008-18 - Ordinance - Adopting Chapter 20.127 Design Standards and Amending Chapters in Title 20 Unified Development CodeORDINANCE NO. 008 -18
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT ORCHARD, WASHINGTON,
ADOPTING CHAPTER 20.127 (DESIGN STANDARDS) OF THE PORT
ORCHARD MUNICIPAL CODE, REPEALING ORDINANCE 1479, AMENDING
CHAPTER 20.12 (DEFINITIONS), AMENDING SECTION 20.38 (OVERLAY
DISTRICTS), AMENDING CHAPTER 20.100 (DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS -
DESIGN GUIDELINES), AMENDING CHAPTER 20.124 (DEVELOPMENT
STANDARDS - PARKING AND CIRCULATION), AMENDING CHAPTER
20.128 (DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS - LANDSCAPING); PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY AND CORRECTIONS; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
WHEREAS, on June 13, 2017, the Port Orchard City Council adopted Ordinance
019-17 establishing a new unified development code (Title 20 POMC); and
WHEREAS, on June 27, 2017, the Port Orchard City Council adopted Ordinance
022-17 which created new Chapter 20.139 (Single-Family Residential, Duplex and
Residential Fence Design Standards); and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to establish additional design standard
requirements that will apply to commercial, multifamily residential and mixed-use
development; and
WHEREAS, City staff, in conjunction with consultants and a design standards
committee, have developed design standards for commercial, multifamily residential and
mixed-use development, to be codified as Chapter 20.127 (Design Standards); and
WHEREAS, the adoption of Chapter 20.127 requires the repeal of a number of
existing code sections in Title 20 that address guidelines and standards for building and
site design, parking and landscaping; and
WHEREAS, on January 2, 2018, the City submitted to the Department of
Commerce a 60-day request for review of the proposed Chapter 20.127, pursuant to RCW
36.70A.106(1); and
WHEREAS, on January 10, 2018, the Planning Commission held a duly-noticed
public hearing on the proposed adoption of minor revisions and corrections to Title 20,
and public testimony was received, and the Planning Commission recommended approval
of the proposed adoption; and
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WHEREAS, on January 12, 2018, the City's SEPA official issued a determination of
non-significance for the proposed Chapter 20.127, and there have been no appeals; and
WHEREAS, the design standards in Chapter 20.127 implement numerous
comprehensive plan goals and policies, including:
Policy LU-3: Update and establish building and site design standards that
support an attractive and functional built environment in all areas of the City.
Policy LU-25: Incorporate the following principles in planning for commercial
areas:
• Create lively and attractive places at a human scale.
• Support a mix of retail, office, and residential uses in multistory structures.
• Create transitions between commercial areas and surrounding residential
neighborhoods.
• Protect residential areas from excessive noise, exterior lighting, glare, visual
nuisances, and other conditions that detract from the quality of the living environment.
• Encourage multi-modal transportation options, especially during peak traffic
periods.
• Promote an intensity and density of land uses sufficient to support effective
transit and pedestrian activity.
• Promote a street pattern that provides through connections, pedestrian and
vehicular access.
• Establish urban and architectural design standards that support an attractive
and functional pedestrian environment, such as block size limits and requiring street
facing windows and doors.
• Encourage pedestrian travel to and within commercial areas by providing:
• Safe and attractive walkways.
• Close groupings of land uses.
• Parking lot design that provides safe walking routes and pedestrian
connections between adjacent properties.
• Off-street surface parking to the backs or sides of buildings to maximize
pedestrian access from the sidewalk(s).
Policy LU-28: In conjunction with the proposed Centers strategy, enhance
downtown Port Orchard's role as the center of the South Kitsap region, reflecting the
following principles in development standards and land use plans:
• Encourage land uses that support transit centers and promote pedestrian
activity.
• Promote a mix of uses, including retail, office, and housing.
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• Encourage uses that will provide both daytime and evening activities.
• Support civic, cultural, and entertainment activities.
• Provide sufficient public open space and recreational opportunities.
• Enhance, and provide access to, the waterfront.
• Develop enhanced design guidelines and design review requirements that
promote attractive, pedestrian-scale development and redevelopment within the City's
historic downtown area.
Policy CN-20: Adopt design standards for Gateways.
Policy CN-24: Create an aesthetically pleasing entryway to the City with the use
of high-quality signs, artwork, and landscaping.
Policy HS-19: Consider commercial building design standards that establish and
protect neighborhood character.
Policy TR-81: Develop design guidelines and standards for street wise
landscaping, sidewalks, and maintenance within new developments.
Policy TR-104: Restore/create unique neighborhood aesthetics via formation of
distinctive streetscapes and traffic controlling devices.
Land Use Goal 7: Encourage the development of active, vibrant, and attractive
destinations throughout the community.
Housing Goal 6: Formulate and implement innovative development regulations
and design standards that maintain and strengthen neighborhood character.
Transportation Goal 18: Provide aesthetically pleasing streets; now, therefore,
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT ORCHARD, WASHINGTON, DO ORDAIN AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The City Council adopts all of the "Whereas" sections of this ordinance as
findings in support of this ordinance.
SECTION 2. New Chapter 20.127 Adopted. The commercial, multifamily residential and
mixed-use development regulations, to be codified as Chapter 20.127 POMC, attached as Exhibit
1 hereto and incorporated fully herein by this reference, is hereby adopted in its entirety.
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SECTION 3. Ordinance 1478 Repealed. Ordinance 1478 (Designating Port Orchard
Boulevard as a Limited Access Road) is hereby repealed in its entirety.
SECTION 4. POMC Chapter 20.12 Revised. Chapter 20.12 (Definitions) of the Port
Orchard Municipal Code is hereby revised to include the following additional definitions:
"Articulation" shall mean the giving of emphasis to architectural elements (like windows,
balconies, entries, etc.) that create a complementary pattern or rhythm, dividing large buildings
into smaller identifiable pieces. See POMC 20.127.430 for articulation standards.
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"Articulation interval" shall mean the measure of articulation, the distance before
architectural elements repeat. See POMC 20.127.430 for articulation standards.
"Blank wall" shall mean a wall (including building facades and retaining walls) over 10 feet
in height and with a horizontal length greater than 15 feet and which does not include a
transparent window or door.
"Block frontage" refers to the portion of a property that fronts onto a street or other
public right-of-way. This includes the front yard and the building facade facing the street.
"Cornice" shall mean a horizontal molding projecting along the top of a wall or building.
"Departure" shall mean a provision allowing applicants to propose alternative means of
compliance with a specific standard on a voluntary basis provided they meet the "purpose" of
the standards. See POMC 20.127.060 for departure standards.
"Fenestration" shall mean the design, proportioning, and disposition of windows and
other exterior openings of a building.
"Front-loaded" shall mean a dwelling unit with an attached private garage that faces a
public street or highway.
"Habitable floor" shall mean any floor used or able to be converted to use for living
purposes, which includes working, sleeping, eating, cooking, or recreation, or a combination
thereof. A floor useable only for storage or parking is not a habitable floor. An unfinished
basement or attic which could be finished and converted to habitable space must be counted as
a habitable floor.
"High visibility street corners" shall mean special sites identified in the community design
framework maps (see POMC 20.127.130 for the location of street corners that warrant the
special design standards set forth in POMC 20.127.250).
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"Level I, II, or III Improvements" refer to different thresholds for site improvements,
building remodels, and additions that are used to determine the levels of compliance needed for
the design standards in Chapter 20.127 POMC. See POMC 20.127.020(2) for details.
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"Modulation" shall mean stepping forward or backwards a portion of the fagade as a
means to articulate or add visual interest to the fagade.
"Pedestrian-oriented space" shall mean a courtyard or plaza space of varying sizes
serving commercial or a mixture of uses that meets the criteria of POMC 20.127.350(4).!
i "Roofline" shall mean the highest edge of the roof or the top of a parapet, whichever
establishes the top line of the structure when viewed in a horizontal plane.I
"Streetscape" shall mean the space between the buildings on either side of a street that
defines its character. The elements of a streetscape include block frontage, building fagades,
landscaping (trees, yards, bushes, plantings, etc.), sidewalks, street paving, street furniture
(benches, kiosks, trash receptacles, fountains, etc.), signs, awnings, and street lighting.
"Storefront" shall mean the ground floor fagade of a commercial use adjacent to a
sidewalk or internal walkway.
"Transom window" shall mean a window or series of windows placed above a beam
separating a door and/or storefront windows. Transom windows are often placed above a canopy
or marquee to admit extra daylight into a commercial space.
"Transparency" shall mean the degree to which rays of light may transmit through a
substance. For storefronts and other ground level non-residential uses, transparency also refers
to the ability to see through the window and into the building as clarified in POMC 20.127.140.
"Trellis" shall mean a frame supporting open latticework used as a screen or a support for
growing vines or plants.
"Vertical building modulation" shall mean a stepping back or projecting forward of the
vertical walls of a building face, within specified intervals of building width and depth, as a means
of breaking up the apparent bulk of a structure's continuous exterior walls.
"Weather protection" shall mean a horizontal structure above pedestrian areas such as
sidewalks and building entries that blocks rain, snow, and sun.
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SECTION 5. POMC Sections 20.38.200-.230 Revised. Sections 20.38.200 through
20.38.230 (Downtown Overlay District) of the Port Orchard Municipal Code are hereby revised
to read as follows:
;20.38.200 Downtown overlay district (map designation -dod).
i (1) Boundaries. The DOD consists of three subareas: the central DOD subarea, DOD west
gateway subarea, and DOD east gateway subarea shall consist of all real property located within
the area depicted on the comprehensive plan DOD map.
(2) Purposes. The purposes of the DOD are to:
(a) Implement the land use goals and policies set forth in the comprehensive plan.
(b) Provide for the development of an integrated mixed use downtown district that
contains office, service, retail, residential and recreational uses within close proximity to one
another.
i (c) Maintain view corridors.
(d) Identify significant environmental impacts and ensure appropriate mitigation with
attention to sustainable or low-impact development.
(e) Encourage environmentally sustainable development.
(f) Promote economic development and job creation in the city, (g) Encourage the
development of buildings with ground floor retail with office uses and residential uses above.
(h) Promote a walkable community by encouraging the development of public open
spaces, waterfront access, and pedestrian-friendly walkways.
(I) Locate and combine parking areas in order to minimize the number of points of access
to and from Bay Street.
(n) Promote greater public transportation availability within Port Orchard and across
Sinclair Inlet during the evening hours to improve access to/from the DOD.
20.38.201 DOD - Permitted uses.
All uses listed below are permitted uses. No other uses shall be permitted in the central
DOD, unless said use is accessory to the principal permitted use or uses. Uses within the east and
west "gateways" may include uses allowed within the underlying zone or any of the central DOD
uses.
(1) On lots that do not abut Bay Street the following are permitted uses:
(a) Single-family attached dwellings.
(b) Multifamily dwellings above the first floor, including but not limited to condominiums.
(c) Amusement/entertainment including but not limited to theaters, bowling,
amusement arcades; but excluding adult entertainment.
(d) Barbers and beauticians.
(e) Bed and breakfasts.
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Page 7 of 16
(f) Boat dealers; provided no inventory shall be allowed on site.
(g) Conference centers.
(h) Daycare.
(i) Dock.
(j) Commercial recreation.
(k) General business services.
(l) Health services, including offices, patient clinics, and medical/dental laboratories.
(m) Hotels and motels.
(n) Library.
(o) Liquor and wine stores.
(p) Marinas and marine supply.
(q) Museums.
(r) Parks.
(s) Parking lots and parking structures.
(t) Post office.
(u) Professional offices and services, including financial, accounting, and legal.
(v) Public agency offices.
(w) Retail sales and services listed as permitted uses in a commercial or mixed use zones,
except for motor vehicle dealers, auto supply stores, gas stations, boat dealers, adult
entertainment, and fuel dealers.
(x) Trails.
(y) Water transportation facilities.
(z) Medical marijuana cooperatives as permitted in this chapter.
(2) On lots that abut Bay Street the following are permitted uses:
(a) Single-family attached dwellings above the first floor.
(b) Multifamily dwellings above the first floor, including but not limited to condominiums.
(c) Amusement/entertainment including but not limited to theaters, bowling,
amusement arcades; but excluding adult entertainment.
(d) Barbers and beauticians.
(e) Bed and breakfasts above the first floor.
(f) Boat dealers; provided no inventory shall be allowed on site.
(g) Conference centers.
(h) Daycare above the first floor.
(i) Dock.
(j) Commercial recreation.
(k) General business services, except bail bonds and similar uses under SIC Code 7389 are
prohibited from the ground floor and must be located above the ground floor.
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i (I) Health services, including offices, patient clinics, and medical/dental laboratories
above the first floor.
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(m) Hotels and motels.
(n) Library.
(o) Liquor and wine stores.
(p) Marinas and marine supply.
(q) Museums.
(r) Parks.
(s) Parking lots and parking structures.
(t) Post office.
(u) Professional offices and services, including but not limited to financial, accounting, and
legal as follows:
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(i) Between Frederick Ave and Harrison Ave: Permitted above the first floor.
(ii) On lots located west of Frederick Ave and East of Harrison Ave: Permitted.
(v) Public agency offices above the first floor.
(w) Retail sales and services listed as permitted uses in a commercial or mixed use zone,
except for motor vehicle dealers, auto supply stores, gas stations, boat dealers, adult
entertainment, and fuel dealers.
(x) Trails.
(y) Water transportation facilities.
(z) Tattoo parlors shall only be allowed on or above the second floor.
(aa) Medical marijuana cooperatives as permitted in this Title.
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20.38.203 DOD - Conditional uses.
Uses that require a conditional use permit:
(1) Any retail store or complex of retail stores with more than 40,000 square feet of total
combined floor area that is otherwise allowed as a permitted use;
20.38.204 DOD - Conditional uses, decision criteria.
Applicable standards for granting a conditional use permit are as follows:
(1) Meets the criteria set forth in Chapter 20.50 POMC;
20.38.205 DOD - Lot area.
No minimum lot size is required within the central DOD area.
20.38.206 DOD - Lot coverage.
Development shall comply with the maximum land coverage requirements for the
underlying zone, as set forth in Subtitle VI of this Title; provided, there is no maximum lot
coverage for development on either side of Bay Street between Harrison Avenue and Orchard
Avenue.
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Page 9 of 16
20.38.207 DOD - Minimum setback requirements.
(1) Except as otherwise required by the shoreline master program and critical areas
ordinance, as now or hereafter amended, there is no minimum setback from a property line that
does not abut a street right-of-way or alley.
(2) There is no minimum setback from a property line that abuts a street right-of-way
provided there is a 10-foot-wide pedestrian walkway. If there is inadequate right-of-way to
establish a 10-foot-wide pedestrian walkway, then the building shall be set back a sufficient
distance to accommodate a 10-foot-wide pedestrian walkway.
(3) The setback from a property line that abuts an alley shall comply with the
requirements for the underlying zone as set forth in Subtitle VI.
20.38.208 DOD-Structure and measurements.
(1) For purposes of the DOD, structure and building height shall include: Roof forms and
decorative elements not intended for occupancy; mechanical penthouses and elevator overruns
and machine rooms; parapets; and all other roof structures.
(2) Where existing grade and finished grade are different, the lower of either existing
grade or finished grade shall be used to calculate vertical height. For those lots that are between
Bay Street and Prospect Street/Alley and currently abut Bay Street, the existing Bay Street
elevation shall be the basis for measuring structure height.
(3) For those lots within the DOD abutting Bay Street, the Bay Street elevation shall be
the basis for measuring building height.
(4) For those properties in the DOD gateway abutting Bethel Avenue, Bethel Avenue shall
be the basis for measuring building height.
20.38.209 DOD - Allowable building heights.
Building heights may vary based on location of parcel within the DOD and by the
opportunity to achieve a higher structure if certain amenities are incorporated into the
development design.
20.38.210 DOD - Heights within the central DOD and DOD east and west gateways on the north
side of Bay Street.
The maximum allowable building height limit shall be 27 feet, which may be increased up
to 39 feet when the applicant provides water access and/or views amenities or other special
amenities in accordance with POMC 20.38.214.
20.38.211 DOD - Heights within the central DOD and DOD east and west gateways south of Bay
Street.
For lots that are between Bay Street and Prospect Street/Alley and abut Bay Street, the
maximum allowable building height limit shall be 39 feet, which may be increased up to 55 feet
Ordinance No. 008-18
Page 10 of 16
\when the applicant: provides water access and/or views amenities or other special amenities in
accordance with POMC 20.38.214.
20.38.212 DOD - Heights for lots that do not abut Bay Street.
The maximum allowable building height limit shall be 27 feet, which may be increased up
to 39 feet when the applicant: provides water access and/or views amenities or other special
amenities in accordance with POMC 20.38.214.
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\20.38.213 DOD - Gateways heights for those lots abutting Bethel Avenue.
The maximum allowed building height limit shall be 39 feet, which may be increased up
to 55 feet when the applicant provides water access and/or views amenities or other special
amenities in accordance with POMC 20.38.214.
20.38.214 DOD - Amenities for maximum building and structure height.
Maximum building heights may be increased in accordance with POMC 20.38.210 to
20.38.213 when water access and/or views amenities or other special amenities are provided as
prescribed in this section. The amenities listed below may not be suitable for all sites and may
require additional city and state approvals (i.e shoreline permits). Height bonuses will not be
approved in the absence of required permits when applicable. The amenities listed below are
weighted using a point system. In order for a height increase to be granted pursuant to POMC
20.38.210 to 20.38.213, an applicant shall provide amenities worth at least 3 points from the
following list:
(1) Construct a public water access corridor and sidewalk through the site or along the site's
edge where no such access preexists. The sidewalk shall be a minimum of 12-feet in width
with public access provided in an easement or through another legal instrument. (2
points).
(2) For Waterfront Development, construct a water viewing platform at the water's edge
measuring at least 400 square feet. (2 points)
(3) For Waterfront development. Construction of 14-foot paved pedestrian pathway along
the entire waterfront in a 20-foot easement. (1-point per 100 lineal feet of pathway
constructed. For properties less than 100 linear feet in width, 1 point shall be awarded
for a pathway that spans the property.)
(4) Construct a water feature. (1 point)
(5) For waterfront development, a harbor access opportunity by means of public access to a
pier constructed in a manner consistent with the city's shoreline master program and
connected by a minimum five-foot-wide public pathway to the frontage street. A
minimum of 10 feet of open water on each side shall surround the pier. (2 points)
(6) For waterfront development, a harbor access opportunity by means of public access to a
small boat landing available for transient use by rowboats, canoes, dinghies, kayaks, etc.,
Ordinance No. 008-18
Page 11 of 16
constructed in a manner consistent with the city's shoreline master program and
connected by a minimum five-foot-wide public pathway to the frontage street. A
minimum of 10 feet of open water on each side shall surround the small boat landing. (1
point)
(7) Construct an enclosed plaza (such as an atrium or galleria) consisting of a publicly
accessible continuous open space located within a building and covered to provide
overhead weather protection while admitting natural daylight and which meets the
following design standards:
a. The space has a dimension ratio of not more than 5:1 (length: width);
b. Seating is provided at one seat for each 100 square feet of public space;
c. At least five percent of the area must be landscaped;
d. Must be accessible to the public at least during normal business hours;
e. Must be signed (interior and exterior) to identify the enclosed plaza is available
for public use; and
f. Must be visible from the building's primary public entrance. (1 point)
(8) Public Restroom. A room or rooms containing toilets and lavatories for the use of the
general public, with only limited control for purposes of personal safety and which are:
a. Accessible to the public at least during normal business hours;
b. ADA Accessible;
c. Signed for Public Use;
d. Not Otherwise required by law. (1 Point)
20.38.215 DOD - Parking requirements.
The general parking standards set forth in Chapter 20.124 POMC shall apply unless a more
specific provision is set forth in the DOD specific parking standards in Subtitle VI.
20.38.221 DOD - Covered walkway.
All development within the central DOD either fronting Bay Street or fronting Sidney
Avenue north of Bay Street shall meet the following additional standard:
(1) Existing City-Owned Covered Walkway. With respect to property where there is an
existing city-owned covered walkway, a property owner who is constructing a new building shall
either replace the existing city-owned covered walkway with an identical structure or propose an
alternative form of weather protection such as a canopy, second floor exterior deck, or similar
protective structure that extends not less than five feet over the sidewalk. The building owner
shall be responsible for maintaining and repairing any such alternative structure in an attractive
manner for the life of the building. Vinyl or soft plastic canopies shall not be allowed. In addition,
a performance bond shall be required in an amount to be determined by the city engineer to
assure that the existing city-owned covered walkway on the adjacent properties is not damaged
and the new structure is built as designed and approved.
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(2) No Existing City-Owned Covered Walkway. With respect to property where there is no
existing city-owned covered walkway, at least 50 percent of the building frontage on either the
Bay Street or Sidney Avenue side of the building located north of Bay Street shall include weather
protection in the form of a canopy, second floor exterior deck, or similar protective structure that
extends not less than five feet over the sidewalk. The building owner shall be responsible for
maintaining and repairing any such alternative structure in an attractive manner for the life of
the building. Vinyl or soft plastic canopies shall not be allowed.
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20.38.223 DOD - Landscaping requirements.
The general landscape standards set forth in this Title shall apply unless a more restrictive
provision is set forth in the DOD specific landscape standards.
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20.38.224 DOD - Pedestrian walkway requirements.
Pedestrian walkways within the central DOD shall meet the following requirements:
(1) If the subject property is adjacent to a street, it shall provide a pedestrian walkway
that shall be constructed of concrete or unit pavers, a minimum of 10 feet in width as measured
from the face of the street curb to the face of the structure, and shall extend the entire frontage
of the property adjacent to a street. If the pedestrian walkway cannot be accommodated within
existing public right-of-way, the difference shall be made up with a public easement over private
property or right of way dedication. Buildings may cantilever over the pedestrian walkways
provided the building extension does not overpower the pedestrian space or create a tunnel,
cave or similarly confined spatial effect. Additional city approvals may be required to allow a
building to project into the right of way.
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SECTION 6. POMC Sections 20.38.600-.633 Repealed. Sections 20.38.600 through
20.38.633 (Tremont Street Corridor Overlay District) of the Port Orchard Municipal Code are
hereby repealed in their entirety.
SECTION 7. POMC Sections 20.124.200 - .240 Repealed. Sections 20.124.200 through
20.124.240 (Development Standards - Parking and Circulation) of the Port Orchard Municipal
Code are hereby repealed in their entirety.
SECTION 8. POMC Sections 20.128.230 - .239 Repealed. Sections 20.128.230 through
20.128.239 (Development Standards - Landscaping) of the Port Orchard Municipal Code are
hereby repealed in their entirety.
SECTION 9. POMC Chapter 20.100 Revised. POMC Chapter 20.100 of the Port Orchard
Municipal Code is hereby revised to read as follows:
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Chapter 20.100
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS - DESIGN GUIDELINES
Sections:
20.100.010 Purpose.
20.100.020 Block and lot layouts.
20.100.030 Roadway elements.
20.100.010 Purpose.
(1) The purpose of this section is to ensure that developments are compact, pedestrian-
friendly, provide necessary infrastructure and services, and contribute to the character of the
town and surrounding neighborhoods, by providing building and site design standards that:
(a) Reduce the visual impact of large residential buildings from adjacent streets and
properties;
(b) Enhance the aesthetic character of large residential buildings;
(c) Contain sufficient flexibility of standards to encourage creative and innovative site and
building design;
(d) Meet the on-site recreation needs of project residents;
(e) Enhance aesthetics and environmental protection through site design; and
(f) Allow for continued or adaptive re-use of historic resources while preserving their
historic and architectural integrity.
(2) These guidelines do not alter the land uses or densities allowed in the underlying
zoning districts defined in this code. Projects shall comply with all relevant criteria set forth in
this chapter.
20.100.020 Block and lot layouts.
(1) Blocks should have sufficient width to provide for a maximum of two tiers of lots of
appropriate depths. Exceptions should be permitted in blocks adjacent to major streets,
railroads, waterways, or involving unique site conditions that make this requirement impractical.
(2) Lots to be created within a proposed site plan or subdivision should comply with the
following requirements:
(a) Every lot should have a minimum frontage of 25 feet on a public or privately dedicated
right-of-way. A repair and maintenance access should be provided to all lots by site plan or plat
easement and property deed. Required easements shall be shown on the face of the site plan or
plat.
(b) Lot lines should be at right angles to street lines or radial to curvilinear streets unless
a variation will result in a better street or lot plan.
(c) Dimensions of corner lots should be large enough to allow for front yard setbacks off
both streets.
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(d) Corner lots should be graded to provide sufficient sight clearance at intersections.
20.100.030 Roadway elements.
(1) Right-of-Way Dedications.
(a) All site plans and subdivisions should provide direct access to at least one existing
improved and publicly dedicated street.
(b) When a proposed site plan or subdivision is abutting an existing street or streets with
a right-of-way of lesser width than specified by city code, the applicant may be required as a
condition of approval to deed additional right-of-way width and to improve said right-of-way to
the design specifications of the city engineer. The city may require dedication of right-of-way in
excess of standards in the following cases:
(i) Where additional width is necessary to maintain continuity with the adjoining rights-
of-way; and
(ii) Where additional width is necessary to maintain alignment with adjoining streets and
sidewalks improvements or to allow for provision of sidewalks or bicycle facilities.
(iii) Dead-end streets shall be used on access streets only and shall terminate in a cul-de-
sac. Streets which dead-end and which would normally be continued if the adjacent property
were developed should be shown as temporary turnarounds. The land beyond the normal right-
of-way for such streets shall revert to the abutting property owners when the street is continued.
(c) Half-streets shall not be allowed.
(2) Street Layouts.
(a) The street within and adjacent to a site plan or subdivision should be classified and
designed to comply with the road standards as adopted by city resolution or ordinance,
comprehensive plan and major street map of the city. Major streets should refer to designated
arterial and collector streets and minor streets should refer to access streets and cul-de-sacs.
(b) Proposed streets should extend to the boundary lines of the proposed site plan or
subdivision in order to provide for the future development of adjacent tracts unless prevented
by natural or manmade conditions or unless such extension is determined to be unnecessary or
undesirable by the planning commission or city council.
(c) The street pattern for commercial site plans and subdivisions should be designed to
expedite traffic movement, reduce conflicts between various types of land uses including
pedestrian and bicycle access, and coordinate the location of proposed buildings with vehicular
loading and parking facilities. To the extent practical and feasible, commercial site plans should
provide common driveways and integral access through or between the property and adjacent
properties and surrounding residential neighborhoods.
(d) The street pattern for industrial site plans and subdivisions should be designed to
expedite traffic movement, reduce conflicts between various types of land uses including
pedestrian access, and coordinate the location of proposed buildings with airport, railroad,
waterfront, and vehicular loading and parking facilities.
Ordinance No. 008-18
Page 15 of 16
(3) Street Signage. Public street names shall conform to the city of Port Orchard system.
Street signs shall be installed as designated by the city engineer before final site plan or plat
approval.
SECTION 10. Severability. If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance
should be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such
invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity of constitutionality of any other
section, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance.
SECTION 11. Corrections. Upon the approval of the city attorney, the city clerk and/or
code publisher is authorized to make any necessary technical corrections to this ordinance,
including but not limited to the correction of scrivener's/clerical errors, references, ordinance
numbering, section/subsection numbers, and any reference thereto.
SECTION 12. Effective Date. This ordinance shall be published in the official newspaper
of the city and shall take full force and effect on April 1, 2018. A summary of this ordinance in
the form of the ordinance title may be published in lieu of publishing the ordinance in its entirety.
PASSED by the City Council of the City of Port Orchard, APPROVED by the Mayor and attested
by the City Clerk in authentication of such passage this 27th day of February 2018.
Robert Putaansuu, Mayor
ATTEST:SPONSOR:
/ A
Brandy Rinearson, MMC, City Clerk Bek Ashby, Councilmember
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
! i SEAL L I
VJv ,,f4/'on Cates, City Attorney
March 9, 2018PUBLISHED:
EFFECTIVE DATE: April 1, 2018
Ordinance No. 008-18
Page 16 of 16
ATTACHED: EXHIBIT 1 (CHAPTER 20.127, DESIGN STANDARDS)
i
1
PORT ORCHARD MUNICIPAL CODE
CHAPTER 20.127
DESIGN STANDARDS
ARTICLE I INTRODUCTION
20.127.010 Purpose.
20.127.020 Applicability and compliance.
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.
ARTICLE II BLOCK FRONTAGE STANDARDS
20.127.100 Purpose.
20.127.110 Applicability and compliance.
20.127.120 How to use this chapter.
20.127.130 Community design framework maps.
20.127.140 About the transparency standards.
20.127.150 Storefront block frontage standards.
20.127.160 Landscaped block frontage standards
20.127.170 Varied block frontage standards.
20.127.180 Marine block frontage standards.
20.127.190 Gateway block frontage standards.
20.127.200 Internal roadway storefront frontage standards.
20.127.210 Other block frontage standards.
20.127.220 Trail/Park frontage standards.
20.127.230 Special residential frontage standards along sidewalks and internal walkways.
20.127.240 Where a property fronts onto multiple streets/frontage designations.
20.127.250 High visibility street corners.
20.127.260 Community design framework master plan.
ARTICLE III SITE PLANNING STANDARDS
20.127.300 Purpose.
20.127.310 Applicability and compliance.
20.127.320 Relationship to adjacent properties.
20.127.330 Non-motorized circulation and design.
20.127.340 Vehicular circulation and parking.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
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Page 2 of 114
20.127.350 On-site open space.
20.127.360 Location and design of service areas and mechanical equipment.
ARTICLE IV BUILDING DESIGN STANDARDS
20.127.400 Purpose.
20.127.410 Applicability and compliance.
20.127.420 Building character.
20.127.430 Building massing and articulation.
20.127.440 Building details.
20.127.450 Building materials.
20.127.460 Blank wall treatments
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
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CHAPTER 20.127
Article I - INTRODUCTION
20.127.010 - Purpose.
This chapter implements the Port Orchard Comprehensive Plan. Overall, the purpose of this chapter is
to:
(1) Provide clear objectives for those embarking on the planning and design of development projects in
Port Orchard.
(2) Preserve and protect the public health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Port Orchard.
(3) Ensure that new commercial and multi-household development is of high quality and beneficially
contributes to Port Orchard’s character.
(4) Upgrade the visual appearance of Port Orchard’s principal vehicular corridors.
(5) Ensure that new developments within existing neighborhoods are compatible with, and enhance the
character of, Port Orchard’s neighborhoods.
(6) Promote an increase in walking and bicycling throughout the city.
(7) Enhance the livability of Port Orchard’s residential developments.
(8) Maintain and enhance property values within Port Orchard.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
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20.127.020 - Applicability and compliance.
(1) Applicability. The provisions of this chapter apply to all development within Port Orchard,
except:
(a) Detached single-family and two-family(duplex) dwellings in any configuration. Single Family and
Duplex Design Standards are found in Chapter 20.139 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) 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 non
Employment – Industrial/Office properties by a minimum 20-foot wide landscaped buffer
meeting the requirements of Table 20.128.296 for Urban Buffers – 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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
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(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 façade’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 non-conformity
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 20.127.450.
(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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
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Figure 20.127.020(3)
Examples of improvement types and required compliance.
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(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.
20.127.030 - Optional Design Review Board project recommendation.
Applicants for development subject to the design standards contained in this chapter may optionally
request that the city’s Design Review Board provide project review and a recommendation on the
application.
When requested by the applicant, the Design Review Board shall review permit applications for
consistency with this chapter and make a recommendation to the director or hearing examiner, as
appropriate to the permit type, who shall give substantial weight to the recommendation of the Design
Review Board as long as that recommendation does not conflict with the provisions of this chapter and
is consistent with its purposes. Requests for optional Design Review Board project recommendations
shall be made at the time of permit application submittal.
20.127.040 - Supplemental submittal requirements.
A pre-application meeting is strongly recommended to determine which of the below listed
supplemental application materials are needed for a specific development in order to determine
compliance with the design standards. Applications subject to review under this chapter may be deemed
incomplete if they are missing any of the following materials, as needed to determine compliance with
the design standards:
(1) Block frontage standards.
(a) Identification of the block frontage type(s) applicable to the development.
(b) A site plan and/or other plans illustrating proposed improvements and how the block frontage
standards are being met, including (where applicable):
(i) Building envelope location and setbacks/dimensions.
(ii) Site elevation/topography at minimum two-foot intervals.
(iii) Parking location and vehicular access design.
(iv) Percentage of street frontage that is occupied by parking areas and garage entries.
(v) Weather protection elements and dimensions/percentages.
(vi) Façade transparency elements and dimensions/percentages.
(vii) Storefront interior dimensions, including floor to ceiling height and storefront depth.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
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(viii) Landscaping elements (common or scientific name and size) and design (layout and
location).
(ix) Right-of-way improvements and dimensions (including planting strip and sidewalk).
(x) Undeveloped areas, including critical areas and associated buffers).
(2) Site planning standards. A site plan and/or other plans illustrating proposed improvements and how
the site planning standards are being met, including (where applicable):
(a) Building envelope location and setbacks/dimensions.
(b) Site elevation/topography at minimum two-foot intervals.
(c) Building elevations of all façades, including the location of doors, windows, and balconies.
(d) The location and height of adjacent structures within 25 feet of the property proposed for
development.
(e) Non-motorized circulation elements, including materials, dimensions, and necessary details.
(f) Parking location and vehicular access design, including materials, curb edge, lane configurations,
dimensions, and other relevant details to support compliance.
(g) Existing and proposed pedestrian-oriented space, usable residential open space, and other
recreational features, including design elements, materials, and necessary details.
(h) Location, design, and configuration of service areas and mechanical equipment.
(i) Landscaping elements (common or scientific name and size) and design (layout and location).
(j) Right-of-way improvements and dimensions (including planting strip and sidewalk).
(3) Building design standards. Graphics illustrating proposed improvements and how the building design
standards are being met, including (where applicable):
(a) Building elevations showing:
(i) Exterior materials.
(ii) Doors and windows and associated design details.
(iii) Roofline design and dimensions.
(iv) Details on proposed exterior materials and finish.
(v) Blank wall treatment details.
(b) Building plan view drawings showing:
(i) Façade articulation and dimensions.
(ii) Entry locations and design.
(c) Three dimensional graphics emphasizing:
(i) Building massing and articulation.
(ii) How the development (proposed improvements) fit within the surrounding context. The
graphic must illustrate the general massing of buildings within 50 feet of the site.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
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(4) Departures. If any departures are requested, such elements must be clearly identified in the above
materials. Documentation to support how such proposed departures meet the applicable approval
criteria must be included.
20.127.050 - Pre-submittal design review.
(1) It is the city’s intent to offer a pre-submittal design review process to allow applicants to vet their
building and site designs prior to completing full architectural and engineering construction plans
required for technical plan review and permit application submittal. Applicants seeking pre-submittal
design review may request that a preliminary review of conceptual site and/or building plans be
conducted by the director o evaluate consistency with the design standards found in this chapter.
(2) Anyone seeking pre-submittal design review shall:
(a) Complete an application form.
(b) Pay the appropriate fee as set by resolution.
(b) Submit conceptual plans along with the materials listed in POMC 20.127.040 to the Department
of Community Development.
(3) The director shall review the request for pre-submittal design review and provide a pre-submittal
design review letter and/or marked up plans describing which portions of the conceptual design
meet and do not meet the design standards
(4) Any letter and/or marked up plans generated in a pre-submittal design review shall not be
considered a final decision and are only intended to assist an applicant in the preparation of
complete application materials.
20.127.060 - Departures.
(1) Overview and purpose. This chapter provides for a number of specific departure opportunities to
development standards. For brevity in tables, departure opportunities are noted with the symbol.
The purpose of this section is to provide applicants with the option of proposing alternative design
treatments, provided such departures meet the “purpose” of the particular standard and any
additional departure criteria set forth for the particular departure opportunity.
(2) Departures are voluntary. This provision allows the flexibility for applicants to propose alternative
designs on a voluntary basis as provided herein.
(3) Variances versus departures. Variances, as set forth in Chapter 20.28 POMC, require conditions in
place on the property, not created by the property owner, that create practical difficulties or
unnecessary hardships in complying with the applicable development regulations. Such conditions
are not necessary in order to qualify for departures, which can be proposed as an alternative to
complying with specific design standards in this chapter provided they comply with approval criteria
listed in subsection (6) of this section.
(4) Applicability. Departure opportunities are available only to those specific standards that allow for
departures.
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(5) Review procedures. Departure requests are to be reviewed in conjunction with the underlying
development permit and processed as set forth in POMC 20.127.020(1) and Chapters 20.22, 20.24,
20.25 POMC.
(6) Approval criteria. Project applicants must successfully demonstrate to the reviewing authority (the
director or hearing examiner, as appropriate to the permit type) how the proposed departure
meets the purpose(s) of the standard and other applicable departure criteria that apply to the
specific standard.
(7) Documentation. For each departure approved, the reviewing authority must make findings that
document the manner in which the departure satisfies the approval criteria in subsection (6) above.
The findings are to be maintained with project application records for the purpose of providing
consistency in decision-making by the city.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
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Article II - BLOCK FRONTAGE STANDARDS
20.127.100 - Purpose.
(1) To provide standards to implement the Comprehensive Plan and applicable adopted sub-area plans.
(2) To design sites and orient buildings with an emphasis on compatible development and creating a
comfortable walking environment.
(3) To provide standards that recognize the need for a system of streets and block frontages.
20.127.110 - Applicability and compliance.
The provisions of this Article apply to all development within Port Orchard, except detached single-
family and two-family(duplex) dwellings in any configuration. (Single Family and Duplex Design Standards
are found in Chapter 20.139 POMC) Also:
(1) Applicability.
(a) See POMC 20.127.020(1) for clarification on the types of development to which these standards
apply.
(b) See POMC 20.127.020(2) for the relationship between the provisions in this Article and other
documents and codes.
(c) See POMC 20.127.020(3) for the application of building additions and remodels and site
improvements.
(2) The default block frontage for new streets in commercial and mixed-use zones is Other (POMC
20.127.210) unless a designation is already provided. The default block frontage for undesignated
streets within annexed land is Varied (POMC 20.127.170).
(3) The block frontage designations apply to development on both sides of the street except where
otherwise specified on the maps. For example, on a street with two designations, the designation on
the east side of the street applies to properties on the east side of the street.
20.127.120 - How to use this chapter.
(1) About the maps. The maps together with the block frontage standards in POMC 20.127.150-250
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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
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(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.
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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 façade
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
façades, screen blank wall
surfaces, and screen
parking
• Provide minimum façade
transparency for non-
residential uses (variable
depending on building
setback)
• Minimum façade
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 that a
10’ 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
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
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Table 20.127.120(2)
Summary of block frontage types.
Design Cross
Section Example Parking Location Other Key Provisions Other Storefront or Landscape
• No parking lot location standards, except that a
10’ buffer of landscaping between the street and
off street parking areas
• Special façade
transparency and weather
protection provisions
• At least one building
entrance must be visible
and accessible from the
street
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
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(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, Code Amendments.
(b) Community Design Framework Master Plan per POMC 20.127.260.
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(1-16) 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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
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Figure 20.127.130(1)
Map #1 - Downtown West.
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Figure 20.127.130(2)
Map #2 - Downtown East.
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Figure 20.127.130(3)
Map #3 - County Campus.
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Figure 20.127.130(4)
Map #4 - Lower Mile Hill.
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Figure 20.127.130(5)
Map #5 - Upper Mile Hill.
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Figure 20.127.130(6)
Map #6 - Bethel North.
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Figure 20.127.130(7)
Map #7 - Lund Bethel.
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Figure 20.127.130(8)
Map #8 - Bethel South.
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Figure 20.127.130(9)
Map #9 - Sedgwick Bethel SR16.
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Figure 20.127.130(10)
Map #10 - Bethel Cedar.
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Figure 20.127.130(11)
Map #11 - Bethel Lider.
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Figure 20.127.130(12)
Map #12 - Tremont.
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Figure 20.127.130(13)
Map #13 - Cedar Heights.
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Figure 20.127.130(14)
Map #14 - Sidney Glen.
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Figure 20.127.130(15)
Map #15 - Sidney Sedgwick.
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Figure 20.127.130(16)
Map #16 - McCormick Woods.
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20.127.140 - About the transparency standards.
All block frontage designations contain distinct minimum façade 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 non-residential
and non-storefront
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 façade are
used in the calculations
Other Transparency Provisions
Windows must be transparent
Ground level window area for storefronts
and other non-residential 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.
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Display windows
Display window may be used for up to 50
percent of non-residential 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
are(1)
Integrated display windows Tack-on display cases
Structured parking facilities
Where structured parking facilities occupy a
portion of the façade, any openings
simulating windows may be used to help
comply with transparency requirements.
Parking garage with windows Parking garage without windows
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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)
Storefront vision and key standards.
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(2) Standards. All development as set forth in 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 & Notes
Ground floor
Land use Non-residential uses specified in Chapter
20.46 POMC, except for lobbies associated
with residential or hotel/motel uses on upper
floors.
Floor to ceiling height 15 feet minimum (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.
Façade
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 façade.
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
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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 36 of 114
Table 20.127.150(2)
Storefront block frontage standards.
Element Standards Examples & Notes
reducing the minimum weather protection
depth.
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 feet 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) Façade transparency. The proposed alternative design treatment of façade 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 façade between 30 inches and ten feet above the sidewalk
may be approved with a departure;
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 37 of 114
(c) Weather protection. Other proposed alternative design treatments must provide equivalent
weather protection benefits; and
(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.
(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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 38 of 114
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 the
all development in residential zones.
Figure 20.127.160(1)
Landscaped block frontage vision and key standards.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 39 of 114
(2) Standards. All development as set forth in 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 & Notes
Ground floor:
Land use See Chapter 20.46 POMC for
permitted use details.
Building placement 10’ 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.
Façade transparency 25 percent minimum for buildings
design with ground level non-
residential uses.
15 percent minimum for residential
uses.
Windows must be provided on all
habitable floors of the façade.
Also see POMC 20.127.140 for additional
clarification on transparency standards.
Façade transparency example.
Weather protection Provide weather protection at least 3
feet deep over primary business and
residential entries.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 40 of 114
Table 20.127.160(2)
Landscaped block frontage standards.
Element Standards Examples & Notes
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
façade width.
Provide a 10 feet 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 6-foot minimum sidewalks are
required.
Wider sidewalks may be required
where designated in other code
sections or in the public works
standards.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 41 of 114
(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 mat warrant some flexibility to this standard (particularly in
residential districts).
(b) Façade transparency. The proposed alternative design treatment of façade 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 façade between 30 inches and ten 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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 42 of 114
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.
Storefront Frontage Landscaped Frontage
OR
(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):
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 43 of 114
Table 20.127.170(2)
Varied block frontage standards.
Element Standards Examples & Notes
Building placement Buildings may be placed up to the
sidewalk edge provided they meet
Storefront standards set forth above.
10’ 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.
Façade transparency
Any storefront buildings on these block
frontages must meet the Storefront
block frontage transparency standards
above.
40 percent minimum for buildings
designed with non-residential uses on
the ground floor within 10’ of sidewalk.
25 percent minimum for buildings
designed with non-residential uses on
the ground floor.
15 percent minimum for residential
buildings.
Windows must be provided on all
habitable floors of the façade.
Also see POMC 20.127.140 for additional
clarification on transparency standards.
Façade transparency example - non-
residential use.
Façade transparency example - residential
use.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 44 of 114
(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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 45 of 114
Figure 20.127.170(3)
Stoop examples.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 46 of 114
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 & Notes
Building placement Buildings may be placed up to the
sidewalk edge provided they meet
Storefront standards set forth above.
10 feet 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.
Façade transparency
Any storefront buildings on these block
frontages must meet the Storefront
block frontage transparency standards
above.
40 percent minimum for buildings
designed with non-residential uses on
the ground floor within 10 feet of
sidewalk.
25 percent minimum for buildings
designed with non-residential uses on
the ground floor within 20 feet of the
sidewalk.
Also see POMC 20.127.140 for additional
clarification on transparency standards.
Façade transparency example - non-
residential use.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 47 of 114
Table 20.127.180(2)
Marine block frontage standards.
Element Standards Examples & Notes
15 percent minimum for residential
buildings.
Windows must be provided on all
habitable floors of the façade.
Façade 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 20.127.180(3)(c)).
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-ft minimum buffer
of landscaping must be provided
between the street and off-street
parking areas, which meets the
landscaping requirements of Chapter
20.128. New parking structures must
feature landscaped setbacks at least 10
feet in width.
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Ordinance No. 008-18
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Page 48 of 114
(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) Façade transparency. The proposed alternative design treatment of a façade 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 façade 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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 49 of 114
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 & 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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 50 of 114
Table 20.127.190(2)
Gateway frontage standards.
Element Standards Examples & Notes
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 feet buffer of landscaping between
the street and off street parking areas
meeting the performance standards of
POMC 20.128.
(3) Departure criteria. See the departure criteria for Landscaped frontages, subsection
20.127.160(3).
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 51 of 114
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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 52 of 114
(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
Façade 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)
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 53 of 114
20.127.210 - Other block frontage standards.
(1) Description/purpose. All other block frontages in districts that are not designated in the design
framework maps are provided greater flexibility with regards to the design of development
frontages. These block frontages include a combination of side streets (where most uses front on
other adjacent streets) and service oriented streets (often characterized by industrial or service
types of uses). While there is greater flexibility in the amount of transparency of façade and the
location of surface and structured parking, the purpose of these standards is to ensure that
development frontages along these streets provide visual interest at all observable scales and meet
the design objectives of the city.
(2) Standards. All development as set forth in POMC 20.127.130 with applicable block frontage
designations must comply with standards below (on applicable block frontages):
Table 20.127.210(2)
Other block frontage standards.
Element Standards
Ground floor land use See Chapter 20.46 POMC for permitted use details.
Building placement Where allowed in the applicable zoning district, buildings may be placed up to the
sidewalk edge provided Storefront block frontage standards above are met (except
where otherwise noted herein).
10 feet minimum front setback for other buildings, except where greater setbacks are
specified in the district per Chapter 20.122 POMC.
See POMC 20.127.230 for special design provisions associated with ground level
residential uses adjacent to a sidewalk.
Building entrances Building entrances facing the street are encouraged. At a minimum, at least one
building entry visible and directly accessible from the street is required.
Where buildings are setback from the street, pedestrian connections are required
from the sidewalk.
Façade transparency For storefronts, at least 60 percent of ground floor between 30 inches and 10 feet
above the sidewalk is required.
Other buildings designed with non-residential uses on the ground floor within 10 feet
of sidewalk, at least 30 percent of the ground floor between 4-8 feet above the
sidewalk.
Other buildings, at least 10 percent of the entire façade (all vertical surfaces generally
facing the street).
Window area that is glazed over or covered in any manner that obscures visibility into
the storefront space shall not count as transparent window are(1)
Weather protection At least 3 feet deep over primary business and residential entries.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 54 of 114
Table 20.127.210(2)
Other block frontage standards.
Element Standards
Parking location
Also see Chapter 20.124
POMC for related parking
requirements
There are no parking lot location restrictions.
A 10 feet buffer of landscaping between the street and off street parking areas meeting
the performance standards of Chapter 20.128 POMC is required.
Landscaping
Also see Chapter 20.128
POMC for related
landscaping standards
The area between the street and building must be landscaped and/or include private
porch or patio 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.
Sidewalk width Where storefront buildings are proposed, sidewalks must meet Storefront block
frontage standards above. Otherwise, 6-foot wide minimum sidewalks are required.
(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. Provide design treatments that create an effective transition between the
public and private realm. This could include a stoop design to other similar treatments that
utilize a low fence, retaining wall, and/or hedge alone the sidewalk.
(b) Façade transparency. The design treatment of a façade and/or landscape element provides visual
interest to the pedestrian and mitigates impacts of any blank wall area.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 55 of 114
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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 56 of 114
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 ten-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 POMC 20.128, 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 (2)(b), 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 options (1)
through (3) above.
See Figure 20.127.230 below for examples of the above treatments.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 57 of 114
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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 58 of 114
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.
Items (2)-(5) below 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 non-designated 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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
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Figure 20.127.240
Clarifying block frontage standards on street corners.
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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
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Page 60 of 114
(iv) Distinctive façade 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 feature cropped building corners with decorative elements. Building 3
uses a decorative canopy. Building 4 uses a change in building materials and façade 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.
2 1
3
5 4
6
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 61 of 114
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, 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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
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(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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 63 of 114
(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 non-motorized 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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 64 of 114
Article III - SITE PLANNING STANDARDS
20.127.300 - Purpose.
(1) To preserve and protect the public health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Port Orchard.
(2) To promote the thoughtful layout of buildings, parking areas, circulation, service areas, landscaping,
and amenity elements that enhances Port Orchard’s visual character, promotes compatibility
between developments and uses, and enhances the function of developments.
Also see the individual “purpose” statements for each section in this Article.
20.127.310 - Applicability and compliance.
(1) See POMC 20.127.020(1) for clarification on the types of development to which these standards
apply.
(2) See POMC 20.127.020(2) for the relationship between the provisions in this Article and other
documents and codes.
(3) See POMC 20.127.020(3) for the application of building additions and remodels and site
improvements.
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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
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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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
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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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
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20.127.330 - Non-motorized circulation & 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
residential entries on the same development site must be provided. Routes that minimize
walking distances 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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
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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 clearly marked 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 townhouses or other residential units fronting the street, the sidewalk may be used to meet
this standard.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
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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 50 parking spaces or more must
provide specially marked or paved walkways through parking areas. At least one walkway must
be provided every four rows of parking or at a maximum spacing of 200 feet. The walkways
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Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
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must provide a safe connection to the building entrance and meet the walkway design standards
set forth in subsection (4) of this section. 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 the 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 towards this
requirement.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
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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.
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Ordinance No. 008-18
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(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, an extra two feet of walkway
width must be provided to mitigate for parked vehicles overhanging the walk way.
(c) Pedestrian walks must be separated from structures at least three feet for landscaping except
where the adjacent building façade meets the Storefront block frontage standards per POMC
20.127.120(2).
Departures will be considered where other landscaping and/or façade 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 façade 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).
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Ordinance No. 008-18
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(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 (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.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
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20.127.340 - Vehicular circulation & parking.
The standards herein supplement the provisions of public works standards and Chapter 20.124 POMC.
Where there is a conflict, the provisions herein apply, except that the public works director may
override this this requirement and apply the public works standard for a driveway if the public works
director finds that a failure to apply the public works standards will result in a threat to public safety.
(1) Purpose.
(a) To create a safe, convenient, and efficient network for vehicle circulation and parking.
(b) To enhance the visual character of interior access roads.
(c) To minimize conflicts with pedestrian circulation and activity.
(2) Driveway provisions.
(a) Driveways must comply with the public works standards. Where there is a conflict between the
driveway provisions in this chapter and those in the public works standards, the driveway provisions in
this chapter apply, except that the public works director may override this this requirement and apply
the public works standard for a driveway if the public works director finds that a failure to apply the
public works standards will result in a threat to public safety.
(b) Drive aisles must meet the standards set forth in POMC 20.124.270, Off-street parking design
standards.
(c) Minimize parking lot entrances, drive aisles, and other vehicle access routes onto private
property from a public right-of-way through the following means:
(i) Driveway lanes crossing a public sidewalk must be no wider than the minimum required
per entry or exit lane. The city may impose additional restrictions to parking lot and vehicle
access points to reduce impacts to public safety, pedestrian movement, on-street vehicle
circulation, and visual qualities.
(ii) Minimize the number of driveway entrances and comply with the public works standards
for driveway entrances.
(iii) The reviewing authority may require joint drive aisles serving adjacent developments when
joint access is physically and legally available.
(iv) Minimize conflicts between entries and vehicle parking and maneuvering areas.
(v) At street corner sites, drive aisles must be located on the lowest classified roadway and as
close as practical to the property line most distant from the intersection, unless the
reviewing authority finds there is a compelling reason to the contrary.
(d) Standards for driveways for front-loaded townhouses and other similar attached housing types.
(i) Individual driveways are limited to a single lane 12-feet wide.
(ii) Driveways shared between two attached units are limited to 20 feet in width.
(iii) Front loaded townhouses or other similar attached housing types must be at least 30 feet
wide to qualify for individual or shared driveways.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
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Figure 20.127.340(2)(d)
Driveway standards for front-loaded attached housing types.
The left image shows an acceptable front loaded
townhouse example in plan view, where individual
units are at least 30 feet wide. The below example
does not meet that requirement.
(e) Port Orchard Boulevard access. Access from Port Orchard Boulevard except for areas with a
designated block frontage as shown in the community design framework maps in POMC
20.127.130 shall be prohibited.
(3) Inter-site connectivity. The provision of through vehicle access connections between
commercially or non-residentially zoned properties is required except where the reviewing
authority determines it is infeasible or undesirable (e.g., where it is determined that such a vehicle
connection would impact safe pedestrian movement). See Article II of this chapter for specific block
frontage standards. Vehicle access may be in the form of a dedicated or private alley, connected or
shared parking lots, shared drive aisles, or similar features.
(4) Internal roadway design.
(a) To increase the function and appearance of internal roadways on large sites (greater than two
acres), street trees and sidewalks must be provided on all internal access roadways, excepting
access roads designed solely for the purpose of service (e.g. waste pick-up) and loading.
(b) In some instances where traffic speed and volume are low, the reviewing authority may approve
a street where vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian movement are mixed such as in a “woonerf” or
“shared street”. Woonerf streets must feature traffic calming and safety measures as well as
landscape and amenity features as determined by the reviewing authority.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
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Figure 20.127.340(4)
Good internal roadway examples.
The examples above include angled parking and planter strips with street trees. Pedestrian-scaled lighting also
contributes to the character in the upper right image.
The above left image illustrates a thoroughfare lane with a row of street trees. A sidewalk is included on one side of
the street to provide a strategic connection between businesses. The right image illustrates the curbless “woonerf”
design where travel speeds are low and lanes are shared between pedestrians and vehicles.
(c) Drive-through facilities. Where allowed, drive through facilities (e.g., drive-up windows) must
comply with the following.
(i) Drive-through lanes, including waiting and holding lanes, must be buffered from the street
and internal walkways by one or both of the following:
(A) A planting strip at least five feet wide with continuous plantings of evergreen shrubs and/or
trees that will, at maturity, provide a continuous evergreen screen at least four feet tall.
(B) A wall at least three feet high constructed of brick, stone or siding materials that matches
the principal walls of the building to which the sign applies
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Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
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Departure: Alternative screening schemes may be approved provided they include both the
wall and a substantial vegetative screen. The landscaping must comply with Chapter 20.128
POMC.
(ii) Drive-through lanes must not restrict pedestrian access between a public sidewalk and on-
site buildings. Walkways must not be located within required stacking space as set forth in
the public works standards.
(iii) This section contains standards for drive-through lanes and facilities. Signs associated with
drive-through lane are regulated under POMC 20.132.050 (7).
20.127.350 - On-site open space.
(1) Purpose.
(a) To create useable space that is suitable for leisure or recreational activities for residents.
(b) To create open space that contributes to the residential setting.
(c) To provide plazas that attract shoppers to commercial areas.
(d) To provide plazas and other pedestrian oriented spaces in commercial areas that enhance the
employees’ and public’s opportunity for active and passive activities, such as dining, resting,
people watching, and recreational activities.
(e) To enhance the development character and attractiveness of commercial development.
(2) Usable residential open space.
(a) All multi-household development, including multi-household portions of mixed-use
development, must provide minimum usable open space equal to 100 square feet per dwelling
unit for studio and one-bedroom dwellings and 150 square feet per dwelling unit for dwellings
with two or more bedrooms.
Developments adjacent to or across the street from a public park can qualify for a 50 percent
reduction in the required open space via a departure, where it is determined that both the park
and access to the park help to meet the usable open space purpose.
The required open space may be provided in a combination of ways:
(i) Shared open space. 100 percent of the required open space may be in the form of shared
open space available to all residents and meeting the requirements of subsection (2)(b) of
this section. Shared open space may be in the form of courtyards, front porches, patios,
play areas gardens or similar spaces.
(ii) Ground level private outdoor space. 100 percent of the required open space may be
provided by ground level outdoor space that is adjacent and directly accessible to the
subject unit. Such open spaces must be enclosed by a fence and/or hedge at least 32 inches
in height to qualify. Ground level private open space in excess of minimum requirements
must not be used in the calculations for determining the minimum useable open space
requirements for other units in the development.
(iii) Balconies. Up to 50 percent of the required open space may be provided by private
balconies provided they are at least 36 square feet with no dimension less than six feet.
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Ordinance No. 008-18
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Individual balconies in excess of minimum requirements must not be used in the
calculations for determining the minimum useable open space requirements for other units
in the development.
(iv) Common indoor recreation areas. Up to 50 percent of the required open space may be
provided by common indoor recreation areas meeting the requirements of subsection
(2)(c) of this section.
(v) Shared roof decks. For mixed-use buildings, up to 100 percent of the required open space
may be provided by shared roof decks located on the top of buildings which are available to
all residents and meet the requirements of subsection (2)(d) of this section. Roof decks in
mixed-use buildings shall not be accessible to commercial tenants, employees, or
customers.
(b) Shared open space. Shared open space can include landscaped courtyards or decks, entrance
plazas, gardens with walkways, children’s play areas, pools, and water features provided they are
accessible to all residents of the development. Accessible areas used for storm water retention
or other multipurpose recreational and/or green spaces that meet the design criteria herein may
qualify as shared open space.
Special requirements for common usable open spaces include the following:
(i) Shared open space must be located in centralized areas that are visible from units within
the development.
(ii) Required setback areas must not count as shared open space unless the design of the space
meets the standards herein.
(iii) Shared open space must feature no dimension less than 15 feet in order to provide
functional leisure or recreational activity (unless otherwise noted herein).
(iv) Shared open space must feature paths or walkable lawns, landscaping, seating, lighting, and
play structures, sports courts, or other pedestrian amenities to make the area more
functional and enjoyable for a range of users.
(v) Shared open space must be separated from ground level windows, streets, service areas
and parking lots with landscaping, fencing, and/or other acceptable treatments that enhance
safety and privacy for both the shared open space and dwelling units.
(vi) When possible, the space should be oriented to receive sunlight, face east, west or
preferably south.
(vii) Stairways and service elements located within or on the edge of shared open space must
not be included in the open space calculations.
(viii) Shared porches may qualify as shared open space provided they are at least 8 feet in depth
and 96 square feet in total area.
(ix) The space must be accessible to all residents of the development.
(x) Natural, artificial, and stormwater ponds may be included in the shared open space. A
maximum of 50 percent of the pond surface area, as measured when the pond is at its
maximum designed depth, may be counted towards the minimum requirements of
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subsection (2)(a) of this section. Ponds must be integrated with trails and other features
listed above to qualify as shared open space.
Figure 20.127.350(2)(b)(i)
Shared open space examples.
The upper examples include a combination of open lawn area for informal recreation plus walkways and decorative
landscape areas to enhance the setting for residents.
The left image above includes a covered gathering space with outdoor grills adjacent to a landscaped commons with a
central walkway. The right image includes a pond/wetland type area with boardwalk and seating areas.
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Figure 20.127.350(2)(b)(ii)
Acceptable and unacceptable examples of ponds as open space.
The above images show an acceptable example of using a pond as shared open space. Lawns, gentle slopes, and a
perimeter walking path are integrated into this amenity.
The above image shows a stormwater pond that would not qualify as shared open space. The pond is fenced,
inaccessible to users of the development, and it is lined by steep rocky banks.
(c) Indoor recreational areas. Such spaces must meet the following conditions:
(i) The space must be located in a visible area, such as near an entrance, lobby, or high traffic
corridors.
(ii) Space must be designed specifically to serve interior recreational functions and not merely
be leftover unrentable space used to meet the open space requirement. Such space must
include amenities and design elements that will encourage use by residents.
(d) Shared rooftop decks. Such spaces must meet the following requirements:
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(i) Space must feature hard surfacing and provide amenities such as seating areas, landscaping,
and/or other features that encourage use.
(ii) Space must integrate landscaping elements that enhance the character of the space and
encourage its use.
(iii) Space must incorporate features that provide for the safety of residents, such as
enclosures, railings, and appropriate lighting levels.
Figure 20.127.350(2)(d)
Rooftop deck examples.
(3) Usable commercial open space. New developments with non-residential uses (except for
development within the Employment – Industrial/Office zone) on sites with a total site area greater
than 0.5 acre must provide open space equal to at least two percent of the gross square footage of
the development. The open space may be in the form of pedestrian-oriented space per subsection
(4) of this section, garden, play area or other open space feature that serves both as a visual amenity
and a place for human activity. Portions of sidewalks that are wider than 12 feet and which meet
the standards of pedestrian-oriented space may be counted toward this requirement. For this
specific standard, “Site area” includes all land needed for the non-residential portion of the project
including parking, service areas, access and required landscaping. Non-residential open space
features must be approved by the reviewing authority.
Departure: Open space area may be reduced to one percent of the development envelope if the
reviewing authority finds the project includes exceptional design features and elements that meet
the purpose of the standards. This includes open spaces that feature a combination of design (site
materials, amenities, and configuration) and location/context that clearly exceed typical plaza designs
found in the region.
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Ordinance No. 008-18
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Figure 20.127.350(3)
Example site development integrating usable commercial open space.
(4) Pedestrian-oriented space design criteria. This subsection describes the requirements and
desired characteristics of pedestrian-oriented space (which may be used to meet the requirements
of subsection (3) of this section).
(a) Required pedestrian-oriented space features.
(i) Visual and pedestrian access into the site from a street, private access road, or publicly-
accessible parking area.
(ii) Paved walking surfaces of either concrete or approved unit paving.
(iii) The spaces must be located in or adjacent to areas with significant pedestrian traffic to
provide interest and security, such as adjacent to or visible from a building entry.
(iv) At least two linear feet of seating area (a bench or ledge at least 16 inches deep and
appropriate seating height) or one individual seat per 60 square feet of plaza area or open
space.
(v) Landscaping components that add visual interest and are not a visual barrier. This could
include planting beds, raised planters, and/or potted plants.
(b) Desirable pedestrian-oriented space features.
(i) Pedestrian amenities, such as site furniture, lighting, artwork, drinking fountains, shade
structures or other similar features.
(ii) Adjacent buildings with transparent windows and doors covering at least 50 percent of the
façade between 30 inches and 10 feet above the ground level.
(iii) Pedestrian weather protection, alcoves, seating, or other features along building edges to
allow for outdoor gathering.
(iv) Concrete or unit paving.
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(c) Features prohibited within a pedestrian-oriented space.
(i) Asphalt pavement.
(ii) Adjacent service areas (e.g., trash areas) that are not separated with landscaping, as
required in POMC 20.127.360, Location and design of service areas and mechanical
equipment.
(iii) Adjacent chain-link fences.
(iv) Adjacent "blank walls" without "blank wall treatment" (see POMC 20.127.460(3)).
(v) Outdoor storage.
Figure 20.127.350(4)(i)
Example of standards applied to a small pedestrian-oriented space.
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Ordinance No. 008-18
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Figure 20.127.350(4)(ii)
Desirable examples of pedestrian-oriented space.
The left example above is a colorful plaza with outdoor seating, landscaping elements and direct access to adjacent retail
uses. The upper right image is a commons area with adjacent covered areas.
A covered outdoor gathering space (left) may be used to meet pedestrian-oriented space requirements. In the right image,
the widened sidewalk area may be counted as pedestrian-oriented space.
(5) Useable mixed-use open space. Developments with a mix of residential and non-residential uses
may double-count useable open space for both residential units and commercial square footage,
provided the double-counted open space meets the requirements of both subsections (2) and (3) of
this section.
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20.127.360 - Location and design of service areas and mechanical equipment.
(1) Purpose.
(a) To minimize adverse visual, odor, and noise impacts of mechanical equipment, utility cabinets
and service areas at ground and roof levels.
(b) To provide adequate, durable, well-maintained, and accessible service and equipment areas.
(c) To protect residential uses and adjacent properties from impacts due to location and utilization
of service areas.
(2) Location of ground related service areas and mechanical equipment.
(a) Service areas (loading docks, trash dumpsters, compactors, recycling areas, electrical panels, and
mechanical equipment areas) must be located for convenient service access while avoiding
negative visual, auditory, olfactory, or physical impacts on the streetscape environment and
adjacent residentially zoned properties. Service areas must be sited for alley access if available.
The director and/or hearing examiner may require evidence that such elements will not
significantly impact neighboring properties or public areas. (For example, noise damping
specifications may be required for fans located near residential zones.)
(b) Exterior loading areas. Exterior loading areas for commercial uses must not be located within 20
feet of a single family residentially zoned property
Departure opportunity: Exterior commercial loading areas are exempt from this standard if the
reviewing authority finds such a restriction does not allow feasible development and alternative
design measures can successfully mitigate potential negative impacts. For example, areas and
drives may be required to be separated from the residential lot by a masonry wall at least eight
feet high.
(c) Service areas must not be visible from the sidewalk and adjacent properties. Where the
reviewing authority finds that the only option for locating a service area is an area visible from a
public right-of-way, resident/customer parking area, internal walkway or pedestrian area, or
from an adjacent property, the area must be screened with structural and landscaping screening
measures provided in subsection (3) of this section and Chapter 20.128, Landscaping.
Departure opportunity: Service elements accessible from an alley are exempt from screening
requirements.
(d) Design for safety. Other provisions of this section notwithstanding, service areas used by
residents must be located to avoid entrapment areas and other conditions where personal
security is potentially a problem. Pedestrian-scaled lighting or other measures may be required
to enhance security.
(e) Locate and shield noise-producing mechanical equipment, such as fans, heat pumps, etc. to
minimize sounds and reduce impacts to adjacent residentially zoned properties.
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Figure 20.127.360(2)
Service element location.
Locate service elements to reduce impacts on the residential and pedestrian
environment, and provide appropriate enclosure
(3) Screening of ground related service areas and mechanical equipment.
(a) Where screening of ground level service areas is called for [see subsection (2) of this section],
adhere to the following:
(i) A structural enclosure must be constructed of masonry, heavy-gauge metal, or decay-
resistant material that is also used with the architecture of the main building. The reviewing
authority may allow materials other than those used for the main building if the finishes are
similar in color and texture or if the proposed enclosure materials are more durable than
those for the main structure. The walls must be sufficient to provide full screening from the
affected roadway, pedestrian areas or adjacent use. The enclosure may use overlapping
walls to screen dumpsters and other materials (see Figure 20.127.360(3) below).
(ii) Gates must be made of heavy-gauge, site-obscuring material. Chain link or chain link with
slats is not an acceptable material for enclosures or gates.
(iii) Where the inside of service enclosures are visible from surrounding streets, walkways, and
buildings, an opaque or semi-opaque horizontal cover or screen must be used to mitigate
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unsightly views. The horizontal screen/cover should be integrated into the enclosure design
and compatible with adjacent development.
(iv) Collection points must be located and configured so that the enclosure gate swing does not
obstruct pedestrian or vehicle traffic, or does not require that a hauling truck project into
any public right-of-way. Ensure that screening elements allow for efficient service delivery
and removal operations.
(v) The service area must be paved.
(b) The sides and rear of service enclosures must be screened with landscaping at least five feet
wide in locations visible from the street, parking lots, and walkways to soften views of the
screening element and add visual interest.
Departures from the provisions of subsections (3)(a) and (3)(b) above will be considered provided
the enclosure and landscaping treatment meet the purpose of the standards and add visual interest
to site users.
Figure 20.127.360(3)
Acceptable screening enclosures.
All three examples use durable and attractive
enclosures with trees and shrubs to soften
views of the enclosures from the side. The
lower left example uses a trellis structure on
top – a desirable example particularly where
the top of the enclosures are visible from
surrounding buildings, streets, and walkways
(due to topography or building heights).
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(4) Utility meters, electrical conduit, and other service utility apparatus.
(a) These elements must be located and/or designed to minimize their visibility to the public.
Project designers are strongly encouraged to coordinate with applicable service providers early
in the design process to determine the best approach in meeting these standards. If such
elements are mounted in a location visible from the street, pedestrian walkway, shared open
space, or shared auto courtyards, they must be screened with vegetation and/or integrated into
the building’s architecture.
Figure 20.127.360(4)
Utility meter location and screening - good and bad examples.
Place utility meters in less visible locations. The upper and lower left examples are successfully tucked away in a less
visible location and/or screened by vegetation. The right images are poorly executed and would not be permitted in
such visible locations. Such meters must be coordinated and better integrated with the architecture of the building.
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(5) Location and screening of roof mounted mechanical equipment.
(a) All rooftop mechanical equipment, including air conditioners, heaters, vents, and similar
equipment must be fully screened from public view both at grade and from higher buildings with
the exception of solar panels and roof-mounted wind turbines. Screening must be located so as
not to interfere with operation of the equipment.
(b) For rooftop equipment, all screening devices must be well integrated into the architectural
design through such elements as parapet walls, false roofs, roof wells, clerestories, or equipment
rooms. Screening walls or unit-mounted screening is allowed but less desirable. Wood must not
be used for screens or enclosures. Louvered designs are acceptable if consistent with building
design style. Perforated metal is not permitted
(c) The screening materials must be of material requiring minimal maintenance, and must be as high
as the equipment being screened.
(d) Locate and shield noise-producing mechanical equipment, such as fans, heat pumps, etc. to
minimize sounds and reduce impacts to adjacent residentially zoned properties.
Figure 20.127.360(5)
Examples of how to screen roof-mounted mechanical equipment.
The examples above use walls to screen rooftop mechanical equipment from view from the street.
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Article IV - BUILDING DESIGN STANDARDS
20.127.400 - Purpose.
See the individual “purpose” statements for each section in this Article.
20.127.410 - Applicability and compliance.
(1) See POMC 20.127.020(1) for clarification on the types of development to which these standards
apply.
(2) See POMC 20.127.020(2) for the relationship between the provisions in this Article and other
documents and codes.
(3) See POMC 20.127.020(3) for the application of building additions and remodels and site
improvements.
20.127.420 - Building character.
(1) Purpose.
(a) To promote buildings with an architectural character that reflects the region’s aesthetic and is
based on human scaled design details, durable high quality materials, sustainable design
measures, and respond uniquely to the site’s context.
(b) To emphasize that high quality design is most critical to Port Orchard’s high visibility sites and
corridors.
(c) To avoid generic, corporate architectural design that degrades the character and identity of Port
Orchard.
(2) Corporate architecture.
(a) Architecture that is defined predominately by corporate identity features and is difficult to adapt
to other uses is prohibited. For example, some franchise convenience uses have very specific
architectural features (such as a distinctive roofline design that functions as a sign) that reinforce
their identity. As tenants change in these types of buildings, these corporate identity features
can negatively impact the character of the area and identity of new tenants. These features can
also be very expensive to reconfigure and adapt to new uses.
(b) Exemptions. This prohibition does not apply the Bravo Terrace and Sedgwick Road areas
identified in Figure 20.127.420.
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Figure 20.127.420
Areas exempt from the prohibition of corporate architecture.
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20.127.430 - Building massing & articulation.
(1) Purpose.
(a) To employ façade articulation techniques that reduce the perceived scale of large buildings and
add visual interest from all observable scales.
(b) To create clear and welcoming building entries.
(2) Façade articulation - non-residential. Storefronts and other buildings with non-residential uses
on the ground level façade must include articulation features every 40 feet (maximum) to create a
pattern of small storefronts. At least three of the following features must be employed at intervals
no greater than 40 feet:
(a) Window patterns and/or entries.
(b) Use of weather protection features.
(c) Use of vertical piers/columns.
(d) Change in roofline per subsection (6) of this section.
(e) Change in building material or siding style.
(f) Other design techniques that effectively reinforce a pattern of small storefronts compatible with
the building’s surrounding context.
Other features that could be used to meet the standards on block frontages that are not designated
as Storefront
(g) Vertical elements such as a trellis with plants, green wall, art element.
(h) Providing vertical building modulation of at least 12 inches in depth if tied to a change in roofline
per subsection (6) of this section or a change in building material, siding style, or color.
Departure: Other articulation features may be used provided they meet the purpose of the
standards and the design criteria set forth in subsection (4) of this section.
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Figure 20.127.430(2)
Façade articulation examples.
The left image uses window patterns, weather protection elements, and roofline modulation. The photo example to the
right also includes window patterns and weather protection along with a change in masonry texture and color to articulate
the façade. The lower example illustrates how a multitenant retail building can successfully be articulated (windows, weather
protection, vertical building modulation, and roofline changes)
(3) Façade articulation - residential. Residential buildings must include articulation features at
intervals that relate to the location/size of individual units within the building (or no more than every
30 feet) to break up the massing of the building and add visual interest and compatibility to the
surrounding context. At least three of the following features must be employed at intervals no
greater than the unit interval or 30 feet (whichever is less):
(a) Use of windows and/or entries.
(b) Change in roofline per subsection (6) of this section.
(c) Change in building material, siding style, and/or window pattern.
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(d) Providing vertical building modulation of at least 12 inches in depth if tied to a change in roofline
modulation per subsection (6) of this section or a change in building material, siding style, or
color. Balconies may be used to qualify for this option if they are recessed or projected from
the façade by at least 18 inches. Juliet balconies or other balconies that appear to be tacked on
to the façade will not qualify for this option unless they employ high quality materials and
effectively meet the purpose of the standards.
(e) Vertical elements such as a trellis with plants, green wall, art element.
(f) Other design techniques that effectively break up the massing at no more than 30-foot intervals.
Departures: Other articulation features will be considered provided they meet the purpose of the
standards and the design criteria set forth in subsection (4) of this section.
Figure 20.127.430(3)
Residential façade articulation examples.
Below examples use a combination of vertical building modulation, window patterns, material changes, and roofline
modulation.
(4) Departure criteria associated with articulation standards. Proposals must meet the purpose
of the standards. The following criteria will be considered in determining whether the proposed
articulation treatment meets the “purpose”.
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(a) Consider the type and width of the proposed articulation treatment and how effective it is in
meeting the purpose given the building’s current and desired context (per Port Orchard’s
Comprehensive Plan or applicable adopted subarea plan).
(b) Consider the applicable block frontage designation. Undesignated block frontages warrant more
flexibility than block frontages designated as Varied or Landscaped.
(c) Consider the size and width of the building. Smaller buildings warrant greater flexibility than
larger buildings.
(d) Consider the quality of façade materials in concert with doors, windows, and other façade
features and their ability to add visual interest to the street from a pedestrian scale and more
distant observable scales.
Figure 20.127.430(4)
Façade articulation departure examples.
This building would be a good departure example. Its two clear articulation features are the window patterns and the
entry/building modulation feature (3 minimum are required). However, the overall effectiveness of these articulation
features combined with the high quality of materials and detailing and the relatively small width of the building help it meet
the purpose of the standards.
(5) Maximum façade width. For most buildings, small scale articulation techniques (see subsections
(2) and (3) above) are sufficient to reduce the perceived scale of buildings, add visual interest, and
contribute to the pedestrian environment. Larger buildings need more substantial
articulated/modulated features to break up the massing and add visual interest.
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Building façades wider than 100 feet must include at least one of the following features to break up
the massing of the building and add visual interest. Building walls facing alleys, rear or side yards are
not subject to the standards herein, except for zone edge properties, when adjacent to a lower
intensity zoning district.
(a) Provide vertical building modulation at least 20 feet deep and 30 feet wide. For multi-story
buildings, the modulation must extend through more than one-half of the building floors.
(b) Use of a contrasting vertical modulated design component featuring all of the following:
(i) Component extends through all floors above the first floor fronting on the street.
Exception: upper floors that are set back more than ten feet horizontally from the façade
are exempt.
(ii) Utilizes a change in building materials that effectively contrasts with the rest of the façade.
(iii) Component is modulated vertically from the rest of the façade by an average of six inches.
(iv) Component is designed to provide roofline modulation per subsection (6) of this section.
(c) Façade employs building walls with contrasting articulation that make it appear like two distinct
buildings. To qualify for this option, these contrasting façades must employ all of the following:
(i) Different building materials and/or configuration of building materials.
(ii) Contrasting window design (sizes or configurations).
(d) Departures will be considered provided the design meets the purpose of the standards.
Supplemental consideration for approving alternative designs:
(i) Width of the façade. The larger the façade, the more substantial articulation/ modulation
features need to be.
(ii) Block frontage designation. Storefront designated block frontages warrant the most
scrutiny while undesignated streets warrant more flexibility.
(iii) The type of articulation treatment and how effective it is in meeting the purpose given the
building’s context.
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Ordinance No. 008-18
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Figure 20.127.430(5)(i)
Illustrating maximum façade width standards.
Less than 100 feet wide: Meets standard More than 100 feet wide: Does not meet standard
Building incorporates a
20-foot x 30-foot courtyard
along the façade to
effectively break it up into
smaller components:
Meets standard.
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Figure 20.127.430(5)(ii)
Façade width good and bad examples.
Both buildings use modulated entry features to help break up the perceived massing and add visual interest.
The left building (about 110 feet wide) uses an articulated partial third floor along with smaller articulation treatments
on the main floors to effectively break up the perceived scale and add visual interest (this would be a good departure
example). The building to the right would not be an acceptable example. While the articulated features on the lower
floors help, the monotony of the very long upper floor and roofline would not be acceptable.
(6) Roofline modulation. In order to qualify as a façade articulation feature in subsections (2), (3),
and (5) of this section, rooflines must employ one or more of the following:
(a) For flat roofs or façades with horizontal eave, fascia, or parapet, the minimum vertical dimension
of roofline modulation is the greater of two feet or 0.1 multiplied by the wall height (finish grade
to top of the wall) when combined with vertical building modulation techniques described in
subsections above. Otherwise, the minimum vertical dimension of roofline modulation is the
greater of four feet or 0.2 multiplied by the wall height.
(b) A pitched roofline or gabled roofline segment of at least 20 feet in width. Buildings with pitched
roofs must include a minimum slope of 5:12 and feature modulated roofline components at the
interval required per the applicable standard above.
(c) A combination of the above.
Departures: Other designs will be considered provided the roofline modulation design effectively
reduces the perceived scale of the building and adds visual interest.
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Figure 20.127.430(6)
Acceptable examples of roofline modulation.
Roofline modulation examples for flat roofs.
The bottom left building illustrates a pitched roof example and the bottom right building includes a combination of flat and
gabled rooflines.
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Ordinance No. 008-18
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20.127.440 - Building details.
(1) Purpose:
(a) To encourage the incorporation of design details and small-scale elements into building façades
that are attractive at a pedestrian scale.
(b) To integrate window design that adds depth, richness, and visual interest to the façade.
(2) Façade details - non-residential and mixed-use buildings. All commercial and mixed-use
buildings must be enhanced with appropriate details. All new buildings and additions associated with
Level II and III Improvements (see POMC 20.127.020) must employ at least one detail element from
each of the three categories below for each façade articulation interval (see POMC 20.127.430).
For example, a building with 120 feet of street frontage with a façade articulated at 40-foot intervals
will need to meet the standards for each of the three façade segments below.
(a) At least one window and/or entry treatment, such as the following, must be employed for each
articulation interval:
(i) Display windows divided into a grid of multiple panes.
(ii) Transom windows.
(iii) Roll-up windows/doors.
(iv) Other distinctive window treatment that meets the purpose of the standards.
(v) Recessed entry.
(vi) Decorative door.
(vii) Other decorative or specially designed entry treatment that meets the purpose of the
standards.
Figure 20.127.440(2)(a)
Examples of decorative or specially designed windows and entries.
C
B A
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Figure 20.127.440(2)(a)
Examples of decorative or specially designed windows and entries.
Examples of decorative or specially designed windows and entries. A = openable storefront window. B = transom
windows. C = openable window with decorative details. D = decorative window shades. E = Decorative door.
F = recessed entry.
D E E
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(b) At least one building element or façade detail, such as the following, must be employed for each
articulation interval:
(i) Custom-designed weather protection element such as a steel canopy, cloth awning, or
retractable awning.
(ii) Decorative building-mounted light fixtures.
(iii) Bay windows, trellises, towers, and similar elements.
(iv) Decorative, custom hanging sign(s) (option only available for building remodels).
(v) Other details or elements that meet the purpose of these standards.
Figure 20.127.440(2)(b)
Examples of attached elements that enhance the visual intrigue of the building.
Examples of elements attached to façade that enhance the visual intrigue of the building. A = retractable
awning. B = custom hanging bike rack and repair station integrated as a storefront design element. C = decorative
façade/sign lighting D and E = custom decorative canopy. F decorative tower.
C B A
D F E
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(c) At least one building material and other façade element, such as the following, must be
employed for each articulation interval:
(i) Use of decorative building materials/use of building materials. Examples include decorative
use of brick, tile, or stonework.
(ii) Artwork on building, such as a mural or bas-relief sculpture.
(iii) Decorative kick-plate, pilaster, base panel, or other similar feature.
(iv) Hand-crafted material, such as special wrought iron or carved wood.
(v) Other details that meet the purpose of the standards.
“Custom,” “decorative,” or “hand-crafted” elements referenced above must be distinctive or
“one-of-a-kind” elements or unusual designs that require a high level of craftsmanship.
Departures will be considered provided the façade (at the overall scale and at the individual
articulation scale) meets the purpose of the standards above.
Figure 20.127.440(2)(c)
Examples of decorative surface materials.
Examples of decorative surface materials. A = decorative brick/design. B = decorative tile-work and column
pattern. C = decorative medallion.
A
B
C
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D = decorative mosaic tile work. E = decorative bulkhead. F = Decorative materials and design.
(3) Window design standards.
All windows (except storefront display windows) must employ designs that add depth and richness
to the façade. At least one of the following features must be included to meet this requirement:
(a) Recess windows at least two inches from the façade.
(b) Incorporate window trim (at least three inches wide) around windows
(c) Incorporate other design treatments that add depth, richness, and visual interest to the façade.
Departures from the window standards above will be considered provided the design meets the
purpose of the standards.
F
E
D
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Figure 20.127.440(3)
Acceptable and unacceptable window design examples.
Recessed and/or trimmed windows above.
The window in the left
image lacks any other detail
that adds visual interest.
However, the right
example, with its
prominent black sash and
muntins and frieze/apron
details above and below
the windows would be
acceptable departure
design.
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(4) Cornice/roofline design for flat roofs. Non-residential and mixed-use buildings employing a flat
roof must employ a distinctive roofline that effectively provides an identifiable “top” to the building,
including one of the following (Figure 20.127.440(4) below illustrates acceptable and unacceptable
examples):
(a) A traditional cornice line or a contemporary interpretation of a traditional cornice line. Such
rooflines must be proportional to the size and scale of the building.
(b) Understated cornice lines are permitted depending on the materials and design of the base and
middle elements in reinforcing the base/middle/top configuration.
Rooftop solar units are permitted, provided the placement and design of units visible from the
surrounding streetscape are carefully integrated into the overall design concept of the building.
Departure: Alternative roofline designs may be acceptable provided the building design, collectively,
meets the purpose of the standards. For example, adding additional articulation treatments and/or
detailing may help the building meet the departure criteria.
Figure 20.127.440.D
Examples of buildings employing confident and distinctive rooflines.
Building 1 uses a dramatic overhanging cornice at the corner. The left portion of Building 1 uses a very simple cornice
line - to go with the upper level setback. Building 2 uses a traditional cornice line.
2 1
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Figure 20.127.440.D
Examples of buildings employing confident and distinctive rooflines.
Building 3 uses capped projecting columns along with an understated cornice line. Building 4 uses a very simple
roofline - which is acceptable in this case due to the prominence of the wooden canopy.
(5) Articulated building entries. The primary building entrance for an office building, hotel,
apartment building, public or community-based facility or other multi-story commercial building
must be designed as a clearly defined and demarcated standout architectural feature of the building.
Such entrances must be easily distinguishable from regular storefront entrances on the building.
Such entries must be scaled proportional to the building. See Figure 20.127.440(5) below for good
examples.
Figure 20.127.440(5)
Acceptable building entry examples.
4
3
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20.127.450 - Building materials.
(1) Purpose.
(a) To encourage the use of durable, high quality, and urban building materials that minimize
maintenance cost and provide visual interest from all observable vantage points.
(b) To promote the use of a distinctive mix of materials that helps to articulate façades and lends a
sense of depth and richness to the buildings.
(c) To place the highest priority on the first floor in the quality and detailing of materials at the
pedestrian scale.
(2) Quality building materials. Applicants must use high quality durable materials. This is most
important for the base of buildings, particularly for commercial and mixed-use buildings where the
façade is sited close to sidewalks. At a minimum, stone, brick or tile masonry, or architectural
concrete (first two feet only) must be used (excluding window and door areas) for the first floor of
cladding on non-residential or mixed-use buildings and the first two feet of residential buildings.
(3) Special conditions and limitations for concrete block (also known as concrete masonry unit
or CMU). Concrete block may be used as a cladding material if it is incorporated with other
permitted materials and/or incorporates a combination of textures and/or colors to add visual
interest. For example, combining split or rock-façade units with smooth blocks can create
distinctive patterns. The figure below illustrates acceptable concrete block use/designs.
Figure 20.127.450(3)
Acceptable concrete block use/design.
CMU is the primary cladding for the corner element
above, but secondary to brick on the main façade s.
The corner element uses a combination of decorative
split faced CMU closer to the sidewalk and smooth-
faced CMU that is colored to look more like
traditional white terra cotta tiles.
The above façade illustrates an acceptable alternative
example, as CMU is used as the primary cladding material.
Note the use of split-façade CMU’s above each of the
awnings and coupled with the use of smooth-façade CMU’s
on the vertical columns (which employ black accent tiles for
added interest).
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(4) Special conditions and limitations for metal siding. Metal siding may be used as a secondary
cladding material if it is incorporated with other permitted materials and complies with the following
standards:
(a) It must feature visible corner molding and trim and must not extend lower than two feet above
grade. Masonry, concrete, or other durable material must be incorporated between the metal
siding and the ground plane.
(b) Metal siding must be factory finished with a matte, non-reflective surface.
(c) Use of at least two colors of metal siding on the façade is encouraged but not required.
Departures: Other designs will be considered provided the material’s integration and overall façade
composition meets the purpose of the standards.
Figure 20.127.450(4)
Acceptable metal siding examples.
The use of metal siding in each example above is secondary to masonry. The left and right images are more
contemporary in character, whereas the middle image is more rustic and industrial, with more refined windows.
(5) Special conditions and limitations for the use of Exterior Insulation and Finish System
(EIFS). Such material/finishes may be used as a decorative accent cladding material if incorporated
with other permitted materials and compliant with the following:
(a) EIFS is limited to no more than 20 percent of the total façade area and may not be the primary
cladding material.
(b) EIFS must feature a smooth or sand finish only.
(c) EIFS must be trimmed in wood, masonry, or other material and must be sheltered from weather
by roof overhangs or other methods.
(d) EIFS must not extend lower than eight feet above grade. Concrete, masonry, or other durable
material must be used for ground level wall surfaces to provide a durable surface where damage
is most likely.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 110 of 114
Departures to allow up to 50 percent coverage of the façade and other design treatments will be
considered provided the material’s integration and overall façade composition meets the purpose of
the standards.
Figure 20.127.450(5)
Acceptable and unacceptable EIFS examples.
Note the use of brick and decorative concrete block on the ground level and EIFS on the second floor of the left image.
The window treatments visible on the second floor add depth and interest to the façade. The right image employs EIFS
between the window and sidewalk - this design is prohibited.
(6) Special conditions and limitations for cementitious wall board paneling/siding. Such
material may be used provided it meets the following provisions:
(a) Cement board paneling/siding may not be used on the ground floor of non-residential or mixed-
use buildings where adjacent to a sidewalk or other pedestrian path.
(b) Where cement board paneling/siding is the dominant siding material, the design must integrate a
mix of colors and/or textures that are articulated consistent with windows, balconies, and
modulated building surfaces and are balanced with façade details that add visual interest from
the ground level and adjacent buildings.
Departures: Other designs will be considered provided the material’s integration and overall façade
composition meets the purpose of the standards.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 111 of 114
Figure 20.127.450(6)
Acceptable and unacceptable cementitious wall board examples.
The above building uses cementitious wall board in different textures and colors to help articulate the façade. The
white color replicates the board and batten style in the left image and green color in the right image effectively
replicates horizontal wood siding.
The wall board panels covering a large area in a single color would not meet the purpose of the standards. The right
image is a better example and combines larger panels (dark maroon color) with horizontal wall board siding (beige
color) as effective articulation features. Below is a similar acceptable example.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 112 of 114
Figure 20.127.450(6)
Acceptable and unacceptable cementitious wall board examples.
Another acceptable wall board
example replicating board and
batten style with horizontal
siding integrated with different
colors and roofline modulation.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 113 of 114
20.127.460 - Blank wall treatments.
(1) Purpose.
(a) To avoid untreated blank walls.
(b) To retain and enhance the character of Port Orchard’s streetscapes.
(2) Blank wall definition. A wall (including building façades and retaining walls) is considered a blank
wall if it is over ten feet in height, has a horizontal length greater than 15 feet, and does not include
a transparent window or door.
Figure 20.127.460(2)
Blank wall definition.
(3) Untreated blank walls visible from a public street, pedestrian-oriented space, common usable
open space, or pedestrian walkway are prohibited. Methods to treat blank walls can include:
(a) Display windows at least 16 inches of depth to allow for changeable displays. Tack on display
cases do not qualify as a blank wall treatment.
(b) Landscape planting bed at least five feet wide or a raised planter bed at least two feet high and
three feet wide in front of the wall with planting materials that are sufficient to obscure or
screen at least 60 percent of the wall’s surface within three years.
(c) Installing a vertical trellis in front of the wall with climbing vines or plant materials.
(d) Installing a mural as approved by the reviewing authority.
(e) Special building detailing that adds visual interest at a pedestrian scale. Such detailing must use a
variety of surfaces; monotonous designs will not meet the purpose of the standards.
For large visible blank walls, a variety of treatments may be required to meet the purpose of the
standards.
Chapter 20.127 Design Standards
Ordinance No. 008-18
Adopted February 27, 2018 Effective April 1, 2018
Page 114 of 114
Figure 20.127.460(3)
Acceptable and unacceptable blank wall treatments.
The left image illustrates that heavy landscaping can be very effective in treating a large blank wall. The building in the
middle image uses a combination of planted trellises and display ads integrated with the building’s architecture along a
façade facing a drive-through. The example in the right image simply doesn’t use enough treatments and the result is a
stark and unwelcome streetscape.
NOTICE OF CITY OF PORT ORCHARD
ORDINANCE
The following is a summary of an Ordinance approved by the Port Orchard City Council at their regular Council
meeting held February 27, 2018.
ORDINANCE NO. 008 ‐18
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT ORCHARD, WASHINGTON,
ADOPTING CHAPTER 20.127 (DESIGN STANDARDS) OF THE PORT
ORCHARD MUNICIPAL CODE, REPEALING ORDINANCE 1479, AMENDING
CHAPTER 20.12 (DEFINITIONS), AMENDING SECTION 20.38 (OVERLAY
DISTRICTS), AMENDING CHAPTER 20.100 (DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS –
DESIGN GUIDELINES), AMENDING CHAPTER 20.124 (DEVELOPMENT
STANDARDS – PARKING AND CIRCULATION), AMENDING CHAPTER
20.128 (DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS ‐ LANDSCAPING); PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY AND CORRECTIONS; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
Copies of Ordinance No. 008‐18 are available for review at the office of the City Clerk of the City of Port Orchard.
Upon written request, a statement of the full text of the Ordinance will be mailed to any interested person without
charge. Thirty days after publication, copies of Ordinance No. 008‐18 will be provided at a nominal charge.
City of Port Orchard
Brandy Rinearson
City Clerk
Published: Friday, March 9, 2018