14.250.210 Regulations Specific to Utilities.
A. Where feasible, utility facilities shall be located in existing rights-of-way or in existing utility corridors.
B. Where feasible, utility lines and facilities outside of existing rights-of-way or utility corridors shall be located underground unless long-term environmental benefit is demonstrated through use of aerial utility lines.
C. Utility transmission and distribution infrastructure that cannot be located below ground or outside the shoreline jurisdiction shall be located as far landward as feasible to preserve public views.
D. Utility facilities shall avoid and minimize crossing of water bodies and wetlands to the greatest extent feasible.
E. Applications for installation of utility facilities shall include the following (at a minimum):
1. Reason the facility must be located in a shoreline area;
2. Alternative locations considered and reasons for their elimination;
3. Location of other utility facilities in the project vicinity;
4. Proposed method(s) of construction;
5. Plans for restoration of areas disturbed during construction; and
6. Plans for landscaping/screening.
F. Minor communication facilities may be allowed subject to a determination that significant shoreline views will not be obstructed or impaired.
G. Stream crossings for utilities shall:
1. Use the best available technology and practices to protect health, safety, and the environment;
2. Avoid critical habitat to the greatest extent feasible;
3. If crossing beneath a river or stream, utilities shall be designed to avoid river bed/stream bed mobilization and adverse environmental impacts in general. Such utility lines shall be placed in a sleeve or conduit to facilitate replacement without additional boring or excavation; and
4. Mitigate adverse impacts to shoreline ecological functions.
H. Banks and dikes where utility facilities enter or leave a body of water shall be restored to the extent feasible, shall be protected against erosion, and shall be maintained by the utility.
I. Stormwater and sewage outfalls may be permitted in shoreline environments in accordance with the substantive critical areas requirements of this chapter (SMC 14.250.330) and state and federal regulations.
J. Water intakes shall comply with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife fish screening criteria. (Ord. 2336, 2018)