(a) Purpose
The purpose of a design enhancement exception is to permit a minor exception to zoning regulations when doing so will:
(1) Enhance the design of a proposed project without altering the function or use of the site, or its impact on surrounding properties; or
(2) Enable the preservation of the architectural style of existing improvements on the site.
(b) Applicability
(1) Design enhancement exceptions may be granted to the site development and parking and loading requirements otherwise applicable under this title (Zoning), as part of the architectural review process, when such exceptions will enhance the appearance and design of commercial and multiple-family development and other development subject to architectural review.
(2) Items for which design enhancement exceptions may be granted include, but are not limited to, dormers, eave lines, roof design, bay windows, cornices, parapets, columns^ ¦ arcades, fountains, art, ornamentation, atriums, balconies, trellises, moldings, balustrades, stairs, entry features, and other minor architectural elements and design features.
(3) Generally, design enhancement exceptions are limited to minor changes to the setback, daylight plane, height, lot coverage limitations, parking lot design and landscaping configuration, and additional flexibility in the required proportion between private and common open space.
(4) No design enhancement exception shall be granted under this section that would increase floor area, decrease the number of required parking spaces, decrease the amount of required on-site landscaping, or decrease the required open space.
(c) Findings
Neither the director, nor the city council on appeal, shall grant a design enhancement exception unless it is found that:
(1) There are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to the property or site improvements involved that do not apply generally to property in the same zone district;
(2) The granting of the application will enhance the appearance of the site or structure, or improve the neighborhood character of the project and preserve an existing or proposed architectural style, in a manner which would not otherwise be accomplished through strict application of the minimum requirements of this title (Zoning) and the architectural review findings set forth in Section 18.76.020(d); and
(3) The exception is related to a minor architectural feature or site improvement that will not be detrimental or injurious to property or improvements in the vicinity and will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, general welfare or convenience.
(d) Conditions
In granting design enhancement exceptions, reasonable conditions or restrictions may be imposed if appropriate or necessary to protect the public health, safety, general welfare, or convenience, and to secure the purposes of this title.
(e) Application Review and Action
Applications for a design enhancement exception shall be reviewed and acted upon as set forth in Section 18.77.070 (Architectural Review).