HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution 93-049-CCBOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
GRANT COUNTY, WASHINGTON
IN THE MATTER OF ADOPTING
THE GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE
LANDS AND CRITICAL AREAS
ORDINANCE, FOR COMPLIANCE
WITH RCW 36.70A.060 OF
THE GROWTH MANAGEMENT ACT
RESOLUTION NO. 93 -49 -CC
WHEREAS, The Board of County Commissioners of Grant
County has been advised by the Grant County Planning Commission
of the need for adoption of the Grant County Resource Lands and
Critical Areas Ordinance, to comply with RCW 36.70A.060 of the
Growth Management Act of 1990, and,
WHEREAS, the proposed ordinance was discussed at
Planning Commission meetings held on the following dates -
July 1, 1992; September 5, 1992; October 7, 1992; November 4,
1992; and March 3, 1993, and,
WHEREAS, The Board of County Commissioners, having
received the report from the Planning Commission, has given due
legal notice this matter would be discussed at a public hearing
to be held on May 18, 1993.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of
County Commissioners for Grant County, Washington, does, by this
Resolution adopt the Grant County Resource Lands and Critical
Areas Ordinance in compliance with RCW 36.70A.060 of the Growth
Management Act of 1990.
DONE THIS ��� DAY OF�. ,1993
CHAIRMAN
COMMISSIONER
COMMISSIONER
Constituting the Board of County Commissioners
of Grant County Washington
ATTEST: Q,,,eWZU
COOVfthe Board
County Ordinance # 93 -49 -CC
RESOURCE LANDS AND CRITICAL AREAS
DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE
SECTION 1.0
STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION, FINDINGS OF FACT, PURPOSE AND
OBJECTIVES
1.1 STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION
The legislature of the State of Washington has, in RCW 36.70A.060, mandated local
governments who plan under 36.70A.040 to adopt development regulations to ensure
the conservation of agricultural, forest and mineral resource lands and to adopt
development regulations precluding land uses or development that is incompatible
with critical areas designated under RCW 36.70A.170.
1.2 FINDINGS OF FACT
(1) Growth management, resource land conservation, and critical areas protection
share problems related to governmental costs and efficiency.
(2) Sprawl and the unwise development of resource lands or areas susceptible to
natural hazards may lead to inefficient use of limited public resources,
jeopardize environmental resource functions and values, subject persons and
property to unsafe conditions, and affect the perceived quality of life.
(3) It is more costly to remedy the loss of resource lands or critical areas than to
conserve and protect them from loss or degradation.
(4) The inherent economic, social and cultural values of resource lands and critical
areas should be considered in the development of strategies designed to
conserve and protect such lands.
(5) This ordinance implements the goals and policies of the Resource Lands and
Critical Areas Elements of the Comprehensive Plan.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 6/18/93
1.3 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES
It is the purpose of this ordinance to promote the public health, safety and general
welfare in specific.areas by provisions designed to:
(1) protect human life and health;
(2) further the public's interest in the conservation and wise use of our lands;
(3) assure the long term conservation of resource lands;
(4) preclude land uses and developments which are incompatible with critical
areas;
(5) classify and designate critical areas and resources lands; and
(6) to develop appropriate regulatory and non -regulatory actions in response.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 6/18/83 2
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
RESOURCE LANDS AND CRITICAL AREAS
DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE
SECTION 1.0
Statutory authorization, findings of fact, purpose and objectives
SECTION 2.0
Definitions
SECTION 3.0
Establishment of critical areas and resource lands: Provision for data
maps
SECTION 4.0
Interpretation of data maps
SECTION 5.0
Effect of data maps: Applicability
SECTION 6.0
General provisions
SECTION 7.0
Resource lands and critical area; standards for site-specific analysis;
development standards
SECTION 8.0
Warning and disclaimer of liability
SECTION 9.0
Non -conforming developments
SECTION 10.0
Administration
SECTION 11.0
Severability
SECTION 12.0
Effective date
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 6/18/93
3
SECTION 2.0
DEFINITIONS
2.1 DEFINITIONS
(1) Administrative Authority - means those public officials authorized by this
ordinance to administer the provisions and employ the procedures set forth in
this chapter.
(2) Agriculture Lands - lands that are not already characterized by urban growth
and are of long-term significance for the commercial production of
horticultural, viticultural, floricultural, dairy, apiary, vegetable, or animal
products or of berries, grain, hay, straw, turf, seed, Christmas trees not
subject to excise tax, or livestock.
1. Prime Farmland Soil is land with the best combination of physical and
chemical characteristics for production and is available for these uses as
determined by the Soil Conservation Service, U.S.D.A..
2. Unique Farmland Soil is land other than prime farmland that is used for
the production of specific high value food and fiber crops as determined
by the Soil Conservation Service, U.S.D.A..
3. Agricultural lands of Statewide Importance are those lands designated
by the State of Washington that is other than prime farmland but is
determined to have value as agricultural lands, as designated by the Soil
Conservation Service, U.S.D.A.
4. Rangeland is land that is used for the grazing of livestock, having a
high value for the production of forage vegetation or with a high
holding capacity of livestock as determined by the Soil Conservation
Service, U.S.D.A..
5. Pasture lands are those rangelands that are irrigated.
6. AUM - Animal units per Acre/ Month is a unit of measure defined by
the Soil Survey of Grant County as the amount of forage or feed
required to feed one animal unit (one cow, one horse,one mule, five
sheep, or five goats) for 30 days.
(3) Board of Adjustment - means the Board of Adjustment of Grant County,
Washington.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6/18/83 4
(4) Critical Areas - means one or a combination of wetlands, critical aquifer
recharge areas, frequently flooded areas or geologically hazardous areas, and
fish and wildlife habitat conservation area.
(5) Commercial Significance, Long Term - means the growing capacity,
productivity, and soil composition of the land for long-term commercial
production in consideration with the land's proximity to population areas and
the possibility of more intense uses of land.
(6) Commission, Planning Commission - means the Grant County Planning
Commission.
(7) Conservation Easement - means a reservation, buffer or encumbrance on a
particular piece of real property that precludes building improvement(s)
intended for human habitation or other structures or activities that would
frustrate the primary purpose of the easement as a buffer.
(8) Critical Aquifer Recharge Area - those areas that have been identified as
having a critical recharging effect on aquifer use for potable water in
community.water systems.
(9) County - means Grant County, Washington, a municipal corporation.
(10) Cultural Resource Area - those areas that have been identified as having lands,
sites and structures that have historical or archaeological significance.
(11) Data Maps - means that series of maps maintained by the Grant County
Planning Department for the purpose of graphically depicting the boundaries of
resource lands and critical areas.
(12) Development Application - means an application tendered under the provision
of the Grant County Zoning Ordinance, Platting and Subdivision Ordinance,
and the Short Plat and Short Subdivision Ordinance for a conditional use
permit, rezone or planned development,
to the Grant County Zoning Ordinance,
and the Short Plat and Short Subdivision
subdivision or short plat.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6118193
or an application submitted pursuant
Platting and Subdivision Ordinance,
Ordinance for a preliminary major
5
(13) Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas
1. Areas with which State and Federal endangered and threatened plant
and animal and fish species exist, or where State sensitive, candidate
and monitor plant and animal and fish species have a primary
association.
2. Habitats and species of local and regional importance which include a
seasonal range or habitat element with which a given species has a
primary association and which, if altered, may reduce the likelihood
that the species will maintain and reproduce over the long term. These
might include areas of high relative density or species richness,
breeding and rearing habitat, winter range and movement and/or
migration corridors. These might also include habitats that are of
limited availability or high vulnerability to alteration such as cliffs,
talus, in stream gravel deposits (salmon spawning beds, and wetlands
riparian areas. Species of local and regional concern, including those
fish and game species of local and regional concern, are those species
that are of local and regional concern due to their population status or
their sensitivity to habitat manipulation.
3. Naturally occurring ponds under twenty acres and their submerged
aquatic beds that provide fish or wildlife habitat. These do not include
ponds deliberately designed and created from dry sites such as canals,
detention facilities, waste -water treatment facilities, farm ponds,
temporary construction ponds (of less than three years duration) and
landscape amenities. However, naturally occurring ponds may include
those artificial ponds intentionally created from dry areas in order to
mitigate conversion of ponds, if permitted by a regulatory authority.
4. Lakes, ponds, streams and rivers planted with game fish, including fish
planted under the auspices of federal, state, local or tribal programs or
which supports priority fish species as identified by the Department of
Wildlife or the Department of Fisheries.
(14) Frequently Flooded Areas - means floodplains and other areas designated as
being within a one hundred year flood plain by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency's (FEMA) Federal Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM).
(15) Geologically Hazardous Areas - all lands within the Grant County
Comprehensive Plan study area will be classified as either: (1) known or
suspected risk, (2) no risk, or (3) risk unknown - data are not available to
determine the presence or absence of geological hazards.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6/19/93 6
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Geological hazards include:
1. Erosion Hazard - areas identified as having high or very high water
erosion hazard by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Soil
Conservation Service as supplied by the Soil Conservation Service area
office.
2. Landslide Hazard - areas potentially subject to landslides based upon
the following combination of geologic, topographic and hydrologic
factors.
a. Areas of historic failure including:
(i) Those areas delineated by the U.S. Department of
Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, as having
"severe" limitation for building site development.
(ii) Those areas mapped as quaternary slumps, earthflows,
mudflows, lahars, or landslides on maps published by the
United States Geological Survey or Department of
Natural Resources Division of Geology and Earth
Resources.
b. Areas with all three of the following characteristics:
(i) Slopes of fifteen (15) percent gradient or greater; and
(ii) Hillsides intersecting geologic contacts with a relatively
permeable sediment overlying a relatively impermeable
sediment or bedrock; and
(iii) Springs or groundwater seepage;
C. Areas that have shown movement during the Holocene Epoch or
which are underlain or covered by mass wastage debris of the
epoch;
d. Slopes that are parallel or sub -parallel to planes of weakness in
subsurface materials;
e. Areas with slopes that have gradients greater than eighty percent
subject to rock fall during seismic shaking;
f. Areas potentially unstable as a result of rapid stream incision,
stream bank erosion and undercutting by wave action;
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6118/83
7
g. Areas located in a canyon or an active alluvial fan presently or
potentially subject to a one percent or greater chance of
inundation by debris flows or catastrophic flooding;
h. Areas with slope gradients of forty percent or greater not
composed of consolidated rock. These will be of at least ten
feet of vertical relief.
3. Seismic Hazard areas - include areas subject to severe risk of damage
as a result to earthquake -induced ground shaking, slope failure,
settlement, soil liquefaction or surface faulting.
4. Other Geologic Events:
a. Volcanic hazards including areas subject to pyroclastic, lava
debris, mud flows or related flooding resulting from volcanic
activity.
(16) Ground waters - means all water that exists beneath the land surface or
beneath the bed of any stream, lake, or reservoir, or other body of surface
water.
(17) Lot of Record (Parcel of Record, Tract of Record) - a lot as designated on a
plat which has been approved and filed for record with the Auditor of Grant
County, Washington. Also, any parcel having a metes and bounds description
lying outside of any plat as the same existed pursuant to the records of the
Grant County Assessor's Office as of the effective date of this ordinance.
(18) Mine Hazard Area - areas underlain by, adjacent to, or affected by, mine
workings such as adits, gangways, tunnels, drifts or air shafts.
(19) Mineral Lands - lands that are not already characterized by urban growth and
are of long-term commercial significance for the extraction of aggregate and
mine resources, including: sand, gravel and valuable metallic substances.
(20) OAHP - means the Washington State Department of Community Development,
Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation.
(21) Qualified Professional - means an accredited or licensed professional with a
combination of education and experience in the discipline appropriate for the
subject matter that is being commented on; someone who would qualify as an
expert in their field.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - W18/93 8
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(22) Resource Lands - means agricultural , mineral, and forest lands that have
long-term commercial significance with regard to growing capacity,
productivity, and soil composition, in consideration with the land's proximity
to population areas, and the possibility of more intense use of the land.
(23) S.C.S. - means the United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation
Service.
(24) Species of Local Importance - means those species that are of local and
regional concern, including fish and wildlife species of local and regional
concern, due to their population status or their sensitivity to habitat
manipulation.
(25) U.S.D.A. - means the United States Department of Agriculture.
(26) Urban Growth - means activities that make intensive use of land for the
location of building, structures, and impermeable surfaces to such a degree as
to be incompatible with the primary use of such land for the production of
food, other agricultural products, or fiber, or the extraction of mineral
resources.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 6/18/93
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(27) Urban Growth, characterized by - means lands having urban growth on it, or
to land located in relationship to an area with urban growth on it as to be
appropriate for urban growth; or any and all incorporated areas.
(28) Wetlands
Wetlands are lands transitional between terrestrial and aquatic systems where
the water table is covered by shallow water. For the purpose of this
classification, wetlands must have one or more of the following attributes:
(1) at least periodically, the majority of the land supports predominantly
hydrophytes;
(2) the substrate is predominantly undrained hydric soil; and
(3) the substrate is non -soil and is saturated with water or covered by
shallow water continuously during the year.
(4) be naturally or artificially created and not exempt under Bureau of
Reclamation - Columbia Basin Project lands or agriculture related
activities.
(29) Wetland habitats are permanently flooded lands where surface waters are
permanent and often deep. For the purpose of this ordinance, wetland habitats
are limited to ponds and lakes less than twenty surface acres in size.
(30) Wetlands, Grant County classification system
A. Type 1 Wetlands
1. Wetlands providing habitat for federal or state threatened,
endangered plant and animal species and, plant and animal
species of concern.
2. Wetlands that meet the criteria of the Washington Natural
Heritage Program for pristine wetlands.
B. Type 2 Wetlands
1. Deep -water lakes or ponds between 1/4 acre and less than 20
acres in size.
2. Wetlands associated with perennial flowing waters less than 20
cubic feet per second.
3. All wetland systems classified as associated wetlands of waters
under the jurisdiction of the Grant County Shorelines Master
Program.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 6118/83
10
C. Type 3 Wetlands
1. Wetlands more than 1/4 acre in size but less than 1/4 acre of
open water.
2. Wetlands associated with intermittent flowing waters less than
20 cubic feet per second.
D. Type 4 Wetlands
1. Wetlands less than 1/4 acre in size.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6118193
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SECTION 3.0
ESTABLISHMENT OF CRITICAL AREAS AND NATURAL RESOURCES LANDS:
PROVISION FOR DATA MAPS
3.1 LIST OF CRITICAL AREAS
The incorporated area of the Grant County is hereby divided into the following
critical areas, where appropriate:
A. Wetlands
B. Critical aquifer recharge areas
C. Fish and wildlife conservation areas
D. Frequently flooded areas
E. Geologically hazardous areas
3.2 LIST OF RESOURCE LANDS
A. Agricultural Resource Lands
B. Mineral Resource Lands
C. Cultural Resource Areas
D. Forest Resource Lands
E. Where applicable, the incorporated areas of the County of Grant shall be
designated as lands adjacent to unincorporated and unique farmlands.
3.3 DATA MAPS
Resource lands and critical areas are hereby designated on a series of data maps
maintained at the Grant County Planning Department. These maps contain the best
available graphic depiction of resource lands and critical areas and will be
continuously updated as reliable data becomes available. These maps are for
information and illustrative purposes only and are not regulatory in nature.
The resource lands and critical areas data maps are intended to alert the development
community, appraisers, and current or prospective property owners of a potential
encounter with a use or development limiting factor based on the natural systems.
The presence of a critical area or resource designation on the data maps is sufficient
foundation for the designated county official (i.e., Director, Grant County Planning
Department) to order an analysis for the factor(s) identified prior to acceptance of a
development application as being complete and ready for processing under the Grant
County Zoning Ordinance, Platting and Subdivision Ordinance, and the Short Plat and
Short Subdivision Ordinance or any other regulatory authority - i.e. Shorelines
Management, S.E.P.A., etc..
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 608193 12
SECTION 4.0
INTERPRETATION OF DATA MAPS
4.1 INTERPRETATION OF DATA MAPS
The designated county official of Grant County is hereby declared the Administrator
of this ordinance for the purpose of interpreting data maps. An affected property
owner or other party with standing has a right to appeal the administrative
determination to the Grant County Planning Commission, using the same procedure
identified in the Washington State Planning Enabling Act for the changing of a zone
and amendment of. the Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The application for appeal is
made through the administrator of the ordinance, with the applicant supplying
supporting documentation as to the justification for the appeal, such as a notarized
affidavit from a qualified professional.
The data maps are to be used as aegg neral guide to the location and extent of resource
lands and critical areas. Resource lands and critical areas indicated on the data maps
are presumed to exist in the locations shown and are protected under all the
provisions of this chapter. The exact location of resource lands and critical areas
shall be determined by the applicant as a result of field investigations preformed by
qualified professionals using the definitions found in this chapter. All development
applications are required to show the boundary(s) of all resource lands and critical
areas on a scaled drawing prior to the development application being considered
"complete" for processing purposes.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6/18183 13
SECTION 5.0
EFFECT OF DATA MAPS: APPLICATION
5.1 EFFECT OF DATA MAPS
The conclusion by the administrative authority that a parcel of land or a part of parcel
of land that is the subject of a proposed development application is within the
boundary(s) of one or more critical areas or resource lands as shown on the data
maps, shall serve as cause for additional investigation and analysis to be conducted by
the applicant. The site specific analysis shall be limited to those resource lands and
critical areas indicated on the data maps. In the event of multiple designations, each
subject matter will be addressed independently and collectively for the purpose of
determining development limitations and appropriate mitigating measures.
5.2 APPLICABILITY
This ordinance applies to all real property within the corporate limits of Grant
County, Washington, as it is now configured or may, from time to time, be altered.
When any other chapter of the Grant County Zoning, Platting, Subdivision, Short Plat
or any other regulatory ordinance conflicts with this chapter, the more restrictive
provision will apply.
SECTION 6.0
GENERAL PROVISIONS
6.1 GENERAL PROVISIONS
A S.E.P.A. Checklist will be required prior to accepting a development application
tended pursuant to the Grant County Zoning Ordinance, Platting and Subdivision
Ordinance, the Short Plat and Short Subdivision Ordinance and any other regulatory
ordinances, the data maps shall be consulted for the purposes of determining whether
or not the property subject to the application is within any area shown as a resource
land or critical area. When such areas are encountered, the applicant will
immediately be notified and the type(s) of resource or critical areas disclosed.
Instructions shall be provided to the applicant on the type of evaluation and site-
specific analysis that will be required as a supplement to the application materials
necessary to bring the application up to a standard that can be characterized as
"complete" and eligible for processing.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6/18/93 14
If the subject property does not lie within or partly within the resource lands or
critical areas as depicted on the data maps, the application will be considered
complete, provided the application requirements of the ordinance governing the
process at issue are satisfied.
From the effective. data of this ordinance, no development application processed under
the Grant County Zoning Ordinance, Platting and Subdivision Ordinance, the Short
Plat and Short Subdivision Ordinance or any other regulatory ordinances shall be
approved without a written finding that this ordinance has been considered, additional
information has been assembled under this chapter or was not required, and that the
purpose and intent of this ordinance has been accorded substantial consideration.
The requirements set forth in Section 7 of this ordinance shall be considered minimum
requirements in the processing of development applications under the Grant County
Zoning Ordinance, Platting and Subdivision Ordinance, the Short Plat and Short
Subdivision Ordinance or any other regulatory ordinance and are to represent
standards in addition to those requirements set forth in those ordinances.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 6/19193 15
SECTION 7.0
RESOURCE LANDS AND CRITICAL AREAS; STANDARDS FOR
SITE-SPECIFIC ANALYSIS: DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
7.1 RESOURCE LANDS
A. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE LANDS
Preserve areas identified as productive farmlands to the maximum
extent possible.
a. Areas of Prime agricultural lands as designated by the
U.S.D.A.-S.C.S. "Land Evaluation for Irrigated Croplands of
Grant County" shall be designated "Exclusive Agriculture -
Irrigated" and shall be protected to the maximum extent possible
and protected from the encroachment of incompatible uses.
b. Unique agricultural lands as designated by the U.S.D.A.-S.C.S.
"Land Evaluation for Irrigated Croplands of Grant County" shall
be designated as "General Agriculture -Irrigated" and shall be
preserved to the extent practical until that time that demand for
higher density residential or other uses is established to warrant
the change.
C. Prime agricultural lands as designated by the U.S.D.A.-S.C.S.
"Land Evaluation for Dryland Cropland Areas of Grant County"
shall be designated as "Exclusive agriculture -Dry" and shall be
protected to the maximum extent possible and protected from
encroachment of incompatible uses.
d. Agricultural lands of Statewide Importance as designated by the
U.S.D.A.-S.C.S. "Land Evaluation for Dryland Cropland Areas
of Grant County" shall be designated as "General Agriculture -
Dry" and shall be preserved to the extent practical until that
time that demand for higher density residential or other uses is
established to warrant the change.
e. Rangeland areas as designated by the U.S.D.A.-S.C.S. Land
Evaluation in Groups 1 and 2, which have range production
ratings over 1000 pounds per acre, shall be designated as
"Exclusive Rangelands" and shall be protected to the maximum
extent possible and protected from the encroachment of
incompatible uses.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6/18183 16
f. Rangeland areas as designated by the U.S.D.A.-S.C.S. Land
Evaluation in Groups 3 through 8, which have range production
ratings of 350 to 999 pounds per acre shall be designated as
"General Rangelands" and shall be preserved to the extent
practical until that time that demand for higher density
residential or other uses is established to warrant the change.
g. Pasture lands and irrigated range areas as designated by the Soil
Survey for Grant County, Table 5, "Yields per Acre of Crops
and Pasture," with yields rated at 12 AUM or more, shall be
designated as "Exclusive Pasture Lands" and shall be protected
to the maximum extent possible and protected from the
encroachment of incompatible uses.
h. Pasture lands and irrigated range areas as designated by the Soil
Survey for Grant County, Table 5,"Yields per Acre of Crops
and Pasture," with yields rated between 7 and 11 AUM shall be
designated as "General Pasture Lands" and shall be preserved to
the extent practical until that time that demand for higher
density residential or other uses is established to warrant the
change.
i. In the event of a conflict between residential uses and the
normal agricultural activities of a preexisting agricultural use,
County support shall be in favor of the agricultural use to the
extent possible in acknowledgement of the Grant County Right
to Farm Ordinance Grant County Ordinance number 90 -92 -CC
adopted September 10, 1990.
2. Urban Growth adjacent to productive agriculture lands.
a. Site Analysis - May be required
b. Development Standards
1. Residential development occurring on lands immediately
adjacent to prime or unique farmlands shall observe a 60 -
foot front, 60 -foot rear yard setback and a 60 -foot
setback on side yards between the foundation of primary
residential structures and the property line of the
agricultural lands.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6/18/93 17
B. MINERAL RESOURCE LANDS
1. Protect areas identified as probable mineral resource areas from
encroaching incompatible uses.
a. Mineral resources shall have the highest use priority where their
removal is compatible with established uses.
b. Incompatible uses shall be discouraged from encroaching upon
mineral resource areas.
C. Sites used for the extraction of mineral resources shall be
reclaimed in a manner consistent with all applicable laws and
ordinances.
C. FOREST RESOURCE LANDS
[ Section Reserved - No Applicability ]
D. CULTURAL RESOURCE AREAS
1. Preserve areas identified to contain valuable historical or archaeological
sites of Federal, State or local significance.
a. When it appears that development activity will take place on or
near a known archaeological or historic site, the County will
determine exact site location and mitigate possible impacts.
1. For archaeological sites, the property owner or project
proponent will engage a professional archaeologist to
investigate and report to the County upon the location,
condition, extent of the site and any recommendations in
regard to treatment.
2. Based on the information contained in the written report
of the archaeologist, the County will condition project
approval in a manner to avoid impacts to the site.
Avoidance and conservation of the site is the preferred
treatment.
3. The County will forward to OAHP copies of the written
report or additional site forms prepared by the
professional archaeologist.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 6118193 18
4. The property owner or project proponent shall consult
with concerned tribes to solicit their comments on the
proposed measures to avoid, protect or mitigate the
effects of the proposed project upon the archaeological
site.
b. During the course of the development process, and particularly
during actual construction, should human remains or
archaeological resources be unexpectedly encountered, work
should be halted immediately. The project proponent shall
contact the appropriate Native American tribal organization(s) or
other appropriate group, the County and OAHP. This contact
shall initiate a consultation process for determining subsequent
actions.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6/78/83 19
7.2 CRITICAL AREAS
A. WETLANDS
1. Exempt Activities
a. Operation, maintenance and construction of Columbia Basin
Project related facilities, by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation as
they pertain to the unintentional creation of wetland sites,
namely those unintentional wetlands created after 1952 as a
result of the Columbia basin Irrigation Project.
b. Ongoing and existing farming, and ranching activities such as
grazing, plowing, seeding, cultivating, harvesting for the
production of food, or upland soil and water conservation
practices; maintenance of farm or stock ponds, irrigation
ditches, drainage ditches and farm roads in accordance with best
management practices to assure that wetlands and/or their
buffers are not adversely impacted.
C. Maintenance, repair, or operation of structures in existence on
the effective date of this amendment.
d. Maintenance, repair, operation or minor improvement of
existing public streets, highways, or roads within the right-of-
way.
e. Maintenance, repair, or operation of existing public utilities and
noxious weed control.
2. Regulated Activities
Filling, dredging, draining, vegetation removal and pollutant disposal
are regulated activities. Determination of regulated uses will be based
on one or more of the following criteria:
(1) No alternative sites
(2) Substantial public benefit
(3) Results in minimum alteration or impairment
(4) Results in an extraordinary hardship on the landowner
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 5118193 20
3. Wetland Development Permit and Procedure
a. If upon review of any permits, plans or processes that are under
the jurisdiction of Grant County it is determined that the project
or activity may result in wetlands being filled, dredged, drained,
polluted or vegetation removal, then a Wetland Development
Permit Application will be required to be filed with the County
prior to final actions.
b. Upon receipt of the Wetlands Development Permit Application,
the County will review the application and respond within
fifteen (15) days to determine whether the project is an exempt
or a regulated activity.
C. If the project is a regulated activity under this ordinance, then
the permit application will be submitted to the Grant County
Shoreline Review Board for review and within 45 days will
issue either a denial, approval and/or mitigative conditions.
d. The applicant may appeal either the permit application denial
and/or the mitigative conditions before the Grant County Board
of Commissioners.
4. Performance Standards
Development in wetlands will be subject to the following performance
standards.
a. Buffers
A wetland buffer zone is an area which provides sufficient space
to prevent unacceptable impact on the integrity and value of the
wetland. In terrestrial system, the buffer is a band of vegetation
outside of, but immediately adjacent to a wetland ecosystem.
Within the county, wetlands shall be required to provide the following
buffer areas:
1. Type 1 Wetlands - 50 feet
2. Type 2 Wetlands - 25 feet
3. Type 3 Wetlands - 20 feet
4. Type 4 Wetlands - 10 feet
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6/19/93 21
Note: To the extent possible, Type 1, 2, 3, and 4 wetlands and
their associated buffers should be encouraged to be designated as
open space only after public hearing.
b. Mitigation
Consultation with the agencies of expertise is strongly
encouraged for all development activities in wetlands, to insure
that adequate mitigative measures will be addressed.
"Mitigation" has been broadly defined to include the following
in progressive order of preferred consideration:
1. Avoiding the impact altogether by not taking an action or
parts of an action.
2. Minimizing impacts by limiting the degree of magnitude
of the action and its implementation.
3. Compensatory Mitigation is required when all efforts to
avoid and minimize wetland impacts have been exhausted
and may include one or all of the following activities:
(a) Restoration: To re-establish functional
characteristics and processes of a wetland which
have been diminished or lost by development
alterations or activities.
(b) Enhancement: Alteration of a wetland to improve
or increase one or more of the wetland functions,
as long as it does not increase the area of the
wetland.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 6118/93 22
(c) Creation: An activity which intentionally brings a
wetland into existence where it did not formerly
occur after public hearing.
Note: A "Mitigation Plan" is required when
compensatory mitigation is necessary for wetland
impacts. The Mitigation Plan must be completed and
approved by the Grant County Board of County
Commissioners prior to any construction activities and
must include the following requirements:
1. A detailed proposal of impacts on wetlands.
2. A detailed proposed plan to replace any loss of
wetlands or their functions.
3. Schedule of mitigation activities.
4. Standards to measure mitigation plan's success.
S. Means with which the planned mitigation is to be
monitored.
b. Details of a contingency plan to determine actions
taken if standards of mitigation are not met.
7. Operations and maintenance plan (if needed).
B. FREQUENTLY FLOODED AREAS
1. Site analysis - required only for the purpose of establishing a pre -
construction site elevation at the lot's highest point at the proposed
building foundation.
2. Development Standards
a. All developments must follow the provisions of the Grant
County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, Zoning
Ordinance, Platting and Subdivision Ordinance, the Short Plat
and Short Subdivision Ordinance and all other applicable
ordinances and codes as required and any amendments to these
ordinances.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6118/83 23
C. GEOLOGICALLY HAZARDOUS AREAS
1. Erosion Hazard
a. Site analysis - required to determine the exact location and
circumstances that might be expected to precipitate a significant
erosion event. The type and effectiveness of mitigating
measures available to safeguard the public safety and welfare
shall be addressed. The analysis shall also discuss the proposed
development's influence on the erosion hazard and suggest
appropriate design and development measures that might be
taken to minimize such hazards.
b. Development Standards
(i) Erosion hazard areas shall be avoided as locations for
building construction, roads or utility systems where
mitigation is not feasible.
(ii) Development activities or their support infrastructure
shall not be allowed that would directly or indirectly
worsen the erosion hazard identified in the site analysis.
2. landslide Hazard
a. Site analysis - required to identify and quantify geologic,
topographic and hydrologic factors that might contribute to slope
instability. The rate and extent of potential hazards to
development activity must be assessed and mitigation measures,
if any, evaluated. The.proposed development must be analyzed
in light of the hazards and effects represented by the landslide
exposure on proposed private and public investments.
Development operational factors should be included in the
analysis to account for the effects of residential landscape
irrigation storm water generation from impervious surfaces and
the influence of street conveyance on slope stability.
b. Development Standards
(i) Documented landslide hazard areas shall be avoided as
locations for building construction, roads or utility
systems where mitigation is not feasible.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6119/93 24
(ii) If the degree of hazard warrants some development
activity, post construction slope stabilization and
appropriately upgraded road construction specifications
shall be employed to eliminate as completely as
practicable, any public or private exposure to landslide
hazards or abnormal maintenance and/or repair costs.
3. Seismic Hazard
[Section reserved/No applicability]
4. Other Geologic Events
[Section reserved/No applicability]
D. FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT CONSERVATION AREAS
1. Site analysis - required to identify endangered, threatened, candidate,
monitor and sensitive and priority species, species and habitats of local
and regional importance and the nature and extent of their primary
association with the habitat conservation area. The investigation shall
include relative density and species richness, breeding, rearing and
spawning habitat, seasonal range dynamics and movement and/or
migration corridors. The analysis shall address the relative tolerance
by species of human activities. The development proposal shall be
evaluated in terms of its influence on the above wildlife factors and
recommended mitigative measures shall be required for any area that
would potentially degrade base -line populations and reproduction rates
over the long term.
2. Development Standards
a. No development approval shall be granted unless mitigation of
adverse effects can be provided that will ensure continuation of
base -line populations for all endangered, threatened, candidate,
monitor, sensitive and priority species.
b. Development may be allowed when only species and habitats of
local importance will suffer population declines or interruption
of migration routes provided that adequate regional populations
are maintained.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6/1 B/83 25
C. Development reviews shall include regional species occurrence
and movements and will avoid creating isolated sub -populations
where warranted.
E. AQUIFER RECHARGE AREAS
1. Site Analysis - required for the purpose of delineating the recharge
areas on a scaled development plan and providing detailed information
on the following items:
a. hydro -geological susceptibility to contamination and contaminant
loading potential.
b. Depth to ground water
C. hydraulic conductivity and gradient
d. soil permeability and contamination attenuation
e. a vadose zone analysis including permeability and attenuation
properties
f. an analysis of the recharge area's toleration for impervious
surfaces in terms of both aquifer recharge and the effect on
water quality degradation
g. a summary of the proposed development's effect on the recharge
area, concentrating on items "d" and "f" of this section
h. existing water quality analysis
2. Development Standards:
a. The site analysis will create a water quality baseline which will
serve as a minimum standard that shall not be degraded by
proposed development.
b. The creation of additional impervious surfaces shall be limited
to that amount described in the site analysis that will ensure
adequate aquifer recharge and water quality protection.
C. Development approvals shall ensure that all best management
practices are employed to avoid introducing pollutants into the
aquifer. This includes the complete collection and disposal of
storm water outside of the aquifer recharge area for all
development of impervious surfaces.
d. In addition, all development within Grant County must be in
compliance with all of the following requirements:
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 6118/83 26
1) The Grant County Potable Water Ordinance, Number
92 -44 -CC, passed by the Grant County Board of
Commissioners April 13, 1992.
2) Any and all applicable ground water management areas
(G.W.M.A.'s) regulations, as designated by the State of
Washington (including Chapter 173-100 WAC, Chapter
173-124 WAC, and Chapter 173-128A WAC, Chapter
173-130A WAC, Chapter 173-134A WAC, as well as
other sources, such as the provisions for other GWMAs
such as the Moses Lake G.W.M.A.).
3) State requirements regarding protection of upper aquifer
zones and ground water quality (Chapter 173-154 WAC
and Chapter 173-200 WAC, respectively).
4) Any and all applicable regulations set forth by any
Irrigation Districts regulated by the United States
Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation.
5) Any and all regulations set forth by the Washington State
Department of Health, the Grant County Health District
and the Washington State Department of Ecology.
7.2 PROVISIONS FOR SITE ANALYSIS
No site analysis required by Section 7 of this ordinance will be considered
complete without a detailed resume of the principal author(s) which disclose(s)
their technical training and experience and demonstrate their stature as a
qualified professional.
SECTION 8.0
WARNING AND DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY
8.1 WARNING AND DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY
The degree of hazard protection required by this ordinance is considered reasonable
for regulatory purposes and is based on scientific and engineering considerations.
Catastrophic natural disasters can, and will, occur on rare occasions. This ordinance
does not imply that land outside the critical areas or activities permitted within such
areas will be free from exposure or damage. This ordinance shall not create liability
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA ORAF7 ORDINANCE • 6/18193
27
on the part of Grant County, and officers or employees thereof, for any damages that
result from reliance on this ordinance or any administrative decision lawfully made
hereunder.
SECTION 9,0
NON -CONFORMING DEVELOPMENTS
9.1 NON -CONFORMING DEVELOPMENTS
Within the natural resource lands and critical areas established by this ordinance or
subsequent amendments thereto, there exists developments and lots of record which
were lawfully established or approved, but which would be prohibited, regulated or
restricted under the terms of this ordinance or future amendments. It is the intent of
this ordinance to permit these non -conformities to continue and to allow previously
approved developments to reach the development conclusion anticipated in their
approved applications. The lots of record within major subdivisions that have
received preliminary plat approval and short plats filed for record at the Grant County
Auditor's office will be considered building lots in all respect and exempt from the
provisions of this ordinance. Planned Developments, conditional use permits and
other land use applications approved prior to the effective date of this ordinance are
also exempt from this ordinance.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6/18/93 28
SECTION 10.0
ADMINISTRATION
10.1 ADMINISTRATION
The Planning Director is hereby directed to administer the provisions of this
ordinance and may appoint other employees as may be necessary to assist in its
administration. The Planning Director under direction of the County Commissioners
of Grant County shall adopt and revise, as required, such forms and instructions as
are necessary or appropriate to serve the public and carry out the provisions of this
ordinance.
SECTION 11.0
SEVERABILITY
11.1 SEVERABILITY
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, part or portion of this ordinance
is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent
jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this
ordinance or the application or the provision to other persons or circumstances.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 5118183 29
SECTION 1.2.0
EFFECTIVE DATE
12.1 EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance shall come into full force and effect on4�,,��! ,1993.
APPROVED:
C
, 4,Z
Con ti ting t e Board of Co ty Commissioners
ATTEST:
-"AJ (& /I A/rl,
Clerk oft d
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Prosecuting Attorney
Passed by the Board of County Commissioners: , 1993.
Filed with the County Auditor: , 1993.
Published: , 1993.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6118193 30
DATA MAP SOURCE
CRITICAL RESOURCE AREAS
Aquifer Recharge Areas:
Frequently Flooded Area:
Geologically Hazardous
Areas:
Wetlands:
Wildlife Habitat Areas:
WAC 173-124-040; WAC 173-124-060
WAC 173-128A-040; WAC 173-128A-050
United States Federal Emergency Management Agency - Flood
Insurance Rate Maps
Matrix generated from the United States Department of
Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service Grant County Soil
Survey maps and tables
United States Department of the Interior - National Wetlands
Inventory Maps
Wetlands Habitat
Fish Population/
Values and Related
Data
Other areas of
Wildlife Concern
United States Department of the
Interior, National Wetlands
Inventory Maps
Washington State Department of
Wildlife, Priority Habitat and
Species(PHS data) Maps
Washington State Department of
Wildlife/Department of Natural
Resources, Washington State
Department of
Fisheries, Washington Rivers
Inventory System(WARIS) Maps
- Washington State Department of
Wildlife, Priority Habitat and
Species(PHS data) Maps
United States Department of the
Interior, Spokane District
Resource Management Plan
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE - 6/18/93 31
RESOURCE LANDS
Agriculture Resource
Land:
Mineral Resource
Lands:
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation
Service, Land Evaluation for Irrigated Cropland Areas of Grant
County, Land Evaluation for Dryland Cropland Areas of Grant
County, Land Evaluation for Rangeland Areas of Grant County,
Soil Survey of Grant County.
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil. Conservation
Service, Soil Survey of Grant County
Cultural Resource Washington Department of Community Development, Office of
Areas: Archaeology and Historical Preservation, National Register of
Historic Places, State Register of Historic Places, and the
Archives of the DCD-OAHP.
GRANT COUNTY RESOURCE AND CRITICAL AREA DRAFT ORDINANCE • 6/1 B/83 32
BILLIE M. SUMRALL, DIRECTOR
May 25, 1993
AREA CODE 509-754-2011, EXT. 366
COUNTY COURTHOUSE
P. O. BOX 37
EPHRATA, WASHINGTON 98823
TO: U.S. Army - Corps of Engineers
U.S. Bureau of Land Management, Wenatchee
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Ephrata
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Grand Coulee
East -Columbia Basin Irrigation District
Quincy -Columbia Basin Irrigation District
South -Columbia Basin Irrigation District
USDA - Soil Conservation Service, Ephrata
USDA - Soil Conservation Service, Moses Lake
USDA - Soil Conservation Service, Quincy
Colville Confederated Tribes
Washington State Department of Community Development
Washington State Department of Community Development,
Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation
Washington State Department of Ecology, Olympia
Washington State Department of Ecology, Spokane
Washington State Department of Fisheries, Olympia
Washington State Department of Health, Spokane
Washington State Department of Natural Resources, Ellensburg
Washington State Department of Transportation, Wenatchee
Washington State Department of Wildlife, Ephrata
Grant County P.U.D., Ephrata
Grant County Assessor
Grant County Board of County Commissioners
Grant County Cooperative Extension Office
Grant County Fire Marshal
Grant County Fire District #3
Grant County Fire District #4
Grant County Fire District #5 & #15
Grant County Fire District #6
Grant County Fire District #7
Grant County Fire District #8
Grant County Fire District #10
Grant County Fire District #11
Grant County -Fire District #12
Grant County Fire District #13
Grant County Fire District #14
Grant County Health District
Grant County Prosecuting Attorney's Office
Grant County Noxious Weed Control Board
Grant County Port District #1, Quincy
Grant County Port District #2, Royal City
Grant County Port District #3, Mattawa
Grant County Port District #4, Coulee City
Grant County Port District #5, Hartline
Grant County Port District #6, Wilson Creek
Grant County Port District
#7,
Grant County Port District
#8,
Grant County Port District
#9,
Grant County Port District
#10,
Black Sands Irrigation District
Moses
Lake Irrigation District
Town
of
Coulee City
Town
of
Coulee Dam
Town
of
Electric City
City
of
Ephrata
Town
of
George
City
of
Grand Coulee
Town
of
Hartline
Town
of
Krupp / Marlin
Town
of
Mattawa
City
of
Moses Lake
City
of
Quincy
Town
of
Royal City
City
of
Soap Lake
Town
of
Warden
Town
of
Wilson Creek
FROM: Kenn Hamm
Grant County
Grant County
P.O. Box 37
Ephrata, WA
Grand Coulee
Warden
Ephrata
Moses Lake
Planning Department
Courthouse
98823
RE: DETERMINATION OF NON -SIGNIFICANCE
Grant County has issued a Determination of Non -Significance
(DNS) under the State Environmental policy Act (SEPA) rules
(Chapter 197-11 WAC) for the following project:
Grant County
Resource Land and Critical Areas
Development ordinance
After Review of a completed environmental checklist, feedback
from agencies by SEPA review and other information on file with
the County, Grant County has determined that this proposal will
not have a probable significant adverse environmental impact.
You are asked to submit any comments you may have by
, 1993, to the Grant County Planning Department at
the above address. thank you for your cooperation in this regard.
GRANT COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST ,
RCW 197.11-960 Environmental checklist. `
Purpose of Checklist:
The State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), chapter 43.21C RCW, requires all governmental agencies to
consider the environmental impacts of a proposal before making decisions. An environmental impact statement
(EIS) must be prepared for all proposals with probable significant adverse impacts on the quality of the environment.
The purpose of this checklist is to provide information to help you and the agency identify impacts from your
proposal (and to reduce or avoid impacts from the proposal, if it can be done) and to help the agency decide whether
an EIS is required.
Instructions for Applicants:
This environmental checklist asks you to describe some basic information about your proposal. Governmental
agencies use this checklist to determine whether the environmental impacts of your proposal are significant,
requiring preparation of an EIS. Answer the questions briefly, with the most precise information known, or give
the best description you can.
You must answer each question accurately and carefully, to the best of your knowledge. In most cases, you
should be able to answer the questions from your own observations or project plans without the need to hire experts.
If you really do not know the answer, or if a question does not apply to your proposal, write "do not know" or
"does not apply." Complete answers to the questions now may avoid unnecessary delays later.
Some questions ask about government regulations, such as zoning, shoreline, and landmark designations.
Answer these questions if you can. If you have problems, the governmental agencies can assist you.
The checklist questions apply to all parts of your proposal, even if you plan to do them over a period of time
or on different parcels of land. Attach any additional information that will help describe your proposal or its
environmental effects. The agency to which you submit this checklist may ask you to explain your answers or
provide additional information reasonably related to determining if there may be significant adverse impact.
Use of checklist for non project proposals:
Complete this checklist for nonproject proposals, even though questions may be answered "does not apply."
IN ADDITION, complete the SUPPLEMENTAL SHEET FOR NONPROJECT ACTIONS (PART D)
For nonproject actions, the references in the checklist to the words "project," "applicant," and "property or site"
should be read as "proposal," "proposer," and "affected geographic area," respectively.
A. BACKGROUND
1. Name of proposed project, if applicable:
Grant County Resource Lands and Critical Areas Development Ordinance
2. Name of Applicant:
Grant County
SEPA Rules
Part Eleven -197-11-960
4. Date checklistRregared:
September 4, 1992
5. Agency requesting checklist:
Grant County
6. Proposed timid or schedule (including phasing, if applicable):
Public Hearing by Planning Commission scheduled 10/7/92; County Commissioner approval to follow;
estimate adoption approximately 11/15/1992.
7. Do you have any plans for future additions, expansion, or further additions, expansion, or further activity
related to or connected with this proposal? If yes explain.
This proposed ordinance is an interim ordinance, so there may be some amendments made when incorporated
into the Comprehensive Plan, approximately 7/94.
8. List any environmental information you know that has been prepared, or will be prepared, directly related
to this proposal.
The nature of this proposal is such that environmental information is exactly what is portrayed in this
proposal.
9. Do you know whether agplications are pending for governmental approvals of other proposals directly
affecting the property covered by your proposal? If yes explain.
Again, the Planning Conunission and Board of Conunissioners of Grant county have yet to adopt this
ordinance.
10. List any government approvals or permits that will be needed for your proposal, if known.
See 9.
2
SEPA Rules
Part Eleven -197-11-964
11. Give brief, complete description of Your proposal, including the proposed uses and the size of the Project
and site. There are several questions later in this checklist that ask you to describe certain aspects of your
proposal. You do not need to repeat those answers on this pace.
This ordinance is intended to comply with the growth Management Act RCW 36.70A, to conserve resource
areas and to protect critical areas from land uses determined to be incompatible or potentially detrimental
through mitigation of any environmental concerns.
12. Location of the proposal. Give sufficient information for a person to understand the precise location of
Your proposed Project, including a street address, if any, and section, township, and range if known. If a
proposal would occur over a range of area, provide the range or boundaries of the site(s). Provide a legal
description, site plan, vicinity map, and topographic map, if reasonably available. While you should submit
any plans Le
.guired by the agency, you are not required to duplicate mans or detailed Plans submitted with
any permit applications related to this checklist.
This proposal will be in effect for all non -municipal lands within the corporate limits of the County of Grant.
TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT
B. ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS
1. EARTH
a. General description of the site (circle one): flat, rolling, hilly, steep slopes, mountains, other
Grant County contains all above descriptions to some extent.
b. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate percent slope)?
Greater than 70% (cliffs)
c. What general types of soils are found on the site (for example, clay, sand, gravel, peat, muck)? If you
know the classification of agricultural soils, specify them and note any prime farmland.
There are 189 soil types listed for Grant County, of all types of loams, sands, clays, silts
and the like. There are also areas of both prime and unique farmland.
d. Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the immediate vicinity? If so describe.
Some soils in the county would be considered unstable, especially in the coulees.
e. Describe the purpose, type, and approximate quantities of any filling or grading proposed. Indicate
source of fill.
Not applicable.
SEPA Rules
Part Eleven -197-I1-960
f. Could erosion occur as a result of clearing, construction, or use? If so, generally describe.
No
g. About what percent of the site will be covered with impervious surfaces after project construction (for
example, asphalt or buildings?)
Not applicable.
h. Proposed measures to reduce or control erosion, or other impacts to the earth, if any:
Not Applicable.
2. AIR
a. What types of emissions to the air would result from the proposal (i.e., dust, automobile odors,
industrial wood smoke) during construction and when the project is completed? If any, generally
describe and give approximate quantities if known.
None.
b. Are there any off-site sources of emissions or odor that may affect your proposal? If so, generally
describe.
Not applicable.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to air, if any:
Not Applicable
3. WATER
a. Surface:
1) Is there any surface water body on or in the immediate vicinity of the site (including year-round and
seasonal streams, saltwater, lakes, ponds, wetlands)? If yes, describe type and provide names. If
appropriate, state what stream or river it flows into.
There are many dozens of water bodies in Grant County, including but not limited to:
Columbia River, Soap Lake, Lake Lenore and Blue Lake.
2) Will the project require any work over, in, or adiacent to (within 200 feet) the described waters?
If yes, please describe and attach available plans.
Indirectly, yes, but mostly as a protection measure, rather than as construction.
4
SEPA Rules
Part Eleven -197-11-960
3) Estimate the amount of fill and dredge material that would be placed in or removed from surface
water or wetlands and indicate the area of the site that would be affected. Indicate the source of
fill material.
None.
4) Will the proposal require surface water withdrawals or diversions`? Give general description,
purpose, and approximate quantities if known.
No.
5) Does the proposal lie within a L00 -year floodplain? If so, note location on the site plan.
There are several areas within a 100 -year floodplain and are addressed in the ordinance.
6) Does the proposal involve any discharges of waste materials to surface waters? If so, describe the
type of waste and anticipated volume of discharge.
No.
b. Ground:
1) Will ground water be withdrawn, or will water be discharged to ground water? Give general
description, purpose, and approximate quantities if known.
No.
2) Describe waste material that will be discharged into the ground from septic tanks or other sources,
if any (for example: Domestic sewage; industrial, containing the following chemicals...; agricultural;
etc.). Describe the general size of the system, the number of such systems, the number of houses
to be served (if applicable), or the number of animals or humans the system(s) are expected to serve.
Not Applicable.
c. Water Runoff (including storm water):
1) Describe the source of runoff (including storm water) and method of collection and disposal, if
any (include quantities, if known). Where will this water flow? Will this water flow into other
waters? If so, describe.
Not Applicable.
5
SEPA Rules
Part Eleven- 197-11-960
2) Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so, generally describe.
Not Applicable.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground, and runoff water 'impacts, if any:
The ordinance addresses the need for site analyses and refers to previously adopted state
and federal regulations that address the concern of wastewater management.
4. PLANTS
a. Check or circle types of vegetation found on the site:
x deciduous tree: alder, maple, aspen, other
x evergreen tree: fir, cedar, pine, other
x shrubs
x grass
x pasture
x crop or grain
x wet soil plants: Cattail, buttercup, bullrush, skunk cabbage, other
x water plants: water lily, eelgrass, milfoil, other
x other types of vegetation
b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered?
None.
c. List threatened or endangered species known to be on or near the site.
The USDI - $LM Spokane District Resource Management plan has identified species in
the County.
d. Proposed landscaping, use of native plants, or other measures to preserve or enhance vegetation on
the site, if any:
Not Applicable.
6
SEPA Rules
Part Eleven -197-11-960
5. ANIMALS
a. Circle any birds and animals which have been observed on or near the site or are known to be on or
near the site:
Birds: hawk, heron, eagle, songbirds, other: ..all ...............................................
Mammals: deer, bear, elk, beaver, other: ..deer, beaver, others ..........................................
Fish: bass, salmon, trout, herring, shellfish, other: ..salmon, trout, bass, others .......................
b. List any threatened or endangered species known to be on or near the site.
Bald Eagle, Ferruginous Hawk and White Pelican
c. Is the site part of a migration route? If so, explain.
Yes, the Pacific Flyway is on site.
d. Proposed treasures to preserve or enhance wildlife, if any:
The ordinance addresses wildlife critical areas and requires mitigation to be sought when
these areas are found on a site.
6. ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES
a. What kinds of energy (electric, natural gas, oil, wood stove, solar) will be used to meet the completed
project's energy needs? Describe whether it will be used for heating, manufacturing, etc.
Not Applicable.
b. Would your project affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent properties? If so, generally
describe.
No.
c. What kinds of energy conservation features are included in the plans of this proposal? List other
proposed measures to reduce or control energy impacts, if any:
None.
7
U
SEPA Rules
Part Eleven -197-11-960
7. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
a. Are there any environmental health hazards, including exposure to toxic chemicals, risk of fire and
explosion, spill, or hazardous waste, that could occur as a result of this proposal`? If so, describe.
No.
1) Describe special emergency services that might be required.
None.
2) Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health hazards, if any:
The preservation and protection of resource lands and critical areas as addressed in the
ordinance would be considered as these types of measures.
b. Noise
1) What type of noise exist in the area which may affect your project (for example: traffic, equipment,
operation, other)?
Not Applicable.
2) What types and levels of noise would be created by or associated with the project on a short-term
or long-term basis (for example: traffic, construction, operation, other)? Indicate what hours noise
would come from the site.
None.
3) Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any:
None.
S. LAND AND SHORELINE USE
a. What is the current use of the site and adjacent properties?
Agriculture, rural, suburban, residential, light industrial, heavy industrial, recreation,
open space, public lands, range lands, and commercial.
b. Has the site been used for agriculture? If so, describe.
Yes - both irrigated and dryland agriculture and much still is.
c. Describe any structures on the site.
See 8 a. - structures related to those land uses are on site.
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d. Will any structure be demolished? If so, what.
No.
e. What is the current zoning classification of the site?
see 8 a. for the zones
f, What is the current comprehensive plan designation of the site?
see 8 a.
g. If applicable, what is the current shoreline master program designation of the site?
Rural, suburban, and conservancy.
h. Has any part of the site been classified as an "environmentally sensitive" area? If so, specify.
Not as of yet, by SEPA standards.
i. Approximately how many people would reside or work in the completed project?
Currently there are approximately 58,200 residences in the entire county, approximately
29,000 of which are non -municipal county residents.
j. Approximately how many people would the completed project displace.
None.
k. Proposed measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts, if any:
Not Applicable.
1. Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with existing and projected land uses and plans,
if any:
All phases of the Comprehensive Plan and subsequent development regulations must be
concurrent, and the City and County Plans must also.
9. HOUSING
a. Approximately how many units would be provided, if any? Indicate whether high, middle, or low-
income housing.
None.
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b. Approximately how many units, if any, would be eliminated? Indicate whether high, middle, or low
income housing.
None.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts, if any:
Not Applicable.
10, AESTHETICS
a. What is the tallest height of any proposed structures(s), not including antennas; what is the principal
exterior building material(s) proposed?
Not Applicable.
b. what views in the immediate vicinity would be altered or obstructed?
Not Applicable.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control aesthetic impacts, if any:
Not Applicable.
11. LIGHT AND GLARE
a. what type of light or glare will the proposal produce? What time of day would it mainly occur?
Not Applicable.
b. Could light or glare from the finished project be a safety hazard or interfere with views?
Not Applicable.
c. What existing off-site sources of light or glare may affect your proposal?
Not Applicable.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control light and glare impacts, if any:
Not Applicable.
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12. RECREATION
a. What designated and informal recreational opportunities are in the immediate vicinity?
Many, including boating, hunting, fishing, ORV use, birdwatching, hiking and swimming
b. Would the proposed project displace any existing recreational uses? If so, describe.
No.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts on recreation, including recreation opportunities to
be provided by the project or applicant, if any:
Not Applicable.
13. HISTORIC AND CULTURAL PRESERVATIONS
a. Are there any places or objects listed on, or proposed for, national, state, or local preservation registers
known to be on or next to the site? If so, generally describe.
Yes, the DCD - OAHP and Grant County are currently working together to provide
resource information for the County.
b. Generally describe any landmarks or evidence of historic, archaeological, scientific, or cultural
importance known to be on or next to the site.
There are many Historic Register buildings, cultural markers, indian sites, and other
cultural resources on site.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts, if any:
Mitigation, focusing on preservation of the resource are required as part the ordinance.
14. TRANSPORTATION
a. Identify public streets and highways serving the site, and describe proposed access to the existing street
system. Show on site plans, if any.
There are thousands of mules of county roads, several state highways, Interstate 90 and
U.S. Highway 2 serving the site.
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b. Is site currently served by public transit? If not, what is the approximate distance to the existing street
system. Show on site plans, if any.
No. Not Applicable.
c. How many parking spaces would the completed project have`? How many would the project eliminate?
Not Applicable.
d. Will the proposal require any new roads or streets, or improvements to existing roads or streets, not
including driveways? If so, generally describe (indicate whether public or private).
No.
e. Will the project use (or occur in the immediate vicinity of) water, rail, or air transportation? If so,
generally describe.
No.
f. How many vehicular trips per day would be generated by the completed project? If known, indicate
when peak volumes would occur.
None.
g. Proposed measures to reduce or control transportation impacts, if any:
Not Applicable.
15. PUBLIC SERVICES
a. Would the project result in an increased need for public services (for example: fire protection, police
protection, health care, schools, other)? If so, generally describe.
No.
b. Proposed measures to reduce or control direct impacts on public services, if any.
Not Applicable.
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16. UTILITIES
a. Circle utilities currently available at the site: electricity, natural gas, water, refuse service, telephone,
sanitary sewer, septic system, other.
All above utilities are available in various areas of Grant County.
b. Describe the utilities that are proposed for the project, the utility providing the service, and the general
construction activities on the site or in the immediate vicinity which might be needed.
Not Applicable.
c. SIGNATURE
The above answers are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that the lead
agency is relying on thein to make its decision.
Signature-...................................................................................................
DateSubmitted...............................................................................................
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TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT
D. SUPPLEMENTAL SHEET FOR NONPROJECT ACTIONS
(do not use this sheet for project actions)
Because these questions are very general, it may be helpful to read them in conjunction with the list
of the elements of the environment.
When answering these questions, be aware of the extent the proposal, or the types of activities likely
to result from the proposal, would affect the item at a greater intensity or at a faster rate than if the
proposal were not implemented. Respond briefly and in general terms.
1) How would the proposal be likely to increase discharge to water; emissions to air; production, storage,
or release of toxic or hazardous substances; or production of noise?
No.
Proposed measures to avoid or reduce such increases are:
Not Applicable.
2) How would the proposal be likely to affect plants, animals, fish, or marine life are:
It should enhance the welfare of all life in the County.
Proposed measures to protect or conserve plants, animals, fish, or marine life are:
Identification and mitigation of probable impacts to critical and resource areas in the
County.
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3. How would the proposal be likely to deplete energy or natural resources?
Not at all.
Proposed measures to protect such resources to avoid or reduce impacts are:
Through identification and mitigation of impacts.
4. How would the proposal be likely to use or affect environmentally sensitive areas or areas designated (or
eligible or under study) for governmental protection; such as parks, wilderness, wild and scenic rivers,
threatened or endangered species habitat, historic or cultural sites, wetlands, flood plains, or prime
farmlands?
The focus of the ordinance is to preserve and protect these areas, as directed by law.
(RCW 36.70A.)
Proposed measures to protect such resources or to avoid or reduce impacts are:
Through identification and mitigation of impacts.
5. How would the proposal be likely to affect land and shoreline use, including whether it would allow or
encourage land or shoreline uses incompatible with existing plans'?
Shoreline area impacts will be mitigated, thereby rendering compatible those incompatible
uses, if those uses are to exist.
Proposed measures to avoid or reduce shoreline and line use impacts are:
Identification and mitigation of impacts.
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6. How would the proposal be likely to increase demands on transportation or public services and utilities?
Not at all.
Proposed measures to reduce or respond to such demand(s) are:
Not Applicable.
7. identify, if possible, whether the proposal may conflict with local, state, or federal laws or requirements
for the protection of the environment.
Not Applicable. This ordinance does not conflict with any State or Federal Laws as
those laws take obvious precedence.
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