Chapter 20.01 ADMINISTRATION OF LAND USE AND ZONING APPLICATIONS AND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS

In enacting this title, the city council intends to establish an integrated permit review process, including environmental review, that implements the provisions of Chapter 36.70B RCW (the Regulatory Reform Act ESHB 1724) while ensuring compliance, conformity, and consistency of proposed projects with the city’s adopted comprehensive plan and development regulations. (Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.020 Definitions.

The following definitions apply throughout this title:

A. “Adjacent landowners” means the owners of real property, as shown by the records of the county assessor, located within 300 feet of any portion of the boundary of the proposed subdivision.

B. “Aggrieved party” is a party of record who can demonstrate the following:

1. The land use decision will prejudice the person;

2. The asserted interests are among those the city is required by city code to consider in making a land use decision; and

3. A decision on appeal in favor of the person would substantially eliminate or redress the prejudice alleged to be caused by the land use decision.

C. “Appellant” means a person, organization, association or other similar group who files a complete and timely appeal of a city decision.

D. “Applicant” means a person who is the owner of the subject property or the authorized representative of the owner of the subject property, and who has applied for land use permits.

E. “Hearing examiner” means a position appointed and created pursuant to Chapter 2.10 SMC to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the staff and to authorize upon appeal in specific cases such variances from the provision of the zoning ordinance or other land use regulatory ordinances as the city may adopt.

F. “City” means the city of Sequim, Washington.

G. “City council” means the city of Sequim city council.

H. “Closed record appeal” means an administrative appeal on the record to a local government body or officer, including the legislative body, following an open record hearing on a project permit application when the appeal is on the record with no or limited new evidence or information allowed to be submitted and only appeal argument allowed.

I. Days. All days are calendar days unless otherwise specified.

J. “Department” means the department of community development.

K. “Director” shall mean the director of the department of community development or his/her designee.

L. Effective Date of Decisions. All preliminary and final decisions shall be effective on the date stated in SMC 20.02.010.

M. Effective Date of Notices. All notices provided to applicants and any members of the public shall be effective on the date deposited in the mail and when first published or posted on properties.

N. “Ministerial” means an action that allows for little description and requires adherence to previous decisions or adopted rules and regulations.

O. “Open record hearing” means a hearing, conducted by a single hearing body or officer, that creates the record through testimony and submission of evidence and information. An open record hearing may be held prior to a decision on a project permit to be known as an “open record predecision hearing.” An open record hearing may be held on an appeal, to be known as an “open record appeal hearing,” if no open record hearing has been held on the project permit.

P. “Parties of record” means the land use permit applicant, persons who have testified at an open record hearing, and any persons who have submitted written comments concerning the application that form part of the public record that is considered at the open record hearing (excluding persons who only signed petitions or mechanically produced form letters).

Q. “Project permit” or “project permit application” means any land use or environmental permit or license required from the city for a project action, including but not limited to subdivisions, planned unit developments, conditional uses, shoreline substantial development permits, permits or approvals required by Chapter 18.80 SMC, Critical and Environmentally Sensitive Areas Protection, as amended, site-specific rezones authorized by the Sequim comprehensive plan or a formally adopted subarea plan, but excluding the adoption or amendment of the Sequim comprehensive plan, a subarea plan, or development regulations except as otherwise specifically included in this subsection.

R. “Public workshop” or “public meeting” means an informal meeting or other public gathering of people to obtain comments from the public or other agencies on a proposed project permit prior to a decision. A public workshop may include, but is not limited to, a design review, a special review district or community council meeting, or a scoping meeting on a draft environmental impact statement. A public meeting does not include an open record hearing. The proceedings at a public workshop may be recorded and a report or recommendation may be included in the local government’s project permit application file.

S. “Sequim Municipal Code” means Sequim Municipal Code as amended.

T. “Type A-1 process” means a process which involves an application that is subject to clear, objective and nondiscretionary standards that require the exercise of professional judgment about technical issues and therefore does not require public participation.

U. “Type A-2 process” means a process which involves an application that is subject to objective and subjective standards that require the exercise of limited discretion about non-technical issues and about which there may be a limited public interest.

V. “Type B process” means a process which involves an application that is subject to standards that require the exercise of certain discretion and about which there may be a considerable public interest.

W. “Type C-1, C-2, C-3 processes” means processes which involve applications that require the exercise of substantial discretion and about which there is a broad public interest. (Ord. 2023-001 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2019-004 (Exh. B); Ord. 2012-001 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 2011-017 §§ 1, 2; Ord. 2002-014; Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.030 Procedural framework by application or subject type.

A. Administrative Process.

1. The Type A-1 process does not require public notice. See Procedural Framework Table for the permit types subject to the A-1 process. See SMC 20.01.080 for the process overview for A-1 applications.

2. The Type A-2 process requires public notice. See Procedural Framework Table for the permit types subject to the A-2 process. See SMC 20.01.090 for the process overview for A-2 applications.

3. Appeals of department decisions or actions taken in A-1 or A-2 processes are directed to the hearing examiner in accordance with Chapter 2.10 SMC. Appeals of the hearing examiner’s final decision are directed to the superior court. See SMC 20.01.240.

B. Quasi-Judicial Type B and Type C Process.

1. The Type B process and most Type C processes are quasi-judicial and require public notice and a public hearing. See SMC 20.01.100 for the process overview for Type B, Type C-1, and Type C-2 quasi-judicial decisions.

2. Decisions or actions taken in all Type B and most Type C processes are heard and decided by the hearing examiner in accordance with Chapter 2.10 SMC.

3. Exception. Applications for rezones of general applicability, comprehensive plan amendments, and disputes of standalone administrative interpretations are Type C processes determined by the city council instead of the hearing examiner. See subsection C of this section.

C. Legislative Process. Some Type C processes that involve rezones of general applicability, comprehensive plan amendments, ordinances and other development regulations, and disputes of standalone administrative interpretations are legislative decisions within the authority of the legislative body of the city, the city council. See SMC 20.01.070(B). Appeals of these matters are directed to superior court or other hearing body with jurisdiction as required under state law.

Procedural Framework Table
Administrative (Department Director)	Quasi-Judicial (Hearing Examiner)	Legislative (City Council and/or Planning Commission)
Type A-1 Permits	Type B Permits	Type C-2
Building permits	Variances	Comprehensive plans
Construction permits	Type C-1 Permits	Rezones of general applicability
Sign permits	Major use permits	Standalone administrative interpretations
Boundary line adjustments	Shoreline permits	Dedications and vacations of public easements and rights-of-way
Minor amendments to planned residential developments	Type C-2 Permits	Acceptance of public improvements
Home occupations	Special uses/essential public facilities	Ordinances and other land use development regulations
Street uses	Conditional use permits (CUPs)	Annexation
Endangered Species Act, shoreline, and wetland exemptions	Major amendments to planned residential developments
Administrative interpretations	Preliminary subdivisions
Type A-2 Permits	Preliminary binding site plans
SEPA threshold determinations	Site-specific rezones1
Endangered Species Act, shoreline, and wetland permits	Plat alterations/vacations
Preliminary short subdivisions	Street vacations1
Design review
Administrative conditional use permit (ACUP)
Appeals of decisions made in this category go to the hearing examiner per Chapter 2.10 SMC	Appeals of decisions made in this category go to Clallam County superior court	Appeals of decisions made in this category go to Washington State Growth Management Hearings Board, or other hearing body with jurisdiction

1 Recommendation only – final decision made by city council in accordance with RCW 35A.63.170 and 35.79.030.

1. Denials of administrative permits must be reviewed by the city attorney for legality before becoming final.

2. Types of Development Permit Applications. For the purpose of project permit processing, all development permit applications are subject to a Type A-1 and Type A-2 process, Type B, or Type C-1, Type C-2, and Type C-3 process as defined in SMC 20.01.020. A Type A-1 is an administrative process which does not require public notice; a Type A-2 process is an administrative process which requires public notice; a Type B is a quasi-judicial process which requires a public hearing; a Type C-1 process is quasi-judicial and requires a public hearing. Type C-2 processes are quasi-judicial or legislative and require public hearings. Type C-3 are largely ministerial and do not require a public hearing. Exemptions from the requirements of project permit application processing as defined in this chapter are contained in SMC 20.01.070.

3. Burden of Proof. In accordance with Chapter 2.10 SMC, the project proponent or applicant bears the burden of proof for “project permit” or “project permit application” processes as defined in this chapter. The proponent or applicant must provide convincing evidence to the decisionmakers that the application conforms to applicable law, including, but not limited to, the Growth Management Act, SEPA, the Sequim Municipal Code, all developmental regulations, and the city’s comprehensive plan. The proponent must also present convincing evidence that any significant adverse environmental impacts have been adequately mitigated. (Ord. 2022-024 § 2 (Exh. B); Ord. 2022-010 § 1 (Exh. A))

20.01.040 Determination of proper type of procedure.

A. Type of Application. The act of classifying an application shall be a Type A-1 action. Classification of an application shall be subject to reconsideration and appeal at the same time and in the same way as the merits of the application in question.

B. Determination of Director. The director shall determine the proper procedure for all development applications. If there is a question as to the appropriate type of procedure, the director shall resolve it in favor of the higher procedure type letter as defined in SMC 20.01.030. (Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.045 Administrative interpretations.

The directors of the community development and public works departments are responsible for the administration and interpretation of the city’s land use, zoning, and development regulations and standards, including this title.

A. Counter Information. The director or designees respond to inquiries from members of the public regarding the applicability and interpretation of various code provisions before or outside the context of a specific development permit application. Unless an official interpretation is requested in writing, these general counter requests for information are provided as a public convenience only and will not be processed or be subject to appeal.

B. Formal Interpretation.

1. The community development director is responsible for administering the provisions of SMC Titles 15, 16, 17, 18, the shoreline master program (SMC Title 19), and this title.

2. The public works director is responsible for administering the development-related portions of SMC Titles 15, 16, 17, and 18 not otherwise delegated to the community development director, or other development-related permits or approvals that may be included in other titles of this code, including, but not limited to, SMC Titles 8, 10, 12, 13, and 22.

3. Each director is vested with the authority to interpret the meaning of those provisions of the above referenced titles as required to reasonably administer the provisions on a day-to-day basis. In addition, any citizen may request a formal interpretation of these code provisions by submitting a written request and paying the fee to the appropriate director. The director will interpret the meaning or application of those provisions and issue a written interpretation within 30 calendar days. Formal written requests for code interpretation must concisely identify the issue, applicable code revision(s), and desired interpretation.

C. The director’s decision must be consistent with the spirit and intent of the applicable titles, including this title, and of the city’s comprehensive plan. The requirements of this section are the minimum requirements used when interpreting and applying the regulations of this section, unless otherwise stated.

D. All formal administrative interpretations will be kept and posted on the city’s website until codified through an appropriate code amendment.

E. At the written request of an applicant or property owner setting forth a valid reason, the director may authorize a variation of up to 10 percent of any numerical standard. The director’s response, including findings for granting the variation, must be in writing and kept on permanent file.

F. Appeals of an administrative interpretation are handled pursuant to this chapter.

G. The fee for administrative interpretations is as listed in Chapter 3.68 SMC, Rates and Fees. (Ord. 2022-009 § 1 (Exh. A))

20.01.050 Projects requiring two or more permit applications.

A. Optional Consolidation. A project that involves two or more permit applications may be subject to a consolidated project permit review process as established in this chapter. The applicant may determine whether the applications shall be processed collectively or individually. If the applications are processed under the individual procedure option, the highest type procedure must be processed prior to the subsequent lower procedure.

B. Consolidated Permit Processing. When the project is reviewed under the consolidated procedure option, the highest procedure required for any part of the project application must be applied. All project permits being reviewed through the consolidated permit review process shall be included in the following:

1. Determination of completeness;

2. Notice of application;

3. Notice of final decision;

4. Single report stating all the decisions made and any mitigation required or proposed under the development regulations or the agency’s authority under RCW 43.21C.060.

C. Public Hearing for Consolidated Applications. The review process shall provide for no more than one consolidated open record hearing and one closed record appeal. If an open record predecision hearing is provided prior to the decision on a project permit, the process shall not allow a subsequent open record appeal hearing.

D. Decisionmaker(s). Applications processed in accordance with subsection B of this section which have the same highest numbered procedure but are assigned different hearing bodies will be heard collectively by the highest decisionmaker(s).

E. Consolidation with the Other Government Agencies. The city is also authorized to consolidate project review with the permit procedures of other government agencies. Joint public hearings with other agencies shall be processed according to SMC 20.01.060. (Ord. 2022-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2019-004 (Exh. B); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.060 Joint public hearings (other public agency hearings).

A. Administrator’s Decision to Hold Joint Hearing. The administrator may combine any public hearing on a project permit application with any hearing that may be held by another local, state, regional, federal, or other agency, on the proposed action, as long as:

1. The hearing is held within the city limits; and

2. The requirements of subsection C of this section are met.

B. Applicant’s Request for a Joint Hearing. The applicant may request that the public hearing on a permit application be combined as long as the joint hearing can be held within the time periods set forth in this chapter. In the alternative, the applicant may agree to a particular schedule if that additional time is needed in order to complete the hearings.

C. Prerequisite to Joint Public Hearing. A joint public hearing may be held with another local, state, regional, federal or other agency and the city, as long as:

1. The other agency is not expressly prohibited by statute from doing so;

2. Sufficient notice of the hearing is given to meet each of the agencies’ adopted notice requirements as set forth in statute, ordinance, or rule; and

3. The agency has received the necessary information about the proposed project from the applicant in enough time to hold its hearing at the same time as the local government hearing. (Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.070 Exemptions from project permit application processing.

A. Project Permit Application Processing. Whenever a permit or approval in the Sequim Municipal Code has been designated as a Type A-1, A-2, B, C-1, C-2 or C-3 permit, the procedures in this title shall be followed in project permit processing, except for exemptions specified in this section.

B. Legislative Actions. The following Type C-2 decisions are legislative, and are not subject to the procedures in this chapter:

1. City of Sequim comprehensive plan adoption and amendments;

2. Municipal code amendments (zoning code text, development regulations and zoning district amendments);

3. Areawide rezones to implement city policies contained within the city of Sequim comprehensive plan and any amendments thereto;

4. All other master land use and utility plans and amendments thereto.

The administrative procedures for the legislative decisions specified in this section are set forth coordinately by adopted ordinances. Nothing in this chapter or the permit processing procedures shall limit the authority of the city to make changes to the Sequim comprehensive plan, as part of an annual revision process, the city’s development regulations, or to undertake any other legislative actions.

C. SEPA Determination. SEPA determination is a Type A-2 action specifically excluded from the procedures set forth in this chapter, except for SMC 20.01.180. Procedures for SEPA determination shall follow Chapter 16.04 SMC, Environmental Policy, as amended, and SMC 20.01.180.

D. Exemptions. The following permits or approvals are specifically excluded from the procedures set forth in this title but must comply with any other statutory and regulatory requirements not found in this title:

1. Landmark designations;

2. Street vacations;

3. Annexations;

4. Capital improvement projects (CIPs) identified by city ordinance or resolution adopted after environmental review conducted in conjunction with the adoption or amendment of the city of Sequim comprehensive plan;

5. Judicially mandated actions; or

6. Procedural actions as defined in WAC 197-11-800(20).

E. Type A-1 Administrative Permits. Pursuant to RCW 36.70B.140(2), administrative permits Type A-1, categorically exempt from environmental review under SEPA (Chapter 43.21C RCW and Chapter 16.04 SMC as amended), or for which environmental review has been completed in connection with other project permits, are excluded from the following procedures as defined by this chapter:

1. Determination of completeness;

2. Notice of application;

3. Notice of decision. (Ord. 2024-027 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2024-013 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 2002-014; Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.080 Administrative approvals without notice (Type A-1) – Process overview.

A. Administrative Decision. The director will approve, approve with conditions, or deny (with or without prejudice) all Type A-1 permit applications within 30 calendar days after the date the determination of completeness was issued; provided, an applicant may agree in writing to extend the time in which the director issues a decision. The director may consider new evidence the applicant introduces with or after such a written request. The director may issue written findings and conclusions supporting Type A-1 decisions.

B. Notice of Decision. Notice of a decision regarding a Type A-1 process will be mailed to the applicant and applicant’s representative.

C. Appeal Procedure. The applicant may appeal the decision pursuant to SMC 20.01.240.

D. The director will approve, approve with conditions, or deny (with or without prejudice) all Type A-1 permit applications, categorically exempt from environmental review under SEPA (Chapter 43.21C RCW and Chapter 16.04 SMC as amended), or for which environmental review has been completed in connection with other project permits, within 30 calendar days after the date the application was submitted. Exception: Building and site construction permit decisions will be made within 120 calendar days of the date the application was submitted. An applicant may agree in writing to extend the time in which the director issues a decision. (Ord. 2024-027 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2024-013 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 2022-022 § 2 (Exh. B); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.090 Administrative approvals subject to notice (Type A-2) – Process overview.

A. Administrative Decision. The director will approve, approve with conditions, or deny (with or without prejudice) all Type A-2 permit applications, subject to the determination of completeness, the notice of application, the notice of decision and appeal requirements of this section.

B. Notice of Application. Within 14 business days after the date an application subject to a Type A-2 process was accepted as complete, the review authority will issue a public notice of the pending review consistent with the requirements of SMC 20.01.140. Upon issuance of the notice of application the city will provide the public notice of application for a project permit by ensuring posting of the property, mailing, and by publication in the city’s official newspaper as provided in SMC 20.01.140.

C. Additional Posting. The review authority may also require notices to be posted in conspicuous places visible on the site or in the vicinity of a proposed action at least 10 business days before the close of the comment period.

D. Staff Report. The director will issue written findings and conclusions supporting Type A-2 decisions.

E. Appeal Procedures. An applicant or other party of record who may be aggrieved by the administrative decision may appeal the decision to the hearing examiner in conformance with SMC 20.01.240.

F. Public Hearing on Appeal. If a Type A-2 decision is appealed, an open record public hearing will be held before the hearing examiner consistent with the requirements of SMC 20.01.200. (Ord. 2023-001 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2019-004 (Exh. B); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.100 Type B and Type C-1 and C-2 procedures – Process overview.

A. Determination of Completeness and Notice of Application. All Type B, C-1 and C-2 procedures require the issuance of determination of completeness and notice of application consistent with SMC 20.01.130 and 20.01.140 coordinately. Upon issuance of the notice of application the city shall provide the public notice of application for a project permit by ensuring posting of the property, mailing and by publication in the city’s official newspaper as provided in SMC 20.01.130.

B. Staff Report. At least seven days before a public hearing for all types of procedures, the administrator shall prepare a staff report on the proposed development or action summarizing the comments and recommendations of city departments, affected agencies and special districts, and evaluating the development’s consistency with the city’s development code as amended, adopted plans and regulations. The staff report shall include proposed findings, conclusions and recommendations for disposition of the development application. The staff report shall include and consider all written public comments on the application.

C. Recommendations. For quasi-judicial procedures, staff make recommendations to the hearing examiner. For legislative procedures, staff may make recommendations to the planning commission, which then may make its recommendations to the city council. Staff may also provide recommendations to the city council.

D. Required Findings. The planning commission or hearing examiner must recommend to approve a proposed project if it first makes the following findings and conclusions:

1. The project is consistent with the Sequim comprehensive plan and meets the requirements and intent of the Sequim Municipal Code;

2. The project is not detrimental to the public health, safety and welfare;

3. The project adequately mitigates impacts identified under Chapters 16.04, Environmental Policy, and 18.80 SMC, Environmentally Sensitive Areas Protection, as amended.

E. Public Hearing. A public hearing on quasi-judicial decisions shall be held for the purpose of taking testimony, hearing evidence, considering the facts germane to the proposal, and evaluating the proposal for consistency with the city’s development code, adopted plans and regulations.

F. Notice of Public Hearing. At least 10 working days before the date of the hearing for an application subject to Type B or Types C-1 and C-2 review, the review authority shall issue a public notice. Notice of the public hearing shall be in accordance with SMC 20.01.190.

G. Notice of Public Meeting or Workshop. Notice shall be given consistent with RCW 36.70A.035, Public participation – Notice provisions.

H. Neighborhood and Community Presentations. Project proponents are required to hold at least one neighborhood and community presentation, pursuant to RCW 36.70B.160(2). Project proponents conducting presentations under this subsection are not considered agents of the city. The purpose of this subsection is to:

Provide early and effective citizen participation in conjunction with the applicant’s proposal, giving the project proponent the opportunity to understand and try to mitigate any real and perceived impact their proposal may have on the neighborhood; and

Provide the citizens and property owners an adequate opportunity to learn about the proposal that may affect them and to work with project proponents to resolve concerns at an early stage of the application process.

1. This presentation is an informal gathering of people to obtain comments from the public on a proposed project permit prior to a decision.

2. Neighborhood and community presentations must be hosted by the project proponent at a time and location of their choice as long as it is reasonably foreseeable that affected residents would be able to attend.

3. The presentation’s agenda must include a conspicuous disclaimer that the proposed project discussed at the presentation may differ from the final proposal.

4. The neighborhood and community presentation should give a fair and accurate description of the project as currently proposed, and discuss a project’s uses, design elements and environmental impacts and/or proposed mitigations.

5. Project proponents must provide the city with a copy of the mailed notice with a mailing list of residents notified, a presentation attendance list, and an affidavit indicating that a summary of the presentation, including any concerns, issues, questions, and outcomes, was provided to each attendee.

6. Information obtained from the neighborhood presentation will not be considered, in whole or in part, as part of the official city record by the developer, attendees, or city decisionmakers.

7. Nothing in this section may be construed to vest a project application. A project proponent may submit a building permit or subdivision application at any time.

8. Any actions, errors, or omissions regarding this subsection H do not affect the validity or effect of the hearing examiner’s decision.

I. Quasi-Judicial Action. In accordance with state law and this chapter, the hearing examiner must hold an open record public hearing and make a decision on a recommendation, including any underlying appeals.

J. Quasi-Judicial Decisions. A quasi-judicial decision on a recommendation following an open record public hearing shall include one of the following actions:

1. Approve as recommended;

2. Approve with additional conditions;

3. Modify, with or without the applicant’s concurrence; provided, that the modifications do not:

a. Enlarge the area or scope of the project;

b. Increase the density or proposed building size; or

c. Significantly increase adverse environmental impacts as determined by the responsible official;

4. Deny without prejudice (reapplication or resubmittal is permitted);

5. Deny with prejudice (reapplication or resubmittal is not allowed for one year); or

6. Remand for further proceedings and/or evidentiary hearing in accordance with SMC 20.01.220. (Ord. 2022-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2019-004 (Exh. B); Ord. 2011-003 § 1 (Att. 1a); Ord. 2002-014; Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.110 Preapplication conference.

The purpose of a preapplication conference is to acquaint an applicant with the requirements of the Sequim Municipal Code and allow city department staff to provide the applicant with preliminary comments based upon the applicant’s preliminary sketch or conceptual design of a proposal.

Preapplication conferences are required to process all land use permit types unless the permit falls under an exception listed in subsection A of this section, or the director of community development waives the requirement. The director has sole discretion to waive the requirement, but will do so only after review of a written request from the applicant.

A. Exceptions From Preapplication Conference Requirement. Permits for single-family residences and other Type A-1 applications that are not subject to SEPA review are exempt from the preapplication conference requirement. Applicants submitting this type of permit application may, at their option, request a preapplication conference from the director of community development. Such requests must be in writing on the city’s request form and will be considered on a time-available basis by the director.

B. Applications for Type A-1 project permits subject to SEPA review, Type A-2, Type B, Type C-1, and Type C-2 actions will not be accepted by the director unless the applicant has scheduled and attended a preapplication conference.

C. Scheduling and Attendance. The preapplication conference will be held within 21 calendar days of the request, when possible. Any failure to meet this deadline does not make the city liable for damages. Preapplication conferences are not public meetings and are not typically open to the public. The community development director may limit attendance at such meetings.

D. Conceptual Design Review. The applicant must submit a completed preapplication conference request form and a preliminary sketch or conceptual design that illustrates the applicant’s generalized ideas of the proposal at least 21 calendar days before the preapplication conference. The sketch or conceptual design must include approximate lot lines and configurations, general site topography, proposed vehicle access to the site, and proposed location of utilities, along with any other information that may assist the city in its preliminary review. Final drawings are discouraged at this preapplication stage. The information included in the submitted materials should be of sufficient detail in order for the city to adequately review the proposed project and provide constructive feedback.

E. Information Provided to Applicant. At the preapplication conference or within 14 calendar days following the conference, the director will provide the applicant with:

1. A link to the land use application form listing the requirements for a completed application;

2. A general summary of the procedures to be used to process the application;

3. The references to the relevant code provisions or development standards that may apply for approval of the application;

4. Information on all applicable application fees in effect at the time.

F. Assurances Unavailable. It is impossible for the preapplication conference to be an exhaustive review of all potential issues. The discussions at the conference or the forms provided by the city to the applicant under this section do not bind, limit, or prohibit the city or any reviewing authority from applying all applicable laws and ordinances. No statements, discussions, or assurances made by city representatives will in any way relieve the applicant of the applicant’s duty to submit an application consistent with all relevant requirements of city, state, and federal codes, laws, regulations, and land use plans.

G. Consecutive Preapplication Conferences. An applicant may request another preapplication conference within one year after an initial preapplication conference. There is no additional fee for a second preapplication conference if the proposed development is substantially similar to the one reviewed or if it reflects changes based on information received at the first conference. A request for a second preapplication conference is subject to the same procedure as the request for the initial preapplication conference.

H. Fee. The applicant must pay the fee set forth in the fee ordinance for the preapplication conference (see Chapter 3.68 SMC, Rates and Fees).

I. Vesting. Preapplication conferences do not vest an application. (Ord. 2021-026 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.120 Permit application.

A. Application Forms. Applications for project permits must be submitted upon forms provided by the director.

B. Contents of the Application. An application consists of all materials required by the applicable development regulations, and must include the following general information:

1. A completed project permit application form, including SEPA checklist submitted pursuant to Chapter 16.04 SMC as amended when required;

2. A verified statement by the applicant that the property affected by the application is in the exclusive ownership of the applicant, or that the applicant has submitted the application with the written consent of all owners of the affected property. A photocopy of the property deeds must be provided;

3. A property and/or legal description of the site, as required by the applicable development regulations;

4. The applicable fee;

5. A site plan, showing the location of all proposed lots, points of access, and utilities, and identifying all easements, deeds, restrictions, or other encumbrances restricting the use of the property, if applicable;

6. For land use permits requiring a Type A-2, B, C-1, C-2 and C-3 decision, assessor’s maps and a list of tax parcels and their owners for all properties within 300 feet of the property and properties to which public notice must be sent as provided in SMC 20.01.190;

7. Any supplemental information or special studies identified by the director or project planner;

8. In addition to the requirements of this section, complete application requirements for the land use permits set forth in the Sequim Municipal Code.

C. Requirements Waived. The director may waive specific submittal requirements determined to be unnecessary for review of an application. In such event, the director must document the waiver in the project file or project log.

D. Payment for Permit. Review fees are due within two business days of initial application. Invoices for permits of any type must be paid within 90 calendar days of permit approval. If the invoice is not paid within 90 calendar days, the permit application will be deemed to have been voluntarily withdrawn. Withdrawn applications must be resubmitted as new applications requiring repayment of all applicable fees. If an unforeseen financial hardship will prevent the applicant from completing the payment, the applicant must submit a written request to the director requesting an extension of time in which to pay. The request for extension must be delivered by properly addressed U.S. mail or email, and received by the director before the payment due date. The applicant is responsible for confirming timely receipt by the director. The director has sole discretion on whether to grant an extension. Extensions will be no longer than 90 calendar days. (Ord. 2024-027 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2024-013 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.130 Submission and acceptance of application – City reviews for completeness – Determination of completeness – Additional information and project revisions.

Upon submission and acceptance of a permit application, the city will conduct the following reviews for completeness:

A. Review for Counter Complete Status.

1. Before accepting an application for technically complete status, the city will determine whether the application is counter complete.

2. The city will decide whether an application is counter complete when the application is accepted, typically “over the counter.”

3. An application is counter complete if the city finds that the application purports and appears to include the information required in the permit application, all required filing fees, and all information necessary to process the application as indicated by the city after a preapplication conference if one occurred (see SMC 17.12.015, 17.20.015, 17.22.030, 17.24.030, 17.28.020, 18.24.032, 18.30.030, 18.35.130, 18.88.070, or 20.01.110).

4. If the city decides the application is counter complete, then the application will be accepted for review for technically complete status. If it is determined the application is not counter complete, then the city will, within two business days, reject and return the application and identify in writing what is needed to make the application counter complete.

5. Review for counter complete status does not include an evaluation of the substantive adequacy of the information in the application.

B. Review for Technically Complete Status. Before accepting an application for processing, the city will determine whether the application is technically complete. A technically complete application contains all information required by the city. The review for technically complete status will include, at a minimum, review of the submitted application, drawings, studies, and any other materials requested by the city. The decision about the technically complete status of an application, including any required engineering, traffic, or other studies, will be based on the criteria for completeness and methodology set forth in the Sequim Municipal Code or in implementing measures adopted in a timely manner by the community development director, and will not be based on difference of opinion as to quality or accuracy. Generally, an application will be considered technically complete if it includes all the following:

1. A completed application form signed by the owner(s) of the property or by a representative authorized to do so.

2. All required information listed on the application form, and all information required per the relevant sections of the Sequim Municipal Code and/or identified as necessary in a preapplication conference, including the submitted drawings, required engineering documents, environmental documents, and/or other materials. The director may waive application requirements that are clearly not necessary with regard to a specific project and may modify application requirements based on the nature of the proposed application, development, site, or other factors.

3. A copy of any preapplication review summary letter the city prepared, or a preapplication waiver if one was approved.

4. If the city required the applicant to hold a neighborhood meeting, a copy of the attendance list and a summary of the comments received.

5. A current Clallam County assessor map(s) showing the subject property(ies) within a radius of 300 feet (including full parcels if partially within the 300-foot radius); a list of the names and addresses of owners of all properties within that radius, including owners of manufactured homes who lease property within that radius; and three sets of mailing labels with the names and addresses of all such persons.

C. Determination of Completeness. Within 28 calendar days after receiving a project permit application and conducting reviews for technical completeness, the city will give the applicant written notification that:

1. The application is complete; or

2. The application is incomplete, and identifying with specificity what is necessary to make the application complete.

D. Identification of Other Agencies with Jurisdiction. To the extent known by the city, other agencies with jurisdiction over the project permit application will be identified in the city’s determination of completeness required by subsection C of this section.

E. Incomplete Application Procedure.

1. If the applicant receives a determination from the city that an application is not complete or that additional information is required, the applicant will have 120 calendar days to submit the necessary information to the city. Within 14 calendar days after an applicant has submitted all requested additional information, the city will make the determination as described in subsection C of this section, and notify the applicant in the same manner.

2. If the applicant refuses in writing to submit additional information or does not submit all required information within the 120-day period and does not request an extension of time in accordance with subsection K of this section, the director will make a determination that the application has been abandoned and is therefore withdrawn, according to the procedures for a Type A-1 action as defined in SMC 20.01.040.

3. In those situations where the director has deemed an application withdrawn because the applicant has failed to submit the required information within the necessary time period, the applicant will forfeit the application fee.

F. City’s Failure to Provide a Determination of Completeness. A project permit application will be deemed complete under this section if the city does not provide a written determination to the applicant that the application is incomplete as provided in subsection E of this section. Despite any failure to provide a determination of completeness, the city may request additional information as provided in subsection I of this section.

G. Date of Acceptance of Application. When the project permit application is determined to be complete, the director will accept it and note the date of acceptance.

H. Project Planner. Upon issuance of a determination of completeness described in subsection C of this section, the director will assign a project planner to the project who will coordinate and be responsible for all phases of development application administration. The director may assign a different project planner at any stage during project review.

I. Additional Information. A project permit application is complete for the purposes of this section when it meets the submission requirements contained in SMC 20.01.120 and the submission requirements contained in the applicable development regulations. This determination of completeness will be made when the application is sufficient for continued processing even though additional information may be required or project modifications may be undertaken after submittal. The city’s determination of completeness does not preclude the city from requiring the applicant to provide additional information, correct plans, or perform studies at any time if new information is required for project review, or if there are substantial changes in the proposed action.

J. Effect of Project Permit Application Revisions – Substantial Revisions. If, in the judgment of the director, the applicant voluntarily or to conform with applicable standards and requirements causes the content of an application to be so substantially revised that such revised proposal constitutes a substantially different proposal than that originally submitted, the director will deem the revised proposal to be a new application.

1. In reaching a decision whether a revision is substantial, the director must consider the relative and absolute magnitude of the revision, the environmental sensitivity of the site, and changes in location of significant elements of the project and their relation to public facilities, surrounding lands and land uses, and the stage of review of the proposal.

2. Lesser revisions that would not constitute substantial revisions during early stages of review may be substantial during later stages due to the reduced time and opportunity remaining for interested parties to review and comment upon such changes.

3. Written notice of such determination of substantial revision must be provided to the applicant and all parties of record, including the reasons for the director’s decision.

4. The revised project application is subject to all laws, regulations, and standards in effect on the date of the determination of completeness of the substantial revision.

K. Requests for Extensions of Time. Applicants may request an extension of time to provide material required by the city during its review for technical completeness, including without limitation additional information, drawings, studies, or corrections to previously submitted material. Applicant’s request for an extension of time must be in writing. The director may grant, in writing, one extension of 30 calendar days if the required material warrants additional time. If the required material is not submitted by the date specified, the application lapses. Lapsed applications are deemed to have been voluntarily withdrawn. Withdrawn applications must be resubmitted as new applications requiring repayment of all applicable fees. Within 14 calendar days after an applicant has submitted the additional material identified as being necessary for a complete application, the director will notify the applicant whether the application is complete.

L. Refiling of Application.

1. If an application is withdrawn voluntarily or in accordance with subsection K of this section, the applicant may reapply by paying all fees and providing all documents required for a complete permit application. The applicant may submit any previously submitted plans, specifications, reports, drawings, and other required items if those previously submitted items continue to meet city regulations and standards or may be readily modified or updated to meet current regulations and standards.

2. Land use applications for a specific site will not be accepted if a similar permit has been denied on the site within the 12 months before submitting the application. The denial date is the date the decision was made on an appeal, if an appeal was filed, or the date of the original decision if no appeal was filed. This section does not apply if subsequent code changes adopted by the city would now allow the previously denied application.

3. The 12-month time period may be waived or modified if the director finds that special circumstances warrant earlier reapplication. The director will consider the following in determining whether an application for permit is similar to, or substantially the same as, a previously denied application:

a. An application will be deemed similar if the proposed use of the property is the same, or substantially the same, as that which was considered and disallowed in the earlier decision;

b. An application will be deemed similar if the proposed application form and site plan (i.e., building layout, lot configuration, dimensions) are the same, or substantially the same, as that which was considered and disallowed in the earlier decision; and

c. An application for a variance, exception, or waiver will be deemed similar if the special circumstances which the applicant alleges as a basis for the request are the same, or substantially the same, as those considered and rejected in the earlier decision. In every instance, the applicant bears the burden of proving that an application is not similar. (Ord. 2021-020 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.135 Time frames.

A. Maximum Permitted. Final decisions on all permits and reviews subject to the procedures of this chapter must occur within 30 calendar days for short plats, 90 calendar days for preliminary plats, or 120 days for other permits from the date an application is deemed technically complete, unless:

1. The application is exempted under SMC 20.01.070, state law, or the Sequim Municipal Code;

2. A hold is placed on the project due to a reason allowed under this chapter;

3. The application lapses for failure to meet any deadline for the submittal of supplemental or corrected information; or

4. The applicant consents to, or requests, an extension of such time period.

If a project application is subject to a substantial revision, the 90- or 120-day time period, as applicable, starts again after the revised project application is determined to be technically complete.

B. Exclusions from the 90- or 120-Day Time Limit. In determining the number of days that have elapsed since the applicant was notified that the application has been deemed technically complete, the following periods are excluded:

1. Any additional time required by the city to correct plans, perform studies, conduct an environmental impact statement after a determination of significance, provide additional information, or otherwise require the applicant to act. This period begins from the date the city notifies the applicant of the need for additional information until the date the city determines that the additional information satisfies the request for information or 14 calendar days after the date the additional information is provided to the city, whichever is earlier.

2. Any period during which the applicant is not current in payment of city permit review fees.

3. Any period when a project permit application requires an amendment to the comprehensive plan or development regulations, or requires approval of the siting of an essential public facility as provided in RCW 36.70A.200 and the Sequim Municipal Code.

4. Any period between the initial determination of technically complete application and determination of complete submittal of a substantial revision.

5. Any period during which a decision related to the proposed project is being appealed.

6. Any period mutually agreed upon by the applicant and the city. (Ord. 2021-020 § 1 (Exh. A))

20.01.140 Application review – Notice of application – Referrals.

A. Time of Issuance. Within 14 calendar days of issuing the determination of completeness, the director will issue a notice of application on all Type A-2, B, C-1, C-2 and C-3 project permit applications.

B. Contents. The notice of application must include:

1. The name of the applicant or applicant’s representative and the case file number for the application;

2. The date of application, the date of the determination of completeness for the application, and the date of the notice of application;

3. The street address location of the project or, if unavailable, the location in reference to roadway intersections;

4. A description of the proposed project action and a list of the project permits included in the application;

5. The identification of other permits required by other agencies with jurisdiction not included in the application, to the extent known by the city;

6. The identification of existing environmental documents that evaluate the proposed project and the location where the application and any studies can be reviewed;

7. The name of the city staff contact and telephone number;

8. A statement of the limits of the public comment period, which must be at least 14 calendar days following the date of notice of application or at least 30 calendar days if the application involves a shoreline master program permit, and statements of the right of any person to comment on the application, receive notice of and participate in any hearings, request a copy of the decision once made, and any appeal rights;

9. The date, time, place, and type of hearing, if applicable and scheduled before issuance of the notice of application;

10. A statement of the preliminary determination of consistency with applicable development regulations and the Sequim comprehensive plan, if one has been made at the time of notice, and of those development regulations that will be used for project mitigation and determination of consistency as provided in RCW 36.70B.040 and SMC 20.01.170;

11. Any other information determined appropriate by the city, such as the city’s pending SEPA threshold determination or a statement advising that a final environmental determination will be made following a comment period;

12. If a local government has made a determination of significance under Chapter 43.21C RCW concurrently with the notice of application, the notice of application must be combined with the determination of significance and scoping notice. Nothing in this section prevents a determination of significance and scoping notice from being issued before the notice of application;

13. A statement that the final decision on the application will be made within the certain time period established by this chapter.

C. Methods of Public Notice of Application. Upon issuance of the notice of application, the city will provide the public notice of application for a project permit by ensuring posting of the property, mailing, and/or by publication in the city’s official newspaper, as provided in this subsection and in SMC 20.01.190(C).

1. Posting. Posting of the property for site-specific proposals consists of one or more notice boards posted by the applicant or the applicant’s representative. A single notice board must be placed by the applicant at the midpoint of the site street frontage or as otherwise directed by the city for maximum visibility and where it is completely visible to pedestrians and vehicle traffic.

a. Additional notice boards may be required when:

i. The site does not abut a public road;

ii. A large site abuts more than one public road;

iii. The director determines that additional notice boards are necessary to provide adequate public notice; or

iv. The review authority may also require notices to be posted in conspicuous places visible on the site or in the vicinity of a proposed action at least 10 business days before the close of the comment period.

b. Notice boards must be:

i. Maintained in good condition by the applicant during the notice period;

ii. In place at least 30 calendar days before the date of predecision hearing; and

iii. Removed by the applicant within 15 calendar days after the end of the notice period.

An affidavit of posting must be submitted to the director by the applicant before the hearing or final comment date. If the affidavit is not filed as required, any scheduled hearing or date by which the public may comment on the application will be postponed in order to allow compliance with this notice requirement. Notice boards must be constructed and installed in accordance with specifications promulgated by staff.

2. Published Notice. The notice of application will be published in the city’s official newspaper of general circulation. Published notice must include at least the project’s street address or location, project description, type of permit(s) required, comment period dates, and location where the complete application may be reviewed.

3. Mailing (See Also SMC 20.01.190(C)). The notice of application must be mailed to:

a. The applicant and the applicant’s representative;

b. Owners of property, including owners of manufactured homes and condominium residential units, within a radius of 300 feet of the edge of the property that is the subject of the application;

i. The records of the Clallam County assessor will be used for determining the property owner of record;

ii. Failure of a property owner to receive notice does not invalidate the decision if the notice was sent; a certificate of mailing executed by the person who did the mailing will be conclusive evidence that notice was mailed to persons listed or referenced in the certificate; and

iii. If the applicant owns property adjoining or across a right-of-way or easement from the property that is subject of the application, then notice must also be mailed to owners of property within a 300-foot radius from the edge of the additional property owned by the applicant;

c. Other persons who request such notice in writing.

4. Referrals of Notice of Application. Notice of the filing of a preliminary plat application of a proposed subdivision located adjoining the city’s municipal boundaries will be given to the appropriate county officials.

5. Referrals to Department of Transportation (DOT). Notice of the filing of a preliminary plat application of a proposed subdivision located adjacent to the right-of-way of a state highway must be given to the Washington State Secretary of Transportation, who must respond within 15 calendar days of such notice.

6. Referral and Review of Development Permit Applications. Upon acceptance of a complete application, the director will transmit a copy of the application, or appropriate parts of the application, to each affected agency and city department for review and comment, including those agencies responsible for determining compliance with state and federal requirements. The affected agencies and city departments have 15 calendar days to comment. The director may grant an extension of time if needed.

7. Public Inspection Files. The department will maintain for public review a list of pending projects (public inspection files), including project status. However, the failure by the department to maintain and update the project status list is not grounds for invalidation of any permit decision.

D. Public Comment on the Notice of Application. A notice of application for shoreline substantial development permit must notify the public of the 30-day comment period. Comment periods on all other types of applications must be at least 20 calendar days. All public comments on the notice of application must be received in the department by 4:00 p.m. on the last day of the comment period. Comments may be mailed, emailed, or personally delivered. Comments should be as specific as possible. Public comments may be provided at any time up to and during the public hearing. However, the city cannot ensure that comments provided after the comment period on the notice of application will be considered and addressed in project review or in staff reports.

E. Hearing Is Required. If a predecision hearing is required, the notice of application must be issued at least 30 calendar days prior to the hearing. (Ord. 2023-001 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.150 Application review – Notice of application – Shoreline master program (SMP) permits.

A. Shoreline Master Program Permits. SMP permits require notice as provided in SMC 20.01.140 and additional mailing of the notice as provided herein.

B. Mailing. The notice of application shall be mailed to the latest recorded real property owners as shown by the records of the county assessor within at least 300 feet of the boundary of the property upon which the development is proposed.

C. Content of SMP Notice. Except as provided in subsection (D) of this section, the content of SMP notices shall be identical to the notice set forth in SMC 20.01.140.

D. SMP Comment Period. A notice of application for a shoreline substantial development permit shall notify the public of the 30-day comment period. (SMP notice is 10 days longer than the comment period for other permits as required by RCW 90.58.140.) (Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.160 Optional additional public notice.

A. Optional Public Notices. As optional methods of providing public notice of any project permits, the city may:

1. Notify the public or private groups with known interest in a certain proposal or in the type of proposal being considered;

2. Notify the news media;

3. Place notices in appropriate regional or neighborhood newspapers or trade journals;

4. Publish notice in agency newsletters or send notice to agency mailing lists, either general lists or lists for specific proposals or subject areas;

5. Mail to potentially affected property owners; and

6. Place notices on the Internet.

B. Failure to Provide Optional Public Notice. The city’s failure to provide the optional notice as described in this section shall not be grounds for invalidation of any permit decision. (Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.170 Application review – Scope of review.

A. Foundation of the Review. Fundamental land use planning choices made in adopted comprehensive and subarea plans and development regulations shall serve as the foundation for project review. The review of a proposed project’s consistency with applicable development regulations, or in the absence of applicable regulations the adopted Sequim comprehensive plan or subarea plan(s) shall incorporate the determinations in this section.

B. Project Consistency. During project review, the director or any subsequent reviewing body shall determine a proposed project’s consistency with development regulations adopted under Chapter 36.70A RCW (the GMA), or, in the absence of applicable development regulations, the appropriate elements of the Sequim comprehensive plan or subarea plan adopted under Chapter 36.70A RCW shall be determined by consideration of:

1. The type of land use, including uses that may be allowed under certain circumstances, such as planned unit developments and conditional and special uses, if the criteria for their approval have been satisfied;

2. The level of development, such as units per acre or other measures of density;

3. Infrastructure, including public facilities and services needed to serve the development, and availability and adequacy of public facilities identified in the Sequim comprehensive plan, if the plan or development regulations provide for funding of these facilities;

4. The character of the development, such as development standards.

During project review, the director shall not reexamine alternatives to or hear appeals on the items identified in subsection (B) of this section.

C. Consistency. For purposes of this section, the term “consistency” shall include all terms used in this chapter and Chapter 36.70A RCW to refer to performance in accordance with this chapter and Chapter 36.70A RCW, including but not limited to compliance, conformity, and consistency. Nothing in this section requires documentation, dictates procedures for considering consistency, or limits the director from asking more specific or related questions with respect to any of the four main categories listed in subsections (B)(1) through (4) of this section. (Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.180 Application review – Integrated SEPA review.

A. Environmental Review. Project review conducted pursuant to the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), Chapter 43.21C RCW, shall occur concurrently with project review set forth in this chapter. The SEPA review process, including all public comment procedures, is set forth in Chapter 16.04 SMC, Environmental Policy, as amended. Nothing contained in this chapter shall be construed to restrict the need for full environmental review in accordance with Chapters 16.04 and 18.80 SMC, as amended.

B. Public Comment Period on the Notice of Application and the Issuance of the SEPA Determination. Except for a determination of significance, the SEPA official may not issue its threshold determination, or issue a decision or a recommendation on a project permit until expiration of the public comment period on the notice of application.

C. Single Staff Report. If a SEPA threshold determination is not issued before a staff report and an open record predecision public hearing is not needed (Types A-1 and A-2), a determination of nonsignificance shall be issued with the single staff report on a project permit.

D. Predecision Hearing. If a predecision public hearing is required (Types B, C-1, C-2 and C-3), the threshold determination shall be issued at least 21 days prior to the open record predecision hearing and may be combined with the notice of the open record public hearing. If a predecision public hearing is required, an appeal of any determination of nonsignificance shall be submitted prior to and combined with the predecision open record public hearing.

E. Director’s Determination. The director may determine that the requirements for environmental analysis and mitigation measures in development regulations and other applicable laws provide adequate mitigation for some or all of the project’s specific probable significant adverse environmental impacts to which the requirements apply. In making this determination, the director shall:

1. Determine if the applicable regulations require measures that are sufficient to adequately address site-specific, probable significant adverse environmental impacts identified through project application review; and

2. Determine whether additional studies are required and/or whether the project permit application should be conditioned with additional mitigation measures.

F. Appeals. SEPA determination of nonsignificance may be appealed consistent with appeal requirements for SEPA determinations established in this chapter. Notice and appeal of a determination of significance shall follow Chapter 43.21C RCW and Chapter 197-11 WAC.

G. Nothing in this section limits the authority of the city to approve, condition, or deny a project as provided in its development regulations adopted under Chapter 36.70A RCW and in its policies and criteria adopted under RCW 43.21C.060, including project review under Chapter 16.04 SMC, Environmental Policy, and Chapter 18.80 SMC, Environmentally Sensitive Areas, as amended. (Ord. 2012-001 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.190 Notice of public hearing.

A. Mailed Notice. Mailed notice of the public hearing must be provided as follows:

1. No mailed public notice is required for Types A-1 and A-2 actions because no public hearing is held.

2. The notice of public hearing for Type B and Types C-1, C-2, and C-3 actions must be mailed to:

a. The applicant;

b. All adjacent property owners, including owners of manufactured homes and condominium residential units within 300 feet of any portion of the subject property. (Note: If the applicant owns another parcel or parcels of real property adjacent to the real property subject to development application, mailed notice must be given to owners of property located within 300 feet of such parcels);

c. Any person who submits written comments on an application.

B. Content of Notice of Public Hearing for All Types of Applications. The notice given of a public hearing required in this chapter must contain:

1. The name and address of the applicant or the applicant’s representative;

2. Description of the affected property, including the street address (if any) and either a vicinity location (including roadway intersections) or written description, other than a legal description, reasonably sufficient to inform the public of the location;

3. The date, time, and place of the hearing;

4. A description of the nature of the proposed use or development;

5. A statement that all interested persons may appear at the hearing and provide oral or written comments or testimony;

6. Where information may be examined, and when and how written comments addressing findings required for a decision by the hearing body may be submitted;

7. The name of the city staff contact or representative and the telephone number where additional information may be obtained;

8. That a copy of the application and staff report, and all documents and evidence relied upon by the applicant and applicable criteria are available for inspection at the department at no cost.

C. General Procedure for Mailed Notices.

1. The records of the Clallam County assessor’s office or an adjacent property ownership list prepared by a licensed title company must be used for determining the property owner(s) of record. The applicant is responsible for providing the list of property owner(s) of record to the department, as well as preaddressed, prestamped envelopes of suitable size for the department to mail out the notice. Addresses for a mailed notice required by this chapter must be obtained by the applicant from the county’s current Clallam County assessor’s property tax records.

2. The director or designee will issue a certificate affirming the mailing of notice to all persons entitled to notice under this chapter as determined by the list provided by the applicant.

3. The director may elect to provide notice to other persons than those required to receive notice under this chapter.

4. All public notices will be deemed to have been provided or received on the date the notice is deposited in the mail or personally delivered, whichever occurs first.

D. Procedure for Posted or Published Notice of Public Hearing.

1. Posted notice of the public hearing is required for all Type B and Type C-1, C-2, C-3 project permit applications. The posted notice must be posted as required by SMC 20.01.140 for notice of application.

2. Published notice is required for all procedures involving a public hearing. The published notice must be published in the city’s official newspaper.

E. Other Method of Providing Notice. An additional notice of the hearing may be given to adjacent property owners by any other reasonable method the city deems necessary.

F. Time and Cost of Notice of Public Hearing.

1. Notice of a public hearing must be mailed, posted, and first published not less than 10 nor more than 45 calendar days before the hearing date. Any posted notice must be removed by the applicant within 15 calendar days following the public hearing.

2. All costs associated with the public notice are borne by the applicant.

G. Optional Additional Notice. As optional methods of providing notice of public hearing, the city may notify the public or private groups with known interest in a certain proposal or in the type of proposal being considered.

H. Notice of Application. The notice of application is not a substitute for the required notice of a public hearing. (Ord. 2023-001 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.191 Notice of public meetings.

Public meetings of the planning commission, hearing examiner and city council must comply with applicable notice requirements of the Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 42.30 RCW, and, if applicable, notice must be given consistent with RCW 36.70A.035, Public participation – Notice provisions. (Ord. 2019-004 (Exh. B); Ord. 2002-014)

20.01.200 Procedures for public hearings.

Public hearings shall be conducted in accordance with the hearing body’s rules of procedure and shall serve to create or supplement an evidentiary record upon which the body will base its decision. Questions directed to the staff or the applicant shall be posed by the chair at its discretion. In cases where scientific standards and criteria affecting project approval are at issue, the chair shall allow orderly cross-examination of expert witnesses presenting reports and/or scientific date and opinions. The hearing body may address questions to any party who testifies at a public hearing. The chair shall open the public hearing and, in general, observe the following sequence of events:

A. Staff presentation, including submittal of any administrative reports. Members of the hearing body may ask questions of the staff.

B. Applicant presentation, including submittal of any materials. Members of the hearing body may ask questions of the applicant.

C. Testimony or comments by the public germane to the matter.

D. Rebuttal, response or clarifying statements by the staff and the applicant.

E. The evidentiary portion of the public hearing shall be closed and the hearing body shall deliberate on the matter before it. (Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.201 Procedures for public meetings.

The city council, planning commission, by majority vote, and hearing examiner may adopt the process for their respective public meetings. Generally a public meeting does not involve formal public comment. A public meeting is not a public hearing. The city council, planning commission and the hearing examiner may, but are not required to, provide for written comments or questions prior to a meeting to assist that body in its actions at its public meeting and may allow comments at a public meeting.

A. Recommendations from Planning Commission. The recommendation from the planning commission, after public meetings or workshops, on Type C-2 decisions will be the subject of a public hearing at the city council. (Ord. 2019-004 (Exh. B); Ord. 2002-014)

20.01.210 Reconsideration.

Requests for reconsideration are addressed in SMC 2.10.100. The request must comply with SMC 20.01.240. If the request is denied, the previous action becomes final. Reconsideration should be granted only when an obvious legal error has occurred or a material factual issue has been overlooked that would change the previous decision. (Ord. 2022-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.220 Remand.

If the hearing examiner determines that the public hearing record, the record on appeal, or the administrative decision is insufficient or otherwise flawed, the hearing examiner may remand the matter back to correct the deficiencies. The hearing examiner must specify the items or issues to be considered and the time frame for completing the additional work. (Ord. 2022-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2019-004 (Exh. B); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.230 Final decision.

A. Time. The final decision on a development proposal subject to Type A-2, B, C-1, C-2 or C-3 actions must be made within 120 days from the date of the determination of completeness. In determining the number of days that have elapsed after the determination of completeness, the following periods are excluded:

1. Any time needed to amend the Sequim comprehensive plan or development regulations.

2. Pursuant to SMC 20.01.130, any time required to correct plans, perform studies or provide additional information; provided, that within 14 days of receiving the requested additional information, the director will determine whether the information is adequate to resume the project review.

3. Pursuant to SMC 20.01.130, substantial project revision(s) made or requested by an applicant, in which case the 120 days will be calculated from the time that the city determines the revised application to be complete and issues a new determination of completeness in accordance with SMC 20.01.130.

4. All time required for the preparation and review of an environmental impact statement as provided in Chapter 16.04 SMC as amended. Additional time may be allowed, with the written concurrence of the applicant.

5. Any time needed to process an application for projects involving the siting of an essential public facility.

6. An extension of time mutually agreed upon by the city and the applicant in writing.

7. Any remand to the planning commission, hearing examiner or director.

B. Effective Date. The final decision of the hearing body is effective on the date stated in the decision, motion, resolution, or ordinance. For land use decisions, the decision is issued when the hearing examiner provides notice that the written decision is publicly available.

C. Notice of Decision. Upon issuance of the final decision, the department shall mail or hand-deliver a copy of the final decision to the applicant, any persons who have filed a written request for a copy of the decision, and to all persons who submitted substantive written comments on the application. The notice of decision shall include a statement of the threshold determination made under Chapter 16.04 SMC as amended and the procedures for an appeal (if any) of the permit decision or recommendation.

D. Notice of Delayed Decision. If the city is unable to issue its final decision within 120 days from the date of the determination of completeness, the city shall provide written notice of this fact to the applicant. The notice shall contain a statement of reasons consistent with subsection A of this section why the time limits have not been met and an estimated date for issuance of the final decision. (Ord. 2022-010 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2019-004 (Exh. B); Ord. 2000-006 § 3)

20.01.240 Appeals.

A. Appeals of Administrative Interpretations. Standalone administrative interpretations are appealed to the city council in their authority as the legislative body of the city of Sequim. Appeals of administrative interpretations that were made by the department in connection to a specific application or project are directed to the hearing examiner in accordance with Chapter 2.10 SMC.

B. Appeals of Department Decisions. The applicant or other party of record may appeal administrative decisions made by the department to the hearing examiner in accordance with Chapter 2.10 SMC. An appeal of a determination of significance must follow Chapter 43.21C RCW and Chapter 197-11 WAC.

C. Consolidated Public Hearing. All appeals of SEPA threshold determinations made pursuant to Chapter 16.04 SMC as amended (other than determinations of significance) are considered together with the decision on the project application in a single, consolidated public hearing.

D. Procedures for Appeals.

1. Appeals directed to the hearing examiner will be conducted as set forth in Chapter 2.10 SMC and the rules of procedure established by the hearing examiner.

2. Appeals directed to the city council in their capacity as a legislative body (SMC 20.01.030(C)) will be conducted as set forth in this chapter and the rules of procedure established by the city council.

E. Filing. Administrative appeals of a department action or decision must be filed within 21 calendar days of the decision or action becoming final. A written notice of appeal must be delivered to the city clerk’s office by regular mail or personal delivery by 4:00 p.m. on the last business day of the appeal period. The notice of appeal must include the correct appeal fee (see Chapter 3.68 SMC, Rates and Fees).

1. The contents of a notice of appeal to the hearing examiner must contain a concise statement identifying:

a. The decision being appealed;

b. The name and address of all appellants and their interests in the matter;

c. The specific reasons why the appellants believe the decision to be wrong (appellant bears this burden of proof); and

d. The requested relief (desired outcome or change to decision).

2. Notices of appeal to the city council if allowed by SMC 20.01.030(C) must be delivered to the city clerk’s office by mail or personal delivery by 4:00 p.m. on the last business day of the appeal period, and must contain the same information as required for an appeal to the hearing examiner in subsection (E)(1) of this section. The city clerk will arrange for a timely hearing before the city council.

3. Appeals of final decisions made by the hearing examiner or city council in their respective authorities must be filed with the Clallam County superior court or other hearing body with jurisdiction in accordance with applicable state and local court rules. See subsection G of this section, Judicial Appeal.

F. Hearing Examiner Decisions. Hearing examiner decisions must be in accordance with Chapter 2.10 SMC. The hearing examiner may also remand for further proceedings in accordance with SMC 20.01.220.

G. Judicial Appeal. Appeals to Clallam County superior court must be filed within 21 calendar days of the date the decision or action became final, as defined in SMC 20.01.230, unless another time period or hearing body is established by state law or local ordinance. All judicial appeals of land use decisions must conform with procedures set forth in Chapter 36.70C RCW. The costs of transcribing and preparing all records ordered certified by the court or desired by the appellant for such appeal are borne by the appellant as set forth in Chapter 2.10 SMC. (Ord. 2022-010 § 1 (Exh. A))