A. Steep Slopes And Potentially Hazardous Area: The provisions of this section shall apply to all development regardless of zoning designation where topographical slopes in excess of fifteen percent (15%) as exist as of the date of adoption hereof and/or when areas are identified as potentially hazardous by a licensed geologist, geological report, or inventory of hazards. If a conflict occurs between this chapter and other standards of this code, the more restrictive shall apply.
B. Review Required: All development of lands where the topographical slope exceeds fifteen percent (15%) shall be reviewed in accordance with the site plan review procedures set forth in section 17.02.200 of this title. For all such lands, the requirements of this section shall be met prior to city approval of any development activities, including, but not limited to:
1. Building permits;
2. Grading, including filling and excavation;
3. Removal of vegetative cover;
4. Placement of any temporary or permanent prefabricated structures;
5. Storage, temporary or permanent, of any materials;
6. Land use or development applications, such as subdivisions, planned unit developments, etc.;
7. Construction, reconstruction, or alterations to infrastructure, including on site sewage disposal systems;
8. Realignment, widening or extensions to existing public or private roads;
9. Construction of any new public or private street; and
10. Recreational activities and uses which may destroy vegetation or create soil erosion.
C. Exemptions: The following activities and uses are exempt from the provisions of this section:
1. Existing and ongoing agricultural activities;
2. Renovation or alterations to existing structures that do not involve removal of vegetation, grading, excavation, or the depositing of fill;
3. Maintenance and repair of existing streets and associated drainage systems provided the project does not extend outside previously disturbed areas;
4. Removal of invasive or noxious vegetation (as defined by the city or county);
5. Minimal disturbances for the purposes of site investigation required by local, state, or federal agencies, such as soil borings and test pits, provided disturbed areas are immediately restored upon completion of the work;
6. Uses or developments for which approval or a valid permit was obtained from the city prior to the adoption of this chapter; and
7. Emergency actions taken or authorized by a public agency to protect public health, safety or general welfare. (Ord. 2896, 2011: Ord. 2846 § 1, 2008)