Depending upon what the modification consists of, special requirements may be initiated for compliance with the wetlands management ordinance. Upon classification by a qualified wetlands specialist, and if accepted by the City, the buffer may be reduced, depending upon the wetland's final classification. Details on classification and buffers are found in the wetland ordinance, section 18.08.070. Building, grading, filling, sanitary sewer permits, subdivisions, short plats, planned unit developments, site plan review, variances, and conditional use permits. Also, any activity which is not categorically exempt under the provisions of the State Environmental Policy Act is subject to wetland review.
Exemptions are available for certain types of activities within wetland buffers.
What if all of my property is wetland and buffer. The likelihood that all of your property is undevelopable because of wetlands is very small. Nonetheless, if you find yourself in this situation, you may request a variance from the requirements of the ordinance. The criteria are site specific and you must meet all of the criteria to qualify. The city encourages the preservation of unique natural features such as wetlands and, for certain types of developments, allows bonus densities and clustering options.