15.14.470 Utilities.
A. Policies.
1. Avoid placing utilities within shoreline jurisdiction unless absolutely necessary.
B. Regulations.
1. Design Considerations. Utility systems are permitted provided such systems:
a. Avoid paralleling the shoreline or follow a down-valley course near the channel, except where located in an existing road or easement footprint; and
b. Do not alter processes affecting the rate of channel migration, river hydrology or shoreline erosion.
2. Preference to Existing Footprints. Preference shall be given to utility systems contained within the footprint of an existing right-of-way or utility easement over new locations for utility systems.
3. Underwater Utilities. If an underwater location is necessary, the design, installation and operation shall minimize impacts to the waterway or the resident aquatic ecosystems. Seasonal work windows may be made a condition of approval. Standards of SPMC 15.14.380(B) (Dredging and Dredge Material Disposal); SPMC 15.14.290 (Ecological Protection and Critical Areas); SPMC 15.14.320 (Vegetation Conservation and Shoreline Buffers) (for any aquatic vegetation impacts); and SPMC 15.14.360 (General Aquatic Shoreline Modification and Use Regulations) must be met.
4. Nonwater-Oriented Processing and Production Facilities. Nonwater-oriented utility production and processing facilities, such as power plants and sewage treatment plants, or parts of those facilities that are non-water-oriented, shall not be allowed in shoreline areas unless it can be demonstrated that no other feasible option is available. [Ord. 580 Att. A § 5.13, 2019.]