02/20/2018 - Work Study - Packet
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City of Port Orchard Council Work Study Session
February 20, 2018
6:30 p.m.
1. Design Standards Page 3 (Bond)
Estimated Time: 45 Minutes
2. Pavement Management System Page 163 (Dorsey)
Estimated Time: 20 Minutes
3. Engineering Technician II Position Page 165 (Mayor)
Estimated Time: 10 Minutes
4. GAAP to Cash Accounting Page 173 (Crocker)
Estimated Time: 20 Minutes
5. PSRC Vision 2050 Scoping Notice Page 175 (Bond)
Estimated Time: 20 Minutes
Mayor:
Rob Putaansuu
Administrative Official
Councilmembers:
Bek Ashby
Chair: ED/Tourism/LT Committee
Staff: Development Director
Finance Committee
KRCC / PSRC TransPol / KRCC TransPol
KRCC PlanPol-alt / PRTPO
Shawn Cucciardi
Finance Committee
Land Use Committee
PSRC EDD-alt
Fred Chang
Utilities Committee
Sewer Advisory Committee (SAC)
Staff: Community Development
Jay Rosapepe
ED/Tourism/LT Committee
Utilities Committee
Sewer Advisory Committee (SAC)
KRCC-alt / KRCC TransPol-alt
John Clauson
Chair: Finance Committee
Staff: Finance Director
Kitsap Public Health District-alt
KEDA/KADA-alt
Cindy Lucarelli
Chair: Utilities Committee
Staff: Public Works Director
Sewer Advisory Committee (SAC)
Staff: Public Works Director
Chair: Chimes and Lights Committee
Staff: City Clerk
KEDA/KADA
Scott Diener (Mayor Pro-Tempore)
Chair: Land Use Committee
Staff: Development Director
ED/Tourism/LT Committee
PSRC Growth Mgmt-alt
Department Directors:
Nicholas Bond, AICP
Development Director
Mark Dorsey, P.E.
Director of Public Works/Engineering
Debbie Hunt
Court Administrator
Noah Crocker, M.B.A.
Finance Director
Geoffrey Marti
Police Chief
Brandy Rinearson, MMC, CPRO
City Clerk
Contact us:
216 Prospect Street
Port Orchard, WA 98366
(360) 876-4407
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City of Port Orchard
Work Study Session Executive Summary
Issue Title: Design Standards
Meeting Date: February 20, 2018
Time Required: 45 Minutes
Attendees: Nick Bond, Community Development Director; Bob Bengford, MAKERS
Architecture and Urban Design
Background/Issue: In 2016, the Mayor and City Council expressed concerns about the quality of
some recent developments within the City, and requested the Department of Community
Development to begin working toward design standards for new and remodeled single‐family
and duplex residential development. In June 2017, the resulting design standards were adopted
as Chapter 20.139 of Title 20 (Unified Land Use and Development Code) POMC, which became
effective on September 1, 2017.
For multi‐family and commercial development, the City budgeted funds and selected a
consultant, MAKERS Architecture and Urban Design, to assist in the creation of design standards
for these types of development. A citizen review committee was also appointed to work with
staff and MAKERS on the initial draft. The draft Design Standards were presented by MAKERS at
a public open house in November 2017. A public hearing was held by the Planning Commission
at its January and February 2018 meetings, and testimony was received from one person. The
draft Design Standards were also provided in January 2018 to the citizen review committee for
additional comments (none received). The draft Design Standards were then provided to City
Council in February 2018 for an initial review.
On February 6, 2018, the Planning Commission recommended that the City Council adopt the
Design Standards as presented, subject to several corrections and revisions, including:
Map #3: Include Taylor Street as a “Landscape” street.
Map #5: Extend “Mixed” street designation to east side of movie theater on Mile Hill Rd.
Clarify review and permitting authority in several places in the document.
Revise parking location recommendations for “Marine” designation along the north side
of Bay Street, so that parking is not encouraged to be at the rear of these buildings (i.e.,
along the waterfront).
Action Requested at this Meeting: Discuss draft Design Standards, ask any questions, provide
feedback to staff and consultants, and set a date to consider the ordinance.
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ES Design Standards
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These changes have been incorporated into the draft presented at this meeting.
The design standards as prepared by Maker’s architecture also required changes to other code
sections and ordinances to ensure internal consistency including:
Repealing Ordinance 1479 concerning access from Port Orchard Blvd.
Amending Chapter 2.78 concerning the Design Review Board.
Amending Chapter 20.12 to add new definitions related to the new design standards.
Amending POMC Sections 20.38.200‐230 concerning the Downtown Overlay District.
Repealing POMC Sections 20.38.600‐633 concerning the Tremont Overlay District.
Amending POMC Sections 20.100 concerning the City’s existing Development Standards
and Design Guidelines.
Alternatives: Direct staff and consultants to further revise the draft design standards; or, do not
make changes to the draft design standards.
Recommendations: Staff recommends that Council provide direction to the staff and consultants
on any desired revisions to the draft design standards and to set a date to either continue
discussing the ordinance or to consider adoption of the ordinance.
Relationship to Comprehensive Plan: The proposed design standards are supported by the
following goals and policies as found in the comprehensive plan:
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.
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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 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.
Housing Goal 6: Formulate and implement innovative development regulations and design
standards that maintain and strengthen neighborhood character.
Policy HS‐19: Consider commercial building design standards that establish and protect
neighborhood character.
Policy ED‐29: The City shall encourage the redevelopment of strip commercial areas through
changes to the land use code, landscaping code, and signage code.
Transportation Goal 18. Provide aesthetically pleasing streets.
Policy TR‐81 Develop design guidelines and standards for street wise landscaping, sidewalks, and
maintenance within new developments.
Policy TR‐82 Street Design Guidelines: Reflect the more urban nature of roadways within the City
and within residential developments by encouraging, where appropriate, crosswalks and
sidewalks, street trees and landscaping, traffic‐calming strategies.
Attachments: Design Standards Ordinance; Draft Design Standards; Design Standards User
Instruction, Redline changes to existing code sections.
Follow‐up Notes & Outcomes:
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ORDINANCE NO. __ ‐18
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT ORCHARD, WASHINGTON, ADOPTING
CHAPTER 20.127 (DESIGN STANDARDS) OF THE PORT ORCHARD MUNICIPAL CODE;
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 citizens 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; 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
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;
WHEREAS, the design standards in Chapter 20.127 implement numerous
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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.
• 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.
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• 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 2.78 Revised. Chapter 2.78 of the Port Orchard Municipal
Code is hereby revised to read as follows:
Chapter 2.78
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
Sections:
2.78.010 Purpose of board.
2.78.020 Definitions.
2.78.030 Board established – Membership.
2.78.040 Terms of membership.
2.78.050 Meetings.
2.78.060 Powers and duties.
2.78.070 Conflict of interest.
2.78.080 Administrative support.
2.78.010 Purpose of board.
The purpose of the design review board (DRB) is:
(1) To provide recommendations regarding an applications’ consistency with the City’s
adopted design standards.
(2) To review completed projects and evaluate design outcomes for the purposes of
determining whether amendments to the design standards in POMC 20.127 should be
recommended, and to make recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council for
amendments to the City’s Design Standards as found in POMC 20.127.
2.78.020 Definitions.
(1) “Board” or “DRB” means the design review board.
(2) “Director” means the Department of Community Development Director or designee.
(3) “Design standards” means the design and building standards adopted in sections
20.127.
2.78.030 Board established – Membership.
(1) Appointment. There is created a design review board consisting of not less than five
and not more than seven members who shall be appointed by the mayor subject to
confirmation by the city council. Vacancies occurring otherwise than upon the expiration of
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terms may be filled for the unexpired terms by the mayor subject to confirmation by the city
council.
(2) Membership. A five‐member board shall consist of three lay members who reside
within city limits or reside within the Port Orchard urban growth area and have an interest in
architecture, building, or design, and two professional members who reside within city limits or
reside within the Port Orchard urban growth area or own a business within the city of Port
Orchard, and who are desired to have expertise in any one of the following fields: architecture,
landscape architecture, urban design/planning, structural engineering, graphic, industrial, and
interior design, building or carpentry, or similar disciplines. A seven‐member board shall consist
of four lay members and three professional members who meet the qualifications set forth
above.
(3) Compensation. Board members shall serve without compensation.
2.78.040 Terms of membership.
(1) Terms. The initial terms of the appointed positions by position number shall expire
on December 31st of the year set opposite said position number as follows:
Lay Position No. 1 – 2009;
Lay Position No. 2 – 2010;
Lay Position No. 3 – 2011;
Lay Position No. 4 – 2011;
Professional Position No. 5 – 2009;
Professional Position No. 6 – 2010;
Professional Position No. 7 – 2011.
Thereafter the terms of membership for members shall be three years.
(2) Removal. When a member misses three consecutive meetings without excuse by the
board, the position may be declared vacant by a majority vote of the other members of the
board.
2.78.050 Meetings.
(1) Meetings. The board shall meet at such times deemed necessary for conducting
business.
(2) Quorum. No business shall be conducted without a quorum at the meeting. A
quorum shall exist when the meeting is attended by a majority of the members of the board,
which may include the chairperson.
(3) Chairperson. The board shall elect one of its members to serve as chairperson for a
term of one year. The chairperson may be elected to serve one consecutive additional term, but
not for more than two successive terms.
(4) Voting. All actions of the board shall be represented by a vote of the membership.
Unless otherwise provided in this chapter, a simple majority of the members present at the
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meeting in which action is taken shall approve any action taken. The chairperson may vote at
the meetings.
(5) Rules and Procedures. The board may adopt rules and procedures it deems
necessary for the conducting of business.
2.78.060 Powers and duties.
The board is not delegated any executive or legislative power, authority or responsibility
and is not acting on behalf of the city council or the mayor but rather serves in an advisory
capacity and makes recommendations. The powers and duties of the board shall consist of the
following:
(1) Application Review. Review applications for compliance with design standards as
prescribed elsewhere in this code and make recommendations regarding the consistency of
projects with adopted design standards.
(2) Annual Review and Recommendations. The Board shall meet at least once annually
to review completed projects and evaluate design outcomes for the purposes of determining
whether amendments to the design standards (POMC 20.127) are required. The design review
board shall make its recommendation, even if it recommends that no changes are required,
prior to December 31 every year.
(3) Such other design‐related matters as shall be referred to the board for review and
recommendation by the mayor or city council.
2.78.080 Administrative support.
The Department of Community Development shall provide administrative support for
the board.
SECTION 5. 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.
“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 façades 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.
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“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 façade 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).
“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.
“Modulation” shall mean stepping forward or backwards a portion of the façade as a
means to articulate or add visual interest to the façade .
“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).
“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.
“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 façades,
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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 façade 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.
SECTION 6. 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).
(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.
(c) Maintain view corridors.
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(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.
(l) 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.
(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.
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(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.
(l) Health services, including offices, patient clinics, and medical/dental laboratories
above the first floor.
(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 above the
first floor.
(v) Public agency offices above the first floor.
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(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.
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.
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.
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(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
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.
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.
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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.,
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;
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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.
(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.
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.
SECTION 7. 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 8. POMC Chapter 20.100 Revised. POMC Chapter 20.100 of the Port Orchard
Municipal Code is hereby revised to read as follows:
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
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(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.
(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.
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(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.
(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 9. 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 10. 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 11. Effective Date. This ordinance shall be published in the official newspaper
of the city and shall take full force and effect five (5) days after the date of publication. A
summary of this ordinance in the form of the ordinance title may be published in lieu of
publishing the ordinance in its entirety.
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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 **th day of ** 2018.
______
Robert Putaansuu, Mayor
ATTEST:
________
Brandy Rinearson, CMC, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM: Sponsored by:
_________________ ______________________
Sharon Cates, City Attorney **, Councilmember
PUBLISHED:
EFFECTIVE DATE:
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ATTACHED: EXHIBIT 1 (CHAPTER 20.127, DESIGN STANDARDS)
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ORDINANCE NO. ____ ‐ EXHIBIT 1
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 Mixed 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.
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20.127.330 Non‐motorized circulation and design.
20.127.340 Vehicular circulation and parking.
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
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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.
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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 directorreviewing authority 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.
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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.
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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 typereviewing authority, 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.
(viii) Landscaping elements (common or scientific name and size) and design (layout and
location).
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(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.
(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.
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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 Department of Community Development Director or their designee city
to evaluate consistency with the design standards found in this chapter.
(2) Anyone seeking pre-submittal design review shall:
(a) Ccomplete an application form.
(b), pPay the appropriate fee as set by resolution., and s
(b) Submit these conceptual plans along with the materials listed in POMC 20.127.040 to the
Department of Community Development.
(3) The directorDepartment of Community Development Director or their designee city 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 section 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.
(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.
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(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.
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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 Mixed (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.
(d) Weather protection.
(e) Landscaping.
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The community design framework maps also identify high visibility street corner sites that warrant
special design treatment. Refer to POMC 20.127.250 for high visibility street corner requirements.
(2) Block frontage standards for individual properties depend on the type of street properties
front onto. Thus, consider the following steps in using this Article:
(a) Go to the maps in POMC 20.127.130 to find the property and the block frontage type
designation for the street or streets fronting the property. For properties in residential zones,
the standards for Landscaped block frontages apply (POMC 20.127.160). For properties that
front onto multiple streets, see POMC 20.127.240.
(b) Table 20.127.120(2) summarizes standards for each of the designated block frontage types. Go
to the appropriate section in this Article for the detailed and applicable block frontage standards
for applicable block frontage type designation.
Table 20.127.120(2)
Summary of block frontage types.
Design Cross
Section Example Parking Location Other Key Provisions Storefront
Surface parking lots shall be located to the rear,
below, or above storefronts. Parking on the side
and front of buildings is prohibited.
Special 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. if For multi-building
developments, no more than 50 percent of the
street frontage is 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 Mixed Storefront or Landscape
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Table 20.127.120(2)
Summary of block frontage types.
Design Cross
Section Example Parking Location Other Key Provisions Marine Storefront or Landscape
Parking must be located 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 on
properties subject to the Marine designation.
Parking to the rear of a building 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. (See section 20.127.180 (3) for
departure criteria) 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 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
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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.
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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.
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
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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
reducing the minimum weather protection
depth.
For downtown properties on Bay Street
and adjacent to the city-owned marquee,
new development may utilize the existing
marquee (subject to approval by the
Public Works Director) or new
independent weather protection to meet
this provision.
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Table 20.127.150(2)
Storefront block frontage standards.
Element Standards Examples & Notes
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;
(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
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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.
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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.
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(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.
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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.
New parking structures must feature
landscaped setbacks at least 10 feet in
width.
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.
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(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.
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20.127.170 - Mixed block frontage standards.
(1) Description/purpose. The Mixed 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)
Mixed block frontage options and standards.
Storefront Landscaped Frontage
OR
(2) Standards. All development as set forth in POMC 20.127.130 on sites containing a Mixed block
frontage have the option to comply with either the Storefront or Landscaped block frontage
provisions as set forth above, with the following modifications (on applicable block frontages):
Table 20.127.170(2)
Mixed 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.
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Table 20.127.170(2)
Mixed block frontage standards.
Element Standards Examples & Notes
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.
(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.
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Figure 20.127.170(3)
Stoop examples.
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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.
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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, front, rear, below, or above
uses.
For multi-building developments,
surface and structured parking
areas (ground floor) are limited to
Nno 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 offstreet parking areas,
which meets the landscaping
requirements of Chapter 20.128.
Provide a 10 feet minimum buffer
of landscaping between the street
and off street parking areas
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Table 20.127.180(2)
Marine block frontage standards.
Element Standards Examples & Notes
meeting the landscaping
requirements of Chapter 20.128
POMC. Landscaping and other
design features must successfully
mitigate the visual impact of
parking areas along designated
Marine streets.
New parking structures must
feature landscaped setbacks at
least 10 feet in width.
(3) Departure criteria.
(a) Minimum setback. For residential uses, provide design treatments that create an effective
transition between the public and private realm. This could include a stoop design or other
similar treatments that utilize a low fence, retaining wall, and/or hedge along the sidewalk.
(b) 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 (in the front 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 if there is 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 Marine streets.the street.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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(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)
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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.
Parking location There are no parking lot location restrictions.
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Table 20.127.210(2)
Other block frontage standards.
Element Standards
Also see Chapter 20.124
POMC for related parking
requirements
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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) Mixed.
(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 mixed 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.
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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.
(iv) Distinctive façade articulation.
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(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
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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 mixed block frontages as set forth in subsection (4) of this section.
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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.
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.
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(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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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.
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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.
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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(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 proposedwill be considered. 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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(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 examinerreviewing authority, 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.
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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.
(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.
(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.
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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.
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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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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) All sides of drive-through accessory signs must be screened from the view of the
street or public right-of-way with landscaping and/or walls of brick, stone or siding materials
that match the principal walls of the building to which the sign applies. If landscaping is used
for screening, it must provide full screening at maturity and must be large enough at planting
to provide at least 70 percent screening of the sign.
(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
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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.
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.
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(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
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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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.
(c) Features prohibited within a pedestrian-oriented space.
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(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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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 examinerreviewing authority may require evidence that such
elements will not significantly impact neighboring properties or public areas. (For example, the
reviewing authority may require 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 by the reviewing authority 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. The reviewing authority may require Ppedestrian-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
unsightly views. The horizontal screen/cover should be integrated into the enclosure design
and compatible with adjacent development.
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(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.
(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
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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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 Bravoce 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.
(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
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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”.
(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).
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(b) Consider the applicable block frontage designation. Undesignated block frontages warrant more
flexibility than block frontages designated as mixed 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.
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.
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(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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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 on East Main (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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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.
D = decorative mosaic tile work. E = decorative bulkhead. F = Decorative materials and design.
A
B
C
F
E
D
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(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.
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.
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(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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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DRAFT Port Orchard Design Standards
2/14/2018
OVERVIEW
(1) Project Goals
The Design Standards are a key tool in implementing the goals and policies of Port Orchard’s
Comprehensive Plan. Specific goals:
Provide clear objectives for those embarking on development projects in Port Orchard.
Ensure that new commercial and multi-household development is of high quality and beneficially
contributes to Port Orchard’s character.
Promote Port Orchard’s quality of life for residents and businesses
Upgrade the visual appearance of Port Orchard’s principal vehicular corridors.
Ensure that new developments within existing neighborhoods are compatible with, and enhance the
character of, Port Orchard’s neighborhoods.
Promote an increase in walking and bicycling throughout the city.
Maintain and enhance property values within Port Orchard.
(II) Suggested Regulatory Approach: Providing Predictability AND Flexibility
The Design Standards seek to provide a combination of predictability and flexibility that fits the Port
Orchard situation. We’ve often called this the “Guidard” approach – which strategically integrates
standards and guidelines. Our suggested way to accomplish this is to:
Provide clear minimum standards so applicants and decision
makers understand what the base requirements are. This is where we
need to be clear about what’s the minimum acceptable compliance level,
whether it’s the amount of façade transparency along a street, the
amount of usable open space that’s required, or the maximum width of
a building before some form of articulation or modulation is needed to
break up the building’s massing.
Offer a number of ways of meeting particular standards. For
example, many standards include a toolbox of options, whereby the
applicant needs to accomplish one or more of the choices. This allows
the applicant some flexibility in designing the project. It also allows the
applicant some control over design and materials costs. On our end, we
need to make sure that the minimum standards meet the city’s design objectives, but aren’t so
difficult to achieve that they increase costs excessively or overly restrict design.
Offer strategic departure opportunities. These allow applicants to propose alternative
techniques to comply with specific standards. Unlike variances, departures are voluntary options.
Applicants need to demonstrate how such alternative designs meet the purpose and other special
departure criteria. We suggest that departures are offered only for certain standards where
flexibility is warranted.
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DESIGN STANDARDS ‐
REVISIONS TO EXISTING CODE
Repeal Ordinance 1478 prohibiting access from Port Orchard Boulevard.
Chapter 2.78
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
Sections:
2.78.0102.78.010 Purpose of board.
2.78.0202.78.020 Definitions.
2.78.0302.78.030 Board established – Membership.
2.78.0402.78.040 Terms of membership.
2.78.0502.78.050 Meetings.
2.78.0602.78.060 Powers and duties.
2.78.0702.78.070 Conflict of interest.
2.78.0802.78.080 Administrative support.
2.78.010 Purpose of board.
The purpose of the design review board (DRB) is:
(1) Tto review development applications associated with development in the downtown overlay district
area. The DRB will review applications and makeprovide recommendations to the director of planning
regarding the an applications’ consistency with the City’s adopted design guidelinesstandards.
(2) To review completed projects and evaluate design outcomes for the purposes of determining
whether amendments to the design standards (POMC 20.128‐131) should be recommended, and to
make recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council for amendments to the City’s
Design Standards as found in POMC 20.128.
2.78.020 Definitions.
(1) “Board” or “DRB” means the design review board.
(2) “Director” means the director of planningDepartment of Community Development Director or
designee.
(3) “Design guidelinesstandards” means the design and building standards for the downtown overlay
district as now or hereafter adopted by city council resolution or ordinance.adopted in sections 20.128.
(Ord. 006‐08 § 1; Ord. 035‐07 § 1).
2.78.030 Board established – Membership.
(1) Appointment. There is created a design review board consisting of not less than five and not more
than seven members who shall be appointed by the mayor subject to confirmation by the city council.
Vacancies occurring otherwise than upon the expiration of terms may be filled for the unexpired terms
by the mayor subject to confirmation by the city council.
(2) Membership. A five‐member board shall consist of three lay members who reside within city limits or
reside within the Port Orchard urban growth area and have an interest in architecture, building, or
design, and two professional members who reside within city limits or reside within the Port Orchard
urban growth area or own a business within the city of Port Orchard, and who are desired to have
expertise in any one of the following fields: architecture, landscape architecture, urban design/planning,
structural engineering, graphic, industrial, and interior design, building or carpentry, or similar
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disciplines. A seven‐member board shall consist of four lay members and three professional members
who meet the qualifications set forth above.
(3) Compensation. Board members shall serve without compensation.
2.78.040 Terms of membership.
(1) Terms. The initial terms of the appointed positions by position number shall expire on December
31st of the year set opposite said position number as follows:
Lay Position No. 1 – 2009;
Lay Position No. 2 – 2010;
Lay Position No. 3 – 2011;
Lay Position No. 4 – 2011;
Professional Position No. 5 – 2009;
Professional Position No. 6 – 2010;
Professional Position No. 7 – 2011.
Thereafter the terms of membership for members shall be three years. No person shall serve more than
two full consecutive terms. An appointment to fill a portion of an unexpired term less than one year in
length shall not be considered a full term.
(2) Removal. When a member misses three consecutive meetings without excuse by the board, the
position may be declared vacant by a majority vote of the other members of the board.
2.78.050 Meetings.
(1) Meetings. The board shall meet at such times deemed necessary for conducting business.
(2) Quorum. No business shall be conducted without a quorum at the meeting. A quorum shall exist
when the meeting is attended by a majority of the members of the board, which may include the
chairperson.
(3) Chairperson. The board shall elect one of its members to serve as chairperson for a term of one year.
The chairperson may be elected to serve one consecutive additional term, but not for more than two
successive terms.
(4) Voting. All actions of the board shall be represented by a vote of the membership. Unless otherwise
provided in this chapter and Chapter 18.94 POMC, a simple majority of the members present at the
meeting in which action is taken shall approve any action taken. The chairperson may vote at the
meetings.
(5) Rules and Procedures. The board may adopt rules and procedures it deems necessary for the
conducting of business.
2.78.060 Powers and duties.
The board is not delegated any executive or legislative power, authority or responsibility and is not
acting on behalf of the city council or the mayor but rather serves in an advisory capacity and makes
recommendations to the director. The powers and duties of the board shall consist of the following:
(1) Preapplication Meeting. One member of the board shall, whenever possible, attend the pre‐
application meeting with staff and the proponent of a project that is subject to design guidelines. The
chairperson shall be responsible for ensuring that this duty is rotated among the board’s members.
(21) Application Review. Review all applications for building permits in areas having adopted design
guidelines compliance with design standards as prescribed elsewhere in this code and make
recommendations regarding the consistency of projects with adopted design standards. The board shall
review the application for consistency with the applicable design guidelines and make a
recommendation to the director.
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(3) Biannual Review. Not later than September 30, 2009, and every two years thereafter, provide the
mayor and city council with a written report setting forth the board’s assessment of the design
guidelines, in light of the applications reviewed in the prior two years, and recommending changes to
the design guidelines that are intended to reinforce the purpose of the design guidelines and to provide
greater clarity to applicants.
(42) Annual Review and Recommendations. The Board shall meet at least once annually to review
completed projects and evaluate design outcomes for the purposes of determining whether
amendments to the design standards (POMC 20.128) are required. The design review board shall make
its recommendation, even if it recommends that no changes are required, prior to December 31 every
year.
(3) Such other design‐related matters as shall be referred to the board for review and recommendation
by the mayor or city council.
2.78.070 Conflict of interest.
A member of the board shall not participate in review of a project for which the member has a conflict
of interest.
2.78.080 Administrative support.
The planning Department of Community Developmentdepartment shall provide administrative support
for the board.
20.38.200 Downtown overlay district (map designation ‐dod).
(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) Unless exempt pursuant to POMC 20.38.226, no city permit or approval shall be issued for,
and no person shall start, any development that is subject to the design review process until
the development has received design review approval.
(32) 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.
(c) Encourage imaginative site and building design and development while maintaining viewMaintain
view corridors and a small town feel.
(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 energy conservation in building design and layout.
(h) Promote an integrated system of pedestrian‐friendly walkways and parking areas.
(i) Enhance the city’s waterfront character while maintaining the maritime presence.
(jg) Encourage the development of buildings with ground floor retail with office uses and residential
uses above.
(kh) Promote a walkable community by encouraging the development of public open spaces, waterfront
access, and pedestrian‐friendly walkways.
(l) Locate and combine parking areas in order to minimize the number of points of access to and from
Bay Street.
Formatted: Space After: 0 pt, Line spacing: single
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(m) Encourage architectural and site designs that serve as gathering places in wet and dry
conditions.
(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.
(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.
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(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.
(l) Health services, including offices, patient clinics, and medical/dental laboratories above the first floor.
(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 above the first floor.
(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 Titlepter.
20.38.202 DOD – Nonconforming uses.
(1) All existing nonresidential uses other than the uses specified in POMC 20.38.201 shall be
legally nonconforming uses. Provided, an existing nonresidential use may be expanded if the
expansion does not more than double the square footage of the use as it existed on the
effective date of these regulations.
(2) All existing single‐family detached residential uses shall be legally nonconforming uses and
may be expanded, altered, or rebuilt provided the structure continues to comply with this
subtitle.
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;
(2) Any building or structure that exceeds the maximum allowable building heights set forth in
POMC 20.38.211 through 20.38.213 and 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;
(2) Project will be designed in accordance with the design standards set forth in POMC
20.38.217 through 20.38.223; and
(3) The applicant agrees to provide a special amenity or amenities as listed in POMC 20.38.214
with a monetary value of one percent of the value of the new/proposed building and land. This
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requirement shall be in addition to any amenity(ies) that the applicant is providing in order to
exceed the basic allowable structure height.
20.38.205 DOD – Lot area.
No minimum lot size is required within the central DOD area. It is the intent of this title that each
enterprise or use be located on a site commensurate with its use and sufficient to meet the
requirements for off‐street parking, loading and unloading, and setbacks.
20.38.206 DOD – Lot coverage.
Development shall comply with the maximum land coverage requirements for the underlying zone, as
set forth in Subtitle V of this Title; provided, there is no maximum lot coverage for development on
either side of Bay Street between Harrison Avenue and Orchard Avenue.
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:
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(1) Meets the requirements for a conditional use permit, as set forth in Chapter 20.50 POMC;
(2) P provides water access and/or views amenities or other special amenities a special amenity(ies) in
accordance with POMC 20.38.2144 with a monetary value of one percent of the value of the
new/proposed building and land; and.
(3) Complies with the requirements of POMC 20.38.218 regarding reduced floor area above 27
feet. Provided, in no circumstances shall the maximum allowable structure height exceed 27
feet, which may be increased up to 39 feet when the conditions listed in subsection (1) of this
section are satisfied.
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
when the applicant:
(1) Meets the requirements for a conditional use permit, as set forth in Chapter 20.50 POMC;
(2) Provides provides water access and/or views amenities or other special amenities a special
amenity(ies) in accordance with POMC 20.38.214214. with a monetary value of one percent of
the value of the new/proposed building and land; and
(3) Complies with the requirements of POMC 20.38.218 regarding reduced floor area above 39 feet.
Provided, in no circumstances shall the maximum allowable structure height exceed 39 feet, which may
be increased up to 55 feet when the conditions listed in subsection (2) of this section are satisfied.
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:
(1) Meets the requirements for a conditional use permit, as set forth in Chapter 20.50 POMC;
(2) P provides a water access and/or views amenities or other special amenitiesspecial amenity(ies)
in accordance with POMC 20.38.2144 with a monetary value of one percent of the value of the
new/proposed building and land; and
(3) Complies with the requirements of POMC 20.38.218 regarding reduced floor area above 27 feet.
Provided, in no circumstances shall the maximum allowable structure height exceed 27 feet, which may
be increased up to 39 feet when the conditions listed in subsection (2) of this section are satisfied.
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 with a
conditional use permit (CUP) when the applicant p:
(1) Meets the requirements for a conditional use permit, as set forth in Chapter 20.50 POMC;
(2) Provides a water access and/or views amenities or other special amenities special amenity(ies) in
accordance with POMC 20.38.214 with a monetary value of one percent of the value of the
new/proposed building and land; and
(3) Complies with the requirements of POMC 20.38.219 regarding reduced floor area above 39 feet.
Provided, in no circumstances shall the maximum allowable structure height exceed 39 feet, which may
be increased up to 55 feet when the conditions listed in subsection (2) of this section are satisfied.
20.38.213 214 DOD – Amenities for maximum building and structure height.
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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 re quired
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:One or more special amenities at a cost at
least equal to the monetary values set forth in POMC 20.38.211 and 20.38.212 are required to
be provided whenever a development proposes to exceed the maximum allowable building
height or structure height, or as provided in POMC 20.38.210. Under no circumstances shall a
building exceed the maximum structure height except as provided in POMC 20.38.211 and
20.38.212. The design of each amenity will be reviewed to ensure that it is appropriate for the
proposed location and provides for a public benefit. All amenities must be maintained for the
life of the building. All amenities must be constructed on the site of the proposed development.
Any one of the following meets the requirement for a special amenity:
(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)
(1) Exterior public space that meets all of 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) Incorporates a variety of trees and other plantings covering at least 20 percent of the
space;
(d) Includes art or water features;
(e) Maximizes solar exposure during the summer; and
(f) Provides access and visibility from the nearest public sidewalk or walkway or signage
to indicate the same.
(2) A water feature that provides access and visibility from the nearest public sidewalk
or walkway or signage to indicate the same.
(3) Public access opportunity by means of a 10‐foot‐wide public sidewalk or walkway
between buildings for the entire length of the property such that the pathway is
perpendicular to an existing public sidewalk and provides mid‐block access between
existing buildings. At least 20 percent of the area shall be landscaped.
(4) For waterfront development, a water view opportunity by means of a 10‐foot‐wide
public pathway along the property perimeter down one side line of the property for the
entire length of the property to mean higher high water, bulkhead, or to the waterside
face of a structure, whichever is further waterward, then across the waterside face of
the property or structure.
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(5) Water view opportunity by means of a public viewing platform. The minimum area of
the platform shall be 25 percent of the structure’s footprint. The platform may have
access that is independent from the primary access in and out of the building. The
platform shall also contain landscaping elements. Railings around the platform may
exceed the maximum height permitted for the structure. In addition, the public viewing
platform shall comply with the following requirements:
(a) Seating shall be provided at one seat for each 100 square feet of public space;
(b) Incorporate a variety of trees and other plantings covering at least 20 percent of the
space;
(c) Include art or water features; and
(d) Has direct solar exposure during the summer.
(1) (6) 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)
(5)
(6) (7) 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.,
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)
(2) (8) For waterfront development, a harbor access opportunity by means of public access
to transient moorage for up to two 30‐foot boats, which must have a minimum water depth of
eight feet, must be easily accessible to visiting boats, and posted with signage that can be read
at a distance of 100 feet.
(9) A vegetated roof as defined in the “Low Impact Development Technical Guidance
Manual for Puget Sound” (January 2005), as now or hereafter amended. Provided, a
minimum of 50 percent of the total rooftop area of the building, excluding the space
occupied by mechanical equipment, shall meet the requirements of a vegetated roof. As
used herein, the rooftop area is not limited to the uppermost portion of the building but
includes all roof areas.
(10) With regards to the special amenities described in subsections (1), (2), and (3) of
this section, nothing shall prohibit two or more property owners from combining their
several special amenity obligations into a single amenity; provided, the amenity is
constructed on at least one of the parcels being developed. When two or more property
owners combine their special amenity obligations, then the requirements for the
combined single amenity shall be 100 percent of what would otherwise have been
required if done separately.
(11) With regards to the special amenities described in subsections (1) and (2) of this
section, a property owner may apply to the city to contribute to an amenity to be built
on public land within the central DOD; provided the property owner must contribute an
amount equal to two percent of the value of the new/proposed building and land. The
city shall have sole discretion to accept or reject the application as it deems appropriate.
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(3)(7) (12) An 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)
(4)(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 16.4520.124 POMC shall apply unless a more
restrictive specific provision is set forth in the DOD specific parking standards in Subtitle VI.
20.38.216 DOD – Design and building standards.
The design and building standards set forth in POMC 20.38.218 through 20.38.225 shall be
interpreted and applied so as to promote development that is compatible with the city’s
historic character and the scale of existing buildings, to maintain views, and to create a
pedestrian‐friendly environment, and shall be used during the Design Review Board (DRB)
review of all development applications.
20.38.217 DOD – Rooftop mechanical equipment and roof design.
(1) Rooftop mechanical equipment shall be concealed from view by a roof form integrated with
the overall architecture of the building, either by locating the equipment within the structure or
concealing it from view behind a parapet that is at least as high as the equipment. Views of
rooftop mechanical equipment from nearby hillsides shall be minimized.
(2) Roof design shall reduce the mass and scale of buildings, add visual interest and prevent
glare. Flat roofs shall have parapets or screening to conceal the roof and mechanical
equipment. Sloping roofs shall have three or more roof planes. When designing rooftops visible
from hillsides, special attention shall be given to prevention of reflective glare and
placement/design of mechanical equipment. Roof gardens or vegetated roofs, as defined in
POMC 20.38.214(9), are encouraged. Roof ridgelines that are perpendicular to Bay Street are
encouraged.
20.38.218 DOD – Structure height modulation.
If the structure height of a building exceeds 39 feet, its height shall be modulated as follows:
(1) If a building’s facade is within 10 feet of a sidewalk, plaza, courtyard, or similar pedestrian
area, then at no higher than 20 feet in height, as measured from finished grade, and at each
floor or story above 20 feet its height shall be modulated by adding building elements such as a
wing of the building, trellis, lower roof overhand, horizontal projection at least two feet deep,
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awning, balcony, or other architectural feature to reduce the apparent height to a more human
scale.
(2) For structures on lots that are between Bay Street and Prospect Street/Alley and that abut
Bay Street, above 39 feet, the gross floor area shall be not more than 75 percent of the gross
floor area immediately below, which shall be designed and constructed to create view corridors
perpendicular to Bay Street on one or both sides of the structure that rises in excess of 39 feet
in height.
(3) For structures north of Bay Street or south of Bay Street that do not abut Bay Street, above
27 feet, the gross floor area shall be not more than 75 percent of the gross floor area
immediately below, which shall be designed and constructed to create view corridors
perpendicular to Bay Street on one or both sides of the structure that rises in excess of 27 feet
in height.
(4) All view corridors should be located to maximize the views and solar access of neighboring
lots.
20.38.219 DOD – Building facades.
(1) A building facade, whether the front, side, or rear of the building, that exceeds 50 feet in
length shall be broken down into smaller elements by jogging the wall in or out a minimum of
four feet for at least 10 feet of length, or by adding an element such as a porch, recessed entry,
bay window, projecting trellis, or similar substantial architectural feature at least four feet deep
by 10 feet wide by one story high, at intervals so that no continuous wall plane is more than 50
feet in length.
(2) Any sidewalk level building facade that faces a downtown street shall have at least 30
percent of the street level frontage area in transparent glass windows.
(3) Every building north of Bay Street that is on a waterfront lot shall have attractive front
facade qualities on both the street frontage and the side facing the waterfront.
20.38.220 DOD – Service and loading areas.
Dumpsters, loading platforms, storage areas, and similar functions shall be screened from
public rights‐of‐way and adjacent properties by attractive view‐obstructing fencing, dense
landscaping, or other improvements. Screening shall be at least six feet in height and shall be
complementary to building design and materials. The use of a chain link‐slat combination for
fencing is prohibited. On waterfront lots, dumpsters and storage areas shall be located to the
side of the building, and not between the building and the water. Wherever possible, adjoining
property owners are encouraged to designate a common area for dumpsters and storage.
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 provided it is structurally sound and consistent with the
design guidelines set forth in these regulations. 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
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amount to be determined by the city engineer so as toto 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.
(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.
20.38.222 DOD – Building exteriors and materials.
(1) High‐quality materials and colors should bring a visually interesting experience into the
streetscape. Color should be carefully considered in relation to the overall design of the
building and surrounding buildings. Variations in materials and colors should be generally
limited to what is required for contrast or to accentuate architectural features. Piecemeal
embellishments and frequent changes in materials are to be avoided. Building design and
materials should embody the distinctive characteristics of the late nineteenth and early
twentieth centuries.
(2) Exterior building facades should be constructed of high‐quality and durable materials such
as brick, concrete tinted a subdued or earthen color, sandstone, similar stone facing material,
wood siding or other building materials consistent with this section. Aluminum, painted metal,
wood, and other materials may be used for signs, window and door sashes and trim, and for
similar purposes when compatible with adjacent uses. Materials and colors should be used with
consistency on all sides of a building. Materials which are prohibited on the exterior facades
include beveled metal siding, mirrored glass, and vinyl siding.
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.
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.
(2) Pedestrian walkways must be visually distinct from parking lot and driveway surfaces and
shall be characterized by concrete or masonry materials. Walkways must be functionally
separate from parking lots and driveways except where the crossings are located. Plans shall
indicate details regarding pedestrian walkway surface treatments, planned interruptions,
widths, course and lighting.
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20.38.225 DOD – Design review process.
(1) Application. The design and building standards set forth for the DOD sections of this chapter
(POMC 20.38.200 through 20.38.231) apply to the following activities within the central DOD:
(a) Developing an undeveloped site;
(b) Constructing or locating a new building on a developed site;
(c) Adding a new floor area to an existing building; or
(d) Changing the exterior appearance of over 20 percent of a facade visible from a public right‐
of‐way, park, or the water.
(2) Exemptions. The following activities are exempt from the design review and building
standards set forth in this section:
(a) Any activity which does not require a building permit;
(b) Any activity on the exterior of a building for which the total cost or fair market value,
whichever is higher, does not exceed $5,000;
(c) Interior work which does not alter the exterior of the structure; or
(d) Normal building maintenance including the repair or maintenance of structural members.
20.38.226 DOD – Preapplication meeting.
The proponent of a development project subject to design review shall meet with staff and one
member of the design review board (DRB) at a pre‐application meeting to identify and review
applicable design guidelines. Staff shall identify the appropriate permit process, provide a list of
application materials, and provide design recommendations based upon applicable standards.
This pre‐application meeting shall be part of the overall land use or building preapplication
meeting covering other project‐related issues.
20.38.227 DOD – Application requirements.
Applications for design review shall be submitted to the planning department and shall consist
of a completed application on a form prescribed by the planning department, the appropriate
fee and the following materials:
(1) Preliminary architectural renderings with elevations and details of architectural features,
but not construction ready documents.
(2) The type and finished color of exterior siding, windows and roofing to be used, signs and
trim to the extent known. The applicant is encouraged but not required to provide sample
colors of all factory finished materials.
(3) Site plan (including landscaping details if required) drawn to scale no smaller than one inch
equals 30 feet showing location and size of all structures, buffer areas, yards, open spaces,
common areas or plazas, walkways, and parking areas sufficiently complete to show
comprehensive project design.
(4) Details on how mechanical and utility equipment will be screened.
(5) Color, type, and specification of all fencing materials.
(6) The type, model, color, location, height, wattage, and area of illumination for all outdoor
light fixtures.
(7) The type, model, location, and color of all outdoor furniture, trash receptacles, accessories,
and such other items as the director of planning deems necessary for effective review.
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20.38.228 DOD – Design review procedure and appeals.
After the applicant has attended a preapplication meeting pursuant to POMC 20.38.227 and
submitted a complete design review application pursuant to POMC 20.38.228 then the
development project shall be considered in the following manner:
(1) The planning director shall schedule a meeting with the applicant and the DRB. The planning
department shall send notice of the meeting to property owners within 300 feet of the subject
property. The meeting shall be open to the public and shall consist of a presentation by the
applicant, or his representative, that focuses on how the proposed design meets the criteria of
the applicable design and building standards. The DRB will ask clarifying questions and take
public comment.
(2) The DRB shall review the application materials to determine whether the proposed
development meets the identified standards. The DRB shall provide a written recommendation
to the director for approval, approval with conditions, or denial.
(3) It is possible that an alternative design or departure from the design standards may fulfill
the intent and objectives of the applicable design standards and this chapter, while not
complying with the requirements of those standards. The DRB may recommend approval or
approval with conditions for an application that proposes an alternative design or departure
from the design standards provided:
(a) The recommendation is approved by three‐quarters or more of the appointed members of
the DRB;
(b) The alternative design or design departure is consistent with the purposes, intent, and
objectives of the applicable design standards;
(c) Approval will not constitute a grant of special privilege inconsistent with the limitation upon
uses of properties in the vicinity of the subject property; and
(d) Due to the physical characteristics and/or existing buildings on the site or on abutting
properties, or due to unique characteristics of the site, strict adherence to the applicable design
standards would create an unreasonable hardship for the applicant or would be unsafe.
(4) The applicant may request additional meetings with planning staff or the DRB, for instance,
in circumstances where the applicant has subsequently made extensive revision and desires
reconsideration of his request. Should the proposed development be found to have one or
more standards that have not been successfully addressed, the DRB or staff will work with the
applicant to remedy, if possible, the identified circumstances. If it is not possible to come to a
workable solution, the DRB may recommend denial of the proposal.
(5) Once the planning director has received the DRB’s recommendation, an open record hearing
before the city council shall be scheduled for the application or both the application and the
underlying permit application.
(6) The DRB’s recommendation shall hold substantial weight. Following the public hearing and
consideration of the DRB’s recommendation, the city council shall grant, deny, or conditionally
approve the design features of the proposed development. Any deviation from the DRB’s
recommendation shall be documented in the city council’s findings and conclusions.
(7) The city council’s decision shall be a final decision and is appealable to Kitsap County
superior court.
20.38.229 DOD – Duration of approval.
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(1) Time Limit. Construction on development projects that receive design approval shall
commence within 12 months from the date of design approval, or the city council’s approval
shall be null and void unless the applicant submits a fully completed application for an
extension of time prior to the expiration date. For the purposes of this section, the date of
approval shall be the date on which the city council’s took final action on design approval. In
the event of an appeal, the date of approval shall be the date on which a final decision is
entered by a court of competent jurisdiction.
(2) Time Extension. The applicant may apply for a one‐time extension of up to one year by
submitting a letter, prior to the date that approval lapses, to the planning director along with
any other supplemental documentation which the director may require, which demonstrates
that circumstances beyond the applicant’s control are preventing timely compliance. In the
event of an appeal, the one‐year extension shall commence from the date a final decision is
entered in favor of such extension. The applicant shall include with the letter of request such
fee as the city may require, if any.
(3) Review of Request for Extension. The review of a request for an extension shall be reviewed
by the planning director as an administrative determination.
20.38.230 DOD – Approval runs with the land.
Subject to the time limits set forth in POMC 20.38.230, the design approval for a project shall remain in
force upon a change of ownership of the site, business, or use that was the subject of the permit
application. In the event the new owner desires to change existing design aspects that are otherwise
regulated by applicable design and building standards, then the new owner must submit a new
application for design review and comply with the provisions of this chapter.
20.38.600 Tremont Street corridor overlay district (TRMT) (map designation ‐trmt).
(1). Boundaries. The TRMT is an overlay district which shall be delineated on the city’s official zoning
map.
(2). Purposes. The purpose of the Tremont Street corridor overlay district (TRMT) is to:
a. Provide site development standards which establish minimum regulations for all development
within the specific plan area and which contribute to a high quality of development; and
b. Create an attractive gateway to Port Orchard along one of the primary corridors that visitors
would utilize to reach the downtown city center and waterfront.
20.38.601 TRMT – Compliance with Design Standards.
Compliance with the TRMT standards is required for all new construction of structures and for
modifications to an existing structure whereby the interior square footage of an existing structure is
increased by 50 percent or more.
20.38.602 TRMT – Exemptions.
The following actions are exempt from the TRMT standards:
(1). The modification of existing single‐family structures;
(2). Demolition of existing structures;
(3). Any interior building remodeling or alterations that are not included in POMC Section 16.20.601;
and
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(4). The repair of existing structure exteriors provided that exterior materials are replaced in kind or
are brought into compliance with, POMC Sections 16.20.600 through 16.20.633, except where the
threshold in 16.20.601 is met or exceeded.
20.38.603 TRMT – Preapplication meetings encouraged.
All applicants for new development within the TRMT overlay district, except for those actions which are
exempt in POMC 20.38.602, are encouraged to complete a preapplication meeting process with the city
prior to submitting applications for a master development permit and/or building permits. While
preapplication meetings are encouraged, applications for building permits may be submitted at any
time.
20.38.604 TRMT – Project application requirements.
(1) In order to develop property in the TRMT zone, a property owner must obtain a stormwater
management permit and a building permit as required by this Title. A property owner may submit these
permit applications separately or concurrently, but a building permit will not issue prior to approval of
the clearing and grading permit.
(2) At the time the stormwater management permit application is submitted for development in the
TRMT zone, the following materials shall be submitted to make the application complete:
(a) A narrative of the overall project description which demonstrates how it is consistent with the TRMT
design standards and any other applicable city standards, and such other information as will assist in
establishing that the proposal meets the TRMT requirements and purposes.
(b) A site development plan, which consists of:
(i) Vicinity map with adjoining street location and names;
(ii) Property boundaries and directions;
(iii) Public and private easements;
(iv) Adjacent land uses for site context purposes;
(v) Proposed building envelopes for all structures including proposed entryway locations and building
orientation to streets;
(vi) A landscape plan including plant lists by name; quantities and size of plantings including the
identification of existing significant trees (over 36 inches in diameter) to be retained; and landscape
perimeter and screen;
(vii) A parking and access plan including: parking entry location from the street; entry construction
details; stall types delineated and dimensioned; location of disabled parking; and parking tabulation
information including shared parking with adjoining uses (within 100 feet).
(c) In addition to the elements of a complete building permit application, building permit applications for
development in the TRMT shall additionally include the following drawings:
(i) Building elevations;
(ii) Refuse container enclosure and gate details;
(iii) Wall sections and details; and
(iv) The type and finished color of exterior siding, windows and roofing to be used, signs and trim to the
extent known.
20.38.605TRMT – Review process.
The permit processing requirements for stormwater management permit applications are described in
Chapter 20.150 POMC. The permit processing requirements for building permit applications are
described in Subtitle II.
20.38.606 TRMT – Appeals.
The hearing examiner’s decision with regard to a TRMT permit shall be appealable to the city council.
The city council shall be the city’s final action for the purpose of any and all appeals.
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20.38.608 TRMT – Front yard setbacks.
Front yard setbacks shall be 20 feet for all buildings. Monument signs may encroach into a front yard
setback provided they are set back at least five feet from the front property line and any sidewalk. No
parking may encroach into the front yard setback. All front yard setbacks shall be landscaped.
20.38.609 TRMT – Side yard setbacks.
No side yard setback is required except in the following conditions:
(1) Where adjacent to a residential district or land use a 10‐foot side yard setback is required.
(2) Where the side yard is adjacent to a public street, the building setback shall be 10 feet. Parking areas
and monument signs may encroach into a side yard setback provided they are set back at least five feet
from the side property line and any sidewalk. All side yard setback areas shall be landscaped.
20.38.610 TRMT – Rear yard setbacks.
No rear yard setback is required except in the following conditions:
(1) Where adjacent to a residential district or land use, then a 15‐foot rear yard setback is required.
(2) Parking and monument signs may encroach into a rear yard setback provided they are set back at
least five feet from the rear property line. All rear yard setbacks shall be landscaped.
20.38.611 TRMT – Lot coverage.
The maximum allowable lot coverage by structures shall be 100 percent for commercial/office uses less
required parking area, landscaping, and setbacks. Residential and multiple‐family developments shall
conform to lot coverage found within their respective zone designations.
20.38.612 TRMT – Minimum street frontage.
The minimum street frontage for any commercial/office development shall be no less than 100 feet. If
necessary, lots of 150 feet or less shall design parking facilities to adjoin future adjacent developments
(combined street access).
20.38.613 TRMT – Building height.
The maximum building height shall be 33 feet as measured to the top of the gable or pitch of the roof.
Uninhabited architectural elements such as spires, towers or rooflines may extend to 35 feet.
20.38.614 Blank walls.
(1) Blank Wall Definition. A wall (including building facades and retaining walls) is considered a blank
wall if:
(a) A ground floor wall or portion of a ground floor wall over six feet in height has a horizontal length
greater than 15 feet and does not include a transparent window or door; or
(b) Any portion of a ground floor wall having a surface area of 400 square feet or greater and does not
include a transparent window or door.
Figure: Blank Wall Definition.
(2) Blank Wall Standards. Untreated blank walls visible from a public street or pedestrian pathway are
prohibited. Methods to treat blank walls can include:
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(a) Display windows at least 16 inches of depth to allow for changeable displays. Tack on display cases
shall 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) 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 intent of the standards. For large visible blank
walls, a variety of treatments may be required to meet the intent of the standards.
Figure: Blank Wall Treatment Examples.
Good and bad blank wall treatment examples. Image A illustrates that heavy landscaping can be very
effective in treating a large blank wall. Image B uses a combination of planted trellises and display ads
integrated with the building’s architecture along a facade facing a drive‐through. Image C simply doesn’t
use enough treatments and the result is a stark and unwelcome streetscape.
20.38.615 TRMT – Building walls and modulation.
All buildings which contain two stories or have a building footprint of more than 10,000 square feet or
which have facade length greater than 100 feet and which are visible from a public street or located
within 100 feet of a residential zone shall use the following elements and features in design and
construction of the building:
(1) No wall plane visible from any public right‐of‐way shall be wider than two and one‐half times the
height of the wall plane (a wall plane is a flat vertical surface on a building facade, which may include
doors, windows, openings, or other incidental recessions that do not extend through to the roofline).
(2) Any wall or portion of a wall which is visible from a public street must contain 35 percent surface
transparency.
(3) All building walls shall provide horizontal modulation consistent with the following standards:
(a) The maximum allowable horizontal length of a building wall between modulations is 100 feet;
(b) The minimum depth of each modulation is three feet; and
(c) The minimum width of each modulation is 15 feet.
(d) As an alternative treatment, horizontal modulation may be provided by installation of one stand of
trees for each required modulation, located within 20 feet of that portion of the building wall requiring
modulation.
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20.38.616 TRMT – Roofline modulation.
(1) Rooflines visible from a public street, open space, or customer parking area must be varied by
emphasizing dormers, gables, stepped roofs, prominent cornice or fascia, or a broken or articulated
roofline. The width of any continuous flat roofline should extend no more than 100 feet without
modulation. Modulation should consist of either:
(a) For flat roofs or facades with a horizontal eave, fascia, or parapet, the minimum vertical dimension of
roofline modulation is the greater of two feet or one‐tenth multiplied by the wall height (finish grade to
top of wall). The required change in elevation noted above may be reduced by approximately one‐half
provided the roofline change corresponds with a change in building materials.
(b) A sloped or gabled roofline segment of at least 20 feet in width and no less than three feet vertical in
12 feet horizontal.
(c) A combination of subsections (1)(a) and (b) of this section.
(2) All roof equipment shall be screened from public view. Mechanical equipment should be located
below the highest vertical element.
20.38.617 TRMT – Windows and awnings.
(1) Large, continuous expanses of glass shall provide detailing such as subdivisions by mullions, panes, or
decorative millwork.
(2) Horizontal repetition of single windows over long distances is to be avoided.
(3) The use of bay, bow and box windows is encouraged.
(4) Tinted glass may be used to reduce solar gain; however, deeply tinted glass which stops interior
views is to be avoided. Mirrored glass or highly reflective glass is prohibited. Electro‐chromatic windows
are permitted.
(5) Window frames may be constructed of materials including steel, anodized aluminum, wood, wood
and metal and vinyl‐covered wood; silver, gold and other bright‐colored frames should be avoided in
favor of natural colors.
(6) Window awnings along a row of contiguous buildings shall be restricted to the same form and color.
Awnings shall maintain an eight‐foot minimum vertical clearance. Plexiglas and glossy vinyl illuminated
awnings are prohibited. Canvas, treated canvas, matte finish vinyl, and fabric awnings are encouraged.
20.38.618 TRMT – Building design.
(1) Multiple‐tenant office buildings shall be clustered and designed with common materials, colors and
styles across their entire facades so as to create cohesive building designs. However, they can be
characterized by variation in the application of said materials and colors and also in fenestration details.
For example, siding materials or colors may be alternated between building sections; provided, that no
single section be of a material or color that is not found on other portions or elements of the facade
design. Accent siding materials and prominent siding materials may also be reversed to create interest.
Tenant‐specific motifs are prohibited if they do not reflect the style, colors and materials that
characterize the overall facade design. For purposes of this section, a single building is defined as any
structure that is not completely separated from another structure by at least a 10‐foot distance.
(2) Common materials, colors and styles are encouraged for multiple buildings on a single site; however,
each building shall be unique in terms of its general massing design and fenestration design. Variety in
design may be achieved by variation in each building’s footprint, rooflines, facade modulation, and
window arrangement. Color and materials may also be varied.
(3) Buildings greater than 40,000 square feet in area shall use one or more of the following elements in
an effort to reduce the appearance of excess bulk in large buildings:
(a) Variety in surface planes of exterior walls in depth or direction;
(b) Variety of the height of the building so it appears to be divided into separate distinct sections;
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(c) Articulation in different parts of the building’s facade by use of color, change in materials, and
arrangement of elements;
(d) Use of landscape and pavement materials at ground level to encourage the transition from building
to parking areas;
(e) Use of building trellises, wall articulation, change in materials, arcades, or other features.
(4) To enhance the pedestrian scale of any new development or redevelopment, buildings must:
(a) Provide project‐appropriate details including window patterns, structural bays, roof overhangs,
siding, awnings, moldings, fixtures, and other details.
(b) Include pedestrian connections between new and existing pedestrian areas (i.e., plazas, courtyards,
street sidewalks) and new and existing buildings.
(c) Create transitions in bulk and scale between large buildings and adjacent smaller buildings through
the use of appropriately scaled landscaping, fencing, art or other structures.
(d) Provide overhead weather protection and interior lot pedestrian oriented lighting.
(e) Public sidewalks shall be separated from the public roadway through use of landscape planting strips,
parking bulb‐outs and street furnishings where appropriate.
(f) Pedestrian walkways internal to the site shall be a minimum of six feet in width.
(g) At least one building entrance shall face each public street frontage on a corner lot but in any event,
no building shall be required to have more than two front entrances. A corner entrance shall count as
two entrances when it faces two public street frontages. Directly linking pedestrian access shall be
provided between the street right‐of‐way and each building entrance.
20.38.619 TRMT – Siding materials.
Acceptable siding materials include brick, stone, split‐face cement block, shingles, and horizontal lap
siding. Other materials may also be used if:
(1) They are used as accent materials in conjunction with acceptable siding materials; or
(2) Singular materials are characterized by details or variations in the finish that create a regular pattern
of shapes, indentations, or spaces that are accented or highlighted with contrasting shades of color.
20.38.620 TRMT – Landscape standards.
The general landscape standards set forth in Subtitle VI shall apply unless a more restrictive provision is
set forth in the TRMT specific landscape standards set forth in Chapter 20.128.230 POMC through
20.138.239.
20.38.627 TRMT – Utilities.
Underground utilities shall be installed for all new development.
20.38.628 TRMT – Parking and circulation standards.
The general parking standards set forth in Subtitle VI shall apply unless a more restrictive provision is set
forth in the TRMT specific parking standards set forth in POMC **.
20.38.633 TRMT – Signs.
All permanent freestanding signs within the Tremont Street corridor overlay district shall be of
monument type. Pole signs are prohibited. All other applicable conditions of Chapter ** POMC shall
govern the placement of signs within the TRMT.
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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.
20.100.040 Site plan elements.
20.100.050 Streetscape elements.
20.100.060 Commercial and mixed‐use design guidelines.
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.
(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
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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.
(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.
20.100.040 Site plan elements.
(1) Grading and Storm Drainage.
(a) Structures, roadways, and other site improvements should be designed to blend with the natural
topography with the minimum amount of site disturbance and grade changes. Large cuts and fills
requiring tall or long retaining walls or rockeries may be allowed at the City’s discretion.
(b) Major drainage corridors and detention facilities should be graded and landscaped to blend with the
natural landscape in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 15.32 POMC. Where possible,
stormwater facilities should be incorporated into the site’s design as aesthetic amenities, enhanced
portions of walkway or trail corridors, and/or special visual accents.
(c) Where retention/detention ponds are highly visible or used as a design feature, water levels within
the pond should be maintained during the dry season for visual accent purposes.
(2) Landforms and View Sheds.
(a) Buildings should be fit into the existing topography to appear to be an integral part of the natural
landform. On sloping sites, buildings should be stepped into the slope to reflect the sloping grade.
(b) Buildings should be placed to preserve and frame views of natural features including the waterfront
and mountain ranges, and significant townscapes including the downtown and significant architectural
landmarks from other properties within the surrounding view shed.
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(3) Parking Lots and Areas.
(a) Parking areas or lots should be located along the side, rear or in courtyard configurations to retain a
building frontage along road corridors and control the scale of the streetscape.
(b) Parking lot aisles should be aligned perpendicular to commercial, retail, and office building entries to
provide protected walking spaces and visual focus on building entrances.
(c) Where feasible, parking lots should be varied in grade, bermed, and/or differentiated with planting
materials to reduce the visible extent of paved surfaces and to manage stormwater.
(d) Parking structures should be integrated into surrounding buildings or streetscapes using facades,
artworks, landscaping, or other means that visually filter the view of parked cars from pedestrian
walkways and trails, adjacent building occupants, and the commercial roadway.
(e) Downtown streets will be reserved for short‐term, customer oriented parking spaces, particularly
during off‐peak traffic hours and prime retail hours and events. Where possible and practical, loading
activities should be accomplished from a side street or back property location to reserve through access
streets for customer parking use.
20.100.050 Streetscape elements.
(1) Walkways and Trails.
(a) Buildings should front onto walkways or trails to be developed within each district in accordance with
the nonmotorized transportation element of the comprehensive plan.
(b) The walkways or trails should be incorporated into the site development as the principal, publicly
accessible pedestrian space and design focus of the development and between the development and
adjacent properties and surrounding residential neighborhoods.
(c) The walkways or trails should integrally connect each development, particularly retail and
commercial projects, with adjacent properties and residential neighborhoods.
(d) The walkways or trails should extend through parking lots and parking areas in separated medians or
other placements that protect pedestrians from vehicular traffic.
(2) Walkway and Trail Corridor Zones. A minimum width of five feet of any walkway or trail corridor will
be clear of any temporary furnishings in order to accommodate pedestrians. The periphery sections of
the corridors, which may be combined on one side, may be used to display advertising signage, flower
pots or other moveable plantings, and/or outdoor seating areas on a temporary, special event basis.
(3) Building Entry and Access.
(a) Building entry and access shall be provided within the private property beyond the public walkway or
trail corridor.
(b) Vestibules and other recessed areaways should be used to define and provide pedestrian access
apart from the public walkway space. Vestibules and recessed areaways should visually alert pedestrians
within the public walkway or trail corridor and be sufficiently attractive to invite visual interest.
(4) Outdoor Activities.
(a) As an amenity, ground floor outdoor spaces such as plazas, squares, eating, seating areas, and/or
retail alcoves and inner courtyard spaces or greens should be provided as integral parts of the
development.
(b) The ground floor outdoor spaces should adjoin and be accessible from, and may occasionally be
permitted to spill over into, the public walkway or trail corridor space – but may not include permanent
improvements or uses of the public walkway or trail corridor space.
(5) Streetscape Furnishings.
(a) Improvements to the public walkway or trail corridor spaces may utilize the public streetscape
furnishings palette selected for the corridor.
(b) Improvements to the adjoining private spaces should incorporate or continue the materials, colors,
and/or styles of the public furnishings palette in order to provide design continuity.
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(c) Where appropriate, project developments should provide pedestrian scaled lighting fixtures to
illuminate walkways, trails, parking areas, and other people spaces. Lighting shields should direct
illumination onto pedestrian spaces and away from adjacent properties or uses. Freestanding fixtures
should not exceed 14 feet in height.
(6) Public Artworks.
(a) Building and property developments should incorporate outdoor artwork.
(b) Artwork may be permanently incorporated into functional areas that are accessible to the public
including parking lots, accessory buildings and structures, as well as building entries.
(c) Where the building or site is of historical or cultural interest, interpretive signage and other exhibits
or monuments should be incorporated into building or site improvements that are physically and
visually accessible to the public.
20.100.060 Commercial and Mixed‐Use Design Guidelines.
(1) Building Frontages.
(a) Buildings that face onto commercial parking streets and/or public walkway and trail corridors should
be built to front onto the pedestrian space or activity area to create continuous frontages of interest to
the corridor.
(b) Buildings may abut or share common sidewalls subject to International Building Code (IBC), fire code
and emergency access requirements.
(2) Building Heights. Building elevations facing public areas should incorporate offsets, modulations, and
additional setbacks above the second story to reduce massing at the pedestrian scale. The purpose of
this is to prevent imposing or tunnel‐like effects and to visually break up long, continuous facades. It also
encourages more aesthetically pleasing architecture.
(3) Modulation and Articulation.
(a) Building elevations should be horizontally modulated in no larger than 40‐ to 60‐foot increments to
create architectural relief and interest.
(b) Vestibules, entries, and other architectural adaptations should provide further visual definition and
reduce the mass of larger commercial and industrial structures.
(4) Building Entries.
(a) Building entrances should be visually defined from access walkways, fronting streets, and parking
areas. Building designs may use columns, arches, porches, recesses, or other concepts to create
architectural focus and interest.
(b) The principal building entrance should be accessed from major walkways or trail corridors or other
pedestrian ways, or otherwise address the street, opposed to the building’s parking lots and access
roads.
(5) Ground Floor Activities – Mixed Use Developments.
(a) First or ground floors should be devoted to retail, commercial or a similar public use with pedestrian
appeal where the building fronts onto a commercial street or the public pedestrian walkway or trail
corridor. Activities that serve the elderly or handicapped may be located or accessed from the ground
floor or street level of proposed developments.
(b) Upper floors may be commercial or office where the building has a double frontage, but should be
residential where the building is not publicly accessible.
(c) The first or ground floor should be at least 12 feet and preferably 14 feet in height where the ground
floor use is retail or commercial, and the building fronts onto a commercial street or the public
pedestrian walkway or trail corridors.
(d) Upper floors may be 10, 12 or 14 feet in height depending on occupant uses and exterior
appearances.
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(6) Upper Floor Balconies, Alcoves, Decks. Upper floors should incorporate balconies, alcoves, decks or
other outdoor spaces to provide an amenity and increase visual definition to the building – particularly
of the building frontages that face onto commercial streets and the public pedestrian walkway or trail
corridors.
(7) Awnings and Canopies.
(a) As an amenity, commercial or retail developments may provide permanent or retractable awnings,
overhangs, arcades or skylights sheltering pedestrians and shoppers from the elements where the public
walkway or trail corridor traverses through the site.
(b) The design of awnings and canopies should provide natural lighting and openness and continuous
protection from the elements but not overly obscure or shadow the walkway or trail corridor.
(c) Awnings or canopies should be hung above the display window space at least 10 to 14 feet above the
public walkway with a minimum eight‐foot vertical clearance.
(d) Structural supports for awnings or canopies will be provided from the building or adjacent private
property. Such awnings or canopies may be supported by posts or columns within the public walkway or
trail corridor with variance approval.
(8) Display Windows.
(a) Ground floor retail and commercial spaces along the public walkway or trail corridors should provide
display window space to showcase commercial, retail or other public uses and wares in a storefront
style typical of main street or marketplace architecture. Window space coverings should be translucent
materials to provide pedestrians views into ground floor spaces and activities.
(b) The corners of buildings that are located at the intersections on commercial streets and principal
public walkway or trail corridors should provide some form of visual interest such as window displays,
artwork or signage.
(9) Accessory Buildings. Independent parking structures, storage buildings or other accessory enclosures
should be designed to complement the principal, adjacent buildings in form, detail, color, and material.
Generally, accessory buildings and structures should be designed with similar or complementary roof
slopes and building materials as the primary structure.
(10) Rooftop Equipment. Roof‐mounted mechanical equipment and other accessories that are not to be
accessed or viewed from adjacent properties or public corridors should be screened and integrated into
the building structure and shell.
(11) Solar Orientations. Building designs, particularly within new developments, should be located to
maximize the use of passive solar potentials. Where possible, major window areas and outdoor activities
should be oriented along the south‐facing facades and yards.
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City of Port Orchard
Work Study Session Executive Summary
Issue Title: Paving Project Planning with the Pavement Management System
Meeting Date: February 20, 2018
Time Required: 20 Minutes
Attendees: None:
Action Requested At This Meeting: In 2016, a Pavement Management System (PMS)
Report and an ADA Transition Plan was developed to assist the staff in prioritizing projects
in the future. Staff is requesting direction on immediate and future projects.
Issue: There are a significant number of surface improvements needed within t he City of
Port Orchard. Resources for projects are limited with the Tremont Project starting in 2017.
Staff has used the PMS report, the ADA plan, the 2016 Tranportation Improvement Plan
(TIP), and the 2017-2018 budget to select the restoration of Horstman Road. Staff has
been notified by the Washington State DOT that they are making improvements to SR-166
from Bay Street the eastern city limits in 2019. They have estimated an investment from
the City of up to $100,000 for replacement of curb ramps to comply with ADA
requirements.
Background: The City of Port Orchard is required by the State of Washington to maintain
a street and sidewalk inventory. Additionally, whether for local decision makers or for
State Grant purposes, having a robust pavement conditions assessment is necessary.
Recommendation: Staff recommends a paving rehabilitation project on Horstman. The
2019-2020 biennial budget may require funding for the ramp improvements.
Relationship to Comprehensive Plan: Chapter 8 of the Comprehensive Plan covers
Transportation. It includes details of the PMS, ADA Transition Plan and the TIP.
Follow-up Notes & Outcomes:
Attachments:
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Page 164 of 198
City of Port Orchard
Work Study Session Executive Summary
Issue Title: Engineering Technician II Position
Meeting Date: February 20, 2018
Time Required: 10 Minutes
Attendees: None
Action Requested At This Meeting: Staff is requesting permission to immediately advertise
for a new Public Works Department – Engineering Technician II position to assist primarily in
private residential/commercial development review and permitting, and to also assist as‐
needed in the inspections associated with the private development and to provide internal
design and/or CAD work as needed.
Issue: Given both the current and projected private development growth (residential and
commercial) and the number of Capital Improvement Projects either underway or planned,
the City of Port Orchard Public Works Department is not able to meet the demand without
additional staffing.
Background: The City’s Public Works Department consisits of 6.6 FTE at City Hall and 14 FTE
at the Public Works Shop. In the past 10‐years, the City’s population has nearly doubled.
Alternatives: Do not approve.
Recommendation: Approve the additional 1.0 FTE.
Relationship to Comprehensive Plan: N/A.
Attachments: Job Description.
Follow‐up Notes & Outcomes:
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JOB DESCRIPTION: ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN II Revised
2/5/2018 PAGE 1 OF 5
CITY OF PORT ORCHARD
JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Engineering Technician II
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Civil Service: Exempt
Department: Public Works Department
Reports To: Assistant City Engineer
The Engineering Technician II shall report to the Assistant City Engineer and serve under the
direction of the Director of Public Works/City Engineer and the Assistant City Engineer. Attendance
at evening or weekend meetings or other off-duty events may be required. May also be called back
to work before or after regularly scheduled work hours or on scheduled days off.
Major Function and Purpose
The major function and purpose of the Engineering Technician II will be to assist the Assistant
City Engineer and the GIS Specialist/Inspector in 1) development plan review/permitting services
for private residential and commercial development activities, which consists of plan review and
permitting coordination with the City’s Permit Center staff, the general public,
developers/contractors and associated engineering professionals, 2) construction inspection of
road, storm, sewer water and associated improvements as part of private development projects
as needed and 3) preparation of AutoCAD maps, details and design drawings.
General Function
This is a responsible, professional and administrative position providing assistance to the Assistant
City Engineer and the GIS Specialist/Inspector in their activities in the Public Works Department.
Supervision Responsibilities None
Job Duties & Responsibilities
Under direction of the Assistant City Engineer, the Engineering Technician II will conduct reviews
of engineering plans and building permits for subdivisions and private commercial development
projects and make an informed recommendation for approval; and investigate and respond to
questions and inquiries from the general public, developers, contractors, engineering
professionals, the local fire protection district and City staff regarding complaints. This person
also inspects private development construction projects, in all stages of construction,
improvement, alteration and repair; reviews plans, specifications and technical drawings, and
verifies compliance to codes, regulations, ordinances, specifications and standards; and may
perform contract administration duties on public works construction contracts.
Page 167 of 198
JOB DESCRIPTION: ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN II Revised
2/5/2018 PAGE 2 OF 5
REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES
The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties
and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address
business needs and changing business practices.
• Review of engineering plans and building permits for subdivisions and private commercial
development projects; attends pre-application and pre-construction meetings between
various City staff and developers to discuss the proposed project and communicate Public
Works’ development requirements.
• Conducts private development reviews within the City; reviews pre-application submittals;
ensures compliance with City design standards, state regulations, and municipal codes;
recommends plan approval to Assistant City Engineer/Stormwater Manager.
• Reviews and approves Right-of-Way Permits for both City and Non-City projects.
• Conducts inspections for private development permitted projects within the City to ensure
installation meets approved plans, specifications, and regulations.
• Prepares basic drafts of plans, specification and cost estimates for City utility and street
construction projects from conceptual design through construction.
• Independently performs basic CAD drafting to assist with development, design, and
construction of public work projects and other related drafting tasks.
• Responds to questions and inquiries from the general public, developers, contractors,
engineering professionals, and City staff regarding engineering and development projects.
• Assists the Public Works Director/City Engineer, Assistant City Engineer and the GIS
Specialist/Inspector in coordinating the activities of the division.
• Performs related duties as required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of:
• Basic civil engineering principals, practices and mathematics, Basic hydrological and
hydraulic principals.
• Basic elements and procedure related to roadway and drain system construction,
operation and maintenance. Interpreting plans specifications, drafting terminology and
symbols, ordinances, regulatory documents, standards, maintenance manuals and
construction manuals and application of these resources and regulations to work
assignments.
• Methods, materials, and techniques used in civil engineering projects including those used
in the design and construction of development projects
• Methods and techniques of engineering plan review and analysis.
• Methods and techniques of conducting site and field investigations.
• Engineering maps and records.
• Trouble shooting and problem solving.
• Use of reference manuals and other documentation.
• Effective oral and written communication principles and practices.
• Office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software
applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, databases, AutoCAD, GIS and other
specialized engineering software programs.
• Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations affecting civil engineering
projects.
Ability to:
• Gather and assimilate information from a broad range of resources.
Page 168 of 198
JOB DESCRIPTION: ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN II Revised
2/5/2018 PAGE 3 OF 5
• Effectively coordinate, manage, and track multiple project activities on several
projects concurrently.
• Review, interpret, and analyze engineering plans, drawings, specifications, contract
documents, and engineering reports for conformance to professional standards and local,
state, and federal policies.
• Reading, understanding and applying information from technical manuals and procedures.
• Interpret and explain engineering projects to the business community and the general
public.
• Understand, interpret, explain, and apply applicable federal, state, and local policies, laws,
and regulations.
• Perform technician level computations in engineering.
• Conduct site inspections and monitor project progress.
• Communicate effectively with business owners, City Staff, consultants, and the general
public tactfully and courteously in person and on the telephone.
• Provide technical assistance to other division, department and City staff regarding
assigned engineering issues and problems.
• Operate office equipment including computers and applicable software applications such
as word processing, spreadsheets, databases and specialized engineering software
programs.
• Ability to perform field work in less-than-ideal weather conditions or settings while utilizing
safe work practices.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course
of work.
• Maintain regular, reliable and punctual attendance.
• Prepare/plot AutoCAD drawings under the supervision of the Assistant City Engineer.
Working Conditions
The Engineering Technician II may work either indoors or outdoors as required. The employee must
be capable of working in confined spaces, on ladders, inclines and/or in noisy work areas. He/she
may be exposed to extremes in temperature, chemicals or noxious fumes, and to insect stings. The
Engineering Technician II may be required to walk in, or around construction sites to perform the
essential functions of the position.
Exposure to hazards is commonplace. Among the hazards encountered are dampness, direct
sunlight, communicable disease, dust, pollen, epoxy chemicals, machinery or its moving parts,
cleaning fluids, chemicals, pesticides, insecticides, paints, cleaning agents or similar solutions, insect
stings, liquid chemicals, noisy work area, noxious odors, fumes or chemicals, and smoke. Hazardous
areas may be encountered, including open ditches, vaults, manholes, heavy machinery, hazardous
gases, excessive noise, and vehicle traffic.
Protective clothing may be required in the performance of some job duties.
Page 169 of 198
JOB DESCRIPTION: ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN II Revised
2/5/2018 PAGE 4 OF 5
Contacts and Relationships
The Engineering Technician II may have frequent contact with City elected officials, state, county
and municipal government officials, and outside consultants, auditors and other business-related
individuals or agencies. In the normal course of business, the Engineering Technician II will have
contact with other Public Works employees, contractors, other city personnel and the public. These
contacts involve a wide variety and range of purpose, including the need to provide or collect
information, coordinate projects or activities and to solve or negotiate solutions to problems.
Communication may be either by telephone, in person or through written message.
Physical Requirements
The Engineering Technician II must have the overall stamina and ability to perform moderate to
strenuous physical activity, including the ability to stand or walk for extended periods of time,
traversing rough terrain, working in or over water, working at heights or on scaffolding, and lifting
or carrying up to 50 pounds. Job requirement may include the ability to climb up to 20 feet off the
ground; bend and/or work in tight or confined areas. The incumbent must be able to hear alarms
and have the ability to audibly identify the presence of a danger or hazard. Must have the ability to
sit at a desk and operate a computer for extended periods of time as necessary to complete work
responsibilities.
Desired Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience:
• Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology, Environmental Science,
Construction Managements or Two years of progressively responsible technical engineering
experience in roadway, storm drainage and/or underground utilities construction required;
or any equivalent combination of experience and education that provides the applicant with
the desired skill, knowledge and ability to perform the work.
Special Requirements:
• Possession of or the ability to obtain within one (1) month, a valid Washington State Driver’s
License.
• 3 years preferred experience with Civil Engineering related activities
• 3 years preferred experience with plan review
• 3 years preferred experience with inspection services
• 3 years preferred experience with AutoCAD
• Experience with application software including Word, EXCEL, and AutoCAD
• Hydrologic Computer Modeling preferable
• ESRI/Arc Online Experience preferable
• All city employees must successfully pass a pre-employment Drug Testing as prescribed by
the City's Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy
Requirements outlined in this job description may be subject to modification to reasonably
accommodate individuals with disabilities who are otherwise qualified for employment in this
position. However, some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or
significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.
This job description does not constitute an employment agreement
between the Employer and employee and is subject to change as the
needs of the Employer and requirements of the job change.
Page 170 of 198
JOB DESCRIPTION: ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN II Revised
2/5/2018 PAGE 5 OF 5
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City of Port Orchard
Work Study Session Executive Summary
Issue Title: GAAP to Cash Accounting
Meeting Date: February 20, 2018
Time Required: 20 minutes
Attendees: None
Action Requested At This Meeting: Provide any questions on the recommendation and set a
date to consider the resolution to change reporting standards.
Issue: GAAP accounting is a more complex and time consuming method of reporting with
little added value to the City. GAAP accounting takes significant resources to implement and
are increasing each year with additional staff training, auditing costs, additional
requirements, etc. GAAP reporting is not timely and not useful for budgeting
Background: RCW 43.09.200 requires the state auditor to formulate, prescribe, and install a
system of accounting and reporting for all local governments. The state auditor has
prescribed and authorized reporting requirements through the Budgeting, Accounting, and
Reporting System (BARS) manual for both GAAP basis and Cash basis methods of
accounting. Approximatley 80% of local governments report on a cash basis as prescribed in
the Washington State Auditor’s Budgeting, Accounting and Reporting System (BARS).
Cash basis reporting will simplify the annual reporting process, thereby significantly reducing
the staff time required for preparation of the annual financial report, resulting in a positive
budgetary impact. Cash basis will save on auduiting cost as well as allow for more efficient
use of staff time. Cash basis will provide more useful and timely information for monitoring
and budgeting. Cash basis financial reporting is simplier and easier to understand and use.
Alternatives: N/A
Recommendation: The Finance Department recommends converting to Cash basis of
accounting to increase efficiency of the City’s accounting system and the annual audit
process
Relationship to Comprehensive Plan: N/A
Attachments: Will be provided at meeting.
Follow‐up Notes & Outcomes:
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Page 174 of 198
City of Port Orchard
Work Study Session Executive Summary
Issue Title: PSRC Vision 2050 Scoping Notice
Meeting Date: February 20, 2018
Time Required: 20 Minutes
Attendees: Nicholas Bond
Action Requested At This Meeting: Discuss Draft Comments and Provide Direction to Staff
and/or Council Committee
Issue: The City has been asked by PSRC to provide comments on the update to Vision 2040
with the new regional plan to be called Vision 2050. A copy of the scoping notice published
by PSRC is attached. Comments on this scoping notice are due on March 19, 2018. It is very
important that the City think about how the region, county, and city should grow between
now and 2050. The population forecasts that were just released by PSRC calls for 1.8 million
additional people in the 4 county region by 2050! A large part of Vision 2050 will focus on
deciding where these people will live and work and how they will move throughout the
region. There are several alternatives for how this growth can be accommodated as a
region and we’ll want to discuss the pros and cons of each.
A draft outline has been created and attached which the council may or may not wish to use
as the basis of a comment letter from the City to PSRC. Council may want to discuss its
contents or may wish to take the discussion in a different direction.
Background: As you may recall from our comprehensive plan periodic update that was
completed in 2016, Vision 2040 was the first step in an 8 year planning cycle. Vision 2040
led to countywide planning policies that ultimately required the city to plan for 8,235 more
residents and 3,132 more jobs by 2036. The contents of Vision 2050 will greatly influence
our next comprehensive plan update in 2024 and will very likely result in new population
and employment targets, in addition to those previously allocated, which we will have to
plan for through zoning and infrastructure policies.
Vision 2040 can be viewed at: https://www.psrc.org/vision‐2040‐documents
Page 175 of 198
ES Vision 2050
Page 2 of 2
Alternatives: The purpose of the scoping notice is to begin identifying alternatives to be
considered as part of the SEPA review process that will lead to Vision 2050. The alternatives
will be evaluated to inform the policy makers at PSRC. One of the alternatives could be
selected, or elements of each alternative could be combined into a preferred alternative. At
this time, there are an endless number of alternatives that could be considered and the
scoping notice will help to narrow down the number of alternatives to a few. The default
option would be the no action alternative whereby we continue on the Vision 2040 path.
Recommendation: Council should discuss Vision 2040 and determine if and how a comment
letter from the city should be developed. Perhaps the land use committee can work with
staff on a letter that will be brought back to Council on March 13th. Alternatively, Council
may want to take a more active role in the development of a letter at its February 27 and
March 13 meetings. The City will certainly be affected by Vision 2050, so staff would
strongly recommend that the Council review Vision 2040 and prepare comments on this
scoping notice.
Relationship to Comprehensive Plan: Vision 2050 will lead to regional policies that the City
will be required to comply with in its 2024 Comprehensive Plan update.
Attachments: PSRC Vision 2050 Scoping Notice, Draft Comment Outline
Follow‐up Notes & Outcomes: Continue drafting a letter on behalf of the City, submit a
letter by the March 19th deadline.
Page 176 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan
AND SEPA Scoping Notice
February 2018
Page 177 of 198
PSRC is extending the region’s growth plan to 2050.
VISION 2050 will build on the region’s existing plan, VISION 2040,
to keep the central Puget Sound region healthy and vibrant as it grows.
As the region prepares to add more people and jobs in the coming
decades — about 1.8 million more people by 2050 — VISION 2050 will
identify the challenges we should tackle together as a region and renew
the vision for the next 30 years.
Page 178 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice 1
Ways to Get Involved
• Submit comments or questions
about VISION 2050 scoping to
VISION2050@psrc.org
• Attend listening sessions to be
held in each county (dates and
locations on page 11)
• Learn more about VISION 2050
and sign up for updates from
PSRC at www.psrc.org/vision
6,000,000
5,000,000
4,500,000
4,000,000
3,500,000
3,000,000
2,500,000
2,000,000
1,500,000
1,000,000
2000 2010 2020 2030 2040 2050
3.4 million jobs
5.8 million people
FORECAST (Draft)
Population and Employment Growth in the Central Puget Sound Region
PSRC’s draft forecast shows 1.8 million more residents and 1.2 million more jobs in the region by 2050.
Sources: U.S. Census, Office of Financial Management, Employment Security Department, PSRC
VISION 2040 helps to coordinate the local growth and transportation plans developed
by cities and counties to make sure they are consistent with the Growth Management
Act and regional transportation plans.
The Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) is the planning agency for the central Puget
Sound region, which includes King, Pierce, Snohomish and Kitsap counties. PSRC has
specific responsibilities under federal and state law for transportation planning and
funding, economic development, and growth management.
PSRC is updating VISION to consider new information and perspectives about a chang-
ing region. PSRC is seeking community input to shape the plan. What important regional
issues should we focus on during the update?
How should the region’s growth strategy be up-
dated to plan for 2050? As we consider different
ways to grow as a region, what impacts and actions
should be evaluated through environmental review?
Over the next two years, PSRC will work with cit-
ies, counties, tribes, other agencies and interest
groups, and the public to develop VISION 2050.
PSRC will engage the public through surveys,
workshops held throughout the region, formal
comment periods, and input to PSRC’s elected
board members.
Page 179 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice2
Planning as a REGION
Since 2010, the region has experienced significant growth with about 375,000 new neighbors
calling the central Puget Sound home. Meanwhile, major infrastructure investments — like
completing the 520 bridge and extending light rail from Everett to Tacoma to Redmond — are
moving forward.
The region has had important successes implementing VISION 2040, which helps to fulfill
the goals of the state Growth Management Act (GMA). The plan has helped coordinate state
and regional initiatives and supported local decisions. Cities are thriving. Regionally, growth
is shifting towards more compact, sustainable development occurring within urban areas and
cities, with cost effective and efficient services, reduced impacts on the environment, and
positive health outcomes.
At the same time, the region continues to face significant challenges, including the climb-
ing cost of housing. Congestion from rapid growth is reducing access to jobs, services, and
housing. While recent economic growth has been strong, prosperity hasn’t benefited every-
one or all parts of the region. Finally, pressing environmental issues, such as climate change
and preserving open space, require more collaborative, long-term action. VISION 2050 is an
opportunity for cities and counties to work together to address the key challenges that extend
beyond the boundaries of any single community.
Page 180 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice 3
What is in VISION 2040?
VISION 2040 is the region’s current plan for managing growth forecasted through the year 2040.
The plan includes overarching goals, an environmental framework, a strategy to sustainably
guide growth in the region, and multicounty planning policies. The plan also includes actions
at the regional, county, and local level to make the plan a reality. VISION has six chapters ad-
dressing the environment, development patterns, housing, the economy, transportation, and
public services.
The plan includes goals and policies to:
• Protect and restore the natural environment
and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Plan for growth in cities and urban centers,
while reducing sprawl.
• Improve the balance of jobs and housing
across the counties.
• Create more vibrant and resilient urban
centers.
• Support health, well-being, and active living.
• Provide affordable housing choices to meet
the needs of all residents.
• Improve mobility for people and goods.
• Maintain and operate the transportation
system safely and efficiently.
• Encourage a strong, diverse economy.
• Provide services like solid waste, energy, and
water systems to support the region’s growth.
VISION 2040’s Regional Growth Strategy defines a role for different types of places in ac-
commodating the region’s residential and employment growth. The strategy is organized
around guiding most employment and housing growth to the region’s largest cities and urban
centers. Other cities and unincorporated urban areas are expected to play a more modest
role as locations for new growth. Outside the urban area, rural communities, farms and for-
ests will continue to be a permanent and vital part of the region.
Environmental review for VISION 2040 showed that, compared with a broad range of alter-
natives, the desired growth pattern would have significant benefits for mobility, air quality,
environmental stewardship, and healthy communities.
Page 181 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice4
VISION 2040 Regional Growth Strategy
VISION 2040 guides
most new growth to cities
and urban areas.
Source: VISION 2040
Page 182 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice 5
Where Growth is Happening
Growth has been
focused in the urban
area. In 2015, for
example, 96% of
new permitted
housing was in cities
and urban areas.
Source: PSRC Building Permit Data
290,000 jobs have
been added to the
region since 2000,
with strong growth
in employment
centers along the
I-5 corridor.
Source: PSRC Covered Employment Data
Page 183 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice6
SCOPING
and Environmental Impact Statement Process
Determination of Significance and Request for Comments
on Scope of Environmental Impact Statement
PSRC has proposed to update and revise the long-range growth, economic, and transpor-
tation strategy for King, Pierce, Snohomish and Kitsap counties. PSRC, as lead agency for
environmental review, has determined that the proposal to update VISION 2040 is likely to
have significant adverse impacts on the environment, and is therefore issuing a Determina-
tion of Significance (DS). This notice announces PSRC’s intent to prepare a supplemental
environmental impact statement (SEIS) on the proposed update to VISION 2040, pursuant
to RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c). The SEIS will contain new information and analysis, and may also
build on data and analysis contained in existing environmental documents, any of which may
be adopted or incorporated by reference as appropriate, according to State Environmental
Policy Act (SEPA) rules. The process will integrate SEPA and GMA to allow for consideration
of environmental information as well as public input, and to assist decision makers in meeting
the goals of GMA while identifying and mitigating probable significant adverse environmental
impacts under SEPA.
Under the SEPA process (WAC 197-11-408), PSRC is com-
pleting a scoping period to inform the environmental review
process for the VISION 2040 update. Pursuant to SEPA,
PSRC is notifying the public of the intent to prepare an SEIS
so that residents, jurisdictions, agencies, and tribes have an opportunity to comment on the
scope of the impacts to be analyzed. Affected members of the public, jurisdictions, agencies,
and tribes are invited, by this notice, to comment on alternatives, mitigation measures, prob-
able significant adverse impacts, and licenses or other approvals that may be required. The
method and opportunities for comment are provided on page 11.
The official comment period on the
scope of the SEIS will run through
Monday, March 19, 2018.
Page 184 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice 7
Input on Environmental Review
PSRC is seeking input on environmental issues for analysis.
Natural and built environment. PSRC has identified the
following environmental areas for potential discussion in
the SEIS:
• Land use and population; employment; housing; transportation; air quality; ecosystems;
water quality; public services and utilities; parks and recreation; environmental health;
energy; visual quality and aesthetic resources.
• The scoping process may be used to expand or narrow the environmental areas that need
updated analysis.
Additional issues that may be addressed. In addition to the areas listed above, PSRC
contemplates that environmental analysis may address the following subjects, which may be
modified in response to public comments and further analysis:
• Housing affordability; economic inequality; social equity and access to opportunity;
healthy communities; climate change adaptation and mitigation; demographic shifts or
changing needs; and funding for infrastructure and other improvements.
• Some issues may be addressed by existing information in the VISION 2040 Environmental
Impact Statement (EIS). Other issues may require new information or analysis.
Scoping Question:
What issues should be considered
for environmental review?
$450,000
$400,000
$350,000
$300,000
$250,000
$200,000
$150,000
$100,000
$50,000
$0
Increasing Median Housing Costs
Nationally, the region is at or near the top among peer regions in annual housing cost increases.
$1,800
$1,600
$1,400
$1,200
$1,000
$800
$600
$400
$200
$0
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
Rents
Home Prices
Sources: Dupre+Scott, Zillow
Page 185 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice8
Input on Assumptions, Themes, and Issues
PSRC is seeking input on key assumptions to inform the plan update. This SEIS will build on
the VISION 2040 EIS and include information analyzing the environmental impacts of updating
VISION 2040.
• Plan for 2050. A new regional forecast will show expected employment and population
through 2050. PSRC is planning for 1.8 million more people and 1.2 million jobs by 2050.
• Implement the Growth Management Act. VISION 2050 will continue to further the
Growth Management Act’s objectives of preventing sprawl; conserving farmlands, forests,
and open spaces; supporting more compact, people-oriented communities; focusing a
significant amount of new employment and housing into vibrant urban centers; and coordi-
nating between local governments.
• Use VISION 2040 as starting point. PSRC will build on VISION 2040’s current framework
— goals, policies, and Regional Growth Strategy — as the starting point for developing
VISION 2050.
• Focus on emerging and important issues. To efficiently use public resources and time, the
plan update will focus on a limited set of issues that may benefit from additional regional discus-
sion, coordination, and planning. Issues such as housing affordability, climate change, social
equity, and shared economic prosperity have been discussed as key regional challenges.
• Reflect the diversity of the region. The plan update will seek to reflect the demographic,
cultural, geographic, and economic diversity of the region.
• Review trends and actions. Key data trends will inform
the update, as well as progress towards implementing the
actions contained in VISION 2040. The update will identify
actions and roles to realize the goals of VISION 2050 and
outcome measures from which to measure progress.
• Integrate recent initiatives. The update will consider recent initiatives of PSRC and part-
ners, such as recent local comprehensive plan updates, the Growing Transit Communities
Strategy, Puget Sound Clean Air Agency climate change targets, the Puget Sound Part-
nership Action Agenda, and the Regional Centers Framework Update.
• Acknowledge and leverage major regional investments. Since VISION 2040 was adopt-
ed, voters have approved two Sound Transit ballot measures to expand high-capacity transit.
Other regional transit agencies have expanded service, local governments have built key proj-
ects, and the state adopted Connecting Washington to fund major transportation projects.
The update will address the impact of these investments on regional policies and strategies.
• Update the document. PSRC will review the existing plan for out-of-date information or
statutory changes since the 2008 adoption of VISION 2040. PSRC will also look for opportu-
nities to make VISION 2050 more accessible and usable.
Scoping Questions:
What regional issues should the
plan address? What information
should guide the update?
Page 186 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice 9
Planned Regional Transit System (2040)
Transit investments are planned
throughout the region to provide
more transportation options.
Source:
Regional Transportation Plan
Page 187 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice10
Input on framework for considering modifications to growth strategy.
One purpose of this scoping process is to gain information so that PSRC can craft a limited
range of alternatives for analysis within the Draft SEIS. The existing Regional Growth Strategy
will be considered in the context of recent and projected trends, adopted plans, infrastructure
investments, and broad goals for the region. The wide range of alternatives studied for the VI-
SION 2040 EIS provides a robust starting point for this process. Within the range of alternatives
previously studied, several options may be available to modify the existing Regional Growth
Strategy to more effectively achieve the region’s sustainability goals. The alternatives that will
be developed will use the same assumptions and forecasts for growth through the year 2050.
• No Action Alternative. A “no action” alternative must be evaluated in accordance with
SEPA. In this proposal, the no-action alternative will be defined as continuing forward with
the adopted growth patterns in VISION 2040, to essentially “stay the course.” The existing
Regional Growth Strategy would be extended to reflect forecasts for 2050 without amend-
ment or revision to growth shares or regional geographies.
• 2050 Modified Regional Growth Strategy Alternative(s).
A modified 2050 growth strategy(ies) may be defined and
evaluated with modified regional geographies, adjusted
growth allocations among counties and regional geographies,
and/or actions to promote the desired pattern of future popu-
lation and jobs.
Scoping Question:
How should the region’s
growth strategy be updated
to plan for 2050?
Page 188 of 198
VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice 11
Preview PROCESS
Schedule and Anticipated Milestones in SEPA Process
PSRC anticipates that a Draft SEIS will be completed in summer 2019 and a Final SEIS will be
issued in spring 2020.
Engagement Opportunities
There will be many opportunities to provide input throughout the planning process, including
PSRC meetings, workshops, surveys, online open houses, and opportunities to comment on
the draft plan and environmental review document.
PSRC is accepting comments on the VISION 2050 scoping from Friday, February 2, 2018,
through Monday, March 19, 2018. We want to hear from you! What issues should be con-
sidered for environmental review? What regional issues should the plan address? What
information should guide the update? How should the region’s growth strategy be updated
to plan for 2050?
There Are Several Ways to Comment:
SEPA Responsible Official: Erika Harris, AICP, Senior Planner
E-mail: VISION2050@psrc.org
U.S. Mail: ATTN: VISION 2050 Comment, 1011 Western Avenue, Suite 500, Seattle, WA 98104
In Person: March 1, 2018 / Growth Management Policy Board meeting / 10 am
Fax: ATTN: VISION 2050 Comment, 206-587-4825
Visit the website: https://www.psrc.org/vision
Listening Sessions:
King County / February 13 / 3-5 pm .......................Union Station, Ruth Fisher Board Room
401 South Jackson Street, Seattle 98104
Pierce County / February 20 / 3-5 pm ....................Fife Community Center
2111 54 th Avenue East, Fife 98242
Snohomish County / February 22 / 3-5 pm .............Lynnwood City Hall
19100 44th Avenue West, Lynnwood 98036
Kitsap County / February 27 / 3-5 pm ....................Norm Dicks Government Center
345 6th Street, Bremerton 98337
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VISION 2050 Plan and SEPA Scoping Notice12
What is PSRC?
The Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) is the regional transportation, economic develop-
ment, and growth planning agency for the central Puget Sound — King, Pierce, Snohomish
and Kitsap counties. It serves as a forum for cities, counties, ports, transit agencies, tribes,
and the state to work together on important regional issues.
Key responsibilities include:
• Long range growth, economic, and transportation planning
• Transportation funding
• Economic development coordination
• Regional data
• Technical assistance
The elected leaders of King, Pierce, Snohomish and Kitsap counties, the region’s cities and
towns, port districts, transit agencies, and tribes direct PSRC’s work. Once a year, these elect-
ed officials meet as a General Assembly to vote on major decisions and elect new leadership.
Each month, an Executive Board makes decisions on behalf of the General Assembly with the
input of several advisory boards made up of local elected officials and representatives of busi-
ness, labor, environmental and community interests, as well as input from the public at large.
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Funding for this document provided in part by member jurisdictions, grants from U.S. Department of Transportation,
Federal Transit Administration, Federal Highway Administration and Washington State Department of Transportation.
PSRC fully complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related statutes and regulations in all programs
and activities. For more information, or to obtain a Title VI Complaint Form, see https://www.psrc.org/title-vi or
call 206-587-4819.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Information:
Individuals requiring reasonable accommodations may request written materials in alternate formats, sign language
interpreters, physical accessibility accommodations, or other reasonable accommodations by contacting the ADA
Coordinator, Thu Le, at 206-464-6175, with two weeks’ advance notice. Persons who are deaf or hard of hearing may
contact the ADA Coordinator, Thu Le, through TTY Relay 711.
Additional copies of this document may be obtained by contacting: Puget Sound Regional Council
Information Center
1011 Western Avenue, Suite 500
Seattle, Washington 98104-1035
206-464-7532 • info@psrc.org • psrc.org
psrc.org
back cover image courtesy of:
Bryan Reinbold, Local 302 Union OperatorPage 191 of 198
Puget Sound Regional Council
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Outline of Vision 2050 Comments (Draft)
Vision 2040 Part One – Towards a Sustainable Environment
The City is very supportive of the existing focus on environmentally sustainable growth,
however, the existing plan is short on other important components of sustainability:
o Quadruple bottom line. Part One should be expanded to include balanced
discussion of all 4 legs of the sustainability “stool.” By emphasizing
environmental policy above the other 3 legs of the stool, the plan does not
balance all elements of a sustainable region.
Environmental – Sustainability (Seems to be the highest Priority) (Word
“Enviro” occurs 62 times in Part One)
Social – Equity (Mentioned, but seems far less important than
environment and economic concerns) (Word “Social” appears twice in
Part One)
Economic – Prosperity (Mentioned, but seems secondary to
environmental concerns) (Word “Econ” Appears 17 times in Part One)
Cultural – Vitality (Mentioned in intro, not discussed elsewhere in part
one) (Word “Culture” appears once in Part One)
o Fiscal Sustainability: The EIS should consider alternatives for ensuring fiscal
sustainability of local government. Cities and counties within the region should
grow in a more fiscally sustainable manner. Throughout the region there are
unincorporated urban areas under county control that are fiscally unsustainable
in terms of the costs of providing services and replacing infrastructure vs. the
revenue that is generated to local governments. Because of this fiscal
unsustainability, these areas have not been annexed. We should ensure that
these areas (and all areas) grow to be assets rather than liabilities.
Transportation funding from PSRC should support projects that won’t create long
term liabilities that aren’t supported by the revenue streams from existing or
planned development. Perhaps funds should be awarded only after verification
that the project area is fiscally sustainable over the long term, and/or that
legislative actions have been taken to make the area more fiscally sustainable.
As part of an application process, cities and counties should be asked to identify
barriers to growth in the vicinity of a candidate transportation project and take
action to remove those barriers prior to seeking funding.
o Under the Social – Equity category, Vision 2040 doesn’t discuss housing
affordability. There are many alternatives for ensuring affordability, however a
one-size fits all approach should be avoided. For instance, inclusionary zoning
may be appropriate in Seattle or Bellevue, but would likely be a barrier to
increasing housing supply in Port Orchard.
o There is very little mention of Native American tribes in Part One. The one
mention is not in a cultural context, but rather in regard to restoration work being
performed by tribes.
o The military and its regional significance is not mentioned in Part One.
Part Two – Regional Growth Strategy
In terms of the missions of city and county governments, our plans, roles and growth
strategies seem to say one thing but do another. Vision 2050 should clearly state that
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cities are the preferred entities for urban growth and that a county’s role is to support
expansion of cities, the annexation of urban areas, the incorporation of new cities.
County governance is also preferred for rural, resource, and agricultural management
and growth, and for coordination of multi-jurisdictional services such as health
departments. As it is now, counties are competing with cities for urban growth and the
one-time revenues that new growth provides. Counties should be doing more to
encourage annexations, joint city/county planning, and incorporations of stand-alone
urban growth areas. The local view of a county’s role varies greatly between counties
and frequently what is spoken or written in a plan is not the same as what is practiced.
Some counties more than others seem to be creating more fiscally sustainable urban
development that is ripe for annexation or incorporation.
Regional Geographies – Metropolitan Cities, Core Cities, Larger Cities, Small Cities,
Unincorporated UGA, Rural are the current Vision 2040 Geographies. Recent PSRC
reports show that we are missing our regional growth targets in some geographies.
Perhaps our 6 regional geographies don’t capture the diversity in cities and counties
throughout the region. Additional geographies may allow us to direct growth in a more
targeted way that maximizes the quadruple bottom line. One way to do this would be to
create sub-geographies within the existing 6 types.
o It could be beneficial to divide unincorporated UGAs into affiliated and unaffiliated
(those that function as a city i.e. Silverdale). Silverdale (and areas like
Silverdale) could be considered a large city within the regional framework since it
is a standalone UGA that can’t be annexed by another city.
o More growth could be directed to affiliated UGAs. This would possibly encourage
annexation either because existing residents may seek to have more local
control as provided within a city or because the counties would be forced to
invest in infrastructure in support of growth which would ultimately make the
areas more attractive to an adjacent city as a candidate for annexation.
o LAMIRDs (or functional equivalent) could be split from or become or a sub
category of the rural geography. Perhaps some growth in LAMIRDs be
encouraged as urban lands become more constrained.
o Perhaps we should create an island sub-geography. Bainbridge Island and
Mercer Island are unique from their small and large city counterparts. There are
unique infrastructure challenges facing islands. For instance, both have 2 ways
in and out vs. many roads in and out of most other cities. Additionally, there are
unique challenges related to providing water and sewer services on an island.
o Small Satellite Cities (i.e. Eatonville, Wilkeson, Gold Bar, Buckley) could be
treated differently than contiguous Small Cities (Edgewood, Milton, Normandy
Park). Small Satellite Cities are typically connected to the region by state
highways and by directing regional growth to these places, we could exacerbate
regional transportation problems. Many of small satellite cities are also located
outside of transit service areas. Directing more growth to contiguous small cities
may be more sustainable in the context of the quadruple bottom line.
o Small cities outside of transit service areas should be exempt from certain PSRC
planning policy requirements. It is not reasonable to require slow growing towns
of 400 people to complete technical planning documents with the same
frequency as rapidly growing cities.
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o Consideration should be given to the investment under ST3 in terms of those
jurisdictions how are being served by light rail expansion. Perhaps cities that are
being served by light rail should be a regional geography sub category under the
6 categories. These areas should be shouldering a larger share of the burden
when it comes to accommodating 1.8 million more people compared to the cities
that are not directly benefitting from that investment.
Consideration should be given to what happens after we as a region build out our
existing cities and unincorporated UGAs. At some point it will be unreasonable to expect
that reasonable measures to densify existing cities and UGAs will be sufficient for
accommodating future growth. We need to evaluate how to grow once this occurs.
Counties should begin evaluating long term (beyond 20 year) alternatives for growth.
Policies should require an evaluation in advance of future updates to Vision to identify
which lands would be most suitable for future growth based on utility capacity,
transportation capacity, and quadruple bottom line considerations. This way, a
predefined alternative will exist that can be evaluated in comparison to other alternative
growth strategies. There are several alternative growth strategies that should be
evaluated:
o Keep generally fixed urban growth boundaries. This may be the most
environmentally sustainable alternative but may not maximize social and cultural
considerations. In terms of economic sustainability, it is not clear whether this
alternative would be better or worse that expanding existing UGAs.
o Expansion of existing UGAs into rural areas. Cities (other than those that are
landlocked) like Port Orchard could expand UGA boundaries outward. This may
address social and cultural concerns, but at the expense of the environment. In
terms of economic sustainability, it is not clear whether this alternative would be
better or worse keeping fixed urban growth boundaries as described above.
o New compact high density (+/-100 Activity Units Per Acre planning requirement
(64000-120000 dwellings units/jobs that are no larger than 1-2 square miles)
sustainable satellite communities supported by high capacity transit. Building
new compact well-designed transit-oriented development communities
supporting a large population of people and jobs could maximize the quadruple
bottom line approach in conjunction with preserving fixed urban growth
boundaries. Counties could identify potential sites that are likely to be
successful, such as sites in proximity of an amenity such as a
tourism/recreational area or areas with access to existing rail corridors that are
underutilized. Perhaps new technology or transportation solutions could play a
role in the PSRC area becoming a global leader in that technology. Each county
could be asked to identify 1-2 locations where a new sustainable city could be
constructed.
o Convert rural LAMIRDs to UGAs/cities. Convert a place like Southworth or
Manchester to become a UGA/City. It is not clear whether this would be more or
less sustainable under the quadruple bottom line considerations compared to a
new city approach.
We need to decide whether cities ought to be reclassified as they grow (i.e. Port Orchard
changing from Small to Large City). The alternative would be to have the regional
geography classifications grow (i.e. a small city threshold going from <22,500 to
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<35,000). There may be benefits to letting the geography grow with the region in terms
of tracking progress towards meeting targets and implementing the growth strategy.
Parts Three and Four – Planning Policies and Implementation
The region continues to grow more in rural areas than is envisioned in Vision 2040. We
should more aggressively look to bend the trend. A major goal of Vision 2050 should be
to protect and preserve the rural areas in between UGAs, LAMIRDs (or functional
equivalents), and cities from development. The following graphs were provided by
PSRC and show how the regional growth strategy are being implement in Kitsap County
and the Region.
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Regional transportation concurrency policies could be used as a tool to
implement the regional growth strategy and bend the trend away from
rural development and towards centers.
As we plan for the future, rural growth allocations could be split into Rural
and LAMIRDs (or functional equivalent) or could remain as one regional
geography and see growth spread evenly across rural areas.
Concurrency: Throughout the region, cities and counties use different transportation
concurrency methods and standards. It may be beneficial to standardize these systems
in some way. Concurrency policies are required in GMA, but inconsistent implementation
can hugely interfere with achieving the regional growth strategy. If one jurisdiction has a
lax concurrency standard, they could be encouraging more growth than has been
allocated. Likewise, a city with too strict a standard could be preventing growth from
occurring in accordance with the regional growth strategy. As a region, we could allow
transit-oriented development areas to have a lesser concurrency LOS due to the
presence of an alternative transportation strategy. In rural areas, we could require a
higher level of service on road segments and at intersections to discourage growth that
is likely to exacerbate congestion. Uniform standards would also simplify
interjurisdictional mitigation of traffic impacts.
Kitsap County - Specific Items for Consideration
High Capacity Transit in Kitsap County
o Kitsap County needs to establish or explicitly state its policy not to establish long
term countywide goals for providing high capacity transit connections aside from
marine based transit and the existing bus network that utilizes existing roadways.
A Poulsbo to Bainbridge connection.
Connect the County to Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and Pierce County.
Transit to the Shipyard.
Connections between 4 KC cities.
o Additional consideration should be given to expanding the passenger ferry
network.
Silverdale to Seattle.
LAMIRDs to Seattle.
Intra-County marine connections.
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