Ordinance 2909-06 - Laserfiche WebLink

The buffer area has less than 15% slopes, the existing buffer provides minimal vegetative cover and cannot provide the minimum water quality or habitat functions, and enhancement is proposed consistent with the following criteria: a. A mitigation plan consistent with subsections 12.13, E, and F (37.120.1), E. and F) is approved by the director, including, but not limited to maintenance, monitoring and provisions for an assurance device. b. The plan shall include plant densities not less than five feet on center for shrubs and ten feet on center for trees. 2. A site specific evaluation and documentation of buffer adequacy is based on consideration of the best available science and special consideration for the conservation or protection measures necessary to preserve or enhance anadromous fisheries consistent with WAC 365-195-900 through 925; and 3. Buffer width averaging is not utilized; and either 4. Structures, public roads, or other substantial improvements separate the subject upland property from the wetland and due to their height or width, prevent or impair the delivery of buffer functions to the wetland, in which cases the reduced buffer width shall reflect the buffer functions that can be delivered to the wetland; or 5. The wetland scores 19 points or less for wildlife habitat. D. Buffer Width Averaging. The city may allow buffer width averaging, provided that the total area on the lot contained within the buffer is not less than that required within the standard buffer, and that averaging will not reduce the wetland functions. The city may require buffer width averaging in order to provide protection to a particular portion of a wetland which is especially sensitive, or to incorporate existing significant vegetation or habitat areas into the buffer. Buffer width averaging shall not adversely impact the functions and values of the wetland. The adjusted minimum buffer width shall not be less than seventy-five percent of the standard buffer width. 1. Protection of Significant Trees within the Buffer. If buffer width averaging is utilized and significant trees are identified on the outer edge of the reduced buffer such that their drip line extends beyond the buffer edge, the following tree protection requirements must be followed: a. A tree protection area shall be designed to protect each tree or tree stand during site development and construction. Tree protection areas may vary widely in shape, but must extend a minimum of five feet beyond the existing tree canopy area along the outer edge of the dripline of the tree(s), unless otherwise approved by the Department. b. Tree protection areas shall be added and clearly labeled on all applicable site development and construction drawings, submitted to the Department. c. Temporary construction fencing at least 30 inches tall shall be erected around the perimeter of the tree protection areas prior to the initiation of any clearing or grading. 26