HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-19-2025 Special Mtg. Agenda
Planning Commission
Special Meeting
February 19, 2025 - 7:00 PM
City Hall Council Chambers
AGENDA
CALL TO ORDER
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
A. The Special Planning Commission Meeting scheduled for February 19, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
will be held in person and virtually.
Virtual Participation Link:
To listen to the meeting by phone or join via Webinar, please call one of the numbers
below or click a link:
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ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
This is the place on the agenda where the public is invited to speak to the Board on any issue.
A. Comment from the audience on any proposal for action by the Commission. If the
comment is related to an action subsequently listed here as a public hearing, the comment
should be provided at the time of the public hearing.
The public can participate in-person or submit written comments in advance.
Participants can submit written comments via mail, fax, or email. All written comments
Page 1 of 109
must be received prior to 5:00 p.m. on the day before the scheduled meeting and must be
350 words or less.
Please mail written comments to:
City of Auburn
Attn: Tammy Gallier, Administrative Specialist
25 W Main St
Auburn, WA 98001
Please fax written comments to:
Attn: Tammy Gallier, Administrative Specialist
Fax number: 253-804-3114
Email written comments to: tgallier@auburnwa.gov
If an individual requires accommodation to allow for remote oral comment because of a
difficulty attending a meeting of the governing body, the City requests notice of the need for
accommodation by 5:00 p.m. on the day before the scheduled meeting. Participants can
request accommodation to be able to provide a remote oral comment by contacting the
Community Development Department in person, by phone (253) 931-3090 or by email
(tgallier@auburnwa.gov).
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. January 7, 2025 Draft Minutes from the Regular Planning Commission Meeting
OTHER BUSINESS
A. ZOA24-0005 Supportive Housing Types Text Amendment (Teague)
Staff is proposing to amend Sections 18.46A.070, 18.52.020, 18.31.130, 18.23.030, and
18.07.020 of the Auburn City Code to comply with new state requirements generally
related to supportive housing types.
B. ZOA24-0003 SEPA Code Update (Reed)
Staff is proposing to update the SEPA code (Chapter 16.06 ACC) to reflect the categorical
exemption threshold increases as stated in WAC 197-11-800(d), to use the optional
process consistent with WAC 197-11-335, and planned action project review consistent
with WAC 197-11-172.
ADJOURNMENT
The City of Auburn Planning Commission is a seven member advisory body that provides
recommendations to the Auburn City Council on the preparation of and amendments to land use
plans and related codes such as zoning. Planning Commissioners are appointed by the Mayor and
confirmed by the City Council.
Actions taken by the Planning Commission, other than approvals or amendments to the Planning
Commission Rules of Procedure, are not final decisions; they are in the form of recommendations to
the City Council which must ultimately make the final decision.
Page 2 of 109
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject: Meeting Date:
January 7, 2025 Draft Minutes from the Regular Planning Commission
Meeting
February 19, 2025
Department: Attachments: Budget Impact:
Community Development 1-7-2025 Planning Commission
Meeting Minutes
Administrative Recommendation:
Background for Motion:
Background Summary:
Councilmember: Staff: Jason Krum
Page 3 of 109
Planning Commission
Regular Meeting
January 7, 2025 - 7:00 PM
City Hall Council Chambers
MINUTES
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
The City of Auburn Planning Commission Meeting was held in person and virtually.
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Judi Roland called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of
Auburn City Hall, 25 West Main Street.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners present: Chair Judi Roland, Julie Berry, Kent Sprague, Aaron
Vanderpol, and Lynn Walters. Commissioner William Stewart was excused.
Staff members present: Planning Services Manager Alexandria Teague, Senior Staff
Attorney Taryn Jones, and Deputy City Clerk Rebecca Wood-Pollock.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Chair Roland led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS
There were no agenda modifications.
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
No public comments were received.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. December 3, 2024 Draft Minutes from the Regular Planning Commission
Meeting
Chair Roland noted that Vice Chair Stephens' name was incorrectly noted in
the minutes and moved to make that correction.
Commissioner Sprague moved and Commissioner Walters seconded to
approve the December 3, 2024 meeting minutes as amended.
MOTION CARRIES. 4-0. Chair Roland abstained from voting.
Page 4 of 109
OTHER BUSINESS
A. Planning Commission Chair and Vice Chair Selection for 2025
Commissioner Berry nominated Judi Roland as Planning Commission Chair.
Commissioner Vanderpol seconded the nomination.
MOTION CARRIES UNANIMOUSLY. 5-0
Commissioner Walters nominated Kent Sprague as Vice Chair. Commissioner
Vanderpol seconded the motion.
MOTION CARRIES UNANIMOUSLY. 5-0
B. Planning Commission Rules and Procedures (Teague)
Staff to present the amended Rules and Procedures for 2025
Manager Teague presented the Commission with the proposed changes to the
Planning Commission Rules of Procedure, including a new meeting time and
returning to a one meeting per month schedule.
Commission discussed the new proposed meeting time and meeting length,
2025 meeting dates, roles of the Chair and Vice Chair, excused absences,
quasi-judicial actions, agenda modifications, conflicts of interest, voting
abstention, tie votes, public hearings, public comment and conduct, conflict of
interest, and Commission conduct.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT REPORT
Manager Teague presented the Commission with an overview of upcoming topics
which will be brought before the Commission in future meetings, including a proposed
increase to the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) exemptions threshold,
temporary and permanent housing updates, battery storage systems, updates to the
Downtown Plan, school impact fees, and annual amendments. She also provided an
update on the Safe Auburn community meetings.
Commission discussed a bridge widening project over the White River, a driving range
at the Auburn Golf Course, the Auburn Ave Theater, and upcoming downtown
construction.
Chair Roland shared that the next meeting would be held on Tuesday, February 4,
2025.
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ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Planning Commission, the meeting
was adjourned at 8:17 p.m.
APPROVED this _______ day of _________, 2025
_____________________________ _______________________________
JUDI ROLAND, CHAIR Rebecca Wood-Pollock, Deputy City Clerk
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AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject: Meeting Date:
ZOA24-0005 Supportive Housing Types Text Amendment (Teague)
Staff is proposing to amend Sections 18.46A.070, 18.52.020, 18.31.130,
18.23.030, and 18.07.020 of the Auburn City Code to comply with new state
requirements generally related to supportive housing types.
February 19, 2025
Department: Attachments: Budget Impact:
Community Development ZOA24-0005 Supportive Housing
Types Text Amendments Memo,
ZOA24-0005 Text Amendment,
ZOA24-0005 Supportive Housing
Types PC Presentation
Current Budget: $0
Proposed Revision: $0
Revised Budget: $0
Administrative Recommendation:
If the Planning Commission believes that the changes are ready to proceed, Staff will move forward
with noticing and a public hearing.
Background for Motion:
N/A
Background Summary:
Staff is proposing to amend Chapter 18.04, Sections 18.07.020, 18.23.030, 18.25.020, 18.31.130,
18.31.160, 18.46A.070, 18.52.020 and create new Section 18.31.165 of the Auburn City Code to
comply with new Revised Code of Washington (RCW) requirements. The topics of these sections
cover a wide range of topics and are discussed below.
Councilmember: Staff: Jason Krum
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1
Memorandum
TO: Judi Roland, Chair, Planning Commission
Kent Sprague, Vice Chair Planning Commission
Planning Commission Members
FROM: Alexandria D. Teague, AICP, Planning Services Manager
Dept. of Community Development
DATE: January 22, 2025
RE: City File No. ZOA24-0005 – Supportive Housing Types Text Amendment
I. BACKGROUND & PURPOSE
Staff is proposing to amend Chapter 18.04, Sections 18.07.020, 18.23.030, 18.25.020, 18.31.130,
18.31.160, 18.46A.070, 18.52.020 and create new Section 18.31.165 of the Auburn City Code to
comply with new Revised Code of Washington (RCW) requirements. The topics of these sections cover
a wide range of topics and are discussed below.
II. SUMMARY OF CODE CHANGES
Chapter 18.04 ACC “Definitions.”
Definitions in Chapter 18.04 were either revised or added to address the new STEP (supportive,
temporary, emergency, and permanent) housing types supplemental standards and homeless
encampment standards.
Religious organization – new definition ACC 18.04.793
Transitional housing – new definition ACC 18.04.896.1
Homeless encampment – revised defintion18.04.465
Host agency – revied definition 18.04.485
Sponsoring agency – revised definition 18.04.828
ACC Section 18.07.020 “Uses.”
Permanent supportive housing – revise ACC Table 18.07.020 “Permitted Use Table – Residential
Zones”
The residential use table provided in ACC 18.07.020 was revised to include “Permanent Supportive
Housing” in any zones in which residential dwelling units allowed. This is required per RCW 35.21.683
(HB 1220). All the residential zones allow for residential dwelling units, therefore “Permanent
Supportive Housing” is proposed as a permitted use in all residential zones. The use is still subject to the
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standards contained in ACC 18.31.160.
ACC Section 18.23.030 “Uses.”
Permanent supportive housing – revise Table 18.23.030 “Permitted, Administrative, Conditional and
Prohibited Uses by Zone, Commercial and Industrial Zones”
The commercial and industrial use table provided in ACC 18.23.030 was revised to include “Permanent
Supportive Housing” in any zones in which hotels are allowed. This is required per RCW 35.21.683 (HB
1220). The C-1 and C-2 zone allow for “Lodging – Hotel or motel” as a permitted use. The M-1 and M-2
zone allow for “Lodging – Hotel or motel” as an administrative use. Staff proposes to allow “Permanent
Supportive Housing” as a permitted use in the C-1 and C-2 zone and as an administrative use in the M-1
and M-2 zones. The use is still subject to the standards contained in ACC 18.31.160.
Indoor emergency housing or shelter – revise Table 18.23.030 “Permitted, Administrative,
Conditional and Prohibited Uses by Zone, Commercial and Industrial Zones”
The commercial and industrial use table provided in ACC 18.23.030 was revised to include “Emergency
housing or shelter” in any zones in which hotels are allowed. This is required per RCW 35.21.683 (HB
1220). The C-1 and C-2 zone allow for “Lodging – Hotel or motel” as a permitted use. The M-1 and M-2
zone allow for “Lodging – Hotel or motel” as an administrative use. Staff proposes to allow “Emergency
housing or shelter” as a permitted use in the C-1 and C-2 zone and as an administrative use in the M-1
and M-2 zones. The use is still subject to the standards contained in ACC 18.31.160.
ACC Section 18.25.020 “Applicability.”
Middle housing – revise ACC 18.25.020(D) “Exceptions.”
Staff is proposing to remove provision (4) of ACC 18.25.020 “Middle Housing shall not be used to justify
alteration of a regulated critical area per Chapter 16.10 ACC.” This provision was written more narrowly
than the intent of the statue. The statue states that “any lots, parcels, and tracts designated with critical
areas or their buffers that are exempt from the density requirements as provided in subsection (8) of this
section” and “portions of a lot, parcel, or tract designated with critical areas designated under
RCW 36.70A.170 or their buffers as required by RCW 36.70A.170, except for critical aquifer recharge
areas where a single-family detached house is an allowed use provided that any requirements to
maintain aquifer recharge are met”.
All developments, including middle housing, are currently subject to the standards contained in Chapter
16.10 ACC. This section contains provisions regarding the protection and development of critical areas ,
including sequencing for the modification of critical areas. Therefore, staff believes that the Chapter
16.10 ACC sufficiently protects critical areas without provision (4) of ACC 18.25.020.
ACC 18.31.130 “Communal residence standards.”
Communal residence occupancy limits - revise ACC 18.31.130(D) “Occupancy Limits.”
Per RCW 35A.21.314 code city may not limit number of unrelated persons occupying a household or
dwelling unit. Except for occupant limits on group living arrangements regulated under state law or on
short-term rentals as defined in RCW 64.37.010 and any lawful limits on occupant load per square foot
or generally applicable health and safety provisions as established by applicable building code or city
ordinance, a code city may not regulate or limit the number of unrelated persons that may occupy a
household or dwelling unit. Staff proposes to remove the limit of four individual persons . The building
and fire code will prevail in determining the number of occupants.
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ACC 18.31.160 “Supportive housing development standards.”
Supportive housing development standards - revise ACC 18.31.160(A).
Per RCW 35.21.683 the city can impose reasonable occupancy, spacing, and intensity of use
requirements on permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, indoor emergency housing, and
indoor emergency shelters to protect public health and safety. However, any such requirements on
occupancy, spacing, and intensity of use may not prevent the siting of a sufficient number of permanent
supportive housing, transitional housing, indoor emergency housing, or indoor emergency shelters
necessary to accommodate each city's projected need for such housing and shelter.
Staff is proposing to revise ACC 18.31.160 to apply for all “transitional housing, permanent supportive
housing, indoor emergency shelters, and indoor emergency housing” to apply reasonable occupancy,
spacing, and intensity of use standards.
Per Housing Needs Assessment adopted under the recent periodic comprehensive plan update, the City
needs to accommodate 2,300 net new emergency housing units and 892 net new permanent supportive
housing units. As shown in Figure 34, the greatest need for housing by affordability level is in the
“extremely low” and “moderate” income levels. In addition to creating adequate capacity to
accommodate the new housing units by 2024, goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan were
evaluated and amended where appropriate to assist in creating these new units.
ACC Section 18.31.165 “Homeless Encampment Hosted by a Religious Organization”.
Homeless encampment hosted by a religious organization – new section ACC 18.31.165
The purpose of this new section is to comply with RCW 36.01.290 “Hosting the homeless by religious
organizations—When authorized—Requirements—Prohibitions on local actions.” The state has set
forth standards and limitations on local jurisdiction regulation of religious organization’s ability host the
homeless on property owned or controlled by the religious organization . Staff conferred with Building,
Fire, Legal, Code Compliance, Anti-Homeless, and various PW staff to craft standards that comply with
the RCW.
ACC Section 18.46A.070 “General and specific temporary use permits”.
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Specific Type II Temporary Use Permit – Homeless Encampment– removed section ACC
18.46A.070(F)
Staff is proposing to remove the homeless encampments, not hosted by a religious organization from
city code. Non-profits and other service organizations may work with religious organizations to provide
services and support at homeless encampments hosted by religious organization.
ACC Section 18.52.020 “Number of off-street parking spaces required.”
Minimum residential parking requirements – revise Table 18.52.020 “Off-Street Parking
Requirements by Land Use”
Per RCW 36.70A.620(2) for housing units specifically for seniors or people with disabilities, that are
located within one-quarter mile of a transit stop that receives transit service at least four times per hour
for twelve or more hours per day, a city may not impose minimum residential parking requirements for
the residents of such housing units. However, a city may establish parking requirements for staff and
visitors of such housing units. Also, a city may establish a requirement for the provision of one or more
parking space per bedroom if the jurisdiction has determined a particular housing unit to be in an area
with a lack of access to street parking capacity, physical space impediments, or other reasons
supported by evidence that would make on-street parking infeasible for the unit. Adult family homes and
assisted living facilities are the two uses in Table 18.52.020 that are specifically for seniors or people
with disabilities. Adult family homes currently require two spaces per dwelling unit. Staff believes this is
sufficient and no change is needed. Assisted living facilities currently require 0.53 per unit and if near
high-capacity transit then 1.1 stall per employee/visitor.
Per RCW 36.70A.620(3) market rate multifamily housing units that are located within one-quarter mile
of a transit stop that receives transit service from at least one route that provides service at least four
times per hour for twelve or more hours per day, minimum residential parking requirements may be no
greater than one parking space per bedroom or 0.75 space per unit. The current parking rate for
“Apartments (7 or more units)” is 1 per dwelling unit. Staff proposes reduce the parking to 0.75 parking
spaces so that compliance with RCW is achieved regardless of transit frequency.
III. TEXT AMENDMENT
The text amendment is shown by strikeout/underline and is attached to this memo as Attachment 1.
IV. STAFF REQUEST
If the Planning Commission believes that the changes are ready to proceed, Staff will move forward with
noticing and a public hearing.
V. ATTACHMENTS
1 – ZOA24-0005 Text Amendment
2 – PowerPoint presentation
VI. GLOSSARY OF KEY TERMS (in alphabetical order)
1) ACC18.04.025 “Administrative use” means a use permitted in a zone only after review and approval
by the planning director or designee. Administrative uses are those which typically have some
potential for impacts to neighboring properties, but which may be permitted within a zone following
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review by the city to establish conditions mitigating impacts of the use and to assure compatibility with
other uses in the zone.
2) ACC 18.04.031 “Adult family home” means a residential home licensed by the state in which a person
or persons provide personal care, special care, room, and board to more than one but not more than
six adults who are not related by blood or marriage to the person or persons providing the services.
Adult family homes are not communal residences.
3) ACC 18.04.125 “Assisted living facility” means a combination of housing, supportive services,
personalized assistance, and health care designed to respond to the individual needs of those who
need help with activities of daily living. An establishment with a central or private kitchen, dining,
recreational, and other facilities, with separate bedrooms or living quarters, where the emphasis of the
facility remains residential. An assisted living facility is not a communal residence.
4) ACC 18.04.249 “Communal residence” is a business operated out of a single residential home
without an owner occupant residing therein, where the residential home, or portions thereof, is/are
rented to more than one individual through separate, unrelated lease or rental agreements. The fact
that the individuals rent the residence or a portion thereof through separate, unrelated lease or rental
agreements shall be prima facie evidence that the individuals are unrelated and do not meet the
definition of “family” per ACC 18.04.360. Adult family homes, foster care homes, group residence
facilities, special needs housing, and supportive housing are not communal residences.
5) ACC 18.04.359 “Emergency housing” means temporary indoor accommodations for individuals or
families who are homeless or at imminent risk of becoming homeless that is intended to address the
basic health, food, clothing, and personal hygiene needs of individuals or families. Emergency housing
may or may not require occupants to enter into a lease or an occupancy agreement.
6) ACC 18.04.360 “Emergency shelter” means a facility that provides a temporary shelter for individuals
or families who are currently homeless. Emergency shelter may not require occupants to enter into a
lease or an occupancy agreement. Emergency shelter facilities may include day and warming centers
that do not provide overnight accommodations.
7) ACC 18.04.694 “Permanent Supportive Housing” is subsidized, leased housing with no limit on length
of stay that prioritizes people who need comprehensive support services to retain tenancy and utilizes
admissions practices designed to use lower barriers to entry than would be typical for other
subsidized or unsubsidized rental housing, especially related to rental history, criminal history, and
personal behaviors. Permanent supportive housing is paired with on-site or off-site voluntary services
designed to support a person living with a complex and disabling behavioral health or physical health
condition who was experiencing homelessness or was at imminent risk of homelessness prior to
moving into housing to retain their housing and be a successful tenant in a housing arrangement,
improve the resident's health status, and connect the resident of the housing with community -based
health care, treatment, or employment services. Permanent supportive housing is subject to all of the
rights and responsibilities defined in chapter 59.18 RCW.
8) ACC 18.04.696 “Permitted use” means a land use that is allowed outright within a zone.
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Chapter 18.04 ACC, Definitions Page 1 of 2
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6904, passed February 21, 2023.
Chapter 18.04
DEFINITIONS
Sections:
18.04.465 Homeless encampment.
18.04.485 Host agency.
18.04.792 Religious institution.
18.04.793 Religious organization.
18.04.828 Sponsoring agency.
18.04.891 Supportive housing.
18.04.896.1 Transitional housing.
18.04.465 Homeless encampment.
“Homeless encampment” means an emergency homeless encampment hosted by a religious
organizationchurch or other organization, which provides temporary housing to homeless persons. (Ord. 6245
§ 3, 2009; Ord. 6014 § 2, 2006.)
18.04.485 Host agency.
“Host agency” means the owner of the property, being a religious institution or other organization, that joins a
sponsoring agency in an application for a indoor emergency housing, indoor emergency shelters, permanent
supportive housing, and transitional housing temporary use permit for providing basic services and support to
homeless encampment residents, such as hot meals, coordination of other needed donations and services, etc.
(Ord. 6245 § 3, 2009; Ord. 6014 § 3, 2006.)
18.04.792 Religious institution.
“Religious institution” means an establishment, operated by a religious organization, that provides religious
worship, religious services or religious ceremonies as its principal use with the sanctuary or principal place of
worship contained within a principal building. Incidental and accessory uses that include chapels or
subordinate places of worship, school rooms, daycares, classrooms, kitchens, library rooms or reading rooms,
recreation halls or offices are permitted in the principal building or in separate buildings. Caretaker’s quarters
or living quarters for employees are also permissible as an accessory use. The following incidental and
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Chapter 18.04 ACC, Definitions Page 2 of 2
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6904, passed February 21, 2023.
accessory uses to a religious institution are not permitted unless allowed under a valid temporary use permit
issued pursuant to ACC 18.46A.070: (A) facilities for training of religious orders; (B) nonemployee rooms for
rent, boarding rooms or similar facilities; or (C) public showers or other public health services. (Ord. 6245 § 3,
2009; Ord. 6014 § 1, 2006; Ord. 5550 § 1, 2001.)
18.04.793 Religious organization.
"Religious organization" means the federally protected practice of a recognized religious assembly, school, or
institution that owns or controls real property.
18.04.828 Sponsoring agency.
“Sponsoring agency” means an organization that joins in an application with a host agency for a temporary use
permitindoor emergency housing, indoor emergency shelters, permanent supportive housing, and transitional
housing and assumes responsibility for providing basic services and support to homeless encampment
residents, such as hot meals, coordination of other needed donations and services, etc. (Ord. 6245 § 3, 2009;
Ord. 6014 § 4, 2006.)
18.04.891 Supportive housing.
“Supportive housing” means a multiple-family dwelling owned or sponsored by a nonprofit corporation or
government entity, designed for occupancy by individual adults that are either (A) homeless or at risk of
homelessness; (B) are experiencing a disability that presents barriers to employment and housing stability; or
(C) generally require structured supportive services to be successful living in the community ; is permitted at a
greater unit density than otherwise allowed within a particular zone; and is intended to provide long-term,
rather than transitional, housing. Long-term housing is approximately longer than two years, whereas
transitional housing is no more than two years.. Supportive housing is not a communal residence. (Ord. 6560
§ 8, 2015; Ord. 6245 § 3, 2009; Ord. 6167 § 1, 2008.)
18.04.896.1 Transitional housing.
"Transitional housing" means a supportive housing for persons or families for up to two years for the purpose
of facilitating the movement of persons and families into independent living.
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Chapter 18.07 ACC, Residential Zones Page 1 of 7
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6944, passed July 15, 2024.
Chapter 18.07
RESIDENTIAL ZONES
Sections:
18.07.010 Intent.
18.07.020 Uses.
18.07.030 Development standards.
18.07.020 Uses.
Table 18.07.020. Permitted Use Table – Residential Zones
P = Permitted A = Administrative C = Conditional Use X = Not Permitted
Land Uses Zoning Designations
RC R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 R-NM R-F
A. Residential Uses.
Accessory dwelling units subject to the
provisions contains in Chapter 18.32
P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 P1
Accessory use, residential P P P P P P P
Adult family home P P P P P P1 P
Apartments (7 units or more) X X X P11 P P X
Bed and breakfast or short-term rentals P P P P P X P
Caretaker apartment X X X X X P X
Communal residence four or less
individuals
P P P P P X P
Page 15 of 109
Chapter 18.07 ACC, Residential Zones Page 2 of 7
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6944, passed July 15, 2024.
Foster care homes P P P P P X P
Group residence facilities (7 or more
residents)
X X X P P P P
Group residence facilities (6 or fewer
residents)
P P P P P P P
Keeping of animals4 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2
Middle housing subject to the provisions
in Chapter 18.25 (2 to 6 units)
P P P P P P P
Neighborhood recreational buildings and
facilities owned and managed by the
neighborhood homeowners’ association
A6 A6 A6 A6 A6 P P
Use as dwelling units of (1) recreational
vehicles that are not part of an approved
recreational vehicle park, (2) boats, (3)
automobiles, and (4) other vehicles
X X X X X X X
Renting of rooms, for lodging purposes
only, to accommodate not more than two
persons in addition to the family or owner
occupied unit8
P P P P P P P
Residential care facilities including but not
limited to assisted living facilities,
convalescent homes, continuing care
retirement facilities
P P P P P P P
Single-unit detached dwellings, new P P P X X X P
Supportive housing (permanent), subject
to the provisions of ACC 18.31.160
PX PX XP P P P P
Page 16 of 109
Chapter 18.07 ACC, Residential Zones Page 3 of 7
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6944, passed July 15, 2024.
Swimming pools, tennis courts and similar
outdoor recreation uses only accessory to
residential or park uses
P P P P P P P
Townhouses (attached) X X X X P P P
Transitional housing P P P P P P P
B. Commercial Uses.
Commercial horse riding and bridle trails A X X X X X X
Commercial recreation facility, indoor X X X X P P X
Commercial retail establishment X X A A P P A
Convenience store X X X X P P X
Daycare, limited to a mini daycare center.
Daycare center, preschool or nursery
school may also be permitted but must
be located on an arterial
X P P P P P P
Grocery or specialty food store X X X A P P A
Home-based (or family) daycare as
regulated by RCW 35.63.185 and through
receipt of approved city business license
P P P P P P P
Home occupations subject to compliance
with Chapter 18.60 ACC
P P P P P P P
Marijuana cooperative X X X X X X X
Marijuana processor X X X X X X X
Marijuana producer X X X X X X X
Marijuana related business X X X X X X X
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Chapter 18.07 ACC, Residential Zones Page 4 of 7
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6944, passed July 15, 2024.
Marijuana researcher X X X X X X X
Marijuana retailer X X X X X X X
Marijuana transporter business X X X X X X X
Mixed-use development3, 10 X X X P P P P
Personal service shop X X A P P P P
Nursing homes X X X X C C C
Privately owned and operated parks and
playgrounds and not homeowners’
association-owned recreational area
X A A A A P P
Professional offices X X A A P9 P P
Restaurant, café, or coffee shop X X A A P P A
Neighborhood retail establishment X X A A P P P
C. Resource Uses.
Agricultural enterprise:7
When 50 percent, or more, of the total
site area is dedicated to active agricultural
production during the growing season,
and with 52 or less special events per
calendar year
A7 X X X X X X
When less than 50 percent of the total site
area is dedicated to active agricultural
production during the growing season, or
with more than 52 special events per
calendar year
C7 X X X X X X
Page 18 of 109
Chapter 18.07 ACC, Residential Zones Page 5 of 7
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6944, passed July 15, 2024.
Agricultural type uses are permitted
provided they are incidental and
secondary to the single-family use:
Agricultural crops and open field growing
(commercial)
P X X X X X X
Barns, silos and related structures P X X X X X X
Commercial greenhouses P X X X X X X
Pasturing and grazing4 P X X X X X X
Public and private stables4 P X X X X X X
Roadside stands, for the sale of
agricultural products raised on the
premises. The stand cannot exceed 300
square feet in area and must meet the
applicable setback requirements
P X X X X X X
Fish hatcheries C X X X X X X
D. Government, Institutional, and Utility Uses.
Civic, social and fraternal clubs X X X X A A A
Government facilities A A A A A A A
Hospitals (except animal hospitals) X X X X X C C
Municipal parks and playgrounds A P P P P P P
Museums X X X X A A A
Religious institutions, less than one acre
lot size12
A A A A A A A
Religious institutions, one acre or larger
lot size12
C C C C C C C
Page 19 of 109
Chapter 18.07 ACC, Residential Zones Page 6 of 7
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6944, passed July 15, 2024.
Transmitting towers C C C C C C C
Type 1-D wireless communications facility
(see ACC 18.04.912(W) and ACC 18.31.100)
P P P P P P P
Eligible facilities request (EFR) (wireless
communications facility – See ACC
18.04.912(H))
P P P P P P P
Utility facilities and substations C5 C5 C5 C5 C5 C5 C5
Small wireless facilities (ACC 18.04.912(Q)) P P P P P P P
1 An accessory dwelling unit may be permitted with an existing single-family residence
pursuant to ACC 18.31.120.
2 Please see the supplemental development standards for animals in ACC 18.31.220.
3 Individual uses that make up a mixed-use development must be permitted within the zone.
If a use making up part of a mixed-use development requires an administrative or conditional
use permit, the individual use must apply for and receive the administrative or conditional use
approval, as applicable.
4 Proximity of pasture or livestock roaming area to wells, surface waters, and aquifer recharge
zones is regulated by the King or Pierce County board of health, and property owners shall
comply with the provisions of the board of health code.
5 Excludes all public and private utility facilities addressed under ACC 18.02.040(E).
6 Administrative use permit not required when approved as part of a subdivision or binding
site plan.
7 Agricultural enterprise uses are subject to supplemental development standards under ACC
18.31.210, Agricultural enterprises development standards.
8 An owner occupant that rents to more than two persons but no more than four persons is
required to obtain a city of Auburn rental housing business license and shall meet the
standards of the International Property Maintenance Code.
9 As component of Mixed-use developments and/or office ground floor uses permitted up to
5,000 square feet.
Page 20 of 109
Chapter 18.07 ACC, Residential Zones Page 7 of 7
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6944, passed July 15, 2024.
10 Commercial uses permitted outright, or allowed administratively or conditionally in this
table may be allowed as part of mixed-use development.
11 Apartment buildings and Mixed-use development consisting of no more than 20 units and
3-stories per lot is permitted.
12 Reference ACC 18.31.165 for standards related to homeless encampments hosted by a
religious organization.
(Ord. 6799 § 5 (Exh. E), 2020; Ord. 6642 § 4, 2017; Ord. 6600 § 9, 2016; Ord. 6565 § 2, 2015; Ord.
6560 § 9, 2015; Ord. 6477 § 8, 2013; Ord. 6369 § 2, 2011; Ord. 6363 § 3, 2011; Ord. 6269 § 3,
2009; Ord. 6245 § 5, 2009.)
Page 21 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 1 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
Chapter 18.23
COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL ZONES
Sections:
18.23.010 Purpose.
18.23.020 Intent of commercial and industrial zones.
18.23.030 Uses.
18.23.040 Development standards.
18.23.060 Additional development standards for the C-1, C-2, C-AG, and M-1 zones.
18.23.030 Uses.
A. General Permit Requirements. Table 18.23.030 identifies the uses of land allowed in each
commercial and industrial zone and the land use approval process required to establish each
use.
B. Requirements for Certain Specific Land Uses. Where the last column in Table 18.23.030
(“Standards for Specific Land Uses”) includes a reference to a code section number, the
referenced section determines other requirements and standards applicable to the use
regardless of whether it is permitted outright or requires an administrative or conditional use
permit.
C. Uses Affected by the Airport Overlay. Refer to Chapter 18.38 ACC to determine whether uses
are separately prohibited by that chapter or will be required to comply with additional
regulations that are associated with the airport overlay.
Table 18.23.030. Permitted, Administrative, Conditional and Prohibited Uses by Zone,
Commercial and Industrial Zones
Page 22 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 2 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
INDUSTRIAL, MANUFACTURING AND PROCESSING, WHOLESALING
Building contractor, light X P X P P
Building contractor, heavy X X X A P
Manufacturing, assembling
and packaging – Light
intensity
X P X P P ACC 18.31.180
Manufacturing, assembling
and packaging – Medium
intensity
X A X P P ACC 18.31.180
Manufacturing, assembling
and packaging – Heavy
intensity
X X X X A ACC 18.31.180
Marijuana processor X X X C C Chapter 18.59 ACC
Marijuana producer X X X C C Chapter 18.59 ACC
Marijuana researcher X X X C C Chapter 18.59 ACC
Marijuana retailer X C X C C Chapter 18.59 ACC
Page 23 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 3 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
Marijuana transporter
business
X X X C C Chapter 18.59 ACC
Outdoor storage,
incidental to principal
permitted use on property
X P X P P ACC 18.57.020(A)
Storage – Personal
household storage facility
(mini-storage)
P P X P P ACC 18.57.020(B)
Warehousing and
distribution
X X X P C ACC 18.57.020(C)
Warehousing and
distribution, bonded and
located within a
designated foreign trade
zone
X P X P P
Wholesaling with on-site
retail as an incidental use
(e.g., coffee, bakery)
X P X P P
RECREATION, EDUCATION AND PUBLIC ASSEMBLY USES
Commercial recreation
facility, indoor
P P P P A
Page 24 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 4 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
Commercial recreation
facility, outdoor
X A A P A ACC 18.57.025(A)
Conference/convention
facility
X A X A X
Library, museum A A X A X
Meeting facility, public or
private
P P X A A
Movie theater, except
drive-in
P P P X X
Private school – Specialized
education/training (for
profit)
A P P P P
Religious institutions, lot
size less than one acre
P P A A A ACC 18.31.165
Religious institutions, lot
size more than one acre
P P A A A ACC 18.31.165
Sexually oriented
businesses
X P X P P Chapter 18.74 ACC
Page 25 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 5 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
Sports and entertainment
assembly facility
X A X A A
Studio – Art, dance, martial
arts, music, etc.
P P P P A
RESIDENTIAL
Apartment units, as part of
a mixed-use development2
X X P P P X ACC 18.57.030
Apartments, stand-alone X X X X X X
Caretaker apartment P P X P P
Indoor emergency
housing or shelter
P P P A A ACC 18.31.160
Live/work unit, as part of a
mixed-use development2
X P P P X
Live/work unit, stand-
alone3
X X X X X X
Work/live unit, as part of a
mixed-use development2
P P P P X
Page 26 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 6 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
Work/live unit, stand-
alone3
X X X X X
Marijuana cooperative X X X X X
Nursing home, assisted
living facility
P P C X X
Senior housing2 X A X X X
Supportive housing
(permanent)
P P P A A ACC 18.31.160
Transitional housing P P P A A ACC 18.31.160
RETAIL
Building and landscape
materials sales
X P X P P ACC 18.57.035(A)
Construction and heavy
equipment sales and rental
X X X A P
Convenience store A P X P P
Drive-through espresso
stands
A P A P A
Page 27 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 7 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
Drive-through facility,
including banks and
restaurants
A P P P P ACC 18.52.040
Entertainment, commercial A P X A A
Groceries, specialty food
stores
P P P P X
Nursery X P A P P ACC 18.57.035(C)
Outdoor displays and sales
associated with a
permitted use
(auto/vehicle sales not
included in this category)
P P P P P ACC 18.57.035(D)
Restaurant, cafe, coffee
shop
P P P P P
Retail
Community retail
establishment
P P P P P
Neighborhood retail
establishment
P P P P P
Page 28 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 8 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
Regional retail
establishment
X X P P P A
Tasting room P P P P P P
Tavern P X P P P A
Wine production facility,
small craft distillery, small
craft brewery
P P P P P P
SERVICES
Animal daycare (excluding
kennels and animal
boarding)
A A P A P P ACC 18.57.040(A)
Animal sales and services
(excluding kennels and
veterinary clinics)
P P P P P P ACC 18.57.040(B)
Banking and related
financial institutions,
excluding drive-through
facilities
P P P P P P
Catering service P P P A P P
Page 29 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 9 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
Daycare, including mini
daycare, daycare center,
preschools or nursery
schools
P P P P X
Dry cleaning and laundry
service (personal)
P P P P P
Equipment rental and
leasing
X P X P P
Kennel, animal boarding X A X A A ACC 18.57.040(C)
Government facilities; this
excludes offices and
related uses that are
permitted outright
A A A A A
Hospital P P X P P
Lodging – Hotel or motel P P P A A
Medical – Dental clinic P P P P X
Mortuary, funeral home,
crematorium
P P X P X
Page 30 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 10 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
Personal service shops P P P P X
Pharmacies P P P X X
Print and copy shop P P P P X
Printing and publishing (of
books, newspaper and
other printed matter)
A P P P P
Professional offices P P P P P
Repair service –
Equipment, appliances
A P P P P ACC 18.57.040(D)
Veterinary clinic, animal
hospital
P P P P X
Youth community support
facility
P X X X X ACC 18.57.040(E)
TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNICATIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Ambulance, taxi, and
specialized transportation
facility
X A X P P
Page 31 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 11 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
Broadcasting studio P P X P P
Heliport X C X C C
Motor freight terminal1 X X X X X See Footnote No. 1
Parking facility, public or
commercial, surface
P P P P X
Parking facility, public or
commercial, structured
P P P P X
Towing storage yard X X X A P ACC 18.57.045(A)
Utility transmission or
distribution line or
substation
A A A A A
Wireless communications
facility (WCF) (See ACC
18.04.912(W))
* * * * * *See ACC 18.31.100 for use
regulations and zoning
development standards.
Eligible facilities request
(EFR) (wireless
communications facility)
(See ACC 18.04.912(H))
P P P P P
Page 32 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 12 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
Small wireless facilities
(ACC 18.04.912(Q))
P P P P P
VEHICLE SALES AND SERVICES
Automobile washes
(automatic, full or self-
service)
A P P P P ACC 18.57.050(A)
Auto parts sales with
installation services
A P P P P
Auto/vehicle sales and
rental
A P X P P ACC 18.57.050(B)
Fueling station A P P P P ACC 18.57.050(C)
Mobile home, boat, or RV
sales
X P X P P
Vehicle services –
Repair/body work
X P X P P ACC 18.57.050(D)
OTHER
Any commercial use
abutting a residential zone
which has hours of
A A A A A
Page 33 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 13 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
PERMITTED, ADMINISTRATIVE, CONDITIONAL AND PROHIBITED USES BY
ZONE
P – Permitted
C – Conditional
A – Administrative
X – Prohibited
LAND USE
Zoning Designation Standards for Specific
Land Uses C-1 C-2 C-AG M-1 M-2
operation outside of the
following: Sunday: 9:00
a.m. to 10:00 p.m. or
Monday – Saturday: 7:00
a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Other uses may be
permitted by the planning
director or designee if the
use is determined to be
consistent with the intent
of the zone and is of the
same general character of
the uses permitted. See
ACC 18.02.120(C)(6),
Unclassified Uses.
P P P P P
1 Any motor freight terminal, as defined by ACC 18.04.635, in existence as of the effective date of the
ordinance codified in this section, is an outright permitted use in the M-1 and M-2 zones. Any maintenance,
alterations and additions to an existing motor freight terminal which are consistent with ACC 18.23.040,
Development standards, are allowed.
2 Any mixed-use development or senior housing project vested prior to Resolution No. 5187 (December 7,
2015) is an outright permitted use in the C-1 zone. Subsequently, if a nonresidential use within a vested
mixed-use development changes, then the nonresidential use shall maintain a minimum of 10 percent of the
cumulative building ground floor square footage consisting of the uses permitted outright, administratively, or
conditionally, listed under “Recreation, Education, and Public Assembly,” “Retail,” or “Services” of the C-1 zone.
Page 34 of 109
Chapter 18.23 ACC, Commercial and Industrial Zones Page 14 of 14
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
3 Any stand-alone live/work units or stand-alone work/live units vested prior to the effective date of the
ordinance codified in this chapter are outright permitted uses.
(Ord. 6885 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022; Ord. 6838 § 1 (Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 6799 § 6 (Exh. F), 2020; Ord. 6728 § 3 (Exh. C),
2019; Ord. 6688 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2018; Ord. 6644 § 2, 2017; Ord. 6642 § 9, 2017; Ord. 6508 § 1, 2014; Ord. 6433 § 26,
2012.)
Page 35 of 109
Chapter 18.25 ACC, Infill Residential Development Standards Page 1 of 2
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
Chapter 18.25
MIDDLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Sections:
18.25.010 Purpose and intent.
18.25.020 Applicability.
18.25.030 Procedures.
18.25.040 Middle housing types.
18.25.050 Calculating parking requirements.
18.25.060 Accessory Dwelling Units.
18.25.070 Middle housing design standards.
18.25.080 Usable open space.
18.25.090 Courtyard housing standards.
18.25.0100 Lot splitting.
18.25.020 Applicability.
A. Eligibility Criteria. This chapter may be applied to development or redevelopment that meets
the following criteria:
1. The lot is within one of the following zones: RC, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-NM
B. Exceptions. This chapter may be applied to development or redevelopment, except for the
following below:
1. Middle Housing is not permitted within Urban Separators.
2. Middle Housing is not permitted in the R-HMC zone.
3. Middle Housing is not permitted on lots smaller than one thousand (1,000) square feet.
Page 36 of 109
Chapter 18.25 ACC, Infill Residential Development Standards Page 2 of 2
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6912, passed July 17, 2023.
4. Middle Housing middle housing provisions do not apply to portions of a lot, parcel, or
tract designated with critical areas designated under RCW 36.70A.170 or their buffers as
required by RCW 36.70A.170, except for critical aquifer recharge areas where a single-
family detached house is an allowed use provided that any requirements to maintain
aquifer recharge are met. shall not be used to justify alteration of a regulated critical area
per Chapter 16.10 ACC.
Page 37 of 109
Chapter 18.31 ACC, Supplemental Development Standards Page 1 of 2
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6904, passed February 21, 2023.
Chapter 18.31
SUPPLEMENTAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Sections:
18.31.010 Daycare standards.
18.31.020 Fences.
18.31.025 Retaining walls.
18.31.030 Height limitations – Exceptions.
18.31.040 Lots.
18.31.050 Single-unit detached dwelling siting and design standards.
18.31.060 Recreational vehicle parks.
18.31.070 Setbacks.
18.31.080 Heliports.
18.31.090 Work release, prerelease and similar facilities.
18.31.100 Wireless communications facilities siting standards.
18.31.110 Siting of small wireless facilities.
18.31.115 Wetland mitigation.
18.31.130 Communal residence standards.
18.31.140 Gated residential subdivisions.
18.31.150 Secure community transition facilities.
18.31.160 Supportive housing development standards.
18.31.170 Reserved.
18.31.180 Performance standards.
18.31.190 Supplemental standards for residential mobile home communities.
18.31.200 Architectural and site design review standards and regulations.
18.31.210 Agricultural enterprises development standards.
18.31.220 Permitted animals.
18.31.230 Repealed.
18.31.130 Communal residence standards.
A. Parking Requirements. There must be one off-street parking stall that meets city standards of ACC
18.52.050, Parking design, development, and maintenance standards, per tenant. The applicant must
demonstrate that each off-site parking space is under their ownership. In condominium or townhouse
communities the applicant can also provide legal documentation that demonstrates that they have exclusive use
of a common area parking space. The city shall reduce the off-street parking requirement if the property owner
provides and maintains a notarized affidavit signed separately by each tenant, certifying that a tenant does not
own a vehicle or have control of a vehicle while at the residence. A copy of the affidavit must be provided to
the city upon request.
Page 38 of 109
Chapter 18.31 ACC, Supplemental Development Standards Page 2 of 2
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6904, passed February 21, 2023.
B. Solid Waste Management Requirements.
1. ACC 8.08.070 requires all occupied communal residences to have minimum garbage service. The
landlord is required to provide tenants with adequate garbage and recycle receptacles meeting the
minimum garbage service level of this section.
2. The landlord is responsible to provide each tenant with the solid waste collection schedule at the time
of the tenant’s initial occupancy and that schedule is to be posted within the unit.
C. Periodic Inspection Required. Upon written request, the communal rental housing owner or manager shall
allow inspection of the communal rental housing residential units consistent with their ability to do so under
the requirements of the landlord-tenant statutes of the state of Washington and the Auburn City Code,
including ACC 5.22.050(C)(3). The city may, with the legally obtained consent of an occupant or owner or
manager, or pursuant to a lawfully issued warrant, enter any building, structure or premises in the city to
inspect or perform any duty imposed by this code.
D. Occupancy Limits.
1. International Property Maintenance Code occupancy requirements are applicable to a communal
residence regardless of the number of individuals living in the residence.
2. The occupancy limit for a communal residence shall not exceed four people. (Ord. 6560 § 10, 2015;
Ord. 6477 § 9, 2013; Ord. 6245 § 15, 2009.)
Page 39 of 109
ACC 18.31.160, Supportive housing development standards Page 1 of 4
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
Chapter 18.31
SUPPLEMENTAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Sections:
18.31.010 Daycare standards.
18.31.020 Fences.
18.31.025 Retaining walls.
18.31.030 Height limitations – Exceptions.
18.31.040 Lots.
18.31.050 Single-family dwelling siting and design standards.
18.31.060 Recreational vehicle parks.
18.31.070 Setbacks.
18.31.080 Heliports.
18.31.090 Work release, prerelease and similar facilities.
18.31.100 Wireless communications facilities siting standards.
18.31.110 Siting of small wireless facilities.
18.31.115 Wetland mitigation.
18.31.120 Accessory dwelling units.
18.31.130 Communal residence standards.
18.31.140 Gated residential subdivisions.
18.31.150 Secure community transition facilities.
18.31.160 Supportive housing development standards.Supplemental
standards for transitional housing, permanent supportive housing,
indoor emergency shelters, and indoor emergency housing.
18.31.170 Reserved.
18.31.180 Performance standards.
18.31.190 Supplemental standards for residential mobile home communities.
18.31.200 Architectural and site design review standards and regulations.
18.31.210 Agricultural enterprises development standards.
18.31.220 Permitted animals.
18.31.230 Repealed.
Page 40 of 109
ACC 18.31.160, Supportive housing development standards Page 2 of 4
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
18.31.160 Supplemental standards for transitional housing,
permanent supportive housing, indoor emergency shelters,
and indoor emergency housing.pportive housing
development standards.
A. General Standards. Transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, indoor emergency
shelters, and indoor emergency housing projects Supportive housing projects allowed pursuant
to ACC 18.07.020 and ACC 18.23.020 shall comply with the following standards:
1. With exception to indoor emergency shelters, the minimum Minimum lot area per unit:
1,200 square feet.
2. Must comply with the International Building Code (IBC) with relation to occupancy. For
lots with an area of up to one acre, the maximum number of units allowed is 25; for lots
with an area greater than one acre, the maximum number of units allowed is 50.
3. . Maximum lot size: threetwo acres.
4. Minimum separation from other supportive housing projects: five miles.
54. Maximum unit size: 450 square feet (on-site manager unit excepted).
65. Shall provide an on-site resident manager who is accountable to the owner or
manager of the supportive housing project.
76. Appropriate on-site or off-site support services shall be available. within 1,000 feet.
Off-site support services shall provide residents with case management services,
medication monitoring, help with vocational training and goals, access to chemical
dependency services, assistance with activities of daily living, etc.
8. Registered sex offenders shall not be allowed to reside within supportive housing
projects located within 880 feet of a school, church, daycare facility or public park.
Page 41 of 109
ACC 18.31.160, Supportive housing development standards Page 3 of 4
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
97. A written management plan shall be provided for the review and approval of the
planning director. At a minimum, a management plan shall address the following:
a. The specific nature of the supportive housing project and its intended occupants;
b. Its potential impact on nearby residential uses and proposed methods to mitigate
those impacts;
c. Identification of the project management or agency to whom support staff are
responsible and who will be available to resolve concerns pertaining to the facility;
d. Identification of staffing, supervision and security arrangements appropriate to the
facility;
e. If the planning director determines at any time there is evidence of fraud in
obtaining the permit; concealment or misrepresentation of any material fact on the
application or on any subsequent applications or reports; or that the supportive
housing project is found to be in violation of the approved plans, conditions of
approvals, or the terms of the permit or management plan, and the owner has failed to
correct the violation after proper notice thereof; then the planning director may order
the closure of the project.
108. If a supportivethe housing project is discontinued or abandoned, future use of the
property shall be in conformance with the use and development standards of the R-20
zone. (Ord. 6245 § 15, 2009.)
B. Indoor overnight shelter specific standards. Where an indoor overnight shelter does not
have sprinklers the following shall apply:
1. Has at least two accessible exits; and
2. Does not pose imminent danger to persons, as determined by Building Official; then
3. The organization must enter into a memorandum of understanding for fire safety that
includes local fire district inspections, an outline for appropriate emergency procedures,
a determination of the most viable means to evacuate occupants from inside the host
site with appropriate illuminated exit signage, panic bar exit doors, and a completed fire
watch agreement indicating:
Page 42 of 109
ACC 18.31.160, Supportive housing development standards Page 4 of 4
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
a. Posted safe means of egress;
b. Operable smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors as necessary, and fire
extinguishers; and
c. A plan for monitors who spend the night awake and are familiar with
emergency protocols, who have suitable communication devices, and who know
how to contact the local fire department.
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
Disclaimer: The city clerk’s office has the official version of the Auburn City Code. Users should
contact the city clerk’s office for ordinances passed subsequent to the ordinance cited above.
City Website: www.auburnwa.gov
Hosted by General Code.
Page 43 of 109
Chapter 18.31
SUPPLEMENTAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Sections:
18.31.010 Daycare standards.
18.31.020 Fences.
18.31.025 Retaining walls.
18.31.030 Height limitations – Exceptions.
18.31.040 Lots.
18.31.050 Single-unit detached dwelling siting and design standards.
18.31.060 Recreational vehicle parks.
18.31.070 Setbacks.
18.31.080 Heliports.
18.31.090 Work release, prerelease and similar facilities.
18.31.100 Wireless communications facilities siting standards.
18.31.110 Siting of small wireless facilities.
18.31.115 Wetland mitigation.
18.31.130 Communal residence standards.
18.31.140 Gated residential subdivisions.
18.31.150 Secure community transition facilities.
18.31.160 Supportive housing development standards.
18.31.165 Homeless encampment hosted by a religious organization standards.
18.31.170 Reserved.
18.31.180 Performance standards.
18.31.190 Supplemental standards for residential mobile home communities.
18.31.200 Architectural and site design review standards and regulations.
18.31.210 Agricultural enterprises development standards.
18.31.220 Permitted animals.
18.31.230 Repealed.
18.31.165 Homeless Encampment Hosted by a Religious Organization.
A. . Homeless encampments hosted by a religious organization is allowed as an accessory use
to a religious institution, subject to the following criteria and requirements:
1. Notice.
a. The religious organization shall notify the city of the proposed homeless
encampment a minimum of 30 days in advance of the proposed date of establishment
Page 44 of 109
for the homeless encampment and at least 14 days before encampment commences.
The advance notification shall contain the following information:
i. The date the homeless encampment will encamp;
ii. The length of the encampment;
iii. The maximum number of residents proposed;
iv. The host location; and
v. Documentation that the host organization meets the definition of ACC
18.04.793.
b. The religious organization shall conduct at least one public informational meeting,
at least one week but no later than 96 hours prior to commencing the encampment.
The time and location of the meeting shall be agreed upon between the city and
sponsoring agency. All property owners within 1,000 feet of the proposed homeless
encampment shall be notified at least 14 days in advance of the meeting by the
sponsoring agency. Proof of mailing shall be provided to the director of planning and
development. At any time prior to the meeting the city will either:
i. Display notice signage at the meeting site;
ii. Display notice signage at the hosting site;
iii. Post the notice on the city’s website; or
iv. Post the notice in the newspaper of local circulation.
c. A memorandum of understanding to protect the public health and safety of both the
residents within and outside of the encampment. At a minimum, the agreement must
include information regarding:
a. The right of a resident in an outdoor encampment to seek public health and
safety assistance;
b. The resident's ability to access social services on-site, and the resident's ability
to directly interact with the religious organization, including the ability to express
any concerns regarding an sponsor agency to the religious organization;
c. A written code of conduct agreed to by the religious organization, if any,
sponsor religious organization, and all volunteers working with residents of the
outdoor encampment; and
Page 45 of 109
d. When a publicly funded managing agency exists, the ability for the religious
organization to interact with residents of the outdoor encampment using a
release of information.
2. Site Criteria.
a. The property must be owned or controlled by the religious organization whether
within buildings located on the property or elsewhere on the property outside of
buildings.
b. The property must be sufficient in size to accommodate tents and necessary on-
site facilities, including, but not limited to, the following:
i. Sanitary portable toilets in the number required to meet capacity guidelines;
ii. Hand washing stations by the toilets and by the food areas;
iii. Refuse receptacles and trash enclosures;
c. If sanitary portable toilets are used, proof of service contract for maintenance must
be submitted.
d. The religious organization shall provide an adequate water source to the homeless
encampment, as approved by the provider as appropriate or other water service. Proof
of contracted service of water vendor or proposed source of water must be depicted
on site plan.
d. No homeless encampment shall be located within a critical area or its buffer as
defined under Chapter 16.10 ACC.
e. No permanent structures will be constructed for the homeless encampment.
f. No more than 100 residents shall be allowed. The city may further limit the number
of residents as site conditions dictate.
g. Adequate on-site parking shall be provided for the homeless encampment. No off-
site parking will be allowed. The number of vehicles used by homeless encampment
residents shall be provided. If the homeless encampment is located on site with
another use, it shall be demonstrated that the homeless encampment parking will not
create a shortage of code-required on-site parking for the other uses on the property.
Page 46 of 109
h. The homeless encampment shall be adequately buffered and screened from
adjacent right-of-way and residential properties. Screening shall be a minimum height
of six feet and may include, but is not limited to, a combination of fencing, landscaping,
or the placement of the homeless encampment behind buildings. The type of
screening shall be approved by the city.
i. All sanitary portable toilets shall be screened from adjacent properties and rights-of-
way. The type of screening shall be approved by the city and may include, but is not
limited to, a combination of fencing and/or landscaping.
j. The religious organization shall be responsible for the cleanup of the homeless
encampment site within seven calendar days of the encampment’s termination.
3. Security.
a. An operations and security plan for the homeless encampment shall be submitted
and approved by the city.
b. The religious organization shall provide to all residents of the homeless
encampment a code of conduct for living at the homeless encampment. A copy of the
code of conduct shall be submitted to the city at the time of application.
c. All homeless encampment residents must sign an agreement to abide by the code
of conduct and failure to do so shall result in the noncompliant resident’s immediate
and permanent expulsion from the property.
d. The religious organization shall keep a log of all people who stay overnight in the
encampment, including names and birth dates, and dates of stay.
e. The religious organization shall take all reasonable and legal steps to obtain
verifiable identification, such as a driver’s license, government-issued identification
card, military identification or passport from prospective and existing encampment
residents.
f. The religious organization will use identification to obtain sex offender and warrant
checks from the Pierce County or King County sheriff’s office or relevant local police
department.
Page 47 of 109
i. If said warrant and sex offender checks reveal either: (A) an existing or
outstanding warrant from any jurisdiction or the arrest of the individual who is the
subject of the check; or (B) the subject of the check is a sex offender, required to
register with the county sheriff or their county of residence pursuant to RCW
9A.44.130, then the religious organization shall immediately contact the Auburn
police department if there is an active warrant, is due to the individual being a sex
offender required to register and/or if, in the opinion of the on-duty executive
committee member or the on-duty security staff, the person is a potential threat
to the community.
g. The religious organization shall self-police and self-manage its residents and
prohibit alcohol, drugs, weapons, fighting, and abuse of any kind, littering or disturbing
neighbors while located on the property.
h. The religious organization will appoint an executive committee member to serve
on-duty at all times to serve as a point of contact for city of Auburn police and will
orient the police as to how the security operates. The names of the on-duty executive
committee members will be posted daily in the security tent. The city shall provide
contact numbers of nonemergency personnel, which shall be posted at the security
tent.
4. Timing.
a. The maximum consecutive duration of a homeless encampment shall be 120 days.
Citywide, the total maximum number of days homeless encampments may operate in
the city shall not exceed six months in any 24-month period (e.g., two homeless
encampments each operating 1200 days (maximum 6-months total) may be allowed in
a 24-month period).
b. Simultaneous and adjacent hostings of outdoor encampments by religious
organizations may be limited if located within one thousand feet of another outdoor
encampment concurrently hosted by a religious organization.
5. Health and Safety.
a. All temporary structures within the homeless encampment shall conform to all
adopted building codes and Washington State amendments.
Page 48 of 109
b. The homeless encampment shall conform to the following fire requirements:
i. Material used as roof covering and walls shall be of flame-retardant material.
ii. There shall be no open fires for cooking or heating.
iii. No heating appliances within the individual tents are allowed unless the
appliance is designed and licensed for that purpose.
iv. No cooking appliances other than microwave appliances are allowed.
v. An adequate number and appropriate rating of fire extinguishers shall be
provided as approved by the fire department.
vi. Adequate access for fire and emergency medical apparatus shall be provided.
This shall be determined by the fire department.
vii. Adequate separation between tents and other structures shall be maintained
as determined by the fire department.
viii. Electrical service shall be in accordance with recognized and accepted
practice; electrical cords are not to be strung together, and any cords used must
be approved for exterior use.
c. The conduct of the homeless encampment must comply with ACC 8.12.020
“Nuisances affecting public health and safety” and 8.28.010 “Noise control”.
d. The religious organization shall permit inspections by Auburn staff and the King
County health department at reasonable times without prior notice for compliance.
6. Termination. If the religious organization fails to take action against a resident who
violates the standards provided herein, it may result in immediate termination of the
homeless encampment. If the city learns of uncontrolled violence or acts of undisciplined
violence by residents of the encampment and the sponsoring agency has not adequately
addressed the situation, the encampment must be immediately terminated. (Ord. 6565 § 4,
2015; Ord. 6287 § 2, 2010; Ord. 6268 § 2, 2009.)
Page 49 of 109
Chapter 18.46A ACC, Temporary Uses Page 1 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
Chapter 18.46A
TEMPORARY USES
Sections:
18.46A.010 Intent.
18.46A.020 Permit approval required.
18.46A.030 Application and review for temporary use permits.
18.46A.040 Appeals of decisions.
18.46A.050 Exemptions.
18.46A.060 Coordination with other city codes.
18.46A.070 General and specific temporary use permits.
18.46A.080 Approval criteria.
18.46A.090 Performance standards.
18.46A.100 Time limitation.
18.46A.110 Limitation on activity.
18.46A.120 Permit revocation.
18.46A.130 Removal of temporary uses.
18.46A.140 Assurance device.
18.46A.070 General and specific temporary use permits.
F. Specific Type II Temporary Use Permit – Homeless Encampment. In accordance with ACC
18.46A.030, the planning director or designee may issue a Type II temporary and revocable use
permit for a homeless encampment subject to the following criteria and requirements:
1. Procedural Approval.
a. The sponsoring agency shall notify the city of the proposed homeless encampment
a minimum of 30 days in advance of the proposed date of establishment for the
homeless encampment and at least 14 days before submittal of the temporary use
permit. The advance notification shall contain the following information:
i. The date the homeless encampment will encamp;
ii. The length of the encampment;
Page 50 of 109
Chapter 18.46A ACC, Temporary Uses Page 2 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
iii. The maximum number of residents proposed; and
iv. The host location.
b. The sponsoring agency shall conduct at least one public informational meeting
within, or as close to, the neighborhood where the proposed homeless encampment
will be located, a minimum of two weeks prior to the submittal of the temporary use
permit application. The time and location of the meeting shall be agreed upon
between the city and sponsoring agency. All property owners within 1,000 feet of the
proposed homeless encampment shall be notified at least 14 days in advance of the
meeting by the sponsoring agency. Proof of mailing shall be provided to the director of
planning and development.
c. The temporary use permit application shall be accompanied by a hold harmless
agreement whereby the host agency and sponsoring agency agree to indemnify the
city of Auburn for, and hold it harmless from, all damages that may result from the
operation of the homeless encampment by such permit grantee and shall pay all
damages for which the permit grantee or the city of Auburn shall be held liable as the
result of injuries suffered by any person, association or corporation by reason of the
operation of the homeless encampment; provided, that in case any claim is filed with
the city of Auburn or any suit or action is instituted against said city by reason of any
such damage or injury, the city council shall promptly cause written notice thereof to
be given to the grantee and the grantee shall have the right to defend any such suit or
action.
2. Site Criteria.
a. If the sponsoring agency is not the host agency of the site, the sponsoring agency
shall submit a written agreement from the host agency allowing the homeless
encampment.
b. The property must be sufficient in size to accommodate tents and necessary on-
site facilities, including, but not limited to, the following:
i. Sanitary portable toilets in the number required to meet capacity guidelines;
ii. Hand washing stations by the toilets and by the food areas;
Page 51 of 109
Chapter 18.46A ACC, Temporary Uses Page 3 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
iii. Refuse receptacles;
iv. Food tent and security tent.
c. The host and sponsoring agencies shall provide an adequate water source to the
homeless encampment, as approved by the provider as appropriate or other water
service.
d. No homeless encampment shall be located within a critical area or its buffer as
defined under Chapter 16.10 ACC.
e. No permanent structures will be constructed for the homeless encampment.
f. No more than 100 residents shall be allowed. The city may further limit the number
of residents as site conditions dictate.
g. Adequate on-site parking shall be provided for the homeless encampment. No off-
site parking will be allowed. The number of vehicles used by homeless encampment
residents shall be provided. If the homeless encampment is located on site with
another use, it shall be demonstrated that the homeless encampment parking will not
create a shortage of code-required on-site parking for the other uses on the property.
h. The homeless encampment shall be within a quarter mile of a bus stop with seven
days per week service, whenever possible. If not located within a quarter mile of a bus
stop, the sponsoring agency must demonstrate the ability for residents to obtain
access to the nearest public transportation stop (such as carpools or shuttle buses).
i. The homeless encampment shall be adequately buffered and screened from
adjacent right-of-way and residential properties. Screening shall be a minimum height
of six feet and may include, but is not limited to, a combination of fencing, landscaping,
or the placement of the homeless encampment behind buildings. The type of
screening shall be approved by the city.
j. All sanitary portable toilets shall be screened from adjacent properties and rights-of-
way. The type of screening shall be approved by the city and may include, but is not
limited to, a combination of fencing and/or landscaping.
k. The sponsoring agency shall be responsible for the cleanup of the homeless
encampment site within seven calendar days of the encampment’s termination.
Page 52 of 109
Chapter 18.46A ACC, Temporary Uses Page 4 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
3. Security.
a. An operations and security plan for the homeless encampment shall be submitted
and approved by the city.
b. The host agency shall provide to all residents of the homeless encampment a code
of conduct for living at the homeless encampment. A copy of the code of conduct shall
be submitted to the city at the time of application.
c. All homeless encampment residents must sign an agreement to abide by the code
of conduct and failure to do so shall result in the noncompliant resident’s immediate
and permanent expulsion from the property.
d. The sponsoring agency shall keep a log of all people who stay overnight in the
encampment, including names and birth dates, and dates of stay.
e. The sponsoring agency shall take all reasonable and legal steps to obtain verifiable
identification, such as a driver’s license, government-issued identification card, military
identification or passport from prospective and existing encampment residents.
f. The sponsoring agency will use identification to obtain sex offender and warrant
checks from the Pierce County or King County sheriff’s office or relevant local police
department.
i. If said warrant and sex offender checks reveal either: (A) an existing or
outstanding warrant from any jurisdiction in the United States for the arrest of the
individual who is the subject of the check; or (B) the subject of the check is a sex
offender, required to register with the county sheriff or their county of residence
pursuant to RCW 9A.44.130, then the sponsoring agency will reject the subject of
the check for residency to homeless encampment or eject the subject of the check
if that person is already a homeless encampment resident.
ii. The sponsoring agency shall immediately contact the Auburn police
department if the reason for rejection or ejection of an individual from the
homeless encampment is an active warrant, is due to the individual being a sex
offender required to register and/or if, in the opinion of the on-duty executive
committee member or the on-duty security staff, the rejected/ejected person is a
potential threat to the community.
Page 53 of 109
Chapter 18.46A ACC, Temporary Uses Page 5 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
g. The sponsoring agency shall self-police and self-manage its residents and prohibit
alcohol, drugs, weapons, fighting, and abuse of any kind, littering or disturbing
neighbors while located on the property.
h. The sponsoring agency will appoint an executive committee member to serve on-
duty at all times to serve as a point of contact for city of Auburn police and will orient
the police as to how the security operates. The names of the on-duty executive
committee members will be posted daily in the security tent. The city shall provide
contact numbers of nonemergency personnel, which shall be posted at the security
tent.
4. Timing.
a. The maximum continuous duration of a homeless encampment shall be 90 days.
Citywide, the total maximum number of days homeless encampments may operate in
the city shall not exceed 180 days in any 24-month period (e.g., two homeless
encampments each operating 90 days (maximum 180 days total) may be allowed in a
24-month period).
b. No more than one homeless encampment may be located in the city at any time.
5. Health and Safety.
a. All temporary structures within the homeless encampment shall conform to all
building codes.
b. The homeless encampment shall conform to the following fire requirements:
i. Material used as roof covering and walls shall be of flame retardant material.
ii. There shall be no open fires for cooking or heating.
iii. No heating appliances within the individual tents are allowed unless the
appliance is designed and licensed for that purpose.
iv. No cooking appliances other than microwave appliances are allowed.
v. An adequate number and appropriate rating of fire extinguishers shall be
provided as approved by the fire department.
Page 54 of 109
Chapter 18.46A ACC, Temporary Uses Page 6 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
vi. Adequate access for fire and emergency medical apparatus shall be provided.
This shall be determined by the fire department.
vii. Adequate separation between tents and other structures shall be maintained
as determined by the fire department.
viii. Electrical service shall be in accordance with recognized and accepted
practice; electrical cords are not to be strung together and any cords used must be
approved for exterior use.
c. The sponsoring and host agencies shall permit inspections by Auburn staff and the
King County health department at reasonable times without prior notice for
compliance with the conditions of this permit.
6. Termination. If the sponsoring agency fails to take action against a resident who violates
the terms and conditions of this permit, it may result in immediate termination of the
permit. If the city learns of uncontrolled violence or acts of undisciplined violence by
residents of the encampment and the sponsoring agency has not adequately addressed
the situation, the temporary use permit may be immediately terminated. (Ord. 6565 § 4, 2015;
Ord. 6287 § 2, 2010; Ord. 6268 § 2, 2009.)
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6961, passed December 2, 2024.
Disclaimer: The city clerk’s office has the official version of the Auburn City Code. Users should
contact the city clerk’s office for ordinances passed subsequent to the ordinance cited above.
City Website: www.auburnwa.gov
Hosted by General Code.
Page 55 of 109
Chapter 18.52 ACC, Off-Street Parking and Loading Page 1 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6904, passed February 21, 2023.
Chapter 18.52
OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING
Sections:
18.52.005 Intent.
18.52.010 Applicability.
18.52.020 Number of off-street parking spaces required.
18.52.025 Disabled/handicapped parking requirements.
18.52.030 Reductions of the quantity of required parking.
18.52.040 Drive-through facilities.
18.52.050 Parking design, development, and maintenance standards.
18.52.065 Commercial vehicles in residential zones.
18.52.070 Repealed.
18.52.080 Repealed.
18.52.090 Repealed.
18.52.100 Repealed.
18.52.110 Fractional spaces.
18.52.120 Repealed.
18.52.125 Stacked parking.
18.52.130 Off-street loading space.
18.52.135 Alternate parking layouts.
18.52.020 Number of off-street parking spaces required.
Each principal use of the land, building, or structure shall provide the number of off-street parking spaces
required by this section. The following standards are not applicable in the DUC, downtown urban center zone;
refer to Chapter 18.29 ACC for specific requirements for that zone.
A. Parking Requirements by Land Use.
1. Minimum Number of Parking Spaces. Each land use shall provide the minimum number of off-street
parking spaces required by Table 18.52.020, except where a greater number of spaces are required
through a more specific approval process such as an administrative use permit or conditional use permit
approval.
2. Uses Not Listed. Where a use is not listed in Table 18.52.020, the planning director shall determine
the number of required parking and/or loading spaces. The planning director shall use the requirements in
Table 18.52.020 as a guide in determining the number of off-street parking spaces required based on the
similarity of uses or may consider a parking generation study.
Page 56 of 109
Chapter 18.52 ACC, Off-Street Parking and Loading Page 2 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6904, passed February 21, 2023.
B. Maximum Number of Parking Spaces. Except for required parking spaces for persons with disabilities,
spaces provided in park and ride lots operated by a public transit agency, spaces for carpools, spaces for
electric vehicle charging and spaces within structured parking with two or more levels, the maximum number
of parking spaces for nonresidential uses shall not exceed 125 percent of the minimum spaces required by
Table 18.52.020.
C. Measurement of Floor Area. In any case where Table 18.52.020 establishes a parking requirement based
on floor area in square feet (for example: two spaces per 1,000 square feet (sf) of floor area), the floor area
shall be construed to mean gross floor area (defined in ACC 18.04.430).
D. Use with Accessory Components. A single use with accessory components shall provide parking for the
primary use, and each component. For example, a hotel with a meeting room may be required to provide the
parking spaces required by Table 18.52.020 for a hotel (i.e., the guest rooms), and for a meeting room.
E. Obstruction. Removal of required parking or loading spaces from practical use by obstruction, erection of
buildings, or other actions as to reduce the parking or loading capacity or usefulness thereof below the
minimum requirements established in this chapter is prohibited.
F. Existing legally nonconforming gravel spaces. Up to six legally nonconforming gravel parking spaces may
be used to meet off-street parking requirement for residential development.
Table 18.52.020. Off-Street Parking Requirements by Land Use
Land Use Type: Unit of Measure:
Required Parking Rate
(spaces per unit of
measure):1
Residential Categories
Single-unit detached dwelling, adult family home, home
based daycares
Dwelling unit 2.00
Middle housing (2 to 6 units) See ACC 18.25 for Middle Housing parking requirements.
Apartments (7 or more units) Dwelling unit 1.000.75
Page 57 of 109
Chapter 18.52 ACC, Off-Street Parking and Loading Page 3 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6904, passed February 21, 2023.
Land Use Type: Unit of Measure:
Required Parking Rate
(spaces per unit of
measure):1
Mobile home dwellings12 Dwelling unit 2.00
Assisted living facilities 4 bedroomsPer unit 1.000.536, 7
Plus one space for each two
employees
Group living (includes permanent supportive housing,
boardinghouse)
4 bedrooms 1.00
Commercial Categories
Auto sales and motorcycle, new 1,000 sf of floor area 2.29
Auto sales and motorcycle, used 1,000 sf of floor area 3.08
Daycare centers Each 10 children in care 2.00
Eating and drinking establishments 1,000 square feet of floor area 8.00
Food retail stores and markets 1,000 square feet of floor area 5.00
Health and fitness clubs 1,000 square feet of floor area 5.00
Hotel or motel Guest room or rental unit 1.00
Mini-marts and gas stations 1,000 square feet of floor area 5.00
Mortuaries or funeral homes 25 square feet of floor space 0.25
Motor vehicle repair and services 1,000 square feet of floor area 2.50
Personal service shops 1,000 square feet of floor area 2.50
Retail commercial establishments, less than 15,000 square
feet of floor area
1,000 square feet of floor area 2.50
Page 58 of 109
Chapter 18.52 ACC, Off-Street Parking and Loading Page 4 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6904, passed February 21, 2023.
Land Use Type: Unit of Measure:
Required Parking Rate
(spaces per unit of
measure):1
Retail commercial establishments, greater than 15,000
square feet of floor area
1,000 square feet of floor area 4.00
Shopping centers4 1,000 square feet of floor area 4.00
Office Categories
Business and professional offices 1,000 square feet of floor area 2.00
Medical-dental clinic; urgent care 1,000 square feet of floor area 3.00
Manufacturing Processing and Warehousing
Categories
(See also ACC 18.52.020(D))
All manufacturing, industrial, and processing uses, except
the following:
1,000 square feet of floor area 1.00
Warehousing 2,000 square feet of floor area 1.00
Storage – Personal storage/mini-storage facilities 1,000 square feet of floor area3 0.10
Recreation, Education, Public Assembly Categories
Auditoriums, stadiums, and theaters 25 square feet of floor space 0.25
Commercial recreation facilities – Indoor, except for the
following:
1,000 square feet of floor area 5.00
Bowling alleys Lanes 5.00
Pool and billiard rooms Table 2.00
Skating rinks 1,000 square feet of floor area 5.00
Commercial recreation facilities – Outdoor 1,000 square feet of usable
recreational area
3.00
Page 59 of 109
Chapter 18.52 ACC, Off-Street Parking and Loading Page 5 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6904, passed February 21, 2023.
Land Use Type: Unit of Measure:
Required Parking Rate
(spaces per unit of
measure):1
Hospitals Bed 1.75
Library, museum 1,000 square feet of floor area 2.50
Meeting facility, public or private 25 square feet of floor space 0.25
Religious assembly 25 square feet of floor space 0.20
Schools (public and private)
Preschool schools Employee3 1.00
Elementary/middle schools Teaching station 1.20
Secondary (high) schools Student 0.40
College or university (including trade and business
schools)
Student 0.75
Studios (dance, martial arts, etc.) 1,000 square feet of floor area 5.00
Tennis/racquetball/handball or other sport courts Court 2.00
Each 300 sf of floor area for
accessory uses
1.00
Recreational uses not listed elsewhere Same as retail, based on size
Notes:
1 If the rate ends in an .5 and above the number of parking spaces is rounded up to the next full number to provide the total
number of parking spaces required.
12 Within mobile home parks, parking space shall not be allowed within the required setbacks. Guest parking shall be provided
within the development: five percent of total requirement.
2 Includes total on-site building square feet.
3 There shall be two visitor-parking stalls provided for each 10 required employee stalls.
4 Compliance with these standards is not required for a change of use within an existing building.
Page 60 of 109
Chapter 18.52 ACC, Off-Street Parking and Loading Page 6 of 6
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6904, passed February 21, 2023.
5 Employee and customer parking only.
6 Assisted living facilities located within one-quarter mile of a transit stop that receives transit service at least four times per
hour for twelve or more hours per day, the minimum residential parking requirement shall be 1.1 stall per employee and visitor.
7 Continuing care type assisted living facilities require 1.2 stalls per unit unless within one-quarter mile of a transit stop that
receives transit service at least four times per hour for twelve or more hours per day, in which case the parking minimum is 1.1
stalls per employees and visitors.
(Ord. 6419 § 5, 2012; Ord. 6388 § 1, 2011; Ord. 6167 § 4, 2008; Ord. 6140 § 2, 2007; Ord. 6071 § 3, 2007; Ord. 5777 § 1, 2003;
Ord. 5556 § 1, 2001; Ord. 5170 § 1, 1998; Ord. 4949 § 1, 1997; Ord. 4304 § 1(40), (41), 1988; Ord. 4229 § 2, 1987.)
Page 61 of 109
AUBURN
VALUES
S E R V I C E
ENVIRONMENT
E C O N O M Y
C H A R A C T E R
SUSTAINABILITY
W E L L N E S S
C E L E B R AT I O N
Department of Community Development
Planning Building Development Engineering Permit Center
Economic Development Code Enforcement
PLANNING SERVICES
SUPPORTIVE HOUSING TYPES
CODE UPDATE
PRESENTED BY
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
ALEXANDRIA TEAGUE, AICP,
PLANNING SERVICES MANAGER
FEBRUARY 4, 2025
Page 62 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
New definitions
18.04.793 "Religious organization" means
the federally protected practice of a
recognized religious assembly, school, or
institution that owns or controls real
property.
18.04.896.1 "Transitional housing" means a
supportive housing for persons or families
for up to two years for the purpose of
facilitating the movement of persons and
families into independent living.
Revised definitions
18.04.465 Homeless encampment
18.04.485 Host agency
18.04.828 Sponsoring agency
18.04.891 Supportive housing
PERMANENT SUPPORTIVE HOUSING
Page 63 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
Requirements
HB 1220 RCW 35.21.683
City code shall not prohibit permanent
supportive housing in any zones in which
residential dwelling units or hotels are
allowed.
How it is implemented
Revise ACC Table 18.07.020 “ Permitted Use
Table – Residential Zones”
Allow Permanent Supportive Housing is
proposed for all residential zones.
Revise ACC Table 18.23.030 "Permitted,
Administrative, Conditional and Prohibited
Uses by Zone, Commercial and Industrial
Zones”
Allow Permanent Supportive Housing as a
permitted use in the C-1 and C-2 zone and as
an administrative use in the M-1 and M-2
zones.
The use is still subject to the standards
contained in ACC 18.31.160.
PERMANENT SUPPORTIVE HOUSING
Page 64 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
Requirements
HB 1220 RCW 35.21.683
City code shall not prohibit transitional
housing in any zones in which residential
dwelling units or hotels are allowed.
How it is implemented
Revise ACC Table 18.07.020 “ Permitted Use Table – Residential Zones”
Allow Permanent Supportive Housing is
proposed for all residential zones.
Revise ACC Table 18.23.030 "Permitted,
Administrative, Conditional and Prohibited Uses by Zone, Commercial and Industrial
Zones”
Allow Permanent Supportive Housing as a permitted use in the C-1 and C-2 zone and as an administrative use in the M-1 and M-2
zones.
The use is still subject to the standards
contained in ACC 18.31.160.
Create new definition in Chapter 18.04 for
Transitional Housing.
TRANSITIONAL HOUSING
Page 65 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
Requirements
HB 1220 RCW 35.21.683
Reasonable occupancy, spacing, and intensity of use requirements may be imposed by ordinance on permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, indoor emergency housing, and indoor emergency shelters to protect public health and safety.
Any such requirements on occupancy, spacing, and intensity of use may not prevent the siting
of a sufficient number of permanent supportive housing, transitional housing,
indoor emergency housing, or indoor emergency shelters necessary to accommodate each city's projected need for such housing and shelter under RCW 36.70A.070(2)(a)(ii).
How it is implemented
Revise ACC 18.31.160 to apply for all
“transitional housing , permanent supportive housing, indoor emergency shelters, and indoor emergency housing” to apply reasonable occupancy, spacing, and intensity of use standards.
Remove provisions could prevent the siting of
a sufficient number of these facilities.
PERMANENT SUPPORTIVE & TRANSITIONAL HOUSING
SUPPLEMENTAL STANDARDS
Page 66 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
Requirements
HB 1220 RCW 35.21.683
Indoor emergency shelters and indoor
emergency housing must be allowed in any
zones in which hotels are allowed.
How it is implemented
Revise ACC Table 18.23.030
Allow Indoor Emergency Housing or Shelters
outright in the C-1 and C-2 zone, and
administratively in the M-1 and M-2 zones
INDOOR EMERGENCY HOUSING OR SHELTER
Page 67 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
Requirements
RCW 36.70A.635(4)(b)(iii) and (8)(b)
Any lots, parcels, and tracts designated with
critical areas or their buffers that are exempt
from the density requirements as provided in
subsection (8) of this section;
Portions of a lot, parcel, or tract designated
with critical areas designated under
RCW 36.70A.170 or their buffers as required
by RCW 36.70A.170 , except for critical aquifer
recharge areas where a single-family
detached house is an allowed use provided
that any requirements to maintain aquifer
recharge are met;
How it is implemented
Revise ACC 18.25.020
Staff is proposing to remove provision (4) of
ACC 18.25.020 “Middle Housing shall not be
used to justify alteration of a regulated
critical area per Chapter 16.10 ACC.”
All developments, including middle housing,
are currently subject to the standards
contained in Chapter 16.10 ACC.
MIDDLE HOUSING & CRITICAL AREAS
Page 68 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
Requirements
SB 5235 RCW 35A.21.314
Code city may not limit number of unrelated
persons occupying a household or dwelling
unit.
How it is implemented
Revise ACC 18.31.130(D)
Staff proposes to remove the limit of four
individual persons. Building and fire codes
will determine occupancy limits.
COMMUNAL HOUSING OCCUPANCY LIMITS
Page 69 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
Requirements
RCW 36.01.290
Hosting the homeless by religious
organizations—When authorized—
Requirements—Prohibitions on local
actions.
The state set standards and limitations on
local jurisdiction regulation of religious
organization’s ability host the homeless on
property owned or controlled by the
religious organization.
How it is implemented
Create new section ACC 18.31.165to allow
homeless encampment hosted by a religious
organization” as an accessory use to
religious institutions.
Modify existing temporary regulations
related to homeless encampments to
comply with the RCW.
Remove the Type II Temporary Use Permit
requirement for homeless encampments
hosted by non-religious organizations.
HOMELESS ENCAMPMENTS HOSTED BY
RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS
Page 70 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
Requirements
RCW 36.01.290
Hosting the homeless by religious
organizations—When authorized—
Requirements—Prohibitions on local
actions.
The state set standards and limitations on
local jurisdiction regulation of religious
organization’s ability host the homeless on
property owned or controlled by the
religious organization.
How it is implemented
Create new section ACC 18.31.165 “Specific
Type II temporary use permit – homeless
encampment hosted by a religious
organization”
Modify existing temporary regulations
related to homeless encampments to
comply with the RCW.
HOSTING THE HOMELESS BY
RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS
Page 71 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
Requirements
RCW 36.70A.620(2)
(2) No minimum residential parking requirements
if housing units specifically for seniors or people
with disabilities, if located within 1/4 mile of a
transit stop that receives transit service at least
4 times per hour for twelve or more hours per day
(3) market rate multifamily housing units that are
located within one-quarter mile of a transit stop
that receives transit service from at least one
route that provides service at least four times
per hour for twelve or more hours per day,
minimum residential parking requirements may
be no greater than one parking space per
bedroom or .75 space per unit.
How it is implemented
Revise Table 18.52.020 “Off-Street Parking
Requirements by Land Use”
(2) Instead of 1 parking space per 4 bedrooms
and 1 parking space per each two employees
change to 0.53 per unit (per ITE) and if near
high-capacity transit then 1.1 space per
employee/visitor.
(3) Allow .75 parking rate for those multifamily
housing units to comply with the statue
regardless of transit frequency.
MINIMUM RESIDENTIAL PARKING REQUIREMENTS
Page 72 of 109
AUBURN
VALUES
S E R V I C E
ENVIRONMENT
E C O N O M Y
C H A R A C T E R
SUSTAINABILITY
W E L L N E S S
C E L E B R AT I O N
Department of Community Development
Planning Building Development Engineering Permit Center
Economic Development Code Enforcement
THANK YOU!
Page 73 of 109
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject: Meeting Date:
ZOA24-0003 SEPA Code Update (Reed)
Staff is proposing to update the SEPA code (Chapter 16.06 ACC) to reflect
the categorical exemption threshold increases as stated in WAC 197-11-
800(d), to use the optional process consistent with WAC 197-11-335, and
planned action project review consistent with WAC 197-11-172.
February 19, 2025
Department: Attachments: Budget Impact:
Community Development ZOA24-0003 SEPA Code Text
Amendments Memo, Chapter
16.06 ACC 12.17.24 with track
changes, ZOA24-0003 SEPA
Code Update Presentation
Current Budget: $0
Proposed Revision: $0
Revised Budget: $0
Administrative Recommendation:
If the Planning Commission believes that the changes are ready to proceed, Staff will move forward
with noticing and a public hearing.
Background for Motion:
N/A
Background Summary:
Staff is proposing to amend Sections 16.06.020, 16.06.055 and 16.06.130 and add Sections
16.06.085 and 16.06.095 of the Auburn City Code to comply with Washington State’s new thresholds
of SEPA exemptions. The specific sections of the Environmental Review Procedures are outlined
below.
Councilmember: Staff: Jason Krum
Page 74 of 109
1
Memorandum
TO: Judi Roland, Chair, Planning Commission
Kent Sprague, Vice Chair
Planning Commission Members
FROM: Dinah Reed, Senior Planner
Dept. of Community Development
DATE: January 23, 2025
RE: City File No. ZOA24-0003 – SEPA Code Update Text Amendment
I. BACKGROUND & PURPOSE
The State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), enacted in 1971, was developed to recognize and evaluate
the environmental or public health impacts of construction, proposed regulations, policies, and private
projects. Today, SEPA often represents a duplicative and unnecessary requirement because state laws
have been passed over the years that require local jurisdictions to enact their own regulations focused on
environmental protection. Project review is subject to these additional regulations such as; the Growth
Management Act (GMA), Critical Areas regulations, Stormwater Management regulations, and the
Shoreline Management Act. These regulations capture the potential for adverse environmental impacts in
most cases without the need for SEPA review. The City of Auburn also requires development regulations
and standards such as Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA), geotechnical reports, and the International
Building Code, and other performance standards (in the Zoning Code) which are used to mitigate project
impacts.
The Washington State Legislature has recognized the need to reduce when SEPA is utilized, and in
response developed SEPA categorical exemptions to remove projects below a specified number of units
from being required to go under SEPA review. WAC 197-11-800 gives local jurisdictions the option to
adopt new thresholds for SEPA exemptions for minor new construction which in turn helps to streamline
the permitting process and lower costs to developers by allowing certain projects (particularly multiplex
residential units) to be built without triggering a SEPA review.
The City will retain the authority to require a SEPA review in cases when the responsible official
determines that a proposal has reasonable likelihood of causing more than a moderate adverse impact
on environmental quality.
Staff is proposing to amend Sections 16.06.020, 16.06.055 and 16.06.130 and add Sections 16.06.085
and 16.06.095 of the Auburn City Code to comply with Washington State’s new thresholds of SEPA
exemptions. The specific sections of the Environmental Review Procedures are outlined below.
II. SUMMARY OF CODE CHANGES
Chapter 16.06. Environmental Review Procedures
Page 75 of 109
2
Adoption by reference – Revise Section ACC 16.06.020
Additions to the list of sections adopted by refence include 197-11-172 Planned Actions – Project Review
and 197-11-355 Optional DNS process.
Categorical Exemptions – Revise Section ACC 16.06.055
The purpose of the revisions in this section is to adopt the exemption levels for minor new construction
flexible thresholds under WAC 197-11-800(1) to reflect the new State maximum exemption levels for the
Incorporated UGA of fully planning GMA counties as follows:
1. For construction or location of single-unit residential dwelling units (formerly known as single family
residential units) WAC 197-11-800(1): 30 dwelling units or less or 100 single-unit residential dwelling
units where each is less than 1,500 square feet.
2. For construction or location of Multifamily residential units (Middle Housing, Apartments and
Townhomes) in WAC 197-11-800(1)(d): 200 units or less.
3. For office, school, commercial, recreational, service or storage buildings in WAC 197-11-800(1):
buildings of 30,000 square feet or less and with associated parking facilities designed for 90 or less
automobiles.
4. For parking lots not associated with a structure in WAC 197-11-800(1): 90 or fewer automobile
parking spaces.
5. For fill or excavations in WAC 197-11-800(1): 1,000 cubic yards or less.
Planned Actions – Add Section ACC 16.06.085
The purpose of this new section is to add Planned Actions as described by RCW 43.21C.440 and adopt
by reference WAC 197-11-172.
Planned Actions are typically used for geographically larger area projects such as Sub-Area Plans or
Master Plans. The City of Auburn used the Planned Action process with its Downtown Plan. Included in
this process is a more comprehensive environmental review, an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS),
where alternatives are identified, and any impacts and thresholds are assessed for the entire area. For the
Downtown Plan these impacts were reviewed for higher density. Therefore, for example if a developer
proposed a 6-7 story building they do not need to go through a SEPA review because the new development
has essentially already been assessed by the EIS. Impacts such as traffic mitigation could still be
assessed through a TIA and utilities could be assessed through the preliminary civil reviews.
Optional Determination of Non-Significance Process -- Add Section ACC 16.06.095
The purpose of this new section is to comply with WAC 197-11-355 Optional DNS Process requirements.
The proposal is to add the Optional Determination of Non-Significance section to the Environmental code
which is already being used by the city. Type II, Type III, and Type IV Decisions per ACC 14.03.020 and
14.03.030 require a threshold determination under SEPA. When a project is deemed by the lead agency
that adverse environmental impacts are unlikely, the project may be processed using a single integrated
comment period to obtain comments on the Notice of Application and the threshold determination during
one comment period. The Notice states that it expects to issue a Determination of Non-Significance
(DNS) and that it may be the only opportunity to comment. Following close of the comment period the
agency (i.e. Auburn) would issue the formal DNS without a second comment period.
Substantive authority – Revise Section ACC 16.06.130
The revisions in this section comply with updated names of the Auburn Transportation Program and the
Auburn Capital Facilities Plan. The Energy Management Plan is no longer relevant and removed. Appendix
B has been replaced with “all Appendices and Supplementary Reports”.
Page 76 of 109
3
III. TEXT AMENDMENT
The text amendment is shown by strikeout/underline and is attached to this memo as Attachment 1.
A clean version of the text amendment is attached to this memo as Attachment 2.
IV. STAFF REQUEST
If the Planning Commission believes that the changes are ready to proceed, Staff will move forward with
noticing and a public hearing.
V. ATTACHMENTS
1 – ZOA24-0003 Text Amendment with track changes
2 – PowerPoint presentation
VI. GLOSSARY OF KEY TERMS (in alphabetical order)
1) 18.04.300 Density – “Density” is a measure of population, housing units, or building area related to land
area, and is expressed as a ratio, e.g., units per acres or square feet of lot area per unit. See ACC 18.02.065
for the methodology for calculating density.
Page 77 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. Chapter 16.06 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PROCEDURES Sections: 16.06.010 Authority. 16.06.020 Adoption by reference.
16.06.030 Additional definitions.
16.06.040 Responsible official designated.
16.06.050 Timing of environmental review.
16.06.055 Categorical exemptions.
16.06.060 Determination of categorical exemption.
16.06.065 Environmentally sensitive areas.
16.06.070 Environmental checklist required.
16.06.080 Environmental impact statement.
16.06.090 Public notice. 16.06.095 Optional Determination of Non-Significance (ODNS) Process 16.06.100 Internal circulation of environmental documents. 16.06.110 Timing of decision on nonexempt action.
16.06.120 Authority to condition or deny proposals. 16.06.130 Substantive authority.
16.06.200 City responsibilities as consulted agency.
16.06.210 Use of non-SEPA documents.
16.06.220 Environmental appeals.
16.06.230 Time limitation on appeals.
16.06.240 Fee to accompany notice of appeal.
16.06.250 Notice of hearing.
16.06.260 Hearing.
16.06.270 Testimony – Recording.
16.06.300 Substantial weight – Burden of proof.
16.06.310 Decision of the hearing examiner.
16.06.320 Dismissal of appeal.
16.06.330 City council review – Limitations for appeals. 16.06.340 Violation – Penalty. Prior legislation: Ords. 4009, 4054, 4351, 4504, 4792. Page 78 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 16.06.010 Authority. The ordinance codified in this chapter is adopted under the aut hority of the State Environmental Policy Act
(SEPA), RCW 43.21C.120, and the SEPA Rules, WAC 197-11 -904, including any amendments thereto. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.020 Adoption by reference. The following sections of Chapter 197-11 WAC, including any amendments thereto, are adopted by reference
as if fully set forth herein: WAC 197-11-040 Definitions. 197-11-050 Lead agency. 197-11-055 Timing of the SEPA process. 197-11-060 Content of environmental review. 197-11-070 Limitations on actions during SEPA process. 197-11-080 Incomplete or unavailable information. 197-11-090 Supporting documents. 197-11-100 Information required of applicants. 197-11-164 Planned actions – Definition and criteria. 197-11-172 Planned Actions – Project Review 197-11-300 Purpose of this part. 197-11-305 Categorical exemptions. 197-11-310 Threshold determination required. 197-11-315 Environmental checklist. 197-11-330 Threshold determination process. 197-11-335 Additional information. 197-11-340 Determination of nonsignificance (DNS). 197-11-350 Mitigated DNS. 197-11-355 197-11-360 Optional DNS process Page 79 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. Determination of significance (DS)/ initiation of scoping. 197-11-390 Effect of threshold determination. 197-11-400 Purpose of EIS. 197-11-402 General requirements. 197-11-405 EIS types. 197-11-406 EIS timing. 197-11-408 Scoping. 197-11-410 Expanded scoping. 197-11-420 EIS preparation. 197-11-425 Style and size. 197-11-430 Format. 197-11-435 Cover letter or memo. 197-11-440 EIS contents. 197-11-442 Contents of EIS on nonproject proposals. 197-11-443 EIS contents when prior nonproject EIS. 197-11-444 Elements of the environment. 197-11-448 Relationship of EIS to other considerations. 197-11-450 Cost-benefit analysis. 197-11-455 Issuance of DEIS. 197-11-460 Issuance of FEIS. 197-11-500 Purpose of this part. 197-11-502 Inviting comment. 197-11-504 Availability and cost of environmental documents. 197-11-508 SEPA register. 197-11-510 Public notice. 197-11-535 Public hearings and meetings. 197-11-545 Effect of no comment. 197-11-550 Specificity of comments. 197-11-560 FEIS response to comments. 197-11-570 Consulted agency costs to assist lead agency. Page 80 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 197-11-600 When to use existing environmental documents. 197-11-610 Use of NEPA documents. 197-11-620 Supplemental environmental impact statement – Procedures. 197-11-625 Addenda – Procedures. 197-11-630 Adoption – Procedures. 197-11-635 Incorporation by reference – Procedures. 197-11-640 Combining documents. 197-11-650 Purpose of this part. 197-11-655 Implementation. 197-11-660 Substantive authority and mitigation. 197-11-680 Appeals. 197-11-700 Definitions. 197-11-702 Act. 197-11-704 Action. 197-11-706 Addendum. 197-11-708 Adoption. 197-11-710 Affected tribe. 197-11-712 Affecting. 197-11-714 Agency. 197-11-716 Applicant. 197-11-718 Built environment. 197-11-720 Categorical exemption. 197-11-722 Consolidated appeal. 197-11-724 Consulted agency. 197-11-726 Cost-benefit analysis. 197-11-728 County/city. 197-11-730 Decision maker. 197-11-732 Department. 197-11-734 Determination of nonsignificance (DNS). 197-11-736 Determination of significance (DS). 197-11-738 EIS. 197-11-740 Environment. Page 81 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 197-11-742 Environmental checklist. 197-11-744 Environmental document. 197-11-746 Environmental review. 197-11-748 Environmentally sensitive area. 197-11-750 Expanded scoping. 197-11-752 Impacts. 197-11-754 Incorporation by reference. 197-11-756 Lands covered by water. 197-11-758 Lead agency. 197-11-760 License. 197-11-762 Local agency. 197-11-764 Major action. 197-11-766 Mitigated DNS. 197-11-768 Mitigation. 197-11-770 Natural environment. 197-11-772 NEPA. 197-11-774 Nonproject. 197-11-776 Phased review. 197-11-778 Preparation. 197-11-780 Private project. 197-11-782 Probable. 197-11-784 Proposal. 197-11-786 Reasonable alternative. 197-11-788 Responsible official. 197-11-790 SEPA. 197-11-792 Scope. 197-11-793 Scoping. 197-11-794 Significant. 197-11-796 State agency. 197-11-797 Threshold determination. 197-11-799 Underlying governmental action. 197-11-800 Categorical exemptions. 197-11-880 Emergencies. 197-11-890 Petitioning DOE to change exemptions. Page 82 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 197-11-900 Purpose of this part. 197-11-902 Agency SEPA policies. 197-11-916 Application to ongoing actions. 197-11-920 Agencies with environmental expertise. 197-11-922 Lead agency rules. 197-11-924 Determining the lead agency. 197-11-926 Lead agency for governmental proposals. 197-11-928 Lead agency for public and private proposals. 197-11-930 Lead agency for private projects with one agency with jurisdiction. 197-11-932 Lead agency for private projects requiring licenses from more than one agency, when one of the agencies is a county/city. 197-11-934 Lead agency for private projects requiring licenses from a local agency, not a county/city, and one or more state agencies. 197-11-936 Lead agency for private projects requiring licenses from more than one state agency. 197-11-938 Lead agencies for specific proposals. 197-11-940 Transfer of lead agency status to a state agency. 197-11-942 Agreements on lead agency status. 197-11-944 Agreements on division of lead agency duties. 197-11-946 DOE resolution of lead agency disputes. 197-11-948 Assumption of lead agency status. 197-11-960 Environmental checklist. 197-11-965 Adoption notice. 197-11-970 Determination of nonsignificance (DNS). 197-11-980 Determination of significance and scoping notice (DS). Page 83 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 197-11-985 Notice of assumption of lead agency status. 197-11-990 Notice of action. (Ord. 6382 § 1, 2011; Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.030 Additional definitions. In addition to those definitions contained within WAC 197 -11-700 through 197-11-799, the following words
and terms shall have the following meanings, unless the contex t indicates otherwise:
“Advisory body” means any body established by ordinance of the city council, whose responsibilities include
the review of development proposals for the purpose of making recommendations to the city council.
“Aquifer recharge areas” means areas which recharge aquifers that are a s ource of drinking water vulnerable to
contamination that would affect the portability of the water. These areas include: sole source aquifer recharge
areas and wellhead protection areas designated pursuant to the Fed eral Safe Drinking Water Act; areas
established for special protection pursuant to a ground wat er management program as described by Chapters
90.44, 90.48 and 90.54 RCW and Chapters 173-100 and 173 -200 WAC; and any other area meeting the
definition of “areas with a critical recharging effect on aquifers used for potable water” as described in Chapter
365-190 WAC and the Auburn comprehensive plan.
“Department” means any division, subdivision or organization al unit of the city established by ordinance,
rules, or order.
“Development” means the rezoning of property, the subdivision of land, the construction of buildings, or any
physical alteration of the land which is subject to city appr oval and to the requirements of SEPA.
“Fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas” means lands which are important for the maintenance of fish and
wildlife species in suitable habitats within the natural geog raphic distribution of the species. These areas
include: areas with which endangered, threatened and sensitive species have a primary association; habitats
and species of local importance; waters of the state; waters plant ed with game fish; and any other area meeting
the definition of “fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas ” as described in Chapter 365-190 WAC and the
Auburn comprehensive plan.
“Frequently flooded areas” means lands in the floodplain subject to a one percent or greater chance of flooding
in any given year. These areas include: streams, rivers, lakes, wet lands and any other area meeting the
definition of “frequently flooded areas” as described in Chapter 365-190 WAC and the Auburn comprehensive
plan.
Page 84 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. “Geologically hazardous areas” means areas that because of their suscept ibility to erosion, sliding, earthquake
or other geological events, are not suited to siting commercial , residential or industrial development consistent
with public health or safety concerns. These areas include:
1. Erosion hazard areas: areas identified by the USDA Soil Co nservation Service as having a severe rill
and inter-rill erosion hazard;
2. Landslide hazard areas: areas potentially subject to landsli des based on a combination of geologic,
topographic and hydrologic factors;
3. Seismic hazard areas: areas subject to severe risk or damage as a r esult of earthquake induced ground
shaking, slope failure, settlement, soil liquefaction or sur face faulting;
4. Other geologic hazard areas: areas subject to volcanic activity an d areas underlain by, adjacent to, or
affected by mine workings; and
5. Any other area meeting the definition of “geologically hazardo us areas” as described in Chapter 365-
190 WAC and the Auburn comprehensive plan.
“Hearing examiner” means the city hearing examiner as established b y Chapter 2.46 ACC.
“Ordinance” means an ordinance, resolution, or other procedure use d by the city to adopt regulatory
requirements.
“Project permit” or “project permit application” means any land u se or environmental permit or license
required from the city for a project action, including but no t limited to building permits, subdivisions, planned
unit developments, conditional uses, shoreline development permits, site plan review, permits or approvals
required by critical area ordinances, site specific rezones authorized by the comprehensive plan or a special
planning area plan or other subarea plan, but excluding the adopt ion or amendment of a comprehensive plan,
or a special area plan, subarea plan, or development regulations ex cept as otherwise specifically included in
this chapter.
“Regulations” includes regulations referenced in this chapter as wel l as development regulations as defined in
RCW 36.70A.030 of the Growth Management Act.
“Wetlands” means those areas that are inundated or saturated by surf ace or ground water at a frequency and
duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circum stances do support, a prevalence of vegetation
typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetl ands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs and
similar areas. Wetlands do not include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from nonwetland sites,
including, but not limited to, irrigation and drainage dit ches, grass-lined swales, canals, detention facilities,
wastewater treatment facilities, farm ponds and landscape amenities. However, wetlands do include those
artificial wetlands intentionally created from nonwetland areas created to mitigate conversion of wetlands, if
permitted and required by the county or city. Artificial wetlan ds created from nonwetland areas for purposes of
Page 85 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. wildlife enhancement, education, aesthetic or similar reasons, w hen not part of a compensatory (required)
mitigation project, are not included within the wetland definition. “SEPA” means Chapter 43.21C RCW.
“SEPA rules” means Chapter 197-11 WAC adopted by the Depart ment of Ecology. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.040 Responsible official designated. The director of the Auburn department of planning and develo pment, or designee, shall be the SEPA
responsible official for the city and shall carry out the duti es and functions of the city when it is acting as the
lead agency or as a consulted agency under SEPA and the SEPA rul es. (Ord. 6287 § 2, 2010; Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.050 Timing of environmental review. When a project permit application is filed with the city of Auburn the city shall analyze the permit’s
environmental impacts in one project review process as provided i n the Auburn City Code, hereinafter referred
to as “ACC,” Title 14. The environmental review shall be integ rated with and be processed concurrently with
the attendant project permit application. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.055 Categorical exemptions. A. The city of Auburn adopts by reference WAC 197-11-300 and 197-11-800. In addition, thereto, Auburn
establishes the following exempt levels for minor new const ruction under WAC 197-11-800(1) based on local
conditions: 1. For construction or location of single-unit residential dwelling units in WAC 197-11-800(1)(bd)(i): 2030 dwelling units or less or 100 single-unit residential dwelling units where each i s less than 1,500
square feet. 2. For construction or location of Multifamily residenti al units (Middle Housing, Apartments and
Townhomes) in WAC 197-11-800(1)(d)): 200 units or less. 23. For office, school, commercial, recreational, service or storage buildings in WAC 197-11-800(1)(bd)(iii): buildings of 12,00030,000 square feet or less and with associated parking facilities
designed for 40 90 or less automobiles.
Page 86 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 34. For parking lots not associated with a structure in WAC 197-11-800(1)(b)(ivd): 490 or fewer
automobile parking spaces. 45. For fill orand excavations in WAC 197-11-800(1)(bd)(v): 5001,000 cubic yards or less.
B. Whenever the city establishes new exempt levels under this section, it shall send them to the Department
of Ecology, Headquarters Office, Olympia, Washington under WA C 197-11-800(1)(c). (Ord. 5908 § 1, 2005; Ord. 5727 § 1, 2003.) 16.06.060 Determination of categorical exemption. A. The city department which receives an application for a prop osal, or initiates a proposal which is
potentially subject to the environmental review requirements of SEPA, shall request the responsible official or
the responsible official’s designee to make the following deter minations:
1. Whether the proposal is an “action” as defined by WAC 197-1 1-704; and
2. If the proposal is an “action,” whether it is categorically ex empt from the requirements of SEPA; and
3. If the proposal is a nonexempt action, whether appropriat e environmental review of the project has
been conducted or commenced.
B. The responsible official or the responsible official’s des ignee shall be responsible for making the final
decision required by this section.
C. The city recognizes that the list of categorical exemptions i ncluded in the SEPA rules cannot be relied
upon as the final determination of when a proposed project, regardless of its environmental impact, must
comply with SEPA and this chapter. Where the responsible of ficial determines that a proposal has a reasonable
likelihood of causing more than a moderate adverse impact on env ironmental quality, whether that impact is
direct, indirect or cumulative, environmental review under SEP A shall be conducted.
D. It is recognized that a particular development or land use, although otherwise consistent with city
regulations and policies, may create adverse impacts upon facilities , services, natural systems or the
surrounding area when aggregated with the impacts of prior or reasonably anticipated future developments.
The city shall evaluate such cumulative environmental impacts and mak e its environmental determinations and
substantive decisions accordingly. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) Page 87 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 16.06.065 Environmentally sensitive areas. A. The following areas of the environment are designated as en vironmentally sensitive areas pursuant to
RCW 36.70A.060 and WAC 197-11-908:
1. Aquifer recharge areas;
2. Fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas;
3. Frequently flooded areas;
4. Geologically hazardous areas; and
5. Wetlands.
B. Within each of these environmentally sensitive areas, the res ponsible official shall implement city codes,
ordinances, resolutions, plans and policies to conserve these areas and to preclude land uses and development
which cause significant adverse impacts to these areas.
C. The city’s “critical area maps” provides the general location o f environmentally sensitive areas within the
city and is adopted by this reference as if fully set forth i n this chapter. Site specific studies will be needed to
identify the precise location and to assess the characteristics of the environmentally sensitive area. Whenever
there is evidence of an environmentally sensitive area located withi n or in proximity to a nonexempt action, the
responsible official may require site specific studies to determi ne the location and characteristics of the
environmentally sensitive area, and potential mitigating measures. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.070 Environmental checklist required. A. Whenever a department determines that a proposal is a nonexemp t action for which appropriate
environmental review has not been conducted or commenced, the depar tment shall prepare or shall require the
action proponent to prepare and submit an environmental checkl ist. Upon completion or receipt of a completed
environmental checklist, the department shall immediately transm it the following to the responsible official or
the responsible official’s designee:
1. The original, signed copy of the environmental checklist; and
2. A copy of any completed application form in the departm ent’s possession relating to the proposal; and
3. A copy of any project description, conceptual plan or pl ot plan which may have been prepared or
submitted; and
4. Any additional information in the department’s posse ssion touching upon the environmental impacts
of the proposed action.
Page 88 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. B. The environmental review process shall begin when an en vironmental checklist application is received by
the responsible official. Incomplete applications shall be retur ned to the applicant for completion as directed by
the responsible official as provided in ACC Title 14. Checkl ist applications include the completed
environmental checklist form together with any site plans, st udies or other information needed to adequately
review the application.
C. A department initiating a nonexempt city action may request that the responsible official or the responsible
official’s designee assist the department in preparing the necess ary environmental checklist.
D. The provisions of this section shall not apply when the responsible official and the proponent of a
nonexempt action agree in writing that the proposal is likely to have significant adverse environmental
impacts, and further agree that an environmental impact statement (EIS) will be prepared.
E. The responsible official may determine that the city will co mplete all or a part of an environmental
checklist for a private proposal with its own staff, or may contract with one or more consultants to prepare or
assist in preparation of a checklist, and may charge and collect fees from the applicant to cover costs incurred
by the city in preparation of the checklist, if either of th e following circumstances exist:
1. The city has technical information on a question or questi ons that is unavailable to the applicant; or
2. The applicant has provided inaccurate or incomplete informati on on previous proposals or on
proposals currently under consideration.
F. If fees are to be collected, the applicant shall be advised of the estimated costs, and shall be required to
secure payment of such costs prior to the actual preparation of all or part of the environmental checklist. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.080 Environmental impact statement. A. Whenever the responsible official has issued a determination of significance for a nonexempt action, it
shall be the responsibility of the individual, corporation, agency or city department initiating or proposing the
action to prepare a draft EIS and a final EIS under the supervi sion of the responsible official. The proposing
individual, corporation, agency or department may contract wi th one or more consultants to prepare or assist in
the preparation of an EIS, subject to the approval of the r esponsible official. Consultants shall be selected
based on their expertise and knowledge related to the scoped envir onmental elements to be analyzed in the EIS
documents. Regardless of who is involved in the preparation of an EIS, it is the EIS of the city and the
responsible official shall be satisfied that it complies with this chapter, with SEPA and with the SEPA rules
before it is issued.
B. The responsible official may determine that the city will co mplete all or a part of an EIS for a private
proposal with its own staff, or may contract with one or m ore consultants to prepare or assist in preparation of
Page 89 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. an EIS, and may charge and collect fees from the applicant to cov er costs incurred by the city in preparation of
the EIS, if one or more of the following circumstances exist: 1. The city has technical information on a question or questi ons that is unavailable to the applicant;
2. The applicant has provided inaccurate or incomplete informati on on previous proposals or on
proposals currently under consideration;
3. The responsible official and the applicant agree that the cit y will be responsible for completing the EIS. C. If fees are to be collected, the applicant shall be advised of estimated costs, and shall be required to secure
payment of such costs prior to the actual preparation of the EIS. D. Prior to the preparation of an EIS the applicant and t he city shall enter into a written agreement that shall
at a minimum contain who is to prepare the EIS, its estimated cost, and estimated time frame to complete the
EIS process. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.085 Planned Actions A. The city of Auburn adopted by reference WAC 197-11-172. 16.06.090 Public notice. A. Whenever public notice is required under the SEPA rules, t he responsible official shall cause notice to be
given in the following manner:
1. By posting the subject property in accordance with the app licable provisions of Chapter 1.27 ACC
(site-specific proposals only).
B. Additional public notice may be provided for proposals having or potentially having unusually
widespread, unique or significant adverse impacts, or for oth er proposals, at the discretion of the responsible
official.
C. Where notice is required for a proposed action which has b een proposed or initiated by a party other than
the city or a city department, the cost of newspaper publicat ion of such notice or notices shall be borne by the
city with fees paid by the proponent or applicant. (Ord. 5811 § 4, 2003; Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.095 Optional Determination of Non-Significance Process Page 90 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. A. Projects that are , defined as Type II, Type III, and Type IV Decisions, per ACC 14.03.020 and ACC
14.03.030& 030 respectively, in which a threshold determinati on under SEPA is required, may be processed
under the Optional DNS process. This includes:
1.- Providing Notice of Application (NOA) in accordance with ACC 14.07 2. - Ensuring consistency with WAC 197-11-355 Optiona l DNS Process requirements B. If the city as lead agency and has a reasonable basis for determining, significant adverse environmental
impacts are unlikely, it may use a single integrated comment period to obtain comments on the Notice of
Application and the threshold determination for the proposal. If this process is used, a second comment period
will typically not be required at the time the DNS is issued. C. If the lead agency uses the optional DNS process specified in subsection B of this section, the lead agency
shall:
1. State on the first page of the Notice of Application that it expects to issue a DNS for the proposal,
and that:
(a) The optional DNS process is being used;
(b) This may be the only opportunity to comment on the en vironmental impacts of the
proposal;
(c) The proposal may include mitigation measures under applica ble codes, and the project
review process may incorporate or require mitigation measures regardless of whether an EIS
is prepared; and
(d) A copy of the subsequent threshold determination for th e specific proposal may be
obtained upon request (in addition, the lead agency may choose to maintain a gener al mailing
list for threshold determination distribution);
2. List in the Notice of Application the conditions being c onsidered to mitigate environmental
impacts, if a mitigated DNS is expected;
3. Comply with the requirements for a Notice of Application and public notice in ACC 14.07; and
public notice in RCW 36.70B.110; and
4. Send the Notice of Application and environmental checklist to: Page 91 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. (a) Agencies with jurisdiction, the Department of Ecology, affected tribes, and each local
agency or political subdivision whose public services would be changed as a result of
implementation of the proposal; and
(b) Anyone requesting a copy of the environmental checklist for the specific proposal (in
addition, the lead agency may choose to maintain a general mailing list for checklist distribution). D. If the lead agency indicates on the Notice of Application that a DNS is likely, an agency with jurisdiction
may assume lead agency status during the comment period on the notice of application (WAC 197-11-948.) E. The responsible official shall consider timely comments on the Notice of Application and either:
1. Issue a DNS or mitigated DNS with no comment period us ing the procedures in subsection F of this
section;
2. Issue a DNS or mitigated DNS with a comment period usin g the procedures in subsection F of this
section, if the lead agency determines a comment period is necessary; 3. Issue a DS; or
4. Require additional information or studies prior to mak ing a threshold determination. F. If a DNS or mitigated DNS is issued under subsection (E )(1) of this section, the lead agency shall send a copy of the DNS or mitigated DNS to the WA State Department of Ecology, agencies with jurisdiction, those who commented, and anyone requesting a copy. A copy of the enviro nmental checklist need not be
recirculated. 16.06.100 Internal circulation of environmental documents. Relevant environmental documents shall accompany proposals thr ough existing city project review processes.
The responsible official shall ensure that environmental document s are provided to decision makers in the
following manner:
Page 92 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. A. Where a nonelected city official is to make a final decision on a nonexempt action, the responsible official
shall provide that deciding official with a copy of a determin ation of nonsignificance (DNS) or a final EIS
upon issuance of the DNS or FEIS.
B. Where the planning commission or hearing examiner is to make a recommendation on a nonexempt action,
the responsible official shall transmit to the advisory body a copy of one of the following:
1. Environmental checklist;
2. Determination of nonsignificance (DNS);
3. Draft environmental impact statement (DEIS);
4. Final environmental impact statement (FEIS).
Transmittal of the appropriate environmental document shall eit her precede or accompany transmittal of a staff
report or staff recommendation on the proposal.
C. A final staff recommendation to the hearing examiner or ci ty council on a nonexempt major action should
normally be preceded by, or accompanied by, either a final DNS or an FEIS. (Ord. 6186 § 1, 2008; Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.110 Timing of decision on nonexempt action. A. For nonexempt actions, the procedural requirements of SEPA , the SEPA rules and this chapter shall be
completed prior to the city’s issuance of a license, permit or o ther approval, prior to the city committing to a
particular course of action, or prior to the city making a decis ion that would either have adverse environmental
impacts or limit the choice of reasonable alternatives.
B. A final decision on a nonexempt action for which a DNS has been issued or EIS has been required shall
not be made until after expiration of the environmental appeal period if not appealed or, if appealed, shall not
be made until the decision on the appeal becomes final. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.120 Authority to condition or deny proposals. A. The policies and goals set forth in and referenced by this chapter are supplementary to those in the existing
authorization of the city.
B. The city may attach conditions to a permit or approval fo r a proposal so long as:
Page 93 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 1. Such conditions are necessary to mitigate probable signi ficant adverse environmental impacts
identified in environmental documents prepared pursuant to t his chapter; and
2. Such conditions are in writing; and
3. The mitigation measures included in such conditions are r easonable and capable of being
accomplished; and
4. The city has considered whether other local, state, or federal mitigation measures applicable to the
proposal are sufficient to mitigate the identified impacts; and
5. Such conditions are based on one or more policies, plans , rules or regulations designated in ACC
16.06.130 as a basis for the exercise of substantive SEPA au thority under RCW 43.21C.060, and cited in
writing in the license, permit, ordinance or other decision d ocument.
C. The city may deny a permit or approval for a proposal o n the basis of SEPA so long as:
1. A finding is made that approving the proposal would result in probable significant adverse
environmental impacts that are identified in a final EIS or fi nal supplemental EIS prepared pursuant to
this chapter; and
2. A finding is made that there are no reasonable mitigation measures capable of being accomplished
that are sufficient to make the identified impact nonsignificant; and
3. The denial is based on one or more policies, plans, rules or regulations designated in ACC 16.06.130
as a basis for the exercise of substantive SEPA authority under RCW 43.21C.060, and cited in writing in
the license, permit, ordinance or other decision document.
D. If the lead agency determines, after the initial review of a project, that a proposed action could not comply
with adopted plans, policies, rules or regulations, and whe re the city has authority other than SEPA to deny the
proposal, the project can be denied outright without making a threshold determination, and shall be cited in
writing. Proposed actions which are subsequently modified, amended or deemed to be consistent with adopted
plans, policies, rules or regulations shall not receive final a pproval until the proposed action is in full
compliance with SEPA, the SEPA rules and this chapter.
E. Where the responsible official has issued a mitigated DNS, the decision maker shall not approve the
associated proposal until:
1. The proponent has modified the proposal, either through modification of plans and other application
materials or through a separate written instrument attached to the application, such that the mitigating
measures of the mitigated DNS become part of the proposal; or
2. The decision maker has incorporated the mitigating measures of the mitigated DNS into the license,
permit, ordinance or other approval, through conditions att ached pursuant to this chapter; or
Page 94 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 3. A combination of subdivisions 1 and 2 of this subs ection.
F. Where mitigating measures are agreed to under subsection (E)(1) of this section, or imposed under
subsection (E)(2) of this section, and where the proponent fails to implement such mitigating measures, the
city shall have the authority to revoke any permit, license or o ther approval granted on the basis of such
mitigating measures. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.130 Substantive authority. The city adopts by reference the following policies, plans, ru les and regulations, as may be amended, as a basis
for the exercise of substantive authority to approve, condit ion or deny proposed actions under RCW 43.21C.060 of SEPA: A. Auburn comprehensive plan and related reports and studies outlined in Appendix B; all Appendices and
Supplementary Reports B. Shoreline management master program;
C. Auburn City Code;
D. Auburn downtown plan;
E. Auburn capital improvements facilities plan; F. Six-year street planAuburn Transportation Program; G. Auburn Municipal Airport master plan;
H. Energy management plan. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.200 City responsibilities as consulted agency. In carrying out the city’s duties as a consulted agency, the r esponsible official shall request information from
any department potentially affected by or having expertise on a p roposal. Information timely received by the
responsible official in response to such request shall be trans mitted to the lead agency. The responsible official
may transmit such information by forwarding copies of any department responses or by consolidating all
department responses into a single city response. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) Page 95 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 16.06.210 Use of non-SEPA documents. A. If determined by the responsible official, existing plans , regulations, rules, or other laws that provide a
functionally equivalent analysis of the specific adverse impacts of a proposed project that has already occurred
and is available or will occur before action is taken on a propo sed project may be used to forego the
environmental analysis required under this title. If non-SEP A documents are used the responsible official shall
make appropriate findings and conclusions to support the us e of such documents.
B. If determined by the responsible official, existing plans , regulations, rules, or other laws that adequately
mitigate the projects specific adverse environmental impacts may be used, in lieu of SEPA mitigating
conditions, as long as the project approval is explicitly con ditioned on compliance with the requirements or
mitigation measures so that the specific adverse environmental imp acts are adequately mitigated. If non-SEPA
documents are used, the responsible official shall make appropri ate findings and conclusions to support the use
of such mitigation and to ensure compliance with the requiremen ts of the non-SEPA documents. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.220 Environmental appeals. Any person aggrieved of a final threshold determination of s ignificance, final determination of
nonsignificance, or inadequacy of a final EIS may file an appeal with the city hearing examiner. Appeal of
intermediate steps under SEPA (e.g., lead agency determination, scoping, draft EIS adequacy) shall not be
allowed. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.230 Time limitation on appeals. A written notice of appeal identifying the grounds for app eal must be filed with the city clerk, on forms
provided by the city clerk, within 14 days of the date of mai ling the final threshold determination of
significance, final determination of nonsignificance or final E IS. The city shall extend the appeal period for an
additional seven days for final mitigated determinations of n onsignificance and final EISs. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.240 Fee to accompany notice of appeal. An appeal fee as provided for in the city’s adopted fee schedule shall accompany the written notice of appeal
and be filed within the appeal period with the city clerk. No notice of appeal shall be accepted unless
accompanied by full payment of the appeal fee. This fee shall be ut ilized to cover publication costs, mailing,
and other costs directly associated with the appeal. (Ord. 6077 § 1, 2007; Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) Page 96 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 16.06.250 Notice of hearing. A notice of appeal timely filed shall be transmitted by the cit y clerk to the hearing examiner and the SEPA
responsible official. The hearing examiner shall determine the dat e, time, and place of a hearing to consider the
appeal of final EISs, and shall notify the parties thereof. Other appeal hearings shall be scheduled in
accordance with ACC 2.46.130. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.260 Hearing. A hearing upon an appeal shall be conducted by the hearing exami ner and, where applicable, the appeal
hearing shall be consolidated with any other hearing required o n the related proposed action as required in
ACC Title 14. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.270 Testimony – Recording. All testimony taken at any hearing shall be taken under oath. Th e hearing shall be recorded electronically. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.300 Substantial weight – Burden of proof. A threshold determination by the responsible official is ent itled to substantial weight. The burden shall be on
the appellant to establish that the determination is in error. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.310 Decision of the hearing examiner. A. Upon the basis of all of the information received in a hear ing, and all information relied upon by the
responsible official, the hearing examiner shall prepare a written decision, including findings of fact and
conclusions.
B. The hearing examiner may sustain, sustain with conditions , reverse, or remand to the responsible official
the threshold determination. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) Page 97 of 109
The Auburn City Code is current through Ordinance 6842, passed November 15, 2021. 16.06.320 Dismissal of appeal. The hearing examiner may summarily dismiss an appeal without hearing, when such appeal is determined by
the hearing examiner to be without merit on its face, frivolou s, or brought merely to impede a proposal or
secure a delay. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.330 City council review – Limitations for appeals. A. The decision of the hearing examiner on a threshold determin ation appeal may be appealed to the superior
court in the county in which the subject property is located, which appeal shall be in accordance with the
provisions of RCW 43.21C.060 and 43.21C.075. Any suc h appeal allowed by RCW 43.21C.060 and
43.21C.075 must be brought within the time limits specif ied in Chapter 2.46 ACC.
B. Such city council review shall be conducted on the record compiled by the hearing examiner, consistent
with other applicable law. (Ord. 6442 § 11, 2012; Ord. 6186 § 2, 2008; Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) 16.06.340 Violation – Penalty. Any violation of this chapter or of the standards, regulati ons or procedures adopted pursuant to this chapter
shall be enforced pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 1.25 ACC. (Ord. 4840 § 1, 1996.) Page 98 of 109
AUBURN
VALUES
S E R V I C E
ENVIRONMENT
E C O N O M Y
C H A R A C T E R
SUSTAINABILITY
W E L L N E S S
C E L E B R AT I O NDepartment of Community DevelopmentPlanning Building Development Engineering Permit CenterEconomic Development Code EnforcementPLANNING SERVICESSTATE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (SEPA) CODE UPDATEPRESENTED BY DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENTDINAH REED SENIOR PLANNERFEBRUARY 4, 2025Page 99 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATIONBACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION1.For construction or location of single-unit residential dwelling units (formerly known as single familyresidential units) WAC 197-11-800(1): 30 dwelling units orless or 100 single-unit residential dwellingunits where each is less than 1,500 square feet.2.For construction or location of Multifamily residential units (Middle Housing, Apartments and Townhomes)in WAC 197-11-800(1)(d): 200 units or less.3.For office, school, commercial, recreational, service or storage buildings in WAC 197-11-800(1): buildingsof 30,000 square feet or less and with associated parking facilities designed for 90 or less automobiles.4.For parking lots not associated with a structure in WAC 197-11-800(1): 90 or fewer automobile parkingspaces.5.For fill or excavations in WAC 197-11-800(1): 1,000 cubic yards or less.Categorical Exemptions– Revise Section ACC 16.06.055SUMMARY OF CODE CHANGESPage 105 of 109
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
AUBURN
VALUES
S E R V I C E
ENVIRONMENT
E C O N O M Y
C H A R A C T E R
SUSTAINABILITY
W E L L N E S S
C E L E B R AT I O NDepartment of Community DevelopmentPlanning Building Development Engineering Permit CenterEconomic Development Code EnforcementTHANK YOU!Page 109 of 109