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January 12,2021 <br /> Page 5 of 7 <br /> Limited Geologic Evaluation <br /> a. If the geological assessment recommends setback buffers that are less than the <br /> standard buffers that would result from application of Chapter 19.18 of the IBC, the specific <br /> rationale and basis for the reduced buffers shall be clearly articulated in the geological <br /> assessment. <br /> b. The city may require larger setback buffer widths under any of the following circumstances: <br /> (1) The land is susceptible to severe erosion and erosion control measures will not effectively <br /> prevent adverse impacts. <br /> (2) The area has a severe risk of slope failure or downslope stormwater drainage impacts. <br /> (3) The increased buffer is necessary to protect public health, safety and welfare based upon <br /> findings and recommendations of the geological assessment. <br /> 3. Unless otherwise permitted as part of an approved alteration,the setback buffers required by <br /> this subsection shall be maintained in native vegetation to provide additional soil stability <br /> and erosion control. If the buffer area has been cleared, it shall be replanted with native <br /> vegetation in conjunction with any proposed development activity. <br /> The proposed development does not appear to alter the current setbacks or buffers. The proposed <br /> deck may extend 10 to 15 feet closer to steep slope areas without affecting the slope stability. We <br /> recommend maintaining vegetation in all areas that are currently vegetated. The current setbacks <br /> are at or near the IBC suggested distances of H/3 where H is the height of the slope. It is not <br /> possible to increase the setbacks for the existing residence. <br /> C. Permitted Alterations. Unless associated with another critical area, the planning director, <br /> using the review process described in EMC Title 15, Local Project Review Procedures, may <br /> allow alteration of an area identified as a geologically hazardous area or <br /> the setback buffers specified in the IBC if an approved geotechnical report demonstrates that: <br /> 1. The proposed development will not create a hazard to the subject property, surrounding <br /> properties or rights-of-way,or erosion or sedimentation to off-site properties or bodies of water; <br /> 2. The proposal addresses the existing geological constraints of the site,including an assessment <br /> of soils and hydrology; <br /> 3. The proposed method of construction will reduce erosion potential,landslide and seismic <br /> hazard potential,and will improve or not adversely affect the stability of slopes; <br /> 4. The proposal uses construction techniques which minimize disruption of existing topography <br /> and natural vegetation; <br /> 5. The proposal is consistent with the purposes and provisions of this chapter and mitigates any <br /> permitted impacts to critical areas in the vicinity of the proposal; <br /> 6. The proposal mitigates all impacts identified in the geotechnical letter or geotechnical report; <br /> 7. All utilities and access roads or driveways to and within the site are located so as to require <br /> the minimum amount of modification to slopes,vegetation or geologically hazardous areas;and <br /> 8. The improvements are certified as safe as designed and under anticipated conditions by <br /> a geologist. <br /> The proposed work is considered `certified' as safe provided the following conditions are <br /> utilized/implemented as part of development: <br /> • Proper erosion control measures until fi 1 landscaping is in place <br /> www.cobaltgeo.com Q� (206)331-1097 <br />