Chapter 19.256
WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITIES
Sections:
19.256.040 Federal regulatory requirements.
19.256.050 Small wireless facility application process.
19.256.060 Small wireless facility application requirements.
19.256.070 Small wireless facility review criteria and process.
19.256.080 Small wireless facility permit requirements.
19.256.090 Small wireless facility modification.
19.256.100 Small wireless facility aesthetic, concealment, and design standards.
19.256.110 Designated design zones for small wireless facilities.
19.256.120 Major wireless communication facility application and review process.
19.256.130 Major wireless communication facility application requirements.
19.256.140 Prioritized locations for major wireless communication facilities.
19.256.150 Major wireless communication facility development standards.
19.256.160 Expiration of major wireless communication facility permit.
19.256.170 Nonconformance exceptions.
19.256.180 Temporary major wireless communication facilities.
19.256.200 Removal of facility.
19.256.210 Revocation of permit.
19.256.010 Purpose and scope.
The purpose of this chapter, in addition to implementing the general purposes of the comprehensive plan and development regulations, is to regulate the activities of permitting, placement, construction and modification of wireless communication facilities in order to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public while not unreasonably interfering with the development of a competitive wireless telecommunications marketplace within the city.
This chapter provides permitting and review regulations as well as aesthetic, design and concealment standards for the construction of wireless communication facilities both within and without the public right-of-way. It also provides siting options at appropriate locations within the city to support existing communications technologies, to adapt to new technologies as needed, and to minimize associated safety hazards and visual impacts. The siting of wireless communication facilities on existing buildings and structures, collocation of telecommunication facilities on a single support structure and visual mitigation strategies are encouraged to preserve neighborhood aesthetics and reduce visual clutter in the city.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.020 Exemptions.
(1) Exemptions. The following antennas and facilities are exempt from the provisions of this chapter and shall be permitted in all zones consistent with the applicable development standards outlined in the use zone charts, Division VI, Zoning Regulations, of this title:
(a) WCFs used for temporary emergency communications in the event of a disaster, or emergency preparedness, and for any other public health or safety purpose, including, by way of illustration and not limitation, any communications systems utilized by first responders such as police or fire.
(b) Industrial processing equipment and scientific or medical equipment using frequencies regulated by the FCC; provided such equipment complies with all applicable provisions of FWRC 19.110.050, Compliance generally; 19.110.060, Exceptions; and 19.110.070, Rooftop appurtenances – Required screening.
(c) Citizen band radios or antennas operated by federal licensing amateur (“ham”) radio operators; provided such antennas comply with all applicable provisions of FWRC 19.110.050, Compliance generally; 19.110.060, Exceptions; and 19.110.070, Rooftop appurtenances – Required screening.
(d) Satellite dish antennas less than two meters in diameter, including direct-to-home satellite services, when used as secondary use of the property; provided such antennas comply with all applicable provisions of FWRC 19.110.050, Compliance generally; 19.110.060, Exceptions; and 19.110.070, Rooftop appurtenances – Required screening.
(e) Automated meter reading (“AMR”) facilities for collecting utility meter data for use in the sale of utility services, except for WIP and other antennas greater than two feet in length; so long as the AMR facilities are within the scope of activities permitted under a valid franchise agreement between the utility service provider and the city.
(f) Eligible facilities requests. See Chapter 19.257 FWRC.
(g) Routine maintenance or repair of a major WCF and related equipment excluding structural work or changes in height, dimension, or visual impacts of the tower or support structure; provided, however, that compliance with the standards of this title is maintained and a right-of-way use permit is obtained if the major WCF is located in the right-of-way.
(h) Temporary major WCFs for large scale community events, limited to the duration of the event, plus two days prior to the event and two days after.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.030 Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter, the following terms shall have the meaning ascribed to them below. Terms not defined in this section shall be defined as set forth in Chapter 19.05 FWRC:
“Antenna(s)” in the context of small wireless and wireless communication facilities and consistent with 47 CFR 1.1320(w) and 1.6002(b) means an apparatus designed for the purpose of emitting radio frequency (“RF”) radiation, to be operated or operating from a fixed location pursuant to Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) authorization, for the provision of personal wireless and any commingled information services. For the purposes of this definition, the term “antenna” does not include an unintentional radiator, mobile station, or device authorized by 47 CFR Title 15.
“Antenna equipment,” consistent with 47 CFR 1.1320(d), means equipment, switches, wiring, cabling, power sources, shelters, or cabinets associated with an antenna, located at the same fixed location as the antenna, and, when collocated on a structure, are mounted or installed at the same time as the antenna.
“Antenna facility” means an antenna and associated antenna equipment.
“Collocation” means:
(a) Mounting or installing an antenna facility on a preexisting structure; and/or
(b) Modifying a structure for the purpose of mounting or installing an antenna facility on that structure.
“Concealment elements” means stealth techniques specifically designated as concealment elements at the time of the original approval of the wireless facility for the purposes of rendering the appearance of the wireless facility as something fundamentally different than a wireless facility including but not limited to the use of nonreflective materials, appropriate colors, and/or a concealment canister.
“Director” means the public works director or designee.
“Equipment enclosure” means a facility, shelter, cabinet, or vault used to house and protect electronic or other associated equipment necessary for processing wireless communication signals. “Associated equipment” may include, for example, air conditioning, backup power supplies, and emergency generators.
“FCC” or “Federal Communications Commission” means the federal administrative agency, or lawful successor, authorized to regulate and oversee telecommunications carriers, services and providers on a national level.
“Major wireless communication facilities” or “major WCF” means a large wireless service facility that provides radio frequency coverage for wireless services. Generally, major WCF antennas are mounted on ground-based towers, rooftops and other existing structures, at a height that provides a clear view over the surrounding buildings and terrain. Major WCF typically contain antennas that are greater than three cubic feet per antenna and typically cover large geographic areas with relatively high capacity and may be capable of hosting multiple wireless service providers. Major WFC include but are not limited to monopoles, lattice towers, macro cells, roof-mounted and panel antennas, and other similar facilities.
“Personal wireless services” means commercial mobile services, unlicensed wireless services, and common carrier wireless exchange access services.
“Service provider” shall be defined in accord with RCW 35.99.010(6). “Service provider” shall include those infrastructure companies that provide telecommunications services or equipment to enable the construction of wireless communications.
“Small wireless facility” shall be defined as provided in 47 CFR 1.6002(l).
“Structure” means a pole, tower, base station, or other building, whether or not it has an existing antenna facility, that is used or to be used for the provision of personal wireless service (on its own or commingled with other types of services).
“Telecommunications service” shall be defined in accord with RCW 35.99.010.
“Tower” means any structure built for the sole or primary purpose of supporting any FCC-licensed or authorized antennas and their associated facilities, including structures that are constructed for wireless communication services including, but not limited to, private, broadcast, and public safety services, as well as unlicensed wireless services, and fixed wireless services such as microwave backhaul and the associated site.
“Traffic signal pole” means any structure designed and used primarily for support of traffic signal displays and equipment whether for vehicular or nonmotorized users.
“Transmission equipment” means equipment that facilitates transmission for any FCC-licensed or authorized wireless communication service, including, but not limited to, radio transceivers, antennas, coaxial or fiber-optic cable, and regular and backup power supply. The term includes equipment associated with wireless communication services including, but not limited to, private, broadcast, and public safety services, as well as unlicensed wireless services and fixed wireless services such as microwave backhaul.
“Unified enclosure” means a small wireless facility providing concealment of antennas and equipment within a single enclosure.
“Utility pole” means a structure designed and used primarily for the support of electrical wires, telephone wires, television cable, or lighting for streets, parking lots, or pedestrian paths.
“Wireless communication facilities” or “WCF” means facilities used for personal wireless services.
“Wireline” means services provided using a physically tangible means of transmission, including without limitation wire or cable, and the apparatus used for such transmission.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.040 Federal regulatory requirements.
(1) These provisions shall be interpreted and applied in order to comply with the provisions of federal law. By way of illustration and not limitation, any WCF that has been certified as compliant with all FCC and other government regulations regarding the human exposure to radio frequency emissions will not be denied on the basis of RF radiation concerns.
(2) WCFs shall be subject to the requirements of this Code to the extent that such requirements:
(a) Do not unreasonably discriminate among providers of functionally equivalent services; and
(b) Do not prohibit or have the effect of prohibiting wireless service within the city.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.050 Small wireless facility application process.
(1) Applicability. Any application for a small wireless facility both inside and outside of the right-of-way shall comply with the application requirements for a small wireless facility permit described in this chapter. For small wireless facilities inside the right-of-way, the applicant must also comply with the requirements pursuant to Chapter 4.22 FWRC. The small wireless facility permits are issued by the director.
(2) Completeness. An application for a small wireless facility is not complete until the applicant has submitted all the applicable items required by FWRC 19.256.060 and, to the extent relevant, has submitted all the applicable items in subsection (3) of this section and the city has confirmed that the application is complete. Franchisees with a valid franchise for small wireless facilities may apply for a small wireless permit for the initial or additional phases of a small wireless facilities system at any time subject to the commencement of a new completeness review time period for permit processing.
(3) Application components. The director is authorized to establish franchise and other application forms to gather the information required to evaluate the application from applicants and to determine the completeness of the application as provided herein. The application shall include the following components as applicable:
(a) Franchise. If any portion of the applicant’s facilities are to be located in the right-of-way, the applicant shall apply for, and receive approval of, a franchise consistent with the requirements in Chapter 4.22 FWRC. An application for a franchise may be submitted concurrently with an application for small wireless facility permit(s).
(b) Small wireless facility permits. The applicant shall submit a SWF permit application as required in the small wireless facility application requirements established in FWRC 19.256.060 and pay the permit fee as set forth in the fee schedule which may be amended by city council from time to time.
(c) Associated application(s) and checklist(s). Any application for a small wireless permit which contains an element which is not categorically exempt from SEPA review shall simultaneously apply under Chapter 43.21C RCW and FWRC Title 14. Further, any application proposing small wireless facilities in a shoreline area (pursuant to Chapter 15.05 FWRC) or a critical area (pursuant to Chapter 19.145 FWRC) shall indicate why the application is exempt or comply with the review processes in such codes. Applications for small wireless facilities in design zones or for new poles shall comply with the requirements in FWRC 19.256.100(5).
(d) Leases. An applicant who desires to attach a small wireless facility on any utility pole, light pole, or other structure or building owned by the city shall obtain a lease as a component of its application. Utility poles and the use of other public property, structures or facilities, including but not limited to any park land or facility, require city council approval of a lease or master lease agreement.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.060 Small wireless facility application requirements.
The following information shall be provided by all applicants for a small wireless permit:
(1) The application shall provide specific locational information including GIS coordinates of all proposed small wireless facilities and specify where the small wireless facilities will utilize existing, replacement or new poles, towers, existing buildings and/or other structures. The applicant shall specify ground-mounted equipment, conduit, junction boxes and fiber and power connections necessary for and intended for use in the small wireless facilities system regardless of whether the additional facilities are to be constructed by the applicant or leased from a third party. The applicant shall provide detailed schematics and visual renderings of the small wireless facilities, including engineering and design standards. The application shall have sufficient detail to identify:
(a) The location of overhead and, to the extent applicable, underground public utilities, telecommunication, cable, water, adjacent lighting, sewer drainage and other lines and equipment within 50 feet of the proposed project area (which project area shall include the location of the fiber source and power source). Further, the applicant shall include all existing and proposed improvements related to the proposed location, including but not limited to poles, driveways, ADA ramps, equipment cabinets, street trees and structures within 50 feet of the proposed project area.
(b) The specific trees, structures, improvements, facilities, lines and equipment, and obstructions, if any, that applicant proposes to temporarily or permanently remove or relocate and a landscape plan for protecting, trimming, removing, replacing, and restoring any trees or significant landscaping to be disturbed during construction. The applicant is discouraged from cutting/pruning, removing or replacing trees, and if any such tree modifications are proposed the applicant must comply with applicable provisions of Chapters 19.120 and 4.35 FWRC.
(c) The applicant’s plan for fiber and power service, all conduits, cables, wires, handholes, junctions, meters, disconnect switches and any other ancillary equipment or construction necessary to construct the small cell facility, to the extent to which the applicant is responsible for installing such fiber and power service, conduits, cables, and related improvements. Where another party is responsible for installing such fiber and power service, conduits, cables, and related improvements, applicant’s construction drawings shall include such utilities to the extent known at the time of application, but at a minimum applicant must indicate how it expects to obtain power and fiber service to the small cell facility.
(d) A photometric analysis of the roadway and sidewalk within 150 feet of the existing light if the site location includes a new light pole.
(e) Compliance with the applicable aesthetic requirements pursuant to FWRC 19.256.100.
(2) The applicant must show written approval from the owner of any pole or structure for the installation of its small wireless facilities on such pole or structure. Such written approval shall include approval of the specific pole, engineering and design specifications for the pole, as well as assurances that the specific pole can withstand wind and seismic loads as well as assurances in accordance with subsection (6) of this section, from the pole owner, unless the pole owner is the city. For city-owned utility poles or structures, the applicant shall obtain a lease from the city prior to or concurrent with the small wireless permit application so that the city can evaluate the use of a specific pole.
(3) The applicant is encouraged to batch the small wireless facility sites within an application in a contiguous service area and/or with similar designs.
(4) The applicant shall submit a sworn affidavit signed by an RF engineer with knowledge of the proposed project affirming that the small wireless facilities will be compliant with all FCC and other governmental regulations in connection with human exposure to radio frequency emissions for every frequency at which the small wireless facility will operate. If facilities that generate RF radiation necessary to the small wireless facility are to be provided by a third party, then the small wireless permit shall be conditioned on an RF certification showing the cumulative impact of the RF emissions from the entire installation. The applicant may provide one emissions report for the entire batch of small wireless facility applications if the applicant is using the same small wireless facility configuration for all installations within that batch or may submit one emissions report for each subgroup installation identified in the batch.
(5) The applicant shall provide proof of FCC or other regulatory approvals required to provide the service(s) or utilize the technologies sought to be installed.
(6) A professional engineer licensed by the state of Washington shall certify in writing, over his or her seal, that construction plans of the small wireless facilities and structure or pole and foundation are designed to reasonably withstand wind and seismic loads as required by applicable codes.
(7) A right-of-way work permit application as required by FWRC 4.25.030.
(8) Proof of a valid Federal Way business license.
(9) Recognizing that small wireless facility technology is rapidly evolving, the director is authorized to adopt and publish standards for the structural safety of city-owned structures and to formulate and publish application questions for use when an applicant seeks to attach to city-owned structures.
(10) Such other information as the director, in his/her reasonable discretion, shall deem appropriate to effectively evaluate the application based on technical, engineering and aesthetic considerations.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.070 Small wireless facility review criteria and process.
(1) The following provisions relate to review of applications for a small wireless facility permit:
(a) In any zone, upon application for a small wireless permit, the city will permit small wireless facilities only when the application meets the criteria of this chapter.
(b) Vertical clearance shall be reviewed by the director to ensure that the small wireless facilities will not pose a hazard to other users of the rights-of-way.
(c) Replacement poles, new poles, and ground-mounted equipment permitted pursuant to FWRC 19.256.100(1)(b) shall comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), city construction and sidewalk clearance standards, traffic warrants, city ordinances, and state and federal statutes and regulations in order to provide a clear and safe passage within the right-of-way. Further, the location of any replacement pole, new pole, or ground-mounted equipment must: be physically possible, cannot obstruct vehicular or pedestrian traffic or the clear zone, not interfere with utility or safety fixtures (e.g., fire hydrants, traffic control devices), and not adversely affect the public welfare, health, or safety.
(d) No equipment shall be operated so as to produce noise in violation of Chapter 7.10 FWRC.
(e) Small wireless facilities may not encroach onto or over private property or property outside of the right-of-way without the property owner’s express written consent.
(2) Decision. All small wireless facility applications shall be reviewed and approved or denied by the director. The director’s decision shall be final and is not subject to appeal under city code or further review by the city.
(3) Eligible facilities requests. Small wireless facilities may be expanded pursuant to an eligible facilities request so long as the expansion:
(a) Does not defeat design concealment elements specifically designated as stealth techniques;
(b) Incorporates the aesthetic elements required as conditions of approval set forth in the original small wireless facility approval in a manner consistent with the rights granted an eligible facility; and
(c) Does not exceed the conditions of a small wireless facility as defined by 47 CFR 1.6002(l).
(4) Public notice. The city shall provide notice of a complete application for a small wireless permit on the city’s website with a link to the application. Prior to construction, the applicant shall provide notice of construction to all impacted property owners within 100 feet of any proposed small wireless facility via a doorhanger that shall include an email contact and telephone number for the applicant. Notice is for the public’s information and is not a part of a hearing or part of the land use appeal process.
(5) Withdrawal. Any applicant may withdraw an application submitted at any time, provided the withdrawal is in writing and signed by all persons who signed the original application or their successors in interest. When a withdrawal is received, the application shall be deemed null and void. If such withdrawal occurs prior to the director’s decision, then reimbursement of fees submitted in association with said application shall be reduced to withhold the amount of actual and objectively reasonable city costs incurred in processing the application prior to time of withdrawal. If such withdrawal is not accomplished prior to the director’s decision, there shall be no refund of all or any portion of such fee.
(6) Supplemental information. Failure of an applicant to provide supplemental information as requested by the director within 90 days of notice by the director shall be grounds for denial of that application unless an extension period has been approved by the director. If no extension period has been approved by the director, the director shall notify the applicant in writing that the application is denied.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.080 Small wireless facility permit requirements.
(1) Permit compliance. The permittee shall comply with all of the requirements within the small wireless facility permit.
(2) Post-construction as-builts. Upon request, the permittee shall provide the city with as-builts of the small wireless facilities, within 30 days after construction of the small wireless facility, demonstrating compliance with the permit, visual renderings submitted with the permit application and any site photographs taken.
(3) Construction time limit. Construction of the small wireless facility must be completed within 12 months after the approval date by the city. The permittee may request one extension of no more than six months, if the permittee provides an explanation as to why the small wireless facility cannot be constructed within the original 12-month period.
(4) Site safety and maintenance. The permittee must maintain the small wireless facilities in safe and working condition. The permittee shall be responsible for the removal of any graffiti or other vandalism of the small wireless facility and shall keep the site neat and orderly, including but not limited to following any maintenance or modifications on the site.
(5) Operational activity. The permittee shall commence operation of the small wireless facility no later than six months after installation. The permittee may request one extension for an additional six-month period if the permittee can show that such operational activity is delayed due to inability to connect to electrical or backhaul facilities.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.090 Small wireless facility modification.
(1) If a permittee desires to modify small wireless facilities, including but not limited to expanding or changing the antenna type, increasing the equipment enclosure, placing additional pole-mounted or ground-mounted equipment, or modifying the concealment elements, then the permittee shall apply for a new small wireless permit.
(2) A small wireless permit shall not be required for routine maintenance and repair of a small wireless facility within the rights-of-way, or the replacement of an antenna or equipment of similar size, weight, and height; provided, that such replacement does not defeat the concealment elements used in the original small wireless facility and does not impact the structural integrity of the pole. Further, a small wireless permit shall not be required for replacing equipment within the equipment enclosure or reconfiguration of fiber or power to the small wireless facilities. An annual blanket right-of-way permit will be required for such routine maintenance, repair, or replacement and can cover all facilities owned by the applicant.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.100 Small wireless facility aesthetic, concealment, and design standards.
(1) All small wireless facilities shall conform with the following general aesthetic, concealment, and design standards, as applicable:
(a) Except for locations in the right-of-way, small wireless facilities are not permitted on any property containing a residential use in residential zones.
(b) Ground-mounted equipment in the rights-of-way is prohibited, unless such facilities are placed underground, or the applicant can demonstrate that pole-mounted or undergrounded equipment is technically infeasible. If ground-mounted equipment is necessary, then the applicant shall submit a concealment element plan substantially conforming to the applicable standards in subsection (5)(c) of this section and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”), city construction standards, and state and federal regulations in order to provide a clear and safe passage within the public right-of-way. Generators located in the rights-of-way are prohibited.
(c) No signage, message, or identification other than the manufacturer’s identification or identification required by governing law is allowed to be portrayed on any antenna or equipment enclosure. Any permitted signage shall be located on the equipment enclosures and be of the minimum amount possible to achieve the intended purpose (no larger than four by six inches); provided, that signs may be permitted as concealment element techniques where appropriate and safety signage as required by applicable laws, regulations, and standards is permitted.
(d) Antennas and related equipment shall not be illuminated except for security reasons, required by a federal or state authority, or unless approved as part of the required concealment element requirements pursuant to subsection (5)(c) of this section.
(e) The design standards in this chapter are intended to be used solely for the purpose of concealment and siting. Nothing contained in this chapter shall be interpreted or applied in a manner which dictates the use of a particular technology. When strict application of these requirements would render the small wireless facility technically infeasible or otherwise have the effect of prohibiting wireless service, alternative forms of aesthetic design or concealment may be permitted which provide similar or greater protections from negative visual impacts to the streetscape.
(2) General pole standards. In addition to complying with the general standards in subsection (1) of this section, all small wireless facilities on any type of pole shall conform to the following general pole design requirements as well as the applicable pole specific standards:
(a) The preferred location of a small wireless facility on a pole is the location with the least visible impact.
(b) The city may consider the cumulative visual effects of small wireless facilities mounted on poles within the rights-of-way when assessing proposed siting locations so as to not adversely affect the visual character of the city. This provision shall neither be applied to limit the number of permits issued when no alternative sites are reasonably available nor to impose a technological requirement on the applicant.
(c) Small wireless facilities are not permitted on traffic signal poles unless denial of the siting could be a prohibition or effective prohibition of the applicant’s ability to provide telecommunications service in violation of 47 USC 253 and 332.
(d) Replacement poles and new poles shall comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, city construction and sidewalk clearance standards, city development standards, city ordinances, and state and federal laws and regulations in order to provide a clear and safe passage within the rights-of-way. Further, the location of any replacement or new pole must: be physically possible, comply with applicable traffic warrants, not interfere with utility or safety fixtures (e.g., fire hydrants, traffic control devices), and not adversely affect the public welfare, health, or safety.
(e) Replacement poles shall be located as near as possible to the existing pole and the abandoned pole shall be removed.
(f) Side arm mounts for antennas or equipment must be the minimum extension necessary, and for wooden poles may be no more than 12 inches off the pole, and for nonwooden poles no more than six inches off the pole.
(3) Nonwooden pole design standards. In addition to complying with the general standards in subsections (1) and (2) of this section, small wireless facilities attached to existing or replacement nonwooden poles in the right-of-way or nonwooden poles outside of the right-of-way shall conform to the following design criteria:
(a) Antennas and the associated equipment enclosures (excluding disconnect switches and other appurtenant devices) shall be fully concealed within the pole, unless such concealment is technically infeasible, or is incompatible with the pole design, then the antennas and associated equipment enclosures must be camouflaged to appear as an integral part of the pole or flush-mounted to the pole, meaning no more than six inches off of the pole, and must be the minimum size necessary for the intended purpose, not to exceed the volumetric dimensions of small wireless facilities. If the equipment enclosure is permitted on the exterior of the pole, the applicant is required to place the equipment enclosure behind any banners or road signs that may be on the pole; provided, that such location does not interfere with the operation of the banners or signs, or the small wireless facility.
For purposes of this section, “incompatible with the pole design” may include a demonstration by the applicant that the visual impact to the pole or the streetscape would be reduced by placing the antennas and equipment exterior to the pole.
(b) The farthest point of any antenna or equipment enclosure may not extend more than 28 inches from the face of the pole.
(c) All conduit, cables, wires, and fiber must be routed internally in the pole. Full concealment of all conduit, cables, wires, and fiber is required within mounting brackets, shrouds, canisters, or sleeves if attaching to exterior antennas or equipment.
(d) An antenna on top of an existing pole may not extend more than six feet above the height of the existing pole and the diameter may not exceed 16 inches, unless the applicant can demonstrate that more space is needed. To the extent technically feasible, the antennas shall be integrated into the pole design so that they appear as a continuation of the original pole, including colored or painted to match the pole, and shall be shrouded or screened to blend with the pole except for canister antennas which shall not require screening. To the extent technically feasible, all cabling and mounting hardware/brackets from the bottom of the antenna to the top of the pole shall be fully concealed and integrated with the pole.
(e) Any replacement pole shall substantially conform to the design of the pole it is replacing (including but not limited to color, shape and style) or the neighboring pole design standards utilized within the contiguous right-of-way.
(f) The height of any replacement pole and antenna(s) may not extend more than 10 feet above the height of the existing pole or the minimum additional height necessary; provided, that the height of the replacement pole cannot be extended further by additional antenna height.
(g) The diameter of a replacement pole shall comply with the city’s setback and sidewalk clearance requirements and shall, to the extent technically feasible, not be more than a 25 percent increase of the existing pole measured at the base of the pole, unless additional diameter is needed in order to conceal equipment within the base of the pole, and shall comply with the requirements in subsection (5)(c) of this section.
(h) The use of the pole for the siting of a small wireless facility shall be considered secondary to the primary function of the pole. If the primary function of a pole serving as the host site for a small wireless facility becomes unnecessary, the pole shall not be retained for the sole purpose of accommodating the small wireless facility and the small wireless facility and all associated equipment shall be removed.
(4) Wooden pole design standards. In addition to complying with the general standards in subsections (1) and (2) of this section, small wireless facilities attached to existing or replacement wooden utility poles and other wooden poles inside or outside the right-of-way shall conform to the following design criteria:
(a) The wooden pole at the proposed location may be replaced with a taller pole for the purpose of accommodating a small wireless facility; provided, that the replacement pole shall not exceed a height that is a maximum of 10 feet taller than the existing pole, unless a further height increase is required and confirmed in writing by the pole owner and that such height extension is the minimum extension possible to provide sufficient separation and/or clearance from electrical and wireline facilities.
(b) A pole extender may be used instead of replacing an existing pole, but may not increase the height of the existing pole by more than 10 feet, unless a further height increase is required and confirmed in writing by the pole owner and that such height increase is the minimum extension possible to provide sufficient separation and/or clearance from electrical and wireline facilities. A “pole extender” as used herein is an object affixed between the pole and the antenna for the purpose of increasing the height of the antenna above the pole. The pole extender shall be painted to approximately match the color of the pole and shall substantially match the diameter of the pole measured at the top of the pole.
(c) Replacement wooden poles must either match the approximate color and materials of the replaced pole or shall be the standard new wooden pole used by the pole owner in the city.
(d) The diameter of a replacement pole shall comply with the city’s setback and sidewalk clearance requirements and shall not be more than a 25 percent increase of the existing utility pole measured at the base of the pole or the otherwise standard size used by the pole owner.
(e) All cables and wires shall be routed through conduits along the outside of the pole. The outside conduit shall be colored or painted to match the pole. The number of conduits shall be minimized to the number technically necessary to accommodate the small wireless facility.
(f) To the extent technically feasible, antennas, equipment enclosures, and all ancillary equipment, boxes and conduit shall be colored or painted to match the approximate color of the surface of the wooden pole on which they are attached.
(g) Antennas shall not be mounted more than 12 inches from the surface of the wooden pole.
(h) Antennas should be placed in an effort to minimize visual clutter and obtrusiveness. Multiple antennas are permitted on a wooden pole; provided, that each antenna shall not be more than three cubic feet in volume.
(i) A canister antenna may be mounted on top of an existing or replacement wooden pole, which may not exceed the height requirements described in subsection (4)(a) of this section. A canister antenna mounted on the top of a wooden pole shall not exceed 16 inches in diameter, measured at the top of the pole, and to the extent technically feasible, shall be colored or painted to match the pole. The canister antenna must be placed to look as if it is an extension of the pole. In the alternative, the applicant may install a side-mounted canister antenna, so long as the inside edge of the antenna is no more than 12 inches from the surface of the wooden pole. All cables shall be concealed either within the canister antenna or within a sleeve between the antenna and the wooden pole.
(j) The farthest point of any antenna or equipment enclosure may not extend more than 28 inches from the face of the pole.
(k) An omnidirectional antenna may be mounted on the top of an existing wooden pole, provided such antenna is no more than four feet in height and is mounted directly on the top of a pole or attached to a sleeve made to look like the exterior of the pole as close to the top of the pole as technically feasible. All cables shall be concealed within the sleeve between the bottom of the antenna and the mounting bracket.
(l) All related antenna equipment, including but not limited to ancillary equipment, radios, cables, associated shrouding, microwaves, and conduit which are mounted on wooden poles, shall not be mounted more than six inches from the surface of the pole, unless a further distance is technically required and is confirmed in writing by the pole owner.
(m) Equipment for small wireless facilities must be attached to the wooden pole, unless otherwise permitted to be ground mounted, pursuant to subsection (4)(a) of this section. The equipment must be placed in the smallest enclosure possible for the intended purpose. The equipment enclosure and all other wireless equipment associated with the utility pole, including wireless equipment associated with the antenna, and any preexisting associated equipment on the pole, may not exceed 28 cubic feet. Multiple equipment enclosures may be acceptable if designed to more closely integrate with the pole design and do not cumulatively exceed 28 cubic feet. The applicant is encouraged to place the equipment enclosure(s) behind any banners or road signs that may be on the pole; provided, that such location does not interfere with the operation of the banners or signs, or the small wireless facility.
(n) An applicant who desires to enclose both its antennas and equipment within one unified enclosure may do so; provided, that such enclosure is the minimum size necessary for its intended purpose and the enclosure and all other wireless equipment associated with the pole, including wireless equipment associated with the antenna and any preexisting associated equipment on the pole does not exceed 28 cubic feet. The unified enclosure may not be placed more than six inches from the surface of the pole, unless a further distance is required and confirmed in writing by the pole owner. To the extent possible, the unified enclosure shall be placed so as to appear as an integrated part of the pole or behind banners or signs; provided, that such location does not interfere with the operation of the banners or signs.
(o) The visual effect of the small wireless facility on all other aspects of the appearance of the wooden pole shall be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
(p) The use of the wooden pole for the siting of a small wireless facility shall be considered secondary to the primary function of the pole. If the primary function of a pole serving as the host site for a small wireless facility becomes unnecessary, the pole shall not be retained for the sole purpose of accommodating the small wireless facility and the small wireless facility and all associated equipment shall be removed.
(5) Small wireless facilities on new poles in the rights-of-way or in a design zone. In addition to complying with the general standards in subsections (1) and (2) of this section, small wireless facilities proposed to be attached to new poles or in a design zone shall comply with following:
(a) New poles within the rights-of-way are only permitted if the applicant can establish that:
(i) The proposed small wireless facility cannot be located on an existing utility pole or light pole, electrical transmission tower or on a site outside of the public rights-of-way such as a public park, public property, building, transmission tower or in or on a nonresidential use in a residential zone, whether by roof or panel mount or separate structure;
(ii) The proposed small wireless facility receives approval for a concealment element design, as described in this subsection;
(iii) The proposed small wireless facility also complies with Shoreline Management Act, Growth Management Act, and State Environmental Policy Act, if applicable; and
(iv) No new poles shall be located in a critical area or associated buffer required by the city’s environmentally critical areas ordinance, Chapter 19.145 FWRC, except when determined to be exempt pursuant to said ordinance.
(b) An application for a new pole is subject to administrative review by the director.
(c) All new poles shall conform to the city’s standard pole design established in the city’s public works development standards. If no existing metered service is available, the applicant shall provide new metered electrical service. If the city’s standard pole design is technically infeasible, the new pole shall meet the following:
(i) The concealment element design shall include the design of the screening, fencing, or other concealment technology for a tower, pole, or equipment enclosure, and all related transmission equipment or facilities associated with the proposed small wireless facility, including but not limited to fiber and power connections.
(ii) The concealment element design should seek to minimize the visual obtrusiveness of the small wireless facility. The proposed pole or structure should have similar designs to existing neighboring poles in the rights-of-way, including similar height to the extent technically feasible. If the proposed small wireless facility is placed on a replacement pole in a design district, then the replacement pole shall be of the same general design as the pole it is replacing, unless the director otherwise approves a variation due to aesthetic or safety concerns. Any concealment element design for a small wireless facility on a decorative pole should attempt to mimic the design of such pole and integrate the small wireless facility into the design of the decorative pole. Other concealment methods include, but are not limited to, integrating the installation with architectural features or building design components, utilization of coverings or concealment devices of similar material, color, and texture – or the appearance thereof – as the surface against which the installation will be seen or on which it will be installed, landscape design, or other camouflage strategies appropriate for the type of installation. Applicants are required to utilize designs in which all conduit and wires are installed internally within the structure. Further, applicant designs should, to the extent technically feasible, comply with the generally applicable design standards adopted pursuant to this section.
(iii) If the director has already approved a concealment element design either for the applicant or another small wireless facility along the same public right-of-way or for the same pole type, then the applicant shall utilize a substantially similar concealment element design, unless it can show that such concealment element design is not physically or technically feasible, or that such design would undermine the generally applicable design standards.
(iv) Even if an alternative location is established pursuant to subsection (5)(a)(i) of this section, the director may determine that a new pole in the right-of-way is in fact a superior alternative based on the impact to the city, the concealment element design, the city’s comprehensive plan and the added benefits to the community.
(v) Prior to the issuance of a permit to construct a new pole or ground-mounted equipment in the right-of-way, the applicant must obtain a master lease agreement from the city to locate such new pole or ground-mounted equipment. This requirement also applies to replacement poles that are taller than the replaced pole, when the overall height of the replacement pole and the proposed small wireless facility is more than 60 feet.
(6) Small wireless facilities attached to cables. In addition to complying with the applicable general standards in subsection (1) of this section, all small wireless facilities mounted on existing cables strung between existing utility poles shall conform to the following standards:
(a) Each strand-mounted facility shall not exceed three cubic feet in volume;
(b) Only one strand-mounted facility is permitted per cable between any two existing poles on an existing cable;
(c) The strand-mounted devices shall be placed as close as feasible to the nearest utility pole, in no event more than five feet from the pole unless that location is technically infeasible or is not allowed by the pole owner for safety clearance;
(d) No strand-mounted device shall be located in or above the portion of the roadway open to vehicular traffic;
(e) Ground-mounted equipment to accommodate a shared mounted facility is not permitted except when placed in preexisting equipment cabinets or required by a third party electrical service provider;
(f) Pole-mounted equipment shall comply with the requirements of subsections (6)(a) and (b) of this section; and
(g) Such strand-mounted devices must be installed to cause the least visual impact and without excess exterior cabling or wires (other than the original strand).
(7) Small wireless facilities attached to existing buildings. In addition to complying with the applicable general standards in subsection (1) of this section, all small wireless facilities attached to existing buildings shall conform to the following design criteria:
(a) Small wireless facilities may be mounted to the sides of a building if the antennas do not interrupt the building’s architectural theme.
(b) The interruption of architectural lines or horizontal or vertical reveals is discouraged.
(c) New architectural features such as columns, pilasters, corbels, or other ornamentation that conceal antennas may be used if it complements the architecture of the existing building.
(d) Small wireless facilities shall utilize the smallest mounting brackets necessary in order to provide the smallest offset from the building.
(e) Skirts or shrouds shall be utilized on the sides and bottoms of antennas in order to conceal mounting hardware, create a cleaner appearance, and minimize the visual impact of the antennas. Exposed cabling/wiring is prohibited.
(f) To the extent technically feasible, small wireless facilities shall be painted and textured to match the adjacent building surfaces.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.110 Designated design zones for small wireless facilities.
The following zones are designated as design zones for the purpose of the application of the provisions of this chapter:
(1) City center core (CC-C);
(2) City center frame (CC-F);
(3) Designated landmark districts.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.120 Major wireless communication facility application and review process.
(1) Application. Upon receipt of a complete application for a major wireless communication facility, the application shall be processed as a process II application; provided, that temporary major WCFs are subject to process I review. See Chapters 19.60 and 19.55 FWRC.
(2) Public notice. Notice shall be provided as required for process I and II applications.
(3) Review. The director shall review the application for conformance with the application requirements and review criteria to determine whether the application is consistent with this chapter.
(4) Decision. A permit may be granted, granted with conditions pursuant to this chapter and the code, or denied. Any condition reasonably required to enable the proposed use to meet the standards of this chapter and code may be imposed. If the application cannot meet the standards of this chapter through the imposition of reasonable conditions, the application shall be denied.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.130 Major wireless communication facility application requirements.
(1) Process II permit applications for major WCFs, excluding temporary major WCFs, shall include the following minimum information in addition to that required for the underlying permit review process:
(a) A diagram or map showing the primary viewshed of the proposed facility.
(b) Three photo simulations of the proposed facility from affected properties and/or public rights-of-way at varying distances. These photo simulations should include examples of camouflage and stealth installation options, if applicable.
(c) Architectural elevations of proposed facility and site.
(d) If applicable, a propagation map of the proposed major WCF at the requested height and an explanation of the need for that facility at that height and in that location.
(e) An inventory of other major WCF sites operated by the applicant and all other service providers within a half-mile radius of the proposed major WCF location.
(f) A site/landscaping plan showing the specific placement of the major WCF on the site; showing the location of existing structures, trees, and other significant site features; and indicating type and locations of proposed plant materials used to screen WCF components.
(g) If the major WCF equipment cabinet is proposed to be located above ground, an explanation of why it is impracticable to locate the cabinet underground.
(h) Documentation of efforts to collocate on existing facilities.
(i) In proposing a major WCF in a particular location, the applicant shall analyze the feasibility of locating the proposed major WCF in each of the higher priority locations and document, to the city’s satisfaction, why locating the major WCF in each higher priority location and/or zone is not being proposed.
(j) If proposing a new tower, the applicant shall submit a signed statement indicating they agree to allow for the potential collocation of additional major WCF equipment by other service providers on the applicant’s structure or within the same wireless site location. If an applicant contends that future collocation is not possible on its site, it must submit a technical study documenting why.
(k) The city may require the applicant, at the applicant’s expense, to provide any additional information, mapping, studies, materials, inspections, or reviews that are reasonably necessary to implement this chapter and to require that such information, studies, mapping, materials, inspections, and reviews be reviewed by a qualified professional under contract to the city, also at the applicant’s expense.
(2) Process I permit applications for temporary WCFs shall include the following minimum information:
(a) Documentation of previously permitted facility, if applicable.
(b) Site plan showing proposed location of temporary WCF in relationship to the location of the previously permitted facility and property boundaries, including dimensions from the property lines and height of proposed facility.
(c) Mockups or other visual representations of the proposed facility.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.140 Prioritized locations for major wireless communication facilities.
The following sites shall be the required order of location for proposed major WCFs, including antenna and equipment enclosures. In order of preference, the prioritized locations for major WCFs are as follows:
(1) Structures located in the BPA transmission easement. A major WCF may be located on any existing support structure currently located in the easement upon which are located U.S. Department of Energy/Bonneville Power Administration (“BPA”) power lines regardless of underlying zoning.
(2) Existing wireless sites and towers. A major WCF may be located on an existing site or tower where a legal WCF is currently located regardless of underlying zoning. If an existing wireless site or tower is located within a half-mile radius of a proposed major WCF location, the applicant shall document why collocation on the existing wireless site or tower is not being proposed, regardless of whether the existing site or tower is located within the jurisdiction of the city.
(3) Institutional uses and structures. If the city, a utility, institutional uses, or other public agency consents to such location, a major WCF may be located on existing structures, such as water towers, utility structures, fire stations, bridges, churches, schools, and other public buildings within all zoning districts, provided the public facilities are not located within public rights-of-way.
(4) Appropriate zoning districts. A major WCF may be located in or on other public or private property, buildings, or structures within nonresidential zoning districts as allowed by the zoning chart.
(5) If the applicant demonstrates to the city’s satisfaction that it is not technically feasible to site in a prioritized location, or as expressly allowed by the zoning chart, the city reserves the right to approve alternative site locations if a denial would be in violation of the 1996 Telecommunications Act, as determined by the city through a process III review using the following test: Would denial of the application effectively prohibit the provision of service in violation of 47 USC 253 and/or 332?
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.150 Major wireless communication facility development standards.
The following development standards shall be followed in the design, siting, and construction of a major WCF:
(1) Building- or structure-mounted major WCFs on existing buildings or structures outside of the public right-of-way. Major WCFs mounted on existing buildings and structures shall conform to the following development standards:
(a) The equipment cabinet for the major WCF shall meet all requirements of subsection (4) of this section.
(b) The maximum size of the major WCF panels and number of antennas shall be the minimum necessary to achieve the service objective.
(c) The combined antennas and supporting structure may extend up to, but not exceed, 15 feet above the existing or proposed roof or other structure regardless of whether the existing structure is in conformance with the existing maximum height of the underlying zone as outlined in the use zone charts, Division VI, Zoning Regulations, of this title. Antennas may be mounted to rooftop appurtenances, as identified in FWRC 19.110.070, provided they do not extend beyond 15 feet above the maximum height of the structure as defined per FWRC 19.05.080, H definitions.
(d) The antennas are mounted on the building or structure such that they are located and designed to minimize visual and aesthetic impacts to surrounding land uses and structures.
(e) It is the applicant’s responsibility to prove that the proposed size of the major WCF panels and number of antennas is the minimum size and number necessary.
(f) Within residential zones, equipment enclosures, and buildings to house equipment cabinets located above ground shall meet all applicable setback requirements for residential development of the underlying zone. For developed sites in nonresidential zones, the setback requirements for the equipment enclosure shall be those of the principal use of the subject property. For undeveloped sites in nonresidential zones, the setback requirements for the equipment enclosure shall be 20 feet for front, side, and rear yards.
(g) The major WCF shall comply with all other applicable standards of this Code.
(2) New freestanding major WCFs. All requirements of the associated land use zoning charts must be met. Additionally, these structures shall conform to the following site development standards:
(a) Placement of a freestanding major WCF shall be denied if placement of the antennas on an existing structure can meet the applicant’s technical and network location requirements.
(b) Monopoles shall be the only freestanding structures allowed in the city; except that a lattice tower may be used to accommodate the collocation of four or more service providers as part of a joint permit application.
(c) A freestanding major WCF may not be located closer than 500 feet to an existing freestanding major WCF whether it is owned or utilized by the applicant or another service provider, unless the applicant demonstrates that a closer distance is justified by technical need or better screening result.
(d) A freestanding major WCF, including the support structure and associated equipment, shall comply with all required setbacks of the zoning district in which it is located. For developed sites, the setback requirements shall be those of the principal use of the subject property. For undeveloped sites, the setback requirements for new freestanding major WCFs shall be 20 feet for front, side, and rear yards.
(e) Freestanding major WCFs shall be designed and placed on the site in a manner that takes maximum advantage of existing trees, mature vegetation, and structures so as to:
(i) Use existing site features to screen as much of the total WCF as feasible from prevalent views; and/or
(ii) Use existing site features as a background so that the total major WCF blends into the background with increased distances.
(f) In reviewing the proposed placement of a facility on the site and any associated landscaping, the city may condition the application to supplement existing trees and mature vegetation to more effectively screen the facility.
(3) Standards for equipment cabinets. Equipment cabinets shall either:
(a) Be placed in a new or existing completely enclosed building. It is the applicant’s responsibility to prove that the proposed size of the building is the minimum size necessary to house the equipment; or
(b) Be placed above ground in a new or existing equipment enclosure. It is the applicant’s responsibility to prove that the proposed size of the equipment enclosure is the minimum size necessary to house the equipment.
If the equipment enclosure is located within a new enclosed building, the building shall conform to all applicable development standards and design guidelines for the underlying zone. The enclosed building shall be architecturally designed and shall be compatible with existing buildings on the site. The enclosed building shall be screened to the greatest extent feasible from any street and/or adjacent properties by landscaping and/or topography.
(4) Standards for equipment enclosures.
(a) Equipment enclosures shall not be allowed within the right-of-way.
(b) In residential zones, equipment enclosures located above ground on properties shall meet all applicable setback requirements for residential development of the underlying zone. For developed sites in nonresidential zones, the setback requirements for the equipment enclosure shall be those of the principal use of the subject property. For undeveloped sites in nonresidential zones, the setback requirements for the equipment enclosure shall be 20 feet for front, side, and rear yards; however, for undeveloped sites in nonresidential zones, if the applicant can demonstrate that the equipment enclosure can blend in harmoniously with the existing site and complement the landscape buffer requirements of the underlying zone, as determined appropriate by the director, the equipment enclosure can be located inside of the 20-foot setback but outside of the required landscaping buffer of the underlying zone.
(c) Equipment enclosures shall be designed, located, and screened to minimize adverse visual impacts from the public right-of-way and adjacent properties.
(d) Equipment enclosures shall be designed, located, and screened to minimize adverse visual and functional impacts on the pedestrian environment.
(e) Equipment enclosures and screening shall not adversely impact vehicular sight distance.
(5) Security fencing.
(a) No fence shall exceed six feet in height as stipulated in FWRC 19.125.160(5).
(b) Security fencing shall be effectively screened from view through the use of appropriate landscaping materials.
(c) Chain-link fences shall be painted or coated with a nonreflective color.
(6) Cumulative effects. The city shall consider the cumulative visual effects of major WCFs mounted on existing structures and/or located on a given permitted site in determining whether additional permits may be granted so as to not adversely affect the visual character of the city.
(7) Signage. No wireless equipment shall be used for the purpose of mounting signs or message displays of any kind, except for small signs used for identification, hazard warning, and name of service provider; provided, that safety signage as required by applicable laws, regulations, and standards is permitted.
(8) Use zone charts, height and permit process.
(a) The final approval authority for applications made under this section shall be defined by the appropriate permit process as outlined in the use zone charts, Division VI, Zoning Regulations, of this title.
(b) Allowed heights shall be established relative to the appropriate process as outlined in the use zone charts, Division VI, Zoning Regulations, of this title.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.160 Expiration of major wireless communication facility permit.
A major WCF permit issued under this chapter must be substantially implemented within three years from the date of final approval or the permit shall expire. The holder of the permit may request one extension to be limited to 12 months if the applicant cannot construct the major WCF within the original three-year period.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.170 Nonconformance exceptions.
Permit applications made under this chapter to locate a major WCF on property on which a nonconformance is located shall be exempt from the requirements of Chapter 19.30 FWRC, Nonconformance, to bring the property into conformance as follows:
(1) To provide the public improvements required by Chapter 19.135 FWRC, Development Improvements, as stipulated in FWRC 19.30.110.
(2) To bring the property into conformance with the development regulations prescribed in FWRC Title 16 relating to water quality as stipulated in FWRC 19.30.120(1)(g). All other requirements of FWRC 19.30.120 to bring the property into conformance with the development regulations prescribed in FWRC Title 16 relating to water quality shall apply.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.180 Temporary major wireless communication facilities.
(1) As determined by the director, a temporary major WCF may be deployed and operated with a process I approval as follows:
(a) The temporary major WCF creates no adverse public health or safety impacts.
(b) Only one temporary major WCF shall be permitted per single property.
(c) Prior to installation of the temporary major WCF, the applicant shall provide the city with a cash bond in an amount to be determined by the director in order to guarantee performance of future removal and restoration of the site.
(2) Temporary major WCF may be permitted for a duration not to exceed:
(a) Up to 90 days if for a community event; or
(b) Up to six months if the temporary major WCF applicant can demonstrate to the city’s satisfaction that the permanent underlying structure is being redeveloped.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.190 Collocation.
A permittee shall cooperate with other service providers in collocating additional antennas on support structures and/or on existing buildings and sites, provided said proposed collocatees have received a permit for such use at said site from the city. A permittee shall allow other service providers to collocate and share the permitted site, provided such shared use does not give rise to a technical impairment of the permitted use (as opposed to a competitive conflict or financial burden). In the event a dispute arises as to whether a permittee has exercised good faith in accommodating a new service provider, the city may require a third party technical study at the expense of the permittee. Failure to comply with this provision may result in a revocation of the permit.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.200 Removal of facility.
(1) Abandonment and removal. The owner or operator of a WCF shall provide the city with a copy of the notice of intent to cease operations required by the FCC at the time it is submitted to the FCC. Additionally, the owner or operator of a WCF shall notify the city in writing of the abandonment of a particular facility within 30 days of the date the WCF is abandoned. The abandoned WCF shall be removed by the facility owner within 90 days of the date the WCF is abandoned, the permit is revoked, or if the facility falls into disrepair and is not maintained, as determined by the city. Disrepair includes structural features, paint, landscaping, or general lack of maintenance that could result in adverse safety or visual impacts. If there are two or more users of a single tower, then the city’s right to remove the tower shall not become effective until all users abandon the tower.
(2) Partial abandonment and removal. If the abandoned antennas on any major WCF are removed or relocated to a point where the top 20 percent or more of the height of the supporting structure is no longer in use, the major WCF shall be considered partially abandoned. The owner or operator of any partially abandoned major WCF shall notify the city in writing of the partial abandonment of a particular facility within 30 days of the date the major WCF is partially abandoned. The owner of the major WCF shall have 120 days from the date of partial abandonment to collocate another service on the major WCF. If another service provider is not added to the major WCF within the allowed 120-day collocation period, the owner shall, in 210 days of partial abandonment, dismantle and remove that portion of the supporting structure that exceeds the point at which the highest operational antenna is mounted.
(3) Removal and lien. If the owner or operator fails to remove the abandoned or partially abandoned facility upon 210 days of its abandonment or partial abandonment, the responsibility for removal falls upon the property owner on which the abandoned or partially abandoned facility is located. The city may enforce this subsection using the procedures as set forth in Chapter 1.15 FWRC.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)
19.256.210 Revocation of permit.
A permit issued under this chapter may be revoked, suspended or denied for any one or more of the following reasons:
(1) Failure to comply with any federal, state, or local laws or regulations;
(2) Failure to comply with any of the terms and conditions imposed by the city on the issuance of a permit;
(3) When the permit was procured by fraud, false representation, or omission of material facts;
(4) Failure to cooperate with other major WCF providers in collocation efforts as required by this chapter;
(5) Failure to comply with federal standards for RF emissions; and
(6) Pursuant to FWRC 19.05.300(3), the city shall use the same criteria to determine if the permit shall be revoked as it used to grant the permit.
(Ord. No. 21-906, § 5, 1-19-21.)