§ 20.120.010 Purpose – Applicability.

§ 20.120.020 Conformity required.

§ 20.120.030 Minimum requirements.

§ 20.120.040 Interpretation, generally.

§ 20.122.010 Intent.

§ 20.122.020 Awning and canopy.

A wall-mounted, cantilevered structure providing shade and cover from the weather for a sidewalk.

(1) 

An awning/canopy must be a minimum of nine feet clear height above the sidewalk and must have a minimum depth of six feet.

(2) 

An awning/canopy may extend into a primary or side street setback.

(3) 

An awning/canopy may encroach up to six feet into the public right-of-way but must be at least two feet inside the curb line or edge of pavement, whichever is greater.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 008-25 § 14 (Exh. M))

§ 20.122.030 Balcony.

A platform projecting from the wall of an upper story of a building with a railing along its outer edge, often with access from a door or window.

(1) 

A balcony must be at least four feet deep.

(2) 

A balcony must have a clear height above the sidewalk of at least nine feet.

(3) 

A balcony may be covered and screened but cannot be fully enclosed.

(4) 

A balcony may extend into a primary or side street setback.

(5) 

A balcony may encroach up to six feet into the public right-of-way but must be at least two feet inside the curb line or edge of pavement, whichever is greater.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 008-25 § 14 (Exh. M))

§ 20.122.040 Forecourt.

An open area at grade, or within 30 inches of grade, that serves as an open space, plaza or outdoor dining area.

(1) 

A forecourt must be no more than one-half of the width of the street-facing building facade, and in no case more than 45 feet in width.

(2) 

The depth of the forecourt may exceed the general width, but may be no more than 45 feet in depth.

(3) 

A maximum of one forecourt is permitted per building.

(4) 

A forecourt meeting the above requirements is considered part of the building for the purpose of measuring the build-to zone.

(5) 

A forecourt shall be improved to meet the minimum requirements of pedestrian-oriented space as described in POMC § 20.127.350(4).

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 008-25 § 14 (Exh. M))

§ 20.122.050 Gallery.

A covered passage extending along the outside wall of a building supported by arches or columns that is open on three sides.

(1) 

A gallery must have a clear depth from the support columns to the building's facade of at least eight feet and a clear height above the sidewalk of at least nine feet.

(2) 

A gallery must be contiguous and extend over at least 75 percent of the width of the building facade from which it projects.

(3) 

A gallery may extend into a primary or side street setback.

(4) 

A gallery may encroach up to nine feet into the public right-of-way but must be at least two feet inside the curb line or edge of pavement, whichever is greater.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 008-25 § 14 (Exh. M))

§ 20.122.060 Porch.

A raised structure attached to a building, forming a covered entrance to a doorway.

(1) 

A porch must be at least six feet deep (not including the steps) when measured from the building facade to end of the porch. A portion of the porch, not to exceed 25 percent of the porch's width, may be less than six feet deep; provided, that the front door is recessed by at least six feet.

(2) 

A porch must be contiguous, with a width not less than 50 percent of the building facade from which it projects. For the purposes of this section, the building facade shall not include that portion of the building containing an attached garage.

(3) 

A porch must be roofed and may be screened, but cannot be fully enclosed.

(4) 

A porch may extend up to nine feet, including the steps, into a required front setback; provided, that such extension is at least three feet from the vertical plane of any lot line.

(5) 

A porch may not encroach into the public right-of-way.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 014-20 § 4; Ord. 033-20 § 10; Ord. 059-21 § 11; Ord. 008-25 § 14 (Exh. M))

§ 20.122.070 Stoop.

A small raised platform that serves as an entrance to a building.

(1) 

A stoop must be no more than six feet deep (not including the steps) and six feet wide.

(2) 

A stoop may be covered but cannot be fully enclosed.

(3) 

A stoop may extend up to six feet, including the steps, into a required setback; provided, that such extension is at least two feet from the vertical plane of any lot line.

(4) 

A stoop may not encroach into the public right-of-way.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 008-25 § 14 (Exh. M))

§ 20.122.080 Landing.

§ 20.124.010 Purpose.

§ 20.124.020 Authority and application.

§ 20.124.030 Off-street parking spaces requirement.

§ 20.124.040 Bicycle parking required.

§ 20.124.050 Electric vehicle parking required.

§ 20.124.060 Accessible parking requirements.

§ 20.124.070 Stacking spaces for drive-through facilities.

§ 20.124.080 Transit and rideshare provisions.

§ 20.124.090 Vehicle access, carports, garages, and driveways.

(1) 

The standards in this section shall apply to detached houses, and middle housing as defined in Chapters 20.12 and 20.32 POMC, in any zone in which they are built.

(2) 

For lots abutting an improved alley that meets the city's standard for width, vehicular access shall be taken from the alley. Lots without access to an improved alley and taking vehicular access from a street shall meet the other standards of subsections (3) through (6) of this section.

(3) 

Garages, driveways, and off-street parking areas shall not be located between a building and a street, except when any of the following conditions are met:

(a) 

The combined width of all garages, driveways, and off-street parking areas does not exceed a total of 60 percent of the length of the street frontage property line. This standard applies to buildings and not individual units; or

(b) 

The garage, driveway, or off-street parking area is separated from the street property line by a dwelling; or

(c) 

The garage, driveway, or off-street parking is located more than 100 feet from a street.

(4) 

All detached garages and carports shall not protrude beyond the front building facade.

(5) 

The total width of all driveway approaches shall not exceed 32 feet per frontage, as measured at the property line. Individual driveway approaches shall not exceed 20 feet in width.

(6) 

Requirements for driveway separation and access from collector streets and arterial streets shall conform to the standards described in the adopted public works standards and specifications.

(Ord. 019-17 § 18 (Exh. 1); Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 008-25 § 15 (Exh. N))

§ 20.124.100 Off-street parking design standards.

§ 20.124.110 Compact car allowance requirements.

§ 20.124.120 Internal circulation road standards.

§ 20.124.130 Downtown mixed use parking standards.

§ 20.124.140 Parking quantities.

§ 20.124.150 Minimum parking stall dimensions.

§ 20.128.010 Purpose.

§ 20.128.020 Applicability and compliance.

§ 20.128.030 Landscape plans.

§ 20.128.040 Integration with LID stormwater management facilities.

§ 20.128.050 Plant material and installation standards.

§ 20.128.060 Landscaping types.

(1) 

Type A Landscaping.

(a) 

Type A landscaping shall function as a full screen and visual barrier. This landscaping is typically found between residential and nonresidential areas and used to screen unwanted views.

(b) 

Type A landscaping shall minimally consist of:

(i) 

Trees. Predominately evergreen (more than 50 percent) at the following rates on landscape strips:

(A) 

One large tree per 300 square feet or 30 linear feet.

(B) 

One medium tree per 220 square feet or 22 linear feet.

(C) 

One small tree per 150 square feet or 15 linear feet.

At least 70 percent of the trees shall be large.

(ii) 

Shrubs. Predominately evergreen provided at a rate of one shrub per four linear feet of landscaped strip and spaced no more than eight feet on center.

(iii) 

Plant Diversity. Trees and shrubs must comply with POMC § 20.128.050(5).

(iv) 

Ground Cover. Planted at a density to cover the landscape buffer per POMC § 20.128.070 within three years.

(v) 

The selected plant materials and configuration will be able to screen 70 percent of the unwanted views within five years of planting and fully screen the unwanted view within six years. This requirement will account for the size of materials planted and their typical growth rate.

Figure 20.128.060(1) Type A Landscaping Standards

(2) 

Type B Landscaping.

(a) 

Type B landscaping is a "filtered screen" that functions as a visual separator. This landscaping is typically found between differing types of residential development and used to screen unwanted views from the pedestrian environment.

(b) 

Type B landscaping shall minimally consist of:

(i) 

Trees. At least 50 percent deciduous trees and at least 30 percent evergreen trees at the following rates on landscape strips:

(A) 

One large tree per 300 square feet or 30 linear feet.

(B) 

One medium tree per 220 square feet or 22 linear feet.

(C) 

One small tree per 150 square feet or 15 linear feet.

At least 70 percent of the trees shall be large.

(ii) 

Shrubs. Provided at the rate of one shrub per four linear feet of landscaped strip and spaced no more than eight feet on center.

(iii) 

Plant Diversity. Trees and shrubs must comply with POMC § 20.128.050(5).

(iv) 

Ground Cover. Planted at a density to cover the landscape buffer per POMC § 20.128.070 within three years.

(v) 

The selected plant materials and configuration will meet the purpose of the standards within five years of planting. This requirement will account for the size of materials and the growth rate.

Figure 20.128.060(2) Type B Landscaping Standards

(3) 

Type C Landscaping.

(a) 

Type C landscaping is a "see-through screen" that functions as a partial visual separator to soften the appearance of parking areas and building elevations. This landscaping is typically found along street frontages or between multifamily developments.

(b) 

Type C landscaping shall minimally consist of:

(i) 

Trees. At least 70 percent deciduous trees at the following rates on landscape strips:

(A) 

One large tree per 300 square feet or 30 linear feet.

(B) 

One medium tree per 220 square feet or 22 linear feet.

(C) 

One small tree per 150 square feet or 15 linear feet.

At least 70 percent of the trees shall be large.

(ii) 

Shrubs. Provided at the rate of one shrub per four linear feet of landscaped strip and spaced no more than eight feet on center.

(iii) 

Ground Cover. Planted at a density to cover the landscape buffer per POMC § 20.128.070 within three years.

(iv) 

Plant Diversity. Trees and shrubs must comply with POMC § 20.128.050(5).

(v) 

Tree and shrub placement shall be designed to maximize pedestrian visibility (generally between three and eight feet above grade once trees have matured).

(vi) 

The selected plant materials and configuration will meet the purpose of the standards within five years of planting. This requirement will account for the size of materials and the growth rate.

(c) 

Where Type C landscaping is designed to also function as a rain garden, adjustments in the spacing of trees, shrubs, and ground cover will be allowed provided the rain garden meets the function requirements of subsection (6) of this section and the intended function of Type C landscaping as defined in subsection (3)(a) of this section.

Figure 20.128.060(3) Type C Landscaping Standards

(4) 

Type D Landscaping.

(a) 

Type D landscaping refers to all other landscaped areas that do not qualify as Type A – C landscaping. While native and low maintenance trees and shrubs are encouraged in these areas, lawn areas may be used for recreational or design purposes. These areas may also include flower beds and perennial beds.

(b) 

Type D landscaping may include any combination of plant materials provided they comply with POMC § 20.128.050.

(5) 

Low Hedge. A low hedge is intended to function as an attractive visual divider of space rather than a visual buffer between uses and properties. To qualify as a hedge landscaping type, the planting must be at least 30 inches wide and 30 inches tall. The hedge include plant materials that typically grow no taller than five feet at maturity or are maintained between 30 inches and 48 inches tall. Additional limits on hedges may be imposed by the public works director within required sight triangles at intersections. Shrubs or other hedge plant materials must be placed at a rate of one per four linear feet of landscaped strip or otherwise recommended for shrub species. Plant spacing information must be included with permit application submittals from published sources, such as the Sunset Western Garden Book, from Internet sources, or from cut sheets provided by the nursery.

Figure 20.128.060(5) Low Hedge Examples

(6) 

Rain Garden. A rain garden is a landscaped depression that collects, absorbs, and filters stormwater runoff from rooftops, driveways, patios, and other hard surfaces. They can also function as an attractive visual divider of space. To qualify as a rain garden, the following elements must be included:

(a) 

Garden located and designed to capture impervious area runoff.

(b) 

Six to 12 inches ponding depth.

(c) 

Twelve to 24 inches rain garden soil depth with two to three inches surface mulch layer.

(d) 

Gradual side slopes (maximum 2:1).

(e) 

Overflow design elements with measures to protect erosion.

(f) 

Generous plantings (capable of reaching 100 percent ground cover) of a variety of small trees, shrubs, ground covers, and grasses. Select plants suitable for the three planting zones within the garden and around the perimeter.

Figure 20.128.060(6) Rain Garden Examples

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2))

§ 20.128.070 Landscape site design standards.

(1) 

Required Landscape Buffer Standards. Screening between certain uses may be called for in Table 20.128.070 below or elsewhere in this chapter:

(a) 

The provisions of this section do not apply to, and landscape buffers are not required for, development with a designated storefront block frontage (POMC § 20.127.100 through § 20.127.260) unless required as a condition of a permit (such as a conditional use permit or subdivision) or SEPA.

(b) 

Where mature trees and vegetation exist within the required buffer areas, the preservation of said mature trees and vegetation may be preferable to new plant materials. The director may require up to 50 percent additional buffer width and/or specific planting conditions to better ensure the survival of existing mature trees and/or augment existing plantings to meet the intent of the standards.

(c) 

The letters A, B, and C refer to the required landscape buffer type(s) (described in POMC § 20.128.060). Where more than one buffer type is referenced at the intersection of the column and the row, only one of the listed buffer types is required.

(d) 

Where the cells at the intersection of the column and the row are empty, there are no landscaping buffer requirements for the particular situation.

(e) 

If a * appears after a use or term within the table, then the use or term is defined in Chapter 20.12 or 20.39 POMC.

(f) 

Where superscript numbers are included in a cell, see the corresponding note matching the number below the table.

(g) 

For the application of building additions, remodels and site improvements, the provisions of POMC § 20.127.020(3) shall apply.

(h) 

Departures. Alternative buffer treatments may be approved per POMC § 20.127.060 for any of the buffer types required below, provided they meet the purpose of this chapter.

Table 20.128.070 Required Buffer Types for Developing Uses
Developing use	Existing abutting uses and zones
	Street, park or trail	R1, R2, R6, GB zones	R3, R4, R5 zones	RMU, NMU, GMU, DMU, CMU, BPMU zones	CC, CH zones	IF zone	IL zone	IH zone	CI, PF zones
Single-family attached* (3 or more units) or multifamily* (3 or more units)	See subsection (2) below.	Fence plus BC-5'	Fence plus BC-5'	Fence and BC-5' and path	Fence and BC-5' and path	Fence plus AB-10'	Fence plus AB-10'	Fence plus AB-10'	Fence plus BC-5'
Low intensity nonresidential use*		Fence plus ABC-5'	Fence plus ABC-5'	Fence or BC-5' or path	Fence or BC-5' or path	Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-10'
Moderate intensity nonresidential use*		Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence or BC-5' or path	Fence or BC-5' or path	Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-10'
High intensity nonresidential use*		Fence plus ABC-15'	Fence plus ABC-15'	Fence or BC-5' or path	Fence or BC-5' or path	Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-15'
Use featuring an open storage yard*		Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-10'	Fence plus ABC-5' or A-10'	Fence plus ABC-5' or A-10'	Fence or A-5' or B-10'	Fence or A-5' or B-10'	Fence or A-5' or B-10'	Fence plus ABC-10'
Heavy industry*		Fence plus ABC-20'	Fence plus ABC-20'	Fence plus ABC-5' or A-10'	Fence plus ABC-5' or A-10'	Fence plus ABC-5' or A-10'	Fence plus ABC-5' or A-10'	Fence plus ABC-5' or A-10'	Fence plus ABC-20'

(2) 

Street, Park, or Trail Buffers.

(a) 

For landscaping between uses or structures and streets, also see the applicable block frontage standards in POMC § 20.127.100 through § 20.127.260. Plant materials, installation, and maintenance are subject to the standards of this chapter.

(b) 

For nonresidential, single-family attached (three units or more), and multifamily development (three units or more), see POMC § 20.127.220 for trail/park block frontage standards. Alternative designs will be considered based on the unique context of the site, the development, and the park/trail provided the designs promote safety for park/trail users, and mitigate any potential negative impacts of the proposed use on the park/trail.

(c) 

For storage yards, a minimum 10-foot wide planting strip with Type A landscaping is required between any street and such storage yard.

(3) 

Surface Parking Lot Landscaping.

(a) 

Parking Lot Perimeters.

(i) 

For parking lots abutting public right-of-way, use Type C landscaping at a width equal to or greater than the minimum building setback specified for the applicable block frontage type specified in POMC § 20.127.100 through § 20.127.260. For parking lots on sites without an applicable block frontage type, the parking lot landscape buffer shall be at least 10 feet deep.

(ii) 

For parking lots along internal private roadways in commercial areas, provide a planting strip at least six feet wide with Type C landscaping.

(iii) 

For parking lots along internal lot lines, use Type A or B landscaping at least 10 feet deep, except where a greater buffer width is required per the standards in Table 20.128.070.

Departures will be considered provided they meet the purpose of this chapter. Examples of acceptable departures may include decorative low walls with landscaping, decorative elevated planters, or landscaping with a trellis. In no case may landscaping buffers be less than five feet wide. The minimum height of planters or walls, where used, is three feet. The maximum height of walls where used shall be five feet.

Figure 20.128.070(3)(a) Parking Lot Perimeter Landscaping Departure Examples

Above are two possible departure parking lot landscaping buffer designs that may be acceptable in more urbanized areas, such as downtown.

(b) 

Internal Parking Lot Landscaping.

(i) 

Trees and Shrubs Required.

(A) 

For every 1,000 square feet of vehicular use area, at least one deciduous tree must be planted.

(B) 

Trees and shrubs must be planted within 15 feet of the parking lot to count as parking lot landscaping.

(C) 

When a development contains 20 or more parking spaces, 50 percent of the trees and shrubs must be planted in islands or medians located within the parking lot.

(ii) 

Landscaping Type.

(A) 

Type C landscaping shall be utilized for landscaping islands internal to parking lots.

(B) 

At least 75 percent of the required deciduous trees must be large trees. Medium and small trees are acceptable where overhead electric lines would interfere with normal growth.

(C) 

Rain gardens and swales may be integrated into required planting areas.

(iii) 

Landscaped Island Sizes. At a minimum, tree islands shall be a minimum of 256 square feet. Planting islands must be at least six feet deep and wide.

(iv) 

Landscaped Island Spacing. Parking bays shall be broken up with landscaped islands or medians to avoid long monotonous rows of parking. Tree islands shall be evenly distributed throughout the parking lot in order to provide an even tree canopy throughout the lot.

(v) 

Each parking space must be located within 75 feet of a tree measured from the closest point of the parking space to the tree trunk.

Departures will be considered provided they meet the purpose of this chapter.

(4) 

Foundation Planting. All street-facing elevations must have landscaping along any exposed foundation. The landscaped area may be along the outer edge of a porch instead of the foundation. This landscaping requirement does not apply to portions of the building facade that provide access for pedestrians or vehicles to the building. The foundation landscaping must meet the following standards:

(a) 

The landscaped area must be at least three feet wide.

(b) 

There must be at least one three-gallon shrub for every three lineal feet of foundation.

(c) 

Ground cover plants must fully cover the remainder of the landscaped area.

Figure 20.128.070(4) Foundation Planting Foundation plantings would be required along this exposed concrete foundation.

(5) 

Existing Vegetation.

(a) 

Existing healthy, native, and noninvasive vegetation may be used to fulfill the requirements of this chapter.

(b) 

When existing vegetation is proposed to be used to fulfill the requirements of this chapter, that vegetation shall be shown on required landscape plans as "existing vegetation to be retained" and prior to land disturbing activities, these areas shall be flagged in the field and be protected by construction fencing. In the event that existing vegetation proposed to be used to fulfill the requirements of this chapter is altered, damaged, or removed during development or construction activity, this area shall be restored to its original state after the development or construction activity is complete, or, shall be replanted in accordance with a new revised landscaping plan developed and approved in accordance with this chapter.

(6) 

Stormwater Facilities.

(a) 

Plant-based stormwater treatment facilities such as rain gardens (see POMC § 20.128.060(6)) and swales may be used to meet the requirements of this section as provided elsewhere in this chapter.

(b) 

Stormwater detention facilities such as ponds and collection basins may not be used to meet the requirements of this section unless designed per subsection (6)(a) of this section.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2))

§ 20.128.080 Development within required buffers.

§ 20.128.090 Irrigation standards.

§ 20.128.100 Maintenance of required buffers and landscaped areas.

§ 20.128.110 Performance assurance/bonding.

§ 20.128.120 Maintenance assurance/bonding.

§ 20.129.010 Purpose.

§ 20.129.020 Applicability.

§ 20.129.030 Definitions.

§ 20.129.040 Removal and replacement of all significant trees.

§ 20.129.050 Retention and protection of significant trees associated with development proposals.

§ 20.139.005 Purpose.

§ 20.139.010 Applicability.

§ 20.139.015 Garage configuration standards.

§ 20.139.020 Garage placement and design.

(1) 

The following provisions apply to detached houses and middle housing:

(a) 

Where lots front a public street, and where vehicular access is from the street, attached garages or carports shall be set back at least five feet behind the ground floor front wall of the occupied portion of the building or front edge of an unenclosed porch.

Exceptions:

(i) 

Garages may project up to six feet closer to the street than the ground floor front wall of the occupied portion of a building or front edge of an unenclosed porch, provided it is set back at least 20 feet from the property line and incorporates at least two of the design/detail features below. Garages placed flush with the ground floor front wall or behind the front wall of the building shall incorporate at least one of the design/detail features below:

(A) 

A decorative trellis or arbor over the entire garage face, above and surrounding the garage door.

(B) 

A balcony that extends out over the garage and includes columns.

(C) 

Two separate doors for two-car garages instead of one large door.

(D) 

Decorative windows on the garage door.

(E) 

Decorative details on the garage door. Standard squares on a garage door will not qualify as a decorative detail. Traditional visible hinges and handles (functional or decorative), and other construction methods creating depth and texture on a garage door surface are acceptable forms of decorative details. Examples of decorative details are shown in Figure 2.

(F) 

A garage door color (other than white) that matches or complements the color of the building.

(G) 

Other design techniques that effectively deemphasize the garage, as determined by the director.

(ii) 

Garages may be placed closer to the street than the front wall of the building or front edge of an unenclosed porch, provided the garage door faces an interior lot line and features (a) window(s) facing the street, so that it appears to be habitable.

(iii) 

Where lots abut an alley, the garage or off-street parking area shall take access from the alley, unless precluded by steep topography. This requirement shall not apply to unopened alleys.

Figure 1. Garage placement/frontage standards and design.

Figure 2. Garage design/detail examples.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 059-21 § 14; Ord. 008-25 § 17 (Exh. P))

§ 20.139.022 Driveway standards for detached houses and middle housing.

§ 20.139.025 Building design.

This section shall apply to detached houses and middle housing as defined in Chapters 20.12 and 20.32 POMC.

(1) 

Covered Entry.

(a) 

All detached houses shall have a porch meeting the standards of POMC § 20.122.060.

(b) 

All middle housing buildings shall provide a covered entry consistent with the requirements of the specific building type as described in Chapter 20.32 POMC.

(2) 

Repealed by Ord. 008-25.

(3) 

Windows and Transparency. All buildings subject to these standards shall include windows that collectively constitute the greater of a minimum of the transparency percentage required of its building type as described in Chapter 20.32 POMC as follows:

(a) 

Transparent windows and/or doors facing the street are required. To meet this requirement, transparency shall be provided on each required building facade at the percentage identified for the specific building type in Chapter 20.32 POMC.

(i) 

The calculation for determining compliance with the transparency (window) area requirement shall be as follows:

Total Window Area = (Sum of the individual areas of all windows on a building facade)

Total Building Facade Area = (The total surface area of the building facade)

Window Area Percentage = (Total building facade window area/total building facade area) * 100.

(ii) 

A building facade is measured from the base of the house to the start of the roofline and any other vertical walls facing the street, except for gabled portions of the facade not containing livable floor area (see Figure 3 for clarification). Garages located on the street facing wall of the house shall count as part of the facade.

Figure 3. Facade transparency.

(b) 

All buildings with street-facing facades shall include window trim and details that conform to the following standards:

(i) 

Trim Width. Window trim shall have a minimum width of three and one-half inches, measured from the edge of the window frame to the outer edge of the trim.

(ii) 

Trim Depth. Window trim shall extend outward from the facade to a minimum depth of two inches.

(iii) 

Visual Interest. Window trim and details shall be designed to enhance visual interest and architectural character. This may include decorative moldings, sills, lintels, or other architectural elements that create depth and texture. A minimum of two options from the following list must be used to achieve visual interest compliance for window treatments on street-facing facades:

(A) 

Shutters on all street-facing windows. Shutters shall be installed in a manner consistent with the architectural style of the building.

(B) 

A keystone above a window (on masonry homes). The keystone shall be designed to complement the overall architectural style and shall be appropriately sized and located above the window.

(C) 

Windows containing more than two glass panes (or that give the appearance of multiple panes). Multi-pane windows shall be designed and arranged to enhance visual interest and architectural character.

(D) 

Stained or custom glass. Stained or custom glass shall be incorporated into windows in a manner that enhances visual interest and complements the building's design.

(E) 

Exterior window sills. Exterior sills shall be designed and installed to provide depth and visual interest to the windows.

(F) 

Other design techniques that effectively emphasize windows as an architectural feature as determined by the director.

(iv) 

An exception to the requirements of subsections (3)(b)(i) through (3)(b)(iii) of this section may be granted where the minimum transparency of the specific building type as described in Chapter 20.32 POMC is exceeded by a rate of at least five percent.

Figure 4. Acceptable (left and middle) and unacceptable (right) window design.

Figure 5. Examples of distinctive window or facade treatments.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 008-25 § 17 (Exh. P))

§ 20.139.030 Architectural details.

This section shall apply to detached houses and middle housing.

(1) 

Architectural Details. Provide for architectural details that add visual interest to the neighborhood and are well proportioned to achieve good human scale. Specifically, incorporate at least three of the following detail elements into the facade of the building:

(a) 

Decorative porch design, including decorative columns or railings.

(b) 

Bay windows or balconies.

(c) 

Decorative molding/framing details around all ground floor windows and doors.

(d) 

Decorative door design including transom and/or side lights or other distinctive features.

(e) 

Decorative roofline elements including brackets, multiple dormers, and chimneys.

(f) 

Decorative building materials, including decorative masonry, shingle, brick, tile, stone, or other materials with decorative or textural qualities.

(g) 

Landscaped trellises or other decorative elements that incorporate landscaping near the building entry.

(h) 

Distinctive paint schemes (such as a paint scheme consisting of three or more colors).

(i) 

Other decorative facade elements or details that meet the intent and standards as determined by the director.

Figure 6. Examples of how buildings can meet architectural detail criteria. Image A includes decorative windows, building material treatment, and roofline elements. Image B includes decorative brick use, window treatments, entry design, and ventilation circles. Image C includes decorative building materials, door/entry feature, windows, and roofline elements.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 008-25 § 17 (Exh. P))

§ 20.139.035 Architectural variety.

(1) 

Purpose. The purpose of this section is to ensure architectural variety in developments by accommodating various architectural styles, design elements, and facade elevations for certain building types.

(2) 

Applicability. This section shall apply to detached houses and middle housing building types:

(3) 

Architectural Variety Standards. Buildings subject to architectural variety requirements shall comply with the following standards:

(a) 

Facade Elevation Variety Standards. The number of different facade elevations required shall be based on the size of the development or street block, and shall comply with the following standards:

(i) 

Duplicative building designs adjacent to each other are prohibited. Simple reverse configurations of the same building design on adjacent lots are not sufficient to meet architectural variety goals. Exceptions may be granted by the director in special circumstances where similar architectural consistency provides a distinct character for a cluster of buildings surrounding an open space or on a particular street.

(ii) 

Generally, the more buildings in a subdivision or on a street block, the greater the number of different facade elevations will be required. Specifically, the following subdivision and street block variety standards shall apply:

(A) 

Subdivisions.

1. 

Ten to 19 buildings, a minimum of four different facade elevations shall be used.

2. 

Twenty to 39 buildings, a minimum of five different facade elevations shall be used.

3. 

Forty to 69 buildings, a minimum of six different facade elevations shall be used.

4. 

Seventy or more buildings, a minimum of seven different facade elevations shall be used.

(B) 

Street Block.

1. 

Less than six buildings, a minimum of three different facade elevations shall be used.

2. 

Seven to 10 buildings, a minimum of four different facade elevations shall be used.

3. 

Eleven to 14 buildings, a minimum of five different facade elevations shall be used.

4. 

Fifteen or more buildings, a minimum of six different facade elevations shall be used.

Figure 7. Examples of homes featuring different facade elevations. Notice the different rooflines, entry features, window designs/locations, exterior materials, and colors.

(iii) 

Definition of Different Facade Elevation. In order to qualify as a different facade elevation, buildings shall meet the following criteria:

(A) 

Have different roofline configurations, different color palettes, and different porch/entry designs that meet the requirements of the specific building type and the requirements of Chapter 20.122 POMC.

(B) 

Utilize a minimum of two of the following alternatives:

1. 

Different window openings (location and design).

2. 

One- and two-story buildings.

3. 

Different exterior materials and finishes.

4. 

Different garage location, configuration, and design.

5. 

Other different design element that helps to distinguish one facade elevation from another as determined by the director.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 008-25 § 17 (Exh. P))

§ 20.139.040 Building materials.

§ 20.139.045 Roof design.

This section shall apply to detached houses and middle housing.

(1) 

A variety of articulated roof forms shall be provided for each individual building that emphasize building form to create visual interest to the neighborhood and to avoid a monotonous series of rooflines. Roofs should exhibit variety between different plans by using front-to-rear and side-to-side gabled and hipped roofs, and/or by the introduction of single-story elements. Roof materials, colors and treatments should correspond to the individual character or style of the home and should be compatible with the overall look of the neighborhood.

(2) 

All buildings with pitched roofs shall have a minimum slope of three feet vertical rise for every 12 feet of horizontal run on the primary roof of the building. A continuous pitched street-facing roof plane shall extend no more than 40 linear feet unless it contains roof elements. Roof elements may include at least one of the following:

(a) 

Dormers.

(b) 

Cupolas.

(c) 

Gable or hip projection.

(d) 

Hipped roofs or similar construction is encouraged alongside yards in neighborhoods with closely-adjacent homes to maximize solar access to neighboring homes and/or private open space, as shown below.

Figure 8. Encourage rooflines along the side yard that maximize solar access to adjacent homes and/or private open space.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 008-25 § 17 (Exh. P))

§ 20.139.050 Accessory building standards.

§ 20.139.065 Residential walls and fences standards.

(1) 

General Standards. The following standards shall apply to all residential development:

(a) 

Fences and walls shall either be finished (i.e., without exposed supports or stringers) on both sides, or else shall be installed so that the finished side faces any street.

Figure 10: Fence with finished side facing a street (left); fence finished on both sides (center); fence with finished side not facing a street (right).

(b) 

Fences and walls shall follow the contour of the ground as far as practicable. Fences on sloped ground may be installed on an incline, or may be installed in stepped sections, with or without an accompanying retaining wall; however, inclined fences and stepped fences and/or walls shall have the fence and/or fence section height measured in the same manner as level fences and shall comply with the maximum height restrictions as provided in this section. Adjustments for grade shall occur at the bottom of the fence to every extent possible. See Figure 11.

Figure 11: Fences on slopes.

(c) 

Solid fencing or wall sections more than 200 feet long located along a street shall include architectural features, such as masonry, brick or wood-framed columns to break up the street facing side of the fence. The minimum separation between those features shall be no less than 15 feet.

Examples of acceptable (upper rows) architectural features and unacceptable (bottom row) architectural features are shown in Figure 12.

Figure 12. Fences that are broken up with architectural features (top two rows) and those that are not broken up (bottom row).

(d) 

Approved columns or posts may exceed the height of the fence by one foot and must meet all permit and setback requirements.

(e) 

Fences shall be maintained in good repair. It shall be a violation of the zoning code to allow a fence to fall into disrepair.

(2) 

Fence Height. The following standards shall apply to all residential development:

(a) 

If a minimum linear distance of 10 feet separates a fence and retaining wall, a fence may be erected to a height of six feet above the highest finished grade within the 10-foot distance.

(b) 

All fences in the primary front yard of single-family, duplex and attached residential uses shall not exceed four feet in height and a minimum 35 percent open area (see Figures 13, 14).

Figure 13. Fence type and height – Front vs. side and rear yard.

Figure 14: Fences with at least 35 percent open area – open type fence.

(c) 

All fences in the rear yard, side yard, nonprimary front yard of single-family, duplex, attached residential, and multifamily uses may be solid and shall not exceed six feet in height.

(d) 

A combination fence and retaining wall may be erected to a height of six feet above the highest finished grade or eight feet above the lowest finished grade, at the location of the fence, except that at no time shall the fence portion exceed six feet above the highest finished grade at any point (see Figure 15).

Figure 15: Fence and retaining wall on grade.

(e) 

A retaining wall may not elevate a fence to any height more than allowed by this section.

(f) 

An entry feature or trellis may have a maximum height of 10 feet and maximum width of 10 feet.

(3) 

Fence and Wall Placement. The following standards shall apply to all residential development:

(a) 

No portion of a fence shall extend beyond the property line of the fenced property into the public right-of-way unless allowed by a right-of-way use permit.

(b) 

All fences and walls including fence support systems such as posts, pillars and columns shall be set back at least to the property line and a minimum of two feet from the back edge of the sidewalk to allow for safe passage by persons on a sidewalk or traveled walkway or where no sidewalk exists then two feet behind the edge of asphalt.

(c) 

Vehicular gates must be set back at a minimum 20 feet from the travel surface of the street or back of curb in order to meet vehicle stacking requirements.

(d) 

Gates adjacent to sidewalks, alleys and public rights-of-way shall open inward to the private property.

(e) 

A fence along common property lines may be placed at the furthest point forward of the adjacent property if the adjacent property allows for fence placement that differs from the neighbor's.

(f) 

Solid fences and walls may be erected to a height of eight feet to separate a property from an arterial street or a frontage road adjacent to a highway. The director shall consider the aesthetic, visual, and noise reduction characteristics of the fence or wall. A building permit may be required for fences exceeding six feet in height and for walls.

(g) 

Where a corner lot is permitted to have a solid fence along a nonprimary front property line that coincides with an adjacent property's primary front yard, no fence will be permitted that creates a site distance hazard for vehicles exiting that property or for pedestrians walking along a sidewalk or traveled walkway.

(4) 

Residential Fence and Wall Materials.

(a) 

Approved materials for fence construction include, but are not limited to, commercial quality wood, brick, masonry, metal, stone, wrought iron, manufactured vinyl or PVC fence material or any other material approved by the director, unless otherwise prohibited by this chapter.

(b) 

Barbed wire or razor wire is not allowed on any property used for residential purposes or any property that has residential zoning.

(c) 

Electrical fencing is allowed only on properties where legal agricultural uses exist and shall be used solely for the enclosure of livestock. This provision does not prohibit invisible fences.

(d) 

Combination fences of lattice and other decorative materials may be used in conjunction; however, at no time shall the combination exceed the overall fence height limitation.

(e) 

Prohibited fence materials shall include, but are not limited to, aluminum siding, vehicle parts, smooth face concrete masonry units/blocks, cloth or plastic tarps, scrap wood or any other material not customarily sold for fencing.

(f) 

Plastic or temporary construction fence may not be used as a permanent fence material.

(g) 

Approved materials for wall construction include, but are not limited to: stone, commercial quality brick, decorative masonry units, or decorative concrete or any other material approved by the director unless otherwise prohibited by this chapter.

(Ord. 011-19 § 5 (Exh. 2); Ord. 008-25 § 17 (Exh. P))

§ 20.140.010 Purpose and objectives.

§ 20.140.020 Definitions.

§ 20.140.030 Applicability – Additional regulations.

§ 20.140.040 Decision type.

§ 20.140.050 Administration.

§ 20.140.060 Permit – Form – Exemptions.

§ 20.140.070 Permit – Stormwater drainage permit required – Exemptions.

§ 20.140.080 Permit – Submittal requirements.

§ 20.140.090 Permit – Issuance – Expiration.

§ 20.140.100 Permit – Final approval.

§ 20.140.110 Standards – Generally.

§ 20.140.120 Standards – Timing of work.

§ 20.140.130 Standards – Drainage.

§ 20.140.140 Standards – Grading.

§ 20.140.150 Standards – Erosion control.

§ 20.140.160 Standards – Hazards.

§ 20.140.170 Maintenance.

§ 20.140.180 Permit suspension/revocation.

§ 20.127.010 Purpose.

§ 20.127.020 Applicability and compliance.

(1) 

Applicability. The provisions of this chapter apply to all development within Port Orchard, except:

(a) 

Detached houses and middle housing as defined in Chapters 20.12 and 20.32 POMC shall not be required to comply with this chapter. Design standards for detached houses and middle housing are found in their respective building types in Chapters 20.32 and 20.139 POMC. Subdivision design standards are found in Chapter 20.100 POMC.

(b) 

Properties within the designated Old Clifton Industrial Park. See the figure below for a map clarifying the location of properties which are exempt.

Figure 20.127.020(1) Old Clifton Industrial Park

(c) 

Open-air structures such as pavilions, stages and gazebos for ornamental, performance or recreational use.

(d) 

The director may waive these provisions in other employment – industrial/office zoned properties where they are screened from view from the public right-of-way and adjacent nonemployment – industrial/office properties by a minimum 20-foot-wide landscaped buffer meeting the requirements of Chapter 20.128 POMC – full screening or by preservation of comparable existing landscaping on the site.

(2) 

Relationship to Other Codes and Documents. Where provisions of this chapter conflict with provisions in any other section of the Port Orchard design standards, this chapter prevails unless otherwise noted herein.

(3) 

For building additions, remodels, and site improvements, three different thresholds have been established to gauge how the design standards in this chapter are applied to such projects. See Figure 20.127.020(3) below for examples of site development and the respective types of improvements required under each of the three levels of improvements.

(a) 

Level I improvements include all exterior remodels, building additions, and/or site improvements that affect the exterior appearance of the building/site or cumulatively increase the gross floor area by up to 20 percent of the gross square footage that existed three years prior to the date of permit issuance. The requirement for such improvements is only that the proposed improvements meet the standards and do not lead to further nonconformance with the standards.

For example, if a property owner decides to replace a building facade's siding, then the siding must meet the applicable exterior building material standards, but elements such as building articulation (see POMC § 20.127.430) would not be required.

(b) 

Level II improvements include all improvements that cumulatively increase the gross floor area by 20 percent or more, but not greater than 75 percent, of the gross square footage that existed three years prior to the date of permit issuance. All standards that do not relate to repositioning the building or reconfiguring site development apply to Level II improvements. For example, if a property owner of an existing home in the BP zone wants to convert the home to an office and build an addition equaling 45 percent of the current building's area, then the following elements would apply:

(i) 

The location and design of the addition/remodel must be consistent with the block frontage standards (see Article II of this chapter), to the extent possible given the location of the existing building. For such developments seeking additions to buildings where an off-street parking location currently does not comply with applicable parking location standards, building additions are allowed provided they do not increase any current nonconformity and generally bring the project closer into conformance with the standards. See Figure 20.127.020(3) for an example of this.

(ii) 

Comply with applicable site planning and design elements (see Article III of this chapter).

(iii) 

Comply with all building design provisions of Article IV of this chapter, except architectural scale and materials provisions related to the existing portion of the building where no exterior changes are proposed. The entire building must comply with building elements/details, materials, and blank wall treatment standards of POMC § 20.127.440 through § 20.127.460.

(iv) 

The proposed improvements shall comply with the off-street parking, landscaping, and signage provisions of Chapters 20.124, 20.128, and 20.132 POMC.

(c) 

Level III improvements include all improvements that cumulatively increase the gross floor area by more than 75 percent of the gross square footage that existed three years prior to the date of permit issuance. Such developments must conform to all applicable standards.

Figure 20.127.020(3) Examples of Improvement Types and Required Compliance

(4) 

Review for Compliance. Proposals for development, including design standard departure requests, shall be reviewed for consistency with the design standards as found in this chapter in conjunction with every underlying permit application(s) (i.e., building permit, stormwater drainage permit, conditional use permit, binding site plan, etc.) at each stage of the development. The city recognizes that every project is unique and that permits are not always submitted in a single package simultaneously. For instance, a project may require a conditional use permit, building permit, land disturbing activity permit, and stormwater drainage permit. It is common that a building permit application be submitted after site development activities have begun. It is also common to develop building pads for future construction as part of an approved development.

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 011-19 § 6 (Exh. 3); Ord. 056-19 § 22; Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.030 Optional design review board project recommendation.

§ 20.127.040 Supplemental submittal requirements.

§ 20.127.050 Pre-submittal design review.

§ 20.127.060 Departures.

§ 20.127.100 Purpose.

§ 20.127.110 Applicability and compliance.

§ 20.127.120 How to use this chapter.

(1) 

About the Maps. The maps together with the block frontage standards in POMC § 20.127.150 through § 20.127.250 guide the look and feel of development in commercial and multi-household areas throughout Port Orchard when viewed from the street. The provisions herein recognize that there is a hierarchy of different streets and block frontage types ranging from the pedestrian-oriented storefronts to arterial streets/frontages that warrant greater flexibility in the design of frontages.

The block frontage standards address site planning and building design elements including:

(a) 

Building location and orientation.

(b) 

Parking lot location.

(c) 

Window transparency.

(d) 

Weather protection.

(e) 

Landscaping.

The community design framework maps also identify high visibility street corner sites that warrant special design treatment. Refer to POMC § 20.127.250 for high visibility street corner requirements.

(2) 

Block frontage standards for individual properties depend on the type of street properties front onto. Thus, consider the following steps in using this article:

(a) 

Go to the maps in POMC § 20.127.130 to find the property and the block frontage type designation for the street or streets fronting the property. For properties in residential zones, the standards for landscaped block frontages apply (POMC § 20.127.160). For properties that front onto multiple streets, see POMC § 20.127.240.

(b) 

Table 20.127.120(2) summarizes standards for each of the designated block frontage types. Go to the appropriate section in this article for the detailed and applicable block frontage standards for applicable block frontage type designation.

Table 20.127.120(2) Summary of Block Frontage Types
	Design Cross Section Example	Parking Location	Other Key Provisions
Storefront		• Surface parking lots shall be located to the rear, below, or above storefronts. Parking on the side and front of buildings is prohibited	• Special facade transparency and weather protection provisions • Minimum commercial space depth • No ground floor residential uses except lobbies for upper level units
Landscape		• Parking is preferred to the rear of the building, but is allowed on the side. For multi-building developments, no more than 50 percent of the street frontage may be occupied by parking and drive aisles. Parking in front is prohibited	• Landscaping to soften facades, screen blank wall surfaces, and screen parking • Provide minimum facade transparency for nonresidential uses (variable depending on building setback) • Minimum facade transparency for residential buildings
Varied	Storefront or Landscape
Marine	Storefront or Landscape	• Parking is preferred to the side, above, or below buildings. No more than 50 percent of the street frontage may occupied by parking and drive aisles. However, the city recognizes the challenges of developing waterfront properties as well as the limitations created in the shoreline master program. Therefore, departures to allow parking to be located at the front of buildings (between the building and the street) may be approved provided design features successfully mitigate the visual impacts of the parking area on the streetscape
Gateway		• No parking lot location standards, except a 10-foot buffer of landscaping between the street and off-street parking areas • For multi-building developments, surface and structured parking areas (ground floor) are limited to no more than 60 percent of the street frontage	• Minimum building setback is 25 feet • At least one building entrance must be visible and accessible from the street
Other	Storefront or Landscape	• No parking lot location standards, except a 10-foot buffer of landscaping between the street and off-street parking areas	• Special facade transparency and weather protection provisions • At least one building entrance must be visible and accessible from the street

(3) 

Changes to the block frontage designation for new and existing streets may be made through the following procedures:

(a) 

Text amendment per Chapter 20.06 POMC, Code Amendments.

(b) 

Community design framework master plan per POMC § 20.127.260.

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.130 Community design framework maps.

(1) 

Figure 20.127.130 below is an overview map of the applicable planning areas within Port Orchard. Examine the map to determine which map or figure relates to individual properties.

(2) 

Figures 20.127.130(1) through (16) include community design framework maps for applicable mixed use and nonresidential zones throughout Port Orchard.

Figure 20.127.130 Port Orchard Community Design Framework Maps Index

Figure 20.127.130(1) Map #1 – Downtown West

Figure 20.127.130(2) Map #2 – Downtown East

Figure 20.127.130(3) Map #3 – County Campus

Figure 20.127.130(4) Map #4 – Lower Mile Hill

Figure 20.127.130(5) Map #5 – Upper Mile Hill

Figure 20.127.130(6) Map #6 – Bethel North

Figure 20.127.130(7) Map #7 – Lund Bethel

Figure 20.127.130(8) Map #8 – Bethel South

Figure 20.127.130(9) Map #9 – Sedgwick Bethel SR16

Figure 20.127.130(10) Map #10 – Bethel Cedar

Figure 20.127.130(11) Map #11 – Bethel Lider

Figure 20.127.130(12) Map #12 – Tremont

Figure 20.127.130(13) Map #13 – Cedar Heights

Figure 20.127.130(14) Map #14 – Sidney Glen

Figure 20.127.130(15) Map #15 – Sidney Sedgwick

Figure 20.127.130(16) Map #16 – McCormick Woods

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 028-20 § 7; Ord. 030-21 § 13 (Exh. 5); Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.140 About the transparency standards.

All block frontage designations contain distinct minimum facade transparency standards. The purpose of these standards are to maintain "eyes on the street" for safety and create a welcoming pedestrian environment. Table 20.127.140 below includes details in how they are measured.

Table 20.127.140 Clarification of Transparency Standards
Transparency Zones
Storefront	Ground floor nonresidential and nonstorefront	Residential buildings and residential portions of mixed use buildings
The transparency zone is on the ground floor between 30 inches and 10 feet above sidewalk grade	The transparency zone is between 30 inches and 8 feet above grade	All vertical surfaces of the facade are used in the calculations
Other Transparency Provisions
Windows must be transparent Ground level window area for storefronts and other nonresidential uses that is covered, frosted, or perforated in any manner that obscures visibility into the building must not count as transparent window area. Exception: Window signs conforming with POMC § 20.132.280 may be counted as transparent window area provided the areas generally around the sign are transparent.
Display windows Display window may be used for up to 50 percent of nonresidential transparency requirements provided they are at least 30 inches deep and allow changeable displays. Tack-on display cases as in the far right example don't qualify as transparent window area.	Integrated display windows	Tack-on display cases
Structured parking facilities Where structured parking facilities occupy a portion of the facade, any openings simulating windows may be used to help comply with transparency requirements.	Parking garage with windows	Parking garage without windows

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.150 Storefront block frontage standards.

(1) 

Description/Purpose. Storefront block frontages are the most vibrant and active shopping and dining areas within the city and serve the purpose of attracting pedestrians to enliven the streetscape. Blocks designated as storefront blocks include continuous storefronts placed along the sidewalk edge with small scale shops and/or frequent business entries.

Figure 20.127.150(1)

(2) 

Standards. All development as set forth in POMC § 20.127.130 on sites containing a storefront block frontage designation must comply with the following standards (on applicable block frontages):

Table 20.127.150(2) Storefront Block Frontage Standards
Element	Standards	Examples and Notes
Ground floor
Land use	Nonresidential uses, except for lobbies associated with residential or hotel/motel uses on upper floors.
Floor to ceiling height	Refer to building type (applies to new buildings only).
Retail space depth	20 feet minimum (applies to new buildings only). ⇐
Building placement	Required at front property line/back edge of sidewalk. Additional setbacks are allowed for widened sidewalks, pedestrian-oriented space (POMC § 20.127.350(4)), or where additional future right-of-way acquisition is planned by the city.
Building entrances	Must face the street. For corner buildings, entrances may face the street corner.
Facade transparency	60 percent minimum. ⇐	Also see POMC § 20.127.140 for additional clarification on transparency standards.
Weather protection	Weather protection with 8 to 15 feet vertical clearance at least 6 feet in minimum depth along at least 80 percent of facade. ⇐ Retractable awnings may be used to meet these requirements. Weather protection must not obstruct utility poles or street trees. Weather protection shall comply with WSDOT standards for setback from the face of the curb and may have the effect of reducing the minimum weather protection depth.	For downtown properties on Bay Street and adjacent to the city-owned marquee, new development may utilize the existing marquee (subject to approval by the public works director) or new independent weather protection to meet this provision.
Parking location Also see Chapter 20.124 POMC for related parking requirements	New surface or ground level parking areas must be placed to the side or rear of structures and are limited to 60 feet of street frontage. ⇐ Provide a 6-foot minimum buffer of landscaping between the street and off-street parking areas meeting the standards of Chapter 20.128 POMC. ⇐
Sidewalk width	12 feet minimum between curb edge and storefront, including a minimum walking surface width of 8 feet and a clear/buffer zone with street trees. ⇐

(3) 

Departure Criteria. Departures from the above standards that feature the ⇐ symbol will be considered by the reviewing authority (the director or hearing examiner, as appropriate), provided the alternative proposal meets the purpose of the standards, plus the following criteria:

(a) 

Retail Space Depth. Reduced depths will be considered where the applicant can successfully demonstrate the proposed alternative design and configuration of the space is viable for a variety of permitted retail uses;

(b) 

Facade Transparency. The proposed alternative design treatment of facade area between ground level windows provides visual interest to the pedestrian and mitigates impacts of any blank wall areas. No less than 40 percent of the facade between 30 inches and 10 feet above the sidewalk may be approved with a departure;

(c) 

Weather Protection. Other proposed alternative design treatments must provide equivalent weather protection benefits;

(d) 

Parking Location. There must be an acceptable tradeoff in terms of the amount and quality of storefront area that is integrated with the development and the applicable parking location departure. Plus, the alternative must include design features to successfully mitigate the visual impact of additional parking areas along designated storefront streets; and

(e) 

Sidewalk Width. Alternative designs may be considered where topographical challenges exist. Alternative designs must be able to accommodate safe and comfortable pedestrian traffic anticipated for full block development.

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 033-20 § 11; Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.160 Landscaped block frontage standards.

(1) 

Description/Purpose. The landscaped block frontage designation emphasizes landscaped frontages and clear pedestrian connections between buildings and the sidewalk and serves the purpose of including attractive vegetation within the streetscape. This designation applies to all streets designated landscaped in POMC § 20.127.130, Community design framework maps, and all development in residential zones.

Figure 20.127.160(1) Landscaped Block Frontage Vision and Key Standards

(2) 

Standards. All development as set forth in POMC § 20.127.130 on sites containing a landscaped block frontage designation must comply with the following standards (on applicable block frontages):

Table 20.127.160(2) Landscaped Block Frontage Standards
Element	Standards	Examples and Notes
Building placement	10-foot minimum front setback, except where greater setbacks are specified in the district in Chapter 20.122 POMC or where future right-of-way need and/or acquisitions have been identified in city plans. ➲	See POMC § 20.127.230 for special design provisions associated with ground level residential uses adjacent to a sidewalk.
Building entrances	Building entrances must be visible and directly accessible from the street. ➲ For uses that front on multiple mixed designated block frontages, an entry along both streets is encouraged, but not required.
Facade transparency	25 percent minimum for buildings design with ground level nonresidential uses. ➲ 20 percent minimum for residential uses. ➲ Windows must be provided on all habitable floors of the facade.	Also see POMC § 20.127.140 for additional clarification on transparency standards. Facade transparency example.
Weather protection	Provide weather protection at least three feet deep over primary business and residential entries.
Parking location Also see Chapter 20.124 POMC for related parking requirements.	Parking must be placed to the side, rear, below or above uses. For multi-building developments, surface and structured parking areas (ground floor) are limited to no more than 50 percent of the street frontage. Private or shared garage entries must occupy no more than 50 percent of facade width. Provide a 10-foot minimum buffer of landscaping between the street and off-street parking areas meeting the standards of Chapter 20.128 POMC. ➲
Landscaping Also see Chapter 20.128 POMC for related landscaping standards.	The area between the street and building must be landscaped, private porch or patio space, and/or pedestrian-oriented space. For setbacks adjacent to buildings with windows, provide low level landscaping that maintains views between the building and the street. Also provide plant materials that screen any blank walls and add visual interest at both the pedestrian scale and motorist scale. For extended wall areas, provide for a diversity of plant materials and textures to maintain visual interest from a pedestrian scale.	Example of low level landscaping that screens foundation walls, provides visual interest, and maintains views from dwelling units to the street.
Sidewalk width	Six-foot minimum sidewalks are required. Wider sidewalks may be required where designated in other code sections or in the public works standards.

(3) 

Departure Criteria. Departures from the above standards that feature the ➲ symbol will be considered by the reviewing authority (the director or hearing examiner, as appropriate), provided the alternative proposal meets the purpose of the standards, plus the following criteria:

(a) 

Building Entrances. Block frontages with steep slopes and/or those facing busy arterial streets and very limited pedestrian traffic may warrant some flexibility to this standard (particularly in residential districts).

(b) 

Facade Transparency. The proposed alternative design treatment of facade area between ground level windows provides visual interest to the pedestrian and mitigates impacts of any blank wall areas. No less than 40 percent of the facade between 30 inches and 10 feet above the sidewalk may be approved with a departure.

(c) 

Parking Location. There must be an acceptable tradeoff in terms of the amount and quality of landscaped area that is integrated with the development and the applicable parking location departure. Plus, the alternative must include design features to successfully mitigate the visual impact of additional parking areas along designated landscaped streets.

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 056-19 § 24; Ord. 050-22 § 11; Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.170 Varied block frontage standards.

(1) 

Description/Purpose. The varied block frontage designation serves areas that accommodate a mixture of ground floor uses and allows a diversity of development frontages for the purpose of contributing to the visual character of the street and enhancing the pedestrian environment.

Figure 20.127.170(1) Varied Block Frontage Options and Standards

(2) 

Standards. All development as set forth in POMC § 20.127.130 on sites containing a varied block frontage have the option to comply with either the storefront or landscaped block frontage provisions as set forth above, with the following modifications (on applicable block frontages):

Table 20.127.170(2) Varied Block Frontage Standards
Element	Standards	Examples and Notes
Building placement	Buildings may be placed up to the sidewalk edge provided they meet storefront standards set forth above. 10-foot minimum front setback for other buildings, except where greater setbacks are specified in the district per Chapter 20.122 POMC. ➲ Additional setbacks may be required where future right-of-way need and/or acquisitions have been identified in city plans.	See POMC § 20.127.230 for special design provisions associated with ground level residential uses adjacent to a sidewalk.
Facade transparency	Any storefront buildings on these block frontages must meet the storefront block frontage transparency standards above. ➲ 40 percent minimum for buildings designed with nonresidential uses on the ground floor within 10 feet of sidewalk. ➲ 25 percent minimum for buildings designed with nonresidential uses on the ground floor. ➲ 20 percent minimum for residential buildings. ➲ Windows must be provided on all habitable floors of the facade.	Also see POMC § 20.127.140 for additional clarification on transparency standards. Facade transparency example – nonresidential use. Facade transparency example – residential use.

(3) 

Departure Criteria. Departures from the above standards that feature the ➲ symbol will be considered by the reviewing authority (the director or hearing examiner, as appropriate), provided the alternative proposal meets the purpose of the standards, plus the following criteria:

(a) 

Minimum Setback. For residential uses, provide design treatments that create an effective transition between the public and private realm. This could include a stoop design or other similar treatments that utilize a low fence, retaining wall, and/or hedge along the sidewalk.

Figure 20.127.170(3) Stoop Examples

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 056-19 § 24; Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.180 Marine block frontage standards.

(1) 

Description/Purpose. The marine block frontage designation serves areas that accommodate a mixture of ground floor uses and allows a diversity of development frontages for the purpose of contributing to the visual character of the street and enhancing the pedestrian environment.

(2) 

Standards. All development as set forth in POMC § 20.127.130 on sites containing a marine block frontage have the option to comply with either the storefront or landscaped block frontage provisions as set forth above, with the following modifications (on applicable block frontages). Additionally, all development within the 200-foot shoreline zone must comply with the requirements of the city's shoreline master program, including but not limited to requirements for location (including setbacks from the shoreline), allowable uses within the applicable shoreline environment designation, view protection and public access.

Table 20.127.180(2) Marine Block Frontage Standards
Element	Standards	Examples and Notes
Building placement	Buildings may be placed up to the sidewalk edge provided they meet storefront standards set forth above. 10-foot minimum front setback for other buildings, except where greater setbacks are specified in the district per Chapter 20.122 POMC. ➲ Additional setbacks may be required where future right-of-way need and/or acquisitions have been identified in city plans.	See POMC § 20.127.230 for special design provisions associated with ground level residential uses adjacent to a sidewalk.
Facade transparency	Any storefront buildings on these block frontages must meet the storefront block frontage transparency standards above. ➲ 40 percent minimum for buildings designed with nonresidential uses on the ground floor within 10 feet of sidewalk. ➲ 25 percent minimum for buildings designed with nonresidential uses on the ground floor within 20 feet of the sidewalk. ➲ 20 percent minimum for residential buildings. ➲ Windows must be provided on all habitable floors of the facade.	Also see POMC § 20.127.140 for additional clarification on transparency standards. Facade transparency example – nonresidential use. Facade transparency example – residential use.
Parking location	Parking must be placed to the side, below, or above uses. No more than 50 percent of the street frontage may be occupied by parking and drive aisles. ➲ Parking in the front requires a departure (see subsection (3)(c) of this section). Parking to the rear may only be approved in conjunction with a variance and/or shoreline variance. The construction of any parking within a shoreline area must be consistent with the requirements of the city's shoreline master program. No more than 50 percent of the street frontage may be occupied by parking and drive aisles. A 10-foot minimum buffer of landscaping must be provided between the street and off-street parking areas, which meets the landscaping requirements of Chapter 20.128 POMC. New parking structures must feature landscaped setbacks at least 10 feet in width.

(3) 

Departure Criteria.

(a) 

Minimum Setback. For residential uses, provide design treatments that create an effective transition between the public and private realm. This could include a stoop design or other similar treatments that utilize a low fence, retaining wall, and/or hedge along the sidewalk.

(b) 

Facade Transparency. The proposed alternative design treatment of a facade area between ground level windows shall provide visual interest to the pedestrian and mitigate impacts of any blank wall areas. Up to a 40 percent reduction in the minimum amount of facade transparency may be approved via departure.

(c) 

Parking Location. Parking may be located in front of a building (between a building and an adjacent street) if other parking locations are demonstrated to be infeasible due to topography, property shape or size, or other contextual circumstances. When a departure is requested to allow parking in front of a building, the parking must provide an acceptable tradeoff in terms of the amount and quality of landscaped area that is integrated with the development and must include design features to successfully mitigate the visual impact of additional parking areas along the street.

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 056-19 § 24; Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.190 Gateway block frontage standards.

(1) 

Description/Purpose. The gateway block frontage designation serves strategic areas fronted by highways or other high visibility arterials that feature heavy vehicular traffic. These standards serve the purpose of providing attractive landscaped frontages, limiting the extent of visible surface parking, and accommodating the needs of pedestrians.

Figure 20.127.190(1) Gateway Block Frontage Vision

(2) 

Standards. All development as set forth in POMC § 20.127.130 on sites containing the gateway block frontage designation must comply with the landscaped block frontage provisions as set forth above, with the following modifications:

Table 20.127.190(2) Gateway Frontage Standards
Element	Standards	Examples and Notes
Building placement	The minimum setback for buildings is 25 feet. ➲
Building entrances	At least one (publicly accessible for commercial buildings) building entrance must be visible and directly accessible from the street. ➲
Parking location	Parking must be placed to the side, rear, below or above uses. ➲ For multi-building developments, surface parking and the ground floor of structured parking areas are limited to no more than 60 percent of the street frontage. ➲ A 25-foot buffer of landscaping between the street and off-street parking areas meeting the performance standards of Chapter 20.128 POMC. ➲

(3) 

Departure Criteria. See the departure criteria for landscaped frontages, POMC § 20.127.160(3).

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.200 Internal roadway storefront frontage standards.

(1) 

Description/Purpose. The internal roadway storefront block frontage designation is intended to apply to some existing commercial storefront areas that are located on internal roadways or parking lots. The purpose of this designation is to reinforce and enhance the storefront environment if and when changes occur over time.

Figure 20.127.200(1) Internal Roadway Storefront Frontage Vision

(2) 

Standards. Development as set forth in POMC § 20.127.130 on sites containing the internal roadway storefront block frontage designation must comply with the storefront block frontage standards as set forth above, with only the following modifications:

Table 20.127.200(2) Internal Roadway Storefront Block Frontage Standards
Element	Standards
Facade transparency	At least 50 percent of ground floor between 30 inches and 10 feet above the sidewalk. ➲
Landscaping	Trees must be integrated along the sidewalk every 50 feet of lineal frontage on average. Trees may be in tree grates or in planting strips.
Sidewalk width	12 feet minimum between curb edge and storefront, including a minimum walking surface width of 8 feet and a clear/buffer zone with street trees. ➲

(3) 

Departure Criteria. See the departure criteria for storefront frontages, POMC § 20.127.150(3).

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.210 Other block frontage standards.

§ 20.127.220 Trail/park frontage standards.

Trails referenced in the community design framework maps in POMC § 20.127.130 aligned adjacent to a street are subject to the applicable block frontage designation for the street. For trails referenced in the community design framework maps that are not adjacent to streets, developments fronting such trails must comply with the other block frontage standards set forth in POMC § 20.127.210.

Figure 20.127.220 Trail/Park Frontage Examples

The development in the left image includes a courtyard that orients towards the trail. The low fence allows visibility between the uses, yet divides public and private space in an acceptable manner. The right image illustrates an active commercial use fronting on the trail.

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.230 Special residential frontage standards along sidewalks and internal walkways.

For residences with ground floor living spaces facing a sidewalk or pedestrian path in a residential or mixed use development, the building must feature at least one of the public/private space transition elements described below. The objective of this standard is to ensure privacy and security for residents, and an attractive and safe walkway that complements the qualities of the adjoining residences within a residential complex.

(1) 

Raised Deck or Porch Option. Provide at least a 60-square-foot porch or deck raised at least one foot above grade. The porch or deck must be at least six feet wide, measured perpendicular to the building face. (The deck may be recessed into the unit floor plan so that deck does not extend from the building face a full six feet.) A low fence, rail or hedge, two feet to four feet high, may be integrated between the sidewalk or internal walkway and deck or porch.

(2) 

Front Setback Options. Provide a minimum 10-foot setback between the sidewalk or internal walkway and the face of the residence. Design options for the front setback:

(a) 

Landscaped area, meeting the provisions of Chapter 20.128 POMC.

(b) 

Semi-private patio space screened by a low fence or hedge (see Chapter 20.128 POMC, Development Standards – Landscaping).

(3) 

Raised Ground Floor. If the residence's ground floor is a minimum of three feet above the grade adjacent to the building, then the landscaped area in subsection (2)(b) of this section may be reduced to four feet wide (except where greater setbacks are specified for the applicable zoning district in Chapter 20.122 POMC).

Departures: Other transition design measure that adequately protects the privacy and comfort of the residential unit and the attractiveness and usefulness of the walkway at least as effectively as subsections (1) through this subsection (3).

See Figure 20.127.230 below for examples of the above treatments.

Figure 20.127.230 Acceptable Public/Private Transitional Space Design between Sidewalk or Walkways and Ground Level Residential Units.

The upper left image uses a low fence and landscaped setback. The right images use landscaped terraces and elevated ground level units. The lower left image uses a landscaped berm between the walkway and semi-private open space.

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.240 Where a property fronts onto multiple streets/frontage designations.

Where a property fronts onto more than one street and each street has a different frontage designation, each building frontage must comply with the standards for the block frontage upon which it fronts, with the following clarifications:

(1) 

Where a conflict exists between frontage standards, the review authority will apply the standards of a block frontage pursuant to the following order of preference:

(a) 

Storefront.

(b) 

Varied.

(c) 

Marine.

(d) 

Landscaped.

(e) 

Gateway.

(f) 

Other.

Subsections (2) through (5) of this section clarify how the order of preference works for particular frontage elements.

(2) 

Building Location. For corner sites with landscaped block frontage on one street and storefront or varied on another, a storefront frontage may wrap around the corner (on the landscaped block frontage side) for up to a half block width or no more than 120 feet (whichever is more).

(3) 

Entrances. For corner sites, entrances on both streets are encouraged, but only one entrance is required. For corner sites with frontage on a storefront block frontage on one side, an entrance must be placed on the storefront block frontage side. For corner sites with a mix of designations that do not include a storefront block frontage, the entry must be placed in the order of preference identified above.

Departures may be considered, provided the location and design of the entry and block frontage treatments are compatible with the character of the area and enhance the character of the street.

(4) 

Transparency. For corner sites at least one block frontage must meet the applicable transparency standards (based on the order of preference above). For the second block frontage, the review authority may approve a reduction in the minimum amount of transparency by 50 percent. For street corners with the same designations on both frontages, buildings must employ the full transparency on the dominant frontage (based on the frontage width or established neighborhood pattern).

(5) 

Parking. Surface parking (including ground floor parking in a structure) adjacent to a street corner is not allowed, except:

(a) 

Corner lots with nondesignated frontages (other) on both streets.

(b) 

Other combination of block frontages, except those with a storefront designation, via a departure and subject to the applicable departure criteria.

Figure 20.127.240 Clarifying Block Frontage Standards on Street Corners

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.250 High visibility street corners.

(1) 

Description/Purpose. The high visibility street corner requirements apply to those sites designated as such on the community design framework maps in POMC § 20.127.130. The purpose is to accentuate street corners with high visibility to the public.

(2) 

Designation Criteria. High visibility street corners may be designated in:

(a) 

Special high visibility intersections in business districts.

(b) 

Intersections with a high level of pedestrian activity.

(c) 

Special high visibility gateway intersections leading into the city or a particular business district.

(d) 

Existing or planned intersections that are intended to become the focal point of a particular business district or neighborhood center.

(3) 

Standards. Sites located on high visibility street corners must meet the following requirements:

(a) 

Buildings must be located within 20 feet of the street corner.

(b) 

At least one of the following special features must be included (Figure 20.127.250 below illustrates acceptable examples):

(i) 

Corner plaza.

(ii) 

Cropped building corner with a special entry feature.

(iii) 

Decorative use of building materials at the corner.

(iv) 

Distinctive facade articulation.

(v) 

Sculptural architectural element.

(vi) 

Other decorative elements that meet the purpose of the standards.

Figure 20.127.250 Acceptable High Visibility Street Corner/Gateway Site Examples

Building 1 includes a corner tower. Building 2 features cropped building corners with decorative elements. Building 3 uses a decorative canopy. Building 4 uses a change in building materials and facade articulation at the corner. Building 5 incorporates a plaza at the corner.

Image 6 shows a decorative landscaped area with a trellis and neighborhood gateway sign.

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.260 Community design framework master plan.

Recently annexed or rezoned commercial or mixed use properties along with large undeveloped sites necessitate a different approach to applying block frontage standards. The provisions below identify the purpose, applicable sites, block frontage designation options, and special standards for developing community design framework master plans. Such master plans are also an option for property owners to change designations on existing community design framework maps (POMC § 20.127.130).

(1) 

Purpose.

(a) 

To provide a thoughtful and fair process to plan for the development of large and new commercial and mixed use sites consistent with Port Orchard's comprehensive plan.

(b) 

To promote the arrangement of streets, buildings, open space, parking and service areas that creates a strong sense of community and enhances the character of Port Orchard.

(c) 

To avoid uncoordinated patterns of development that waste valuable land, compromise vehicular and pedestrian access, and degrade the character of Port Orchard.

(2) 

Applicable Sites.

(a) 

Recently annexed sites zoned as one of the commercial or mixed use zoning districts.

(b) 

Sites recently rezoned to one of the commercial or mixed use zoning districts that are not addressed in the community design framework maps in POMC § 20.127.130.

(3) 

Block Frontage Designations Options.

(a) 

Prior to site development of applicable sites, a community design framework master plan must be developed, approved and adopted into the Port Orchard comprehensive plan per the procedures set forth in Chapter 20.04 POMC, Comprehensive Plan Amendments. The master plans must include:

(i) 

New streets and internal roadways along with block frontage designations (types included in this section).

(ii) 

Any designated high visibility street corners.

(iii) 

Any planned open spaces, trails, and shared use paths.

(iv) 

Any special phasing conditions.

(v) 

Other special design conditions unique to the site and plan that must be implemented with future site plan development.

(b) 

Community design framework master plans may utilize any existing block frontage designations that border the site, or include an alternative block frontage designation type or types, subject to master plan approval.

(c) 

Alternatively, site plan development may occur on applicable sites without an approved and recorded community design framework master plan provided all block frontages comply with the standards for varied block frontages as set forth in subsection (4) of this section.

(4) 

Design Standards. Community design framework master plans must meet the purpose as set forth above plus the following parameters for specific sites:

Table 20.127.260(4) Community Design Framework Master Plan Design Standards
The provisions below are intended to guide the design of individual community design framework master plans. They are referred to as standards, since all proposed plans must successfully demonstrate how they comply with the provisions herein.
All Sites	• Configure site to create a pedestrian-oriented focal point. Such a focal point could be a main street (storefront), a central square surrounded by storefronts or other similar features. • Larger sites have greater expectations in the amount of storefront designated frontages. • Goals, policies and concepts from adopted plans must be used to help determine compliance with these standards.

Figure 20.127.260(4) Development Examples

Examples of commercial centers configured to create a pedestrian-oriented focal point. Parking areas are carefully located to provide convenience while minimizing impacts to the visual and pedestrian environment.

(5) 

Review Process and Application Requirements.

(a) 

Community design framework master plans must be processed as a Type II decision set forth in POMC § 20.22.040.

(b) 

Community design framework master plans are subject to application requirements set forth in Chapter 20.24 POMC. Supplemental application submittal requirements include:

(i) 

A conceptual site development plan that identifies the following elements (if applicable):

(A) 

Proposed new public and private streets (including any public rights-of-way).

(B) 

Proposed block frontage designations.

(C) 

Proposed land use(s) concept (to the extent anticipated or desired).

(D) 

Proposed nonmotorized circulation elements.

(E) 

Proposed pedestrian-oriented focal point and/or other open spaces or recreational features.

(F) 

Critical areas and buffers.

(G) 

Utility areas.

(H) 

Proposed or potential development phases.

(ii) 

Other information as necessary to support compliance with the design standards set forth in subsection (4) of this section.

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.300 Purpose.

§ 20.127.310 Applicability and compliance.

§ 20.127.320 Relationship to adjacent properties.

(1) 

Purpose.

(a) 

To promote the functional and visual compatibility between developments.

(b) 

To protect the privacy of residents on adjacent properties.

(2) 

Balconies Adjacent to Side Property Lines Abutting Residentially Zoned Properties. Balconies or rooftop decks within 15 horizontal feet of a side and rear property line abutting a residentially zoned property must feature a railing system that is at least 50 percent opaque. Specifically, 50 percent of the area below the railing must be a sight-obscuring structure.

Departures will be allowed where it is determined that the proposed design will not create a compatibility problem in the near- and long-term based on the unique site context.

Figure 20.127.320(2) Privacy Standards for Balconies within 15 Feet of Side Property Lines

(3) 

Light and Air Access and Privacy Along the Side and Rear Property Lines. Buildings or portions thereof containing multi-household dwelling units whose only solar access (windows) is from the applicable side of the building (facing towards the side property line) must be set back from the applicable side or rear property lines at least 15 feet. See Figures 20.127.320(2) and (3).

Departures will be allowed where it is determined that the proposed design will not create a compatibility problem in the near- and long-term based on the unique site context.

Figure 20.127.320(3) Solar Access and Privacy Standards for Multi-Household Residential Buildings along Side/Rear Property Lines

Where side setbacks are required.

Where there are no side setbacks and where windowless firewalls may be built up to the property line.

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.330 Nonmotorized circulation and design.

(1) 

Purpose.

(a) 

To improve the pedestrian and bicycling environment by making it easier, safer, and more comfortable to walk or ride among residences, to businesses, to the street sidewalk, to transit stops, through parking lots, to adjacent properties, and to connections throughout the city.

(b) 

To enhance access to on- and off-site areas and pedestrian/bicycle paths.

(2) 

Access to Sidewalk. All buildings must feature pedestrian connections to a sidewalk per applicable block frontage standards in Article II of this chapter. See subsection (4) of this section for access design requirements.

Figure 20.127.330(2) Examples of Direct Pedestrian Access to Buildings from the Street

(3) 

Internal Circulation.

(a) 

For sites with multiple buildings, pedestrian paths or walkways connecting businesses and/or residential entries on the same development site must be provided. Routes that minimize walking distances and minimize conflict between pedestrians and traffic at all points of pedestrian access must be utilized to the extent practical.

Departures will be allowed where steep slopes prevent a direct connection or where an indirect route would enhance the design and/or use of a common usable open space. See subsection (4) of this section for walkway design standards.

Figure 20.127.330(3)(a) Internal and External Pedestrian Connections Are Important

(b) 

Sites With Residential Units. Provide direct pedestrian access between all ground related unit entries and a public street or to a walkway network or open space that has direct access to a public street. Residential developments must provide a pedestrian circulation network that connects all main entrances on the site to other areas of the site, such as:

(i) 

Parking areas.

(ii) 

Recreational areas.

(iii) 

Common outdoor areas.

(iv) 

Any pedestrian amenities.

For residential units fronting the street, the sidewalk may be used to meet this standard.

Figure 20.127.330(3)(b)(i) Direct Walkways Between the Street and Dwelling Units Are Required

The entries of the example on the left connect directly to a public sidewalk while the entries in the right example connect to a common path that extends to the sidewalk.

Figure 20.127.330(3)(b)(ii) Examples of Attractive Pedestrian Connection Through a Residential Development

(c) 

Crosswalks are required when a walkway crosses an on-site paved area accessible to vehicles. Crosswalks must contain contrasting material (such as concrete) and/or patterns (such as stamped asphalt), excluding painted surfaces.

(d) 

Pedestrian Walkways Through Parking Lots. Developments with 20 parking spaces or more must provide specially marked or paved walkways through parking areas. Pedestrian walkways across parking areas shall be located as either one of the following:

(i) 

At least one walkway must be provided every two rows of parking or at a maximum spacing of 200 feet. The walkways must provide a safe connection to the building entrance and meet the walkway design standards set forth in subsection (4) of this section.

(ii) 

Walkways running perpendicular to the parking rows shall be no further apart than 25 parking spaces.

See examples below.

Figure 20.127.330(3)(d) Parking Area Walkway Standards and Examples

Note the location of the parking lot walkway in the upper right example (connecting shops in one building to the main entry of a grocery store).

Note in both examples that the concrete walkway extends into the vehicular area to provide a highly visible and safe crosswalk.

(e) 

Connections to Adjacent Properties (Including Parks and Trails). Except for when adjacent properties have less than five dwelling units, provide pedestrian walkways that connect to adjacent properties. Public sidewalks in the right-of-way shall not count toward this requirement.

Departures will be allowed where it is determined that internal connections are not necessary or practical due to shallow lot depths, steep slopes, or other contextual challenges.

(f) 

Barriers that limit future pedestrian access are prohibited. Gates that limit access to employees are permitted. See subsection (4) of this section for walkway design standards.

(4) 

Walkway Design.

(a) 

All internal pedestrian walkways must have a minimum five-foot-wide unobstructed walking surface, except where wider walkways are prescribed in this article or where the applicable uses and context dictate wider walkways.

(b) 

Where parking is adjacent to perpendicular or angled parking and does not utilize wheel stops as described in POMC § 20.124.100, an extra two feet of walkway width must be provided to mitigate for parked vehicles overhanging the walkway.

(c) 

Pedestrian walks must be separated from structures at least three feet for landscaping except where the adjacent building facade meets the storefront block frontage standards per POMC § 20.127.120(2).

Departures will be considered where other landscaping and/or facade design treatments to provide attractive walkways are proposed. Examples include sculptural, mosaic, bas-relief artwork, or other decorative treatments that meet the purpose. Figure 20.127.330(4)(c) below provides one example.

Figure 20.127.330(4)(c) Standards for Internal Walkways Adjacent to Buildings

Internal walkways adjacent to building walls that do not meet storefront facade standards must provide at least three feet of landscaping to enhance the character of the walkway. The reviewing authority will consider alternative treatments, such as decorative walls (right example).

(d) 

Walkway design where multi-tenant commercial or mixed use buildings 100 feet or more in length abut parking lots. Such walkways must feature a 12-foot-wide sidewalk with:

(i) 

Eight feet minimum unobstructed width.

(ii) 

Trees, as approved by the director or hearing examiner, placed at an average of 50 feet on-center and placed in grates or in planting strips as set forth in subsection (4)(d)(iii) of this section.

Departure: Breaks in the tree coverage will be allowed near major building entries to enhance visibility.

(iii) 

Planting strips may be used between any vehicle access or parking area and the walkway; provided, that the trees required above are included and the walkway meets the applicable width standards herein and the combined walkway and planting strip is at least 12 feet wide.

(iv) 

See also POMC § 20.127.340(4), internal roadway design.

Figure 20.127.330(4)(d) Example of a Successful Pedestrian Sidewalk Between Parking Lot and Storefront

(Ord. 008-18 § 2 (Exh. 1); Ord. 050-22 § 12; Ord. 008-25 § 16 (Exh. O))

§ 20.127.340 Vehicular circulation and parking.