Chapter 115 – MISCELLANEOUS USE DEVELOPMENT AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Sections:
115.05 User Guide
115.07 Accessory Dwelling Units
115.08 Accessory Structure (Detached Dwelling Unit Uses Only)
115.10 Accessory Uses, Facilities and Activities
115.15 Air Quality Regulations
115.20 Animals in Residential Zones
115.23 Common Recreational Space Requirements for Certain Residential Uses
115.24 Cross Kirkland Corridor/Eastside Rail Corridor – Supplemental Development Standards for Adjoining Properties
115.25 Development Activity – Limitations On
115.33 Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
115.35 Erosion and Sedimentation Regulation
115.40 Fences
115.42 Floor Area Ratio (F.A.R.) Calculation for Detached Dwelling Units in Low Density Residential Zones and Attached Dwelling Units in PLA 3C
115.43 Garage Requirements for Detached Dwelling Units in Low Density Zones
115.45 Garbage and Recycling Receptacles and Enclosures – Storage Space, Placement and Screening
115.47 Loading and Service Areas Placement and Screening
115.50 Glare Regulation
115.55 Heat Regulation
115.59 Height Regulations – Calculating Average Building Elevation (ABE)
115.60 Height Regulations – Exceptions
115.62 High Performing Buildings
115.65 Home Occupations
115.80 Legal Building Site
115.85 Lighting Regulations
115.87 Lot Size Flexibility
115.90 Calculating Lot Coverage
115.95 Noise Regulations
115.100 Odor
115.105 Outdoor Use, Activity and Storage
115.106 Personal Delivery Devices
115.107 Public Utility, Electrical Transmission Lines
115.110 Radiation
115.115 Required Yards
115.120 Rooftop Appurtenances
115.122 Rooftop Amenities and Rooftop Common Rooms
115.125 Rounding of Fractions of Dwelling Units
115.135 Sight Distance at Intersections
115.136 Size Limitations for Structures Abutting or Within Low Density Zones and Abutting Low Density Uses in PLA 17
115.137 Solar Collectors in Residential Zones
115.138 Temporary Construction Staging for Public Projects
115.139 Temporary Government Facilities
115.140 Temporary Storage Containers
115.141 Temporary Trailers for Construction and Real Estate Sales Offices
115.142 Transit Shelters and Centers, Public
115.150 Vehicles, Boats and Trailers – Size in Residential Zones Limited
115.155 Marijuana Retail Business – Buffer Requirements from Licensed Child Care Centers
115.05 User Guide
This chapter contains a variety of regulations and standards that apply to the development and use of land. The regulations in this chapter do not all pertain to the same general subject matter. The regulations are arranged alphabetically so that careful review of the table of contents is important to finding all pertinent regulations.
115.07 Accessory Dwelling Units
Two (2) accessory dwelling units (ADUs), including either one (1) attached ADU and one (1) detached ADU, or two (2) of either type, are permitted per single-family dwelling; provided, that an accessory dwelling unit shall not be considered a “dwelling unit” in the context of Special Regulations in Chapters 15 through 56 KZC which limit the number of detached dwelling units on each lot to one (1). Accessory dwelling units must be consistent with the following standards:
1. Occupancy Limitations – Occupancy limitations for ADUs shall be consistent with the provisions of the KMC Property Maintenance Code.
2. Subdivision – A property containing a detached accessory dwelling unit shall not be subdivided but may be segregated in ownership from the principal dwelling unit.
3. Size – The square footage of the ADU shall not exceed 1,200 square feet of gross floor area. For attached ADUs, if the accessory unit is completely located within existing gross floor area on a single floor, the Planning and Building Director may allow increased size in order to efficiently use all floor area. When calculating the square footage of the ADU see KZC 5.10.340, definition of “gross floor area.” The gross floor area shall not include:
a. Area with less than five (5) feet of ceiling height, as measured between the finished floor and the supporting members for the roof.
b. Covered exterior elements such as decks and porches; provided, the total size of all such covered exterior elements does not exceed 200 square feet. See KZC 115.08 for additional size and height limitations.
4. Location – An accessory dwelling unit may be added to or included within the principal unit, or located in a detached structure. Detached accessory dwelling units located on lots approved using the historic preservation subdivision regulations must be located behind the historic residence. Accessory dwelling units must conform with the setbacks, height restrictions, lot coverage and other applicable zoning regulations required for single-family dwellings in the applicable use zone; except as modified by KZC 115.42 and 115.115(3)(o). In addition, detached accessory dwelling units must be fully contained in a separate structure that is detached from the principal unit and any attached accessory dwelling unit. A detached accessory dwelling unit may not share a common roof structure with the principal unit and/or attached accessory dwelling unit.
5. Entrances – The primary entrance to the accessory dwelling unit shall be located in such a manner as to be clearly secondary to the main entrance to the principal unit and shall not detract from or alter the single-family character of the principal unit.
6. Parking – On lots with more than one (1) accessory dwelling unit, there shall be one (1) off-street parking space provided unless:
a. On-street parking is available within 600 feet of the subject property; or
b. The property is located within one-half mile of transit service with 15-minute headways during commute hours.
7. Applicable Codes – The portion of a single-family dwelling in which an accessory dwelling unit is proposed must comply with all standards for health and safety contained in all applicable codes, with the following exception for ceiling height. Space need not meet current International Building Code (IBC) ceiling height requirements if it was legally constructed as habitable space.
8. Permitting
a. Application
1) The property owner shall apply for an accessory dwelling unit permit with the Planning and Building Department. The application shall include an affidavit signed by the property owner agreeing to all the general requirements outlined in this section.
In the event that proposed improvements in the accessory dwelling unit do not require a building permit, a registration form for the unit must be completed and submitted to the Planning and Building Department.
2) The registration form as required by the City shall include a property covenant. The covenant must be filed by the property owner with the City for recording with the King County Recorder’s Office to indicate the presence of the accessory dwelling unit, and reference to other standards outlined in this section. The covenant shall run with the land as long as the accessory dwelling unit is maintained on the property.
3) If an ADU was or is created without being part of a project for which a building permit was or is finaled, an ADU inspection will be required for issuance of an ADU permit. The ADU inspection fee will cover a physical inspection of the ADU. This fee will be waived if the ADU existed on January 1, 1995, and the ADU permit is applied for by December 31, 1995.
b. Eliminating an Accessory Dwelling Unit – Elimination of a registered accessory dwelling unit may be accomplished by the owner filing a certificate with the Planning and Building Department, or may occur as a result of enforcement action.
c. Appeals. The decision of the Planning Official is appealable using the applicable appeal provisions of Chapter 145 KZC.
(Ord. 4715 § 1, 2020; Ord. 4491 §§ 3, 11, 2015; Ord. 4476 § 3, 2015; Ord. 4408 § 1, 2013; Ord. 4372 § 1, 2012; Ord. 4320 § 1, 2011; Ord. 4286 § 1, 2011; Ord. 4252 § 1, 2010; Ord. 4193 § 1, 2009; Ord. 4102 § 2, 2007; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007)
115.08 Accessory Structure (Detached Dwelling Unit Uses Only)
Structures, to be used as a tool shed, greenhouse, private garage, accessory dwelling unit, barn or similar use are permitted. The total size of all such structures may not exceed the gross floor area of 1,200 square feet plus 10 percent of the lot area that exceeds 7,200 square feet. An accessory structure which contains an accessory dwelling unit must also comply with KZC 115.07 which may further limit its size.
The gross floor area shall not include area with less than five feet of ceiling height, as measured between the finished floor and the supporting members for the roof. The height (roof peak elevation) of an accessory structure, including ADUs, in all residential zones, may not exceed the maximum height allowed by the underlying zone or 15 feet above the existing height (roof peak elevation) of the primary residence, whichever is less. This height limitation may be more restrictive than KZC 83.180(2) for ADUs in the shoreline jurisdiction and in the event of a conflict between this provision and KZC 83.180(2), this provision shall prevail based on KZC 83.70(2).
(Ord. 4876 § 1, 2024; Ord. 4286 § 1, 2011; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007)
115.10 Accessory Uses, Facilities and Activities
1. General – Accessory uses, facilities and activities normally associated with a use listed as a permitted use in a zone are permitted as part of that permitted use. The accessory use, facility or activity must be clearly secondary to the permitted use.
2. Authority of the Planning and Building Director – The Planning and Building Director is specifically authorized to determine if a particular accessory use, facility or activity is normally associated with a particular permitted use and if a particular accessory use, facility or activity is clearly secondary to the permitted use.
3. Exceptions and Limitations – This code establishes specific limitations and regulations for some accessory uses and facilities for some uses in some zones. Where applicable, those specific regulations supersede the general statement of subsection (1) of this section.
4. On-Site Hazardous Waste Treatment and Storage – Pursuant to Chapter 70.105 RCW, on-site hazardous waste treatment and storage facilities are considered accessory facilities in all zones, except residential, that allow the processing or handling of hazardous substances. These facilities must comply with the state siting criteria as adopted in accordance with RCW 70.105.210, and/or all applicable DOE standards.
5. Family Child-Care Home – Pursuant to Chapter 43.215 RCW, a family child-care home is a permitted accessory use in any residential or commercial zone which allows residential use. A family child-care home shall be subject to the following regulations:
a. The family child-care home is subject to the requirements established by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) (WAC Title 170).
b. The family child-care provider shall be licensed by DCYF to operate a family child-care home.
c. A safe passenger loading area as certified by the DCYF licensor shall be provided.
d. The family child-care home shall comply with all applicable building, fire, safety, and health codes enforced by the City.
e. The family child-care home shall comply with all applicable use regulations of the Kirkland Zoning Code.
f. All signage shall conform with the applicable requirements of Chapter 100 KZC.
g. The City has the authority to limit the hours of operation to facilitate neighborhood compatibility.
h. Prior to receiving state licensing, the family child-care provider shall provide the City with proof of written notification informing immediately adjoining property owners of the intent to locate and maintain the family child-care home. The notification shall:
1) Inform the notified parties that comments may be submitted to the DCYF; and
2) Provide contact information for submitting such comments to the DCYF.
3) The proof of notification shall be in the form of a written affidavit containing:
a) The date and means of notification;
b) A copy of the notification; and
c) A list of the parties to whom the notification was distributed.
(Ord. 4749 § 1, 2021; Ord. 4121 § 1, 2008; Ord. 3852 § 1, 2002)
115.15 Air Quality Regulations
1. State Regulation – Air quality is regulated by the Washington Clean Air Act, Chapter 70.94 RCW. Any inquiry, complaint, or violation regarding air quality will be referred to the Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Authority.
2. Public Nuisance – Any emission of air contaminants which annoys; injures; endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of persons; or in any way renders persons insecure in life, or in the use of property, is a violation of this code.
115.20 Animals in Residential Zones
1. General – This section establishes special regulations that govern the keeping of animals as an accessory use in zones where a dwelling unit is permitted.
a. In addition to the maximum number of adult animals permitted, offspring from one (1) female are permitted at any given time until those offspring are able to survive independently.
b. Animal Waste – Measures must be taken to properly dispose of animal waste.
c. Other Regulations – Nothing in this section eliminates the need to comply with King County animal control regulations, state law regulating the keeping of animals, and any other ordinance of the City of Kirkland regulating the keeping of animals.
2. Household Pets
a. Types – The following animals will be regulated as household pets: dogs, cats, rabbits, gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, cage birds, nonvenomous reptiles and amphibians, and any other animals normally associated with a dwelling unit, and which are typically housed within the dwelling unit.
b. Required Review Process – None.
c. Maximum Number of Adult Animals per Dwelling Unit
1) Three (3) dogs.
2) Three (3) cats.
3) A total of four (4) dogs and cats.
4) Four (4) rabbits.
5) Other: No maximum.
d. Minimum Lot Size – None.
e. Minimum Setback – Structures and pens must be at least five (5) feet from each property line.
f. Special Regulations
1) Dogs, cats, and rabbits may be housed either inside or outside the dwelling unit.
2) Other household pets must be housed within the dwelling unit. If housed outside of the dwelling unit they will be regulated as small domestic animals.
3. Small Domestic Animals
a. Fowl.
1) Permitted Locations – Low density zones.
2) Required Review Process – None.
3) Maximum Number of Adult Animals per Lot
a) On lots with an area of less than 35,000 square feet:
i) Three (3) fowl, regardless of lot size.
ii) One (1) additional chicken for each 1,000 square feet of lot area above 5,000 square feet, up to a maximum of 20 chickens.
iii) Roosters are prohibited except for those in RSA zones existing prior to August 15, 2012.
b) On lots with an area of 35,000 square feet or more: 20, plus one (1) additional for each 500 square feet of lot area above 35,000 square feet.
4) Minimum Setback
a) Structures shall not be located in required yards except as allowed by KZC 115.115 and except for the following:
i) Mobile structures (chicken tractors) may be anywhere within a fenced yard.
ii) Structures may be located within five (5) feet of any property line; provided, that the property adjacent to the proposed location of the structure is either:
A) Occupied primarily by a nonresidential use such as a church, school or park; or
B) A permanently dedicated easement or tract that is at least 10 feet in width.
b) Structures larger than 100 square feet shall be at least 40 feet from each property line.
5) Special Regulations
a) Must provide a suitable structure or pen to house the animals.
b) Must maintain structures and pens in a clean condition.
c) Fowl may forage or roam freely anywhere within a fenced yard, but adequate measures must be taken to provide safety for the fowl and prevent them from straying onto adjacent property.
b. Other Small Domestic Animals – Small domestic animals exceeding the numbers specified in subsection (2)(c) of this section.
1) Required Review Process – None.
2) Maximum Number of Adult Animals – 20 per 35,000 square feet of lot area and one (1) per each additional 500 square feet of lot area.
3) Minimum Lot Size – 35,000 square feet per dwelling unit.
4) Minimum Setback – Structures and pens used to house animals must be at least 40 feet from each property line.
5) Special Regulations
a) The City may limit the number of animals allowed to less than the maximum considering:
i) Proximity to dwelling units both on and off the subject property; and
ii) Lot size and isolation; and
iii) Compatibility with surrounding uses; and
iv) Potential noise impacts.
b) The applicant must provide a suitable structure or pen to house the animals, and must maintain that structure or pen in a clean condition.
4. Bees
a. Required Review Process – None.
b. Maximum Number
1) Lots containing 15,000 square feet or less – maximum of two (2) hives.
2) Lots containing more than 15,000 square feet but less than 35,000 square feet – maximum of five (5) hives.
3) Lots containing 35,000 square feet or more – maximum of 15 hives.
c. Minimum Lot Size – 7,200 square feet.
d. Minimum Setback – Hive must be at least 25 feet from any property line. See also special regulation in subsection (4)(e)(5) of this section.
e. Special Regulations
1) Colonies must be in movable frame hives.
2) Adequate space must be maintained in the hive to prevent overcrowding and swarming.
3) Colonies must be requeened following any swarming or aggressive behavior.
4) All colonies must be registered with the Washington State Department of Agriculture.
5) Hives may be located closer than 25 feet to any property line if:
a) Situated eight (8) feet or more above adjacent ground level; or
b) Situated less than six (6) feet above adjacent ground level and behind a solid fence or hedge six (6) feet in height parallel to any property line within 25 feet of the hive and extending at least 20 feet beyond the hive in both directions.
6) Bees living in trees, buildings, or any other space except in movable frame hives; abandoned colonies or diseased bees shall constitute a public nuisance.
5. Horses
a. Required Review Process
1) PLA 16 zone, if part of a recorded master plan: none.
2) All other zones, including in PLA 16 on lots which are not part of a recorded master plan:
a) On lots 35,000 square feet or greater: none.
b) On lots less than 35,000 square feet the City may approve up to two (2) horses, using Process I, Chapter 145 KZC, pursuant to subsection (5)(b)(2)(b) of this section.
b. Maximum Number of Adult Horses
1) PLA 16 zone, if part of a recorded master plan: two (2) horses.
2) RS 35 and RSX 35 zones within the Bridle Trails neighborhood north and northeast of Bridle Trails State Park or residential lots in PLA 16 zone which are not part of a recorded master plan:
a) On lots of at least 35,000 square feet: two (2) horses per 35,000 square feet of lot area and up to two (2) additional horses may be kept on a residential lot, providing that an additional 3,000 square feet of paddock area is available for each additional horse. (See subsection (5)(e) of this section for minimum paddock standards.)
b) On lots less than 35,000 square feet the City may approve up to two (2) horses using Process I, Chapter 145 KZC; based on the following criteria:
i) Proximity to dwelling units both on and off the subject property; and
ii) Lot size and isolation; and
iii) Compatibility with surrounding uses; and
iv) Potential noise impacts.
3) All other zones:
a) Two (2) horses per 35,000 square feet of lot area and one (1) horse per each additional 17,500 square feet of lot area.
b) If lot size is less than 35,000 square feet, the City may approve up to two (2) horses using Process I, Chapter 145 KZC; pursuant to subsection (5)(d)(1)(b)(ii) of this section.
c. Minimum Lot Size
1) PLA 16 zone, if part of a recorded master plan: 26,000 square feet.
2) All other zones, including in PLA 16 on lots which are not part of a recorded master plan:
a) 35,000 square feet.
b) May be less than 35,000 square feet if approved through Chapter 145 KZC, Process I.
d. Barn Size and Setback
1) The applicant must provide a suitable barn to house the horses, and must maintain it in a clean condition.
2) RS 35 and RSX 35 zones within the Bridle Trails neighborhood north and northeast of Bridle Trails State Park or residential lots in PLA 16 zone, which are not part of a recorded master plan:
a) Size – Barns within the designated paddock area may not exceed 1,200 square feet in footprint, excluding covered overhangs, and must be designed solely for housing of animals and storage of tack, feed, shavings or ancillary equipment.
b) Setbacks – Barns to house horses must be a minimum of 40 feet from habitable dwellings, both on and off the subject property.
3) All other zones, including in PLA 16 on lots that are part of a recorded master plan:
a) Size – Barns must not exceed 1,200 square feet, plus 10 percent of the lot area that exceeds 7,200 square feet and must meet all other requirements of KZC 115.08, Accessory Structure.
b) Setbacks – Barns to house horses must be a minimum of 40 feet from each property line. The City may permit barns to extend into the property line in common with the abutting property; provided, that:
i) An abutting property owner files a signed and notarized statement with the City in support of the request; and
ii) The barn complies with all other regulations pertaining to setbacks in that zone.
e. Paddock Size and Setbacks
1) RS 35 and RSX 35 zones within the Bridle Trails neighborhood north and northeast of Bridle Trails State Park or residential lots in PLA 16 zone which are not part of a recorded master plan:
a) Size – Each residential lot must contain an area of at least 10,000 permeable square feet for the purpose of accommodating two (2) horses, capable of being used for or easily converted to a paddock area and barn, and meeting the following standards:
i) The paddock must have a minimum width of 40 feet and configured in a contiguous and usable manner to accommodate the feed, storage and manure pile. “Configured in a contiguous and usable manner” shall mean an area, uninterrupted by non-paddock area, having a shape as close to square or rectangular as possible. While the minimum width allowed is 40 feet, the majority of the area must have a width of at least 80 feet.
ii) The Planning Official is authorized to approve minor deviations from the required dimensions and/or shape of the paddock area due to pre-existing improvements and/or size, shape, or topography of the property.
b) Setbacks
i) The paddock areas must be five (5) feet from each property line which abuts a school use or a residential zone other than RS 35, RSX 35 or PLA 16, including part of a recorded master plan, otherwise there is no setback.
ii) The paddock areas must be 10 feet from habitable dwellings and five (5) feet from significant improvements outside the paddock area, such as swimming pools, sports courts, decks and patios, both on and off the subject property.
c) Additional Paddock Requirements
i) The area used or reserved for paddock area must be pervious and exclusive of any structures or improvements (except barns) such as storage sheds, residential units, carports, decks, patios, swimming pools, ponds, sports courts, rockeries, or paving, but may contain easily removed features such as children’s play equipment, landscaping, trellises, and flagpoles, as long as such features are not embedded in concrete or otherwise permanently mounted. The area shall not be located over a septic tank, drain field, or reserve drain field. Paddock areas shall not be located on steep slopes (over 15 percent grade) or in areas regulated under Chapter 90 KZC, Critical Areas: Wetlands, Streams, Minor Lakes, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Areas, and Frequently Flooded Areas.
ii) Direct access to the paddock area must be available to deliver feed and pick up manure from an alley, an easement or an adjacent right-of-way across a side yard of the lot. The access route shall have a minimum unobstructed width of 15 feet and a grade no greater than 12 percent, except that for the first 15 feet in back of the existing or future curb line the grade shall not exceed six (6) percent. Any portion of an access route located within an adjacent equestrian trail easement shall not be paved, but may be surfaced with gravel up to 5/8-inch size.
2) All other zones, including in PLA 16 on lots which are part of a recorded master plan:
a) Size – Each lot must contain an area of at least 14,500 square feet capable of being used as a horse paddock area and configured to meet the following standards:
i) The paddock must be designed in a contiguous and usable manner to accommodate the feed storage and manure pile for two (2) horses. This area must be exclusive of any structures, including storage sheds, barns, residential units and carports.
ii) Direct access to this area must be available for trucks to deliver feed and pick up manure from an alley, easement, or an adjacent right-of-way across a side yard of the lot.
b) Setbacks – Paddocks must be a minimum of 20 feet from each property line. The City may permit horse paddocks to extend into the property line in common with the abutting property; provided, that:
i) An abutting property owner files a signed and notarized statement with the City in support of the request; and
ii) The paddock complies with all other regulations pertaining to setback in that zone.
f. Outdoor Manure Piles
1) PLA 16 zone: No outdoor manure pile may be placed closer than 65 feet to any adjacent residential structure.
2) All other zones: No outdoor manure pile may be placed closer than a point equidistant to any adjacent residential structure.
6. Large Domestic Animals
a. Types – The following animals will be regulated as large domestic animals: cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and other grazing or foraging animals.
b. Required Review Process
1) On lots 35,000 square feet and greater: none.
2) If the lot size is less than 35,000 square feet the City will decide on the permitted number of large domestic animals using Process I, Chapter 145 KZC; based on the following criteria:
a) Proximity to dwelling units both on and off the subject property; and
b) Lot size and isolation; and
c) Compatibility with surrounding uses; and
d) Potential noise impacts.
c. Maximum Number of Adult Animals
1) Two (2) per 35,000 square feet of lot area and one (1) per each additional 17,500 square feet of lot area.
2) The City may limit the number of animals allowed to less than the maximum pursuant to the criteria in subsection (6)(b)(2) of this section.
d. Minimum Lot Size
1) 35,000 square feet.
2) May be less than 35,000 square feet if approved through Chapter 145 KZC, Process I.
e. Structures, Barn and Pen Size and Setback
1) The applicant must provide a suitable barn or pen to house the animals, and must maintain that barn or pen in a clean condition.
2) Size – Barns must not exceed 1,200 square feet, plus 10 percent of the lot area that exceeds 7,200 square feet and must meet all other requirements of KZC 115.08, Accessory Structure.
3) Setbacks – Barns and pens used to house animals must be a minimum of 40 feet from each property line. The City may permit barns and pens to extend into the property line in common with the abutting property; provided, that:
a) An abutting property owner files a signed and notarized statement in support of the request; and
b) The barn or pen complies with all other regulations pertaining to setback in that zone.
f. Roaming and Grazing Areas – Roaming and grazing areas must be at least 20 feet from each property line. The City may permit barns and pens to extend into the property line in common with the abutting property; provided, that an abutting property owner files a signed and notarized statement in support of the request.
g. Outdoor Manure Piles
1) PLA 16 zone: No outdoor manure pile may be placed closer than 65 feet to any adjacent residential structure.
2) All other zones: No outdoor manure pile may be placed closer than a point equidistant to any adjacent residential structure.
7. Bonds – The City may require a bond under Chapter 175 KZC to ensure that the subject property is maintained in a clean condition.
(Ord. 4551 § 4, 2017; Ord. 4450 § 1, 2014; Ord. 4392 § 1, 2012; Ord. 4370 § 2, 2012; Ord. 4250 § 1, 2010; Ord. 4196 § 1, 2009; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007; Ord. 3954 § 1, 2004)
115.23 Common Recreational Space Requirements for Certain Residential Uses
1. General – Residential developments identified herein by zone and use listing shall comply with the common recreational space requirements of this section:
a. RM and RMA Zones: “Detached, Attached, or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 20.20.060 and 25.20.050;
b. PR and PRA Zones: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 30.20.060;
c. NRH 5 Zone: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units (Stand Alone or Mixed with Office Uses),” KZC 54.36.010;
d. NRH 6 Zone: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units (Stand Alone or Mixed with Office Uses),” KZC 54.42.010;
e. PLA 5A Zone: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 25.20.050;
f. PLA 5B Zone: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 30.20.060; and “Development Containing Stacked or Attached Dwelling Units and Office Uses,” KZC 30.20.090;
g. PLA 5D Zone: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 25.20.050;
h. PLA 5E Zone: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 25.20.050;
i. PLA 6A Zone: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 25.20.050;
j. PLA 6B Zone: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 30.20.060; and “Development Containing Stacked or Attached Dwelling Units and Office Uses,” KZC 30.20.090;
k. PLA 6D Zone: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 25.20.050;
l. PLA 6F Zone: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 20.20.060;
m. PLA 6H Zone: “Detached, Attached, or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 20.20.060;
n. PLA 6I Zone: “Detached, Attached, or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 25.20.050;
o. PLA 6J Zone: “Detached, Attached, or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 25.20.050;
p. PLA 6K Zone: “Detached, Attached, or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 20.20.060;
q. PLA 7A, 7B Zones: “Detached, Attached, or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 25.20.050 and PLA 7C Zone: “Detached, Attached, or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 20.20.060; and
r. PLA 17 Zone: “Detached, Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units,” KZC 20.20.060.
2. If a proposed use or development activity identified in subsection (1) of this section will contain four (4) or more units, then it must contain at least 200 square feet per unit of common recreational space usable for many activities. This required common recreational open space must have the following minimum dimensions:
a. For four (4) to 20 units, the open space must be in one (1) or more pieces each having at least 800 square feet and having a length and width of at least 25 feet.
b. For 21 units or more, the open space must be in one (1) or more pieces having a length and width of at least 40 feet.
c. The required common recreational open space may be reduced to 150 square feet per unit if permanent outdoor furniture, pool, cooking facilities, playing equipment, and/or a recreation building are provided in the common open space. The City shall determine if these outdoor provisions provide comparable recreational opportunities as would the open space that is reduced, based on the number of residents that they would serve at one (1) time. Also, the required minimum dimension for the open space containing these outdoor provisions may also be reduced in proportion to the reduced open space area.
(Ord. 4498 § 5, 2015; Ord. 4476 § 3, 2015; Ord. 4392 § 1, 2012; Ord. 4320 § 1, 2011; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007)
115.24 Cross Kirkland Corridor/Eastside Rail Corridor – Supplemental Development Standards for Adjoining Properties
1. General – The following regulations shall apply to all properties adjoining the Cross Kirkland Corridor/Eastside Rail Corridor (the Corridor), except those properties located in low density residential zones.
a. The minimum required yard is 10 feet as measured from the common property line with the Corridor. All outdoor use, activity or storage areas located adjacent to the Corridor shall comply with the minimum 10-foot required yard. Parking areas are subject to the requirements of KZC 115.115.
b. Exception – The Planning Official may allow the required yard to be reduced to zero (0) feet for one (1) story of retail or restaurant uses where:
i. The facade facing the Corridor is oriented to serving Corridor users with pedestrian entrances, pedestrian and bicycle access between the Corridor and entrance, and similar design features; and
ii. The facade facing the Corridor contains transparent windows and/or doors occupying at least 50 percent of the facade.
3. Design Standards – Development on properties adjoining the Corridor shall comply with the following design standards. Compliance with these standards shall be administered by the Planning Official in conjunction with review of an applicable development permit unless the proposal is subject to Design Board review, in which case the Design Review Board shall review the proposal for compliance. Applications involving additions or modifications to existing buildings shall comply with these standards to the extent feasible depending on the scope of the project. The Planning Official or Design Review Board may modify compliance with a particular regulation if the applicant demonstrates that it is not feasible given the existing development and scope of the project.
a. Site Design: Development adjoining the Corridor shall be designed to complement the public nature of the Corridor though the following site design and pedestrian improvements; provided, that subsections (3)(a)(i), (iii) and (iv) of this section shall not apply to A Retail Establishment Providing Vehicle or Boat Sales:
i. Landscape islands required pursuant to KZC 95.44 (Internal Parking Lot Landscaping Requirements) shall be provided such that there are no more than eight (8) contiguous parking stalls along the corridor.
ii. In addition to providing the screening and buffering functions required by the KZC, landscape design shall integrate with and complement corridor functions.
iii. A pedestrian entrance facing the Corridor shall be provided with a pedestrian walkway connecting from the entrance to the Corridor. The walkway shall be installed pursuant to the standards of KZC 105.18(2)(a), except any stairs shall be equipped with a bicycle runnel. The Planning Official may modify the connection requirement where grade or other natural features preclude reasonable access to the Corridor.
iv. Bicycle parking as required by KZC 105.32 shall be provided at a ratio of one (1) bicycle space for each six (6) required motor vehicle parking spaces and shall be accessible by bicycle to the Corridor.
b. Building Design: Building design adjoining the Corridor shall acknowledge the high visibility from this active public space through the following building design standards:
i. All buildings shall be designed so that facades visible from the Corridor comply with the provisions of KZC 92.15(3) (Blank Wall Treatment).
ii. All buildings shall be designed so that parking garages visible from the Corridor comply with the provisions of KZC 92.15(4)(a) and (b) (Parking Garages).
iii. Building facades visible from the Corridor shall incorporate similar building materials and window treatment as other facades of the building.
iv. Building facades facing the Corridor shall not exceed 120 feet without vertical definitions. Vertical definition may be in the form of changes in color and materials, modulations of sufficient width and depth to define the vertical element, or some combination of these techniques. This vertical element should carry through all floors of the building.
(Ord. 4442 § 1, 2014)
115.25 Development Activity – Limitations On
1. General – It is a violation of this code to engage in any development activity before 7:00 a.m. or after 8:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or before 9:00 a.m. or after 6:00 p.m. Saturday. No development activity may occur on Sundays or on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
2. Exceptions
a. The Planning Official may grant written permission to engage in a development activity outside of the hours established by subsection (1) of this section if either:
1) The activity or operation will not impact any residential use; or
2) The permission will facilitate the construction of publicly funded improvements that will serve the general population of the City of Kirkland and such permission is necessary to avoid undue delay of project completion and/or long-term inconvenience or disruption to the general public; or
3) The Public Works Official determines it is necessary in order to avoid significant, unavoidable impacts to traffic, utilities, or other public services.
b. The Planning Official may limit the hours of operation permitted under subsection (1) of this section, if:
1) The reduced hours will best serve the public’s health, safety and welfare; or
2) There have been substantial verifiable complaints received by the Planning and Building Department that the development activity is interfering with the health and repose of residents of a residential use which is permitted in the zone in which the development activity is located.
If the Planning Official determines that the hours of operation on a site should be limited pursuant to subsections (2)(b)(1) or (2) of this section, he/she shall provide written notice to the owner of the property affected by this decision one week prior to the imposition of the restriction. The Planning Official shall have the right to repeal this restriction at any time it can be shown that the development activity can and will be conducted so as not to be contrary to subsections (2)(b)(1) and (2) of this section.
(Ord. 4844 § 1, 2023; Ord. 4491 § 3, 2015; Ord. 4437 § 1, 2014; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007; Ord. 3852 § 1, 2002)
115.33 Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
1. Purpose and Intent – It is the intent of these development regulations to encourage the use and viability of electric vehicles as they have been identified as a solution to energy independence, cleaner air and significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Electric vehicles need access to electric vehicle infrastructure (EVI) in appropriate locations. In 2009 the Washington State Legislature passed House Bill 1481 relating to electric vehicles. The bill addressed EVI which includes the structures, machinery, and equipment necessary and integral to support an electric vehicle, including battery charging stations, rapid charging stations, and battery exchange stations.
The purpose of the development regulations in this section is to meet the state of Washington requirements and to also allow battery charging stations and battery exchange stations in appropriate use zones throughout the City.
2. General – This section establishes where the components of electric vehicle infrastructure are allowed within the City.
Exceptions – Electric vehicle infrastructure may not be located in critical areas, their buffer or buffer setbacks.
3. All Use Zones
Level I and Level II battery charging stations are allowed as an accessory use to an approved use within all use zones.
a. A battery exchange station is allowed as an accessory use to all commercial zones where repair or maintenance of vehicles is permitted.
b. A rapid battery (Level III) charging station is allowed as an accessory use to all commercial zones where repair and maintenance of vehicles is permitted including gas stations.
a. A rapid battery (Level III) charging station is allowed as an accessory use to an approved use within the Light Industrial Technology (LIT) or other Industrial zones where repair and maintenance of vehicles is permitted.
b. A battery exchange station is allowed as an accessory use to an approved use within the Light Industrial Technology (LIT) or other Industrial zones where repair and maintenance of vehicles is permitted.
6. Institutional Uses – A rapid battery charging station (Level III) is allowed as an accessory use to an approved institutional use.
7. Signage is required to identify a charging station for the exclusive use of an electric vehicle. On-site signage shall also be required to provide directional assistance. (See Plate 45 in Chapter 180 KZC).
(Ord. 4551 § 4, 2017; Ord. 4350 § 1, 2012)
115.35 Erosion and Sedimentation Regulation
It is a violation of this code for the owner of the subject property to create, allow or perpetuate conditions on the subject property which cause the erosion or undermining of adjacent property. It is also a violation of this code for the owner of the subject property to create, allow or perpetuate a condition which causes the deposition of sediments or the movement of other geologic materials onto adjacent property.
115.40 Fences
1. General
a. Fences not over six (6) feet in height may be anywhere on the subject property except:
1) A fence may not be within 15 feet of any street curb, or the edge of the street pavement, if no curb exists; or
2) If the applicant can show with a survey, or other reasonable means, the location of his/her property line, the fence can be placed on the property line regardless of the distance from a street curb or the edge of the pavement.
3) A fence may not violate the provisions of KZC 115.135.
4) A detached dwelling unit abutting a neighborhood access or collector street may not have a fence over 3.5 feet in height within the required front yard.
On corner lots with two (2) required front yards, this restriction shall apply only within the front yard adjacent to the front facade of the structure.
5) A detached dwelling unit may not have a fence over 3.5 feet in height within three (3) feet of the property line abutting a principal or minor arterial except where the abutting arterial contains an improved landscape strip between the street and sidewalk. The area between the fence and property line shall be planted with vegetation and maintained by the property owner.
6) No fence of any height may be placed waterward of the shoreline setback required in Chapter 83 KZC or within any portion of a side yard that coincides with the shoreline setback.
b. Fences over six (6) feet in height may not be located in a required setback yard. See KZC 115.115, Required Yards, for regulations relating to fences on retaining walls.
c. The Planning Official may approve a modification to the fence height requirements, except within the shoreline setback regulated under Chapter 83 KZC, if:
1) The modification is necessary because of the size, configuration, topography or location of the subject property; and
2) The modification will not have any substantial detrimental effect on abutting properties or the City as a whole.
2. Barbed Wire – Barbed wire is permitted only atop a fence or a wall at least six (6) feet in height.
3. Electrified Fences – Electrified fences are not permitted in Kirkland, except to contain large domestic animals (see KZC 115.20(2)(c)). All electric fences and appliances, equipment, and materials used in connection therewith shall be listed or labeled by a qualified testing agency and shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and in compliance with the latest edition of the National Electrical Code. Furthermore, electrified fences must be located at least 18 inches on the inside of wood fences when located along any property line. In addition, all electric fences shall be posted with permanent signs which are a minimum of 36 square inches in area at intervals of 15 feet along the fence stating that the fence is electrified.
(Ord. 4286 § 1, 2011; Ord. 4252 § 1, 2010)
115.42 Floor Area Ratio (F.A.R.) Calculation for Detached Dwelling Units in Low Density Residential Zones and Attached Dwelling Units in PLA 3C
The intent of these F.A.R. regulations is to limit the perceived bulk and mass of residential structures as they relate to the right-of-way and adjacent properties and to ensure houses are proportional to lot size. The design incentives in subsection (4) of this section are provided to encourage more interesting design and location of building massing toward the center of each lot, away from neighboring properties.
1. Gross floor area for purposes of calculating F.A.R. and maximum floor area for detached dwelling units in low density residential zones and attached dwelling units in PLA 3C shall include the entire area within the exterior walls for each level of the structure. It shall also include the area of all carports, measured as the area of the carport roof. It shall not include the following:
a. Attic area with less than five feet of ceiling height, as measured between the finished floor and the supporting members for the roof.
b. Floor area with a ceiling height less than six feet above finished grade. The ceiling height will be measured to the top of the structural members for the floor above. The finished grade will be measured along the outside perimeter of the building (see Plate 23). For window wells, finished grade will be measured at the outside perimeter of a window well only when it is designed and constructed to the minimum dimensions required by the current building code adopted by the City of Kirkland.
c. On lots less than 8,500 square feet, the first 500 square feet of an accessory dwelling unit or garage contained in an accessory structure, when such accessory structure is located more than 20 feet from and behind the main structure, or 10 feet from and behind the main structure if the accessory structure contains an accessory dwelling unit (see subsection (3) of this section for additional information on the required distance between structures); provided, that the entire area of an accessory structure, for which a building permit was issued prior to March 6, 2007, shall not be included in the gross floor area used to calculate F.A.R. For purposes of this section, “behind” means located behind an imaginary plane drawn at the back of the main structure at the farthest point from, and parallel to, the street or access easement adjacent to the front facade.
d. On lots greater than or equal to 8,500 square feet, the first 800 square feet of an accessory dwelling unit or garage contained in an accessory structure, when such accessory structure is located more than 20 feet from and behind the main structure, or 10 feet from and behind the main structure if the accessory structure contains an accessory dwelling unit (see subsection (3) of this section for additional information on the required distance between structures); provided, that the entire area of an accessory structure, for which a building permit was issued prior to March 6, 2007, shall not be included in the gross floor area used to calculate F.A.R. For purposes of this section, “behind” means located behind an imaginary plane drawn at the back of the main structure at the farthest point from, and parallel to, the street or access easement adjacent to the front facade.
e. Uncovered decks.
f. Covered decks, porches, and walkways that are open on at least three sides or have a minimum 50 percent of the perimeter of the deck, porch, or walkway open. Deck, porch, or walkway perimeters with the following characteristics are considered open:
1) Have no walls of any height; and
2) Have no guard rails taller than the minimum height required by the Building Code.
g. One exemption of 100 square feet if the dwelling unit has an internal staircase and/or an area with a ceiling height greater than 16 feet.
2. Floor area with a ceiling height greater than 16 feet shall be calculated at twice the actual floor area toward allowable F.A.R. The ceiling height for these areas will be measured to the top of the structural members for the floor above or, if there is no floor above, to the bottom of the structural members for the roof.
3. Separate structures will be regulated as one structure if any elements of the structures, except for the elements listed in subsection (3)(b) of this section, are closer than 20 feet to each other, or closer than 10 feet if the structures contain an accessory dwelling unit.
a. Two structures connected by a breezeway or walkway will be regulated as one structure if any element of the breezeway or walkway is higher than 10 feet above finished grade.
b. Elements of structures that may be closer than 20 feet to each other, or 10 feet if the structures contain an accessory dwelling unit, are:
1) Elements of a structure no higher than 18 inches above finished grade;
2) Chimneys, bay windows, greenhouse windows, eaves, cornices, awnings and canopies extending no more than 18 inches from the wall of a structure;
3) Stairs extending no more than five feet from the wall of a structure;
4) For structures not containing an accessory dwelling unit, porches extending no more than five feet from the wall of a structure if:
a) The porch is no higher than one story and the finished floor of the porch is no more than four feet above finished grade;
b) Three sides of the porch are open other than railings and solid walls no higher than 42 inches;
c) No deck, balcony, or living area is placed on the roof of the porch;
d) The length of the porch does not exceed 50 percent of the wall of the structure to which it is attached;
e) Porch eaves may extend an additional 18 inches from the edge of the porch.
4. Design-Based F.A.R. Bonus
a. An additional five percent F.A.R. above the maximum F.A.R. for the zone will be allowed for a subject property if at least two of the design elements below are used in the design and construction of dwelling units on the subject property:
1) With the exception of accessory features, all roof forms for all structures consist of ridgelines peaked near the center of the structure, with a minimum pitch of four feet vertical to 12 feet horizontal.
2) All structures are set back from side property lines by at least seven and one-half feet.
3) The gross floor area of any floor above ground floor, including any accessory structures with floors above ground floor, shall be reduced by a minimum of 15 percent of the floor area of the ground floor on a per-structure basis.
b. The above design-based F.A.R. bonus cannot be combined with any other F.A.R. incentive in this code or the Kirkland Municipal Code.
(Ord. 4876 § 1, 2024; Ord. 4844 § 1, 2023; Ord. 4811 § 1, 2022; Ord. 4781 § 1, 2022; Ord. 4715 § 1, 2020; Ord. 4684 § 1, 2019; Ord. 4650 § 1, 2018; Ord. 4437 § 1, 2014; Ord. 4372 § 1, 2012; Ord. 4333 § 1, 2011; Ord. 4121 § 1, 2008; Ord. 4087 § 1, 2007; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007; Ord. 4065 § 1, 2006)
115.43 Garage Requirements for Detached Dwelling Units in Low Density Zones
1. Purpose and Intent – The intent of these regulations is to minimize the appearance of the garage when viewing the front facade of a house. To achieve this result, the following principles apply:
a. The garage doors, whenever practicable, should not be placed on the front facade of the house;
b. If the garage doors are on the front facade, the garage should be set back from the plane of the front facade closest to the street, access easement or tract;
c. The width of the garage face generally should be no more than the width of the remainder of the front facade; and
d. Garages with garage doors perpendicular to the street, access easement or tract (side-entry garages) should not have a blank wall on the front facade.
2. General Requirements
a. Detached dwelling units served by an open public alley, or an easement or tract serving as an alley, shall enter all garages from that alley;
b. Side-entry garages shall minimize blank walls by incorporating architectural details or windows on the front facade that complement the features of the remainder of the front facade.
3. Additional Requirements for Garages with Garage Doors on the Front Facade of the Detached Dwelling Unit
a. The garage may not extend closer to the abutting right-of-way than any other ground floor portion of the front facade of the detached dwelling unit (not including covered entry porches approved under KZC 115.115(3)(n)).
b. The garage width shall not exceed 50 percent of the total width of the front facade. (This standard shall not apply if the lot width, as measured at the back of the required yard for the front facade, is less than 55 feet.) The garage width shall be measured between the outermost edges of all garage doors on the front facade.
c. For purposes of this section, the width of the front facade shall not include those items located along the side facades described in KZC 115.115(3)(d), even if they are outside of a required yard.
4. Exemptions – The following are exempt from the requirements of subsection (3) of this section:
a. Houses on flag lots;
b. Houses with below-grade garages. For purposes of this exemption, a “below-grade garage” is one that has at least 75 percent of the area of the garage doors below the midpoint elevation(s) of the street, access easement or tract as it passes along the front of the garage.
5. Modification of Requirements – The Planning Official may modify the requirements of this section if the following criteria are met:
a. The modification is necessary because of the size, configuration, topography or location of the subject property, or the location of a preexisting improvement on the subject property that conformed to the Zoning Code in effect when the improvement was constructed. For purposes of this modification from requirements, a carport shall not be considered a preexisting improvement; and
b. The modification supports the purpose and intent of the garage setback regulations; and
c. The modification includes design details that minimize the dominant appearance of the garage when viewed from the street, access easement or tract (for example, casings; columns; trellises; windows; surface treatments or color; single-stall doors; door offsets; narrowed driveway widths; and/or enhanced landscaping); and
d. The modification will not have any substantial detrimental effect on nearby properties and the City as a whole.
(Ord. 4876 § 1, 2024; Ord. 4811 § 1, 2022; Ord. 4749 § 1, 2021; Ord. 4437 § 1, 2014; Ord. 4121 § 1, 2008)
115.45 Garbage and Recycling Receptacles and Enclosures – Storage Space, Placement and Screening
1. Purpose and Intent – The purpose of these regulations is to ensure the provision of areas for the collection, storage, loading and pickup of garbage and recyclable materials by requiring that adequate and convenient space is functionally located at all new projects, except as exempted in subsection (5) of this section.
For properties within jurisdiction of the Shoreline Management Act, see Chapter 83 KZC.
2. Storage Space – Space provided for garbage and recycling receptacles shall comply with Public Works Pre-approved Plans and Policies.
3. Placement – Garbage and recycling receptacles must comply with the following:
a. Be set back a minimum of five (5) feet from side property lines, 10 feet from rear property lines and 10 feet from front property lines; or
b. Comply with the setbacks established for the use with which they are associated;
c. Be located outside landscape buffers required by Chapter 95 KZC;
d. Be located to minimize visibility from any street, pedestrian walkway, or public park; and
e. Be located to provide convenient and safe access for residents, service vehicles and employees.
4. Screening – Garbage and recycling receptacles must be screened from view from the street and from adjacent properties by a solid screening enclosure. The screening shall meet or exceed the standards established in the Public Works Pre-approved Plans and Policies.
5. Exemptions
a. Detached dwelling units, two/three-unit homes, moorage facilities, parks, and construction sites are exempt from the requirements of this section.
b. A Public Works official may approve an exemption to the requirements of this section if the applicant proposes alternative, workable measures that meet the intent of this section.
(Ord. 4252 § 1, 2010; Ord. 4193 § 1, 2009; Ord. 4097 § 1, 2007; Ord. 3814 § 1, 2001)
115.47 Loading and Service Areas Placement and Screening
Loading and service areas must be located so they are not visible from any street or pedestrian walkway. If that location is not physically possible, loading and service areas must be screened from public view using a compact evergreen hedge, a solid wall or fence, or in a manner approved by the Planning Official.
For properties within jurisdiction of the Shoreline Management Act, see Chapter 83 KZC.
(Ord. 4252 § 1, 2010; Ord. 4097 § 1, 2007)
115.50 Glare Regulation
Any artificial surface which produces glare which annoys; injures; endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of persons; or in any way renders persons insecure in life, or in the use of property, is a violation of this code.
115.55 Heat Regulation
Heat generated by any activity or operation on the subject property which annoys; injures; endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of persons on abutting properties or streets; or in any way renders persons insecure in life or in the use of abutting property or streets is a violation of this code.
115.59 Height Regulations – Calculating Average Building Elevation (ABE)
1. General – ABE shall be calculated using the following formula:
ABE = (Mid-point Elevation) x (Length of Segment) +
(Mid-point Elevation) x (Length of Segment)
(Length of Segment) + (Length of Segment)
(See Plates 17A and 17B. The permit applicant may choose whether to use the simplified calculation as depicted in Plate 17A, Option 1, or the more complicated calculation as depicted in Plate 17B, Option 2.)
For both options, the ABE segments shall include decks and porches, unless the deck or porch has no walls at or below the deck level and no roof above the deck or porch, as well as cantilevered portions of a building which enclose interior space.
For Option 1, those items allowed to extend into required yards through KZC 115.115(3)(d) shall not be included within the square or rectangle.
For Option 2, those items allowed to extend into required yards through KZC 115.115(3)(d) shall be included in the wall segments.
For calculation of mid-point elevation, existing predevelopment grades shall be used, unless fill has been placed on the site, whether legally or illegally, within a 10-year period prior to the development application, in which case the grades prior to the placement of the fill shall be used.
2. Attached but Independent Building Units – When a building or structure contains townhouses or other attached but otherwise independent building units, the ABE is calculated separately for each unit.
3. Partially Underground Structures or Improvements – Building wall segments more than four (4) feet in height above finished grade and enclosing interior space shall be included in the height calculations.
(Ord. 4121 § 1, 2008; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007)
115.60 Height Regulations – Exceptions
1. General – No element or feature of a structure, other than as listed in subsection (2) of this section, may exceed the applicable height limitation established for each use in each use zone in Chapters 15 through 56 KZC.
For properties within jurisdiction of the Shoreline Management Act, see Chapter 83 KZC.
2. Exceptions
1) Vents and chimneys for a detached dwelling unit may exceed the maximum height limit.
2) Skylights may exceed the height limit by a maximum of six inches.
3) Rod, wire and dish antennas, to the extent they do not constitute personal wireless service facilities, which are subject to the provisions of Chapter 117 KZC, may not be placed above the maximum height allowed for any structure unless approved by the Planning and Building Director. The City will approve the application if it can be demonstrated that views across the subject property are not substantially impaired and that the antenna must be placed above the roofline in order to function properly. The decision of the Planning and Building Director in approving or denying a rod, wire, or dish antenna may be appealed using the appeal provision, as applicable, of Process I, KZC 145.60.
For the purposes of this subsection, “dish antenna” includes any antenna, whether or not it is of solid or mesh construction, designed or constructed so that the horizontal dimension of its microwave reflector or collector face equals or exceeds 30 percent of its vertical dimension. The phrase “rod or wire antenna” includes those antennas not falling within the definition of dish antenna and antennas for use by licensed amateur radio operators.
4) Solar panels on flat roof forms (less than 2:12) may exceed the height limit by a maximum of six inches.
b. Other Structures
1) Rooftop appurtenances and their screens, subject to KZC 115.120, including roof forms pursuant to KZC 115.120(3).
2) The provisions in Chapter 117 KZC related to personal wireless service facilities supersede the provisions of this section to the extent an appurtenance falls within the definition of a personal wireless service facility.
3) Skylights may exceed the height limit by a maximum of six inches.
4) Solar panels on sloped roof forms (greater than or equal to 2:12) may exceed height limits by a maximum of six inches. Solar panels on flat roof forms (less than 2:12) may exceed height limits by a maximum of 20 inches.
c. Radio Tower – A radio tower and antenna structure for use by a noncommercial, licensed amateur operator shall be allowed, if the Planning Official determines that:
1) A reasonable effort is made to minimize radio tower and antenna structure visibility from adjacent properties, while still permitting effective operation; and
2) The radio tower and antenna structure does not extend higher than reasonably necessary to operate effectively; and
3) The radio tower and antenna structure does not physically interfere with nearby utility lines.
Notice of filing application for building or other permit to construct a radio tower and/or antenna shall be given in the manner required by KZC 145.22 as to each such application which shows the proposed tower and/or antenna to either exceed the maximum allowable height for the zone in which it is located, or be within 20 feet of an electrical power or telecommunication utility line.
Any person believing a radio tower or antenna structure does not comply with the foregoing may request in writing a determination of compliance from the Planning and Building Director, providing such request is filed with the City and a copy delivered to the permit applicant within 14 days of the date of publication of the notice of filing. The Planning and Building Director shall make such determination utilizing Process I described in Chapter 145 KZC. In making his determination, the Planning and Building Director shall take into consideration the strong federal interest in promoting amateur communications and the rules adopted by the Federal Communications Commission in support of that interest to regulate the amateur service (47 CFR Part 97 and FCC PRB-1).
d. Structures Requiring Design Review – If a structure is reviewed through design review pursuant to Chapter 142 KZC and has a peaked roof, the peak may extend the following amount above the height limit:
1) Five feet, if the slope of the roof is equal to or greater than three feet vertical to 12 feet horizontal; or
2) As allowed by the underlying zone.
(Ord. 4811 § 1, 2022; Ord. 4476 § 3, 2015; Ord. 4350 § 1, 2012; Ord. 4252 § 1, 2010; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007; Ord. 3919 § 1, 2003; Ord. 3889 § 2, 2003)
115.62 High Performing Buildings
1. Purpose and Intent – The purpose of this section is to establish high performing building standards (HPBS) for developments in residential, commercial and mixed use zones to further reducing energy use in buildings and move towards decarbonizing the built environment. The benefits to occupants of these buildings are healthy indoor air quality, lower energy and water bills, and in some cases where solar and water collection is utilized, no energy or water bills. The benefits the community can expect are a reduction in pollution generation and water consumption, which in turn can promote public health and reduce natural resource use.
2. Requirements
a. To be considered a high performing building, a development shall be certified to meet the current versions of one or more of the following programs: International Living Future Institute’s (ILFI) Living Building Challenge™, Living Community Challenge™, Petal Recognition (energy, water and materials petals at a minimum), or Zero Energy™ (ZE) and Core programs; Built Green’s 4-Star™ program; the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design™ (LEED) Platinum program.
b. An applicant may propose, and the Planning Official may approve, alternative certification(s) if the Planning Official determines that the alternative certification(s) is equal or superior to the programs listed above in terms of the resulting building performance.
c. Proof of registration in one of the certification programs in subsection (2)(a) or (b) of this section must be provided prior to development permit submittal.
d. Performance Standards – All projects shall adhere to the following performance standards and show compliance with them at the time of the development permit submittal:
1) In zones where a maximum density is specified the development shall attain that maximum density, or exceed the maximum density through allowed bonuses;
2) Provide an embodied carbon assessment of existing and proposed buildings and set embodied carbon limits and reductions;
3) At least 20 percent of all required parking spaces shall be electric vehicle (EV) ready parking spaces. In addition, at least 10 percent of all required parking shall be EV ready parking spaces that are complete with a functioning electric vehicle charger;
4) All bicycle storage areas shall include electrical outlets to charge electric bicycles and other micro-mobility modes;
5) Provide a deconstruction and material diversion plan;
6) Achieve a reduction in water use in buildings and development by at least 20 percent over Washington State code requirements;
7) Demonstrate that buildings are all-electric. Excepted from this requirement are gas commercial cooking appliances; provided, that a corresponding and appropriately sized electrical outlet and all related infrastructure are installed for future replacement appliances.
(Ord. 4788 § 1, 2022)
115.65 Home Occupations
1. Purpose – The purpose of this section is to allow limited commercial activity incidental to residential use of a dwelling unit while ensuring all residents freedom from excessive noise, excessive traffic, nuisance, fire hazard, and other possible effects of commercial uses being conducted in residential neighborhoods.
2. Applicability – Home occupations are allowed as an accessory use to the residential use of a single-family, multifamily, or accessory dwelling unit, subject to the requirements of this chapter. A business license shall be required for all home occupations.
3. Residency – The location of the home occupation must be the principal residence of the person(s) conducting the home occupation.
4. Standards for Home Occupations – A home occupation may be conducted if it:
a. Is carried on by residents of the dwelling unit and, in addition, may involve no more than two (2) other business participants visiting the dwelling unit (or, for properties that contain an accessory dwelling unit, visiting the property) per day. “Other business participants” shall include non-family employees and independent contractors;
b. Has no outside storage, including equipment stored on vehicles;
c. Requires no alteration to the interior or exterior of the dwelling that changes its residential character;
d. Does not involve activities, including but not limited to the use of heavy equipment, power tools, power sources, hazardous materials, or other equipment or materials that result in noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odors, heat, traffic, parking, or other conditions that exceed, in duration or intensity, such conditions normally produced by a residential use;
e. Has, in addition to daily mail service, no more than a combined total of three (3) commercial and courier pickups and deliveries at the dwelling unit (or, for properties that contain an accessory dwelling unit, the property) per day, and no more than 10 such pickups and deliveries per week. Said pickups and deliveries shall occur between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.;
f. Occupies no more than 500 square feet of floor area, including any space in an accessory structure;
g. Includes no more than six (6) clients/customers per day and no more than two (2) clients/customers at any time visiting the dwelling unit (or, for properties that contain an accessory dwelling unit, visiting the property) for goods or services. A family arriving in a single vehicle shall be considered one (1) client. Client/customer visits to a home occupation shall be between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. (not applicable to a bed and breakfast house);
h. Operates no more than one (1) vehicle, van, truck or similar vehicle. The vehicle shall not exceed any of the following:
1) A gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds;
2) A height of nine (9) feet; and/or
3) A length of 22 feet;
The measurement of vehicle height and length shall include bumpers and any other elements that are required by federal or state law for the operation of the vehicle on public roads; and
i. Has no exterior indication other than one (1) building-mounted, non-illuminated sign with a maximum size of two (2) square feet;
j. For a bed and breakfast house, the following additional regulations apply in addition to those listed above:
1) It is operated by the owner of the dwelling in which it is located and it is the primary residence of the owner/operator;
2) There is a maximum of two (2) guest rooms;
3) Guests stay a maximum of 30 days;
4) Food service shall be limited to serving overnight guests of the establishment. Individual rooms shall not be equipped with cooking facilities;
5) The applicant may be required to provide up to one (1) parking stall per guest room. The applicant shall demonstrate the parking provided will be adequate based on the following criteria:
a) The number of guest rooms;
b) The number of permanent residents of the dwelling proposed for the bed and breakfast;
c) The number of parking stalls that can be accommodated in a garage or driveway; and
d) The number of legal on-street parking stalls immediately adjacent to the bed and breakfast;
6) Concentrations of Bed and Breakfast Houses – Where a bed and breakfast house is proposed within 500 feet of another bed and breakfast house, the applicant shall demonstrate that the neighborhood will not be adversely affected by the concentration.
5. A home occupation which does not meet one (1) or more of the requirements of subsection (4) of this section shall be reviewed under Process I, described in Chapter 145 KZC; provided, that the notice of application required by KZC 145.22(1) shall be distributed pursuant to the provisions of KZC 150.22(2) (Process IIA). An application for a home occupation under this section may be approved if the home occupation:
a. Will not harm the character of the surrounding neighborhood; and
b. Will not include outdoor storage and/or operation of building materials, machinery, commercial vehicles, or tools, except if it meets the following criteria:
1) Is appropriately screened from other properties;
2) Does not emit noise, odor, or heat; and
3) Does not create glare; and
c. Does not create a condition which injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of persons on abutting properties or streets; and
d. Will not generate excessive traffic or necessitate excessive parking; and
e. Will locate and screen any required or proposed site improvement in a manner that minimizes its view from surrounding properties or adjacent streets.
f. For bed and breakfast houses, there will be a maximum of four (4) guest rooms.
6. Enforcement – Upon determination that there has been a violation of any provision of this section, the City may pursue code enforcement in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 1.12 KMC, Code Enforcement.
(Ord. 4281 § 1, 2011; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007; Ord. 3954 § 1, 2004; Ord. 3814 § 1, 2001)
115.80 Legal Building Site
1. General – It is a violation of this code to erect any structure on or to use or occupy any lot or parcel unless that lot or parcel is a legal building site. A lot or parcel is a legal building site if it meets all of the following criteria:
a. It was created or segregated pursuant to all applicable laws, ordinances and regulations.
b. Except as specified in subsection (2) of this section, it meets the allowable minimum lot size established by this code.
c. It is either adjacent to, or has a legally created means of access to, a street providing access to the lot or parcel.
2. Exception, Detached Dwelling Units – An applicant may build one (1) detached dwelling unit on a lot or parcel regardless of the size of the lot or parcel if:
a. There is or ever has been a residence on the subject property. At any time, the applicant may remodel, rebuild, or enlarge that one (1) residence; provided, that all other Zoning Code requirements are met; or
b. The lot was created after the enactment of the lawful zoning code by the City of Kirkland (July 20, 1942) or King County (August 12, 1958) and the lot size was approved pursuant to all applicable laws, ordinances and regulations in effect at the time it was created; or
c. The lot was created before the enactment of the lawful zoning code by King County (August 12, 1958); it was annexed to the City of Kirkland in 2011; the lot size is at least 60 percent of minimum lot size applicable under current Kirkland zoning; and development shall comply with the restrictions of KMC 22.28.042(d); or
d. The lot lines defining the lot or parcel were recorded in the King County Assessor’s Office prior to May 17, 1972, and the lot or parcel has not simultaneously been owned by the owner of a contiguous lot or parcel which fronts on the same right-of-way subsequent to May 17, 1972.
(Ord. 4781 § 1, 2022; Ord. 4749 § 1, 2021; Ord. 4703 § 1, 2019; Ord. 4408 § 1, 2013; Ord. 3852 § 1, 2002)
115.85 Lighting Regulations
1. General Requirements – All interior and exterior lighting in any zone must comply with this section.
a. Efficient Light Sources – Energy-efficient light sources shall be used in any development and use of land.
b. State Code – The requirements of the Washington State Energy Code with respect to the selection and regulation of light sources shall be complied with.
c. Glare from Subject Property Prohibited – The applicant shall select, place and direct light sources so that glare produced by any light source, to the maximum extent possible, does not extend to adjacent properties or to the right-of-way.
2. Exterior Lighting Requirements for the Rose Hill Business District and for the Vehicle Sales Use in the TL 9A Zone in the Totem Lake Business District
a. General – In addition to the requirements of subsection (1) of this section, the following regulations contained in this section apply to all exterior lighting to be installed or modified in RH zones within the Rose Hill Business District, and for the Vehicle Sales use within the TL 9A zone in the Totem Lake Business District. The intent of this section is to discourage excessive lighting and to protect low density residential zones from adverse impacts that can be associated with light trespass from nonresidential and medium to high density residential development.
b. Standards – The following standards shall apply to all exterior lighting on buildings, all open air parking areas and equipment storage yards:
1) All exterior building-mounted and ground-mounted light fixtures for open air parking areas, including rooftop parking area light fixtures, shall be directed downward and use “fully shielded cut off” fixtures as defined by the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA), or other appropriate measure to conceal the light source from adjoining uses. Manufacturer specification sheets for the lighting fixtures including photometric data shall be included with lighting plans; and
2) All exterior lighting shall be turned off after business hours or 10:00 p.m., whichever is earlier, leaving necessary lighting for site security. Outdoor lighting used for security purposes or to illuminate walkways, roadways, equipment yards, parking lots and building entrances may remain on after 10:00 p.m., provided the following are met:
a) Light fixtures are mounted to a maximum of 12 feet high; and
b) Site illumination does not exceed a uniformity ratio maximum of 15:1, vertical illumination of 0.25 foot-candles and horizontal luminance of 0.5 foot-candles.
3) The maximum mounting height of ground-mounted light fixtures in open air parking areas and equipment storage yards shall be 20 feet. Rooftop parking structures may have light fixtures up to 15 feet in height. Height of light fixtures shall be measured from the finished floor or the finished grade of the parking surface, to the bottom of the light bulb fixture.
4) The maximum uniformity ratio of the illumination on the site shall average 20:1.
5) All development proposed within 100 feet of a low density residential zone shall submit a lighting plan and photometric site plan for approval by the Planning Official. The plan shall meet the requirements of this section and indicate at 20-foot intervals that all site- and building-mounted lighting fixtures will produce a maximum initial luminance value of 0.6 horizontal and vertical foot-candles (as measured at three (3) feet above grade) at the site boundary, and drop to 0.1 foot-candles onto the abutting residential-zoned property as measured within 15 feet from the residential-zoned property line.
c. Compliance – Exterior lighting in the Rose Hill Business District must be brought into compliance with the requirements of this section in any of the following situations:
1) Replacement – The shielding requirements of subsection (2)(b)(1) of this section shall be complied with when any nonconforming light fixture is replaced or moved.
2) Full Compliance – All other requirements of subsection (2) of this section shall be complied with when there is an increase in gross floor area of more than 25 percent to any structure on the subject property.
3. Exterior Lighting Requirements for the Shoreline Management Area – For properties within jurisdiction of the Shoreline Management Act, see Chapter 83 KZC.
(Ord. 4495 § 2, 2015; Ord. 4252 § 1, 2010; Ord. 4030 § 1, 2006)
115.87 Lot Size Flexibility
Within a subdivision or short plat, a reduction in the minimum lot size may be approved pursuant to subdivision design requirements in Chapter 22.28 KMC.
(Ord. 4437 § 1, 2014)
115.90 Calculating Lot Coverage
1. General – The area of all structures and any other hardscape on the subject property will be calculated as a percentage of total lot area. If the subject property contains more than one (1) use, the maximum lot coverage requirements for the predominant use will apply to the entire development. Lot area not calculated under lot coverage must be devoted to open space as defined in KZC 5.10.610.
The intent of these lot coverage regulations is to limit areas of hardscape, place an emphasis on landscaping, and to increase vegetated spaces throughout the City.
2. Exemptions – The following are exempt from the lot coverage calculation:
a. An access easement or tract that is not included in the calculation of lot size will not be used in calculating lot coverage for any lot it serves or crosses.
b. Areas of landscaping below eaves, balconies, and other cantilevered portions of buildings.
c. Planted areas at least two (2) feet wide and 40 square feet in area located over subterranean structures, with a minimum soil depth of 18 inches.
d. Rockeries and retaining walls, unless located adjacent to or within 12 inches of another impervious surface such as a patio, building or parking area.
e. Public sidewalk if located within a public easement on private property.
f. Hardscape surface under HVAC and similar types of mechanical equipment serving attached or detached dwelling unit uses. These exempt surfaces may not exceed 10 square feet for each dwelling unit.
3. Partially Exempt Materials – The following materials shall receive a 50 percent exemption for the area they cover. However, this exemption shall not exceed 10 percent of the total lot size.
a. Pavers no larger than 10 inches by 10 inches per individual paver.
b. Grassed modular grid pavement.
c. Open grid decking over non-hardscaped area.
d. Artificial turf.
Note that impervious surfaces may be further, or more stringently, regulated by the stormwater design manual adopted in KMC 15.52.060.
(Ord. 4781 § 1, 2022; Ord. 4684 § 1, 2019; Ord. 4547 § 1, 2016; Ord. 4350 § 1, 2012; Ord. 4252 § 1, 2010; Ord. 4121 § 1, 2008; Ord. 4097 § 1, 2007; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007; Ord. 3814 § 1, 2001)
115.95 Noise Regulations
1. Maximum Environmental Noise Levels
a. State Standard Adopted – The City of Kirkland adopts by reference the maximum environmental noise levels established pursuant to the Noise Control Act of 1974, Chapter 70.107 RCW. See Chapter 173-60 WAC.
2. Noise – Public Nuisance – Any noise which injures; endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of persons; or in any way renders persons insecure in life, or in the use of property, is a violation of this code. The operation of power equipment, including but not limited to leaf blowers, shall be deemed a public nuisance if such operation occurs during the following hours: before 8:00 a.m. or after 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or before 9:00 a.m. or after 6:00 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, or the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
3. See KZC 115.25 for requirements related to development activity (construction work that requires a permit).
4. Exceptions – Sounds created by emergency generators are exempt from the provisions of this section when:
a. Operating as necessary for their intended purpose during periods when there is no electrical service available from the primary supplier due to natural disaster or power outage;
b. Conducting periodic testing, as required by the manufacturer. Testing shall be limited to the hours after 8:00 a.m. and before 8:00 p.m.
5. Bonds – The City may require a bond under Chapter 175 KZC to insure compliance with the provisions of this section.
(Ord. 4437 § 1, 2014; Ord. 4286 § 1, 2011; Ord. 4121 § 1, 2008; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007)
115.100 Odor
1. General
Any odor which injures; endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of persons on abutting properties or streets; or in any way renders persons insecure in life, or in the use of abutting properties or streets, is a violation of this code.
2. Marijuana Processing and Production – Marijuana processing and production businesses must be equipped with a ventilation system that prevents marijuana odors from being detected beyond the premises of the business. Applicants for such businesses must submit, as part of building and mechanical permit applications, a ventilation plan prepared by a licensed mechanical engineer. The ventilation plan shall be reviewed and approved by the City. Once operation of the business begins, if odors are detected beyond the premises of the building, even with an approved ventilation plan, the facility shall be subject to code enforcement actions as outlined in Chapter 1.12 KMC.
(Ord. 4479 § 6, 2015)
115.105 Outdoor Use, Activity and Storage
1. Shoreline Management Area – For properties within jurisdiction of the Shoreline Management Act, see Chapter 83 KZC.
Uses and activities normally associated with a residential use are allowed unless Chapters 15 through 56 KZC limit outside activity for a residential use in a particular zone. The outdoor storage of firewood may be located within setback yards only if (1) it is stacked immediately adjacent to or within a supporting structure, (2) it is visually screened from adjoining properties by a building, solid screening fence, solid screening enclosure, dense evergreen landscaping, rockery or retaining wall, and (3) the height of the firewood stack does not exceed the greater of six (6) feet or the height of either the supporting structure or visual screen.
3. Commercial and Industrial Nonresidential Uses
a. General – Subject to the requirements of subsections (3)(b) through (f) of this section, the uses and activities that are allowable on a site may be conducted out of doors unless Chapters 15 through 56 KZC limit outside activity for a particular use in a particular zone.
b. Site Plan – The applicant shall submit for approval, to the Planning and Building Department, a site plan drawn to scale consisting of the following items:
1) Locations and dimensions of all structures and fences on site; and
2) Locations and dimensions of all parking and driving areas on site; and
3) Locations and dimensions of all existing and proposed outdoor use, activity or storage areas; and
4) Locations and description of all existing landscape buffering on site; and
5) The duration of time for which the outdoor use, activity or storage is intended.
c. Specific Use and Development Requirements – The City will administratively review and either approve or deny any application for outdoor use, activity and storage based on the following standards:
1) All outdoor use, activity and storage areas must comply with required buffers for the primary use.
2) A minimum 6-foot-high solid screening fence or other appropriate screening approved by the Planning and Building Department is required around the outside edges of the area devoted to the outdoor use, activity or storage. The fence shall be measured above finished grade except when the outdoor storage abuts a sidewalk, in which case the six (6) feet must be above the sidewalk.
3) Outdoor use, activity or storage areas located adjacent to nonresidential zones may be located in the required side and rear setback yards; except, that all outdoor use, activity and storage areas located adjacent to residential zones, or adjacent to residential uses within nonresidential zones, must meet required setbacks for the primary use.
4) If the outdoor storage area is surrounded on all sides by property zoned for industrial use, then the height of the outdoor storage shall not exceed the height of the primary structure. In all other cases, the height of items related to outdoor use, activity or storage shall not exceed six (6) feet above finished grade.
5) The outdoor use, activity or storage area shall not inhibit the safe vehicular and pedestrian movement to, from and on the subject property in accordance with the requirements of the Zoning Code and standards of the Fire Department, Planning and Building Department and the Public Works Department.
6) For the purposes of this code, an outdoor use, activity or storage area will be used in calculating the gross floor area of a use or development if this area will be used as an outdoor use, activity or storage area for at least two (2) months in every year; except, that outdoor cafes may be operated for six (6) months before being used in calculating the gross floor area of the use or development.
7) If located on an unimproved area of the site, the underlying ground must be improved as required by the Department of Public Works and Planning and Building Department, and no trees over six (6) inches in caliper may be cut.
d. Exceptions to Outdoor Use, Activity or Storage – The following outdoor uses and activities, when located in commercial and industrial zones, are exempt from the requirements of this section as stated below:
1) Exceptions to subsections (2)(c)(1) through (5) of this section; provided, that a temporary certificate of occupancy from the Planning and Building Department is obtained:
a) Outdoor Christmas tree lots and fireworks stands if these uses will not exceed 30 days.
b) Outdoor amusement rides, carnivals and circuses, and parking lot sales which are ancillary to the indoor sale of the same goods and services if these uses will not exceed seven (7) days.
2) See KZC 95.43 for exceptions to subsections (2)(c)(1) and (2)(c)(2) of this section.
e. Modification – The applicant may request a modification of the requirements of subsections (b) through (d) of this section by submitting a written request with their site plan to the Planning and Building Department for review. The Planning Official may approve a modification if:
1) The modification will not create a greater impact on any nearby residential use than would be created without the modification; and
2) The modification will not detract from the character of nearby uses; and
3) The modification will not be injurious to public health, safety or welfare; and
4) The modification complies with the Comprehensive Plan.
f. Appeals of Outdoor Use, Activity and Storage Modification Requests
1) Who Can Appeal – Any person who is aggrieved by a determination regarding a modification for outdoor use, activity or storage may appeal that determination at any time.
2) How To Appeal – The applicant must file a letter of appeal indicating how the determination affects his/her property and present any relevant arguments or information on the correctness of the determination. The applicant shall include the appeals fee as established by ordinance.
3) Applicable Procedures – All appeals and determinations of this chapter will be reviewed and decided upon using Process IIA described in Chapter 150 KZC.
(Ord. 4650 § 1, 2018; Ord. 4491 § 3, 2015; Ord. 4476 § 3, 2015; Ord. 4238 § 2, 2010; Ord. 4010 § 3, 2005; Ord. 3858 § 1, 2002)
115.106 Personal Delivery Devices
An eligible entity operating a personal delivery device (PDD) as defined under Chapter 46.75 RCW may operate on private property in commercial zones, office zones, and industrial zones, and on institutional property within the PLA 1, PLA 14 zones consistent with the following standards:
1. The operation and storage of PDDs shall be reviewed as a Planning and Building Director decision. An eligible entity must demonstrate that their proposal meets the standards established in this section.
The decision of the Planning and Building Director in approving or denying an application to operate and store PDDs under this section may be appealed using the appeal provisions, as applicable, of Process I, KZC 145.60.
2. Prior to any decision, the eligible entity shall submit to the Planning and Building Director a letter signed by the owner of the property approving the location, time, and manner to which PDDs will operate and be stored on said property. The application shall include an affidavit certifying that the applicant has notified all staff, students, and tenants (if any) on the subject property of the proposed PDD operation and storage.
3. The operation and storage of PDDs shall not inhibit the safe vehicular and pedestrian movement to, from and on the subject property in accordance with the requirements of the Zoning Code and standards of the Fire Department, Planning and Building Department, and the Public Works Department.
4. PDD storage shall be located within existing structures or, if located within a separate structure, shall be consistent with the following standards:
a. If the storage area is located within a Design District, it shall conform with the design regulations in Chapter 92 KZC.
b. Storage areas located adjacent to nonresidential zones may be located in the required side and rear setback yards; except that all storage areas located adjacent to residential zones, or adjacent to residential uses within nonresidential zones, must meet required setbacks for the primary use.
c. If the storage area is surrounded on all sides by property zoned for industrial use, then the height of the storage shall not exceed the height of the primary structure. In all other cases, the storage area shall not exceed 12 feet in height.
d. If located on an unimproved area of the site, the underlying ground must be improved as required by the Department of Public Works and Planning and Building Department, and no regulated trees, six inches in diameter at breast height (DBH) or greater, may be removed. If impacts are proposed within the critical root zone (CRZ) of existing regulated trees, a report prepared by a qualified professional arborist is required and must meet the standards pursuant to KZC 95.30(3)(c).
e. The required parking and loading spaces for the primary use and the PDD storage and operation must be provided on site. The parking area requirements for the PDD and storage use will be reviewed pursuant to KZC 105.25 and a parking study may be required.
f. The storage area shall comply with the required land use buffer for the primary use as established in KZC 95.42.
g. The storage area shall conform to lighting regulations of KZC 115.85.
h. The storage area shall conform to noise regulations of KZC 115.95.
i. All signage shall conform to the same sign category as the primary use and applicable requirements of Chapter 100 KZC.
5. The eligible entity shall maintain liability insurance consistent with the requirements of RCW 46.75.202(4).
6. An eligible entity shall obtain a business license to operate and store PDDs in the City.
7. The eligible entity shall file with the City an agreement, approved by the City, wherein the operator agrees to defend, save, and hold harmless the City of Kirkland.
(Ord. 4836 § 1, 2023)
115.107 Public Utility, Electrical Transmission Lines
1. Purpose – The purpose of this section is to regulate proposals for new electrical transmission lines and to address the impacts associated with such facilities on surrounding areas by minimizing visual and environmental impacts. These facilities are necessary to support growth in the community but typically do have negative impacts in some locations and conditions. The review process is intended to provide the City with a mechanism to weigh alternatives and impacts associated with a project. Because these facilities typically cross multiple zoning districts, this section also provides a consistent and consolidated review process.
2. General – The following regulations shall apply to the installation of new electrical transmission lines.
3. Required Review – Applications for new electrical transmission lines shall be reviewed pursuant to Process IIA, described in Chapter 150 KZC.
4. Decisional Criteria – In addition to the criteria established in Chapter 150 KZC, the City may approve an electrical transmission line only if it finds that, based on the siting and design analysis, the applicant has demonstrated that the proposal, to the extent technically and operationally feasible, has been sited and designed to minimize and mitigate impacts to:
a. Critical areas, critical area buffers, and significant trees as regulated in applicable chapters of the KZC; and
b. Views from public properties and rights-of-way that are designated in the Comprehensive Plan; and
c. Schools and residential areas.
5. Siting and Design Analysis – As part of an application, the applicant shall submit a siting and design analysis describing how the proposed route and project design was selected. The analysis shall include an assessment of:
a. How the proposal addresses the City’s decisional criteria and justifies the proposed siting and design relative to those criteria;
b. Potential technologies and design features that would mitigate the visual and environmental impacts associated with the transmission line;
c. Potential technologies and design features that would mitigate radio frequency interference with existing high-technology uses identified along the proposed route in compliance with applicable NESC standards, IEEE guidelines and FCC requirements.
Examples of mitigating technologies and design features include: design, placement and height of the support structures; landscaping and screening; tree retention and restoration; noise reduction; and specific construction techniques. The analysis shall be limited to those alternatives and design features that meet the system needs of the project.
(Ord. 4811 § 1, 2022; Ord. 4520 § 1, 2016)
115.110 Radiation
Ionizing radiation is defined and regulated by the state of Washington pursuant to Chapter 70.98 RCW. Any complaint, inquiry, or violation regarding ionizing radiation within the City of Kirkland will be referred to the Department of Social and Health Services.
115.115 Required Yards
1. General – This section establishes what structures, improvements, and activities may be in or take place in required yards as established for each use in each zone in Chapters 15 through 56 KZC.
2. Exceptions and Limitations in Some Zones – Chapters 15 through 56 KZC contain specific regulations regarding what may be located in required yards. Chapter 83 KZC contains specific regulations regarding what may be located in the required shoreline setback. Where applicable, those specific regulations supersede the provisions of this section.
3. Structures and Improvements – No improvement or structure may be in a required yard except as follows:
a. A driveway and/or parking area subject to the standards of subsection (5) of this section.
b. Any improvement or structure, other than a driveway and/or parking area, that is not more than four inches above finished grade may be anywhere in a required setback yard; provided, that minor utility structures such as transformers, telephone poles, guide wires, and electrical boxes may be located anywhere within a required setback if there is no feasible location within the public right-of-way and prior approval of the City is obtained; and provided further, that any franchise agreement between the City and a utility company shall supersede this section. A bridge is allowed anywhere in a required setback yard regardless of its height above finished grade.
c. An improvement or structure that is not more than 18 inches above finished grade may extend not more than five feet into a required yard.
d. Chimneys, bay windows, greenhouse windows, eaves, cornices, awnings, and canopies may extend up to 18 inches into any required yard, subject to the limitations of this section. Eaves on bay windows may extend an additional 18 inches beyond the bay window. The total horizontal dimension of the elements that extend into a required yard, excluding eaves and cornices, may not exceed 25 percent of the length of the facade of the structure. Chimneys, bay windows, greenhouse windows, cornices, awnings, and/or canopies attached to dwelling units and their accessory structures located in low density zones may not extend closer than four feet to any property line. See Plate 10.
e. Minor improvements such as garden sculpture, light fixtures, trellises and similar decorative structures may be located in required yards if it is determined by the Planning Official that they will not have any substantial detrimental effect on abutting properties or the City as a whole.
f. Fences and railings may be located in required yards subject to the fence regulations contained within this chapter.
g. Rockeries and Retaining Walls
1) Rockeries and retaining walls may be a maximum of four feet high in a required yard.
The Planning Official may approve a modification to that height limit if it is necessary because of the size, configuration, topography or location of the subject property, and either:
a) The design of the rockery or retaining wall includes terraces deep enough to incorporate vegetation, or other techniques that reduce the visual mass of the wall; or
b) The modification will not have any substantial detrimental effect on abutting properties or the City as a whole.
2) The combined height of fences and retaining walls within five feet of each other in a required yard may be a maximum of six feet.
The Planning Official may approve a modification to the combined height limit for fences and retaining walls if:
a) An open guard railing is required by the Building Code and the height of the guard railing does not exceed the minimum required; or
b) The modification is necessary because of the size, configuration, topography or location of the subject property, and either:
i. The design of the rockery or retaining wall includes terraces deep enough to incorporate vegetation or other techniques that reduce the visual mass of the wall, and the fence is designed to be no more than 50 percent solid; or
ii. The modification will not have any substantial detrimental effect on abutting properties or the City as a whole.
h. Improvements associated with shoreline public use and access areas may be located in any required yard and the shoreline setback. The landward end of a pier may be located in the shoreline setback.
i. See subsection (5) of this section for regulations on parking areas.
j. Those structures and improvements permitted in required yards by KZC 115.105.
k. Signs may be located in required yards subject to KZC 100.75 and 115.135.
l. Covered walkways in commercial, office, and industrial zones may be permitted in required yards. Covered walkways may be no more than eight feet wide and 10 feet tall and may not be enclosed along the sides.
m. For uses in low density residential zones, and for residential uses in other zones, the applicant may request a modification to locate no more than one storage shed in a required yard; provided, that no storage sheds are allowed in a required front yard. The Planning Official may approve a modification if:
1) The proposed structure is no more than eight feet tall; and
2) The maximum length of the side of the proposed structure parallel to the affected property line(s) shall not exceed 10 feet. The structure shall not exceed 120 square feet in total area; and
3) No reasonable alternative location may be found due to special circumstances regarding the size, shape, topography, or location of the subject property or the location of legal or legally nonconforming preexisting improvements of the subject property; and
4) The modification will not create a significant negative impact on the character of nearby residential properties.
If approved, the Planning Official may require the storage shed to be screened by a solid screening fence or dense vegetation.
The decision of the Planning Official in approving or denying a modification for a storage shed may be appealed using the appeal provision, as applicable, of Process I, KZC 145.60 through 145.110.
n. In residential zones, covered entry porches on dwelling units may be located within 13 feet of the front property line, if:
1) The porch is covered and no higher than one story and the finished floor of the porch is no more than four feet above finished grade;
2) Three sides of the porch are open;
3) The porch roof form is architecturally compatible with the roof form of the dwelling unit to which it is attached;
4) No deck, balcony, or living area is placed on the roof of the porch within the required front yard;
5) If on attached or stacked dwelling units, the width of the porch does not exceed 50 percent of the facade to which it is attached;
6) Allowed exceptions to the above criteria are:
a) Solid walls or railings may extend up to 42 inches above the porch floor;
b) Eaves on the porch roof may extend an additional 18 inches into the required front yard;
c) Stairs may extend an additional five feet into the required front yard.
For the purpose of this section, covered parking areas or driveways shall not be considered an entry porch.
o. In low density residential zones:
1) Detached garages, including second story uses, utilizing an alley for their primary vehicular access may be located within five feet of the rear property line, if:
a) Garage doors will not extend over the property line when open; and
b) The garage complies with KZC 115.135, which regulates sight distance at intersections.
2) Detached garages, including second story uses, utilizing an alley for their primary vehicular access may extend to the rear property line, if:
a) The lot is 50 feet wide at the rear property line on the alley;
b) The garage has side access with garage doors that are perpendicular to the alley;
c) The garage eaves do not extend over the property line; and
d) The garage complies with KZC 115.135, which regulates sight distance at intersections.
3) Garages and detached accessory dwelling units without alley access may be located no closer than five feet of the rear property line; provided, that:
a) The portion of the structure that is located within the required rear yard is no taller than 15 feet above average building elevation; and
b) The rear yard does not abut an access easement that is regulated as a rear property line.
4) Detached accessory dwelling units may be located within five feet of an alley.
5) Structures permitted under this subsection may include the elements allowed in required yards identified in subsection (3)(d) of this section; provided, that:
a) The elements do not extend more than 18 inches from the structure permitted herein;
b) The elements do not extend over the rear property line; and
c) The total horizontal dimension of the elements, excluding eaves and cornices, may not exceed 25 percent of the length of the facade of the structure.
p. HVAC and similar types of mechanical equipment may be placed no closer than five feet to a front, side, or rear property line, and may only be located in a required front yard for single-family residential uses pursuant to subsection (3)(p)(2) of this section; provided, that such equipment may be located in a storage shed approved pursuant to subsection (3)(m) of this section or a garage approved pursuant to subsection (3)(o)(2) of this section. All HVAC and similar types of mechanical equipment shall meet the standards below:
1) For properties other than single-family residential, HVAC and similar types of mechanical equipment shall be surrounded by landscaping or a solid screening enclosure, or located in such a manner that they are not visible from adjoining properties or rights-of-way;
2) HVAC and similar types of mechanical equipment may be located in required front yards when there is no feasible alternative location outside of the required front yard; provided, that such equipment shall be surrounded by landscaping or a solid screening enclosure, or located in such a manner that it is not visible from adjoining properties or rights-of-way;
3) The HVAC and similar types of mechanical equipment shall not violate KZC 115.95 (Noise Regulations) or KZC 115.100 (Odor), or create undue heat or vibration on the adjoining property;
4) The Planning Official may approve a modification to the locational provisions of this section for HVAC and similar types of mechanical equipment that are replacing legally nonconforming equipment where no increase in the footprint of the equipment is proposed.
q. Insulation, installed in or on an existing structure, may encroach eight inches into a required yard unless precluded by fire or building codes.
4. Outdoor Uses, Activities and Storage – For regulations on outdoor uses, activities and storage, see KZC 115.105.
5. Driveways and Parking Areas – Driveways and parking areas are not allowed in required yards except as follows:
a. Detached Dwelling Units, Duplexes, and Two-Unit Homes and Three-Unit Homes Approved Under Chapter 113 KZC
1) General – Vehicles may be parked in the required front or rear yard if parked on a driveway and/or parking area. For the purpose of this section, vehicles are limited to those devices or contrivances which can carry or convey persons or objects and which are equipped as required by federal or state law for operation on public roads. A driveway and/or parking area shall not exceed 20 feet in width in any required front yard, and shall be separated from other hard-surfaced areas located in the required front yard by a landscape strip at least 18 inches in width. This landscape strip may be interrupted by a walkway or pavers providing a lateral connection from the driveway to other hard-surfaced areas, as long as such walkway or pavers do not exceed five feet in width. A driveway and/or parking area shall not be closer than five feet to any side property line (see Plate 14); provided:
a) That where access to a legally established lot is provided by a panhandle or vehicle access easement measuring less than 20 feet in width, a driveway not exceeding 10 feet in width, generally centered in the panhandle or access easement, shall be permitted (see Plate 14A); and
b) That for flag lots, a five-foot setback is not required from any side property line that abuts a neighboring lot that was part of the same plat.
c) That any driveway which generally parallels a right-of-way or easement road shall be set back at least five feet from the right-of-way or easement, except for a 20-foot-wide section where the driveway connects with the right-of-way or easement. Such driveway shall not have a width of more than 10 feet within the front or rear yard (see Plate 14B) and shall be separated from other hard-surfaced areas located in the front or rear yard by a landscape strip at least five feet in width. Where more than one driveway is permitted within a front or rear yard, those driveways shall be separated by a landscape strip at least five feet in width.
2) Exception – Driveways and/or parking areas may exceed 20 feet in width if:
a) The driveway/parking area serves a three-car garage; and
b) The subject property is at least 60 feet in width; and
c) The garage(s) is (are) located no more than 40 feet from the front property line; and
d) The driveway/parking area flares from 20 feet at the property line to a maximum of 30 feet in width.
3) The Planning Official may approve a modification to the driveway and/or setback requirements in subsection (5)(a)(1) of this section if:
a) The Public Works Department requires an on-site vehicular turnaround adjacent to the driveway, which must be the minimum necessary dimension as determined by the Public Works Department; or
b) The existing topography of the subject property or the abutting property decreases or eliminates the need for the setback; or
c) The location of pre-existing improvements or vegetation on the abutting site eliminates the need for or benefit of a setback; and
d) The modification will not have any substantial detrimental effect on abutting properties or the City as a whole.
b. Vehicle parking areas for schools and day-care centers greater than 12 students shall have a minimum 20-foot setback from all property lines.
c. Other Uses – Parking areas and driveways for uses other than those addressed in subsections (5)(a) and (b) of this section may be located within required setback yards, but, except for the portion of any driveway which connects with an adjacent street, not closer than five feet to any property line. Where this provision conflicts with a regulation of a specific zone, the regulation of the specific zone shall govern.
d. Shared Parking and Shared Driveways – If a parking area or driveway serves two adjacent uses, the shared parking area or driveway may be anywhere in the required setback yard between the uses.
e. Exceptions for Projects Requiring Design Review – If a project is reviewed through design review pursuant to Chapter 142 KZC, the driveway shall comply with parking area location and design requirements as determined by the Design Review Board.
(Ord. 4811 § 1, 2022; Ord. 4749 § 1, 2021; Ord. 4720 § 1, 2020; Ord. 4715 § 1, 2020; Ord. 4703 § 1, 2019; Ord. 4650 § 1, 2018; Ord. 4476 § 3, 2015; Ord. 4437 § 1, 2014; Ord. 4372 § 1, 2012; Ord. 4350 § 1, 2012; Ord. 4252 § 1, 2010; Ord. 4121 § 1, 2008; Ord. 4120 § 1, 2007; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007; Ord. 4065 § 1, 2006; Ord. 3954 § 1, 2004; Ord. 3852 § 1, 2002; Ord. 3814 § 1, 2001)
115.120 Rooftop Appurtenances
The intent of these rooftop appurtenance regulations is to specify height allowances for such items above the maximum height of structure. Regulations for rooftop appurtenances recognize that the rooftop can be a practical place for building utilities and that access to rooftops often requires additional height.
1. Scope – The regulations contained in this section apply to all construction except: (a) single-family residential, and (b) personal wireless service facilities regulated by Chapter 117 KZC.
For properties within jurisdiction of the Shoreline Management Act, see Chapter 83 KZC.
2. Abandonment – Rooftop appurtenances which are abandoned or no longer serve the building or tenant space with which they are associated shall be removed by the building owner within 90 days of the date they were abandoned or discontinued service. Appurtenances associated with buildings or tenant spaces which are vacant but which are undergoing renovation and/or are available for lease or rent shall not be considered abandoned.
3. Required Screening for Rooftop Appurtenances
a. New construction shall, to the extent feasible, visually screen rooftop appurtenances by incorporating them into the roof form, or by using architectural designs such as clerestories having a slope of at least three (3) feet vertical to 12 feet horizontal or roof wells. Such roof forms and architectural designs may extend five (5) feet above the height limit (see Plate 30).
b. New or replacement appurtenances on existing buildings and new appurtenances on new buildings where compliance with subsection (3)(a) of this section is not feasible shall be surrounded by a solid screening enclosure equal in height to the appurtenances being screened. The screen must be integrated into the architecture of the building.
c. A rooftop appurtenance screened by alternative measures, including but not limited to landscaping maintained at a height equal to the height of the appurtenance, painting to match the building roof and/or façade, or the use of pre-manufactured self-screening appurtenances, is exempt from the requirements of subsections (3)(a) and (b) of this section if the Planning Official determines that such alternative screening will be as effective in minimizing rooftop clutter as a solid screening enclosure.
d. Exemptions
1) Rod, wire, and dish antennas approved pursuant to KZC 115.60(2) are exempt from the requirements of subsections (3)(a) and (b) of this section where screening would interfere with the effective operation of these antennas.
4. Allowable Height and Size – Rooftop Appurtenances
a. Any rooftop appurtenance may exceed the maximum height of structure by a maximum of four (4) feet if the area of all appurtenances and screening does not exceed 10 percent of the total area of the building footprint (see Plate 31). Elevators and equipment and/or stair enclosures allowed under subsection (4)(b) of this section shall be included in the area calculation towards the maximum 10 percent.
b. For stacked dwelling units and commercial buildings, rooftop appurtenances necessary to access rooftop amenities, such as elevators and associated equipment and/or stair enclosures, may extend above the maximum height of structure for the zone beyond the allowance in subsection (4)(a) of this section, provided:
1) The elevator and associated equipment and/or stair enclosure height is the minimum necessary for rooftop access and does not exceed 15 feet above the maximum height of structure. For buildings with a height limit of 85 feet or taller, the additional height allowance for elevators and associated equipment and/or stair enclosures shall be 20 feet. The height allowances for elevators and/or stair enclosures shall be measured above the roof of the rooftop amenity room if they provide access to a rooftop amenity room. See also subsection (4)(b)(4) of this section.
2) Elevators and associated equipment may include an enclosed entry/exit vestibule matching the height of the elevator, but not exceeding the minimum area required by the building code.
3) The stair enclosure, including the top landing of stairs, does not exceed the minimum area required by the building code.
4) Rooftop appurtenances necessary to access rooftop amenities, such as elevators and associated equipment and/or stair enclosures, proposed where the subject property is partially, or wholly, adjoining low-density residential zones may only be approved through the modification process in subsection (4)(c) of this section.
c. The Planning Official may approve a modification to the standards of subsection (4)(a) of this section if:
1) No reasonable alternative to the increased height or size exists, such as utilizing alternative equipment design or technology or locating the appurtenances at or below grade or within the structure, and the amount of increase and the size of the appurtenance and its screening is the minimum amount necessary; and
2) The applicant submits accurate graphic representations or other information that demonstrate that:
a) Views from adjoining properties will not be significantly blocked by the appurtenance(s); and
b) Visibility of the appurtenances from adjoining properties and streets will be minimized; and
c) Aesthetic impacts resulting from the increased height and/or area will be minimized through appropriate screening, architectural integration, and/or location or consolidation of the appurtenance(s); and
3) The height of the appurtenance, except for elevators and associated equipment and/or stair enclosures, shall in no event exceed the height of the story immediately below the appurtenance; and
4) In no event shall the total area occupied by rooftop appurtenances or enclosed within their screening exceed 25 percent the total area of the building footprint.
d. The Planning Official shall not approve or deny a modification pursuant to subsection (4)(c) of this section without first providing notice of the modification request to the owners and residents of each adjoining property and providing opportunity for comment. Said comment period shall not be less than seven (7) calendar days. The fee for processing a modification request shall be as established by City ordinance.
5. Optional Locations – As an option to placing appurtenances on the roof, appurtenances may be located in a parking structure, subject to the following:
1) The appurtenances are located or screened in such a manner that they are not visible from adjoining properties or rights-of-way; and
2) The appurtenances will not violate KZC 115.95 (Noise Regulations) or KZC 115.100 (Odor) or create undue heat or vibration on the adjoining property.
3) If the parking structure would otherwise contain 10 or more parking stalls, the parking may be reduced by the amount necessary, but by no more than two (2) parking stalls, to provide the physical space required to accommodate the appurtenances. See also KZC 115.115(3)(p).
6. Review Authority – If a rooftop appurtenance modification requiring approval through a Planning Official decision pursuant to subsection (4)(c) of this section is part of a proposal that requires additional approval through Design Review, Process I, Process IIA or Process IIB, the entire proposal shall be decided upon using that other process.
(Ord. 4855 § 1, 2023; Ord. 4720 § 1, 2020; Ord. 4252 § 1, 2010; Ord. 4121 § 1, 2008; Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007; Ord. 3954 § 1, 2004; Ord. 3919 § 1, 2003; Ord. 3814 § 1, 2001)
115.122 Rooftop Amenities and Rooftop Common Rooms
The intent of these rooftop amenity and common room regulations is to specify height and size allowances for such items above the maximum height of structure. These regulations do not apply to rooftop amenities and rooftop common rooms that are below the maximum height of structure. These additional height allowances for rooftop amenities and rooftop common rooms are intended to encourage the provision of common space on the rooftop to serve stacked dwelling units and commercial building occupants while protecting adjoining low-density residential uses from possible adverse impacts.
1. Scope – The regulations contained in this section apply only to structures containing stacked dwelling units and/or commercial uses, where no portion of the subject property is adjoining a low-density residential zone.
2. Noise – Rooftop amenities and amenity spaces, and rooftop common rooms, are subject to the noise regulations described in KZC 115.95.
3. Lighting – Rooftop amenities and amenity spaces, and rooftop common rooms, are subject to the below lighting standards:
a. Lighting regulations described in KZC 115.85(1);
b. All exterior light fixtures shall be directed downward and use “fully shielded cut off” fixtures as defined by the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA), or other appropriate measure to conceal the light source from adjoining uses. Manufacturer specification sheets for the lighting fixtures including photometric data shall be included with lighting plans; and
c. All exterior lighting associated with rooftop amenities and amenity spaces, and rooftop common rooms, shall be turned off after business hours or 10:00 p.m., whichever is later, with the exception of necessary lighting for site security. On portions of property adjoining low density residential zones, such lighting shall be turned off after business hours or 10:00 p.m., whichever is earlier. Outdoor lighting used to illuminate walkways and building entrances may remain on after 10:00 p.m.
4. Access – Rooftop amenities and rooftop common rooms that exceed the maximum structure height shall be available to all residents of a multifamily structure or to all tenants of a commercial structure, with no additional fee for access required. For mixed-use structures, access requirements shall be based on the predominant use of that structure. Rooftop amenities and rooftop commons rooms that exceed the maximum structure height shall not provide exclusive use to any specific units/suites or group of units/suites.
5. Allowable Height and Size – Rooftop Amenities
a. Rooftop amenities surrounded by approved guards or railings may exceed the maximum height of the structure for the zone by a maximum of four (4) feet.
b. Guards or railings enclosing rooftop amenities space may exceed the maximum height of the structure for the zone by a maximum of four (4) feet and shall be set back from the building edge a minimum of five (5) feet. Railings shall be of a transparent or majority-open design such as glass, cabling, picket, or other similar types of railings. Where the applicable zone allows parapets to exceed the maximum height of structure, setback and transparency standards do not apply to the parapet when it is used as the railing.
c. Rooftop amenities may not exceed the maximum structure height if any portion of the subject property adjoins a low-density residential zone.
6. Allowable Height and Size – Rooftop Common Room – Provided, that no portion of the subject property adjoins a low density residential zone, the Planning Official may approve the addition of a rooftop common room if:
a. The applicant submits accurate graphic representations or other information that demonstrates that:
1) Views from adjoining properties will not be significantly blocked by the rooftop common room; and
2) The location and orientation of the rooftop common room is such that the visibility of the rooftop common room from adjoining properties and streets will be minimized; and
3) All walls of the rooftop common room must contain transparent windows comprising at least 75 percent of the area of the facade between two (2) feet and seven (7) feet above floor level. This requirement does not apply to elevators and stair enclosures attached to a rooftop common room; and
4) The rooftop common room is architecturally integrated with the building design; and
b. The height of the rooftop common room shall not exceed 15 feet or the height of the story immediately below the rooftop common room, whichever is less; and
c. The area of the rooftop common room, measured to the outermost exterior element, shall not exceed 500 square feet or 10 percent of building footprint, whichever is less. The minimum floor area required by building code for elevators and associated equipment and/or stair enclosures shall be exempt from the maximum area calculation for the rooftop common room; and
d. The rooftop common room is set back from any building edge at a distance equal to the height of tallest point of the room above the roof deck; and
e. The applicant provides one (1) of the following public benefit items in addition to the rooftop common room:
1) A landscaped and vegetated area, or an area designed and constructed as a green roof, equal to the square footage of the rooftop common room and showing the landscape plan requirements set forth in KZC 95.40(3), or
2) A street-level public plaza equal to the square footage of the rooftop common room, or
3) Public use of the rooftop common room, either as public access or as use of the rooftop common room as publicly accessible retail, restaurant, or similar space.
f. The Planning Official shall not approve or deny the addition of a rooftop common room pursuant to this subsection without first providing notice of the modification request to the owners and residents of each adjoining property and providing opportunity for comment. Said comment period shall not be less than seven (7) calendar days. The fee for processing a modification request shall be as established by City ordinance.
7. Review Authority – If a rooftop common room requiring approval through a Planning Official decision pursuant to subsection (3) of this section is part of a proposal that requires additional approval through Design Review, Process I, Process IIA or Process IIB, the entire proposal shall be decided upon using that other process.
(Ord. 4720 § 1, 2020)
115.125 Rounding of Fractions of Dwelling Units
In many zones, the number of dwelling units allowed on the subject property is determined by dividing the lot size by the number of square feet this code requires per unit. When this results in a fraction, the number of permitted dwelling units shall be rounded up to the next whole number (unit) if the fraction of the whole number is at least 0.50.
(Ord. 4252 § 1, 2010)
115.135 Sight Distance at Intersections
This section establishes that areas around all intersections, including the entrance of driveways onto streets, must be kept clear of sight obstruction. The extent of these areas depends on a number of factors. Refer to the Public Works Department’s Pre-Approval Plan (operational policy standards) for the types of intersections and the regulations applicable to each intersection, and what may be in the area that is to be kept clear of sight obstructions.
(Ord. 4000 §§ 1, 2, 3, 2005)
115.136 Size Limitations for Structures Abutting or Within Low Density Zones and Abutting Low Density Uses in PLA 17
1. In zones where the general regulations require compliance with this section, any portion of a structure greater than 15 feet in height shall be no greater than 50 feet in length within 30 feet of the following:
a. A parcel in a low density zone, where the subject property is not in a low density zone;
b. A parcel within a low density zone containing a detached dwelling unit, where the subject property is in a low density zone;
c. A parcel within the PLA 17 zone containing a low density use; or
d. A parcel within PLA 3C containing an attached dwelling unit, where the subject property is in PLA 3C.
The structure’s length shall be measured parallel to the property line separating the subject property from the abutting low density zone or use. See Plate 38 in Chapter 180 KZC. The 30-foot distance shall be measured from the perimeter property lines of the protected parcel where the zoning boundary is located in a right-of-way. Structures or portions thereof shall be treated as a single structure if any portions of the structures, other than those elements listed in subsection (2)(b) of this section, are located within 20 feet of each other.
2. Exceptions
a. The above size limits do not apply to:
1) Structures within 30 feet of a parcel containing an institutional use;
2) Structures separated from the protected parcel by another developed parcel or right-of-way other than an alley or an access easement/tract less than or equal to 21 feet in width;
3) “Detached dwelling unit(s)”;
4) Detached dwelling units approved and constructed as “Detached, Attached, or Stacked Dwelling Unit” uses that are separated from each other by at least 10 feet;
5) “Attached Dwelling Units” uses in PLA 3C;
6) “Attached or Stacked Dwelling Units” uses in PLA 15B;
7) “Detached, Attached, or Stacked Dwelling Units” uses in PLA 6G;
8) “Mini-School or Mini-Day Care Center” uses in all low density zones and in RH 5A, RH 5B, RH 5C, PLA 14, PLA 15B and PLA 17 zones;
9) “Public College or University” uses in PLA 14;
10) “Private College and Related Facilities” uses in PLA 1;
11) “Professional Football, Baseball, or Soccer Practice or Play Facility” uses in PLA 1;
12) “Commercial Equestrian Facility or Commercial Recreation Area” uses in PLA 16; and
13) “Hazardous Waste Treatment and Storage Facilities” uses in LIT zones.
b. The following elements of a structure are not subject to the 20-foot separation established in subsection (1) of this section:
1) Any elements no higher than 18 inches above finished grade;
2) Chimneys, bay windows, greenhouse windows, eaves, cornices, awnings and canopies that extend no more than 18 inches from the wall of a structure;
3) Stairs that extend no more than five (5) feet from the wall of a structure; and
4) Porches that extend no more than five (5) feet from the wall of a structure if:
a) The porch is no higher than one (1) story and the finished floor of the porch is no more than four (4) feet above finished grade;
b) Three (3) sides of the porch are open, other than solid walls or railings up to a height of 42 inches;
c) No deck, balcony or living area is on the roof of the porch;
d) The length of the porch does not exceed 50 percent of the wall of the structure to which it is attached; and
e) Porch eaves may extend an additional 18 inches from the edge of the porch.
3. Modifications – The City may approve modifications from the dimensional standards specified in subsection (1) of this section if it determines that either:
a. The topography, vegetation or improvements on either the subject property or abutting property adequately obscure the visibility of the structure from the abutting property; or
b. The design of the structure moderates its apparent size as well as or better than strict adherence to the dimensions specified in subsection (1) of this section.
The decision on the modification shall be made by the Planning and Building Director and appeals shall be in accordance with the appeal provisions of Process I, Chapter 145 KZC; provided, that if the development requires a decision through design review, Process I, Process IIA or Process IIB, the decision on the modification and appeals thereof shall be made using the required review process for the development.
(Ord. 4749 § 1, 2021; Ord. 4450 § 1, 2014; Ord. 4437 § 1, 2014)
115.137 Solar Collectors in Residential Zones
Only ground and/or roof mounted solar collectors are allowed in residential zones.
1. Roof Mounted – Roof mounted solar collectors are allowed in all residential zones pursuant to KZC 115.60(2), Height Regulations – Exceptions. For the purpose of this section, a solar collector will be considered to be roof mounted if it extends across the roof of a structure with or without being attached.
2. Ground Mounted – Ground mounted solar collectors are allowed in all residential zones subject to the following standards:
a. Location – Ground mounted solar collectors shall be placed behind a plane extending across the width of the property at the front facade of the dwelling unit or other structure located closest to the front property line.
b. Height – The maximum permitted height of a solar collector is six (6) feet above finished grade.
(Ord. 4437 § 1, 2014)
115.138 Temporary Construction Staging for Public Projects
Temporary construction staging associated with public projects supervised by the City of Kirkland Department of Public Works may be approved by the Director of Public Works, subject to the following:
1. The approval shall establish standards that minimize site impacts, including but not limited to tree and soil protection consistent with Chapter 95 KZC;
2. City contact information shall be posted on site; and
3. All staging equipment and materials must be removed, and the site restored to its previous condition, immediately upon completion of the associated project.
(Ord. 4739 § 1, 2020)
115.139 Temporary Government Facilities
1. General – Under the following circumstances, a temporary government facility may be located on a property without requiring approval under the required review process for the use, and not subject to the dimensional requirements and development standards of such use, in the applicable zone in Chapters 15 through 56 KZC:
a. When an interim facility is necessary to provide service during construction of a related permanent facility. The temporary government facility may be located and operated for a duration not to exceed the construction period of the permanent government facility.
b. When a temporary facility is necessary in response to an emergency proclamation. The temporary government facility may be located and operated for a duration not to exceed the emergency proclamation.
2. Notice – Except when a temporary government facility is established in response to an emergency proclamation, the applicable City department shall provide notice and contact information at least 30 days prior to occupying a site. The notice shall be distributed as follows:
a. The notice, including a vicinity map, will be distributed to the owners of all property within 300 feet of any boundary of the subject property.
b. The notice, including a vicinity map, will be distributed to the residents of each piece of property adjacent to or directly across the street from the subject property.
(Ord. 4739 § 1, 2020)
115.140 Temporary Storage Containers
1. The temporary outdoor use of storage, moving, shipping, or freight containers, including but not necessarily limited to ISO (International Shipping Organization) standard containers, is permitted in all zones if accessory to a permitted use. Containers shall be considered temporary if they do not require a building, electrical, plumbing or mechanical permit, and are not secured, or required to be secured, to a permanent foundation. If the use of a temporary storage container is associated with the construction or remodel of a building, the container shall be removed prior to final inspection approval or issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the building. In all other cases, the container may remain on site for a period not to exceed 14 days.
2. An existing temporary storage container may not be replaced unless the replacement temporary storage container complies fully with these regulations.
3. Any temporary storage container existing on or before the effective date of these regulations shall be removed subject to KZC 162.35(13) but not later than July 1, 2021.
(Ord. 4739 § 1, 2020; Ord. 4650 § 1, 2018; Ord. 4196 § 1, 2009; Ord. 3852 § 1, 2002. Formerly 115.138.)
115.141 Temporary Trailers for Construction and Real Estate Sales Offices
Temporary trailers or buildings used for construction offices and real estate sales offices normally associated with construction of a building or development are permitted. The temporary trailers or buildings must be removed from site prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the building or use.
In addition, during construction of a commercial building, temporary trailers may also be used for any commercial uses which will be housed in the buildings being constructed, subject to the following conditions:
1. The site must have an active building permit at all times that the trailer is used;
2. When the building permit is initially granted, a maximum time period for using the trailer will be established. The time period will reflect the expected duration of construction, assuming a normal and constant construction schedule. Other conditions may also be established on a case-by-case basis as necessary to mitigate impacts.
3. Sufficient temporary parking shall be provided, based on the gross floor area of the trailer.
(Ord. 4739 § 1, 2020. Formerly 115.40.)
115.142 Transit Shelters and Centers, Public
Public transit shelters and centers are allowed in all zones and shall not exceed 15 feet above average building elevation in low density zones. The public transit shelters and centers must not unreasonably impede pedestrian movement or create traffic safety problems. Transit route and information signs and markers may be installed. One hundred percent lot coverage is allowed. There are no specific requirements for review process, minimum lot size, minimum required yards, landscaping, or parking for this use.
(Ord. 4072 § 1, 2007)
115.150 Vehicles, Boats and Trailers – Size in Residential Zones Limited
1. General – Except as specified below, it is a violation of this code to park or store any vehicle, boat or trailer on any lot in a residential zone if that vehicle, boat or trailer, or any combination thereof, is both more than nine feet in height and 22 feet in length, including bumpers and any other elements that are required by federal or state law for the operation of the vehicle, boat or trailer on public roads or waterways.
Any boat that is 16 feet or longer and has a gunwale which is at least five feet from the ground when the boat is sitting on a boat trailer shall not be parked or stored in a required front yard.
2. Exceptions
a. A vehicle, boat or trailer of any size may be parked on any lot in the City for not more than 24 hours in any consecutive seven-day period for the exclusive purpose of loading or unloading the vehicle, boat or trailer.
b. A vehicle, boat or trailer of any size may be parked and stored on any lot in the City if it is parked in a legally constructed fully enclosed garage meeting all regulations for that zone.
c. An oversized vehicle, boat or trailer may be parked on a lot in an RSA or RMA zone containing an existing residence if all of the following are met:
1) Within six months of the effective date of annexation, the owner registers the oversized vehicle, boat or trailer parked on his/her property with the City’s Planning and Building Department. The owner shall provide the City with a copy of the state vehicle registration license showing that the person obtaining the registration is the owner of the vehicle, boat or trailer and that the address on the vehicle license is the same as the address where the vehicle, boat or trailer is parked;
2) The owner of the vehicle, boat or trailer resides on the lot that contains the vehicle;
3) Within one year of the effective date of annexation, a registered vehicle, boat or trailer under subsection (2)(c)(1) of this section may be replaced with another vehicle, boat or trailer of the same type and no greater dimensions; provided, that the requirements of subsection (2)(c)(1) of this section are met for the replacement vehicle and the replaced vehicle, boat or trailer has been removed from the property;
4) The exception runs with the registered vehicle, boat or trailer parked on a specific lot at the time of annexation and to the owner of the vehicle, boat or trailer who resides on the specific property at the time of annexation.
d. The City may, using Process I, described in Chapter 145 KZC, approve a request to park or store a vehicle, boat or trailer of any size on a lot in a residential zone if:
1) The parking or storage of the vehicle, boat or trailer will not be detrimental to the character of the neighborhood; and
2) The property abutting the subject property will not be impacted by the parking or storage; and
3) The placement of the vehicle, boat or trailer will not create a potential fire hazard; and
4) The parking or storage is clearly accessory to a residential use on the subject property and the vehicle, boat or trailer is operated by a resident of the subject property.
The City may impose screening requirements, limit the hours of operation of the vehicle, boat or trailer, and impose other restrictions to eliminate adverse impacts of the parking or storage.
(Ord. 4811 § 1, 2022; Ord. 4491 § 3, 2015; Ord. 4372 § 1, 2012; Ord. 4196 § 1, 2009; Ord. 4121 § 1, 2008)
115.155 Marijuana Retail Business – Buffer Requirements from Licensed Child Care Centers
Except as otherwise provided in this section, the distance requirements of RCW 69.50.331(8)(a) (as it now exists or may subsequently be amended) shall apply to State Liquor and Cannabis Board licensing of all marijuana producers, processors, retailers and research premises. Pursuant to RCW 69.50.331(8)(b), the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board may issue a license for a marijuana retail premises located within 1,000 feet of the perimeter of the grounds of a child care center, but no portion of the property on which a state-licensed marijuana retailer is located may be within 100 feet of the perimeter of the grounds of a child care center. For the purpose of this section, “child care center” shall have the definition set forth in WAC 170-295-0010.
(Ord. 4811 § 1, 2022; Ord. 4528 § 1, 2016)