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Except as provided in section 13.79.040 of this chapter, the following systems shall be installed underground:
A. New Systems: All new systems installed after the effective date hereof.
B. Upgraded Systems: All upgraded transmission systems which would increase the height of poles to more than sixty feet (60') above existing grade. (Ord. 2012-15, 9-20-2012)
The following systems are exempt from the provisions of section 13.79.030 of this chapter:
A. Existing Systems: Except as provided in subsection 13.79.030B of this chapter, this chapter does not require the burial of any existing aboveground systems, nor does it prohibit or restrict the repair, relocation, maintenance, or replacement of any existing systems.
B. Aboveground Installation Permitted: Aboveground installation of the following systems is permitted, subject to compliance with all other applicable statutes, ordinances, and regulations:
1. New service drops and/or distribution lines where service is available from existing aboveground systems;
2. Temporary systems required for construction projects not to exceed a period of twelve (12) months;
3. Streetlight poles, light rail overhead catenary, wireless telecommunications towers, and accessory equipment;
4. Transmission systems installed in the two (2) main north- south transmission corridors, as identified on the map entitled "main north-south electrical transmission corridors" on file with the planning division.
C. Variations And Exceptions: In cases where unusual topographical, aesthetic, or other exceptional conditions or circumstances exist such that the installation of a system would have minimal visual, health, or safety impact on the public, variations or exceptions to the requirements of this chapter may be approved by the city council or its designee; provided, that the variations and exceptions are consistent with the purposes of this chapter. (Ord. 2012-15, 9-20-2012)
Prior to beginning a project involving the installation or upgrading of four (4) or more poles, a utility/facility company providing electrical power for general consumption shall send written notification of the project to all abutting property owners and the director of public works. The purpose of such notification is to allow potentially affected property owners an opportunity to discuss with the company possible methods of providing and paying for undergrounding of proposed systems and provide the city the opportunity to meet with the company to discuss the project. Such notification shall be sent during the company's planning process to allow reasonable and sufficient time for such discussion to occur, but in no event less than sixty (60) days prior to the scheduled installation. Such notification shall include a full description of the project, including, but not limited to: a) the need for the project; b) location of the project; c) height, width, type and general location of poles; and d) amount of voltage. Failure of property owners to receive notice of the project shall in no way affect the validity of action taken. Failure to reach an agreement within the sixty (60) day period shall not be grounds for the delay of the project. Notification is not required for emergency projects. (Ord. 2015-02, 2-5-2015)
All underground systems to be installed in the right of way of any city road shall be made in accordance with the provisions of chapter 14.16, "Excavations", of this code. (Ord. 2012-15, 9-20-2012)