Ord. 97-1008 § 2; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.217 Dwelling Unit, Modular Home
A detached building containing one (1) dwelling unit for a family located on a permanent foundation, constructed within UBC standards, but constructed off-site and assembled on-site. This term is identical to “factory-built home”. (Ord. 97-1008 § 3)
15.10.220 Dwelling Unit, Senior Citizen Assisted
A building or part of a building containing two (2) or more dwelling units restricted to occupancy by senior citizens, and may include support services not limited to:
A. Food preparation;
B. Transportation; and
C. Medical supervision. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.225 Dwelling Unit, Single Detached
A detached building containing one (1) dwelling unit for a family. Such a building may be constructed on-site, or may be a manufactured home or modular home. (Ord. 97-1008 § 4; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.230 Dwelling Unit, Townhouse/Duplex
A building containing a single dwelling unit that occupies space from the ground to the roof and attached to one (1) or more other townhouse dwellings by common walls which may be located on side lot lines. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.235 Easement
Land which has specific air, surface or subsurface rights conveyed for use by someone other than the owner of the subject property or to benefit some property other than the subject property. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.237 Efficiency Unit
A living quarters consisting of one (1) habitable room as defined in the Uniform Building Code. (Ord. 93-1014 § 10)
15.10.240 Employees
All persons, including proprietors, performing work on-premises, or on all shifts, unless otherwise stated in specific sections of this code. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.241 Enhancement
An action which increases the functions and values of a stream, wetland or other sensitive area or buffer. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.243 Equipment Shelter
Any structure used to contain ancillary equipment for a wireless telecommunications facility. Equipment shelters include but are not limited to shelters, cabinets, expansion of an existing structure, pedestals and other similar structures. (Ord. 97-1013 § 6)
15.10.245 Erosion and Deposition
The removal of soils and the placement of these removed soils elsewhere by the natural forces of wind and/or water runoff. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.247 Espresso Stand
A walk-up or auto-oriented (drive-through) business that dispenses hot and/or cold beverage. (Ord. 95-1016 § 34)
15.10.249 Essential Public Facility
A facility providing public services, or publicly funded services that is difficult to site or expand and which meets any of the following criteria: meets the Growth Management Act definition of an essential public facility (EPF), at RCW 36.70A.200, as now existing or hereafter amended, is on the State, King County or City list of essential public facilities, serves a significant portion of the County or region, or is part of a County-wide or multi-County service system, and is difficult to site or expand. Essential public facilities include, but are not limited to, the following: airports, State and local correction facilities, State educational facilities, State and regional transportation facilities, landfills, solid waste handling facilities, sewage treatment facilities, major communication facilities and antennas (excluding wireless telecommunications facilities); and in-patient facilities such as group homes (excluding those facilities covered by the Washington Housing Policy Act), mental health facilities, secure community transition facilities (SCTF), and substance abuse facilities. (Ord. 02-1029 § 1: Ord. 98-1037 § 1)
15.10.250 Excavate(tion)
The mechanical removal of soils and/or underlying strata. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.253 Existing Structure
An existing structure to which wireless telecommunications antenna(e) may be attached. For the purpose of siting wireless telecommunications facilities, existing structures shall include only the following: buildings, water towers, utility poles, and legally conforming signs; provided, that no part of a WTF is visible on the sign. (Ord. 97-1013 § 7)
15.10.255 Family
An individual or two (2) or more persons related by blood, marriage, or adoption, or a group of not more than five (5) persons (excluding servants) who need not be related by blood or marriage living together in a dwelling unit. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.261 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Floodway
The channel of the stream and that portion of the adjoining floodplain which is necessary to contain and discharge the base flood flow without increasing the base flood elevation more than one (1) foot. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.264 Fire Facility
A facility used by any public 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, and agency of the State of Washington or of the United States or any state thereof which has responsibility for fire suppression, fire prevention, other functions of fire departments, for the purposes of such fire department functions; provided, that where such activities occur at a regular office of the public agency responsible for such functions, the provisions applicable to public agency office, as that term is defined in this code, shall control. (Ord. 93-1036 § 9)
15.10.265 Fill Material
Dirt, structural rock or gravel and similar structural substances, not including any inert waste as defined by Department of Ecology, customarily used to raise the level of the ground. Excludes topsoil, bark, ornamental rocks or gravel placed on the surface of the ground. Individual fill material shall not exceed twelve (12) inches in diameter, width, depth, or height. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.266 Flood Fringe
That portion of the floodplain outside of the zero-rise floodway (See Floodway, Zero-Rise) which is covered by floodwater during the base flood, generally associated with standing water rather than rapidly flowing water. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.267 Flood Hazard Areas
Those areas in the City subject to inundation by the base flood including, but not limited to, streams, lakes, wetlands and closed depressions. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.268 Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)
The official map on which the Federal Insurance Administration has delineated some of the major areas of flood hazard. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.269 Flood Insurance Study for King County
The official report provided by the Federal Insurance Administration which includes flood profiles and the flood insurance rate map. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.270 Floodplain
The total area subject to inundation by the base flood. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.271 Floodproofing
Adaptations, pursuant to the UBC, which will make a structure that is below the flood protection elevation substantially impermeable to the passing of water and resistant to hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads including the impacts of buoyancy. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.272 Flood Protection Elevation
An elevation which is one (1) foot above the base flood elevation. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.273 Floodway, Zero-Rise
The channel of a stream and that portion of the adjoining floodplain which is necessary to contain and discharge the base flood flow without any measurable increase in flood height. A measurable increase in base flood height means a calculated upward rise in the base flood elevation, equal to or greater than .01 foot, resulting from a comparison of existing conditions and changed conditions directly attributable to development in the floodplain. This definition is broader than that of the FEMA floodway, but always includes the FEMA floodway. The boundaries of the one hundred (100) year floodplains, as shown on the FIRM maps for King County, are considered the boundaries of the zero-rise floodway unless otherwise delineated by a sensitive area special study. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.274 Floor Area
The total floor area within the walls of all buildings on a lot or building site, except for the spaces therein devoted to vents, shafts, and lighting courts, and except for the area devoted exclusively to loading and unloading facilities or parking of motor vehicles. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.275 Food Processing
An industrial production of food from a natural state to a packaged state through approved FDA processes and standards. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.276 Forest Product Sales
The sales of goods produced, extracted, consumed, gathered or harvested from a forest including, but not limited to:
A. Trees;
B. Logs;
C. Cones;
D. Wood chips;
E. Fuel wood;
F. Herbs. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.280 Forest Product Sales, Temporary
The sales of goods produced and extracted from a forest including, but not limited to:
A. Christmas trees;
B. Pine boughs;
C. Mushrooms/berries. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.285 General Business Service/Office
Establishment engaged in providing personal services to business establishments and citizens from an office setting, with no visible outdoor storage areas, including, but not limited to, the following uses:
A. Financial institutions;
B. Security and commodity brokers, dealers, exchanges and services;
C. Insurance agents and carriers;
D. Real estate business offices and agents;
E. Legal services;
F. Membership organizations;
G. Nontesting research labs;
H. Emergency services administration and substations. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.286 General Repair
The repair of appliances, stereo equipment, electronic pieces and computers. This term does not include the repair of motor vehicles in any form. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.290 Glare
The reflection of harsh, bright light, or the physical effect resulting from high luminance or insufficiently shielded light sources in the field of view. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.291 Governmental Facility
Repealed by Ord. 93-1036. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.295 Grading
Any excavation, filling, removing the duff layer or any combination of topsoils thereof. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.296 Group Home
See definition of Community Residential Facility, SMC 15.10.130. (Ord. 99-1005 § 10)
15.10.297 Habitable Space
Space in a structure for living, sleeping, eating or cooking. Bathrooms, toilet compartments, closets, halls, storage or utility space, and similar areas alone, are not considered habitable space. (Ord. 95-1016 § 35)
15.10.298 Halfway House
State-licensed work/release facilities and other housing facilities serving as an alternative to incarceration. (Ord. 99-1005 § 11)
15.10.300 Hangar/Service Bay
A building used for service and maintenance of private and public aircraft. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.305 Hazardous Production Material (HPM)
A solid, liquid or gas that has a degree of hazard rating in health, flammability or reactivity of 3 or 4 as ranked by UFC Standard No. 79-3 and which is used directly in research, laboratory or production processes which have, as their end product, materials which are not hazardous. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.310 Hazardous Waste
All dangerous and extremely hazardous waste, including substances composed of radioactive and hazardous components (as defined in RCW 70.105.010(15)). (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.315 Hazardous Waste Storage
Repealed by Ord. 94-1039. (Ord. 93-1036 § 18; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.320 Hazardous Waste Treatment
Repealed by Ord. 94-1039. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.324 Health Club
Facilities offering the use of exercise equipment for public use, and services such as, but not limited to, expertise and instruction for fitness training and aerobics classes. Does not include massage or other medically related services. (Ord. 95-1016 § 36)
15.10.325 Health Hazard
Sanitation problems, including, but not limited to, sewage spills, raw sewage in any form, rodent infestation, potential disease causes as determined by an environmental health official, and chemicals that lead to acute or chronic health effects in exposed persons. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.327 Height
For the purposes of measuring the height of any WTF, any antenna(e) mounted on a support structure shall be considered part of the support structure and shall be included in measurements to determine overall (i.e., combined) height. For antenna(e) mounted on an existing structure(s), the height of the antenna(e) 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. (Ord. 97-1013 § 8)
15.10.330 Heliport
An area of land or water or a structural surface which is used, or intended for use, for the landing and take-off of helicopters, and any direct maintenance or fueling areas. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.335 Helistop
Same as a heliport, except that no refueling, maintenance, repairs or storage of helicopters is permitted. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.336 High Capacity Transit (HCT)
Any form of public or private transit (bus, rail, train, Personal Rapid Transit (PRT), People Mover and other new technology) that moves a large number of people to set destination points. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.340 Home Occupation
A limited-scale service or fabrication activity, which occurs in a dwelling unit or accessory building and is subordinate to the primary use of the premises for residential purposes, with limitations as set forth in Chapter 15.17 SMC. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.345 Hospital
An institution providing primary health services and medical or surgical care to persons, primarily inpatients, suffering from illness, disease, injury, deformity and other abnormal physical or mental conditions, and including, as an integral part of the institution, related facilities such as laboratories, outpatient facilities, extended care facilities or training facilities. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.350 Hotel/Motel and Associated Uses
A facility consisting of four (4) or more guest rooms offering transient lodging accommodations, including inns, residence or extended stay hotels, other similar facilities, and all businesses subject to collection and payment of the tax levied by Chapter 67.28 RCW or City Code, that offer rental accommodations for periods of generally less than 30 days at a time. Associated uses may include additional services such as meeting rooms, restaurants, health spas, retail shops and beauty shops. (Ord. 00-1033 § 1; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.351 Impervious Surface
Any nonvertical surface artificially covered or hardened so as to prevent or impede the percolation of water into the soil mantle including, but not limited to, roof tops, swimming pools, paved or graveled roads and walkways or parking areas, but excluding landscaping and surface water retention/detention facilities. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.352 Improved Public Roadways
Public road rights-of-way that have been improved to an all-weather surface with at least two (2) travel lanes and are maintained by the City or the state of Washington. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.355 Junk
Old or scrap copper, brass, rope, rags, batteries, paper, trash, rubber debris, wastes, machinery, scrap wood, or junked, dismantled or wrecked automobiles, or parts thereof; iron, steel, and other old or scrap ferrous or nonferrous material. Includes any other definitions of junk established in City ordinances. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.360 Kennel
A commercial establishment which houses, cares for, breeds, raises or sells dogs or cats. Four (4) or more adult dogs or cats or any combination thereof constitute a kennel. Small animal hospitals and clinics and up to two (2) dwelling units, to be used as manager/caretaker residences, either attached or detached, from the kennel are included. An adult dog or cat is one of either sex, altered or unaltered, that has reached the age of four (4) months. (Ord. 97-1009 § 1; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.361 Landscaping Business
A business which provides services to preserve or enhance natural or reconfigured land features, ground cover, grass, sod, and other plantings, to promote naturalistic and aesthetic values, or to effect natural or improved drainage and erosion control. The business may include the arrangement of such tangible objects such as pools, walls, steps, trellises, canopies, and other nonhabitable structures, and other such features as are incidental and necessary to landscaping purposes. A landscaping business does not include the wholesale/retail sale of landscaping products including, but not limited to, trees, shrubs, plants, or any other vegetation (except those planted or installed by the business), or of any equipment that is necessary for the movement, planting, growth, and aesthetics of landscape materials. (Ord. 00-1033 § 17)
15.10.362 Laundromat
A commercial establishment offering self-serve and assisted laundry facilities for public use. (Ord. 95-1016 § 37)
15.10.363 Legal Lot
A lot created by the King County Assessor’s Office in accordance with Washington State Laws and Subdivision Code provisions set forth in the Washington State RCW and City of SeaTac Subdivision Code. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.364 Livestock
Domesticated animals, such as horses, cows, goats, sheep, swine and fowl. (Ord. 95-1016 § 38)
15.10.365 Lot
A legal lot for building purposes which shall have sufficient size to meet minimum zoning requirements for use, coverage, and area, and to provide such yards and other open spaces as are herein required. Such lot shall have access to an improved public street, or to an approved private access. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.370 Lot Area
The total horizontal area within the boundary lines of a lot, including access easements; however, the area contained in tracts or panhandles shall not be included in the lot area of a lot within any plat containing more than two (2) lots. In addition, the area of any easements over one (1) or more servient lots in favor of a dominant lot for the purpose of granting the owner of the dominant lot rights of personal use, possession and occupancy which are typically attributes of ownership shall not be included in the lot area of any servient lot. (Ord. 98-1038 § 1; Ord. 95-1016 § 3; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.375 Lot Coverage
That percentage of the lot area covered by all buildings including accessory buildings and uses, excluding driveway and outside parking areas. Coverage is determined by measuring from a horizontal plane from the building footprint as set forth in the UBC. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.380 Lot Lines
The property lines that establish the boundaries of buildable lots.
A. Front.
1. Interior Lot. The boundary that abuts the street right-of-way.
2. Corner Lot. Those boundaries that abut a public right-of-way.
3. Through Lot. The boundary that abuts the public right-of-way with the highest street or arterial classification according to the City of SeaTac Comprehensive Plan. If the two (2) streets have the same classification, then the property owner shall choose which is the front lot line, except within the City Center, in which SMC 15.35.320 shall apply.
4. Other Lots. For properties not abutting any public rights-of-way, the front lot line shall be determined pursuant to SMC 15.13.035.
B. Rear. The line opposite, most distant and most parallel with the front lot line. For irregularly shaped lots, a line ten (10) feet in length within the lot and farthest removed from the front line and at right angles to the line comprising the depth of the lot shall be used as the rear lot line.
C. Side. All lot lines which do not qualify as a rear or front lot line. (Ord. 98-1019 § 2; Ord. 95-1028 § 1; Ord. 95-1016 § 4; Ord. 95-1012 § 1; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.385 Lot, Substandard
A lot or parcel of land which has less than the required minimum area or width as established by the zone in which it is located; and provided, that such lot or parcel was of record as a legally created lot on the effective date of the Zoning Code ordinance codified by the City. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.390 Lot Types
(See Figure 15.10.390a.)
A. Corner. A lot situated at the intersection of two (2) or more streets.
B. Interior Lot. A lot that is neither a corner or through lot.
C. Through Lot. A lot other than a corner lot, which abuts two (2) streets.
D. Panhandle Lot. A lot that does not front on a street and has access through a narrow strip of land or an easement. The handle or access of a panhandle lot is defined as “that portion of a panhandle lot that is thirty (30) feet or less in width and fifteen (15) feet in length or greater.” (Ord. 94-1006 § 3; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
Figure 15.10.390a. LOT TYPES
15.10.395 Lot Width
The distance between the two (2) established side lot lines of the lot; for irregularly shaped lots, the width shall be determined by a lot width circle which is of a diameter that fits within the individual lot (see Figure 15.10.395a). The circle shall not have an average slope exceeding twenty-five percent (25%) nor contain unbuildable, sensitive areas. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
Figure 15.10.395a. LOT WIDTH DETERMINATION
15.10.396 Major Redevelopment
Additions or alterations to a building or site, excluding interior-only improvements, which total fifty percent (50%) or more of the gross square footage (GSF) of the existing building(s) or site. (Ord. 98-1019 § 3; Ord. 95-1028 § 11)
15.10.397 Massage Business
A commercial establishment in which massage or other touching (considered medically necessary) of the human body is provided for a fee. Any physical activities beyond the stated purpose of the use shall be dealt with in the same manner as any activities considered illegal by the applicable legal codes. (Ord. 95-1028 § 2; Ord. 92-1041 § 1. Formerly 15.10.396)
15.10.398 Maximum Yard Setback
The maximum distance from a front property line that the edge of a building may be placed. Within the City Center, at least fifty percent (50%) of the building’s front facade shall be located within the maximum front yard setback. The remaining portions of the front facade may be stepped back a maximum of twenty (20) feet more than the established maximum setback, as approved by the Director of Planning and Community Development, for the purpose of accommodating public open space, porte cocheres, or recessed building entries. (Ord. 98-1019 § 4; Ord. 95-1016 § 39)
15.10.400 Medical/Dental Clinic
An establishment for treatment of outpatients, and providing no overnight care for patients. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.402 Microcell
A wireless telecommunications facility consisting of either: (a) a directional antenna that is four (4) feet in height, with an area of not more than five hundred eighty (580) square inches; or (b) an omni-directional antenna no more than four (4) inches in diameter and no more than six (6) feet in length. (Ord. 97-1013 § 9)
15.10.405 Microwave
Electromagnetic waves with a frequency of eight hundred ninety (890) megahertz (mhz) or greater. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.406 Mitigation
The use of any or all of the following actions, listed in descending order of preference:
A. Avoiding the impact by not taking a certain action;
B. Minimizing the impact by limiting the degree or magnitude of the action by using appropriate technology or by taking affirmative steps to avoid or reduce the impact;
C. Rectifying the impact by repairing, rehabilitating or restoring the affected sensitive area or buffer;
D. Reducing or eliminating the impact over time by preservation or maintenance operations during the life of the development proposal;
E. Compensating for the impact by replacing, enhancing or providing substitute sensitive areas and environments; and
F. Monitoring the impact and taking appropriate corrective measures. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.407 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. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.408 Monopole
A freestanding structure designed to support a wireless telecommunications antenna(e) or antenna platform(s), and consisting of a single vertical pole driven into the ground and/or attached to a foundation. (Ord. 97-1013 § 10)
15.10.410 Multi-family Residential Dwelling Unit
Higher density residential use of property, consisting of apartment buildings, townhouse complexes, or any other combination of residential units consisting of three (3) or more dwelling units per structure. (Ord. 94-1006 § 4)
15.10.415 Multi-Use Complex
A group of separate buildings operating under a common name or management; or a single building containing multiple uses where there are specific exterior entrances for individual uses. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.416 Native Vegetation
Vegetation comprised of plant species, other than noxious weeds, which are indigenous to King County and which reasonably could have been expected to naturally occur on the site. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.420 Noise
The intensity, duration and character of sound from any and all sources. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.425 Nonconformance, Legal
Any legally established use, structure, or development standard which was lawfully allowed in the past, but is now not in conformance with the current code. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.430 Nonconforming Use
Any use, structure, lot, condition, or development that does not conform to any of the provisions of the current code or that was not approved by the City through the appropriate decision-making process required under this code. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.431 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. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.433 Nursing Home
See definition of Convalescent Center/Nursing Home, SMC 15.10.155. (Ord. 99-1005 § 12)
15.10.435 Open Space
A variety of lands which are created and preserved for park and open space purposes, including:
A. Natural areas with outstanding scenic or recreational (active or passive) value;
B. Public access areas to creeks, rivers, lakes or Puget Sound;
C. Lands that define, through natural features, urban and rural areas;
D. Lands that create corridors between natural features;
E. Areas defined as sensitive areas under the Sensitive Areas Ordinance;
F. Any landscaped area that exceeds the minimum adopted landscape requirements;
G. Active outdoor recreation areas;
H. Multi-purpose green spaces;
I. Pedestrian and bicycle-only corridors separate from the public or private roadway system and dedicated to passive recreation, including access links in sensitive area buffers. The square footage (length times width) of pedestrian and bicycle-only corridor shall be counted as usable open space; and/or
J. Publicly accessible plazas, courtyards, and pocket parks located either within the front yard setback or elsewhere on site. (Ord. 98-1019 § 5; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.436 Ordinary High Water Mark
The mark found by examining the bed and banks of a stream and ascertaining where the presence and action of waters are 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 or lake 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. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.438 Other Retail Uses
A retail use that is substantially similar to other listed permitted retail uses within a zone and has similar impacts relating to but not limited to: traffic, storm drainage, the generation of light and glare, emissions or pollutants, odors, or electromagnetic radiation. (Ord. 93-1036 § 10)
15.10.440 Overnight Shelter
A facility providing overnight, temporary lodging, with or without meals, for homeless families or individuals and meeting the standards of Chapter 246-360 WAC. (Ord. 99-1005 § 13)
15.10.445 Parking Lot
A public or private area other than a street or alley that provides parking for motor vehicles for the primary use on the property including, but not limited to, multi-family, office, retail, or commercial uses (including auto rental/sales). A parking lot is limited in use to the occupants, guests, or employees of the primary use of the property. A parking lot does not include an area used exclusively for the parking of motor vehicles for commercial purposes such as a park and fly lot. (Ord. 01-1017 § 1; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.446 Parking Lot, Public/Private
An area used exclusively for the parking of motor vehicles for a fee for any period of time. (Ord. 01-1017 § 2; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.448 Parking Space
An area accessible to vehicles, which area is provided, improved, maintained and used for the sole purpose of accommodating a motor vehicle. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.450 Parties of Record
Persons which have submitted written comments, testified, asked to be notified, listed on a maintained mailing list, or are the first signatory of a petition which is included as part of the official City record. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.455 Passenger Terminal
A building for on- and off-loading passengers on private and public aircraft or other passenger modes of travel including, but not limited to, HCT, buses, PRTs, public rail systems and ferries. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.465 Pedestrian Access
An area designed to allow access for pedestrians, including handicap access, from the public right-of-way to private land. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.470 Perimeter Landscaping
Landscaping provided along the street and exterior boundaries of a site. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.470.05 Platform
A mounting structure to which one or more antennae, sufficient to serve the needs of a single wireless telecommunications carrier’s installation, are attached, and which is affixed to a support structure. (Ord. 97-1013 § 11)
15.10.471 Police Facility
A facility used by any public 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, and agency of the state of Washington or of the United States or any state thereof which has responsibility for law enforcement, and for regular police functions, for the purposes of such law enforcement and regular police functions; provided, that where such activities occur at a regular office of the public agency responsible for such functions, the provisions applicable to public agency office, as that term is defined in this code, shall control. (Ord. 93-1036 § 8)
15.10.485 Primary Vehicle Access
The major (or highest classification) street from which the majority of vehicles enter the subject property. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.495 Public Access
A portion of private property subject to an easement giving the public the right to stand on or traverse this portion of the property. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.500 Public Access Pier or Boardwalk
An elevated structure which is constructed waterward of the high water line or upland of the water body and intended for public use. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.501 Public Agency Office
An office maintained and used as a place to transact business, activity and operations of any public 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, and any agency of the state of Washington or of the United States or any state thereof. (Ord. 93-1036 § 3)
15.10.502 Public Agency Yard
A yard or facility used as a place to store materials used by any public 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, and agency of the state of Washington or of the United States or any state thereof, as such materials are used by the “outdoor” operations of the public agency, and further used as a place to maintain equipment and facilities of the public agency. (Ord. 93-1036 § 5)
15.10.503 Public Archives
A facility used by any public 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, and agency of the state of Washington or of the United States or any state thereof for the purposes of archiving, keeping, maintaining or storing documents, records or other property of the public agency; provided, that where such activities occur at the regular offices of the public agency, the provisions applicable to public agency office, as that term is defined in this code, shall control. (Ord. 93-1036 § 6)
15.10.505 Quasi-Public Utility
A private business organization, such as a public service corporation subject to special governmental regulations; or a governmental agency; performing some public service, which is paid for directly by the recipient; including, but not limited to:
A. Water supply;
B. Solid waste;
C. Electric power;
D. Sewer;
E. Natural gas;
F. Telephone or cellular communications;
G. Transportation for persons and freight. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.510 Radio Tower
A structure whose purpose or accessory purpose is the transmission of radio waves and the supporting structure for the transmission antenna or device. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.511 Reasonable Use
A legal concept articulated by federal and state courts in regulatory taking cases. Within the context of these cases and for the purposes of this title, reasonable use shall mean any use permitted in each zone classification, outright or through a permit, and shall not mean the subdivision of property. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.515 Recreation, Community (Recreational Center)
A recreational use, building, or event maintained and operated by a nonprofit club, or an organization whose membership is for a specified group. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.520 Recreation, Public
A recreation use maintained and operated by a governmental agency or any nonprofit organization on publicly owned or leased land for the benefit of the general public; or on private land for a limited user group if the activity fulfills a recreation need that might otherwise be fulfilled by public agencies. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.530 Recreational Vehicle (RV)
A vehicle designed primarily for recreational camping, travel or seasonal use which has its own motive power or is towed by another vehicle, including, but not limited to:
A. Travel trailer;
B. Park trailer;
C. Folding camper trailer;
D. Motor home;
E. Multi-use vehicles;
F. Truck camper. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.535 Recycling
Source separation or the processing of solid waste mechanically or by hand to segregate materials for sale or reuse. Materials which can be removed through recycling include, but are not limited to, mixed paper, newsprint, cardboard, aluminum, glass, plastics, chemicals, oil, wood, compostable organics (food and yard debris), ferrous metal, and inorganics (rubble and inert material). (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.537 Regional Utility Corridor
A right-of-way, tract or easement which contains major transmission lines or pipelines for utility companies, excluding distribution lines contained within street rights-of-way or lines serving individual lots or developments. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.540 Regulated Wetland
A wetland that meets one or more of the following criteria:
A. Serves significant biological functions;
B. Serves significant drainage and sedimentation functions;
C. Shields other areas from wave action, erosion or storm damage;
D. Serves as valuable storage area for storm and flood waters;
E. Is a prime natural recharge area;
F. Serves significant water purification functions.
Although a site specific wetland may not meet the criteria described above, it will be considered a regulated wetland if it is functionally related to another wetland that meets the criteria. Within the wetlands classification process there are the following classes: Class I, Class II, and Class III (See “Wetland” definition, SMC 15.10.675). (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.543 Renovation
Replacement of antenna(e), equipment shelters, cables and related equipment on a wireless telecommunications facility with similar or comparable equipment. (Ord. 97-1013 § 12)
15.10.545 Replacement Cost
The current cost to reconstruct a structure or part of the structure in a manner similar to its previous condition to the current code standards. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.550 Restaurant
Commercial use (excluding fast food restaurants) which sells prepared food or beverages and generally offers accommodations for consuming the food or beverage on the premises. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.551 Restaurant, Fast Food
Commercial use which serves food or beverages, is built to encourage drive-through business, and minimizes the number of interior accommodations for on-site consumption of the product. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.552 Restoration
Returning a stream, wetland, other sensitive area or any associated buffer to a state in which its stability and functions approach its unaltered (or original) state as closely as possible. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.555 Retail Establishment
A commercial enterprise which provides goods and/or services directly to the consumer, whose goods are available for immediate purchase and removal from the premises by the purchaser, and/or whose services are traditionally not permitted within an office use. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.556 Retail Food Shop
Small, resident-oriented food shops selling goods, such as baked goods, coffee, and assorted sundries. Baked goods for sale on-premises, but not for wider distribution, can be prepared on-site. (Ord. 95-1016 § 40)
15.10.557 Retention/Detention Facility
A type of drainage facility designed either to hold water for a considerable length of time and to release it by evaporation, plant transpiration and/or infiltration into the ground, or to hold runoff via structural controls and then release it to the surface and storm drainage system. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.558 Retention/Detention Facility, Regional
A surface water control structure installed in or adjacent to a drainage facility, stream or wetland of a basin or sub-basin by the City or a project proponent, as required by the City. Such facilities protect downstream properties from predicted significant regional basin flooding or erosion problems. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.560 Right-of-Way
Land dedicated primarily to the movement of vehicles and pedestrians, and for providing primary access to adjacent parcels. Secondarily, the land provides space for utility lines and appurtenances and other publicly owned devices. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.561 Secondhand Store
A retail establishment in which the principal portion of the articles, commodities or merchandise handled, offered for sale, or sold on the premises are not new. Secondhand stores shall not be considered as including antique stores or pawn shops. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.561.05 Secure Community Transition Facility (SCTF)
An in-patient facility for Level III sex offenders civilly committed and conditionally released to a less restrictive alternative. An SCTF has twenty-four (24) hour supervision and security, and either provides or ensures the provision of sex offender treatment services. (Ord. 02-1029 § 11)
15.10.562 Seismic Hazard Area
(Denoted on critical areas maps.) Those areas in the City subject to severe risk of earthquake damage as a result of soil liquefaction in areas underlain by cohesionless soils of low density and usually in association with a shallow groundwater table or other seismically induced settlement. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.563 Self-Service Storage
A building or group of buildings containing separate storage spaces of varying sizes that are leased or rented as individual units. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.564 Sensitive Area
Any of those areas in the City which are subject to natural hazards or those land features which support unique, fragile or valuable natural resources including fishes, wildlife and other organisms and their habitat, and such resources which carry, hold or purify water in their natural state. Sensitive areas include coal mine hazard areas, erosion hazard areas, flood hazard areas, landslide hazard areas, seismic hazard areas, steep slope hazard areas, streams, volcanic hazard areas and wetlands. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.565 SEPA
The State Environmental Policy Act (Chapter 43.21C RCW) and the adopted City environmental policies. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.567 Setback
The required distance from the base of a structure, support structure, or the edge of a wireless telecommunications facility equipment shelter to the property line of the parcel on which the structure, support structure or wireless telecommunications facility equipment shelter is located. (Ord. 97-1013 § 13)
15.10.570 Shared Access Point
A common point of vehicle and pedestrian access from a right-of-way, or a vehicular access easement or tract for more than one (1) lot or use. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.575 Shoreline Master Program
The applicable City and State laws/codes related to the shoreline programs. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.605 Significant Tree
An existing healthy tree which, when measured four (4) feet above grade, has a minimum diameter of:
A. Eight (8) inches for evergreen trees; or
B. Twelve (12) inches for deciduous trees (excluding poplar trees). (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.606 Single Attached Dwelling Units
A single-family residential unit attached to a structure with a nonresidential use. (Ord. 94-1006 § 5)
15.10.609 Site
One or more contiguous legal lots used as the basis upon which the provisions and standards of this code are applied. (Ord. 95-1016 § 5; Ord. 92-1041 § 1. Formerly 15.10.610)
15.10.610 Small, Resident-Oriented Uses
Those commercial uses that are geared to primarily serve local residents within a one-half (1/2) mile radius of its location, do not exceed two thousand (2,000) square feet in total gross feet, and will not have any significant impacts, such as excessive traffic or noise, that would negatively impact surrounding residential properties. (Ord. 95-1016 § 41)
15.10.611 Social Service Office
An office maintained and used as a place to transact business activity and operations of any agency, association, entity or organization, whether public or private, and whether a business or a nonprofit organization, which provides as a major part of its function charitable, educational, legal, medical, psychological, religious, political entity, services to the community, including but not limited to associations, fraternal organizations and public service organizations; provided, that this definition shall not include hospitals and medical/dental clinics as those terms are defined in this code. (Ord. 93-1036 § 4. Formerly 15.10.612*.)
* Code reviser’s note: This section renumbered to accommodate sections added subsequent to adoption of Ord. 93-1036.
15.10.612 Specialized Instruction School
A school providing specialized instruction in areas including, but not limited to, art, dance, music, cooking, martial arts and related disciplines. Truck driving instructional schools and heavy equipment operational schools shall not fall within this definition. A specialized instruction school is also to be distinguished from vocational-technical schools, as defined in SMC 15.10.671. (Ord. 94-1006 § 7)
15.10.613 Steep Slope Hazard Areas
Those areas in the City on slopes of forty percent (40%) or greater within a vertical elevation change of at least ten (10) feet. A slope is delineated by establishing its toe and top, and is measured by averaging the inclination over at least ten (10) feet of vertical relief. (Ord. 94-1006 § 6; Ord. 92-1041 § 1. Formerly 15.10.611.)
15.10.615 Storm Drainage
The movement of water, due to precipitation, either surficially or underground. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.620 Stream
A course or route, formed by nature, including those modified by man, generally consisting of a channel with a bed, banks, or sides substantially throughout its length, along which surface waters naturally and normally flow in draining from higher to lower lands. Normal rainfall is rainfall that is at or near the mean of the accumulated annual rainfall record, based upon the water year as recorded at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Pursuant to the sensitive areas section, there are the following stream classifications:
A. Class 1 streams, only including streams inventoried as “Shorelines of the State” under the adopted Shoreline Master Program, pursuant to Chapter 90.58 RCW;
B. Class 2 streams, only including streams smaller than Class 1 streams which flow year-round during years of normal rainfall or those which are used by salmonids; and
C. Class 3 streams, only including streams which are intermittent or ephemeral during years of normal rainfall and which are not used by salmonids. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.623 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 groundwater aquifers; moderating surface and storm water flows and maintaining the free flowing conveyance of water, sediments and other organic matter. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.625 Street, Private
Any easement, tract or street for ingress and egress which is not a public street. Driveways which are not part of an easement, tract or street for ingress and egress shall not be considered a street. (Ord. 97-1010 § 1; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.630 Street, Public
All streets, highways, freeways, avenues, lanes, alleys, courts, places, or other public ways in the City, whether improved or unimproved, held in public ownership and intended to be open as a matter of right to public vehicular and pedestrian access. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.631 Structure
Anything which is built or constructed (above or below grade), an edifice of building of any kind, or any piece of work artificially built-up or composed of parts joined together in some definite manner, excluding benches, statuary, utility boxes/lights, light poles, minor utility apertures, planter boxes less than forty-two (42) inches in height, and fences seventy-two (72) inches or under in height. (Ord. 95-1016 § 6; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.635 Support Structure
A freestanding monopole or tower designed solely to support telecommunications facilities on which wireless telecommunications facilities are mounted. (Ord. 97-1013 § 14)
15.10.638 Tavern
A commercial establishment licensed to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on premises. Such establishments also usually offer food for on-site consumption, which may be prepackaged or prepared on premises. (Ord. 95-1016 § 42)
15.10.639 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. (Ord. 97-1013 § 15)
15.10.640 Topsoil
The uppermost strata of soil containing a large percentage of organic materials which is capable of providing suitable nourishment for vegetation. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.640.05 Tower
A freestanding structure designed solely to support an antenna(e) or antenna platform(s), and consisting of a network of crossed metal braces which may be three (3) or more-sided. (Ord. 97-1013 § 16)
15.10.641 Townhouse
Multi-dwelling unit residential structures of two (2) or three (3) stories, not counting a basement, where the dwelling units share common walls and have separate entrances. Townhouses may be owner occupied, rental properties or under condominium ownerships. (Ord. 94-1006 § 8)
15.10.645 Traffic Control Devices
Signs, signals, stripes and other mechanical or graphic items which control the flow or direction of vehicular and pedestrian traffic. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.646 Transit Park and Ride Lot
An approved parking lot used exclusively for providing motor vehicle and vehicular circulation specifically for the purposes of access to a metropolitan (or regional) public transportation system. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.648 Transitional Housing
Repealed by Ord. 99-1005. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.649 Transitional Housing
Housing provided under a program, offering twenty-four (24) hour access to specific persons, for periods of one month or more for human services purposes, such as helping unemployed, homeless individuals to obtain employment and permanent housing. Transitional housing is not a transient accommodation. (Ord. 01-1011 § 8)
15.10.650 Uniform Building Code (UBC)
The Uniform Building and related codes as amended and adopted by the City. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.660 Urban Center
An area of the City of SeaTac that is delineated on the City of SeaTac Official Zoning Map where urban densities and design standards are required, specifically within the UH-UCR, CB-C, O/CM, and ABC zones. (Ord. 95-1028 § 3; Ord. 95-1016 § 43)
15.10.668 Use
An activity or purpose for which land, premises or a building thereon is designed, arranged, intended, or for which it is occupied or maintained, let or leased. (Ord. 95-1016 § 7; Ord. 92-1041 § 1. Formerly 15.10.670)
15.10.668.05 Utility Pole
Utility poles include telephone poles, light poles, and electrical transmission poles. (Ord. 97-1013 § 17)
15.10.669 Utility Use
Facilities serving local areas including power lines, water and sewer lines, storm drainage facilities, transformers, pump stations and hydrants, switching boxes and other structures generally located in public rights-of-way or dedicated easements. (Ord. 95-1016 § 44)
15.10.670 Utility Substation
Moderate to large scale facilities serving a sub-area, entire city or region including power substations, water transmission lines, wireless base stations, sewer collectors and pump stations, switching stations, gas transmission lines, water storage tanks and reservoirs and similar structures. (Ord. 95-1016 § 45)
15.10.671 Vocational-Technical Schools
Schools and institutions providing longer-term (at least one (1) year) programs leading to proficiency, certification and associate degrees in vocational programs including computers, mechanical, food and hospitality service, automotive and aircraft services, surveying, welding, photography, carpentry, agriculture, horticulture, electrical, plumbing and construction trades. (Ord. 94-1006 § 9)
15.10.675 Wetland
Those areas in the City which are inundated or saturated by ground or surface water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. According to the 33 CFR 328.3 (1988), wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas. Where the vegetation has been removed or substantially altered, a wetland shall be determined by the presence or evidence of hydric or organic soil, as well as by other documentation, such as aerial photographs of the previous existence of wetland vegetation. When the areas of any wetlands are hydrologically connected to each other, they shall be added together to determine which of the following categories of wetlands apply:
A. Class I Wetland. Only includes wetlands assigned the Unique/Outstanding #1 rating in the 1983 King County Wetlands Inventory (or the most recent City inventory) or which meet any of the following criteria:
1. Are wetlands which have present species listed by the federal or state government as endangered or threatened or outstanding actual habitat for those;
2. Are wetlands which have forty percent (40%) to sixty percent (60%) permanent open water in dispersed patches with two (2) or more classes of vegetation;
3. Are wetlands equal to or greater than ten (10) acres in size and have three (3) or more wetland classes, one of which is open water;
4. Are wetlands which have present plant associations of infrequent occurrence;
5. Spaghnum or peat wetlands; or
6. Forested wetlands equal to or greater than one (1) acre in size.
B. Class II Wetland. Only includes wetlands assigned the Significant #2 rating in the 1983 King County Wetlands Inventory (or the most recent City inventory) or which meet any of the following criteria:
1. Are wetlands greater than one (1) acre in size; or
2. Are wetlands equal to or less than one (1) acre in size and have three (3) or more wetland classes; or
3. Are forested wetlands less than one (1) acre in size but are larger than two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet; or
4. Are wetlands which have present heron rookeries or raptor nesting trees.
C. Class III Wetland. Only includes wetlands assigned the Lesser Concern #3 rating in the 1983 King County Wetlands Inventory (or most recent City inventory) or which are wetlands equal to or less than one (1) acre in size and have two (2) or fewer wetland classes. This does not include drainage ditches used as part of an approved public storm drainage system that may support wetland vegetation or retention/detention systems. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.680 Wetland Edge
The line delineating the outer edge of a wetland established by using the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual in conjunction with the Washington Regional Guidance on the 1987 Wetland Delineation Manual dated May 23, 1994. (Ord. 95-1016 § 7; Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.685 Wetland, Forested
A wetland which is characterized by woody vegetation at least twenty (20) feet tall. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.690 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 availability and quality of water, acting as recharge and discharge areas for groundwater aquifers and moderating surface and storm water flows, as well as providing other functions including, but not limited to, those set forth in 33 CFR 320.4(b)(2), 1988. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.700 Wetland, Isolated
A wetland which has a total size less than two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet excluding buffers, which is hydrologically isolated from other wetlands or streams, and which does not have permanent open water. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.705 Wet Meadow, Grazed
Palustrine emergent wetland typically having up to six (6) inches of standing water during the wet season and dominated under normal conditions by meadow emergents such as reed, canary grass, spike rushes, bulrushes, sedges and other rushes. During the growing season, the soil is often saturated but not covered with water. These meadows frequently have been or are being used for livestock activities. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.710 Wet Pond
An artificial water body constructed as a part of a surface water management system. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
15.10.713 Wireless Telecommunications Facility (WTF)
Any unstaffed facility or component thereof for the transmission and/or reception of radio frequency (RF) signals through electromagnetic energy, which enable the provision of cellular, personal communications services (PCS), specialized mobile radio (SMR), enhanced specialized mobile radio (ESMR), paging, wireless digital data transmission, and other similar services that currently exist or that may in the future be developed. Wireless telecommunications facilities include towers and monopoles; equipment shelters, communication node cabinets, above-ground pedestal cabinets; antenna(e), antenna platform(s), and relay station facilities; cables and associated equipment. (Ord. 97-1013 § 18)
15.10.715 Zoning Map
The map designated as such and adopted by the City showing the geographical location of use zones within the municipal boundaries. (Ord. 92-1041 § 1)
