Ritzville City Zoning Code
Division III
Development Standards
§ 11.85.010 Title.
§ 11.85.020 Application.
§ 11.85.030 Purpose.
The provision of alleys, off-street parking and loading space in accordance with the needs and requirements of particular propertyuses is necessary to promote traffic safety, minimize congestion, and create harmonious development.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.011, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.85.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.85.050 General provisions.
Where the parking requirements for a use are not specifically defined in this chapter, the parking requirements for such use shall be determined by the Administrator, and such determination shall be based upon the requirements for the most comparable use defined in this chapter. Alleys shall be designed to prevent cross lot drainage of storm water.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.012, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.85.060 Vision clearance at intersections.
No fence, wall, structure, bush or foliage shall be erected or placed or be allowed to grow or be maintained at a height of over three feet above the established top of any curb grade on any public or privately owned land, in any residentially zoned area, within an area having a direct base line as follows:
A.
Street Intersections. Intersecting two street lines at points 25 feet from the intersection of such street lines or such street lines produced;
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.013, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.85.070 Parking spaces required.
A.
Whenever a building is enlarged or altered, or whenever the use of a building or property is changed, off-street parking shall be provided for such expansions, enlargement, or change in use in accordance with the requirements of this title unless such building or property is within the Mixed Use (MU) zone. Required parking requirements in the MU zone must be provided in accordance with RCC § 11.36.080.
B.
2.
Each off-street parking space shall be a minimum of 20 feet in length and nine feet in width for a standard space and 18 feet in length and eight feet in width for a compact space.
3.
Except for one-dwelling and two-dwelling units, groups of more than two parking spaces shall be located and served by a driveway that will require no backing movements or other maneuvering within a street or right-of-way other than an alley.
4.
Required parking shall not be located in a required front or required side yard along flanking street on corner lots.
C.
Where parking is provided off site, the distance shall be measured from the closest point of the parking area or lot to the closest point of the nearest building that such parking area or lot is required to serve. Off-street parking facilities shall be located in accordance with the following:
2.
For middle housing units, multiple-family dwellings, affordable housing units, manufactured housing communities, or boardinghouses: within 200 feet of the building it serves.
D.
Trailers, boats, campers, mobile homes, travel trailers and similar vehicles shall not be parked within 10 feet of the pavement edge.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.014, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.85.080 Size and location of parking spaces.
Land Use | Parking Requirement |
|---|---|
Residential units within the Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HP) | No space requirement. Changing or altering off-street parking within the Historic Preservation Overlay Zone must be reviewed and approved by the Ritzville Historic Preservation Commission (RHPC). |
Middle housing types (not including duplexes) | One space per dwelling unit. |
Affordable housing types | One space per dwelling unit. |
Single-family residences | Two spaces per dwelling unit. |
Duplexes | Two spaces per dwelling unit. |
Senior housing developments | One space per unit. |
Manufactured housing community | One space for each manufactured housing unit. |
Auto court, motel, tourist home or boardinghouse | One space per sleeping unit, guestroom, or suite plus one for each full-time employee. |
One space per room plus one additional space per full-time employee. In addition, one space per 20 units. | |
Hospital, nursing home or institution | One space for each four beds plus one for each full-time employee, to be calculated using the maximum day shift count. |
Elementary and junior high schools | Two spaces per classroom. |
High schools | Six spaces per classroom. |
Library, art gallery, museum | One space per 250 square feet. |
Theater | One space for each four seats, except one space for each six seats in excess of 800 seats plus one for each full-time employee. |
Church, auditorium, or similar place of assembly | One space for each four seats; each 20 inches of bench seating shall count as one space. |
Medical or dental clinic | One space for each 250 square feet plus one for each full-time employee, to be calculated using the maximum day shift count. |
Bank, business or professional office with on-site customer service | One space for each 300 square feet plus one for each full-time employee. |
Warehouse, storage, or wholesale business | One space for each 1,000 square feet. |
Food and beverage place with sales and consumption on premises | One space for each four seats plus one for each two employees. |
Grocery store | One space for each 100 square feet plus one for each two employees. |
Furniture, appliance, hardware, clothing, shoe or personal service store | One space for each 500 square feet of gross floor area plus one for each full-time employee. |
Motor vehicles, machinery, plumbing, heating, ventilating, building supply stores or services | One space for each 1,000 square feet of gross floor area, exclusive of displays and one for each employee. |
Manufacturing uses and all industries | One space for each two employees based on the maximum employment in any one shift with a minimum of two spaces. |
One space for each recreational vehicle space plus one guest space for each three recreational vehicle spaces. |
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.015, 2001; Ord. 1029 § 6, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.85.090 Development and maintenance of parking facilities.
§ 11.85.100 Loading space required.
A.
In all districts, buildings or structures to be built which receive and distribute material and merchandise by truck shall provide and maintain one off-street loading berth for each 20,000 square feet of gross floor area or fraction thereof, which space shall be of sufficient length and width to accommodate the largest vehicle loading or unloading, but in no case less than 10 feet in width and 25 feet in length and 14 feet in height.
C.
No off-street loading area shall be located in a required front yard.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.017, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.90.010 Title.
§ 11.90.020 Application.
§ 11.90.030 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish landscape, screening, and property maintenance standards to enhance the aesthetic appearance of commercial and industrial property throughout the city. In addition, the standards are established to protect the health and safety of the residents and users of the properties. A landscape plan and maintenance schedule are required as part of the review process.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.021, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.90.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.90.050 Landscape screening.
B.
Perimeter screening shall be provided as follows:
1.
An all-season visual separation and windbreak shall be provided between commercial uses when adjacent to a residential use or district. Perimeter landscaping shall be provided along the side and rear property lines and shall shield the views of industrial or commercial land uses, including outdoor storage, service, parking and loading areas, from roads and adjacent uses. If, however, the rear of the site is adjacent to an agricultural use, no rear yard perimeter screening is required.
2.
A 50-foot-wide minimum vegetative buffer strip shall be provided between an industrial use and a residential district. The vegetative buffer shall consist of trees that attain a minimum of seven feet in height. Additional screening may be required between dissimilar land uses, at the discretion of the planning commission.
5.
Screening requirements may be relaxed if warranted by the use of clustering or shared access, at the discretion of the planning commission.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.022, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.90.060 Landscape materials and design requirements.
§ 11.90.070 Maintenance.
A.
Provisions shall be made for the continuing maintenance, including irrigation as necessary, of required landscape areas.
E.
All undeveloped land areas shall be maintained in permanent vegetative cover, or alternatively be landscaped with an approved combination of materials to control runoff.
G.
All alleys shall be maintained by the abutting property owner. The owner of the abutting property is responsible for the area between the abutting property extending to the centerline of the alley. If the alley area is not shared with an adjacent property, the propertyowner is responsible for the full width of the alley. Alleys shall be:
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.024, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.010 Title.
This chapter shall be called "Accessory Structures."
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.020 Application.
This chapter shall apply to all accessory structures in the city.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.030 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish standards for the siting, installation, and usage of accessory structures throughout the city and ensure compatibility with surrounding uses.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.050 Accessory dwelling unit (ADU) exemptions.
§ 11.95.060 Lot areas and setbacks.
A.
Accessory structures, whether attached or detached, shall occupy no more than 24% of the lot area. Accessory structures exceeding 200 square feet or 11 feet in height shall require a building permit.
B.
An accessory structure shall comply with the front and side yardsetbacks required in the district in which the structure is located. If minimum setbacks are not required in the underlying district or zone, an accessory structure shall be at least five feet from any lot line.
C.
An accessory structure may be located in a required rear yard but shall be at least five feet from any lot line.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.030, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2116 § 2, 2018; Ord. 2149 § 1, 2021; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.070 Storage on residential use properties.
A.
Accessory storage buildings such as garages, sheds, and greenhouses shall be permitted on property in any residential or mixed use zone of the city, or on property the primary use of which is residential. Cargo containers, storage pods, railroad cars, truck vans, converted mobile homes, travel trailers, recreational vehicles, bus bodies, vehicles, and similar prefabricated items and structures originally built for purposes other than the storage of goods and materials are not permitted to be used as accessory storage buildings on property zoned residential or mixed use, or on property the primary use of which is residential.
1.
In the case of a mixed use property in which the primary use is not residential, items and structures originally built for purposes other than the storage of goods and materials are permitted to be used as accessory storage buildings.
B.
Notwithstanding the provisions set forth in RCC § 11.95.110, Storage pods – Temporary use, the temporary placement of storage pods on residentially zoned properties, or on properties the primary use of which is residential, for the limited purpose of loading and unloading household contents shall be permitted for a period of time not exceeding 60 days in any one calendar year, provided the placement is preceded by the application, review, and approval of a temporary use permit.
C.
Notwithstanding the provisions set forth in RCC § 11.95.100, Cargo containers – Temporary use, and § 11.145.050, Review process, licensed and bonded contractors may use cargo containers for the temporary location of equipment and/or materials during construction, which is taking place on the property where the cargo container is located, if the use of the cargo container is authorized pursuant to a city building permit for a maximum period of 180 days.
D.
Temporary use cargo containers and storage pods are to remain primitive and not be connected to utility services, not limited to water, sewer, gas, and electric.
(Ord. 2149 § 1, 2021; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.080 Cargo containers – Permitted locations.
B.
The placement of cargo containers is further limited to properties in the above-identified zones only if the property upon which the cargo container is proposed to be located is not primarily used for residential purposes.
(Ord. 2116 § 2, 2018; Ord. 2149 § 1, 2021; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.090 Permit required – Development standards.
A.
A building permit is required prior to placement of a cargo container larger than 150 square feet in area, ensuring effective anchoring/foundation according to the most current edition of the International BuildingCode at the time of permit approval. The application shall show the proposed cargo container is accessory to the permitted use of the property and meets the placement criteria for the zone.
B.
Cargo containers shall meet the setback requirements of the underlying zone and shall be placed five feet apart. If minimum setbacks are not required in the underlying zone, a cargo container shall be at least five feet from any lot line.
C.
Cargo containers shall not be stacked above the height of a single container device.
D.
Cargo containers shall not be used for any advertising purpose and shall be kept clean of all alphanumeric signage and writing.
E.
As a condition of placement, cargo containers may be required to be fenced or screened from abutting properties and/or rights-of-way pursuant to the provisions of the underlying zoning regulations.
F.
Cargo containers shall be in an approved designated area on the same property as the primary use, and shall be included in the calculation of overall lot coverage.
G.
Cargo containers shall not occupy required off-street parking, loading, or landscaping areas. In the event of an emergency, cargo containersshall be allowed to temporarily occupy these areas to protect the health, safety, and welfare of persons and property, and provide emergency assistance.
H.
Materials stored within cargo containers are subject to review and approval by the fire chief.
I.
Cargo containers are to remain primitive and not be connected to utility services, not limited to water, sewer, gas, and electric.
(Ord. 2149 § 1, 2021; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.100 Cargo containers – Temporary use.
A.
Cargo containers may be used for temporary storage of equipment and/or materials at a construction site that is authorized by a city temporary use permit for a maximum period of 180 consecutive days.
1.
The cargo containers shall not be stacked.
2.
Material storage within cargo containers is subject to review and approval by the fire chief.
3.
Cargo containers are to remain primitive and not be connected to utility services, not limited to water, sewer, gas, and electric.
B.
Cargo containers shall not occupy required off-street parking, loading, or landscaping areas. In the event of an emergency, cargo containersshall be allowed to temporarily occupy these areas to protect the health, safety, and welfare of persons and property, and provide emergency assistance.
(Ord. 2149 § 1, 2021; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.110 Storage pods – Temporary use.
A.
Storage pods, up to 16 feet, will be authorized by a city temporary use permit for a maximum period of 60 days.
(Ord. 2116 § 2, 2018; Ord. 2149 § 1, 2021; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.120 Temporary use permit – Review process.
A.
Any person, firm, or corporation may submit an application for a City of Ritzville temporary use permit. A temporary use permit application shall include the following and shall be submitted to the city clerk:
B.
A temporary use permit shall be obtained from the City of Ritzville clerk prior to the arrival of the cargo container or storage pod on the site.
C.
A temporary use permit will be issued for a maximum period of 180 consecutive days for cargo containers, and a maximum of 60 days for storage pods.
(Ord. 2116 § 2, 2018; Ord. 2149 § 1, 2021; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.130 Current violations – Time to comply.
All owners of property within the city shall have 120 days from the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter and other currently existing provisions of the Ritzville City Code or other ordinances of the city, the terms and provisions of this chapter shall take precedence and to the extent of any such conflict, the terms and conditions of any existing provisions of the Ritzville City Code or other ordinances of the city shall be and hereby are amended insofar as necessary to conform to the provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. 2149 § 1, 2021; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.140 Conflicts.
In the event any conflict exists between the provisions of this chapter and other currently existing provisions of the Ritzville City Code or other ordinances of the city, the terms and provisions of this chapter shall take precedence and to the extent of any such conflict, the terms and conditions of any existing provisions of the Ritzville City Code or other ordinances of the city shall be and hereby are amended insofar as necessary to conform to the provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. 2149 § 1, 2021; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.95.150 Violation – Penalty.
Any person, firm or corporation who violates, disobeys, omits, neglects, or refuses to comply with or who resists the enforcement of this chapter shall be subject to a civil fine of not more than $500 for each violation. Each day that a violation is permitted to exist shall constitute a separate offense.
(Ord. 2116 § 2, 2018; Ord. 2149 § 1, 2021; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.100.020 Application.
§ 11.100.030 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to provide standards for the installation and maintenance of needed utility facilities in order to provide a safe and efficient municipal service system while ensuring compatibility with surrounding uses.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.041, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.100.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.100.050 Standards.
B.
Safety fencing, a minimum of six feet in height, shall be erected and maintained around utility installations and structures in which there is any safety hazard whatsoever for children. All structuresshall be located such that the safety fence does not encroach on any yard requirements in the district in which the use is located.
E.
No objectionable odor is permitted.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.042, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.105.010 Title.
This chapter shall be called "Home Occupations."
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.105.020 Application.
This chapter shall apply to all home occupations and permits throughout the city.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.105.030 Purpose.
The provision for home occupations is to allow for gainful employment within the home while maintaining the residential character of the dwelling and surrounding neighborhood.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.051, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.105.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.105.050 Standards.
A.
Home occupations may be conducted in any zoning district, provided that the home occupation complies with the following standards:
1.
The home occupation shall be conducted entirely within the residence or lawfully erected and maintained accessory structure(s).
3.
No alteration to the appearance of the dwelling unit shall be made which is nonresidential in nature.
5.
The home occupation shall not generate vehicular traffic which will interfere with residential traffic circulation, nor shall it cause more than four vehicles including vehicles used by customers, vendors or delivery services to visit the premises per day.
6.
The home occupation shall not create or cause hazards or nuisances due to noise, dust, vibration, odors, smoke, glare, electrical interference, or other adverse impacts.
7.
The home occupation shall not involve the use or storage of explosive, toxic, combustible or flammable materials in a quantity that exceeds the amounts incidental to normal residential use.
B.
The number of home occupations at any one address is not limited, except that the cumulative impact of all such businesses shall not exceed the standards in this section.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.052, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.110.010 Title.
This chapter shall be called "Projections – Exceptions."
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.110.020 Application.
This chapter shall apply to all projections within the city.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.110.030 Purpose.
This chapter is intended to uniformly regulate all projections within the city.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.110.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.110.050 Standards.
§ 11.118.010 Title.
This chapter shall be called "Tree Standards."
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.118.020 Application.
This chapter provides full power and authority over all trees, plants and shrubs located within street rights-of-way, parks and public places of the city. Private trees within the city are only regulated to the extent that they constitute a hazard or threat or with respect to topping trees or as described herein.
(Ord. 2085 § 2, 2015; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.118.030 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish regulations for planting, care and maintenance of trees within the city, and promote good health and stewardship on both public and private property.
(Ord. 2085 § 1, 2015; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.118.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.118.050 Insurance.
Before any business license is issued each applicant shall first file evidence of current liability insurance to include a minimum of $1,000,000 bodily injury or death and $1,000,000 property damage each occurrence. Documentation shall also show the City of Ritzville as not liable in any such occurrence or endeavor associated with the applicant.
(Ord. 2085 § 5, 2015; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.118.060 Planting, maintenance and removal.
It is the City of Ritzville's goal to work with the landowners of our community to provide adequate and healthy trees by utilizing the provisions set forth below:
A.
Species. The species list contained in Exhibit A constitutes the official street tree species for Ritzville, Washington. No species other than those included in this list may be planted as street trees without written permission of the tree board or city council.
B.
Spacing. The spacing of street trees will be in accordance with the species size classes listed in Exhibit A. No trees may be planted closer together than the following: small trees, 30 feet; medium trees, 40 feet; and large trees, 50 feet; except in special plantings designed or approved by the tree board or city council.
C.
Distance from Curb or Sidewalk. No street tree shall be planted closer than 25 feet from any street corner, measured from the point of the nearest intersecting curbs or curb lines and at least three feet from a sidewalk or curb. No street tree shall be planted closer than 10 feet of any fire hydrant. All provisions of Chapter 11.90 RCC, Landscaping, Screening and Property Maintenance, shall apply.
D.
Utilities. No street tree other than those species listed as small trees in Exhibit A may be planted under or within 10 lateral feet of any overhead utility wire, or over or within five lateral feet of any underground water line, sewer line, transmission line or other utility.
E.
Public Tree Care. The City of Ritzville shall have the right to plant, prune, maintain and remove trees, plants and shrubs within the boundaries of all rights-of-way, like streets, alleys, avenues, lanes, boulevards, parks, open spaces and public grounds as may be necessary to ensure public safety or preserve or enhance the symmetry and beauty of such areas.
The following shall be the responsibility of the adjacent propertyowner regarding the care of street trees, unless other arrangements are made with the public works department:
3.
Treatment, when possible, of disease and invasive insect infestation.
4.
Tree removal when any conflict cannot be otherwise remedied.
6.
Performing maintenance to meet the standards as outlined in this chapter.
7.
Routine maintenance, including minor pruning; watering; fertilizing; and leaf, pinecone, and fallen limb removal.
8.
Notifying the City of Ritzville when: major pruning is required; emergency maintenance is needed; conflicts exist between roots and sidewalks/streets; limbs interfere with wires or power lines; limbs pose a risk to public safety; and when there may be disease or insect problems.
The City of Ritzville has the right, but not the obligation, to perform routine maintenance on street trees as described in this section. This does not dismiss the responsibilities of the adjacent property owner, nor does it impose any liability upon the City of Ritzville. |
In non-emergency situations, the City of Ritzville and its contractors reserve the right to schedule maintenance at their own discretion but within a reasonable amount of time. Deciding factors include how imminent the need for maintenance is, as well as time and funding constraints. |
The City of Ritzville may remove or order to be removed any tree or part thereof which is in an unsafe condition or which by reason of its nature is injurious to persons, sewers, electric power lines, gas lines, water lines, or is affected by any injurious fungus, insect or trees based on risk at the owner's expense. This section does not prohibit the planting of street trees by adjacent property owners; providing, that the selection and location of said trees is in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. |
F.
Tree Topping. It shall be unlawful as a normal practice for any person, firm, or city department to top any street tree, park tree or other tree on public or private property. Trees severely damaged by storms, or other causes, or certain trees under utility wires or other obstructions where other pruning practices are impractical, may be exempted from this chapter at the determination of the tree board or city council.
G.
Pruning, Corner Clearance. Every owner of any tree overhanging any street or right-of-way within the city shall prune the branches so that such branches shall not obstruct the light from any street light or obstruct the view or access of any street intersection, traffic control device, or fire hydrant. There shall be a clear space of 10 feet above the surface of the street or sidewalk. Trees must adhere to the clear view triangle requirements as outlined in this title.
Said owners shall remove all dead, diseased or hazardous trees, or broken or decayed limbs which constitute a menace to the safety of the public.
H.
Dead or Diseased Tree Removal on Private Property. The City of Ritzville shall have the right to the removal of any dead or diseased trees on private property within the city when provided in writing by an ISA certified arborist when: such trees constitute a hazard to life and/or property; or harbor insects; or diseases which constitute a potential threat to other trees. Removal shall be done by said owners at their own expense within 60 days, or shorter depending on the hazard to the public and/or recommendation by arborist, after the date of service of notice. All portions of the affected tree shall be removed in order to prevent spreading the affliction to other trees. In the event of failure of owners to comply with such provisions, the City of Ritzville shall have the authority to remove such trees and charge the cost of removal to the owner and lien the property if necessary.
I.
Removal of Stumps. The area for stump removal is that which causes the surface of the ground to be higher than the adjacent grade. All stumps of street and park trees shall be removed a minimum of four inches and a maximum of 12 inches below the existing grade so the top of the stump shall not project above the surface of the ground. The hole or depression resulting from the removal work shall be filled with topsoil and made level with the existing grade.
Exhibit A Tree List | ||
|---|---|---|
The following is a list of recommended species for different locations. This is not a complete list. New varieties are discovered and made available at different times. Other trees may be substituted and used, if approved by the tree board. | ||
RECOMMENDED STREET TREES | ||
Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry | Sugar Tyme Crab Apple | Globehead European Ash |
Frauter's Vesuvius Flowering Plum | Newport Flowering Plum | American Hornbeam |
Canada Red Chokecherry | Kwanzan Oriental Cherry | Paperback Maple |
Cornelian Cherry Dogwood | Japanese Hornbeam | Persian Parrotia |
Golden Desert Ash | Prairifire Crabapple | Lavalle Hawthorne |
Golden Raindrops Crabapple | Japanese Lilac Tree | Kousa Dogwood |
MEDIUM NARROW TREES: | ||
Amanogawa Cherry | Capital Flowering Pear | Bowhall Red Maple |
Chanticleer Flowering Pear | Cleveland Select Flowering Pear | Pyramid Hornbeam |
Columnar Norway Maple | Columnar Sargent Cherry | Skyrocket English Oak |
Karpick Maple | ||
Aristocrat Flowering Pear | Autumn Blaze Flowering Pear | Hedge Maple |
Worplesdon Sweetgum | American Hophornbeam | Ginkgo Tree |
Autumn Flame Red Maple | Crimson King Norway Maple | European Hornbeam |
Green Vase Japanese Zelkova | Katsura Tree | Sawtooth Oak |
Ruby Horsechestnut | Whitebeam | Raywood Ash |
Sour Gum | Coliseum Maple | Chinese Tulip Tree |
American Yellowwood | Kobus Magnolia | |
Pin Oak | Red Oak | Tulip Tree |
Bur Oak | Dawn Redwood | English Oak |
Bloodgood London Plane Tree | ||
RECOMMENDED PARK TREES: | ||
Grand Fir | Linden | Douglas Fir |
Western Red Cedar | Western Hemlock | Cascara |
Vine Maple | Shore Pine | Paper Birch |
Red Alder | White Alder | London Plane Tree |
RECOMMENDED GOLF TREES: | ||
Norway Maple* | Red Maple* | Legacy Sugar Maple* |
Princeton Sentry Ginkgo | Sweetgum | Tulip Tree |
Dawn Redwood | Ponderosa Pine | White Oak |
Bur Oak | Columnar English Oak | English Yew |
Red Oak | Sterling Silver Linden | American Elm |
Japanese Zelkova | White Fir | Canadian Hemlock |
Noble Fir | Atlas Blue Cedar | Cedar of Lebanon |
Leyland Cypress | Arizona Cypress | Blue Italian Cypress |
European Beech | Tricolor Beech | Colorado Blue Spruce |
Scots Pine | Eastern White Pine | Douglas Fir |
*Best in out-of-play areas because of summertime loss of leaves, seeds or limbs. | ||
PROHIBITED STREET TREES | ||
Box Elder | Hemlock | |
Silver Maple | Spruce | |
Willow | Pine | |
Fir | Poplar | |
Cedar | Cottonwood | |
Russian Olive | Locust | |
Any fruit-bearing tree except ornamentals | ||
(Ord. 2085 § 6, Exh. A, 2015; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.118.070 Interference.
It shall be unlawful for any person to prevent, delay or interfere with City of Ritzville officials, employees or any of its agents while engaging in and about the planting, cultivating, mulching, pruning, spraying or removing of any street tree, park tree or trees on private grounds as authorized by this chapter.
(Ord. 2085 § 7, 2015; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.118.080 Appeal.
Any property owner who is given notice to remove or perform maintenance on any private or adjacent street tree has the right to file an appeal of the decision to the city clerk within 20 days of the date that the notice is received. All mailed notices shall be deemed received by the property owner five days after the date it was mailed. All personally served notices shall be received on the date of personal service on the property owner.
B.
Hearing Date. As soon as practical after receiving the written appeal, the Administrator shall fix a date, time and place for the hearing of the appeal and provide written notice to the appellant. Such date shall be not less than 30 calendar days nor more than 90 calendar days from the date the appeal was filed with the city clerk.
(Ord. 2085 § 8, 2015; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.118.090 Enforcement.
Any person, partnership, association, firm or corporation who violates or fails to comply with this chapter is guilty of a civil infraction and is subject to the civil penalties and remedies and corrective actions as set forth in Chapter 11.260 RCC, Enforcement, which remedies are cumulative, not alternative remedies, and are in addition to any other remedy to which the City of Ritzville may be entitled by law. Any violation of this chapter is declared to be a public nuisance, subject to abatement or injunctive relief in accordance with the City of Ritzville's ordinances and the laws of the State of Washington.
(Ord. 2085 § 9, 2015; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.120.020 Application.
§ 11.120.030 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to promote and protect the public health, welfare, and safety by regulating existing and proposed outdoor signs of all types. It is intended to protect property values, create a more attractive economic and business climate, enhance and protect the physical appearance of the community, help preserve the historic buildings and areas, preserve the scenic and natural beauty of designated areas, and provide a more enjoyable and pleasing community. It is further intended to reduce sign or advertising distractions and obstructions that may contribute to traffic accidents, reduce hazards that may be caused by signs overhanging or projecting over public rights-of-way, provide more open space, and curb the deterioration of natural beauty and community environment.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.081, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.120.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.120.050 General.
D.
Application for Permit. Application for permit shall be submitted and shall contain the following information:
3.
A detailed drawing or blueprint showing a description of the construction details of the sign including sign wordage, any photos or illustrations, position of lighting or other extraneous devices, a location plan showing the position of the sign on any building or land and its position in relation to nearby buildings or structures and to any private street or highway.
F.
Issuance of Permit. It shall be the duty of the Administrator, upon filing of an application for a permit to erect a sign, to examine plans, specifications and other data submitted with the application and, if necessary, the building or premises where proposed sign shall be erected. If the application meets the requirements of this sign regulation and is in compliance with all other applicable city regulations, the Administrator shall issue a permit within 15 business days. The permit is valid for six months from date of issuance. The permit may be reissued within 30 days of expiration for an additional fee as established in the City of Ritzville's adopted fee schedule. A permit may not be reissued more than one time without reapplication and payment of full permit fees.
G.
3.
Temporary signs and exempt signs are exempt from permit requirements.
I.
Inspections. Signs may be inspected periodically for compliance with the City of Ritzville development regulations.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.082, 2001; Ord. 1042 § 2, 2002; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.120.060 Signs in residential zones.
B.
Size. One sign not exceeding two square feet in area shall be permitted per dwelling unit. For multiple dwellings, one or more additional signs totaling 12 square feet shall be permitted.
F.
Content. The sign per dwelling unit shall indicate only the name of the occupant and may include the address. The additional sign area permitted for multiple dwellings shall be only for the identification of the building. In the case of an approved home occupation, the signmay bear the name of the business or service offered.
G.
Illumination. Illumination, if used, shall be what is known as white and not colored light and shall not be blinking, fluctuating or moving. Light rays shall shine only upon the sign or upon the property on which the sign is located and shall not spill over the property lines in any direction except by indirect reflection.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.083, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.120.070 Signs in commercial zones.
A.
Wall Signs. The total area for all wall signs on each side of the building shall not exceed 75 square feet. In the case of projecting signs, sign area shall be calculated for one side of the sign. Signs flush against the building face may be located anywhere on the surface of the building. Signs projecting from the building face may project no more than six feet from the face of the building, have a maximum height of five feet and must have a minimum clearance of eight feet above a public sidewalk and 15 feet above public driveways or alleys.
B.
Pole Signs. Pole or ground-mounted signs are permitted when the building does not cover the full width of the parcel upon which it is located. The total area for a pole sign shall not exceed 60 square feet. Such a sign may extend up to 100 feet above the ground level at the base of the sign, except as may be required by this title. Such signs may extend up to 50 feet above the roof when placed on a building. Pole signs more than 25 feet in height must be at least 500 feet from any residential zone.
E.
Identity Signs. One ground-mounted identity sign is permitted not exceeding six feet in height with a maximum sign area of 75 square feet per side.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.084, 2001; Ord. 2010 § 1, 2007; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.120.080 Signs in tourist commercial zones.
A.
Maximum Signage. The maximum total number of signs for one lot is five unless on a corner where one additional sign is allowed. The collective maximum area of all signs may not exceed 800 square feet. The ratio of the sign surface to frontage of the building shall be based on the International Zoning Code per Figures 1008.1.2(2) and 1008.1.2(3) not including sign height. When multiple businesses are present on the same premises, the maximum size of all signs for each business shall not exceed one-half the allowable size for the type of sign.
B.
Pole Signs. A freestanding sign (pole) is a sign principally supported by a structure affixed to the ground, and not supported by a building, including signs supported by one or more columns, poles, or braces placed in or upon the ground. Pole or ground-mounted signs are permitted when the building does not cover the full width of the parcel upon which it is located. The total area for a pole sign shall not exceed 60 square feet. The maximum number of pole signs is two. The maximum height of a pole sign shall not exceed 60 feet when measured from the threshold of the front door of the business. Such signs may extend up to 50 feet above the roof when placed on a building. The distance from the adjacent property line of a pole sign must be at least a minimum of 15 feet or 40% of the average of the two lot frontages. For purposes of calculating the sign area, only one side of a two-sided pole sign will count.
C.
Wall Signs. The total area of all wall signs on each side of the building shall not exceed 100 square feet per side on single-story or two-story buildings. An additional 25 square feet may be added per side for each additional story. In the case of projecting signs, sign area shall be calculated for one side of the sign. Signs flush against the building face may be located anywhere on the surface of the building. Signs projecting from the building face may project no more than six feet from the face of the building, have a maximum height of five feet and must have a minimum clearance of eight feet above a public sidewalk and 15 feet above public driveways or alleys.
E.
Identity Signs. One ground-mounted identity sign is permitted not exceeding six feet in height with a maximum sign area not to exceed 75 square feet per side.
(Ord. 2020 § 1, 2008; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.120.090 Signs in industrial, public facilities and agricultural zones.
Signs in all industrial, public facilities and agricultural zones shall comply with the following standards:
A.
Wall Signs. The area and location requirements shall be the same as in RCC § 11.120.070, except that wall signs shall be no larger than 50 square feet in area.
B.
Identity Sign. One ground-mounted identity sign is permitted not exceeding six feet in height with a maximum sign area of 75 square feet per side.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.085, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.120.100 Design review for historic preservation.
§ 11.120.110 Nonconforming uses and nonconforming signs.
B.
Signs existing and not conforming to the provisions of this chapter, but which were constructed in compliance with previous regulations shall be regarded as nonconforming signs. Such signs may be maintained in their present condition unless hazardous but may not be altered, erected, or relocated unless in conformity with the sign code.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.087, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.120.120 Exemptions.
The following types of signs are exempted from all the provisions of this chapter, except for construction and safety regulations and the following requirements:
B.
Institutional. Signs setting forth the name or any simple announcement for any public, charitable, educational, or religious institution located entirely within the premises of that institution up to an area of 24 square feet. Such signs may be illuminated in accordance with the regulations contained hereinafter. If building-mounted, these signs shall be flat wall signs and shall not project above the roofline. If ground-mounted, the top shall be no more than six feet above ground level;
D.
Private Traffic Direction. Signs directing traffic movement onto premises or within premises not exceeding three square feet in area for each sign. Illumination of these signs shall be permitted in accordance with the section hereinafter included on illumination. Horizontal directional signs on and flush with paved areas are exempt from these standards;
F.
Rental. Signs on the premises announcing rooms for rent, room and board, apartment or house for rent and not exceeding four square feet in area;
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.088, 2001; Ord. 1029 § 4, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.120.130 Prohibited signs.
A.
Contain statements, words, or pictures of an obscene, indecent, or immoral character such as will offend public morals or decency;
B.
Contain or are an imitation of an official traffic sign or signal or contain the words "stop," "go slow," "caution," "danger," "warning," or similar words;
E.
Move in any manner or have a moving part;
F.
Contain or consist of banners, posters, pennants, ribbons, streamers, strings of light bulbs, spinners, or other similarly moving devices, unless on private property;
G.
May swing or otherwise noticeably move as a result of wind pressure because of the manner of their suspension or attachment;
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.089, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.120.140 Temporary signs.
§ 11.122.010 Title.
This chapter shall be called "Murals."
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.122.020 Application.
The standards for murals set forth in this chapter shall apply to all properties within the city. This chapter applies to landmarks register properties; districts in the Ritzville historic district and the National Register of Historic Places; and historic murals.
(Ord. 2107 § 2, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.122.030 Purpose.
In the city, murals foster a sense of community and connection and enrich the experience of both tourists and residents. Acknowledging that murals provide economic benefits and enhance livability, the City of Ritzville's mural policy seeks both to preserve historic murals already in existence and provide guidance for creation of new works of mural art.
On Ritzville historic districts, the policy seeks to allow the placement and scale of new murals in such a way that the character-defining features of historic properties are not obscured, covered, or otherwise adversely affected. The policy encourages artistic expression through murals in appropriate locations with little intrusion into artistic expression and content.
(Ord. 2107 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.122.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.122.050 Standards and guidelines.
A.
Permit Required. Prior to installation, all murals require submission of an application and issuance of a permit subject to the following provisions:
1.
Submittal requirements of all the following materials must be submitted with application for a mural:
b.
Map of landmark structures and historic districts within 300 feet of the proposed mural;
d.
Color image of mural and artist's examples of past work, if any;
f.
Maintenance plan.
2.
Applications for murals not on landmarks register properties and not in districts listed on the Ritzville historic district or on the National Register of Historic Places shall first be reviewed by the planning/historic commission in a public meeting for a recommendation which shall be forwarded to the clerk/treasurer department to issue a permit.
3.
Applications for murals located on planning/historic commission or in districts listed on the Ritzville historic district or on the National Register of Historic Places shall first be reviewed by the planning/historic commission in a public meeting, as referenced above, and shall also obtain a certificate of approval (COA) from the same. It will then be forwarded to the clerk/treasurer department to issue a permit.
C.
Installation and Maintenance of All Approved Murals.
1.
Murals shall be installed in a manner to ensure that they withstand the elements to the greatest degree that is feasible as determined by the planning/historic commission.
2.
Murals shall use materials, coatings, or other protective techniques that will resist vandalism, weathering by sun, water, wind and graffiti to the greatest degree feasible as determined by the planning/historic commission.
D.
Location, Design and Style of Murals on Landmark Structures or in Historic Districts.
1.
The design (not content) of murals on landmarks register properties and in districts listed on the Ritzville historic district or on the National Register of Historic Places must be consistent and compatible with the architectural and historical character of the historic district and the architectural features (column bays, windows, planar walls, cornices, beams, columns, trim, windows, doors, etc.) of the building on which they are located.
2.
Murals shall not be permitted to be placed directly on unpainted brick, unpainted or painted stone, wood sidings with surface detail, or any other material that does not have a planar or flat character. An exception to this provision may be allowable in instances where new paint is applied onto the existing paint of a historic mural for the purpose of restoration, and for which a COA has been obtained. Prior to the installation, the surface to which the mural will be applied must be in a condition that would allow the permanent attachment of the proposed mural.
4.
Three-dimensional murals are not allowed.
E.
1.
Alteration or removal of any existing or permitted mural on landmarks register properties and districts listed on the Ritzville historic district or on the National Register of Historic Places requires a permit obtained through the process set forth in the Ritzville City Code. Alteration or removal of historic murals shall only be made pursuant to this subsection.
2.
Alteration or removal of any existing or permitted mural shall not damage or lead to the destruction or deterioration of a building or structure or adversely impact the architectural or historic character of any building located within a historic district.
F.
Historic Murals.
1.
The planning/historic commission will conduct a survey of existing murals and include those deemed historic in the Ritzville historic district.
2.
New murals shall not be painted over historic murals as defined in RCC § 11.138.090, Ritzville Downtown Historic District and Historic Preservation Overlay Design Guidelines. Historic murals may not be altered, repainted, painted out, removed, restored or otherwise disturbed, unless the structural integrity of the building is at stake, without compliance with the following:
a.
Prior to the alteration, repainting, painting out, removal, restoration or other disturbance to an historic mural the property owner shall obtain a COA. Application for a COA shall be reviewed by the planning/historic commission in accordance with the procedures set forth in RCC § 11.138.080, Ritzville Downtown Historic District and Historic Preservation Overlay Design Guidelines, with the following exceptions:
i.
The planning/historic commission shall meet initially with the applicant to consider alternatives to the alteration or removal including available incentives for preservation of the mural. These negotiations may last no longer than 120 days from the first meeting of the planning/historic commission unless the applicant agrees to an extension. During these negotiations, the applicant should allow the Commission to review the site and plans for the alteration and/or removal of the mural. An alteration and/or removal notice must also be placed on the property and published in the newspaper.
b.
Prior to the permitted disturbance of an historic mural, photographic documentation of the mural shall be collected and made available to the planning/historic commission.
4.
The planning/historic commission will review the possibility of initiating a program to restore historic murals.
(Ord. 2107 § 3, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.122.060 General penalty.
Any violation of the provisions of this chapter shall be deemed a civil infraction punishable by a fine of up to $500. Each day of violation shall be considered a separate offense. Any murals painted/constructed without a permit shall be removed immediately at the property owner's expense.
(Ord. 2107 § 4, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.125.010 Title.
This chapter shall be called "Manufactured Housing Communities."
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.125.020 Application.
This chapter shall apply to all manufactured housing communities in the city.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.125.030 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to ensure a suitable living environment for owners of manufactured homes located within manufactured home communities. The following standards are necessary to provide for the health, safety, and convenience as well as to provide affordable, single-family style housing while being compatible with the character and scale of surrounding residential neighborhoods.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.091, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.125.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.125.050 Standards.
A.
Permitted uses shall be single-family residential with accessory uses in conjunction with common areas and open spaces.
C.
The minimum site area of a manufactured housing community shall be two acres; the maximum site area for a manufactured housing community, or combination of adjacent parks, shall be 15 acres. Housing communities shall be considered "adjacent" to one another unless they are separated by an unrelated land use, and not merely by a public or private street, easement, or buffer.
D.
The number of manufactured housing units within a manufactured housing community may not exceed six units per net acre.
E.
Buffering and/or screening shall be required along the exterior boundaries of the project with no housing unit located closer than 20 feet from the outside property line. A landscaped strip with a minimum width of five feet shall adjoin all public rights-of-way and be improved with planting and fencing to screen the manufactured housing units from view while not impeding sight distance requirements for drivers exiting the community. Additionally, the park shall provide visual screening and landscaping as required in perimeter setback areas and open space. Landscaping may consist of suitable groundcover, shrubs and trees; provided, that they are installed prior to the first occupancy of the park, and are of such species and size as would normally fulfill a screening function within five years of being planted. Site developmentshall be sensitive to the preservation of existing vegetation. All trees, flowers, lawns and other landscaping features shall be maintained by the park management in a healthy, growing condition at all times. The following minimum requirements for landscaping and screening shall apply:
1.
Along the exterior site boundary, a minimum 10-foot-wide planting strip of evergreen trees and shrubs.
2.
Where abutting a major arterial, the planting strip shall be a minimum of 20 feet wide; provided, that a minimum 10-foot strip may be considered sufficient when it can be demonstrated that with earth sculpturing and contouring, or a sight-obscuring fence, the development is buffered sufficiently.
G.
Access to manufactured housing communities shall not be from a local or collector street, with no individual lot or residence having access directly to a public right-of-way outside the community boundaries.
I.
In addition to occupant parking, guest and service parking shall be provided within the boundaries of the park at a ratio of one parking space for each four manufactured home lots and shall be distributed for convenient access to all lots and may be provided by a parking lane and/or separate parking areas. Clubhouse and community building parking facilities may account for up to 50% of this requirement.
K.
The following minimum lot standards shall apply, in addition to those stated in subsections A through J of this section:
Manufactured Housing Minimum Lot Standards for Subdivisions | |
|---|---|
Minimum lot size | 4,500 square feet |
Minimum lot width (at building line) | 45 feet |
Minimum lot depth | 100 feet |
Minimum front setback | 15 feet |
Minimum side yard | 5 feet |
Minimum rear yard | 20 feet |
Minimum distance between housing units | 15 feet |
Minimum distance from edge of pavement, street or walkway | 15 feet |
Roof pitch for every 12 feet of horizontal run | No less than 3-foot rise |
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.092, 2001; Ord. 2003 § 2, 2006; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.125.060 Procedures for review and approval.
A.
Conditional Use Permit. A manufactured home park shall be allowed in the R-2 and R-3 residential zones only upon the issuance of a conditional use permit by the planning commission. The owner, operator and occupants of a mobile home park shall develop and use the park in strict compliance with the conditions imposed by the use permit. The City of Ritzville shall maintain continuing jurisdiction for the review and enforcement of said conditions. (Reference conditional use provisions, Chapter 11.145 RCC.)
B.
Binding Site Plan. If a manufactured home park remains completely under single ownership or control, including ownership by a condominium association, compliance with an approved binding site plan shall preclude the necessity to plat the park or comply with any other subdivision laws or ordinances. (Reference Binding Site Plan, Chapter 11.255 RCC.)
C.
Plat Map. If a manufactured housing community is to be subdivided with intent to sell lots to individuals who may then locate manufactured housing units on the property, then the manufactured housing community project shall be considered a manufactured housing community subdivision and shall be subject to the platting process.
D.
Amendments to an Approved CUP or Binding Site Plan. An approved CUP or binding site plan may be modified or amended at the request of the applicant upon receiving approval by the City of Ritzville; provided, that if said modification or amendment affects the external impacts of the manufactured home park, or is determined by the City of Ritzville to be substantial in nature, then such modification or amendment shall be resubmitted to the planning commission for review.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.093, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.130.010 Title.
This chapter shall be called "Recreational Vehicle Parks."
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.130.020 Application.
This chapter shall apply to all recreational vehicle parks in the city.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.130.030 Purpose.
Recreational vehicle parks provide commercial transient housing to allow people to enjoy the outdoors. The purpose of this chapter is to provide standards for recreational vehicle parks, including campgrounds, to ensure that such operations are compatible with the surrounding uses.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.101, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.130.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.130.050 Development standards.
A.
The minimum size of a recreational vehicle park shall be one acre.
B.
The maximum gross density shall be one recreational vehicle space per each 1,000 square feet of land area.
C.
No less than 10% of the total site area shall be provided as defined recreational space. The recreational space shall be easily accessible and shall be improved and maintained in such a manner so as to provide adequate recreational facilities for the users of the recreational vehicle park. The planning commission may waive this requirement if it determines that recreational facilities located adjacent or in close proximity to the site will be sufficient to satisfy the recreational needs of users of the park.
D.
Each recreational vehicle space shall have a minimum width of 20 feet.
E.
There shall be a minimum side-to-side dimension of eight feet between units and a minimum end-to-end dimension of 10 feet between units.
G.
Five-foot-wide pedestrian walkways shall be provided from the recreational vehicle spaces to all service buildings and facilities, and refuse collection areas. The walkways shall be hard surfaced, well drained, and well lighted.
H.
All interior streets shall comply with the City of Ritzville's adopted standards for streets of that class. Paving on park streets shall consist of crushed rock base and asphalt or concrete surfacing, as approved by the city engineer. All interior streets shall be well drained, well lighted, and continuously maintained in operable condition.
I.
No recreational vehicle shall remain in place in a recreational vehicle park for more than 120 days in any one-year period.
K.
All utilities shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with all applicable State and local codes and regulations. The following requirements for utilities shall apply:
2.
Each recreational vehicle park shall be provided with one or more easily accessible water supply outlets for filling recreational vehicle water storage tanks.
4.
Each recreational vehicle park shall be provided with sanitary dumping stations in the ratio of one for every 100 spaces or fractional part thereof. Sanitary stations shall consist of at least a trapped four-inch sewer riser pipe connected to the sewage disposal system and surrounded at the inlet end by a concrete apron sloped to the drain and provided with a suitable hinged cover; and a water outlet with the necessary appurtenances connected to the water supply system to permit periodic wash down of the immediate adjacent areas. A signshall be posted near the water outlet indicating that the water is for flushing and cleaning purposes only. Sanitary stations shall be screened from other activities by a visual barrier such as fences, walls, or natural growth and shall be located a minimum of 50 feet from any recreational vehicle space.
L.
All recreational vehicle parks shall comply with rules and regulations of the Washington State Board of Health.
M.
All recreational vehicle spaces shall be well marked and numbered.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.102, 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.132.020 Application.
This chapter shall apply to all marijuana uses including a recreational marijuana producer, processor, or retailer, as defined and regulated herein and in Chapter 314-55 WAC. The specific development standards provided in this chapter shall be in addition to the zoning and development standards generally applicable to the proposed use and the relevant zoning district.
B.
No use that purports to be a recreational marijuana producer, processor, or retailer, as defined and regulated herein and in Chapter 314-55 WAC, that was engaged in that activity prior to the enactment of the ordinance codified in this chapter shall be deemed to have been a legally established use or entitled to claim legal nonconforming status.
(Ord. 2105 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.132.030 Purpose.
Pursuant to RCW Title 69 and the requirements of Chapter 314-55 WAC, the state has adopted rules establishing a State-wide regulatory and licensing program for medical and recreational marijuana uses. It is the intent of these regulations to ensure that such State-licensed uses are located and developed in a manner that is consistent with the desired character and standards of this community and its neighborhoods, minimizes potential incompatibilities and impacts, and protects the public health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of the city. Recognizing the voter approved right to establish certain types of medical marijuana operations and recreational marijuana businesses, it is also the intent of these regulations to provide reasonable access to mitigate the illicit marijuana market and the legal and personal risks and community impacts associated with it.
(Ord. 2105 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.132.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.132.050 Environmental performance standards.
Failure of the enforcing officer to require such information shall not be construed as relieving the operator and/or the proprietor from compliance with the environmental performance standards of this title.
Marijuana producers, processors, and retail sales shall incorporate odor control technology and provisions to ensure that emissions do not exceed Washington Clean Air Act regulations as contained in Chapter 70A.15 RCW.
(Ord. 2105 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.132.060 Collective gardens.
No collective gardens shall be permitted in any zoning district in the city.
(Ord. 2105 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.132.070 Medical marijuana cooperatives.
A.
No more than four qualifying patients or designated providers may become members of a cooperative under this section and all members must hold valid recognition cards. All members of the cooperative must be at least 21 years old. The designated provider of a qualifying patient who is under 21 years old may be a member of a cooperative on the qualifying patient's behalf.
B.
No person shall engage in a medical marijuana cooperative without first having obtained from the Administrator a valid and current registration authorizing such person to engage in operation. This registration shall be in addition to any other registrations or permits required by State or federal laws. Such registration is nontransferable.
C.
Cooperatives shall not be located within one mile of a marijuana retailer.
E.
Only one cooperative is permitted on any one site.
F.
No cooperative shall be permitted within 1,000 feet of any public parks, playgrounds, recreation/community centers, libraries, child care centers, schools, game arcades and public transit centers.
H.
The qualifying patients or designated providers of any cooperative shall not grow more than the maximum of 60 plants or possess more than 72 ounces of usable marijuana.
J.
Must meet all other development requirements.
(Ord. 2105 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.132.080 Marijuana buffers.
A.
Marijuana producers, marijuana processors, and marijuana retailersshall not be allowed to locate within 1,000 feet of playgrounds, elementary schools, or secondary schools.
B.
The City of Ritzville finds that, in the best interest of the citizens, a buffer of 500 feet be established from any residential zone adjacent to an approved zone for any marijuana producers, marijuana processors, and marijuana retailers.
C.
The City of Ritzville finds that the reduction in buffers for public parks, recreation/community centers, libraries, child care centers, game arcades, and public transit centers will not negatively impact the City of Ritzville's civil regulatory enforcement, criminal law enforcement interests, public safety, or public health. Therefore, the City of Ritzville establishes the following buffers for marijuana producers, marijuana processors, and marijuana retailers:
D.
For purposes of these standards, these uses are defined in Chapter 314-55 WAC. The methodology for measuring the buffers shall be as provided in Chapter 314-55 WAC. It shall be the responsibility of the owner or operator of the proposed State-licensed marijuana use to demonstrate and ensure that a proposed location is not within one of the buffers.
(Ord. 2105 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.132.090 Marijuana development requirements.
A.
Marijuana processors, producers and marijuana retailers shall only be permitted as allowed under Chapter 69.50 RCW and Chapter 314-55 WAC and shall only be operated by persons or entities holding a valid marijuana license from the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board issued under Chapter 314-55 WAC and any other applicable State laws and regulations.
B.
Marijuana processors, producers and marijuana retailers shall only be allowed within the city municipal boundaries if appropriately licensed by the State of Washington and in possession of a current business license issued by the Administrator, and operated consistent with the requirements of the State and all applicable City of Ritzville ordinances, rules, requirements, and standards.
C.
Marijuana processors, producers and marijuana retailers shall be the primary use at a location, and shall only be allowed within the city in those zoning districts where it is specifically identified as an allowed use.
1.
Marijuana retailers shall only be allowed in the commercial (C-3) zones defined and identified in this title.
2.
Marijuana producers and processors shall only be allowed in the commercial (C-1, C-2) and industrial zones defined and identified in this title.
D.
The production, processing, selling, or delivery of recreational marijuana, marijuana-infused products, or usable marijuana may not be conducted alone or in association with any business establishments, dwelling units or home occupation located in any of the following zoning districts in the city: all residential zones (R-1, R-2, and R-3) defined and identified in this title.
E.
Marijuana processing facilities shall be designed to include controls and features to prevent odors from traveling off site and being detected from a public place, the public right-of-way or properties owned or leased by another person or entity.
F.
Marijuana retailers shall not include drive-thru, exterior, or off-site sales. Marijuana retailers shall not be located in a mobile or temporarystructure.
G.
In accordance with WAC 314-55-147, marijuana retail sales shall not be open to the public between the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.
H.
Signage for marijuana processing and retail businesses shall be subject to the requirements of WAC 314-55-155. No off-premises signage is permitted.
K.
Marijuana processors and marijuana retailers shall connect to all City of Ritzville utilities and pay all applicable system development costs, connections fees and charges as established by the City of Ritzville fee schedule.
L.
Marijuana processing and marijuana retail sales are not permitted as a home occupation under this title.
N.
Marijuana processing and marijuana retail sales are subject to all applicable requirements of RCW Title 69 and Chapter 314-55 WAC and other State statutes as they now exist or may be amended.
O.
Marijuana processing and retail sales must take place within fully enclosed secure indoor facilities.
P.
No marijuana processing or delivery of marijuana shall be visible to the public nor may it be visible through windows. A screened and secured loading dock, approved by the building official, shall be required. The objective of this requirement is to provide a secure, visual screen from the public right-of-way and adjoining properties, and prevent the escape of product when delivering or transferring marijuana, usable marijuana and marijuana-infused products.
Q.
All marijuana processors and retailers shall allow inspection of the site and facilities by the Administrator and/or authorized city personnel, including law enforcement, for compliance with all applicable State and local permits and licenses at any time during regular business hours.
R.
An application for a marijuana business shall include the following information in addition to any application requirements required by the underlying zone:
2.
The application shall include a copy of the State-issued license or a copy of the license application on file with the State Liquor and Cannabis Board. A City of Ritzville business license shall not be issued for a marijuana business unless the applicant is a State Liquor and Cannabis Board marijuana licensee.
3.
A map drawn to scale by a professional land surveyor showing that the proposed marijuana business is in compliance with the applicable buffers under RCW 69.50.331, WAC 314-55-050, and local ordinances.
S.
A recreational marijuana business shall meet all security requirements as required by WAC 314-55-083 and shall provide proof of such operational security system prior to issuance of a City of Ritzville business license. In addition to the security requirements in Chapter 314-55 WAC, during nonbusiness hours, all marijuana producers, processors, and retailers shall store all usable marijuana and marijuana-infused product and cash in a safe or in a substantially constructed and locked cabinet. The safe or cabinet shall be incorporated into the buildingstructure or securely attached thereto. For usable marijuana products that must be kept refrigerated or frozen, these products may be stored in a locked refrigerator or freezer container in a manner approved by the health department.
T.
All fertilizers, chemicals, gases and hazardous materials shall be handled in compliance with all applicable local, State, and federal regulations. No fertilizers, chemicals, gases, or hazardous materials shall be allowed to enter a sanitary sewer or storm sewer system, nor be released into atmosphere outside of the structure where the business is located.
(Ord. 2105 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.132.100 Measurement of distances.
Any distance described in this chapter shall be computed by direct measurement as stated in WAC 314-55-050(2) as follows: the distance shall be measured as the shortest straight line distance between the property lines of the mentioned uses.
(Ord. 2105 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.132.110 Nuisance declared.
§ 11.132.120 Violations – Penalty.
In addition to other remedies provided for in this chapter, any violation of the provisions of this chapter shall constitute a civil infraction.
(Ord. 2105 § 1, 2017; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.115.020 Application.
§ 11.115.030 Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to establish regulations for installing, constructing, erecting, of fences within the city.
(Ord. 2095 § 1, 2016; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.115.040 Authority.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Ritzville by the Washington State Constitution as a second-class city, the provisions of Chapter 35.23 RCW et seq., Chapter 35.63 RCW et seq., the Planning Act set forth in Chapters 36.70 and 36.70A RCW, Chapters 35.21, 36.01, 36.70B, 36.70C, and 58.17 RCW et seq., and other applicable laws, as these provisions now exist or as hereinafter amended.
(Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.115.050 Front yards.
No sight-obscuring fence over four feet in height above the finished ground level may be erected within the required front yard of any lot, subject to the provisions relating to the clear view triangle as codified in RCC §§ 11.85.060 and 11.115.070.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.070(A), 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2079 § 1, 2014; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.115.060 Side or rear yards.
No fence shall exceed a height of six feet in the side or rear yards. A side yard fence may extend to the front yard setback line.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.070(B), 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.115.070 Clear view triangle.
No fencing or other sight obstruction which constitutes a hazard to the traveling public within the area designated as the "clear view triangle" shall be allowed on a corner lot. The clear view triangle is determined by measuring 10 feet from the point of two intersecting streets along the property lines and then connecting the two end points with a straight line forming the hypotenuse of the clear view triangle. Branches on trees within the triangle shall be removed at the trunk up to a minimum level of seven feet above finished ground level. Shrubs shall be maintained no higher than three feet above finished ground level within the triangle.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.070(C), 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.115.080 Industrial use zones.
Within one year after development of the first business in an area zoned for industrial uses, a fence or wall shall be installed along the side of any part of the property adjoining an R or C-2 district. The fence shall not exceed six feet in height and shall be of decorative material.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.070(D), 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.115.090 Prohibited fences.
No electrical or barbed wire fences are permitted.
(Ord. 1024 § 11.03.070(E), 2001; Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.115.100 Permits and fees.
Prior to installing, constructing, or erecting a fence, all fences shall have a permit issued by the City of Ritzville clerk's office or designated responsible official.
A.
Application for Permit. Application for permit shall be submitted and shall contain the following information:
3.
A detailed drawing or blueprint of the property showing to scale: a description of the construction details of the fence including material type, fence height, any photos or illustrations; a location plan of the fence and its position in relation to nearby buildings or structures and to any lot lines, private streets, rights-of-way and/or highways; and applicable setbacks shown.
B.
Fees. The fee for each fence permit application under this fencecode shall be established in the City of Ritzville's adopted fee schedule. Twenty percent of the fence permit application shall be placed in the City of Ritzville's cumulative reserve fund (No. 112) with the remaining funds to be placed in the general fund (No. 001). The fees will double if installation, construction or erection occurs prior to obtaining application approval.
C.
Issuance of Permit. It shall be the duty of the Administrator upon filing of an application for a permit to erect a fence, to examine plans, specifications and other data submitted with the application and, if necessary, the building or premises where proposed fence shall be erected. If the application meets the requirements of this fence regulation and is in compliance with all other applicable city regulations, the responsible official shall issue a permit within 15 business days. The permit is valid for six months from date of issuance. The permit may be reissued within 30 days of expiration for an additional fee as established in the City of Ritzville's adopted fee schedule. A permit may not be reissued more than one time without reapplication and payment of full permit fees.
F.
Inspections. Fences may be inspected periodically for compliance with the city development regulations.
(Ord. 2095 § 2, 2016; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)
§ 11.115.110 General penalty.
Any violation of the provisions of this article shall be deemed a civil infraction punishable by a fine of up to $500. Each day of violation shall be considered a separate offense. All fences constructed without a permit shall be removed immediately at the property owner's expense.
(Ord. 2095 § 3, 2016; Ord. 2188, 5/20/2025)