Chapter 19.30 APPLICATIONS

(1) Project Permits. Except as provided in Subsection (2) below, no use, development or modification to a use or development, as those terms are defined by this Title, may be established, placed, performed, constructed, made or implemented, in whole or in part without the issuance of a project permit by the Reviewing Official.

(2) Exceptions to Obtaining Project Permits under This Title. The following development, activities and modifications to development may require project permits under Yakima County Code.

(a) Normal structural repair and maintenance as defined in the codes adopted by YCC Title 13;

(b) Physical changes to conforming structures or uses other than structural alterations as that term is defined by this Title;

(c) Rehabilitation of dwelling units when such rehabilitation does not expand the number of dwelling units nor physically expand the structure;

(d) Accessory structures and uses listed under Section 19.18.020 that otherwise meet the specific development standards and requirements of this Title, when the principal use is already established;

(e) Alteration to land, including grading and leveling, paving, stockpiling, and excavation, the amount of which does not exceed 500 cubic yards;

(f) Required site improvements, including all construction of private or public roads, construction of sewer, electric, telecommunications, storm water, and water utilities under an approved and valid development authorization, subdivision or binding site plan regulating such improvements; and

(g) New uses for a legally established multiple occupancy building provided that the use:

(i) Is consistent with the conditions of the decision approving the multiple occupancy building;

(ii) Establishes a Type 1 or 2 use that is allowed within the zoning district;

(iii) Establishes a use that does not require drive-through facilities; and

(iv) Required structural changes would meet minimum development standards of the zone.

(3) Project Permit-Issuance in Conjunction with Another Permit. If the Reviewing Official is authorized to review and issue a project permit under any other County code or ordinance applicable to the development, he may require issuance of the project permit under this Title to be issued only in conjunction with said other project permit.

(4) Notice to Applicant and Future Owners of Proximity to Designated Resource Lands.

(a) All plats, short plats, development permits, and building permits issued for development activities on, or within 500 feet of, lands designated by the Comprehensive Plan as agricultural lands, forest lands, or mineral resource lands, shall contain a notice that the subject property is within or near designated agricultural lands, forest lands, or mineral resource lands on which a variety of commercial activities may occur that are not compatible with residential development for certain periods of limited duration. The notice for mineral resource lands shall also inform that an application might be made for mining-related activities, including mining, extraction, washing, crushing, stockpiling, blasting, transporting, and recycling of minerals (RCW 36.70A.060(1)(b)).

(b) The notice shall also state that agricultural, forest and mining activities performed in accordance with County, state and federal laws are not subject to legal action as public nuisances.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.030 Application and Use Categories.

Actions and uses under this Title are grouped into categories, each with a corresponding review process as defined in YCC Section 16B.03.030. If an application does not meet minimum approval criteria or standards for the zone and this Title, or cannot be adequately conditioned at a particular location, it shall be denied. A project permit, other than a nonconforming use permit, may not be granted for a classified use in a zoning district from which it is specifically prohibited. Applications are categorized as follows:

(1) Type 1 Applications.

(a) The Administrative Official reviews applications subject to Type 1 review under the procedures of Section 19.30.090 and YCC Chapter 16B.03 for compliance with this Title.

(b) Applications requiring Type 1 review include:

(i) Boundary line adjustments;

(ii) Segregations within an approved binding site plan for commercial and industrial development;

(iii) Administrative modifications to existing or approved uses where authorized by this Title; and

(iv) Type 1 Permitted Uses shown on the Allowable Land Use Table 19.14-1 in Chapter 19.14, except when required to undergo Type 2 review under Subsection (1)(c) below. The Reviewing Official shall use the procedures in YCC Subsection 16B.03.030(1)(a), Sections 19.30.080 and 19.30.090 to review Type 1 Permitted Uses and associated site improvements for compliance with the provisions and standards of the zoning district in which they are located.

(i) All or part of the development, except for agricultural buildings, single-family dwellings and duplexes are in the 100-year floodplain or Greenway Overlay (GO);

(ii) All or part of a development that is in a Master Planned Development Overlay (MPDO) and is identified in a development agreement as requiring Type 2 approval;

(iii) The proposed use includes hazardous material, as defined in Section 19.01.070;

(iv) All or part of the development requires a modification to an existing development plan and/or master plan associated with a Master Planned Development Overlay;

(v) The Reviewing Official cannot determine from the application submitted that the use will meet the approval standards in Section 19.30.090; or

(vi) The permitted use could be approved subject to broader condition authority under Section 19.30.100.

(d) Type 1 Uses generally not subject to project review by the Administrative Official provided all applicable standards of this Title are met and/or when categorically exempt from environmental review under YCC Section 16.04.100, or for which environmental review has been completed in connection with other project permits, and when locating on an existing lot:

(i) Site-built or modular dwellings and two-family dwellings;

(ii) Manufactured home meeting requirements of Section 19.18.270;

(iii) Mobile or manufactured homes of any size in approved or existing mobile/manufactured home parks;

(iv) Multi-wide manufactured home in approved or existing manufactured home subdivisions;

(v) Single-wide manufactured home in approved or existing manufactured home subdivisions;

(vi) Single-wide manufactured home, on an individual lot meeting the criteria in Section 19.18.270;

(vii) Sales office within a residential or mixed-use project while units in the project are sold by the developer;

(viii) Garages and other accessory structures associated with (i) through (vii) above, but not including accessory dwelling units;

(ix) Forestry;

(x) Agriculture other than Animal Feeding Operations and Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations, slaughterhouses and rendering plants, and sprayfields;

(xi) Agricultural buildings;

(xii) Structures used for storage of fuel or agricultural products;

(xiii) Excavations;

(xiv) Irrigation distribution/drainage facilities, including impoundment of water, dams and frost ponds; and

(xv) Utility services (substations, reservoirs, etc.), when no building or series of buildings requires a building permit.

(2) Type 2 Applications.

(a) The Administrative Official (and the hearing examiner when such applications are referred by the Administrative Official under YCC 19.14.010(2)) reviews applications subject to Type 2 review under the procedures of Section 19.30.100 and YCC Chapter 16B.03 for compliance with this Title as provided by YCC Subsection 16B.03.030(1)(b).

(b) Applications subject to Type 2 review include:

(i) Short plats and recorded short plat alterations/vacations that do not involve a public dedication [See Subsection 19.34.040(9)];

(ii) New binding site plans for commercial and industrial development;

(iii) Administrative adjustments to standards where authorized by this Title; and

(iv) Type 2 Administrative Uses shown on the Allowable Land Use Table 19.14-1 in Chapter 19.14 are generally allowed in the zoning district. The compatibility between a Type 2 Administrative Use and the surrounding environment cannot always be determined in advance. Therefore, a Type 2 Administrative Use may be conditioned to ensure compatibility and compliance with the provisions of the zoning district and the goals, objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

(3) Type 3 Applications.

(a) The Hearing Examiner reviews applications subject to Type 3 review under the procedures of Section 19.30.100 and YCC Subsection 16B.03.030(1)(c).

(b) Applications subject to Type 3 review include:

(i) Variances;

(ii) Non-conforming use expansions or alterations, other than residential structures and specified mining operations;

(iii) Plat vacations or alterations under Chapter 58.17 RCW;

(iv) Major modifications to a Master Development Plan;

(v) Type 3 review required for Type 2 Administrative Uses referred by the Administrative Official for Type 3 review and for other specific reviews established by this Title. Such referred reviews are subject to the criteria of 19.30.020(2)(b)(iv) for Type 2 uses; and

(vi) Uses shown on the Allowable Land Use Table 19.14-1 in Chapter 19.14, Type 3 Conditional Uses are not generally appropriate throughout the zoning district.

(4) Type 4 Quasi-Judicial Applications. Long Plat Applications, new or expanded Master Planned Developments in Urban Growth Areas, Master Planned Resorts (MPRs) in rural or resource areas, Minor Rezones or any other Type 4 use or development listed in the Allowable Land Use Table 19.14-1 found in Chapter 19.14 are subject to Type 4 review. The process for review of Type 4 applications shall be as set forth in YCC Subsection 16B.03.030(1)(d) and Section 19.30.080 and the process for Minor Rezone applications shall be as set forth in Section 19.36.030.

(5) Accessory Uses. Accessory uses may be permitted when a principal use has been established. Accessory uses are customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal use of a structure or site. Refer to Section 19.18.020 for regulations governing accessory uses.

(6) Existing Uses. Within the zoning districts established by this Title, or zoning district amendments that may later be adopted, there may exist uses that were legally established prior to the effective date of this Title or applicable amendment that are classified as a Type 1, 2, 3 or 4 use in a particular zoning district. Such uses shall be considered Existing Type 1, 2, 3 or 4 uses, and subject to the review standards pertaining thereto under current code. Previously approved uses may continue according to their conditions of approval, whether classified as existing or nonconforming. A change in classification as existing or nonconforming will be reviewed under its new classification at such time the use is altered, amended, modified or expanded.

(7) Prohibited Uses Production, Processing and Retailing of Marijuana Prohibited. Production, processing and retail sales of marijuana and marijuana-infused products, all as defined in Initiative Measure No. 502, as codified in the Revised Code of Washington Chapter 69.50, and implementing regulations in Chapter 314-55 of the Washington Administrative Code, are each prohibited and not allowed in any zone within the unincorporated areas of Yakima County.

(8) Development Permits for Master Planned Resorts. The Resort Development Plan authorized in conjunction with the rezone to MPR is the guide for development of the resort. Establishment of the uses identified in the Resort Development Plan shall be subject to Type 1 review, in order to conduct site-specific review of the individual uses.

(a) Establishment of land uses and any division of land by subdivision or condominium must be consistent with:

(i) The authorized RDP;

(ii) Any specific conditions or required mitigation measures;

(iii) SEPA review, including an environmental checklist; and

(iv) All necessary construction authorization permits.

(b) Components or phases of the authorized RDP may be submitted with other required approvals as a master application.

(Ord. 2-2022 §3 (Exh. 1), 2022; Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.040 Pre-application Conference.

(1) Pre-application conferences are mandatory for:

(a) Agricultural Tourist Operations;

(b) Subdivisions (long plats);

(d) Mining Site Operations;

(e) Master Planned Development applications;

(f) Master Planned Resorts;

(g) Development located within the FEMA 100-year floodplain; and

(h) Other projects where required by the Administrative Official under YCC Section 16B.04.010.

(2) Prior to applying, the applicant may arrange a conference with the Planning Division to review the proposed action, to become familiar with the policies, plans and the development requirements and to coordinate all necessary permits and procedures.

(3) Any information or opinions expressed by the Planning Division staff shall not be binding on the Reviewing Official or constitute approval of the project. Refer to YCC Section 16B.04.010 for procedural details concerning a pre-application conference.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.060 Application Requirements.

All of the following documents and elements must be submitted as requirements for a fully completed application for project permits where specified in the particular application form or as determined necessary by the Administrative Official due to applicability of the specific requirement to the proposal:

(1) General Information. The items required under YCC Section 16B.04.020.

(2) Site Plan. A site plan, in conformance with Section 19.30.070.

(3) Optional Consolidated Permit Review. Under YCC Section 16B.03.060, two or more project permits relating to a proposed project action may be processed collectively under the highest numbered category of project permit required for any part of the proposal or processed individually under each of the procedures identified by the code. The applicable fee for each application will be required.

(4) Contents. Individual chapters of this Title and YCC Title 16B contain additional information required for a particular type of application review process.

(a) Design modifications, administrative adjustments, variances, minor rezones, modifications to approved, existing, and nonconforming uses, lots and structures, and other specified applications shall submit documents and elements in conformance with this Chapter and the specific requirements of Chapters 19.33 through 19.36.

(b) All applications shall include the following information:

(i) Yakima County taxation parcel number and, for land divisions, a legal description;

(ii) Description of proposed action;

(iii) Size of subject property;

(iv) Explanation of any administrative adjustment or design modification sought from the standards of this ordinance; and

(v) Draft of any proposed covenants, restrictions and easements.

(c) All necessary documents, narratives, detailed project development schedule or special studies identified at the time of pre-application conference must be included with the site plan at the time of submittal;

(d) A comprehensive sign plan meeting the requirements of Section 19.35.020(7), if an administrative adjustment or variance to the sign standards is requested;

(e) Special studies, such as soil and geological analyses as determined necessary by the Administrative Official to address specific site constraints; and

(f) Any other information specified by the Administrative Official, such as:

(i) Existing ownership pattern;

(ii) Operation and maintenance proposals (i.e. homeowner’s association, condominium, co-op or other);

(iii) Solid waste disposal facilities;

(iv) Lighting;

(v) Water supply and fire hydrants;

(vi) Public transportation;

(vii) Community facilities;

(viii) Flood proofing or other measures to protect against flooding; or

(ix) Information on design methods to conserve energy.

(5) Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions. A copy of any existing covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) or deed restrictions pertaining to or affecting the property.

(6) Boundary Line Adjustments. Additional items required for a boundary line adjustments under Section 19.34.020 include:

(a) Boundary Line Adjustments.

(i) Legal Descriptions. New legal descriptions prepared by a licensed surveyor for all new lots affected by the boundary line adjustment before they are submitted to the Planning Division. Existing legal descriptions may be submitted with the Owners’ Commitment or Subdivision Guarantee.

(ii) Record of Survey. A record of survey shall be submitted with the boundary line adjustment application in compliance with RCW 58.09. The record of survey shall include on the face or be attached to a declarative covenant with a statement of intent of the altered boundary lines, signed and notarized by all current owners of the properties. The document shall be titled “Record of Survey.” Every survey filed for record must contain or be attached to a declarative covenant or deeds giving a full and correct description of the lands divided as they appear, including a statement in substantially the following form:

LANGUAGE FOR DECLARATION OF CORRECTED BOUNDARY LINES: This boundary line adjustment has been made with the free consent and in accordance with the desires of the owner or owners. No fractional part of contiguous lots merged in this action may hereafter be sold, leased, transferred or developed through building permit or other development permit as a division separate or distinct from the land into which it is merged without prior approval under Yakima County Code Title 19.

(iii) Owner’s Commitment or Subdivision Guarantee. To establish the ownership of lots proposed for adjustment, the application shall be accompanied by a current Owner’s Commitment or Subdivision Guarantee as provided under Subsection 19.30.060(8).

(iv) Yakima Health District Approval. Applications for boundary line adjustments where individual on-site sewage systems are proposed on lots under two acres, or if located on Type 1 soil identified by WAC Chapter 246-272A, on lots under two and one-half acres shall be accompanied by a written verification from the Yakima Health District that the lots can accommodate an on-site sewage system, or that the proposed adjustment does not affect the on-site sewage system, as applicable under Subsection 19.34.060(5).

(7) Stormwater Site Plan. A stormwater site plan, if required by YCC Chapter 12.10.

(8) Owner’s Commitment or Subdivision Guarantee. A boundary line adjustment, binding site plan, or preliminary plat application shall include a current Owner’s Commitment or Subdivision Guarantee showing all parties having any interest in the “land” subdivided to establish the ownership of lots. The title company report shall be current within 60 days of submitting a complete application and address the following:

(a) The existing legal description of each parcel involved in the proposal;

(b) Those individuals or corporations holding an ownership interest and any security interest (such as deeds of trust or mortgages) or any other encumbrances affecting the title of said parcels.

(c) Any lands to be dedicated shall be confirmed as owned in fee title by the owner(s) signing the dedication certificate; and

(d) Any easements or restrictions affecting the properties being adjusted with a description of purpose and referenced by the auditor’s file number and/or recording number.

(9) SEPA Environmental Checklist. Any application not exempt under YCC Section 16.04.110, WAC 197-11-800(6) or Chapter 43.21C RCW, State Environmental Policy Act, shall include an environmental checklist unless the SEPA Responsible Official determines one is not needed.

(10) Written Narrative and Other Information.

(a) A written narrative shall be submitted that addresses the following:

(i) Project description including project phases and timeframes from project authorization to project completion;

(ii) How the application meets or exceeds each of the applicable approval criteria and standards;

(iii) How the issues identified in the pre-application conference have been addressed, and generally, how services will be provided to the site; and

(iv) Whether any development standards are proposed to be modified from the underlying zoning district requirements.

(b) Applications for binding site plans shall include a narrative describing the provisions for long term maintenance with adequate financing for areas and facilities under common ownership.

(i) A narrative demonstrating compliance with the approval criteria of Section 19.36.050;

(ii) Information in addition to the items of this Section and Subsection 19.30.070(7) required to review the unique MPR proposal;

(iii) Evidence of financial and other resources available to develop the project;

(iv) Tables showing total numbers of acres, distribution of area by use, percent designated for each use; and

(v) Approach to the strategies shown on the site plan and identified in Subsection 19.30.070(7) below.

(11) Cluster Development. Applications for cluster developments under Section 19.34.035 shall include the items required in that Section and items required for a boundary line adjustment, short subdivision or subdivision, depending on the type of process required for the proposed cluster development.

(12) Master Planned Development Overlay.

(a) Application. A proposed master concept plan may include properties both within and outside the jurisdictional boundaries of the cities, provided all areas are located within the UGA. Applications for Master Planned Development Overlays that transcend jurisdictional boundaries shall complete one of the following prior to acceptance of the application for processing:

(i) Annexation of the remainder of the property lying outside of city limits; or

(ii) Submit a petition for annexation to the City Council for the above mentioned property, and attain and submit an Early Transfer of Jurisdiction letter to the city releasing the proposed land use application to be processed by the city.

(b) Development Plan – Submission Requirements. An application for Master Planned Development shall include the following information:

(c) Planning History. A summary of all previous known land use decisions affecting the applicant’s property and a list of all outstanding conditions of approval regarding such prior land use decisions.

(d) Existing Property Information. An application for a Master Plan Development shall contain the following information on and adjacent to the site, presented in narrative, tabular and/or graphic formats:

(i) Vicinity map that identifies surrounding uses within 500 feet of the site boundary;

(ii) Legal description for the proposed Master Planned Development with a title report disclosing all lien holders and owners of record;

(iii) Zoning map that identifies base and overlay zoning designations for the site and surrounding property uses within 500 feet of the site boundary; and

(iv) Site description including the following information provided in narrative, tabular and/or graphic formats:

(A) Topography and natural resources including 100-year floodplain; wetlands, rivers, streams or other critical areas; and natural hazards such as steep slopes greater than 15%, and unstable, impermeable or weak soils;

(B) Inventory of cultural, historic and/or archaeological resources on the site, if any;

(D) Existing on-site transportation systems including streets, sidewalks and bike paths, if any;

(E) Location and size of existing public and private utilities on the site including water, sanitary sewer, storm water retention/treatment facilities and electrical, telephone and data transmission lines;

(F) Location of public and private easements;

(G) A description of the type, design and characteristics of the surrounding properties to assess the proposed Master Planned Development effects;

(H) Conceptual grading, drainage, and landscaping plans; and,

(I) Proposed development areas including building footprints, conceptual elevations or illustrative photos of similar development, identification of types, the number of dwelling units in each residential type and the number of square feet in each commercial type.

(e) Technical Studies. Technical Studies may be required by the Administrative Official when potential adverse impacts are identified and may include:

(i) A Traffic Impact Analysis sufficient to assess access to the site and within the site, on-street parking impacts and limitations and necessary traffic-related improvements;

(ii) Drainage Study;

(iii) Geotechnical Analysis;

(iv) Noise Analysis;

(v) Visual Composite; and

(vi) Other analysis of potentially significant issues as identified during the SEPA environmental checklist review.

(f) Site Plan. The application shall include a concept site plan consistent with Section 19.30.070 that includes the following elements:

(i) The proposed circulation system of arterial and collector streets, including if known, the approximate general location of local streets, private streets, off-street parking, service and loading areas, and major points of access to public rights-of-way, with notations of proposed public or private ownership;

(ii) A Master Planned Development incorporating commercial or industrial facilities must provide a buffer or site design along the perimeter of the Master Planned Development, which shall reasonably transition the Master Planned Development to any adjacent properties zoned or used for residential purposes. If automobile parking, driveways, or machinery operation is within 100 feet of a Master Planned Development boundary, site screening shall be in accordance with Chapter 19.21;

(iii) Aesthetic considerations related to building bulk, architectural compatibility, light and glare, urban design, solar access and shadow impacts;

(iv) Proposed pedestrian and vehicular circulation pattern and proposed types of circulation facilities;

(v) Proposed location and dimension of all common open spaces;

(vi) Site features to mitigate traffic, environmental, geotechnical and other impacts as identified in technical studies required by this Chapter; and

(vii) Shoreline and Critical Areas where applicable.

(g) A preliminary development plan consisting of a written statement for development setting out detailed information concerning the following subjects as they may be involved in the development, including, but not limited to the following items:

(i) Market analysis of proposed use;

(ii) Proposed ownership method;

(iii) Proposed operation and maintenance of development and landscaping;

(iv) Provisions to assure permanence and maintenance of common open spaces through homeowner association formation, condominium development, or other means acceptable to the County;

(v) General timetable for development, including future phases;

(vi) Impact on community facilities and services including but not limited to streets, schools, parks, medical, fire, police, water, sewer, storm drainage, solid waste and public transportation;

(vii) Compatibility with surrounding land uses; and,

(viii) An assessment of how the project is consistent with the purpose of the Comprehensive Plan and base zone, as well as MPDO criteria, and where the project differs from existing standards for similar uses or facilities outside without the MPDO.

(h) Development Agreement. The application should also include a Draft Development Agreement including the following elements:

(i) Narrative Description of Project and Objectives;

(ii) Summary of Development Standards;

(iii) Site Plan Elements;

(iv) Development Phasing, including times of performance to preserve vesting;

(v) Public Meeting Summaries;

(vi) Performance Standards and Conditions addressing items “a” through “e” above;

(vii) Criteria for Determining Major vs. Minor Modifications and amendments; and

(viii) Signatures by each owner of the property within the Master Development Plan area acknowledging that all owners will be bound by conditions of approval, including use, design and layout, and development standards contained with an approved Plan and Development Agreement.

(Ord. 9-2019 (Exh. 4) (part), 2019; Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.070 Site Plans for Project Permits – Form and Contents.

(1) Form. All site plans for project permits shall be drawn to scale and be legibly drawn, prepared, or printed on paper. The paper size shall be 8 ½” x 11” or 11” x 17” to show required improvement at an appropriate scale that can be read and reproduced. The County may also accept electronic submittals, as appropriate. The scale of the drawing shall be a standard engineering scale as further defined for each application type, unless a different scale is authorized by the Administrative Official, and shall reasonably utilize the paper size. Site plans must include the items listed in Subsections (2) through (7) below for the specific application. The site plan may be on several sheets accompanied by an index sheet showing the entire site.

(2) Contents. The Administrative Official may require the following site plan contents in Table 19.30.070-1 as necessary to review applications for project permits. The contents in Table 19.30.070-1 are intentionally broad and inclusive in order to comply with RCW 36.70B.080 and disclose all submittal requirements. This Title is implemented through use of forms tailored to submittal information related to specific application or case types under consideration.

Table 19.30.070-1. Site Plan Submittal Requirements
(a)	General Information.
	(i)	The project boundaries of the site and of each affected lot, tract, or parcel, with all Assessor’s tax parcel numbers for the subject property. (solid lines for existing lots, broken lines for proposed lots);
	(ii)	Engineer Scale, north arrow, legend and date;
(b)	Existing Conditions.
	(i)	All major physiographic features, such as, critical areas and shorelines, on or abutting the site;
	(ii)	When ground slopes exceed ten percent, the site plan shall depict existing topographic contours at intervals of not more than five feet, extending one hundred feet beyond the boundaries of the site;
(c)	Existing and Proposed Development.
	(i)	The location, shape, size, gross floor area, height and types of all existing and proposed structures, structures to be removed, minimum building setbacks, lot coverage, lot area, and the boundary lines of all proposed and existing lots, tracts, and easements;
	(ii)	Proposed location and dimension of community and other open space;
	(iii)	The location and dimensions of any existing and proposed utilities, streets, railroads, irrigation and drainage canals, easements and dedication of property within the subject property or adjacent to any affected lots;
	(iv)	The location, right-of-way widths, pavement widths, curbs, gutters, culverts and names of all existing or platted streets or roads, whether public or private, and other public ways within the subject property or adjacent to any affected lots;
	(v)	Location, dimension and design of off-street parking facilities, showing points of ingress to and egress from the site;
	(vi)	Existing and proposed land uses, including primary and accessory;
	(vii)	Existing and proposed pedestrian and vehicular circulation patterns, and where specified, sidewalks, trails and bicycle paths;
	(viii)	Existing and proposed landscaping, sitescreening and street trees, where required;
	(ix)	The proposed contours and grading as they affect lot layout, streets, and drainageways as set forth in YCC 12.10, 16C and 16D;
	(x)	Existing and proposed public and private utility infrastructure including sewer or other waste disposal facilities, water mains, irrigation, fire protection systems and other underground utilities;
	(xi)	The existing on-site sewage system components and reserve areas and the proposed location for on-site sewage systems and soil test pits for all affected lots not served by an on-site sewage system or other approved wastewater treatment system. The location of structures on the adjoining lots when within 100 feet of a well or on-site sewage disposal system;
	(xii)	The location of all existing and proposed storm drainage facilities;
(d)	Floodplain Development.
	A site plan for development in the 100-year floodplain shall also include the following information:
	(i)	Description of the extent to which any watercourse will be altered or relocated as a result of the proposed development.
	(ii)	The boundaries of the 100-year floodplain, the boundaries of floodways where floodways have been established, and the 100-year base flood elevations where base flood elevations have been established.
	(iii)	The boundaries of the 10 and 25-year floodplain using the flood risk maps provided by Yakima County as part the mandatory pre-application conference.
	(iv)	Other information as may be required by YCC Titles 13, 16C or 16D.

(Ord. 10-2019 (Exh. 1) (part), 2019; Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.071 Site Plans for Project Permits – Boundary Line Adjustments.

In addition to the requirements listed in Subsections 19.30.070(1) and (2) above, a boundary line adjustment shall show the location and dimensions of all structures/improvements existing upon the affected lots and the distance between each such structure/improvement when they are located within 100 linear feet of all existing and proposed boundary lines.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.072 Site Plans for Project Permits – Preliminary Short Plats.

(1) Preliminary Short Plats. In addition to the requirements listed in Subsection 19.30.070(1) and (2) above a preliminary short plat application shall show the following items where applicable:

(a) Location of the subdivision in range, township and section;

(b) Existing and Proposed Conditions:

(i) Approximate location of all natural features including, but not limited to areas covered by water and the location, width, name and direction of flow of all watercourses; and

(ii) For projects with more than four lots, the location, name, right-of-way width, approximate radii of curves and approximate grades of all proposed streets, alleys or roads within or on the boundary of the proposed subdivision;

(iii) The location, size and use of all contemplated and existing public areas within the proposed short subdivision. Areas for public use, approved by the Reviewing Official, shall be dedicated for such use and indicated on the final plat before recording;

(iv) Minimum building setback lines according to applicable development regulations, including buffers adjacent to critical areas and designated resource lands. A “typical lot” may show setbacks for all regular shaped interior lots. All setback lines must be shown on irregular shaped and corner lots.

(2) Final Short Plat. The final short plat meeting the requirements outlined in Section 19.34.070 must be prepared by a licensed land surveyor and be submitted using forms provided by the Administrative Official and accompanied with the required fee.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.073 Site Plans for Project Permits – Preliminary Plats.

(1) Preliminary Plats. In addition to the relevant requirements listed in Subsections 19.30.070(1) and (2) above, including all items required for preliminary short plat applications, preliminary plats shall show the following items where applicable:

(a) Scale. The scale of the drawing shall be a standard engineering scale at least one inch equals 200 feet and shall reasonably utilize the paper size, unless the Administrative Official requests or authorizes a different scale. Where necessary, the plan may be on several sheets accompanied by an index sheet showing the entire site.

(b) General information.

(i) Proposed name of the subdivision; this name shall duplicate no name used on a recorded plat or subdivision in Yakima County, including municipalities of the county;

(ii) Names and addresses of the owners, subdivider, designer of the subdivision and the surveyor; and

(iii) A full and correct legal description of the entire lot, tract, parcel, site or division constituting the applicant’s land.

(i) Approximate dimensions of all lots with proposed lot and block numbers. Lot sizes and dimensions shall comply with Section 19.10.050; and

(ii) If the subdivider desires to develop the plat in phases, the phases shall be shown on the preliminary plat.

(d) A vicinity map showing all roads or road reservations, streams, and any other pertinent information that will assist in the consideration of the proposed subdivision, including the names of adjacent subdivisions. The vicinity map shall extend at least 800 feet from the proposed subdivision.

(2) Final Plats. The final plat meeting the requirements outlined in Section 19.34.070 must be prepared by a licensed land surveyor and be submitted using forms provided by the Administrative Official and accompanied with the required fee.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.074 Site Plans for Project Permits – Binding Site Plans.

(1) Binding Site Plans. In addition to the requirements listed in Subsections 19.30.070(1) and (2) above all binding site plans shall show the following items where applicable:

(a) Scale. The scale of the drawing shall be a standard engineering scale at least one inch equals 200 feet and shall reasonably utilize the paper size, unless the Administrator requests or authorizes a different scale. Where necessary, the plan may be on several sheets accompanied by an index sheet showing the entire site.

(b) General Preliminary Binding Site Plan Requirements. Binding Site Plans shall show the location, description and proposed phasing of the following facilities proposed to serve the development, such as:

(i) Interior and exterior roadway network;

(ii) Water and sewerage facilities;

(iii) Stormwater drainage facilities;

(iv) Sidewalks and streetlights;

(v) Fire protection systems with sufficient water storage and flows;

(vi) Facilities to address compatibility with adjacent dissimilar land uses; and

(vii) For commercial and industrial uses, any lot(s) to be created as a part of the original Binding Site Plan.

(c) Site Plan Requirements for Manufactured/Mobile Home Parks. All proposals for manufactured/mobile home parks shall include a site plan based upon a land survey. The site plan shall be drawn by a licensed architect, engineer or surveyor and shall include the items listed in subsection (1) above and the following information:

(i) All spaces clearly delineated on the site plan and dimensions and square footage for each space;

(ii) A building area within each space;

(iii) Unit setbacks for each space;

(iv) The location of required off street parking for each unit;

(v) Signage for the park and directional signage;

(vi) The location of all solid waste containers and screening of containers; and

(vii) All facilities, utilities, improvements and amenities, including pathways, sidewalks, and recreational facilities.

(d) Site Plan Requirements for Campgrounds and Recreational Vehicle Parks. Site plan requirements for campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks allowed under 19.18.130 shall include the items listed in subsection (1) above and the following campground-specific information:

(i) The proposed location, configuration and size of each camping space;

(ii) Amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, landscaped areas and buffers, restrooms, showers, dump stations and swimming areas;

(iii) The location of the campground or recreational vehicle park management office or owner/manager’s residence, all existing buildings and structures on site and buildings, structures, and uses proposed to be developed in the campground or recreational vehicle park; and

(iv) The acreage and proposed site density of the campground and/or recreational vehicle park.

(2) Final Binding Site Plan. The final binding site plan meeting the requirements outlined in Section 19.34.081 must be prepared by a licensed land surveyor and be submitted using forms provided by the Administrative Official and accompanied with the required fee.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.075 Site Plans for Project Permits – Master Planned Resorts (MPR).

In addition to the site plan requirements listed in Subsections 19.30.070(1) and (2) above all MPR Development Plans shall provide the following where applicable:

(1) Narrative and graphics (e.g., building elevations, concept plans) describing a detailed unifying theme consistent with the natural setting of the Master Planned Resort;

(2) Narrative and graphics describing all planned uses and their rationale consistent with the resort theme, the Resort Development Plan and definition of Master Planned Resort;

(3) Demonstration that residential uses will generally be of a nature and ownership that are clearly for short-term visitor accommodation. Other residential uses may be included only if such uses are integrated into and support the on-site recreational nature of the resort;

(4) Narrative and graphics describing the development phasing of the resort;

(5) Narrative and graphics describing the following aspects of the resort at a conceptual level of detail: Strategies for:

(a) Supplying water to the resort, showing: (i) approximate service line locations; (ii) water sources; (iii) needed volumes; (iv) available volumes; (v) water rights to support the resort; (vi) water storage and facility locations; (vii) designation of Satellite Management Agency; (viii) other necessary information identified by Administrative Official.

(b) Sewage disposal, showing: (i) approximate sewer line locations; (ii) approximate drainfield areas and locations; (iii) estimated sewage volumes generated; (iv) designation of Satellite Management Agency; (v) treatment facility locations; (vi) lagoon and spray field areas and locations; (vii) other information determined necessary by the Administrative Official.

(c) Vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian traffic flow, showing: (i) approximate road and path locations; (ii) methods of dealing with hills and steep slopes; (iii) methods of stormwater control; (iv) necessary upgrades to existing systems; (v) anticipated typical street sections; (vi) other necessary information identified by Administrative Official.

(d) Grading, showing: (i) how grading and resort design works with natural topography of site; (ii) areas needing minor surface grading; (iii) areas needing major excavation or filling along with their anticipated depth; (iv) conceptual cross-sections to depict land form changes throughout resort; (v) approximate slopes planned throughout the resort; (vi) other information determined necessary by the Administrative Official.

(e) Providing electric and communication utilities to the resort, showing: (i) approximate line locations; (ii) necessary upgrades to existing systems; (iii) substations and facility locations; (iv) other information determined necessary by the Administrative Official.

(f) Providing emergency and other services, showing: (i) necessary upgrades to existing facilities; (ii) station and facility locations; (iii) other information determined necessary by the Administrative Official.

(g) Providing a consistent architecture, landscape and open space character, showing: (i) design consistent with theme; (ii) typical or sample elevations depicting architectural character; (iii) landscaping and open space plans; (iv) other information determined necessary by the Administrative Official.

(h) Treatment and modification of critical areas, showing: (i) stream, floodplain and wetland modification; (ii) restoration work; (iii) buffer modifications; (iv) stream and wetland crossings; (v) methods for dealing with other critical areas (if applicable such as Geological Hazards, Wildlife Habitat and Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas; (vi) other information determined necessary by the Administrative Official.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.080 Application Review Procedures.

Applications shall be submitted and considered in the manner established by YCC Chapter 16B.04, Application Process and as follows:

(1) Applications. Applications shall include information necessary to review the proposal for conformance with this Title, as set forth in Section 19.30.060.

(2) Completeness Review. The procedures for determining whether an application is complete for review are established in YCC Sections 16B.04.030 through 16B.04.070.

(3) Violations and Penalties. As provided in YCC Sections 16B.11.040 and 16B.11.050, and this Title, an application may be rejected by the Administrative Official where a violation of this or other County ordinances or state law is found to exist on the property until such time as the violation is remedied or the application itself is intended to remedy the violation or the Administrative Official determines the proposal has no bearing on the existing violation. Such violations may also be considered sufficient grounds for denial of an application by the County if the proposed application cannot and does not remedy the violation.

(4) Additional Information. The Reviewing Official may request additional or more detailed information as provided in YCC Section 16B.04.040.

(5) Public Notice.

(a) Notice shall be given for Type 2, 3 and 4 reviews as provided for in YCC Chapter 16B.05.

(b) The Reviewing Official may also solicit comments from any other person or public agency he feels may be affected by the proposal.

(6) Administrative Adjustments at Public Hearings. In order to address site plan modifications resulting from the public hearing process, the Hearing Examiner and Board may grant administrative adjustments under the criteria of Chapter 19.35 without additional notice. Road Design Modifications may be authorized by the appropriate Reviewing Official only for those adjustable standards indicated in Section 19.35.040 under Table 19.35.040-1.

(7) Decision Criteria. Decision criteria for Type 1 permits are listed below in Section 19.30.090. For all Type 2, 3 and 4 reviews, the Reviewing Official shall prepare written findings and conclusions stating the specific reasons, upon which the decision or recommendation to approve, approve with conditions or deny the application is based. The findings shall, at a minimum, address the following criteria:

(a) The present and future needs of the community will be adequately served by the proposed development and that the community as a whole will be benefited rather than injured;

(b) The proposed use is compatible with neighborhood land uses, the goals, objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan, and the legislative intent of the zoning district;

(d) All setbacks, spaces, walls and fences, parking, loading, sitescreening, landscaping, and other features required by this Title;

(e) The proposed use complies with other development and performance standards of the zoning district and this Title;

(f) The site for the proposed use relates to streets and highways adequate in width and pavement type to carry the quantity and kind of traffic generated by the proposed use;

(g) The proposed use will have no substantial adverse effect on abutting property or the permitted use thereof;

(h) In the case of residential uses, the housing density of the development is consistent with the existing zoning densities, or the Comprehensive Plan, and that all other aspects of the development are consistent with the public health, safety, and general welfare for the development and for adjacent properties; and

(i) The development complies with all criteria in Chapter 19.18 applicable to the proposed use, unless otherwise administratively adjusted.

(8) Reviewing Official’s Decision. After considering the matters in the record and any comments in response to notice where required, the Reviewing Official shall take one or more of the following actions as authorized under YCC Title 16B:

(a) Approve the application;

(b) Establish conditions for approval or require changes in the proposed site plan, provided that conditioning authority for Permitted Uses subject to Type 1 review is limited to that specified in Section 19.30.090;

(c) Request additional or more detailed information per YCC Section 16B.07.030. The Reviewing Official may continue an open record public hearing to allow requested additional information to be provided;

(d) Refer any Type 2 Administrative Use application to the Hearing Examiner for the purpose of holding a public hearing and rendering a decision on the proposal under Type 2 review procedures and criteria;

(e) Deny the application; and

(f) As provided in YCC Chapter 16B.09, the Board may also remand a Type 2 Administrative, Type 3 Conditional or Type 4 Quasi-judicial application to the Hearing Examiner before making a decision on the record if the Board finds that the Hearing Examiner’s decision or recommendation needs clarification or further findings on specific points, consistency with this Title, or the Comprehensive Plan.

The Reviewing Official’s final decision shall be issued in accordance with the requirements of YCC Chapter 16B.07.

(9) Limitations. Applications approved by the Reviewing Official authorize only the use, arrangement and construction set forth in the approved site plans, plats and applications, and no other use, arrangement or construction unless otherwise permitted and not prohibited by condition. Use, arrangement or construction substantially at variance with that authorized is a violation of this Title and punishable as provided by YCC Chapter 16B.11.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.090 Type 1 Application Approval Criteria and Conditions.

(1) In granting a project permit application subject to Type 1 review, the Administrative Official shall review the submitted materials and all other necessary information to determine that:

(a) The proposed development complies with the standards and provisions of the zoning district in which it is located, the development standards and all other applicable sections of this Title, except when an Administrative Adjustment is granted or the proposed development is otherwise modified according to the provisions of this Title.

(b) Adequate water, sewer, roads, and other infrastructure improvements exist, or will be provided, to serve the project consistent with the purpose of the zoning district.

(c) When located within an Urban Growth Area, the Reviewing Official may solicit and consider comments from the affected city in making this determination.

(d) When necessary to meet current development standards or to serve the proposed use, conditions may be required relating to:

(i) The number and location of vehicular access points (subject to approval by the reviewing authority with jurisdiction to issue approach or access permits);

(ii) The dedication of additional right-of way and or public use easements for access, utilities or other purposes;

(iii) Increased building setbacks to provide for future road improvements for classified roads;

(iv) Flood hazard mitigation under YCC Chapters 16C.05 or 16D.05;

(v) Storm drainage facilities as required in YCC Title 12.10;

(vi) Other infrastructure improvements; or

(vii) Other mitigation measures required under the SEPA.

(2) When the proposed Type 1 project permit application does not meet one or more requirements of Subsection (1) above, it shall either be subject to conditions to correct the deficiency, or if it cannot be adequately conditioned to comply with this Title, it shall be denied.

(3) When a Type 1 project permit application is denied, the Administrative Official shall state the specific reasons.

(4) When a proposed Type 1 project permit application is conditioned or denied, the applicant and/or property owner may appeal the determination to the Hearing Examiner under YCC Chapter 16B.09.

(5) The Reviewing Official shall prescribe a time limit within which the action authorized shall be commenced, completed, or both. The time frame for boundary line adjustments shall not exceed one year, and for all other Type 1 permits, the time frame shall not exceed three years from the date of final decision, except as may be allowed by YCC Subsection 16B.07.050(2)(a) or such longer time as allowed by State law.

(6) Violation of conditions and safeguards, when made part of the terms under which the project permit is granted, shall be considered a violation of this Title and subject to the remedies set forth in Section 19.30.120, YCC Chapter 16B.11 and YCC Title 13.

(Ord. 10-2019 (Exh. 1) (part), 2019; Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.100 Conditions for Approval of Type 2, 3 and 4 Applications.

(1) The Reviewing Official is authorized by development standards of this Title and other applicable Titles of County code to require conditions for approval of Type 2 Administrative, Type 3 Conditional or Type 4 Quasi-judicial Uses or Actions. The Reviewing Official may impose additional or greater requirements as conditions of approval on any use, development or modification being reviewed to ensure that the proposal meets the standards and criteria for approval.

(2) Except, as otherwise expressly provided, a Reviewing Official may impose conditions to:

(a) Comply with any development standard or criteria for approval set forth in this Title or other relevant provisions of Yakima County Code;

(b) Mitigate material impacts of the development, whether environmental or otherwise;

(c) Ensure compatibility of the development with existing neighboring land uses; assure consistency with the intent and character of the zoning district involved;

(d) Ensure that the structures and areas proposed are surfaced, arranged and screened in such a manner that they are compatible with and not detrimental to existing or reasonable expected future development of the neighborhood, or resource uses, consistent with the Comprehensive Plan; and

(e) Achieve and further the intent, goals, objectives, and policies of the Comprehensive Plan and this Title.

(3) This Title grants broad authority to impose special conditions and safeguards to achieve and further the objectives listed above, consistent with the limitations imposed by County code. These conditions and safeguards may include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) Increasing or limiting the required lot size, setback or yard dimensions, consistent with development regulations;

(b) Limiting or increasing the height of buildings or structures, consistent with development regulations;

(c) Controlling the number and location of vehicular access points (subject to approval by the reviewing authority with jurisdiction to issue approach or access permits);

(d) Requiring the dedication or reservation of additional rights-of-way or easements for future road or street improvements;

(e) Requiring the designation of public use easements or drainage easements and recording of same;

(f) Increasing or decreasing the number of required off-street parking and/or loading spaces as well as designating the location, screening, drainage, surfacing or other improvement of a parking area;

(g) Limiting the number, size, height, shape, location and lighting of signs;

(h) Requiring view-obscuring fencing, landscaping or other facilities to protect adjacent or nearby properties;

(i) Designating sites for and/or the size of open space or recreational areas;

(j) Requiring site reclamation upon discontinuance of use and/or expiration or revocation of the project permit;

(k) Limiting hours and size of operation;

(l) Controlling the siting of the use and/or structures on the property;

(m) Requiring that public facilities are adequate to serve the proposed use;

(n) Requiring improvements to public or private roads, bridges, stormwater facilities and drainageways, water systems or sewage systems; and

(o) Requiring mitigation measures to effectively reduce the potential for land use conflicts and separate Especially Sensitive Land Uses, as defined in Chapter 19.01, from active agricultural, forest, or mineral operations, such as: landscape buffers; special setbacks; screening; site design using physical features such as rock outcrops, ravines, roads, irrigation canals or critical areas.

(4) The Reviewing Official shall prescribe a time limit within which the action authorized shall be commenced, completed, or both. The time frame shall not exceed three years from the date of final action.

(a) The Reviewing Official may approve a longer time frame to cover subsequent phases of the project permit or action where a specific detailed development schedule and sufficient information has been provided by the applicant to allow evaluation of the full scope of the proposal including all phases at the time of review.

(b) Such time frame shall be consistent with state statute where specifically provided or such longer time as allowed by State law or by other requirements of this or other County Titles

(c) As provided in YCC Section 16B.07.050, failure to meet the time limit set shall void the approval; except that the Administrative Official may authorize a onetime extension of either or both dates upon request, provided such extension request is filed in writing prior to the required commencement or completion date as authorized in YCC Section 16B.07.050. Such extension request shall define the circumstances that prohibited the commencement or completion, or both, of the use authorized. The length of such time extension, if authorized, shall not exceed 12 additional months from the date the extension decision becomes final.

(5) Violation of such conditions and safeguards, when made part of the terms under which the project permit is granted, shall be considered a violation of this Title and subject to the remedies set forth in Section 19.30.120, YCC Chapter 16B.11 and YCC Title 13.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.110 Final Decisions.

(1) Notification of a final decision shall be issued as required under YCC Chapter 16B.07.

(2) Notice shall specify whether the final decision may be appealed as allowed under YCC Chapter 16B.09.

(3) If the effect of the decision is a recommendation, it shall be transmitted to the Board as provided in YCC Section 16B.09.050.

(4) Once the Board has taken action a copy of the decision will be provided by the Planning Division to the applicant and parties of record who participated in the hearing.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.120 Compliance with Conditions, Safeguards and Mitigation Required – Revocation of Project Permits.

(1) A Project Permit shall complete all required permit conditions within the timeframe and any extension as provided in YCC Section 16B.07.050(3)(a). The project shall maintain full compliance with the requirements of the project permit decision.

(2) The Reviewing Official may revoke a project permit issued under this Title if it is ascertained:

(a) The application included any false information material to the project permit approval; or

(b) The project permit, previously found to be in compliance with conditions and safeguards, subsequently fails to maintain compliance with the conditions, safeguards and/or mitigation requirements made a part of the terms under which the approval was granted.

(3) This action to revoke the project permit may be undertaken along with any other remedies available to Yakima County to enforce conditions of a decision, remedy violations or abate public nuisances under this Title, YCC Title 13 and YCC Chapter 16B.11 Violations and Enforcement. Nothing shall obligate the Reviewing Official to revoke a project permit as a remedy for any violation of this Title or for any project not maintaining full compliance with the requirements of a project permit decision.

(4) If the Reviewing Official finds that any conditions, safeguards and/or mitigation required by the project permit are not being maintained, the Reviewing Official shall prescribe a time for correction, and if corrections are not made within the time limit, revocation of the project permit shall become effective five days after the time previously specified.

(5) The applicant or property owner may request a public hearing on the revocation subject to payment of a fee. An open record public hearing shall be held before the Hearing Examiner under the procedures of YCC Title 16B, in order to show cause why such Permit approval should not be revoked. Adjoining property owners and parties of record in the project permit approval process shall have standing to participate in the appeal.

(6) A new application for a project permit previously revoked under this Section cannot be made within one year after revocation.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).

19.30.130 Performance Assurance.

(1) Legislative Intent. The intent of this Section is to:

(a) Ensure that public and private improvements required of a project permit are constructed;

(b) Provide for Latecomers Agreements and Road Improvement Districts to assist with financing required public improvements over time;

(c) Allow individuals developing property options for financing public and private improvements required by this Title to provide performance assurance in lieu of construction through acceptance of:

(i) Surety Bonds;

(ii) Cash Escrow;

(iii) Cash Security Deposits; and

(iv) Maintenance Bonds;

(d) Provide a remedy and financing mechanism to ensure construction of required public and private improvements when the applicant fails to perform; and

(e) Protect public property.

(2) Applicability. This Section applies to the construction and maintenance of public and private infrastructure improvements required under this Title and YCC Section 12.10.310 related to stormwater.

(3) Latecomers’ Agreements. The County may join in the financing of improvement projects and may be reimbursed in the same manner as the owners of real estate who participate in the projects under this Section as an alternative to financing projects solely by owners of real estate. The applicant or proponent for a latecomers’ agreement must propose an assessment reimbursement area. They shall be responsible for a financing bond and for the cost to the County of setting up the agreement.

(4) Road Improvement Districts. The developer may participate in the formation of a road improvement district (RID) to improve the dedicated right-of-way to minimum County standards as specified in Chapter 19.23. The County Engineer may require a road corridor study to determine the most suitable location for the dedicated right-of-way. The cost for such a study shall be borne by the developer.

(5) Financing in Lieu of Construction.

(a) As a condition of approval of any project permit decision under this Title, the Reviewing Official may require security for the performance, completion and maintenance of any proposed or required public or private improvement or any other term or condition of approval pertaining to a public or private improvement. The estimate of the performance and completion of any proposed or required improvement or any other term or condition of approval pertaining to an improvement will be reviewed and/or calculated by the County Engineer or a designee. When such security is required, it shall be made under this Section and must be made and approved prior to issuing the development permit. The quality, sufficiency, amount and exact form of the security are subject to the approval and satisfaction of Reviewing Official, typically the County Engineer for Public infrastructure, and Administrative Official for private infrastructure, or the Public Services Director where stormwater facilities are involved.

(b) Whenever security is provided by an applicant it shall state directly or by reference all the following provisions:

(i) What improvements or performance are secured;

(ii) A date or dates of required completion of improvements;

(iii) The amount of the security;

(iv) That the security is payable to Yakima County; and

(v) That the applicant shall maintain the security in force until completion of all required conditions or improvements, for which the security was provided or for improvement maintenance warranty period.

(i) Surety Bond (For Improvements Costing More than $50,000.00). RCW 58.17.130 provides for the acceptance of a surety bond by Yakima County in lieu of the actual construction of any required public or private improvement prior to the final approval of a development.

(A) The Reviewing Official may accept a bond, in an amount and with surety and conditions satisfactory to the Reviewing Official, providing for and securing to Yakima County the actual construction and installation of all improvements within two years of the acceptance of the bond.

(B) The amount of the surety shall be the estimated construction cost as determined by a registered engineer, plus 25% for the administration of the contract. The bond shall continue in full force until the affirmative release by the Reviewing Official.

(C) If at the end of the two-year period the improvements are not completed the Reviewing Official may take action against the bond to complete the improvements.

(ii) Cash Escrow (For Improvements Costing Less than $50,000.00).

(A) As a condition of approval of any project permit decision under this Title, the Reviewing Official may require cash escrow security for the performance, completion and maintenance of any proposed or required public or private improvement or any other term or condition of approval pertaining to a public or private improvement that cost less than $50,000.00. The maximum length of the escrow shall not exceed two years.

(B) If the applicant posts a cash escrow as security for the required improvements, the escrow instructions shall provide:

1. That the applicant will have no right to a return of any of the funds, except as provided herein.

2. That the escrow agent shall have a legal duty to deliver the funds to the County whenever the Reviewing Official presents an affidavit to the agent attesting to the County’s right to receive funds whether or not the applicant protests that right. If and when the County accepts the offer of dedication for the last completed required improvement, the County shall execute a waiver of its right to receive all but 25% of the funds represented by the cash escrow if the applicant is not in breach of the improvement agreement. The residual funds shall be security for the applicant’s covenant to maintain the required improvements, if public, and its warranty that the improvements are free from defect.

(iii) Cash Security Deposit (For Improvements Costing Less than $5,000.00).

(A) Cash deposits may be made to Yakima County for public or private improvements costing less than $5,000.00. The amount of the deposit shall be determined by an estimate of the estimated cost of completion of the required improvement prepared by a professional engineer plus 25% for project administration. Partial release of funds shall not be allowed. The maximum length of the deposit shall not exceed six months.

(B) When a security deposit is made under this Section a written improvement agreement pertaining to performance of required improvements shall be made and signed by the applicant and the appropriate Reviewing Official for the County. The cost of the account shall be provided for by the applicant or may be deducted from the security deposit.

(iv) Maximum length of Cash Escrow or Surety Bond. The maximum length of the Cash Escrow or Surety Bond may be extended by the Administrative Official when determined to be in the public interest to do so.

(v) Maintenance Bond. A maintenance bond or other security is required for infrastructure improvements to ensure the successful operation of the improvements for not less than two years after acceptance of the construction of the improvements. The amount of the maintenance bond shall be 25% of a professional engineers’ estimate of the construction cost of the improvements or $5,000.00, whichever is greater. The maintenance bond shall be in place prior to the Reviewing Official’s final acceptance of constructing the infrastructure improvements and full compliance with permit conditions, or the release of the bond or surety placed in lieu of construction.

(6) Performance Failure. If the improvements or performances secured by the deposit are not timely completed, the appropriate Reviewing Official shall notify the applicant in writing stating:

(a) The nature of the noncompliance and the action necessary to correct the same;

(b) The time in which the applicant must take corrective action; and

(c) That if corrective action is not completed within the time specified, the County will apply the funds in the security deposit or bond to effect compliance. If the corrective action is not taken by the applicant or permit holder within the time specified in the notice given by the Reviewing Official, the County shall, through its representatives, take whatever action that the County deems necessary to ensure the improvements are made. The County shall cause the performance or completion of the items covered by the security deposit or bond and shall apply funds held to the cost of such completion or performance. Any excess or surplus funds shall be refunded to the applicant after the performance maintenance warranty period has expired.

(7) Partial or Full Release of Security.

(a) Partial Release. An applicant may request a partial release of any security under this Section based on partial completion or compliance with the events secured. If the Reviewing Official determines partial release is warranted he may cause a partial release of security in an amount deemed by him to be appropriate. A cash escrow shall not be reduced below 25% of the principal amount. At the end of the maintenance and warranty periods, all escrowed funds, if any, shall be released to the applicant.

(b) Full Release. The County will not accept dedication of required improvements, nor release nor reduce any security posted by the applicant until the Reviewing Official has determined all required improvements have been satisfactorily completed and until:

(i) The applicant’s engineer or surveyor has certified to the Reviewing Official, through submission of detailed “as-built” plan or survey indicating location, dimensions, materials, and other information required by the Reviewing Official that the layout of the line and grade of all public improvements is under construction plans for the development; or

(ii) A title insurance policy has been furnished to and approved by the Reviewing Official indicating the improvements have been completed, are ready for dedication to the County, and are free and clear of any and all liens and encumbrances. Upon such approval and recommendation by the Reviewing Official, the County shall accept the improvements for dedication in accordance the established procedure.

(8) Applicant and Permit Holder Responsible for Deficiencies. The applicant and/or permit holder is responsible for all costs incurred by the County in causing completion of the events secured by any security provided for under this Section. If after fully applying the security a deficiency remains, the applicant and/or permit holder shall be jointly and severally liable for such deficiency and for reasonable attorney’s fees necessary to collect the same.

(9) Administration. The Administrative Official, County Engineer or Public Services Director as determined by the performance requirement may sign documents and otherwise administer securities under the provision of this Section.

(Ord. 7-2013 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2015).