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A. Purpose. Storefront block frontages are intended to create vibrant and active shopping and dining areas within Midtown that create visual interest for pedestrian traffic. Storefront block frontages include storefronts placed along the sidewalk edge with shops and business entries.

Figure 1. Storefront block frontage key standards

B. Standards. All development using the storefront block frontage type shall comply with the standards in Table 3.

Table 3. Storefront block frontage standards

Element

Standards

Additional Provisions and Examples

Ground Level

Floor to ceiling height

12' minimum

Commercial space depth

20' minimum

Applies to the entire width of the commercial space

Building placement

Buildings shall be placed at the edge of the adjacent sidewalk, or at the front property line if the sidewalk does not abut the property. Additional setbacks may be allowed for a wider sidewalk or where a public space (meeting requirements of SMC 14.214.420) is provided between the sidewalk and the building.

Building entrances

Primary building entrances shall face the street. For corner buildings, primary entrances for ground-level building corner uses may face either street or the street corner.

Façade transparency

At least 60% of the transparency area.

See SMC 14.214.320 for additional clarification on transparency standards.

Weather protection

• Weather protection over the sidewalk is required along at least 75% of the building’s façade, and it shall be a minimum of 5' deep (drip lines shall be at least that far from the face of the building).

• Additional standards:

 • Weather protection shall not be placed higher than the top of the ground floor.

 • Weather protection shall not interfere with existing street trees, utility poles, street signs, or extend beyond the edge of the sidewalk.

• Canopies and awnings meeting this standard shall be a permanent architectural element.

• The building’s architectural details shall not be concealed by awnings or canopies.

• Awning shapes should relate to the shape of the façade’s architectural elements.

• Transparent canopies are allowed.

• Under-canopy signs and lighting are encouraged.

Parking location

• New ground-level (surface or structured) parking between the building and the street is prohibited, including parking lot entries and driveways.

• Parking may be placed below, to the side, and/or behind buildings.

• Vehicular access shall comply with the provisions of the latest version of the City of Snohomish Design and Construction Standards adopted by City Council resolution.

• Primarily only applicable to Avenue D.

(Ord. 2425, 2022)