Chapter 18.76 PARKING SPACES, PARKING LAYOUT AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS

A. This chapter is intended to regulate on- and off-street parking requirements for new construction and major alterations of existing structures, and to preserve the amount of off-street parking already provided for use on the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title;

B. To implement comprehensive parking management policies throughout the City, and to achieve a balance of transportation alternatives by including mass transit, walking, and bicycles in parking calculations;

C. To acknowledge and protect historic and existing uses which do not meet the City’s parking standards;

D. To identify areas within the City that require more specific parking requirements;

E. To reduce the creation of new impervious surfaces through lower required parking ratios, establishment of parking limits, shared parking facilities and the use of permeable pavements and low impact development best management practices;

F. To reduce traffic congestion and hazards;

G. To provide accessible, attractive, well-maintained and screened off-street parking facilities;

H. To provide aesthetically pleasing parking facilities in proportion to individual land use needs;

I. To provide a proactive approach to large events which may require additional parking for short periods of time;

J. To enable further study of unusual or unique uses in order to determine reasonable parking standards;

K. To ensure the maneuverability of emergency vehicles;

L. To establish off-street parking facilities that are safe and efficient. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.020 Applicability.

Off-street parking in conjunction with all land and building uses established after the enactment of the ordinance codified in this chapter shall be provided for to the satisfaction of the Building Official prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy.

Off-street parking may be either provided by an individual action parking program or carried out through public action by a special assessment district or otherwise.

This chapter shall be in addition to the provisions of the Washington Model Traffic Ordinance, Chapter 308-330 WAC, portions of which have been adopted by reference in Chapter 10.04 FMC, together with amendments or additions to or repeal of any section thereof on the subject of the ordinance (RCW 46.90.010). This chapter shall be construed in a manner that the provisions herein are separate and independent of the Washington Model Traffic Ordinance and in addition thereto and where there is a conflict between the provision of the Washington Model Traffic Ordinance and this chapter, the regulations of this chapter are controlling. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.030 Exemptions.

Provisions for the number of off-street parking spaces specified by this chapter shall be required as a condition of issuance of a certificate of occupancy for any structure which is constructed, erected, relocated or expanded within the City of Ferndale, except as follows:

A. Change of Use or Expansion of Use.

1. Whenever a use requiring off-street parking is increased in floor area by more than 50 percent of the existing building, the minimum number of additional parking spaces shall be based on actual square footage of the increase. Special exceptions may be granted by the Community Development Director upon finding that a specified lesser number of parking spaces will adequately serve the reasonably anticipated increase in parking needs.

2. Within the CC and UR zones, whenever a change in use occurs within a structure existing at the time of this amendment that would increase the average daily number of trips by more than 50 percent (regardless of a change in floor area), the applicant must provide additional parking spaces or demonstrate that a sufficient number of credits are available within 300 feet of the use.

3. When a change in use occurs outside the City’s designated parking core, and the change in use will require 50 percent more parking than the previous use, off-street parking spaces as required by this chapter shall be provided for the new use.

B. Existing Parking Lots.

1. Any area once designated as required off-street parking shall not be changed to any other use unless and until equal parking spaces which conform to the requirements of this chapter are provided elsewhere within 300 feet of subject property or as otherwise approved by the Zoning Administrator.

2. Off-street parking existing at the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title in connection with the operation of an existing building or use shall not be reduced to an amount less than hereinafter required for a similar new building or use. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.040 Definitions.

For the purposes of this chapter, unless otherwise noted, all uses shall be as defined in Chapter 18.08 FMC. The following definitions relate specifically to this chapter, though they may be referenced by additional chapters:

“Abandoned vehicle” shall mean:

1. Any vehicle left on a public right-of-way for more than 24 hours; or

2. On private property without the consent of the property owner.

“Advertising” shall mean the use of text, logos, art, the spoken word, or any other device for the purpose of offering a good, product, or service for sale, trade, or barter. The provisions of this section shall not restrict vehicles from featuring advertising, but shall prohibit the use of those vehicles as unpermitted permanent or semi-permanent stationary signs.

“Automobile hulk” shall mean any wrecked, dismantled or inoperative motor vehicle or part thereof which cannot be made an operative motor vehicle without the addition of vital parts or mechanisms and the application of a substantial amount of labor to effect repairs.

“Bioretention best management practices (BMPs)” shall mean engineered facilities that store and treat stormwater by passing it through a specified soil profile, and either retain or detain the treated stormwater for flow attenuation.

“Designated driveway” shall mean clearly defined roadway leading from the street which is surfaced by asphalt, concrete, gravel or similar material not to exceed 24 feet in width or such width as may be allowed in any other development standards adopted by the City of Ferndale.

“Double parking” shall mean the standing or stopping of a vehicle within the line of traffic for purposes other than observing normal traffic laws and regulations:

1. On the roadway side of a parked vehicle; or

2. On the roadway side of the space in which a vehicle may be parked.

“Driveway aisle” shall mean that vehicular corridor between two rows of parking (two-way driveway aisle), or between one row of parking and another feature (curbing, sidewalks, landscaping, etc.).

“Employee” shall mean a person who works for another person or company in exchange for pay, and will also include volunteers and interns.

“Enforcement officer” shall mean the City of Ferndale Building Official, his or her designee, or a City of Ferndale law enforcement official.

“Gasoline fueling pump” shall mean each fueling location within a gasoline station. The number of gasoline pumps shall be calculated based upon the number of vehicles capable of refueling at the same time within the gasoline station.

“Gasoline station, retail” shall mean an individual business, often in the form of a convenience store, which dispenses fuel for motor vehicles to the general public.

“Gasoline station, wholesale” shall mean a business, often associated with a larger business located on site, which dispenses fuel for motor vehicles at a discounted rate through the use of member pricing and/or club cards.

“Gross floor area” shall be expressed in square feet and calculated by the applicant, and shall include the area within the exterior building walls of all floors of a building or structure. Gross floor area shall include all occupiable areas minus the following deductions:

1. Vehicular parking and loading areas within the structure.

“Gross leasable area” shall be expressed in square feet and calculated by the applicant, and shall mean the gross floor area minus the following floor area deductions:

1. Elevator shafts and stairways.

2. Public restrooms.

3. Public lobbies, common mall areas, atriums and courtyards provided solely for pedestrian access to the building from the exterior, and/or for aesthetic enhancement or natural lighting purposes.

4. Permanently designated corridors (i.e., not subject to relocation by the requirements of a specific lease).

“Inoperable vehicle” shall mean a vehicle which is apparently inoperable or which requires repairs in order to be operated legally on the public roads, such as: repair or replacement of a window, windshield, wheel, tire, motor or transmission.

“Junk vehicle” means any vehicle including, but not limited to, automobiles, commercial vehicles, boats and trailers, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles certified under RCW 46.55.230 and meeting at least three of the following criteria:

1. Is three years old or older;

2. Is extensively damaged, such damage including, but not limited to, any of the following: a broken or missing window or windshield, missing wheels, tires, motor or transmission, rust or body damage covering more than 10 percent of the vehicle’s exterior surface, excluding undercarriage;

3. Is apparently inoperable;

4. Has an approximate fair market value equal only to the approximate value of the scrap in it;

5. Is not currently licensed by the state of Washington.

“Large events” shall mean events which (1) would utilize (or are expected to utilize) the total number of spaces dedicated to a specific use, or (2) will generate significant short-term traffic immediately prior to or following the event. These events shall include sporting events such as high school football games or playoff games and community events such as Pioneer Days, the Highland Games, or outdoor concerts, but shall not include regularly scheduled events such as motion picture showings in a movie theater. Events requiring a special events permit, including large funerals or weddings, may be required to meet this provision.

“Licensed vehicle dealer” shall mean an individual or company licensed by the state of Washington according to the provisions of RCW 46.70.021. Any individual or company selling more than five vehicles in a 12-month period shall be required to be a licensed vehicle dealer.

“Low impact development (LID) best management practices (BMPs)” shall mean distributed stormwater management practices, integrated into project design, that emphasize pre-disturbance hydrologic processes of infiltration, filtration, storage, evaporation and transpiration. LID BMPs include, but are not limited to, bioretention/rain gardens, permeable pavements, roof downspout controls, dispersion, soil quality and depth, minimal excavation foundations, vegetated roofs, and water re-use.

“Occasional or temporary visitor” shall mean a nonresidential family member or guest who has an established residence elsewhere who is visiting for not more than 30 days in a 12-month period; provided, if the visitor intends a longer than 30-day visit, the owner and visitor may apply for one 30-day extension with the Zoning Administrator, and the one 30-day extension may be granted where the visitor satisfactorily demonstrates that the motor home, tent, trailer, camper or other vehicle is not being used as a permanent residence.

“Parking area” includes the parking spaces together with driveways and the access to public street.

“Parking lift” shall mean a hydraulic or mechanical system designed to raise or lower parked vehicles in order to create additional parking space, typically above or below the lift and within an enclosed building.

“Parking stall or space” shall mean the designated parking area for one vehicle, the dimensions of which shall be in accordance with the City of Ferndale development standards. Ratios of compact spaces and ADA accessible spaces shall be determined upon application.

“Pedestrian-oriented zone” shall mean all areas within the City Center and urban residential zones, and is subject to amendment by the City Council. The pedestrian-oriented zone promotes pedestrian-scale uses, appearance, and activity, and includes certain specific parking requirements.

“Permeable pavement” shall mean pervious concrete, porous asphalt, permeable pavers or other forms of pervious or porous paving material intended to allow passage of water through the pavement section. It often includes an aggregate base that provides structural support and acts as a stormwater reservoir.

“Recreational vehicle” shall mean a vehicle used for personal pleasure or travel, but shall not be used in connection with a business endeavor.

“Screen” shall mean a permanent or semi-permanent sight-obscuring device, typically affixed to the ground or a structure, designed to minimize the visual impact of certain features on a site or group of sites. Screens may include, but are not limited to, vegetation, fences, or walls, but shall not include temporary devices such as tarps or vehicle covers.

“Stacking space” shall mean that area utilized by certain businesses to channel vehicles into a line while waiting for service.

“Vehicle” shall mean a conveyance that transports people or objects.

Any definitions not included herein shall be determined by the Zoning Administrator. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1790 § 3 (Exh. B), 2013; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.050 General requirements.

A. Off-street parking for other than residential use shall be either on the same lot or within 300 feet of the building it is intended to serve, except that in those cases where City parking has been developed for a special area, this distance may be extended by the Zoning Administrator. This distance may also be extended if the Zoning Administrator finds that the pedestrian route of travel is well lit and sufficiently protected from inclement weather; provided also, that ADA parking is provided in close proximity to the use, as per ADA standards.

B. Residential off-street parking spaces shall consist of a parking strip, driveway, garage, parking lift, or a combination thereof and shall be located on the lot they are intended to serve.

C. Two or more buildings or uses may collectively provide the required off-street parking, in which case the required number of parking spaces shall not be less than the sum of the requirements for the several individual uses computed separately. Legally binding documents shall be approved by the City Attorney and filed with the City Clerk and recorded at expense of the applicant in cases of mutual use of parking area.

D. The required off-street parking shall be for occupants, employees, visitors and patrons and shall be limited in use to parking unless other uses are shown on an approved site plan.

E. So long as operating hours do not materially overlap, the Zoning Administrator may grant an exception to the separate computation of individual uses in mutual use parking areas or the use of parking spaces.

F. The Zoning Administrator may determine the number of parking spaces required for uses not included in this chapter. For any use other than single-family residential development, the Zoning Administrator may require that the applicant provide a professional assessment of anticipated parking requirements and peak hours of operation, and may utilize such an assessment to reduce or modify parking requirements on a case-by-case basis. No modifications to the minimum dimensions of parking spaces will be considered without a variance. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.060 Stacking spaces.

A. All businesses which maintain drive-in facilities which are intended to serve customers who remain in their motor vehicles during business transactions shall be required to design their parking facilities to accommodate stacking space as provided in Table 1: Vehicle Stacking Requirements.

Table 1

Vehicle Stacking Requirements
Type of Operation	Minimum Number of Vehicles
Financial institution, with drive-up tellers	4 vehicles per window/kiosk
Financial institution, with drive-up ATM (if separate from drive-up tellers)	4 vehicles per window/kiosk
Car wash, self-service	2 vehicles per bay at entrance 1 vehicle per bay at exit
Car wash, automatic	6 vehicles per bay at entrance 1 vehicle per bay at exit
Restaurant, fast food and/or coffee shops with indoor seating	6, including 3 vehicles behind each menu board and 3 vehicles behind first window, or a combination of the two
Restaurant, fast food and/or coffee shops with no indoor seating	8 vehicles – 1 vehicle at window, 7 in stacking lane
Photo processing/pharmacy prescription pickup window	4 vehicles per window – 1 vehicle at window, 3 in line
Dry cleaning	2 vehicles per window
Retail gasoline/stations	2 vehicles per gasoline pump
Wholesale gasoline/stations	4 vehicles per gasoline pump

B. Driveway Locations. The location of entrances and exits shall be approved by the City Engineer or their designee.

C. Minimum Dimensions of Stacking Spaces. A stacking space is 12 feet wide by 20 feet long. The minimum inside turning radius of stacking lanes is 17 feet, six inches.

D. Stacking lanes shall not interfere with parking spaces, parking aisles, loading spaces, internal site circulation, or points of ingress and egress for vehicles or pedestrians, and shall not stack into any right-of-way. To meet this requirement, the Zoning Administrator, Public Works Director, or their designee may require that one or more signs be posted restricting vehicle stacking beyond a certain point. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.070 Off-street parking spaces required.

The minimum number of off-street parking spaces to be provided shall be determined in accordance with Table 2, below. Where parking spaces are based on the square footage of a building, the applicant shall provide the City with a calculation based on gross floor area, as defined by this title. The type and number of ADA-compliant parking spaces shall be subject to applicable state law, and each ADA parking space shall be considered as one parking space for the purposes of calculating required parking.

Table 2

Off-Street Parking Requirements
Use	Minimum Parking Requirements	Maximum Permissible Parking Spaces	Required Bicycle Spaces
Personal Transportation
Automobile sales	2.5 spaces for each employee and a minimum of 4 spaces	No maximum	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Automotive recycling, junkyards, impound yards or other similar operations which include storage of vehicles	1 space for each employee on the largest shift	1.5 spaces for each employee on the largest shift	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Automobile service establishments, including tire dealers, oil change facilities, car washes, auto body repair	2.5 spaces for each employee, minimum 4 spaces	3 spaces for each employee, minimum 4 spaces	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Bicycle or motorcycle rental and/or sales	2.5 spaces for each employee, minimum 4 spaces	3 spaces for each employee, minimum 4 spaces	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Park and ride	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)
Transportation center (includes bus, rail, and taxi stations)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)
Boat moorage	0.5 space for each moorage	1 space for each moorage
Entertainment and Dining
Dance or exhibition hall or place of assembly	1 space per each 100 square feet	1 space for each 75 square feet	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Drive-in restaurant	1 space per each 100 square feet	1 space for each 30 square feet	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Restaurant, tavern, or any other establishment for the sale and consumption of food, alcoholic beverage, or refreshment	1 space for each employee and 1 space per 6 seats	1 space for each employee and 1 space per 4 seats	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Restaurant, tavern, or any other establishment which includes sale and consumption of food combined with dance facilities	1 space for each employee and 1 space per 6 seats	1 space for each employee and 1 space per 4 seats	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Theater (indoor)	1 space per 100 square feet	1 space per 75 square feet	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Outdoor event space (concerts, outdoor theater, etc.)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)
Residential Uses
Accessory dwelling units	No minimum	No maximum	None
Complete life care retirement community	1 space for each 5 beds plus 1 space per each 4 regular employees plus 1 space per each 6 staff members	No maximum	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 15 vehicle parking stalls
Cooperative or group home	1 space per unit	No maximum
Duplex	2 spaces per unit	No maximum
Dwelling, single-family	2 spaces per unit	No maximum
Dwelling, multifamily	2 spaces per unit	No maximum
Dwelling, multifamily in UR or CC zone	Studio apartment: 1 space per unit One-bedroom apartment: 1.5 spaces per unit Multifamily dwellings with 2 or more bedrooms: 1.5 spaces per unit	No maximum
Group homes, including fraternity, sorority, or cooperative homes	1 space per each 2 occupants	No maximum
Rooming house or lodging house	1 space per room	No maximum
Mobile/manufactured home park	2 spaces per unit	No maximum
Cottage housing	2 spaces per unit	No maximum
Recreational and Cultural Uses
Batting cages, racquetball and tennis courts, driving ranges, miniature golf, shooting range	1 space per each batting cage, racquetball or tennis court, driving range tee, miniature golf hole, shooting range station plus 1 space per employee	1.5 spaces for each batting cage, racquetball or tennis court, driving range tee, miniature golf hole, shooting range station plus 1 space per employee	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Bowling alley	3 spaces per each alley	6 spaces per each alley	4 spaces, plus 1 space per each 5 vehicle parking stalls
Dance or video game establishment (not including restaurants/taverns with dancing facilities)	1 space per each 75 square feet	1 space per each 50 square feet	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Dart/billiard room	3 spaces per each dart board or billiard table	Five spaces per each dart board or billiard table	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Fitness center without instructional classes	1 space per each 300 square feet	1 space per each 150 square feet	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 7 vehicle parking stalls
Fitness center with instructional classes	1 space per each 200 square feet	1 space per each 100 square feet	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 7 vehicle parking stalls
Skating rink	1 space per each 100 square feet	1 space per each 75 square feet	2 spaces, plus 1 space per each 7 vehicle parking stalls
Campground	2 spaces per each camping space, plus 2 spaces for caretaker	No maximum
Golf course	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)
Public and private parks including trails	See FMC 18.76.050(F)
Community clubhouse	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Playfields	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Outdoor event space (concerts, outdoor theater, etc.)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Waterfront park	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Stadium, sports arena, auditorium or other place of assembly with fixed seats	1 space per each 4 fixed seats	1 space per each 2 fixed seats	1 space per each 10 vehicle stalls
Public pool	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	1 space for each 5 vehicle parking stalls
Running track	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	1 space for each 5 vehicle parking stalls
Senior center/activity center	1 space per each 400 square feet	1 space per each 100 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Motion picture theater	1 space per each 5 seats	1 space per each 3 seats	1 space for each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Library or museum	1 space per each 200 square feet open to the public	1 space per each 150 square feet open to the public	1 space for each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Services Uses, Health
Cemetery	1 space per each 40 square feet of chapel area, plus 1 space per each employee, sufficient space to accommodate large ceremonies on site	1 space per each 30 square feet of chapel area, plus 1 space per each employee, sufficient space to accommodate large ceremonies on site. Traffic control plan approved by City for large events	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Church, mortuary, or funeral home	1 space per each 4 seats in chapel or nave, plus 1 space per each employee	1 space per each 3 seats in chapel or nave plus 1 space per each employee; traffic control plan for large events submitted to City	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Clinic	1 space per each 300 square feet	1 space per each 250 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Convalescent center	1 space per each 4 residents	1 space per each 3 residents	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Hospital, sanitarium, convent, or home for the aged	1 space per each 5 beds plus 1 space per each 4 regular employees plus 1 space per each 6 staff members	No maximum	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Intermediate care facility (part of complete life care retirement community)	1 space per each 5 beds plus 1 space per each 4 regular employees plus 1 space per each 6 staff members	No maximum	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Mental health facility	1 space per each 5 beds plus 1 space per each 4 regular employees plus 1 space per each 6 staff members	No maximum	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Substance abuse treatment facility	1 space per each 300 square feet	1 space per each 250 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Veterinary office	5 spaces per each veterinarian	3 spaces per each veterinarian	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Service Uses, Lodging
Bed and breakfast	1 space per guest room plus 2 spaces for residence	No maximum	None
Boarding house	1 space per guest room plus 2 spaces for residence	No maximum	None
Hotel	1 space per unit	1.25 spaces per unit (banquet/meeting space evaluated separately)	1 space per each 20 vehicle parking stalls
Motel	1 space per unit plus 2 spaces for residence	1.25 spaces per unit (banquet/meeting space evaluated separately)	1 space per each 20 vehicle parking stalls
Retail Uses, Commercial
Retail, unless otherwise specified	1 space per each 333 square feet	1 space per each 200 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Farm equipment sales and service	2.5 spaces per each employee and a minimum of 4 spaces	1 space per each 200 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Grocery store or shopping center less than 1,600 square feet of retail space, 3,200 square feet total space (neighborhood grocery store)	6 spaces	10 spaces	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Grocery store or shopping center of 3,000 square feet or less (includes drug stores)	10 spaces	15 spaces	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Large, bulky items	1 space per each 350 square feet indoor space, 1 space per 1,000 square feet outdoor space	1 space per 200 square feet indoor space, 1 space per 50 square feet outdoor space	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Plant nursery	1 space per each 333 square feet indoor space, 1 space per each 1,000 square feet outdoor space	1 space per each 200 square feet indoor space, 1 space per each 750 square feet outdoor space	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Retail service shops	1 space per each 333 square feet	1 space per each 200 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Shopping center between 3,000 and 5,000 square feet	1 space per each 350 square feet, minimum 10	1 space per each 200 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Shopping center less than 3,000 square feet	10 spaces	15 spaces	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Supermarket or shopping center over 5,000 square feet	1 space per each 350 square feet	1 space per each 200 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Supermarket or shopping center of between 3,000 and 5,000 square feet	1 space per each 350 square feet	1 space per each 200 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Wholesale store	1 space per each 350 square feet	1 space per each 200 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Barber/beauty salon	2 spaces per station, minimum 3 spaces	3 spaces per station	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Education and Child Care*
* All educational facilities must provide adequate parking spaces to accommodate temporary parking on site during peak hours
Day care or day nursery (including family day care)	1 space per employee plus 4 spaces, or 1 space per 10 students	1 space per employee plus 8 spaces, or 1 space per 5 students	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Nursery school	1 space per employee plus 4 spaces, or 1 space per 10 students	1 space per employee plus 8 spaces, or 1 space per 5 students	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Kindergarten through middle school	1 space per employee plus 1 space per 10 students (auditoriums and stadiums counted separately)	No maximum	10 spaces per classroom
High school	1 space per class or office plus 1 space per 8 pupils of driving age (auditoriums and stadiums counted separately). A traffic control plan for large events must be submitted to the City	No maximum	5 spaces per classroom
Institution of higher education	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)
Storage Uses
Kennel	1 space per each 12 animal enclosures 1 space per each 250 square feet of retail sales area 2 spaces per each dwelling unit	1 space per 10 animal enclosures, 1 space per 200 square feet of retail sales area	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Moving and storage company	1 space per each 300 square feet of office, minimum 4, plus 2 spaces for caretaker	1 space per each 200 square feet of office, plus 2 spaces for caretaker	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Mini-storage facility	1 space per each 300 square feet of office, minimum 4, plus 2 spaces for caretaker	1 space per each 200 square feet of office, plus 2 spaces for caretaker	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Warehouse	1 space per each 2,000 square feet, 3 spaces minimum (structure less than 20,000 square feet) 1 space per each 2,500 square feet, 10 spaces minimum (structure 20,001 – 99,999 square feet) 1 space per each 3,000 square feet, 40 spaces minimum (structure greater than 100,000 square feet)	1 space per each 1,500 square feet (structure less than 20,000 square feet) 1 space per each 2,000 square feet (structure 20,001 – 99,999 square feet) 1 space per each 2,500 square feet (structure greater than 100,000 square feet)	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Essential Public Facilities
Correctional facility	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)
Electrical distribution substation	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)
Manufacturing Uses
Food processing	1 space per each employee on the largest shift	1.5 spaces per each employee on the largest shift	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Junkyard	1 space per each 1,000 square feet of office area, minimum 4 spaces	1 space per each 750 square feet of office area	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Laboratory – research and development	1 space per each employee on the largest shift	1.5 spaces per each employee on the largest shift	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Manufacturing use	1 space per each employee on the largest shift	1.5 spaces per each employee on the largest shift
Manufacturing use – low intensity, live-work (single-tenant art studios, sculpture and photographic studios with less than 4 employees)	1 space per each unit, or 1 per each 500 square feet, whichever is larger	2 spaces per unit or 1 space over each 300 square feet, whichever is larger	1 space per unit, minimum 2
Office Uses
Banks and financial institutions	1 space per each 300 square feet	1 space per each 200 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Business services	1 space per each 300 square feet	1 space per each 200 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Professional office	1 space per each 300 square feet	1 space per each 200 square feet	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Other Uses
Agriculture	All parking must be contained on site	No maximum
Auction house	1 space per each 2 seats	1 space per 1.5 seats	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Convention center, including banquet facilities and/or meeting halls	See FMC 18.76.050(F)	See FMC 18.76.050(F)
Home occupation	Type 1: as per residential requirements Type 2: see FMC 18.76.050(F)	Type 1: as per residential requirements – no additional spaces shall be established for the purposes of the home occupation Type 2: see FMC 18.76.050(F)
Service station	3 spaces, plus 2 spaces per station	4 spaces, plus 3 spaces per station	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Towing service	1.5 spaces per each truck (not including yard)	3 spaces per tow truck (not including yard)	1 space per each 10 vehicle parking stalls
Truck stop	All parking must be contained on site	No maximum

(Ord. 2174 § 2, 2021; Ord. 1995 § 4 (Exh. 1), 2017; Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.080 Employee parking.

Owners and employees of businesses within the pedestrian-oriented zone shall be encouraged to park their vehicles in areas of low parking congestion, and to utilize available carpooling opportunities or other modes of transportation to and from work. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.090 Off-street parking credits.

Limited credits shall be allowed toward off-street parking requirements in the following circumstances:

A. Within the CC and UR zones, the parking space requirement of this title can be reduced by 25 percent. This is to be done by deducting 25 percent from the gross floor area prior to calculating required spaces per square foot.

B. Within the CC and UR zones, a commercial or mixed-use commercial-residential development may receive credit for one space for each two on-street spaces within 300 feet of the property line frontage of the use.

C. Regardless of other credits and parking reductions permitted herein, all residential uses in the pedestrian-oriented zone shall have a minimum of one dedicated off-street parking space per residential unit. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.100 ADA accessibility.

Parking within the City of Ferndale shall conform to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, as required by law. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

Article II. Parking Standards and Layout

18.76.110 Parking lot layout, construction and maintenance.

A. Responsibility for Construction. The party developing an off-street parking area shall submit to the Zoning Administrator for approval a plan of the parking area showing adjacent streets, proposed circulation of traffic, proposed location, type, and size of individual parking spaces, proposed drainage, lighting and landscaping, fencing and screening planting. The plan shall also include a table listing the number and type of parking spaces.

B. Repealed by Ord. 1915.

C. Repealed by Ord. 1915.

D. Minimum Construction Necessary for Occupancy. All required off-street parking areas shall be graded and paved to a standard comparable to the street which serves the parking area as determined by the Administrator and shall be developed and completed to the required standard before a certificate of occupancy for the building is issued. Pervious pavement is encouraged. All traffic-control devices such as parking strips, designated car stalls, directional arrows or signs, rails, curbs and other developments shall be installed and completed as shown on the approved plans. Hard surfaced parking areas shall use paint or similar devices to delineate car stalls and direction of traffic. Where pedestrian walks are used in parking lots for the use of foot traffic only, they shall be raised six inches above the lot surface and shall be a minimum of four feet wide.

E. Repealed by Ord. 1915.

F. Repealed by Ord. 1915.

G. Responsibility to Demonstrate Compliance. Before the granting of a building permit for any new building or structure, or for any enlargement thereof or a change of use, the applicant must present in writing the arrangements that have been made to provide any required off-street parking.

H. Repealed by Ord. 1915.

I. Customer Spaces Designated. When due regard to public safety so indicates, the Zoning Administrator may require that up to 50 percent of the required off-street parking area must be clearly marked as customer parking with signs as necessary directing the public to the premises from adjacent street or streets. During business hours, customer vehicles only may occupy parking spaces so marked.

J. Pedestrian/Vehicle Interface at Entrances. With regard to parking lot design, the applicant shall eliminate vehicle travel directly in front of the primary entrance where practical alternatives exist, in the judgment of the Zoning Administrator, so as to establish a “vehicle free zone” between the parking lot and the facility. This zone shall be protected with bollards or other devices which may be removed in emergencies. Speed tables or similar traffic-control devices may also be employed to reduce pedestrian-vehicle conflicts.

K. Parking Garage Clearance Height. Parking garages either above or below ground shall observe a minimum height clearance of seven feet, six inches.

L. Recreational Vehicle Parking. Developments may provide parking for recreational vehicles or other oversized vehicles in appropriately sized vehicle spaces, screened from the public right-of-way. Parking lot camping is prohibited except in designated spaces, and no vehicles may be permitted to stay more than 72 hours. It is the responsibility of the developments’ management to maintain a log of such vehicles, including license plate numbers and arrival and departure times. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.120 Loading space requirements.

An off-street loading space having access to a public thoroughfare shall be required adjacent to each building hereafter erected or enlarged to the extent specified in FMC 18.76.020 if the use of such building entails deliveries or shipments to or from it. Such loading space shall be of adequate size to accommodate the number and size of vehicles simultaneously loaded or unloaded in connection with the business conducted in such building. No part of the truck or van shall extend into the public right-of-way when using the loading space. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.130 Parking space standards.

A. Automobile Parking.

1. Except for compact car spaces, each parking space shall be nine feet wide and 19 feet long. Twenty-five percent of the total spaces required may be for compact cars only. These spaces must be so designated. Each compact space shall be at least eight feet wide and 16 feet long.

2. Parking space depth may be reduced when vehicles overhang a walkway under the following conditions:

a. Wheelstops or curbs are installed.

b. The remaining walkway provides a minimum of 60 inches of unimpeded passageway for pedestrians.

c. The amount of space depth reduction is limited to a maximum of one and one-half feet for standing parking spaces and one and one-half feet for compact spaces including the wheelstop or curb.

B. Motorcycle and Bicycle Parking.

1. Motorcycle spaces may be proposed to replace automobile parking spaces at a ratio of two motorcycle spaces per 20 automobile spaces. The Zoning Administrator may authorize a reduction in automobile parking for parking lots with less than 20 spaces. Motorcycle spaces shall be a minimum of three feet, four inches wide and seven feet deep.

2. Bicycles shall be docked to a stationary object through which a user can secure the frame of a bicycle using a six-foot cable and lock. The stationary object may be either a freestanding bicycle rack or a wall-mounted bracket. The applicant may propose alternative bicycle racks or storage options, subject to the approval of the Zoning Administrator. Bicycle racks which support the entire bicycle, rather than one wheel only, are encouraged.

3. For long-term bicycle parking for employees or residents, indoor, high security bicycle storage shall be encouraged. Such storage may consist of video monitoring, locked bicycle storage cabinets, security lighting, or additional measures.

4. For short-term bicycle parking for customers and the general public, bicycle parking and storage shall be located in close proximity to the front door of the business establishment, or, in the case of multiple businesses, bicycle parking shall be placed in multiple locations or near the center of the development. The bicycle parking shall be in plain view and well lit. Covered bicycle parking is optional, but encouraged.

5. No bicycle parking shall be located in such a manner that will interfere with pedestrian movement or access into or out of businesses or residences, or along sidewalks and pedestrian corridors.

6. Bicycle parking may be consolidated into one common area for multiple uses or businesses, and may include a one-third deduction in total bicycle spaces required for all participating uses. The applicant must demonstrate that a written, recorded and/or filed legal agreement exists for shared bicycle parking, and must also establish that the bicycle parking is within 150 feet of the front entrance of all participating businesses. Businesses located at a distance greater than 150 feet from a bicycle parking rack may participate in an agreement if they can demonstrate that a covered walkway (or similar) exists along the pedestrian route of travel. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.140 Parking lot standards.

Except for where specifically listed below, parking lot design standards shall be subject to the most current version of the Ferndale design standards.

A. All private or public parking lots shall reflect the minimum design dimensions described in Table 3, below, and as shown in the Ferndale Development Standards Parking Detail drawings. In those cases where parking configuration is unlike those described below, the applicant shall demonstrate to the City that the proposed design enables adequate turning movements within the lot.

Table 3

Off-Street Parking Dimension Table
	45-Degree Parking	60-Degree Parking	90-Degree Parking	Parallel Parking
Parking Stall Width (A)	9' (Compact: 8')	9' (Compact: 8')	9' (Compact: 8')	9' (Compact: 8')
Parking Stall Length (B)	19' (Compact: 16')	19' (Compact: 16')	19' (Compact: 16')	19' (Compact: 16')
Width of Driveway Aisle (C)	13'	18'	25'	12'
Width of One-Way Access Driveway (D)	14'	14'	14'	14'
Width of Parking Lot Access Driveway (E)	24'	24'	24'	24'

B. Driveway Dimensions. When off-street parking is provided in the rear of a building and a driveway or land alongside the building provides access to the rear parking area, such driveway shall have a minimum width of 12 feet and provisions for a four-foot minimum width sidewalk accessing the rear of the building either abutting or in close proximity to the driveway, raised six inches above the driveway surface, shall be included.

C. Sidewalks. Parking lot circulation shall allow for access so pedestrians and wheelchairs can easily gain access from public sidewalks and bus stops to building entrances through the use of pedestrian/wheelchair paths which are physically separated from vehicle traffic and maneuvering areas. All developments must provide specially marked or paved walkways through parking areas. Generally, walkways should be provided every four rows and a maximum distance of 180 feet shall be maintained between paths. Where possible, align the pathways to connect with major building entries or other sidewalks, pathways, or destinations. The Community Development Director shall have the authority to modify this standard for small projects of less than 50 stalls, or where site conditions make the pathways ineffective and not beneficial to pedestrians. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009)

18.76.145 Surfacing.

All required parking and loading spaces, together with driveways, aisles and circulation areas, shall be surfaced with a permanent durable surfacing appropriate for the soil type, use, proximity to the public right-of-way and associated vehicular traffic acceptable to the Public Works Director. Permeable surfacing materials are encouraged when site and soil conditions make it a feasible alternative. Beginning January 1, 2017, permeable pavement is required when feasible, per the thresholds and standards in the City’s stormwater control ordinance, Chapter 13.34 FMC. Permeable surfacing includes, but is not limited to: paving blocks, turf block, pervious concrete, porous asphalt, and other similar approved materials. Gravel shall not be allowed as permeable surfacing. Pervious materials shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the most current Department of Ecology Stormwater Management Manual for Western Washington, City of Ferndale design standards and the manufacturer’s specifications. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015)

18.76.150 Drainage.

All parking and loading areas shall provide for proper drainage of surface water to prevent the drainage of such water onto adjacent properties or walkways. Off-site drainage improvements and maintenance easements shall be secured as necessary to prevent damage to downstream property and prevent degradation of water quality. The City shall consider reasonable reductions to dimensional and surfacing requirements when appropriate to reduce the impact of stormwater facilities necessary to meet drainage requirements, provided no reduction in minimum life-safety, pedestrian access, or vehicle maneuverability is proposed.

A. Credit for Bioretention BMPs. Bioretention BMPs that are distributed throughout the parking facility and are designed to infiltrate, store and/or slowly convey storm flows shall be considered for credits against the landscaping requirements of Chapter 18.74 FMC. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015)

18.76.155 Maintenance.

The owner of property used for parking and/or loading shall maintain such area in good condition without holes and free of all dust, trash and other debris. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015)

18.76.160 Lighting.

Any parking area which is intended to be used during non-daylight hours shall be properly illuminated to avoid accidents and deter criminal activity. Any lights used to illuminate a parking lot shall utilize equipment such as capped lights or fixtures designed to minimize glare to surrounding properties. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015)

18.76.165 Location of parking spaces.

Unless otherwise regulated in a more restrictive manner, the following regulations shall govern the location of off-street parking spaces and areas in relation to the principal uses for which they are intended to serve. These regulations do not reduce requirements for uses to establish ADA-accessible parking in closer proximity.

A. Parking spaces for all one- and two-family dwellings shall be located on the same lot as the dwelling they are intended to serve.

B. Parking spaces for commercial, industrial or institutional uses shall be located not more than 700 feet from the principal use. Parking lots further than 700 feet from the principal use may be approved by the Zoning Administrator. Fleet vehicle parking associated with the principal use is exempt from these requirements.

C. Parking spaces for apartments, dormitories or similar residential uses shall be located not more than 300 feet from the principal use. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015)

18.76.170 Access.

Except for one- and two-dwelling residential uses, any parking area shall be designed in such a manner that any vehicle leaving or entering the parking area from or into a public or private street shall be traveling in a forward motion. Access of driveways for parking areas or loading areas shall be located in such a way that any vehicle entering or leaving such lot shall be clearly visible for a reasonable distance to any pedestrian or motorist approaching the access or driveway from a public or private street. This requirement shall also apply to parking areas of two or less required spaces only when exits are on state highways or City arterials. No building permit shall be issued until access is approved by the Community Development Department in consultation with the Public Works Department. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015)

18.76.175 Circulation.

The entrances and exits to the parking area shall be clearly marked, and vision clearance shall be provided at the end of each row of parked vehicles.

A. Parking lots shall be designed to require no more than a two-point turn to exit out of any parking space, assuming no conflicts with pedestrians, carts, or vehicles within the stall or drive aisles.

B. With the exception of parallel parking stalls, all parking lots shall be designed to allow vehicles to enter stalls in one forward motion. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015)

18.76.180 Striping.

All paved parking areas shall be striped between stalls to facilitate the movement into and out of the parking stalls. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015)

18.76.185 Landscaping.

Landscaping within parking lots shall be established pursuant to Chapter 18.74 FMC.

A. Any parking spaces abutting a landscaped area on the driver or passenger side of the vehicle shall provide an additional 18 inches above the minimum space width requirement to provide a place to step other than in the landscaped area. The additional width shall be separated from the adjacent parking space by a parking space division stripe. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015)

Article III. Administrative Policies

18.76.190 Conflict with other provisions.

Where there is a conflict between the regulations of this chapter and the regulations of any other section of this code, the regulations of this chapter shall prevail; provided, however, that the regulations of other sections shall prevail in the following cases:

A. Where the regulations of any other section are more restrictive.

B. Where a planned unit development (PUD) or other similar private development has been established in accordance with procedures set forth in Chapter 18.68 or 18.69 FMC; provided, that any such planned unit development regulations shall include comprehensive parking regulations encompassing the entire planned unit development area, and there is no risk to life, safety, and general welfare. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009. Formerly 18.76.150)

18.76.200 Nonconforming parking continuance.

Any existing parking lot that was an allowed use prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter may be continued in its current configuration and be maintained after said effective date and shall become a legal nonconforming use provided:

A. The configuration of any parking stall or parked vehicle shall not be changed in any manner that increases its noncompliance with the provisions of the ordinance codified in this chapter.

B. Normal maintenance and upkeep of nonconforming parking lots, including restriping, repaving, and the addition or replacement of vehicle stops; provided, that the total number of parking spaces is not changed, and installation or replacement of lighting may be allowed; provided, that the work does not increase the nonconformity of the parking lot.

C. Activities that are prohibited by this chapter shall have 90 days after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter or after annexation of property into the City of Ferndale to be brought into conformity with this chapter.

D. When a parking lot is altered, reducing or increasing the number or size of parking spaces, access points, etc., it ceases to be a legal nonconforming lot and must be brought into conformance with the provisions of this chapter. Any act which enlarges the size of parking lots shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter.

E. When a business utilizing a parking space or parking lot changes or expands to a point that additional parking is required, it shall be the responsibility of the business to create additional parking according to the requirements of this chapter. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009. Formerly 18.76.160)

18.76.210 Severability.

If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this chapter shall be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of any other section, sentence, clause or phrase of this chapter. (Ord. 1915 § 1 (Exh. 1), 2015; Ord. 1762 § 1 (Att. 1), 2013; Ord. 1522, 2009. Formerly 18.76.170)