HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-093 - Ord. Amending Mason County Code Title 17 and Title 8.52 ORDINANCE NUMBER 2022..-CAA
AMENDMENT TO MASON COUNTY CODE TITLE 17 Et TITLE 8.52
ORDINANCE amending several chapters of Mason County Code Title 17 — Zoning Code
clarifying existing code, reducing redundant code, and recommending new code language.
WHEREAS, under the authority of the Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA)
(RCW 36.70A) Mason County is taking legislative action to revise its development regulations;
and
WHEREAS, the zoning code had previously been revised in specific sections throughout the
years but not thoroughly reviewed in its entirety since the early 2000s; and
WHEREAS, the revision of Mason County Code Title 17 — Zoning Code necessitated minor
revisions to specific chapters of the Mason County Resource Ordinance Title 8.52; and
WHEREAS, the Mason County Planning Advisory Commission held three public workshops to
discuss the proposed amendment on the following dates: June 27, 2022, July 18, 2022, and
August 29, 2022; and
WHEREAS, on October 17, 2022 the Mason County Planning Advisory Commission held a
public hearing to consider the amendment and passed a motion to recommend approval of
said amendment; and
WHEREAS, the Commissioners considered the proposed amendment at a duly advertised
public hearing on December 20, 2022; and
WHEREAS,the Board of County Commissioners took public testimony from interested parties,
considered all the written and oral arguments, testimony and comments presented; and
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners also considered the Staff Report and
recommendations of the Mason County Planning Advisory Commission; and
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners finds that the proposed amendment to Title
17, Chapters 17.01 through 17.06, Chapters 17.10 through 17.15, and Chapters 17.20 through
17.35 and Title 8.52 Chapters 8.52.060, 8.52.061, 8.52.070, and 8.52.110 complies with all
applicable requirements of the Growth Management Act, the Comprehensive Plan, and the
Mason County Code, and that it is in the best public interest; and
BE IT HEREBY ORDAINED, the Mason County Board of Commissioners hereby approves and
ADOPTS amendments to the Mason County Code Title 17 and Title 8.52, as described in
Attachments A, B, C, and D.
DATED this 2041dayof QU-Mbe>(} 2022.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MASON COUNTY, WASHINGTON
ATTEST: �
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fflgL RQ � Kevin Shutty, air
McKenzie S ith, Clerk of the Board
APPROVED AS TO FORM: Sharon Trask, Commissioner
Tim Whitehea W DPA Ran 0NeatherIin,lommissioner
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ATTACHMENT A
Title 17 ‐ ZONING
Chapter 17.01 MASON COUNTY DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS—GENERAL PROVISIONS
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances
Page 1 of 81
Chapter 17.01 MASON COUNTY DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS—GENERAL
PROVISIONS
17.01.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to provide a framework for the development of land in Mason County; and to
assure that such development occurs in such a way that it protects private property rights and existing land uses
while also protecting natural resources, promoting economic growth and assuring the compatibility of proposed
land uses with existing ones.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.01.020 Short title.
This title shall be known as the "Mason County Development Regulations."
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Chapter 17.02 DEVELOPMENT AREAS DEFINED
17.02.010 General.
For the purpose of regulating development activity within Mason County, the county is divided into three
general types of development areas. These areas contain characteristics which have been identified in the Mason
County comprehensive plan as worthy of preservation and/or enhancement, and their designation in this chapter
is intended to promote orderly development in a manner which is consistent with that plan. The three area types,
and their subtypes, are as follows: urban growth areas, resource lands and rural lands.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.020 Urban growth areas.
Urban growth areas (UGA) are land areas identified as such in the comprehensive plan. These areas have
urban characteristics, but they currently lie outside of incorporated cities. In recognition of the availability of urban
services and the proximity to urban areas, these areas are designated to accommodate the majority of the growth
which is expected to occur within the county in the foreseeable future. The widest variety of uses and the highest
densities will be allowed in urban growth areas. Three UGA's exist within the county: Shelton UGA, Belfair UGA and
Allyn UGA.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Page 2 of 81
17.02.022 Shelton UGA.
The Shelton UGA has separate development regulations under Chapter 17.07 to assure compatibility with
the City of Shelton as these properties are annexed into the city.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 47‐09, Attach. B, 6‐2‐2009)
17.02.024 Belfair UGA.
The Belfair UGA is a "stand‐alone" area not affiliated with any incorporated city. Development regulations for
this area are intended to accommodate existing land use patterns and densities, while planning for future growth.
Belfair UGA has separate zoning and development regulations in sections MCC 17.20 through MCC 17.35.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
17.02.026 Allyn UGA.
The Allyn UGA is a "stand‐alone" area not affiliated with any incorporated city. Development regulations for
this area are intended to accommodate existing land use patterns and densities, while planning for future growth.
Allyn UGA has separate zoning and development regulations in sections MCC 17.10 through MCC 17.15.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.030 Resource lands.
The term "resource land" is used to cover a variety of land use types in areas which have value due to their
soil types, ground cover, or capacity for mineral extraction. Lands with intrinsic value due to aesthetic
considerations are also included in this category. Examples of resource areas are as follows: National parks,
National forests, long‐term commercial forests; mineral resource lands and agricultural resource lands.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.032 National parks.
Lands set aside as National Parks are identified due to their natural or cultural value.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.034 National forests.
National forests are lands owned and managed by the federal government. These lands serve important
functions as a resource for the supply of forestry products. In addition, these lands are recognized for their
ecological value as wildlife habitat and other uses. As with National Parks, these lands are unavailable for
development.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Page 3 of 81
17.02.036 Long‐term commercial forests; mineral resource lands.
These land designations are intended to recognize and protect unique resources that, due to the nature of
their operations, are sensitive to abutting land uses. This chapter sets forth regulations intended to minimize the
impact of intrusion of less compatible land uses upon these land use types. Development regulations for long‐term
commercial forest lands and mineral resource lands are located in MCC 8.52.060 and MCC 8.52.090 of the Mason
County Resource Ordinance.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.038 Agricultural resource lands.
This designation is intended to recognize and protect unique resources that, due to the nature of their
operations, are sensitive to abutting land uses. This chapter sets forth regulations intended to minimize the impact
of intrusion of less compatible land uses upon the resource use of the land. Development regulations for
agricultural resource lands are located in MCC 8.52.061 of the Mason County Resource Ordinance.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.040 Rural lands.
Rural land uses are divided into thirteen districts to reflect the diversity of existing development patterns in
the rural areas. There are five types of residential districts and four types of commercial districts. The business
districts are primarily intended to provide for the economic sustainability of existing commerce which provide
needed jobs, goods and services to the surrounding rural populations. The business districts, however, are limited
to small areas largely consisting of existing development. All development in the rural lands must be sustainable
without urban style public services.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.041 Rural residential.
There are five types of rural residential districts. These districts primarily provide for low density residential
use, but also provide for some rural uses such as hobby farms.
(1) Rural Residential 2.5 (RR 2.5). This district provides for new residential subdivision, which exceeds a
density of two and one‐half acres per residential lot, and where areas of small lot residential
development and subdivisions patterns were established before December 5, 1996.
(2) Rural Residential 5 (RR 5). This district provides for new residential subdivision on parcels of five acres
or more.
(3) Rural Residential 10 (RR 10). This district provides for new residential subdivision on parcels of ten
acres or more.
(4) Rural Residential 20 (RR 20). This district provides for new residential subdivision on parcels of twenty
acres or more.
(5) Rural Multi‐Family (RMF). This district provides fordesignates existing multi‐family residential
development including mobile home parks. New RMF zoning designations are prohibited.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Page 4 of 81
17.02.043 Rural commercial.
There are four types of rural commercial districts. These districts provide for a variety of commercial areas
reflecting the diversity of existing business areas. Parcels with this designation that are located within RACs,
hamlets, ICIAs, and other areas designated under RCW 36.70A.070(5)(d)(i) ("Dl LAMIRDs") shall be principally
designed to serve the existing and projected rural population. The county's primary method of such design is to
limit building size, and height, and floor to area ratios so that businesses of such size and intensity will ordinarily be
oriented towards primarily serving the existing and projected rural population. Isolated LAMIRDs ("D2 and D3
LAMIRDs") of a commercial nature are not required to be principally designed to serve the rural population. These
isolated commercial LAMIRDs, however, shall protect rural character, which is defined at RCW 36.70A.030(1423),
by containing and limiting rural development, by not being in conflict with surrounding uses and by assuring that
such development is visually compatible with the surrounding area. The county's primary method of achieving
such purpose is by providing for buffer yards, limiting the character of rezones, by limiting building size, and height,
and floor to area ratios in such a way as to be appropriate for the rural areas. Public services and facilities shall not
be provided so as to permit low intensity sprawl.
(1) Rural Commercial 1 (RC 1) (See Section 17.04.320)
(2) Rural Commercial 2 (RC 2) (See Section 17.04.330)
(3) Rural Commercial 3 (RC 3) (See Section 17.04.340)
(4) Rural Commercial 4 (RC 4) (See Section 17.04.350)
(5) Rural Commercial 5 (RC 5) (See Section 17.04.360)
(Ord. 126‐06 Attach. B (part), 2006: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.045 Rural industrial.
The rural industrial district provides for isolated areas of primarily existing industrial type uses. Rural
industrial is not required to be principally designed to serve the existing and projected rural population. However,
isolated LAMIRDs ("D2 and D3 LAMIRDs") of an industrial nature shall protect rural character, which is defined at
RCW 36.70A.030(1423), by containing and limiting rural development, by not being in conflict with surrounding
uses, and by assuring that such development is visually compatible with the surrounding area. The county's
primary method of achieving such purpose is by providing for buffer yards, limiting the character of rezones, by
limiting building size, and height, and floor to area ratios in such a way as to be appropriate for the rural areas.
Public services and facilities shall not be provided so as to permit low intensity sprawl.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.046 Rural natural resource.
The rural natural resource (RNR) district provides for isolated areas of resource based industry outside of the
designated resource lands.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.047 Rural tourist.
The rural tourism (RT) and rural tourist ‐ campground (RTC) districts provide small scale recreational and
tourist‐related activities in addition to tangential commercial services to tourists and adjacent rural populations.
Parcels with this designation that are located within RACs, hamlets, ICIAs, and other areas designated under RCW
Page 5 of 81
36.70A.070(5)(d)(i) ("D1 LAMIRDs") shall be principally designed to serve the existing and projected rural
population. The county's primary method of such design is to limit building size, and height, and floor to area ratios
so that businesses of such size and intensity will ordinarily be oriented towards primarily serving the existing and
projected rural population. Isolated LAMIRDs ("D2 and D3 LAMIRDs") of a tourist nature are not required to be
principally designed to serve the rural population. These isolated commercial LAMIRDs, however, shall protect
rural character, which is defined at RCW 36.70A.030(1423), by containing and limiting rural development, by not
being in conflict with surrounding uses and by assuring that such development is visually compatible with the
surrounding area. The county's primary method of achieving such purpose is by providing for buffer yards, limiting
the character of rezones, by limiting building size, and height, and floor to area ratios in such a way as to be
appropriate for the rural areas. Public services and facilities shall not be provided so as to permit low intensity
sprawl.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.048 Master planned resort.
The master planned resort district provides for self‐contained and fully integrated planned unit development
in a setting of significant natural amenity, with the primary focus on destination resort facilities consisting of short‐
term visitor accommodations associated with a range of developed on‐site indoor or outdoor recreational
facilities.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.049 Inholding lands.
Inholding lands are lands surrounded by long‐term commercial forests, but which are not suitable due to
parcel size or other constraint for that purpose. Inholding lands may be developed, but only in a manner which
assures the viability of the abutting forest land. Development regulations are located in MCC 8.52.070 of the
Mason County Resource Ordinance.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.060 Development areas map (zoning).
The location and boundaries of the development area districts (zoning) established by this title are
established as a series of GIS layers (“layers”) on the Mason County GIS (gis.masoncountywa.gov/mason). as
indicated on a series of maps entitled "Mason County Development Areas Maps Panel 1 of 10 through Panel 10 of
10," a copy of which shall be on file in the Mason County department of community development. These The
public web‐based GIS is maps are adopted as a part of this title insofar as it indicates such designations, locations
and boundaries of zoning districts, and shall be deemed to be part of this title.
The zoning designation on the development areas maps layers are deemed to be the original zoning
designation of those parcels based on their use as of July 1, 1990, and all subsequently approved rezones through
May 20 2008to the present. The boundaries and locations of all development areas within the county shall be as
shown on these layersthis map; however, where land use designations shown do not reflect the latest use
designations, then the latest use designations shall guide pending revision of the development areas layersmap. All
future rezones must meet the rezone criteria. Except to correct scrivener's errors, expansions of a zoned area may
only occur by rezone, where allowed by this chapter, and may not be allowed by boundary line adjustment or
other mechanism.
Page 6 of 81
Wherever possible, boundaries shown on the map layers are drawn along property lines, or along generally
recognized physical features. The administrator shall have sole authority to settle any dispute as to the actual
location of a development area boundary shown on the layermap, using the best information available.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 17‐09, 3‐3‐2009)
17.02.062 Uncertainty of boundaries.
When uncertainty exists as to the boundaries of areas as indicated on the development areas map, the
following rules shall apply:
(1) All water areas, waterways, alleys, roads, streets, highways, railroads, and other rights‐of‐way, if not
otherwise specifically designated, shall be deemed to be in the same development area district as the
property immediately abutting upon same;
(2) Where district boundaries are indicated as approximately following the centerlines of streets, alleys,
railroads or waterways, such lines shall be construed to be such boundaries;
(3) Where district boundaries are indicated as approximately following the lines of lots or other parcels of
record the lot line shall be deemed to be the district boundary;
(4) Any development area district boundary shown extended to or into any body of water bounding the
county shall be deemed to extend straight to the county boundary;
(5) Distances not specifically indicated on the map shall be determined by applying the scale of the map,
and scaled to the nearest foot;
(6) When two or more development areas divide a single parcel, development regulations including
density shall apply to the portions of the parcel as they are zoned.
(Ord. 35‐08 Attach. A, 2008; Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.02.064 Changes in boundaries.
(a) Any change in any boundary shown on the development areas map shall be made by adopting an amended
development areas map. The procedure for such an amendment is found in Section 17.05.079.
(b) No change in the boundary of any development area shall be approved unless such change is found to be in
compliance with the comprehensive plan.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Chapter 17.03 DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS
17.03.010 Permitted uses, generally.
It is the intent of this chapter to provide for the maximum amount of flexibility in the siting of differing types
of land uses. For this reason, the performance standards and buffer yard requirements found at Section 17.03.036
have been developed. However, both the comprehensive plan and this chapter recognize that some uses and
densities will create inherent conflicts with surrounding land uses, and with the intent of the comprehensive plan.
Thus, some uses are prohibited in some areas, and the intensity of some uses (such as residential, expressed in
Page 7 of 81
dwelling units per acre, and industrial, expressed in floor area ratio) are restricted in others. Many of the
requirements that apply to rural lands have been placed in Chapter 17.04.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.03.020 Matrix of permitted uses.
The intent of this section is to assist proponents and staff in determining whether a proposed land use is
consistent with the applicable policies of the comprehensive plan. Those policies were formed with the intention
to allow property owners and project proponents as much flexibility as possible in the use of their property, within
the constraints of the Growth Management Act. Therefore, the following matrix identifies the permitted uses in
the urban or resource land areas in Mason County; note that the public should consult the specific adopted urban
growth area plan for land use designation as permitted or prohibited. Permitted uses, as they apply to rural lands,
have been placed in Chapter 17.04. All uses not listed as permitted uses, accessory uses, or special permit uses in
the matrix or Chapter 17.04 are prohibited uses.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.03.021 Cottage industries.
Unless noted by an asterisk (*)listed in Figure 17.03.021, any use shown in Figure 17.03.020 is permitted,
subject to Department review, in any development area as a home‐based occupation, or as a cottage industry. The
activity shall comply with the criteria in RU‐524A, and shall be required to obtain a special use permit unless they it
compliesy with the following standards:
(1) On‐site pParking areas shall be accommodated for up to 10 vehicles for residents, customers and
employees only; any provision for additional parking shall require a special use permit;
(2) The outdoor storage of merchandise or materials is allowed if they are not visible to the public from off
the site;
(3) A cottage industry shall involve the owner or lessee of the property who shall reside within the
dwelling unit, and shall not employ on the premises more than five nonresidents. A temporary increase
in the number of employees is permitted to accommodate a business that is seasonal in nature.
However, not more than five additional persons shall be employed on a temporary basis (up to six
weeks) without a special use permit;
(4) More than one business may be allowed, in or on the same premises provided that all of the criteria
are met for all business combined;
(5) There shall be no alterations to the outside appearance of the buildings or premises that are not
consistent with the residential use of the property, or other visible evidence of the conduct of such
cottage industry, other than one sign no larger than twelve square feet.
(6) No equipment or process shall be used in such home occupations which creates noise, vibration, glare,
fumes, odors, or electrical interference detectable to the normal senses off the property;
(7) The cottage industry shall not create an increase of five percent or more in local traffic.
X=Permitted Use T=permitted only as tourist‐related use R=permitted only as resource based use S=special use
permit required *=not allowed as cottage industry U=consult the specific adopted urban growth area plan and
development regulations for land use designation as permitted or prohibited.
[PLEASE NOTE: Rural Land Uses are addressed in Chapter 17.04]
Page 8 of 81
MASON COUNTY
MATRIX OF PERMITTED USESUSES PROHIBITED AS COTTAGE INDUSTRIES
FIGURE 17.03.0210
Description ofProhibited
Cottage Industry Use
Accessory apartment or use
Adult retirement
community
Adult day care facility (less
than 8)
Adult day care facility
(greater than 8)
Agricultural buildings
Agricultural crops; orchards
Airport*
Ambulance service
Animal hospital
Aquaculture
Assisted living facility*
Auction house/barn (no
vehicle or livestock)
Automobile service
station*
Automobile wash*
Automobile, repair
Automobile, sales*
Bakery
Banks, savings and loan
assoc.*
Bed and breakfast
Bicycle paths, walking trails
Billiard hall and pool hall*
Blueprinting and
photostating
Boat yards*
Bowling alley*
Buy‐back recycling center*
Cabinet shops (see
Industry, light)
Carpenter shops (see
Industry, light)
Carport (accessory use)
Cemeteries*
Child day care,
commercial*
Child day care, family
Church
Non‐profit club or lodge,
private*
Commercial outdoor
recreation
Confectionery stores (see
Retail sales)
Contractor yards
Convenience store, 3,000 sf
or less
Cottage industries
Department stores (see
Retail sales)*
Distributing facilities (see
Industry, light)
Drug stores (see Personal
services)*
Dry cleaners (see Personal
services)*
Dwelling, multi‐family (4
family or less)*
Dwelling, multi‐family (5
family or greater)*
Dwelling, single‐family
Educational learning center
Electric/neon sign
assembly, servicing repair
Espresso stands
Fire stations*
Flea market
Food markets and grocery
stores*
Forestry
Freight terminal, truck*
Fuel storage tanks
(underground, >500 gal.)
(accessory use)
Fuel storage tanks
(underground, 500 gal. or
less) (accessory use)
Fuel storage tanks, above
ground (accessory use)
Furniture repair (see
Industry, light)
Garage, private (accessory
to dwelling)
Garage, public parking
Gravel extraction*
Greenhouses, private and
noncommercial
Group homes
Hardware stores 3,000 sf or
less
Hardware stores* more
than 3,000 sf*
Health club*
Heavy industry*
Home occupation
Horticultural nursery,
wholesale and retail
Hospitals*
Hotel*
Industry, light
Inn
Kennels
Libraries*
Liquor stores*
Livestock
Locksmiths
Logging
Lumber yards*
Machine shops, punch
press up to 5 tons (see
Industry, light)
Marina*
Medical‐dental clinic
Mining*
Mobile home park*
Mobile home sales*
Mortuaries*
Motel*
Motor vehicle impound
yards (see Section
17.03.105)*
Page 9 of 81
Non‐automotive, motor
vehicle and related
equipment sales, rental,
repair and service
Paint shop (see Industry,
light)*
Parcel service delivery (see
Industry, light)
Parking area, private
Parking area, public
Pasture
Pesticide application
service (see Industry, light)
Pet shop
Plumbing shop (see
Industry, light)
Plumbing supply yards (see
Industry, light)*
Post office, branch or
contract station
Post office, distribution
center or terminal*
Printing establishments
Professional offices
Public parks
Public utility offices
Public utility service yard*
Radio and TV repair shops
Radio and TV transmission
towers (incl. cellular phone
towers)*
Rail‐dependent uses*
Recreational vehicle park*
Recreational vehicle
repair*
Resource based industry
Restaurant*
Restaurants, drive‐
through*
Rifle range*
Sawmills
Schools, private,
elementary or secondary
Secondhand store
Self‐service storage facility*
Signs
Shoe stores or repair shop
Small engine repair
Special needs housing
Stable
Stationary store (see Retail
sales)
Studios (i.e., recording,
artist, dancing, etc.)
Taverns*
Theaters, enclosed*
Tool sales and rental
Tourist‐related uses
Trailer‐mix concrete plant*
(resource‐dependent use)
Upholstering
Video store (rental, not
adult) >3,000 sf*
Video store (rental, not
adult) 3,000 sf or less
Vocational school
Warehousing
Welding shops and sheets
metal shops
Wholesale
Wrecking/junk yards*
(Ord. 73‐07 Attach. B (part),
2007; Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B
(part), 2005; Ord. No. 134‐08,
12‐16‐2008)
17.03.022 Electric vehicle infrastructure.
A. Purpose. This section provides opportunities for electric vehicle infrastructure for all zoning districts in the
county. These regulations are intended to:
1. Provide adequate and convenient electric vehicle charging stations to serve the needs of the traveling
public;
2. Provide opportunities for Mason County residents to have safe and efficient personal electric vehicle
charging stations located at their place of residence; and
3. Provide the opportunity for commercial and industrial projects to supply electric vehicle charging
station services to their customers and employees.
B. Applicability.
1. Electric vehicle infrastructure is permitted, as follows:
a. Electric vehicle charging stations equipped with level 1 or level 2 charging equipment as an
accessory use in all zoning districts.
b. Rapid charging stations also known as level 3 charging in urban growth areas within village
commercial, tourist commercial, highway commercial, business park, public facility, planned
Page 10 of 81
development, festival retail, mixed use, general commercial, business industrial, low intensity
mixed use, commercial‐industrial, airport industrial, industrial, public institutional, zones.
c. Battery exchange stations in urban growth area industrial zones including: business industrial,
commercial‐industrial, airport industrial, and other industrial zones.
C. Definitions. For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:
Battery exchange station "Battery exchange station" means a fully automated facility that will enable an
electric vehicle with a swappable battery to enter a drive lane and exchange the
depleted battery with a fully charged battery through a fully automated process,
which meets or exceeds any standards, codes, and regulations set forth by Chapter
19.27 RCW and consistent with rules adopted under RCW 19.27.540.
Charging levels "Charging levels" means the standardized indicators of electric force, or voltage, at
which an electric vehicle's battery is recharged. The terms 1, 2, and 3 are the most
common electric vehicle charging levels, and include the following specifications.
• Level 1 is considered slow charging (120‐volt AC).
• Level 2 is considered medium charging (208‐ or 240‐volt AC).
• Level 3 is considered fast or rapid charging (480‐volt AC).
Electric vehicle "Electric vehicle" means any vehicle that operates, either partially or exclusively, on
electrical energy from the grid, or an off‐board source, that is stored on‐board for
locomotive purpose. "Electric vehicle" includes:
• battery electric vehicle;
• plug‐in hybrid electric vehicle;
• neighborhood electric vehicle; and
• medium‐speed electric vehicle.
Electric vehicle charging
station
"Electric vehicle charging station" means a public or private parking space that is
served by battery charging station equipment that has as its primary purpose the
transfer of electric energy (by conductive or inductive means) to a battery or other
energy storage device in an electric vehicle, consistent with RCW 46.08.185.
Rapid charging station "Rapid charging station" means an industrial grade electrical outlet that allows for
faster recharging of electric vehicle batteries through higher power levels and that
meets or exceeds any standards, codes, and regulations set forth by Chapter 19.28
RCW and consistent with rules adopted under RCW 19.27.540.
D. General Requirements. Installation of electric vehicle infrastructure must be consistent with the rules for
electric vehicle infrastructure requirements adopted by the State Building Code Council and the Department
of Labor and Industries for the installation of electric vehicle infrastructure. All wires and equipment that
convey electric current and any equipment to be operated by electric current must be consistent with the
standards in RCW 19.27.540 and 19.28.281.
E. Process.
1. An application to establish electric vehicle infrastructure must obtain an electrical permit through
Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.
2. Battery exchange stations that are an addition to an existing use require a site plan review process
consistent with Mason County Code Section 17.05.046.
Page 11 of 81
3. New battery exchange stations require a review process consistent with Mason County Code Section
8.48.050.
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. B, 3‐19‐2019)
17.03.024 Residential uses as special uses.
On any lot abutting a railroad track or airport, a special use permit shall be required for a residential use of
that property. A residential dwelling located more than one hundred fifty feet from such a facility shall be exempt
from this requirement, if the lot upon which the dwelling is to be placed is located within an urban growth area.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.03.025 Provisions for airports.
(a) Airports and heliports are a land use suitable for location within an urban growth area and are not allowed as
a cottage industry to another land use in the rural area.
(b) Airport overlay zones set out the standards for appropriate land uses and structure heights within that
overlay zone.
(c) Proposals to expand airport operation land uses or to develop new land uses in the airspace and approach
corridors shall be reviewed for compliance with subarea planning development standards and with the
policies of port comprehensive planning.
(d) Airplane landing strips and helistops used for commercial or industrial land uses may be allowed with a
special use permit in rural tourist and rural industrial zones, are allowed in the rural natural resources zone,
but are not otherwise allowed in the rural area.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.03.028 Essential public facilities.
Essential public facilities shall require a special use permit in any development area.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.03.029 Accessory dwelling unit requirements.
In rural lands, accessory dwelling units (ADU) must meet the following requirements:
(1) The ADU shall be subject to a special use permit, unless in the shoreline jurisdiction, it is subject to a
shoreline permit;
(2) In shoreline jurisdiction, the owner of the ADU must reside on the lot in either the principal residence
or ADU;
(3) The ADU shall be located on the lot of the principal residence or shall be a conversion of an existing
detached structure (i.e. garage);
(4) The ADU shall not exceed eighty percent of the area of the primary residence or one thousand two
hundred (1,200) square footage feet, whichever is smaller. An existing residence can be converted to
an ADU with the development of a new primary residence, the ADU shall be no more than eighty
Page 12 of 81
percent of the area of the primary residence and up to one thousand five hundred (1,500) square
feetof the habitable area of the primary residence or one thousand feet, whichever is smaller;
(5) All setback requirements must be met by the ADU;
(6) All applicable health district standards for water and sewer must be met by the ADU;
(7) No recreational vehicles shall be allowed as ADU;
(8) Only one ADU is allowed on any property;
(9) An additional off‐street parking space must be provided for the ADU.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. B, 1‐18‐2022)
17.03.030 Development requirements and performance standards.
The following development requirements and performance standards apply to all property proposed for
development, which is within the boundary of Mason County's Urban Growth Areas (UGA). No development
approval shall be given, and no building permit shall be issued, unless the proposed development complies with
the provisions of this chapter.
(1) New Lots.
(a) No new lots will be created within the boundaries of the Belfair, Shelton, and Allyn UGAs, which
employ individual or community/group on‐site sewage disposal systems except when the
following circumstances may apply:
(i) Use of on‐site sewer systems as a transitional strategy where there is a development
phasing plan in place (see WAC 365‐195‐330 [WAC 365‐196‐330]); or
(ii) To serve isolated pockets of urban land difficult to serve due to terrain, critical areas or
where the benefit of providing an urban level of service is cost‐prohibitive; or
(iii) Where on‐site systems are the best available technology for the circumstances and are
designed to serve urban densities
(b) All residential subdivisions created after the adoption of this chapter shall have a maximum
residential density of four units per gross acre in the R‐4 zone and five units per gross acre in the
R‐5 zone consistent with MCC 17.22.010 and MCC 17.22.060. The R‐10 zone shall have a
minimum density of ten units per net developable acre as described in 17.22.110.
(bc) Location of sewer lines will be prelocated and easements established in conformance with the
sewer analysis plan and as illustrated on the Belfair UGA Build‐Out Sewer Connection Map.
(2) Existing Lots of Record.
(a) No new development or redevelopment on existing lots of record in the Belfair, Shelton, and Allyn
UGAs shall be allowed using individual or community/group on‐site septic systems except that:
(i) New development or redevelopment using an existing (as of April 8, 2008) approved on‐site or
community/group system may be allowed provided that no expansion of the capacity of on‐site
system is needed to serve the redevelopment and provided that the public sewer system has not
been extended to within two hundred feet of the property line; and
(ii) New development or redevelopment of lots, within the Belfair, Shelton, and Allyn UGAs, existing
as of August 2, 2011, wherein sewer has not been extended to within two hundred feet of the
property line may seek approval for on‐site septic system when:
Page 13 of 81
(1) It complies with all requirements and specifications of the Mason County Department of
Community ServicesEnvironmental Health, and the Mason County Department of Utilities
and Waste Management, and
(2) A binding site plan is submitted which provides for future sewer pipelines and other
utilities in accordance with the Belfair UGA Build‐Out Sewer Connection Map, and
(3) Demonstrates that development at the minimum density allowed within the zone could be
achieved once public sewer and/or water would be available to serve the project site, and
(4) Development of the site shall be consistent with the approved site plan. The director may
allow minor modification to the site plan, provided that all other regulations and conditions
placed on the approval are met, and
(5) Reserved.
(6) Reserved.
(7) Payment of the Belfair sewer Capital Facilities Charge (CFC) in effect at the time of
commencement of utilization of the onsite septic system (s),
(i) Should sewer connections not become available within two hundred feet from
the property line over a period of ten years from initial installation of the septic
system, the customer is entitled to a refund of CFC.
(ii) The refund shall be calculated from date of installation and shall include the
original CFC charge plus interest calculated at two percent per year or based on
the consumer price index whichever is lower for the time period.
(iii) If the customer elects to receive the refund and sewer becomes available later,
the customer would pay the CFC in effect at the time sewer becomes available.
and
(8) Agreement to decommission the onsite septic system and connect to public sewer within
ninety days of the public sewer system extending to within two five hundred feet of the
subject property's nearest property line. The cost of any connection/extension required
will be borne by the property owners. The developer of an extension may collect
reasonable latecomer's fees for off‐site improvements.
(9) If a large onsite septic system (LOSS) is constructed in the Belfair UGA to serve
development prior to sewer becoming available, the county shall be designated as the
operator of the LOSS in order to establish a billing relationship with those served properties
and to enable components of the LOSS to be repurposed as a lift component for
connection to sewer.
(10) Subdivisions developed within the UGA but not served initially by sewer will install sewer
mains as an element of road and water system construction. Capital facilities charges shall
be waived for such a development until sewer is available within two hundred feet.
(b) All residential, industrial and commercial structures, currently using on‐site disposal systems, will
be required to connect to public sewers once a public system is extended to within two five
hundred feet of the closest property line regardless of the timing of the original on‐site
installation. The cost of any extension required will be borne by the property owners. The
developer of an extension may collect latecomer's fees for off‐site improvements.
(c) All existing permits for the installation of on‐site systems, which have been approved but have
not been installed, shall be declared void at such time the sewer is within two hundred feet of
the closest property line.
Page 14 of 81
(3) Existing Lot Consolidation or Boundary Adjustment. Within the Belfair, Shelton, and Allyn UGA,
consolidation of existing residential lots to form a single lot greater than eight thousand square feet
will not be allowed except to the extent that site conditions and site constraints impede the individual
development of the lots combined by the consolidation, in accordance with subsection (2) above.
(Ord. 59‐08 Attach. A (part), 2008: Ord. 45‐08 Attach. A (part), 2008: Ord. 30‐08 Attach. (part), 2008: Ord. 91‐07
(part), 2007: Ord. 10‐07 (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 16‐09, 3‐3‐2009; Ord. No. 55‐12, Att. A, 7‐10‐2012; Ord. No. 46‐17, 8‐1‐2017; Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐
19‐2019)
17.03.031 Binding site plan required in the Belfair UGA (Southern Connection—Long‐term
UGA Zone).Development requirements – connection to Group A public water
system required within UGA boundaries.
The following development requirements apply to all property proposed for development, which is within the
boundary of Mason County's Urban Growth Areas (UGA).
(a) No new individual or two‐party private water sources shall be established in areas where water is available
from an existing Group A public water system or within the service area of an existing Group A public water
system.
(b) Alternative water service shall be permitted on an interim basis, only if service from a Group A public water
system cannot be provided in a timely and reasonable manner.
(1) Interim water service from an existing Group B public water purveyor or the development of an individual
well may be allowed with the following findings:
(A) The applicant has submitted verification in writing of water availability from the water system
Group A or B purveyor, as well as a letter from the same purveyor that demonstrates to the
Community Development Department that receiving water from the purveyor at the time of
construction is unfeasible and thus cannot be provided in a timely and reasonable manner as
outlined by the process provided below:
(i) The purveyor states in writing that it is unable or unwilling to provide service, or within
120 days, the purveyor and applicant are unable to negotiate an agreement on the
schedule and terms providing service. The 120 day period commences at the first meeting
between the purveyor and the applicant. Written confirmation of an agreement between
the applicant and purveyor must be reached by the end of the 120 day period.
(ii) If the applicant is unable to acquire a response from the purveyor, a certified letter to
the purveyor requesting service shall serve as notice of the 120 day negotiation start date.
(B) The applicant has provided a certificate of future connection from the appropriate Group A water
purveyor that certifies that an irrevocable agreement has been entered into with the purveyor
providing that the property shall be connected to the purveyor's water system upon availability
of such water service and that the property owner shall pay all costs of connection. The applicant
agrees to decommission any well that is abandoned in the process of connection to a Group A
water system in conformance with applicable state law, WAC 173‐160. This certificate shall be
recorded in the real property records of Mason County and shall be a permanent condition on
the property running with the land until such time as the costs for connection are fully paid to
the purveyor.
Page 15 of 81
(a) Within the Southern Connection—Long‐term UGA Zone development may be allowed with the use of an on‐
site system when:
(1) Complies with the applicable health regulations and other Mason County building regulations; e.g.
critical areas, stormwater management, etc.
(2) A binding site plan is submitted which provides for future sewer pipelines and other utilities in
accordance with the Belfair UGA Build‐Out Sewer Connection Map.
(3) Demonstrates that development at the minimum density allowed within the zone could be achieved
once public sewer and/or water would be available to serve the project site.
(4) The development density does not exceed one unit/five acres.
(b) The binding site plan prepared under this section and reviewed and approved by the director, shall address
the following: buffers, landscaping, traffic access and parking standards, sewage disposal provisions, height
and scale in relation to surrounding uses and future uses, vegetation removal, stormwater, potable water,
and lot coverage.
(c) Development of the site shall be consistent with the approved site plan. The director may allow minor
modification to the site plan, provided that all other regulations and conditions placed on the approval are
met.
(Ord. 59‐08 Attach. A (part), 2008: Ord. 45‐08 Attach. A (part), 2008: Ord. 30‐08 Attach. (part), 2008: Ord. 91‐07
(part), 2007: Ord. 10‐07 (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 118‐08, 11‐4‐2008)
17.03.032 Development densities and dimensional requirements.
(a) Development Densities. Development densities for residential development are calculated as the allowed
number of dwelling units per acre (DU/ac). For nonresidential development, development densities are
calculated as the amount of building floor area allowed per gross acre of land, the "floor area ratio" (FAR).
For all development areas within the county, these development densities are shown in Figure 17.03.032 or
are included in Chapter 17.04 for rural lands and Chapter 8.52 for resource lands..
(b) This chapter regulates residential lot development through the use of standard residential density limits and
maximum residential density limits, as contained in Figure 17.03.032 and Chapter 17.04. The standard
residential density shall be applied as follows:
(1) On a lot existing at the time of the initial adoption of this chapter (June 17, 1998) and otherwise
suitable for residential use, the standard residential density limit is used to determine the allowed
number of dwelling units on the site. For example, in the Rural Residential 5 Zone the standard
residential density is one dwelling unit per five acres. Therefore, a lot of five acres would comply with
the standard residential density requirement for one dwelling;
(2) If the existing lot does not have an adequate area to comply with the applicable standard residential
density requirement, then one dwelling unit may be allowed. For example, in the rural activity centers
the standard residential density is one dwelling unit per two and one‐half acres. Therefore, if a lot was
less than two and one‐half acres, a dwelling unit may be allowed, provided that the lot could comply
with all other applicable standards and requirements;
(3) (A) Except through an approved subdivision or performance subdivision, pursuant to Mason County
Code Title 16, or through the provisions of subsection (b)(3)(B), (3)(C), or (3)(D) of this section, no
residential lot of less than the standard residential density may be created or reduced in size except
Page 16 of 81
through the provisions of subsection (b)(3)(C)(iv). The allowed residential density (allowed number of
dwelling units) of the entire original property is allocated to the lots created. For example, in the Rural
Residential 5 Zone, the standard residential density is one dwelling unit per five acres. Therefore, a
rural area property or parcel of twenty acres might be divided into three lots of two acres each and one
lot of fourteen acres, provided that the fourteen‐acre lot would have the right to only one dwelling,
and could not be further subdivided for residential purposes;
(B) If a lot has more than one, but not more than four existing residential dwellings, then the e
administrator may approve the division of the lot in a manner that establishes each dwelling on a
separate lot. Provided that:
(i) Any new lot created by this method shall be considered a conforming lot,
(ii) The provisions of this section shall apply only to lots and dwellings that were legally created
and built,
(iii) The provisions of this section shall not apply to dwellings that were permitted as accessory
dwellings or temporary dwellings,
(iv) In approving such a subdivision of land, the director shall make the following
determinations:
a. Each dwelling shall have access by frontage or easement to a public way,
b. Each dwelling shall be connected to a septic system or sewer line adequate to
serve the dwelling,
c. Each dwelling shall be served by a sufficient supply of potable water, and
d. The division of land shall occur in a manner that minimizes any nonconformity
related to minimum lot size or setback requirement;
(C) Boundary Line Adjustments.
(i) Boundary line adjustments to existing lots in rural residential districts may reduce the size
of a lot that is already nonconforming as to density provided that the lot is not reduced
below the minimum lot size of two acres;
(ii) Boundary line adjustments in rural residential districts for existing lots under two acres may
reduce the size of the existing nonconforming lot, provided that:
a. The adjustment is solely for the purpose of resolving issues of encroachments
by buildings or other improvements; the administrator finds sufficient evidence
of the encroachment and the proposed adjustment is the minimum necessary
to resolve the issue, or a court must order the change; and the resulting lot has
a sufficient area and dimension to meet minimum requirements for width and
area for a building site and comply with all setback, buffer, and open space
requirements to accommodate a residence, driveway, parking, and, where
required, a well, stormwater system, and septic system and reserve area, or
b. The new boundary recognizes a logical physical boundary or condition; the net
reduction does not exceed twenty percent of the area of the lot; and the
resulting lot has a sufficient area and dimension to meet minimum
requirements for width and area for a building site, exclusive of all setback,
buffer, and open space requirements, to accommodate a residence, driveway,
parking, and, where required, a well, stormwater system, and septic system
and reserve area;
Page 17 of 81
(iii) Boundary line adjustments in rural residential districts may reduce the size of a lot
currently two acres or larger to below the minimum lot size of two acres, provided that: the
adjustment is solely for the purpose of resolving issues of encroachments by buildings or
other improvements; the administrator finds sufficient evidence of the encroachment and
the proposed adjustment is the minimum necessary to resolve the issue, or a court must
order the change; and the resulting lot has a sufficient area and dimension to meet
minimum requirements for width and area for a building site, exclusive of all setback,
buffer, and open space requirements, to accommodate a residence, driveway, parking,
and, where required, a well, stormwater system, and septic system and reserve area;
(iv) Boundary line adjustments in the Rural Residential 5, 10, and 20 districts may reduce the
size of a lot to below the development density standard (5, 10, or 20 acres), provided that
development density is not increased. For, example, in a Rural Residential 5 zone, a BLA
between a 5 acre lot and a 7 acre lot cannot create a two‐acre lot (minimum allowed lot
size) and a 10 acre lot as the 10 acre lot would appear to have additional density;: the
adjustment is solely for the purpose of resolving issues of encroachments by buildings or
other improvements; the administrator finds sufficient evidence of the encroachment and
the proposed adjustment is the minimum necessary to resolve the issue, or a court must
order the change; and the resulting lot has a sufficient area and dimension to meet
minimum requirements for width and area for a building site, exclusive of all setback,
buffer, and open space requirements, to accommodate a residence, driveway, parking,
and, where required, a well, stormwater system, and septic system and reserve area;
(v) The administrator may allow expansion of existing lots through boundary line adjustments
into adjoining land use districts without requiring compliance with lot size or density
requirements of the adjoining district, provided that the adjustment is solely for the
purpose of resolving issues of encroachments by buildings or other improvements. In order
to approve the adjustment, the administrator must find sufficient evidence of the
encroachment and the proposed adjustment is the minimum necessary to resolve the
issue, or a court must have ordered the claim. The administrator shall keep a docket of
such approvals for consideration as map amendments at the next annual review;
(vi) When land is transferred from an existing lot that does not meet the density requirement
to another lot under this provision, no rights to increase density are transferred with the
land;
(vii) Where one or more property owner(s) own two or more adjacent lots which are all
deemed buildable by Mason County, and of which at least one is conforming in size, Mason
County may approve a boundary line adjustment that results in the same number of
conforming lots and does not create any lot less than the size of any original
nonconforming lot;
(D) When property is acquired in fee ownership by the public for public purposes by condemnation
or other means:
(i) No existing lot shall be reduced in dimension or area such that it does not have
an adequate area, exclusive of all setback, buffer, and open space
requirements, to accommodate a residence (or other building where residential
use is prohibited), driveway, parking, and, where required, a well, stormwater
system, and septic system and reserve area;
(ii) No rural residential district lot shall be divided in such a manner that the total
number of residential units allowed after the acquisition would be greater than
the total number of residential units allowed prior to the acquisition, but
outlots may be created; and
Page 18 of 81
(iii) Acquisition of an easement for road right‐of‐way does not divide the property.
(4) Title 16, Mason County Code, regulates land divisions in Mason County and establishes a review
process by which all applicable regulations can be addressed. The allowable size and configuration of
any given lot in a land division is determined through this process. Issues to be considered in
establishing a minimum size for any particular lot shall include adequate provisions for buffer yards
and, as setbacks as set forth in Section 17.03.036 or setbacks in Chapter 17.04.
(5) Redesigning an undeveloped plat or groups of contiguous lots:
(A) Defining the Number of Lots Involved. In existing (as of June 17, 1998) contiguous lots in rural
areas that are principally undeveloped, owner(s) may plat or re‐plat the contiguous lots and may
preserve some of the allowed density of the nonconforming existing lots as follows:
(i) For the nonconforming lots, one lot for every four existing lots, or one lot per two and one‐
half acres, whichever is the greater number of lots; provided that existing lots greater than
two and one‐half acres shall not count for more than one lot in the proposed plat or re‐
plat;
(ii) For conforming lots that are included in the plat or groups of contiguous lots, the acreage
of those lots is as determined by the density allowed in the designated zone. Areas
proposed to be dedicated for public roads are to be included in the two and one‐half acres
per lot standard for determination of the number of lots allowed in the re‐plat of lot layout.
(B) Criteria for Proposed Lot Design for Lots Less Than Two Acres in Size. The layout of lots that are
less than two acres in size set forth in subsection (b)(5)(A) of this section should use the following
standards:
(i) Designation of Primary Conservation Areas (When Present). Primary conservation areas, as
defined in M.C.C. Title 16, Plats and Subdivisions, shall be clearly identified, and shall be set
aside as permanent open space. Primary conservation areas shall be included in the
calculation of both standard and maximum density allowed, but they shall not be used in
calculating the percentage of permanent open space required;
(ii) Designation of Secondary Conservation Areas (When Present). Secondary conservation
areas, as defined in M.C.C. Title 16, Plats and Subdivisions, shall be identified and shall, to
the greatest extent possible, be avoided as development areas. At least ten percent of the
buildable area of the property be set aside as permanent open space. Buildable area
excludes primary conservation areas, but includes secondary conservation areas;
(iii) When applicable, the design of an open space area should address the following:
a. Interconnection with designated open space on abutting properties,
b. The preservation of important site features, such as rare or unusual stands of
trees, unique geological features, or important wildlife habitat,
c. Direct access from as many lots as possible within the development,
d. Minimizing the fragmentation of the open space areas. To the greatest extent
possible, the designated open space should be located in large, undivided
areas, and
e. A curvilinear roadway design which minimizes the visual impact of houses as
may be seen from the exterior of the site;
(iv) When applicable, the design of the proposal should avoid the following:
a. The interruption of scenic views and vistas,
Page 19 of 81
b. Construction on hill tops or ridge lines,
c. Direct lot access or frontage on existing public ways,
d. A "linear" configuration of open space (except when following a linear site
feature, such as a river, creek or stream);
(v) Lots intended for residential use of less than twenty thousand square feet area are not
allowed; and
(vi) Residential lots shall be grouped into clusters of two to eight lots with an open space
separation of at least one hundred feet between clusters.
(C) Transfer of Density Derived from this Review. Upon analysis of all of the opportunities and
constraints identified on a specific group of parcels of land, if it is determined that the use of the
provisions set forth in this chapter will not result in the use of the maximum density allowed,
then the applicant shall have the right to transfer any unused development density to any parcel
of land located in an urban growth area. By use of this transfer right, maximum density allowed
in the urban growth area may be exceeded by up to fifty percent.
(c) Dimensional Requirements. Dimensional requirements include setbacks, building height restrictions, and
maximum allowed lot coverage. These requirements for each development area are set forth in Figure
17.03.032; consult the specific adopted urban growth area plan for density and dimensional requirements
for the applicable zone designation.
Maximum height restrictions shall not apply to storage silos, antennas, transmission towers, water tanks on
lands in all zones and on resource lands; and shall not apply to incineration facilities, boilers, electrical or
generating plants, or industrial facilities on lands zoned as industrial areas.
Figure 17.03.032 Development Densities; Dimensional Requirements
Description of Use Standard
Residential
Density
Maximum
Residential
Density
Standard
Non‐
Residential
Density***
(Floor Area
Ratio)
Maximum
Building
Size
Maximum
Building
Height
Setback
Requirements
Shelton Urban
Growth Area (U)
4 du/ac 8 du/ac 1:1.5 n/a 35′ **
Belfair Urban
Growth Area (U)
4 du/ac 6 du/ac 1:1.5 n/a 35′ **
Allyn Urban Growth
Area (U)
4 du/ac 6 du/ac 1:2 10,000 sf
(2)
35′ (1) **
Mineral Resource
Areas (x)
1 du/40 ac 1 du/40 ac n/a n/a 35′* **
Agricultural
Resource Lands (x)
(a) (a) 1:20 n/a 35′* **
In‐Holding Lands 1 du/5 ac 1 du/5 ac 1:20 10,000 sf 35′* **
U = consult the specific adopted urban growth area plan and development regulations for density and dimensional
requirements for the applicable zone designation.
FOR DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS IN RURAL AREA, SEE CHAPTER 1.04
Page 20 of 81
* ;hg;resource‐based activities are exempt from this requirement
** ;hg;see buffer yard standards
*** ;hg;fire stations exempt from this requirement
(1) ;hg;except that the maximum building height in the Allyn UGA is 25 feet East of State Highway 3 between Wade Street and Evans
Street (which is known as Lakeland Drive)
(2) ;hg;may be increased to 20,000 sf with a Special Use Permit
(x) ;hg;clustering of residential development is required
(a) ;hg;see the density provisions of Section 17.03.037
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005)
17.03.033 Performance‐based density bonuses.
Where they are greater than the standard residential densities, the "Maximum Residential Densities" shown
in Figure 17.03.032 and in Chapter 17.04 may be achieved only through the use of the performance standards set
forth in this chapter and in Title 16, or through the provisions contained in Section 17.03.037 of this chapter. These
standards are designed and intended to encourage the preservation of the character of the land surrounding the
proposed land use. The achievement of these bonuses will, in most cases, require an analysis of the land to
document existing conditions, opportunities and constraints. Use of this information will assist in determining the
most appropriate development pattern for each individual site.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.03.034 Classification of land uses established.
In order to determine the compatibility of differing land uses, and to minimize the impacts that development
may have on abutting property, all land uses permitted in Mason County are classified into six categories. Those
categories are illustrated in Figure 17.03.034.
Figure 17.03.034
CLASSIFICATION OF LAND USES
Category I
Open Space
‐ Passive recreation areas
‐ Walking or hiking trails
‐ Cemeteries
Residential, Type I
‐ Detached, single‐family dwelling; 1 du/20 ac. or greater
‐ Accessory apartment
‐ Home occupation
‐ Child day care, family
Agriculture, Type I
‐ Crops
Page 21 of 81
‐ Orchards
‐ Vineyards
‐ Pasture
‐ Farm stands
‐ Greenhouses, no sales to the public
Category II
Residential, Type II
‐ Detached, single‐family dwelling; 1 du/ac. to 1 du/20 ac.
‐ Two to four‐family dwelling; 1 du/ac. or greater
Public Institutional
‐ Schools
‐ Churches
‐ Libraries
‐ Post Offices
Recreation
‐ Parks
‐ Active recreation areas
‐ Bicycle/equestrian trails
Group Care Facilities, Type I
‐ Adult‐day care facility
‐ Child day care, commercial
‐ Group homes
Lodging, Type I
‐ Campgrounds
‐ RV parks
‐ Bed and Breakfast, 12 or fewer guest rooms
‐ Vacant land
Category III
Residential, Type III
‐ Attached or detached single‐family dwellings, more than 1 du/ac
‐ Multi‐family dwellings
‐ Mobile home parks
Group Care Facilities, Type II
‐ Adult retirement communities
‐ Assisted living facilities
Page 22 of 81
Category IV
Lodging, Type II
‐ Bed and Breakfast
‐ Motel
‐ Boarding House
‐ Hotel
Commercial, Type I
(hours of operation limited to 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.)
‐ Professional offices
‐ Retail, less than 10,000 s.f.
‐ Medical clinics
‐ Banks
Agriculture, Type II
‐ Greenhouses
‐ Nursery yards
‐ Livestock
‐ Kennels
‐ Parking Areas, Lots
‐ Cottage Industries
Category V
Commercial, Type II
‐ Retail, general
‐ Hospitals
‐ Animal clinics
‐ Automobile service station
‐ Vehicle sales
‐ Vehicle repairs
‐ Auction house
‐ Contractor yards
‐ Home and garden centers
‐ Health clubs
‐ Wholesale
‐ Boat yards/marinas
‐ Mobile home sales
Industrial, Type I
Page 23 of 81
‐ Warehouse, distribution
‐ Light Industry
‐ Wholesale
Category VI
Industrial, Type II
‐ Heavy industry
‐ Mining, extraction
‐ Airport
Agriculture, Type III
‐ Forestry
‐ Logging
Rifle range
‐ Wrecking/junk yard
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005)
17.03.035 Land divisions in resource lands.
(a) Cluster development, as provided in Chapter 16.23, Mason County Code, is requiredmay be allowed for all
residential subdivisions or short plats located in the following development areas: agricultural resource
lands, long‐term commercial forests and mineral resource areas.
(1) No lot for which the construction of a residential dwelling is proposed under this section and Chapter
16.23, Mason County Code, shall exceed two acres in gross land.
(2) In agricultural resource lands, no open space lot shall be less than ten acres, as defined in Section
16.23.035, Mason County Code.
(b) Land divisions for purposes other than residential development shall have a minimum lot size of ten acres for
agricultural resource land; provided, however, that lots created for and restricted to the use of fire stations
or for utilities are not required to meet the minimum lot sizes defined in this section.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.03.036 Buffer and landscape requirements.
As a method for allowing the placement of differing land uses adjacent to one another, buffer yards shall be
required. These requirements do not apply to: (a) urban growth areas, where the public should consult the specific
adopted urban growth area plan for density and dimensional requirements for the applicable zone designation;
and (b) rural lands, where the standards included in Chapter 17.04 shall be applied. Subsection (f) of this section,
the additional requirement for land adjacent to agricultural resource lands, continues to apply to rural lands. The
location, size and type of buffer yard shall be determined by comparing the category of the proposed land use with
the categories of all abutting land uses, in accordance with Figure 17.03.036. Buffer yard requirements are stated
in terms of the number of plant units required per one hundred linear feet of buffer yard. Any land set aside as a
buffer yard may be used in calculating the development density of a parcel of land.
Page 24 of 81
(1) It is the intent of this section that the establishment of any buffer yard pursuant to the criteria set forth
in this chapter will result in full compliance with the standards for maximum environmental noise levels
as set forth in WAC 173‐60. Buffer yards exceeding the minimum requirements of this section may be
required in the event that maximum environmental noise level requirements are not met. It shall be
the sole responsibility of the owner of the property upon which the buffer yard is established to assure
compliance with these state‐established noise levels.
(2) Determination of Buffer Yard Requirements. To determine the type of buffer yard required between
two adjacent parcels, or between a parcel and a street, the following procedure shall be followed:
(A) Identify the land use category of the proposed use by referring to Figure 17.03.034;
(B) Identify the uses of all adjacent properties by on‐site survey;
(C) Identify the land use categories of all adjacent parcels by referring to Figure 17.03.034;
(D) Determine the buffer yard required on each boundary (or boundary segment) by referring to
Figure 17.03.036.
(3) Responsibility for Buffer Yard.
(A) When a use is the first use to develop on one of two adjacent, vacant parcels, the first use shall
provide the buffer which Figure 17.03.034 requires next to vacant land. The second use to
develop shall, at the time of its development, provide all additional plant material and/or land
necessary to provide the total buffer yard required between those two uses.
(B) When an existing use changes to a higher intensity use as determined by Figure 17.03.034, all of
the buffer yard requirements of this chapter shall be met.
(C) When an existing use expands, the administrator shall determine whether the extent and
location of the expansion shall require conformity with this chapter. In making such
determination, the administrator may consider the size, location and purpose of the expansion,
the relationship of any existing structures to the expansion, and the nature of surrounding land
uses.
(4) Exemption from Buffer Yard Requirements. When a land use requires direct and unobstructed access
to an adjacent transportation facility such as a railroad or airport, the requirements of this chapter
shall be waived to the extent necessary to allow for such access.
(5) Use of Existing Materials.
(A) Existing, healthy plant materials on a parcel may be used to meet the requirements of this
chapter.
(B) Any open space created pursuant to Chapter 16.22 may be used to meet the requirements of this
chapter.
(C) Any wetland or associated buffer set aside pursuant to any federal, state or county
environmental regulation may be used to meet the requirements of this chapter.
(6) Additional Requirements for Agricultural Lands. For lands adjacent to agricultural resource lands, in
addition to the bufferyard requirements otherwise required, all structures or uses shall maintain a
minimum setback of one hundred feet from designated agricultural tracts for land designated as urban
growth areas, rural activity centers or rural community centers, or fifty feet for lands designated as
rural areas, except for any structure or uses which have been identified as permitted uses in
agricultural resource lands. Residential clusters created on lands adjacent to agricultural resource lands
through a performance subdivision as provided in Chapter 16.22, Mason County Code, shall be
separated from the agricultural resource land by the designated open space areas to a minimum width
Page 25 of 81
of one hundred feet on lands designated as urban growth areas, rural activity centers or rural
community centers, or fifty feet for lands designated as rural areas.
(7) Required Plant Material Specifications. Figure 17.03.039 identifies the minimum sizes of the various
types of plant materials required under this chapter.
(8) Substitution of Plant Materials.
(A) In buffer yards D, E, and F, evergreen canopy or evergreen under story trees may be substituted
for deciduous canopy or under story without limitation.
(B) In buffer yards A, B, and C, up to fifty percent of deciduous canopy or under story may be
substituted with evergreen canopy or under story.
(C) In all buffer yards, evergreen or conifer shrubs may be substituted for deciduous shrubs without
limitation.
(9) Maintenance of Plant Materials.
(A) All planting materials required by this section shall be maintained by the property owner in a
manner to assure the health of the planting, and to assure that the buffer yard continues to serve
its intended function.
(B) If any required planting materials shall cease to serve their intended function due to size, age or
health, the property owner shall replace such planting material with the same or similar plant
types, as provided in this chapter.
(10) Variations of Buffer Yard Requirements.
(A) In all buffer yards, planting requirements may be reduced by twenty‐five percent by increasing
the width of the buffer by fifty percent.
(B) In all buffer yards, the required width of the buffer yard may be reduced by fifty percent by
increasing the amount of plantings by one hundred percent.
(C) In buffer yards A and B, the buffer yard width or the amount of planting may be reduced by fifty
percent if any fence or berm shown in Figure 17.03.037 is used.
(D) In buffer yard C, the buffer yard width or the amount of planting may be reduced by fifty percent
if a structure F3 or above is used.
(E) In buffer yard D, the buffer yard width or the amount of planting may be reduced by fifty percent
if a structure F4 or B2 or above is used.
(F) In buffer yards E and F, the buffer yard width or the amount of planting may be reduced by fifty
percent if a structure F6 or BW1 is used.
(11) Uses Allowed in a Buffer Yard.
(A) Where a wetland or open space set aside for any other purpose is used as a buffer yard, any use
normally allowed in such wetland or open space may be allowed also within the buffer yard,
except that mining, logging, or other forestry activities shall not be permitted in a buffer yard.
(B) Required stormwater facilities may be located within buffer yards, provided that the landscaping
of such facility complies with the requirements of this section.
(12) In the determination of applicable buffer yards, either through this subsection or in Chapter 17.04, the
front yard setback shall not be less than ten feet, except by the granting of a variance (Section
17.05.030).
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Page 26 of 81
Figure 17.03.036
BUFFER YARD REQUIREMENTS
Adjacent Existing Land Use
Classification
Proposed Land Use
Intensity Class
I II III IV V VI
I A B C D E F
II B A B D D F
III C B A C D E
IV D D C B D E
V E D D D C D
VI F F E E D D
Page 27 of 81
17.03.037 Density transfer and agricultural resource lands.
The following provisions apply only to agricultural resource lands or to land in the urban growth area which
has received a transfer of density as described in this chapter:
(1) The standard residential density allowed for development on agricultural resource lands is one
dwelling unit per ten acres, except as otherwise provided in this section.
(A) Resource subdivisions or short plats in agricultural resource lands are subject to the cluster
subdivision provisions of Chapter 16.23 of this code. The maximum allowed density of such
cluster subdivisions is one dwelling unit per five acres. The maximum number of residential lots
that may be created, not including any lots restricted to agricultural/open space use, is equal to
the number of dwelling units allowed. However, where there was a single‐family dwelling on the
property as of December 30, 1997, then an additional residence lot may be created, subject to
the following:
(i) Only one such additional lot may be created for all land which was contiguous and in the
same ownership as of December 31, 1997,
(ii) Each residence existing or vested at the time of application for the land division shall be
each placed on their own residential lot;
(B) Each residential lot created as provided in subsection (1)(A) of this section, is allowed one
dwelling unit;
(2) Agricultural resource lands are granted an additional density of one dwelling unit per five acres, except
that those agricultural resource lands which lie within an urban growth area are granted an additional
density of four dwelling units per acre, provided that, in both cases, this additional density shall only be
used if transferred to land which is not agricultural resource land but which is within the urban growth
area;
(3) Part or all of the agricultural resource lands maximum allowed residential density may be transferred
for use on land which is not agricultural resource land but which is within the urban growth area rather
than used on the originating property;
(4) In the urban growth areas, density transfer under the provisions of this section may be used on the
receiving property in order to allow residential development up to the "Maximum Residential Density,"
shown in Figure 17.03.032, without a performance based subdivision and without compliance with the
performance standards or criteria for such subdivisions as established in Chapter 16.22 of this code.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Page 28 of 81
Page 29 of 81
Figure 17.03.038
BUFFER YARD STANDARDS
Bufferyard
A
Bufferyard
B
Bufferyard
C
Bufferyard
D
Bufferyard E Bufferyard F
Buffer width 5′ 10′ 15′ 20′ 25′ 50′
Structure
Required
no no No F3 or B1* F4 or B2* F5 or B3*
Plant
units/100′
Canopy
trees
0.6 1 2 3 4 8
Under story
trees
1 2 4 6 6 12
Shrubs 0 3 6 9 24 48
Evergreens 0 0 0 0 12 24
* See Figure 17.03.037 for structure details.
Figure 17.03.039
PLANT MATERIAL TYPES
Plant Material Type Planting in Buffer Yards abutting
Vacant Lands
All Other Plantings
Canopy tree (deciduous)
Single stem 1 ½ inch caliper 2 inch caliper
Multi‐stem clump 6 feet height 8 feet height
Under story tree (deciduous) 4 feet height 6 feet height
Evergreen 4 feet height 6 feet height
Shrub
Deciduous 1 gal (15 inches height) 2 gal (24 inches height)
Evergreen 1 gal (12 inches height) 2 gal (18 inches height)
Note: These requirements refer to the minimum size of plant materials at the time of planting.
17.03.040 Off‐street parking.
(a) Parking requirements for all land uses will follow the standards from Chapter 17.08, Mason County Parking
Standards.
(b) In all rural residential zones and inholding lands:
(1) No parcel without a residence shall have more than three vehicles located on the parcel;
(2) No parcel having a residence shall have more than ten vehicles located on the parcel;
(3) The limits of criteria (1) and (2) of this section apply regardless of the specific vehicles on the parcel or
whether the vehicles are moved around on the parcel;
Page 30 of 81
(4) Vehicles contained in permitted residential garages or enclosed buildings approved for occupancy
Group U‐1 (motor vehicle storage) and having a complete floor surface and floor drainage that contains
any fluids from infiltrating into the ground, shall not be counted or included in the limits of criteria (1)
and (2) of this section;
(5) All vehicle accumulations on a parcel made nonconforming by these regulations shall be removed from
the parcel by July 1, 2004;
(6) These limits shall apply to vehicles located on a parcel for more than seven days;
(7) A residence is defined in this section as a site‐built, manufactured, or modular home permanently
installed on the parcel;
(8) Vehicles in this section include, but are not limited to, cars, trucks, vans, buses, recreational vehicles,
trailers, all‐terrain vehicles, motorcycles, watercraft, airplanes, and earthmoving, logging, or
construction equipment, but does not include farm equipment;
(9) Adjoining parcels of common ownership (not separated by state or county road) shall be considered
part of the same parcel for the purposes of this section.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 47‐09, Attach. C, 6‐2‐2009)
17.03.105 Motor vehicle impound yards.
Motor vehicle impound yards and their accessory structures are permitted in designated urban growth areas
at sites which are designated for industrial or commercial/industrial mix on the Mason County comprehensive plan
future land use map for the respective urban growth area, as amended.
(1) When the adjacent parcel is (1) designated industrial and either vacant or in industrial use, or (2)
designated commercial/industrial mix and in industrial use, then the standard F3 fence shall be
required along the property line with such uses.
(2) When the adjacent parcel does not meet the requirements stated in subsection A of this section, then
the proposed impound yard shall be enclosed within a structure, or the operation shall be contained
within one of the following buffers:
(A) A minimum twenty foot wide buffer consisting of a type F4 fence on the project side of the
buffer, together with a type B1 berm and plants as specified in Bufferyard E, planted in such a
fashion that a year‐round screen at least eight feet in height shall be produced within three
growing seasons;
(B) A minimum twenty foot wide buffer consisting of the security and sight obscuring fencing on the
project side of the buffer, together with four canopy trees, twelve understory trees, forty‐eight
evergreen shrubs, and twenty‐four deciduous shrubs per one hundred lineal feet of buffer
planted in such a fashion that a year‐round screen at least eight feet in height shall be produced
within three growing seasons;
(3) Noise, odor, light and glare from these operations shall meet the standards of Section 17.04.400
(performance standards of rural industrial land uses);
(4) These operations shall include the following best management practices: (a) permanent paved surface
that aids in the control and containment of spills and fluid leaks during movement and storage of
impounded vehicles; (b) approved stormwater features that separate contaminants from rainfall and
runoff; and (c) containment of moderate risk waste and petroleum products shall be conducted as set
Page 31 of 81
forth in Mason County Resource Ordinance Section 17.01.080(P), Secondary Containment of Hazardous
Materials;
(5) Guard dogs shall not be used.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.03.200 Intent of sign regulations.
The intent of the sign regulations is to provide minimum standards to safeguard life, health, property and
public welfare by regulating and controlling the size, design, construction, location, electrification and
maintenance of all signs and sign structures; to preserve and improve the appearance of the county as a place in
which to live and as an attraction to nonresidents who come to visit or trade; to encourage sound signing practices
as an aid to business and for public information while preventing excessive and confusing sign displays, aesthetic
clutter, destruction of the environment and signs that pose a hazard to the public.
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.03.201 Exemptions to the sign regulations.
The following are not to be regulated as signs or are exempt signs in the development regulations:
A. The flag, emblem or insignia of a nation or other governmental unit or nonprofit organization subject
to the guidelines concerning their use set forth by the government or organization that they represent;
B. Traffic or other county signs, signs required by law or emergency, railroad crossing signs, legal notices
and signs erected by government agencies to implement public policy;
C. Signs of public utility companies indicating danger or which serve as an aid to public safety or which
show the location of underground facilities or of public telephones;
D. Signs located in the interior of any building or within an enclosed lobby or court of any building or
group of buildings, which signs are designed and located to be viewed exclusively by patrons of such
use or uses;
E. Temporary signs or decorations, which are clearly incidental and customary and commonly associated
with any national, local or religious holiday;
F. "No trespassing," "no dumping," "no parking," "private," signs identifying essential public needs (i.e.,
rest rooms, entrance, exit telephone, etc.) and other informational warning signs, which shall not
exceed three square feet; and
G. Sculptures, fountains, murals, mosaics and design features that do not incorporate advertising or
identification.
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.03.202 Prohibited signs.
The following signs or displays are prohibited in all rural areas of the county and the Shelton UGA:
A. Roof signs;
B. Banners or signs over and/or across county roads;
C. Signs located in county right‐of‐way, unless otherwise approved with a road‐use permit from the public
works department. Except for temporary signs in accordance with the following restrictions:
Page 32 of 81
(1) Signs shall not be posted in a manner or location, which may cause visual obstruction or visual
safety hazard for traffic especially in and around intersections, driveways and other access
points.
(2) Signs shall not be placed in a location typically used by motor vehicles in a lawful manner (road
shoulders).
(3) Signs shall not be placed in a location, which may impede pedestrian, bicycle, or handicapped
travel or access.
(4) Signs shall not be placed within drainage areas and other areas maintained by the county public
works department.
(5) Signs shall not exceed four square feet in size.
D. Signs shall not be posted on trees including in county right‐of‐way.
E. Animated or flashing signs, provided that changing message center signs may be allowed when the
image and/or message remains fixed for at least five seconds and that the only animation or
appearance of movement allowed is the transition from one message and/or image to another by the
scrolling on and/or off of the message and/or image;
F. Signs which, by reason of their size, location, movement, content, coloring or manner of illumination
may be confused with or construed as a traffic control sign, signal or device, or the light of an
emergency or radio equipment vehicle, or which obstruct the visibility of traffic or street sign or signal
device from the traffic intended to be served by the sign, signal or device;
G. Advertising Vehicles. Signs that are attached to or placed on or in a vehicle or trailer parked on public
or private property such that the primary use or intent becomes advertising. This provision is not to be
construed as prohibiting the identification of a firm or its principal products on a vehicle operating
during normal course of business;
H. Signs attached to utility poles or any other publicly owned structure;
I. Off‐premises signs except for temporary signs as allowed in section 17.05.025. An off‐premises sign
shall not include a sign located on private property, other than the property where the business
(business, commodity, service or entertainment conducted, sold or offered) is located provided that:
(1) The sign is placed with the property owner's consent;
(2) The business does not have frontage on a collector road; and
(3) The sign is placed for visibility from the collector road nearest to the business.
J. Any county official may confiscate signs wrongfully placed in the right‐of‐way or off‐premises signs
located in trees.
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.03.203 Nonconforming signs.
Nonconforming signs (those that were permanently installed and legally erected prior to the adoption of this
Code) shall be allowed to continue in use for up to twenty years from the adoption of this code (December 16,
2008) so long as they are continuously maintained, are not relocated, and are not structurally altered or made
more nonconforming in any way.
Signs located in trees shall have until January 1, 2009, to be removed. Signs that aren't removed by January
1, 2009, will be considered a violation subject to fines and enforcement under title 15, chapter 15.13.
Page 33 of 81
Permanent signs located within any part of the county right‐of‐way shall have until January 1, 2009, to be
removed. Signs that aren't removed by January 1, 2009, will be considered a violation subject to fines and
enforcement under title 15, chapter 15.13.
Nonconforming signs listed on a historical register shall be allowed to continue so long as they are
continuously maintained and are not structurally altered or made more nonconforming in any way, with exception
of improving structural integrity.
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
Chapter 17.04 RURAL LANDS DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Division I. Rural Residential
Article I. Rural Residential 2.5 (RR 2.5)
17.04.211 Purpose.
This district provides for residential development, at a density of two and one‐half acres per residential lot,
and where areas of small lot residential development and subdivisions patterns were established before December
5, 1996.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.212 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Single‐family residential, hobby farm (small scale commercial agriculture, including aquaculture and
wood lots), church, group homes, cell towers, public utilities.
(b) Accessory Uses. Cottage industry (home occupation).
(c) Special Permit Required Uses. Cemetery, commercial day care center, essential public facility, schools, and
community and recreation centers..
(d) Signs are permitted not to exceed twelve square feet in size and six feet in height except for temporary signs
permitted by section 17.05.025. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.213 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Maximum of one dwelling unit per two and one‐half acres and one accessory dwelling
unit per parcel; a minimum lot size of two acres, except as provided for in an approved performance
subdivision.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum width at any point of fifty feet.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Twenty‐five feet.
Page 34 of 81
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Side and rear yard setbacks for the residential dwelling and accessory building is
twenty feet, and for accessory structures used for agricultural purposes or home occupations is fifty feet.
Exception to the side yard standard is allowed on a parcel with a lot width up to one hundred feet at the
building site: the required side yard setback for a residential dwelling and accessory structures shall be equal
to ten percent of the lot width but in no case shall be less than five feet from the property line.
(e) A lot created by short plat, large lot or long plat subdivision which is restricted to special purposes, such as
stormwater storage, community play areas, or utility facilities, and is restricted by perpetual covenants
meeting county requirements to said purpose, is not required to meet minimum lot size requirements.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.214 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to twenty, except for fire stations.
(ab) Size. Three Four thousand eight hundred square feet maximum, for non‐agricultural and accessory buildings
except for dwellings and agricultural buildings.
(bc) Height. Thirty‐five feet, except for agricultural buildings, cell towers, antennas, water tanks, or necessary
structural elements for an otherwise compliant permitted land use.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.216 Off‐street parking.
Two spaces per lot.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.217 Special provisions.
(a) Cell towers shall be located per Ordinance No. 5‐98 Telecommunication Towers.
(b) Accessory dwelling units are required to meet Section 17.03.029 standards.
(c) Government operated day care centers, essential public facilities, churches, community centers, and schools
may exceed three thousand sq. ft. as approved by a special use permit. Application for special use permit
requires the applicant to provide the following information to aid in analyzing the request, preparing
necessary conditions, and providing consistency with dimensional and performance standards in these and
other relevant county regulations: the location and size of lot(s); site plan with areas of proposed use; access
to state and county roads; land uses on adjacent properties and potential impacts to those uses by the
proposal; provision of parking areas and stormwater facilities; hours of operations; and anticipated sources
of noise, glare, or odors from proposed use(s).
(d) Essential public facilities, commercial day care centers, and schools which were in existence prior to June 17,
1996 and without a prior special use permit, may expand up to fifteen percent cumulatively from their size
prior to June 17, 1996, without a special use permit. Expansions over fifteen percent will require a special use
permit.
(e) Front yard or rear yard setback may be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(C) or side yard setback may
be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(d).
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Title 17 ‐ ZONING
Chapter 17.04 ‐ RURAL LANDS DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Article II. Rural Residential 5 (RR 5)
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances
Page 35 of 81
Article II. Rural Residential 5 (RR 5)
17.04.221 Purpose.
This district provides for residential development on parcels of five acres or more.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.222 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Single‐family residential, hobby farm (small scale commercial agriculture, including aquaculture and
wood lots), church, local community and recreation centers, group homes, cell towers, fire station, fish
hatchery, public utilities.
(b) Accessory Uses. Cottage industry (home occupation), single‐family residence.
(c) Special Permit Required Uses. Essential public facility, schools, commercial day care centers, cemetery, and
home occupations and cottage industries that do not meet the standards in section 17.03.021.
(d) Signs are permitted not to exceed twelve square feet in size and six feet in height except for temporary signs
permitted by section 17.05.025. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.223 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Maximum of one principal residence per five acres or 1/128th of a section and one
accessory dwelling unit per parcel; minimum lot size of two acres, except in an approved performance
subdivision the minimum lot size is twenty thousand sq. ft., and except for fire stations.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum width at any point of fifty feet.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Twenty‐five feet.
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Side and rear yard setbacks for the residential dwelling is twenty feet, for
accessory buildings shall be twenty feet, for accessory structures used for agricultural purposes or home
occupations shall be fifty feet, and for buildings of nonresidential land uses shall be twenty‐five feet.
Exception to the side yard standard is allowed on a parcel with a lot width up to one hundred feet at the
building site: the required side yard setback for a residential dwelling and accessory structures shall be equal
to ten percent of the lot width but in no case shall be less than five feet from the property line.
(e) A lot created by short plat, large lot or long plat subdivision which is restricted to special purposes, such as
stormwater storage, community play areas, or utility facilities, and is restricted by perpetual covenants
meeting county requirements to such purpose, is not required to meet minimum lot size requirements.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Page 36 of 81
17.04.224 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to twenty, except for fire stations.
(ab) Size. Three Four thousand eight hundred square. feet maximum for non‐agricultural and accessory buildings
,except for dwellings and agricultural buildings.
(bc) Height. Thirty‐five feet, except for agricultural buildings, cell towers, antennas, water tanks, or necessary
structural elements for an otherwise complaint permitted land use.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.226 Off‐street parking.
Two Spaces per Residence. See Parking Ordinance for other land uses; parking setback for nonresidential
land uses shall be twenty‐five feet. .
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.227 Special provisions.
(a) Cell towers shall be located per Ordinance No. 5‐98, Telecommunication Towers.
(b) Accessory dwelling units are required to meet Section 17.03.029 standards.
(c) Government operated day care centers, essential public facilities, churches, community centers, and schools
may exceed three thousand sq. ft. as approved by a special use permit. Application for special use permit
requires the applicant to provide the following information to aid in analyzing the request, preparing
necessary conditions, and providing consistency with dimensional and performance standards in these and
other relevant county regulations: the location and size of lot(s); site plan with areas of proposed use; access
to state and county roads; land uses on adjacent properties and potential impacts to those uses by the
proposal; provision of parking areas and stormwater facilities; hours of operations; and anticipated sources
of noise, glare, or odors from proposed use(s).
(d) Essential public facilities, commercial day care centers, and schools which were in existence prior to June 17,
1996 and without a prior special use permit, may expand up to fifteen percent cumulatively from their size
prior to June 17, 1996, without a special use permit. Expansions over fifteen percent will require a special use
permit.
(e) Front yard or rear yard setback may be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(c) or side yard setback may
be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(d).
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article III. Rural Residential 10 (RR 10)
17.04.231 Purpose.
This district provides for new residential development on parcels of ten acres or more.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Page 37 of 81
17.04.232 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Single‐family residential, hobby farm (small scale commercial agriculture, including aquaculture and
wood lots), church, local community and recreation centers, group homes, cell towers, fire station, fish
hatchery, public utilities.
(b) Accessory Uses. Cottage industry (home occupation), single‐family residence.
(c) Special Permit Required Uses. Essential public facility, schools, commercial child care centers, cemetery, and
home occupations and cottage industries that do not meet the standards in Section 17.03.021.
(d) Signs are permitted not to exceed twelve square feet in size and six feet in height except for temporary signs
permitted by section 17.05.025. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.233 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Maximum of one principal residence per ten acres or 1/64th of a section and one
accessory dwelling unit per parcel; minimum lot size of two acres, except as provided for in an approved
performance subdivision the maximum density which may be allowed is one dwelling per five acres or
1/128th of a section and minimum lot size is twenty thousand sq. ft.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum width at any point of fifty feet.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Twenty‐five feet.
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Side and rear yard setbacks for the residential dwelling is twenty feet, and
accessory buildings shall be twenty feet, and for accessory structures used for agricultural purposes or home
occupations shall be fifty feet. Exception to the side yard standard is allowed on a parcel with a lot width up
to one hundred feet at the building site: the required side yard setback for a residential dwelling and
accessory structures shall be equal to ten percent of the lot width but in no case shall be less than five feet
from the property line.
(e) A lot created by short plat, large lot or long plat subdivision which is restricted to special purposes, such as
stormwater storage, community play areas, or utility facilities, and is restricted by perpetual covenants
meeting county requirements to such purpose, is not required to meet minimum lot size requirements.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.234 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to twenty, except for fire stations.
(ab) Size. Three Four thousand eight hundred square feet maximum for non‐agricultural and accessory buildings,
except for dwellings and agricultural buildings.
(bc) Height. Thirty‐five feet, except for agricultural buildings, cell towers, antennas, water tanks, or necessary
structural elements for an otherwise complaint permitted land use.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Page 38 of 81
17.04.236 Off‐street parking.
Two Spaces per Residence. See Parking Ordinance for other land uses; parking setback for nonresidential
land uses shall be twenty‐five feet..
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.237 Special provisions.
(a) Cell towers shall be located per Ordinance No. 5‐98, Telecommunication Towers.
(b) Accessory dwelling units are required to meet Section 17.03.029 standards.
(c) Government operated day care centers, essential public facilities, churches, community centers, and schools
may exceed three thousand sq. ft. as approved by a special use permit. Application for special use permit
requires the applicant to provide the following information to aid in analyzing the request, preparing
necessary conditions, and providing consistency with dimensional and performance standards in these and
other relevant county regulations: the location and size of lot(s); site plan with areas of proposed use; access
to state and county roads; land uses on adjacent properties and potential impacts to those uses by the
proposal; provision of parking areas and stormwater facilities; hours of operations; and anticipated sources
of noise, glare, or odors from proposed use(s).
(d) Essential public facilities, commercial day care centers, and schools which were in existence prior to June 17,
1996 and without a prior special use permit, may expand up to fifteen percent cumulatively from their size
prior to June 17, 1996, without a special use permit. Expansions over fifteen percent will require a special use
permit.
(e) Front yard or rear yard setback may be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(c) or side yard setback may
be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(d).
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article IV. Rural Residential 20 (RR 20)
17.04.241 Purpose.
This district provides for new residential development on parcels of twenty acres or more.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.242 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Single‐family residential, hobby farm (small scale commercial agriculture, including aquaculture and
wood lots), church, local community and recreation centers, fire station, fish hatchery, cell towers, public
utilities.
(b) Accessory Uses. Cottage industry (home occupation), single‐family residence.
(c) Special Permit Required Uses. Essential public facility, cemetery, and home occupations and cottage
industries that do not meet the standards in Section 17.03.021.
(d) Signs are permitted not to exceed twelve square feet in size and six feet in height except for temporary signs
permitted by section 17.05.025. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
Page 39 of 81
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.243 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Standard density of one principal residence per twenty acres or 1/32nd of a section and
one accessory dwelling unit per parcel; minimum lot size of two acres, except for an approved performance
subdivision the maximum density which may be allowed is one dwelling per ten acres or 1/64th of a section
and minimum lot size is twenty thousand sq. ft.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum width at any point of fifty feet.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Twenty‐five feet.
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Side and rear yard setbacks for the residential dwelling is twenty feet, accessory
buildings shall be twenty feet, and for accessory structures used for agricultural purposes or home
occupations shall be fifty feet. Exception to the side yard standard is allowed on a parcel with a lot width up
to one hundred feet at the building site: the required side yard setback for a residential dwelling and
accessory structures shall be equal to ten percent of the lot width but in no case shall be less than five feet
from the property line.
(e) A lot created by short plat, large lot or long plat subdivision which is restricted to special purposes, such as
stormwater storage, community play areas, or utility facilities, and is restricted by perpetual covenants
meeting county requirements to such purpose, is not required to meet minimum lot size requirements.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.244 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to twenty, except for fire stations.
(ab) Size. Three Four thousand eight hundred square feet maximum, for non‐agricultural and accessory buildings
except for dwellings and agricultural buildings.
(bc) Height. Thirty‐five feet, except for agricultural buildings, cell towers, antennas, water tanks, or necessary
structural elements for an otherwise complaint permitted land use.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.246 Off‐street parking.
Two Spaces per Residence. See Parking Ordinance for other land uses; parking setback for nonresidential
land uses shall be twenty‐five feet. .
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.247 Special provisions.
(a) Cell towers shall be located per Ordinance No. 5‐98, Telecommunication Towers.
(b) Accessory dwelling units are required to meet Section 17.03.029 standards.
Page 40 of 81
(c) Essential public facilities and churches may exceed three thousand sq. ft. as approved by the special use
permit. Application for special use permit requires the applicant to provide the following information to aid
in analyzing the request, preparing necessary conditions, and providing consistency with dimensional and
performance standards in these and other relevant county regulations: the location and size of lot(s); site
plan with areas of proposed use; access to state and county roads; land uses on adjacent properties and
potential impacts to those uses by the proposal; provision of parking areas and stormwater facilities; hours
of operations; and anticipated sources of noise, glare, or odors from proposed use(s).
(d) Essential public facilities, which were in existence prior to June 17, 1996 and without a prior special use
permit, may expand up to fifteen percent cumulatively from their size prior to June 17, 1996, without a
special use permit. Expansions over fifteen percent will require a special use permit.
(e) Front yard or rear yard setback may be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(c) or side yard setback may
be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(d).
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article V. Rural Multi‐Family (RMF)
17.04.251 Purpose.
This district provides fordesignates existing multi‐family residential development including mobile home
parks. New RMF zoning designations are prohibited.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.252 Uses permitted.
Uses. Multi‐family residences, duplex, mobile home park.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.253 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Minimum lot size of five acres.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum width at any point of fifty feet; designate limited and safe
access(es) to roads.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Twenty‐five feet.
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Side and rear yard setbacks for the residential dwelling is twenty feet, and
accessory buildings shall be twenty feet.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.254 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to twenty.
(ab) Size. Three thousand sq. ft. maximum except for dwellings.
(bc) Height. Thirty‐five feet except for cell towers, antennas or water tanks.
Page 41 of 81
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.256 Off‐street parking.
Off‐street parking (stall number and arrangement) shall be provided according with the provisions of the
Mason County parking standards; locate parking to side or rear of building.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.257 Special provisions.
(a) Mobile home park expansions shall comply with the mobile home park ordinance.
(b) Front yard or rear yard setback may be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(c) or side yard setback
may be reduced as provided in Section 17.05.034(d).
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Division II. Rural Commercial
Article I. Rural Commercial 1 (RC 1)
17.04.321 Purpose.
(See Section 17.02.043).
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.322 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Convenience/general store, coffee stand, bed & breakfast, single family residential.
(ba) Uses Permitted with Special Use Permit. Convenience/general store, gas station, restaurant, bed and
breakfast, laundry.
(b) Accessory Uses. Owner occupied residential.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.323 Lot requirements.
(a) Density. One owner/manager occupied residence per lot. Lot size. Dependent on subject property location.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum average width of not less than one‐third of the median
length and a minimum width at any point of fifty feet; designate limited and safe access(es) to roads.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Thirty feet.
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Twenty‐five feet. Buffer plantings required in at least the first ten feet of this
setback.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Page 42 of 81
17.04.324 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to five, except for fire stations.
(ab) Size. Four thousand five hundred sq. ft. maximum except for dwellings.
(bc) Height. Two floors Nnot to exceed thirty‐five feet maximum except for agricultural buildings, antennas or
water tanks.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.325 Signs.
Signs are limited to: 1) a sign attached to the building with an area not to exceed ten percent of the area of
the building face, and 2) a detached sign with an area size not to exceed ten percent of the building face, that is
free‐standing, and with a height maximum of twenty‐five feet or height of building, whichever is less. Temporary
signs permitted by section 17.05.025 are allowed. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.326 Off‐street parking.
Off‐street parking (stall number and arrangement) shall be provided according with the provisions of the
Mason County parking standards.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article II. Rural Commercial 2 (RC 2)
17.04.331 Purpose.
(See Section 17.02.043).
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.332 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Convenience/general store, retail, restaurant, vehicle and equipment repair and maintenance
(automotive, truck, farm implement, and small engines), small office, laundry, professional services, public
meeting space, nursery, post office/fire station, church, local community and recreation centers,
commercial/government operated day care, single‐family residential.
(b) Uses Permitted with Special Use Permit. Gas, self‐storage.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.333 Lot requirements.
(a) Density. One residence per lot. Lot size. Dependent on subject property location.
Page 43 of 81
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum average width of not less than one‐third of the median
length and a minimum width at any point of fifty feet; designate limited and safe access(es) to roads.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Thirty feet.
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Fifteen feet for lots contiguous to lots zoned commercial or industrial use;
otherwise, twenty‐five feet. Buffer plantings required in the first ten feet of this setback.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.334 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to five, except for fire stations.
(ab) Size. Maximum of four thousand five hundred square feet for single tenant and seven thousand five hundred
square feet for multiple tenants; no maximum for dwellings.
(bc) Height. Two floors Nnot to exceed thirty‐five feet maximum except for agricultural buildings, cell towers,
antennas, water tanks, or necessary structural elements for an otherwise complaint permitted land use.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.335 Signs.
Signs are limited to: 1) a sign attached to the building with an area not to exceed ten percent of the area of
the building face, and 2) a detached sign with an area size not to exceed ten percent of the building face, that is
free‐standing, and with a height maximum of twenty‐five feet or height of building, whichever is less. Temporary
signs permitted by section 17.05.025 are allowed. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.336 Off‐street parking.
Off‐street parking (stall number and arrangement) shall be provided according with the provisions of the
Mason County parking standards.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.337 Special provisions.
Reserved.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article III. Rural Commercial 3 (RC 3)
17.04.341 Purpose.
(See Section 17.02.043).
Page 44 of 81
(Ord. 48‐07 (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019)
17.04.342 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Convenience/general store, retail, restaurant, small office, laundry, professional services, personal
services, public meeting space, nursery, public facilities ‐ post office/fire station/fish hatchery/library/ranger
station, church, local community and recreation centers, lodging facilities, including motels, RV parks,
campgrounds and bed and breakfast, marina ‐ sales, service and storage, auto service and repair,
medical/dental clinic, animal clinic, winery, commercial/government operated day care, and single‐family
residential and single‐family accessory use or apartment.
(b) Uses Permitted with Special Use Permit. Gas, self‐storage.
(c) Other Uses. Uses not explicitly enumerated in this section, but closely similar thereto, are determined by the
administrator.
(Ord. 48‐07 (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Att. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 21‐13, Attach. A, 4‐16‐2013; Ord. No. 30‐13, Attach. A, 6‐4‐2013; Ord. No. 53‐16, Att. A, 8‐16‐2016)
17.04.343 Lot requirements.
(a) Density. One residence per lot.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum average width of not less than one‐third of the median
length and a minimum width at any point of fifty feet; designate limited and safe access(es) to roads.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Thirty feet.
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Fifteen feet for lots contiguous to lots zoned commercial or industrial use;
otherwise, twenty‐five feet. Buffer plantings required in the first ten feet of this setback.
(Ord. 48‐07 (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.344 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to five, except for fire stations.
(ab) Size. Maximum of four thousand five hundred sq. feet for single tenant and seven thousand five hundred sq.
feet for multiple tenant; no maximum for dwellings.
(bc) Height. Two floors Nnot to exceed thirty‐five feet maximum except for agricultural buildings, cell towers,
antennas, water tanks, or necessary structural elements for an otherwise compliant permitted land use., or
Height not to exceed fifty‐five feet within the rural activity center of Taylor Town I and II only, as reviewed by
special use permit, not to exceed fifty‐five feet.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 48‐07 (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019)
Page 45 of 81
17.04.345 Signs.
Signs are limited to: 1) a sign attached to the building with an area not to exceed ten percent of the area of
the building face, and 2) a detached sign with an area size not to exceed ten percent of the building face, that is
free‐standing, and with a height maximum of twenty‐five feet or height of building, whichever is less. Temporary
signs permitted by section 17.05.025 are allowed. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
(Ord. 48‐07 (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.346 Off‐street parking.
Off‐street parking (stall number and arrangement) shall be provided according with the provisions of the
Mason County parking standards.
(Ord. 48‐07 (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.347 Special provisions for recreational vehicle parks.
RV parks shall comply with the following additional standards:
(1) No recreational vehicle shall remain in the RV park for rental purposes or for a time period of more
than one hundred twenty consecutive days and one hundred eighty days in a three hundred sixty‐day
period (this standard applies to new occupants at existing mobile home and recreational vehicle parks,
and to new mobile home and recreational vehicle parks). The RV park management shall maintain
rental records identifying each RV and registered occupants and shall present them to the county on
written request. Failure to maintain or to present these records on request shall be sufficient grounds
to rescind the RV park permit.
(2) The recreational vehicle shall be built on a chassis and self‐propelled or permanently towable, and shall
not be set up in a RV park as a permanent structure for limited use.
(Ord. 48‐07 (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.348 Special provisions for building size.
Commercial buildings larger than seven thousand five hundred square feet may be allowed in RC3 zoned
areas with the approval of a special use permit, which shall include the following specific information and
standards:
(1) The site is located in a rural activity center.
(2) The design of the site, structure, and building facade shall be included in the special use permit review
which shall consider the widths and heights typically found in the neighboring commercial
development. This might be accomplished through indenting portions of the structure to separate
portions of the facade, using a variety of architectural styles and building materials, orienting the
building so that larger areas of facade are not visible from public ways or parking areas, or by similar
techniques.
(3) The applicant shall provide market analysis that shows that the proposed size is appropriate to serve its
market and that its market is principally the surrounding rural area and tourist.
Page 46 of 81
(Ord. 48‐07 (part), 2007).
Article IV. Rural Commercial 4 (RC 4)
17.04.351 Purpose.
(See Section 17.02.043) Reserved
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.352 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Convenience/general store, retail, restaurant, small office, laundry, professional services, personal
services, public meeting space, nursery, public facilities ‐ post office/fire station/fish hatchery/library/ranger
station, church, local community and recreation centers, lodging facilities, including motels, RV parks,
campgrounds and bed and breakfast, marina ‐ sales, service and storage, auto service and repair,
medical/dental clinic, animal clinic, winery, commercial/government operated day care, and single‐family
residential accessory use or apartment.
(b) Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit. Gas, self‐storage.
(c) Other Uses. Uses not explicitly enumerated in this section, but closely similar thereto, are determined by the
administrator.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 21‐13, Attach. A, 4‐16‐2013; Ord. No. 30‐13, Attach. A, 6‐4‐2013; Ord. No. 53‐16, Att. A, 8‐16‐2016)
17.04.353 Lot requirements.
(a) Density. One residence per lot.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum average width of not less than one‐third of the median
length and a minimum width at any point of fifty feet; designate limited and safe access(es) to roads.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Thirty feet.
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Fifteen feet for lots contiguous to lots zoned commercial or industrial use;
otherwise, twenty‐five feet. Buffer plantings required in the first ten feet of this setback.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.354 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to five, except for fire stations.
(b) Size. Maximum of four thousand five hundred sq. feet for single tenant and seven thousand five hundred sq.
feet for multiple tenant; no maximum for dwellings.
(c) Height. Two floors not to exceed thirty‐five feet maximum except for agricultural buildings, cell towers,
antennas, water tanks, or necessary structural elements for an otherwise complaint permitted land use, or
within the rural activity center of Taylor Town I and II only, as reviewed by special use permit, not to exceed
fifty‐five feet.
Page 47 of 81
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019)
17.04.355 Signs.
Signs are limited to: 1) a sign attached to the building with an area not to exceed ten percent of the area of
the building face, and 2) a detached sign with an area size not to exceed ten percent of the building face, that is
free‐standing, and with a height maximum of twenty‐five feet or height of building, whichever is less. Temporary
signs permitted by section 17.05.025 are allowed. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.203 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.356 Off‐street parking.
Off‐street parking (stall number and arrangement) shall be provided according with the provisions of the
Mason County parking standards.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.357 Special provisions.
RV parks shall comply with the following additional standards:
(1) No recreational vehicle shall remain in the RV park for rental purposes or for a time period of more
than one hundred twenty consecutive days and one hundred eighty days in a three hundred sixty‐day
period (this standard applies to new occupants at existing mobile home and recreational vehicle parks,
and to new mobile home and recreational vehicle parks). The RV park management shall maintain
rental records identifying each RV and registered occupants and shall present them to the county on
written request. Failure to maintain or to present these records on request shall be sufficient grounds
to rescind the RV park permit;
(2) The recreational vehicle shall be built on a chassis and self‐propelled or permanently towable, and shall
not be set up in a RV park as a permanent structure for limited use.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article V. Rural Commercial 5 (RC 5)
17.04.361 Purpose.
This district provides for existing commercial development that includes open display vehicle sales land uses.
(See Section 17.02.043)
(Ord. 126‐06 Attach. B (part), 2006).
Page 48 of 81
17.04.362 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Sales and service of automobiles and trucks, recreational vehicles, watercraft, and retail sales of
manufactured homes: retail sales, and single‐family residential and single‐family accessory use or apartment.
(b) Uses Permitted with Special Use Permit. Self‐storage.
(c) Other Uses. Uses not explicitly enumerated in this section, but closely similar thereto, are determined by the
administrator.
(Ord. 126‐06 Attach. B (part), 2006).
(Ord. No. 21‐13, Attach. A, 4‐16‐2013; Ord. No. 30‐13, Attach. A, 6‐4‐2013; Ord. No. 53‐16, Att. A, 8‐16‐2016)
17.04.363 Lot requirements.
(a) Density. One residence per lot.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum average width of not less than one‐third of the median
length and a minimum width at any point of fifty feet; designate limited and safe access(es) to roads.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Thirty feet.
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Fifteen feet for lots contiguous to lots zoned commercial or industrial use;
otherwise, twenty‐five feet. Buffer plantings required in the first ten feet of this setback.
(Ord. 126‐06 Attach. B (part), 2006).
17.04.364 Building regulations.
(a) Floor area ratio: one is to three, except for fire stations.
(ab) Size: seven thousand five hundred sq. ft. maximum or reviewed through special use permit.
(bc) Height: two floors Nnot to exceed thirty‐five feet maximum except for antennas or water tanks. Not to
exceed fifty‐five feet, or within the rural activity center of Taylor Town I and II only, as reviewed by special
use permit, not to exceed fifty‐five feet.
(Ord. 126‐06 Attach. B (part), 2006).
(Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019)
17.04.365 Signs.
Signs are limited to: 1) a sign attached to the building with an area not to exceed ten percent of the area of
the building face, and 2) a detached sign with an area size not to exceed ten percent of the building face, that is
free‐standing, and with a height maximum of twenty‐five feet or height of building, whichever is less. Temporary
signs permitted by section 17.05.025 are allowed. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
(Ord. 126‐06 Attach. B (part), 2006).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
Page 49 of 81
17.04.366 Off‐street parking.
Off‐street parking (stall number and arrangement) shall be provided according with the provisions of the
Mason County Parking Standards.
(Ord. 126‐06 Attach. B (part), 2006).
17.04.367 Special provisions.
(a) Retail land uses which were in existence prior to May 1, 2000 and without a prior special use permit, may
expand up to twenty percent cumulatively from their building size at that date, without a special use permit.
Expansions of building size over twenty percent will require a special use permit.
(b) When an existing land use on a subject parcel expands, buffer plantings in the area of expansion shall be
required in the first ten feet of the side and rear yard setbacks.
(Ord. 126‐06 Attach. B (part), 2006).
Division III. Rural Industrial (RI)
17.04.401 Purpose.
The rural industrial (RI) district provides for isolated areas of primarily existing industrial type uses.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.402 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Manufacturing, warehousing, truck yards, and contractor yards.
(b) Accessory Uses. Retail space not to exceed ten percent of the floor area.
(c) Special Permit Required Uses. Accessory air transportation.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 21‐13, Attach. A, 4‐16‐2013; Ord. No. 30‐13, Attach. A, 6‐4‐2013; Ord. No. 53‐16, Att. A, 8‐16‐2016)
17.04.403 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Dependent on subject property location.
(ab) Lot Width and Depth. Designate limited and safe access(es) to roads.
(bc) Front Yard Setback. Fifteen feet.
(cd) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. The side setback shall be twenty feet and the rear setback shall be twenty feet.
At minimum, buffer plantings shall be in the first five feet of this setback.
(de) The setback requirements of this section may be waived to the extent necessary to provide for direct and
unobstructed access to an adjacent transportation facility such as a railroad or airport.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Page 50 of 81
17.04.404 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to five in rural areas or one is to three in RAC, except for fire stations.
(ab) Size. Seven thousand five hundred sq. ft. maximum or reviewed through special use permit.
(bc) Height. No maximum height for incineration facilities, boilers, electrical or generating plants, or industrial
facilities on lands zoned as industrial areas.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.405 Signs.
One monument sign, ten‐foot height and one hundred forty‐square foot size limit; one wall sign that faces
towards street or public access, forty‐square foot size limit, and no more than ten percent of wall area. Temporary
signs permitted by section 17.05.025 are allowed. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.406 Off‐street parking.
Off‐street parking (stall number and arrangement) shall be provided according with the provisions of the
Mason County parking standards.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.407 Special provisions.
New development shall be constructed and operated to meet the following performance standards:
(1) Noise shall be controlled to comply with Chapter 9.36 Mason County Code;
(2) Odor shall be controlled to comply with Olympic Air Pollution Control AuthorityRegion Clean Air
Agency Reg. 1, Section 9.11Rule 8.5;
(3) Light and glare shall be controlled such that:
(A) No light or combination of lights that cast light upon a public street or non‐residentially zoned
property shall exceed one foot‐candle meter reading as measured at the edge of roadway or
property line,
(B) No light or combination of lights that cast light upon a residentially zoned property shall exceed
0.4 foot‐candle meter reading as measured at the residential property line,
(C) Direct or sky‐reflected glare, whether from floodlights or from high‐temperature processes, such
as combustion or welding, shall not be directed into any adjoining property,
(D) No flickering or flashing lights shall be allowed except to the extent necessary to meet state or
federal safety requirements;
(4) No vibration shall be permitted which is discernible beyond the property line to the human sense of
feeling for three minutes or more duration in any one hour, nor any vibration producing an
Page 51 of 81
acceleration of more than 0.1 g, or which results in any combination of amplitudes and frequencies
beyond the "safe" range of Table 7, U.S. Bureau of Mines, Bulletin "Quarry Blasting" on any structure;
(5) Local traffic impact shall be limited to no more than five percent of the existing traffic, except as
provided that by special use permit. Criteria for approval shall include limits on traffic and hours of
operation;
(6) Outside storage of materials shall be screened and not visible from adjacent properties by the use of
landscaping, berming and/or fencing;
(7) The following additional information is required for special use permit requests to aid in analyzing the
request, preparing necessary conditions, and providing consistency with dimensional and performance
standards in these and other relevant county regulations, including, but not limited to: the location and
size of lot(s); site plan with areas of proposed use; access to state and county roads; land uses on
adjacent properties and potential impacts to those uses by the proposal; provision of parking areas and
stormwater facilities; hours of operations; anticipated sources of noise, glare, or odors from proposed
use(s); grading proposed; stormwater and erosion control plans; sanitation and support services
provided; and traffic studies from activities proposed.
Where development existed as of the date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, it shall not meet the
above performance standards, but that development and the adjoining lands shall continue to meet buffer yard
standards as provided in Section 17.04.8023.036.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Division IV. Rural Natural Resource (RNR)
17.04.501 Purpose.
The rural natural resource (RNR) district provides for isolated areas of resource based industry outside of the
designated resource lands.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.502 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Processing of native natural materials, including forest products, mining, aquaculture, agriculture,
(b) Accessory Uses. Storage of finished products, retail sales of products up to ten percent of building area.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.503 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Five acres or greater. dependent on subject property location.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. Designate limited and safe access(es) to roads.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Fifteen feet.
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. The side setback shall be twenty feet and the rear setback shall be twenty feet.
At minimum, buffer plantings shall be in the first five feet of this setback.
(e) The setback requirements of this section may be waived to the extent necessary to provide for direct and
unobstructed access to an adjacent transportation facility such as a railroad or airport.
Page 52 of 81
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.504 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to twenty.
(ab) Size. Two thousand sq. ft. additions or five percent of floor area of existing use buildings; ten thousand sq. ft.
building maximum size for new development, except when larger building sizes are approved by special use
permit.
(bc) Height. Exempt from thirty‐five feet limit.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.505 Signs.
One monument sign, ten‐foot height and one hundred forty‐square foot size limit; one wall sign that faces
towards street or public access, forty‐square foot size limit, and no more than ten percent of wall area. Temporary
signs permitted by section 17.05.025 are allowed. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.506 Off‐street parking.
Off‐street parking (stall number and arrangement) shall be provided according with the provisions of the
Mason County parking standards.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.507 Special provisions.
New development shall be constructed and operated to meet the following performance standards:
(1) Noise shall be controlled to comply with Chapter 9.36 Mason County Code;
(2) Odor shall be controlled to comply with Olympic Air Pollution Control AuthorityRegion Clean Air
Agency Reg. 1, Section 9.11Rule 8.5;
(3) Light and glare shall be controlled such that:
(A) No light or combination of lights that cast light upon a public street or non‐residentially zoned
property shall exceed one foot‐candle meter reading as measured at the edge of roadway or
property line,
(B) No light or combination of lights that cast light upon a residentially zoned property shall exceed
0.4 foot‐candle meter reading as measured at the residential property line,
(C) Direct or sky‐reflected glare, whether from floodlights or from high‐temperature processes, such
as combustion or welding, shall not be directed into any adjoining property,
(D) No flickering or flashing lights shall be allowed, except to the extent necessary to meet state or
federal safety requirements;
Page 53 of 81
(4) No vibration shall be permitted which is discernible beyond the property line to the human sense of
feeling for three minutes or more duration in any one hour, nor any vibration producing an
acceleration of more than 0.1 g, or which results in any combination of amplitudes and frequencies
beyond the "safe" range of Table 7, U.S. Bureau of Mines, Bulletin "Quarry Blasting" on any structure;
(5) Local traffic impact shall be limited to no more than five percent of the existing traffic, except as
provided that by special use permit. Criteria for approval shall include limits on traffic and hours of
operation;
(6) Outside storage of materials shall be screened and not visible from adjacent properties by the use of
landscaping, berming and/or fencing.
Where development existed as of the date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, it shall not meet the
above performance standards, but that development and the adjoining lands shall continue to meet buffer yard
standards as provided in Section 17.04.8023.036.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Division V. Rural Tourist (RT)
17.04.601 Purpose.
(See Section 17.02.047).
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.602 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Marina ‐ sales, service and storage; overnight lodging facilities, including motel, RV park, campgrounds,
and bed and breakfast; golf course, restaurant, retreat centers, commercial or nonprofit recreational activity
facilities (such as water parks, bicycle courses and racquet court sports), and motorized commercial outdoor
recreation (limited to a single parcel or combination of adjacent parcels under single ownership no less than
one hundred acres total in size).
(b) Accessory Uses. Employee housing; maintenance buildings/yards, offices, equipment storage and rental;
retail and gas (one thousand square feet maximum building size); self‐storage (contained space has one
thousand square feet maximum building size; outdoor storage limited to recreation storage).
(c) Special Permit Required Uses. Motorized commercial outdoor recreation (on a single parcel of combination
of adjacent parcels under single ownership less than one hundred acres in total size); air transportation; and
rifle ranges.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 26‐15, 5‐26‐2015)
17.04.603 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Dependent on subject property location.
(ab) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum average width of not less than one‐third of the median
length and a minimum width at any point of fifty feet; designate limited and safe access(es) to roads.
(bc) Front Yard Setback. Thirty feet for buildings; ten feet for signs.
Page 54 of 81
(cd) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Fifteen feet for lots contiguous to lots zoned commercial or industrial use;
otherwise, twenty‐five feet. Buffer plantings required in the first ten feet of this setback.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.604 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to five in rural areas or one is to three in RC3, except for fire stations.
(ab) Size. Five thousand sq. ft. maximum or reviewed by RV Park or special use permit.
(bc) Height. Two floors Nnot to exceed thirty‐five feet maximum except for agricultural buildings, cell towers,
antennas, or water tanks, or as reviewed by special use permit.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.605 Signs.
Signs are limited to: 1) a sign attached to the building with an area not to exceed ten percent of the area of
the building face, and 2) a detached sign with an area size not to exceed ten percent of the building face, that is
free‐standing, and with a height maximum of twenty‐five feet or height of building, whichever is less. Temporary
signs permitted by section 17.05.025 are allowed. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.606 Off‐street parking.
Off‐street parking (stall number and arrangement) shall be provided according with the provisions of the
Mason County parking standards. For bed and breakfasts, one stall for each bedroom shall be provided.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.607 Special provisions.
(a) Application to RT uses requires applicant to provide such information: access to state and county roads;
location and size of lot(s); land uses on adjacent properties; potential impacts to existing residential uses;
how is proposed use related to recreational and tourist activities and/or to commercial services to tourists
and adjacent rural populations.
(b) RV parks shall comply with the following additional standards:
(1) No recreational vehicle shall remain in the RV park for rental purposes or for a time period of more
than one hundred twenty consecutive days and one hundred eighty days in a three hundred sixty‐day
period (this standard applies to new occupants at existing mobile home and recreational vehicle parks,
and to new mobile home and recreational vehicle parks). The RV park management shall maintain
rental records identifying each RV and registered occupant and shall present them to the county on
written request. Failure to maintain or to present these records on request shall be sufficient grounds
to rescind the RV park permit.
(2) The recreational vehicle shall be built on a chassis and self‐propelled or permanently towable, and shall
not be set up in a RV park as a permanent structure for limited use.
Page 55 of 81
(c) Additional information, stated in Section 17.05.046, is required for special use permits, to aid in analyzing the
request, preparing necessary conditions, and providing consistency with dimensional and performance
standards in these and other relevant county regulations.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Division VI. Rural Tourist—Campground (RTC)
17.04.611 Purpose.
(See Section 17.02.047).
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.612 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Overnight lodging facilities, including RV park, and campgrounds; golf course, retreat centers,
commercial or nonprofit recreational activity facilities (such as water parks, bicycle courses, and racquet
court sports), and motorized commercial outdoor recreation (limited to a single parcel or combination of
adjacent parcels under single ownership no less than one hundred acres total in size).
(b) Accessory Uses. Employee housing; motel and bed and breakfast; Marina ‐ sales, service and storage; retail,
gas, self storage, restaurant.
(c) Special Permit Required Uses. Motorized commercial outdoor recreation (on a single parcel or combination
of adjacent parcels under single ownership less than one hundred acres in total size); and rifle ranges.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 26‐15, 5‐26‐2015)
17.04.613 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Dependent on subject property location.
(ab) Lot Width and Depth. All lots shall have a minimum average width of not less than one‐third of the median
length and a minimum width at any point of fifty feet; designate limited and safe access(es) to roads.
(bc) Front Yard Setback. Thirty feet for buildings; ten feet for signs.
(cd) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. Fifteen feet for lots contiguous to lots zoned commercial or industrial use;
otherwise, twenty‐five feet. Buffer plantings required in the first ten feet of this setback.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.614 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to twenty in rural areas, except for fire stations.
(ab) Size. Five thousand sq. ft. maximum or reviewed by RV park or special use permit.
(bc) Height. Two floors Nnot to exceed thirty‐five feet maximum except for agricultural buildings, cell towers,
antennas, or water tanks, or as reviewed by special use permit.
Page 56 of 81
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.615 Signs.
Signs are limited to: 1) a sign attached to the building with an area not to exceed ten percent of the area of
the building face, and 2) a detached sign with an area size not to exceed ten percent of the building face, that is
free‐standing, and with a height maximum of twenty‐five feet or height of building, whichever is less. Temporary
signs permitted by section 17.05.025 are allowed. Signs prohibited by section 17.03.2023 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
17.04.616 Off‐street parking.
Off‐street parking (stall number and arrangement) shall be provided according with the provisions of the
Mason County parking standards. For bed and breakfasts, one stall for each bedroom shall be provided.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.617 Special provisions.
(a) Application to RTC uses requires applicant to provide such information: access to state and county roads;
location and size of lot(s); land uses on adjacent properties; potential impacts to existing residential uses;
how is proposed use related to recreational and tourist activities and/or to commercial services to tourists
and adjacent rural populations.
(b) RV parks shall comply with the following additional standards:
(1) No recreational vehicle shall remain in the RV park for rental purposes or for a time period of more
than one hundred twenty consecutive days and one hundred eighty days in a three hundred sixty‐day
period (this standard applies to new occupants at existing mobile home and recreational vehicle parks,
and to new mobile home and recreational vehicle parks). The RV park management shall maintain
rental records identifying each RV and registered occupant and shall present them to the county on
written request. Failure to maintain or to present these records on request shall be sufficient grounds
to rescind the RV park permit.
(2) The recreational vehicle shall be built on a chassis and self‐propelled or permanently towable, and shall
not be set up in a RV park as a permanent structure for limited use.
Additional information, stated in Section 17.05.046, is required for special use permits, to aid in analyzing the
request, preparing necessary conditions, and providing consistency with dimensional and performance standards
in these and other relevant county regulations.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Division VII. Master Planned Resort (MPR)
Page 57 of 81
17.04.701 Purpose.
The master planned resort district provides for self‐contained and fully integrated planned unit development
in a setting of significant natural amenity, with the primary focus on destination resort facilities consisting of short‐
term visitor accommodations associated with a range of developed on‐site indoor or outdoor recreational
facilities. See section 17.70 Master Development Plans for development regulations.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.702 Uses permitted.
(a) Uses. Recreation facilities; lodging facilities including hotel, motel, RV park, campgrounds; restaurant; retail;
marina ‐ sales, service and storage; golf course; casino; gas.
(b) Accessory Uses. Employee housing.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.703 Lot requirements.
(a) Density and Lot Size. Dependent on subject property location.
(b) Lot Width and Depth. Designate limited and safe access(es) to roads.
(c) Front Yard Setback. Minimize clearing of vegetation buffer and integrate parking to side or rear of building.
(d) Side and Rear Yard Setbacks. The side setback shall be twenty feet and the rear setback shall be twenty feet.
At minimum, buffer plantings shall be in the first five feet of this setback.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.704 Building regulations.
(a) Floor Area Ratio. One is to twenty.
(b) Size. Reviewed through special use permit.
(c) Height. Thirty‐five feet maximum except for agricultural buildings, cell towers, antennas or water tanks, or as
reviewed by special use permit.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. A, 1‐18‐2022)
17.04.705 Signs.
Reviewed as part of special use permit. Temporary signs permitted by section 17.05.025 are allowed. Signs
prohibited by section 17.03.203 are not allowed.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
Page 58 of 81
17.04.706 Off‐street parking.
Off‐street parking (stall number and arrangement) shall be provided according with the provisions of the
Mason County parking standards.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.04.707 Special provisions.
(a) Master planned resorts must be designated by plan amendment and consistent with the Mason County
comprehensive plan policies for master planned resorts.
(b) RV parks existing at the date of development regulations adoption will comply with the existing standards of
the mobile home and recreational vehicle parks ordinance. RV parks reviewed after this date of adoption
shall comply with the following additional standards:
(1) No recreational vehicle shall remain in the RV park for rental purposes or for a time period of more
than one hundred twenty consecutive days and one hundred eighty days in a three hundred sixty‐day
period. The RV park management shall maintain daily rental records identifying each RV and shall
present them to the county on written request. Failure to maintain or to present these records on
request shall be sufficient grounds to rescind the RV park permit;
(2) The recreational vehicle shall be built on a chassis and self‐propelled or permanently towable, and shall
not be set up in an RV park as a permanent structure for limited use.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Division VIII. Buffer and Landscape Requirements
17.04.801 Purpose
The purpose of the buffer and landscape requirements is to provide visual buffering and preservation and
protection of the character of the rural lands. Setbacks and buffer dimensional requirements are specified in each
district of the rural lands and are contained in this chapter.
17.04.802 Planting Requirements
Buffer yard requirements are stated in terms of the number of plant units required per one hundred linear
feet of buffer yard, see Figure 17.04.802(1).
(a) Figure 17.04.802(2) identifies the minimum sizes of the various types of plant materials required under this
chapter.
(b) Substitution of Plant Materials.
(1) In buffer yards D, E, and F, evergreen canopy or evergreen under story trees may be substituted for
deciduous canopy or under story without limitation.
(2) In buffer yards A, B, and C, up to fifty percent of deciduous canopy or under story may be substituted
with evergreen canopy of under story.
Page 59 of 81
(3) In all buffer yards, evergreen or conifer shrubs may be substituted for deciduous shrubs without
limitation.
(c) Maintenance of Plant Materials.
(1) All planting materials required by this section shall be maintained by the property owner in a manner
to assure the health of the planting, and to assure that the buffer yard continues to serve its intended
function.
(2) If any required planting material shall cease to serve their intended function due to size, age or health,
the property owner shall replace such planting material with the same or similar plant types, as
provided in this chapter.
(d) Variations of Buffer Yard Requirements.
(1) In all buffer yards, planting requirements may be reduced by twenty‐five percent by increasing the
width of the buffer by fifty percent.
(2) In all buffer yards, the required width of the buffer yard may be reduced by fifty percent by increasing
the amount of plantings by one hundred percent.
(3) In buffer yards A and B, the buffer yard width or the amount of planting may be reduced by fifty
percent if any fence or berm shown in Figure 17.04.801(3) is used.
(4) In buffer yard C, the buffer yard width or amount of planting may be reduced by fifty percent if a
structure F3 or above is used.
(5) In buffer yard D, the buffer yard width or the amount of planting may be reduced by fifty percent if a
structure F4 or B2 or above is used.
(6) In buffer yards E and F, the buffer yard width or the amount of planting may be reduced by fifty
percent if a structure F6 or BW1 is used.
(e) Uses Allowed in a Buffer Yard.
(1) Where a wetland or open space set aside for any purpose is used as a buffer yard, any use normally
allowed in such wetland or open space may be allowed also within the buffer yard, except that mining,
logging, or other forestry activities shall not be permitted in a buffer yard.
(2) Required stormwater facilities may be located within buffer yards, provided that the landscaping of
such facilities complies with the requirements of this section.
Figure 17.04.802(1)
BUFFER YARD STANDARDS
Buffer yard
A
Buffer yard
B
Buffer yard
C
Buffer yard
D
Buffer yard
E
Buffer yard
F
Buffer
width 5′ 10′ 15′ 20′ 25′ 50′
Structure
Required no no No F3 or B1* F4 or B2* F5 or B3*
Plant
units/100′
Page 60 of 81
Canopy
trees 0.6 1 2 3 4 8
Under
story trees 1 2 4 6 6 12
Shrubs 0 3 6 9 24 48
Evergreens 0 0 0 0 12 24
* See Figure 17.04.802(3) for structure details.
Figure 17.04.802(2)
PLANT MATERIAL TYPES
Plant Material Type Planting in Buffer Yards abutting
Vacant Lands All Other Plantings
Canopy tree (deciduous)
Single stem 1 ½ inch caliper 2 inch caliper
Multi‐stem clump 6 feet height 8 feet height
Under story tree (deciduous) 4 feet height 6 feet height
Evergreen 4 feet height 6 feet height
Shrub
Deciduous 1 gal (15 inches height) 2 gal (24 inches height)
Evergreen 1 gal (12 inches height) 2 gal (18 inches height)
Note: These requirements refer to the minimum size of plant materials at the time of planting.
Figure 17.04.802(3)
BUFFER YARD STRUCTURES & BERMS
Page 61 of 81
Title 17 ‐ ZONING
Chapter 17.05 ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances
Page 62 of 81
Chapter 17.05 ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
Article I. Structures and Uses
17.05.006 Review of structures.
Structures which are assembled for a certain purpose or use shall be reviewed under the standards of that
use (for example, boathouse, dock, boat lift, shed or deck), whether secured in a fixed location or on a mobile
framework.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article II. Nonconforming Buildings and Uses
17.05.011 Applicability.
The provisions of this section shall apply to buildings, lands or uses which become nonconforming as a result
of the application of this chapter to them, or from the classification or reclassification of the property under this
chapter, or any subsequent amendment thereto.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.012 Continuing existing uses.
(a) Any lawful use of land and/or building or structure, either existing or under construction, may be continued,
without regard to whether the use or building becomes nonconforming as a result of application of this
chapter.
(b) Any lawful use of land and/or building or structure for which a use or building permit has been applied may
(subject to the issuance of such permit) be completed, and may be used as intended, without regard to
whether the use or building would be nonconforming as a result of application of this chapter.
(c) Any lawful use of land and/or building or structure which is vested by application of state law may be
completed, and may be used as intended, without regard to whether the use or building would be
nonconforming as a result of application of this chapter.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.014 Alterations and enlargements.
(a) Unless otherwise specifically provided in this chapter, nonconforming buildings shall not be enlarged or
structurally altered unless the enlargement or alteration is required by law, or unless the enlarged building
area is occupied by a conforming use. Any such enlargement or structural alteration shall meet the setback
and buffer requirements of this chapter, as those setback and buffer requirements are applied to the entire
parcel of land, subject to the determination of the administrator., as set forth in Section 17.03.036(3)(C).
(b) Nonconforming nonresidential uses and structures located outside urban growth areas may be permitted to
expand, subject to the following conditions:
Page 63 of 81
(1) The floor area of the existing building(s) shall not increase by more than twenty percent or ten
thousand square feet, whichever is greater; and
(2) The setback and buffer yard requirements of this chapter shall be applied to the entire parcel of land,
and shall be met, subject to the determination of the administrator, as set forth in Section
17.03.036(3)(C).
(c) Normal upkeep, repair and maintenance of nonconforming structures is permitted, provided that such
activities shall not increase the nonconformity of the use or structure(s).
(d) Unless otherwise specifically provided in this chapter, no nonconforming use shall be enlarged or increased,
or extended to occupy a greater area of land than occupied by such use at the time this chapter becomes
effective.
(e) Unless otherwise specifically provided in this chapter, no nonconforming use shall be moved, in whole or in
part, to any other portion of the lot or parcel of land occupied by the nonconforming use at the time this
chapter becomes effective.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.016 Abandonment; reconstruction.
(a) If any nonconforming use of land and/or building is abandoned, or ceases for any reason whatsoever
(including destruction of the building) for a period of two years or more, then any future use of such land
and/or building shall conform to the provisions of this chapter. Upon written request of the property owner,
the administrator shall grant one, one‐year extension to the aforementioned two‐year period.
(b) Any nonconforming building or structure which has been damaged or destroyed by fire, earthquake, flood,
wind or other disaster may be rebuilt for the same nonconforming use only, subject to the following
restrictions:
(1) The restoration or repair of such nonconforming building shall not serve to extend or increase the
nonconformance of the original building or use; and
(2) A building permit allowing for such restoration or repair must be issued within two years of the
disaster. Upon written request of the property owner, the administrator shall grant one, one‐year
extension to the aforementioned two‐year period.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.018 Change of use.
Any current nonconforming use of land or a structure shall not be changed to any other use, unless:
(1) The new use conforms to the provisions of the ordinance codified in this chapter;
(2) The new use is of equal or lesser intensity than the most current use, as determined by the
Classification of Land Uses, Figure 17.03.034;
(3) By special use permit, the new use is of equal to or less intensity than any prior use that occurred in a
ten‐year period preceding the date of application for said special use permit, based upon the current
site conditions and compatibility with area land uses; and
(4) Provided that the land use has not been abandoned per Section 17.05.016.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Title 17 ‐ ZONING
Chapter 17.05 ‐ ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
Article III. Temporary Uses
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances
Page 64 of 81
Article III. Temporary Uses
17.05.022 Temporary construction buildings.
Temporary structures for the housing of tools and equipment, or buildings containing supervisory offices in
connection with construction projects, may be established and maintained during the progress of construction on
such progress. Such buildings and/or structures shall be abated and removed from the premises within thirty days
after completion of the project, or thirty days of cessation of work.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.023 Temporary construction signs.
Signs identifying persons engaged in or responsible for construction on a site shall be permitted while
construction is in progress upon the issuance of a building or use permit. Such sign shall not exceed sixty‐four
square feet (per face) in size, and shall be removed within six months of its placement on the site.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.024 Temporary sales office.
One sales office for the purpose of selling lots or model homes within a subdivision may be constructed on a
subdivision lot and may operate on a subdivision lot until all lots have been sold at which time the sales office shall
convert to residential use or other such use as permitted.
(Ord. 86‐08 Attach. A, 2008).
17.05.025 Temporary signs.
Temporary signs are those signs associated with a particular event or short‐term activity such as, but not
limited to; agricultural or garage sales signs, grand opening displays, festival, carnival or parade signs, political signs
and real estate signsintended and designed to be displayed for a limited period of time and associated with a
particular event or short term activity;, which temporary signs are to be removed within ten days when of the
event or activity endings. Temporary signs are allowed in all rural areas of the county and the Shelton UGA subject
to the following limitations:
(a) Signs shall not be placed within the county right‐of‐way unless otherwise approved with a road‐use
permit from the public works department, and with adjacent property owner's permission, except as
allowed under section 17.03.202(a).C.
(b) Signs shall not be posted in a manner or location that may cause visual obstruction or a visual safety
hazard for traffic especially in and around intersections, driveways and other access points.
(c) It shall be the responsibility of the owner to remove a temporary sign within ten days after such sign is
no longer serving its purpose including, but not limited to; the end of an event, meeting, festival,
carnival or parade; the sale, lease, or rent of property; the end of an annual election cycle; the end of
any type of sale. .
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(d) County officials shall have the authority to remove signs when not placed in accordance with this
section.
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008)
Article IV. Variances
17.05.031 Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to provide a means of altering the requirements of this chapter in specific
instances where the strict application of these regulations would deprive a property of privileges enjoyed by other
properties which are similarly situated, due to special features or constraints unique to the property involved.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.032 Use variances prohibited.
No variance shall be granted to permit the establishment of a use otherwise prohibited within the
development area in which the property concerned is located, except as provided in Section 17.05.018(2).
Applications for such variances shall not be accepted for processing or review.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.034 Granting of variances authorized.
(a) The hearing examiner shall have the authority to grant a variance from the provisions of this chapter when,
in their opinion, the conditions set forth in Section 17.05.036 have been met. The hearing examiner shall
have the authority to attach conditions to any such variance when, in their opinion, such conditions are
necessary to protect the public health, safety or welfare, or to assure that the spirit of this chapter is
maintained.
(b) The administrator shall have the authority to grant a variance from the provisions of this chapter when the
granting of such variance will result in a measurable deviation of ten percent or less from the provisions set
forth in this chapter. In issuing such variance, the administrator shall make a positive determination that the
conditions set forth in Section 17.05.035 have been met. The administrator shall have the authority to attach
conditions to any such variance when, in his (her) opinion, such conditions are necessary to protect the
public health, safety or welfare, or to assure that the spirit of this chapter is maintained.
(c) The administrator may allow a reduction in the required front yard setback or rear yard setback by
administrative variance under the following circumstances: for existing lots of record as of March 5, 2002,
where physical attributes of the lot (such as steep slopes, wetlands, streams, soils; lot width at the front yard
line of no more than fifty feet or lot size of no more than one‐quarter acre; and existing improvements of
buildings, septic systems, and well areas) preclude a proposed development from meeting the twenty‐five‐
foot front yard setback or twenty‐foot rear yard setback standards. The front yard setback or rear yard
setback shall be the minimum necessary to accommodate a reasonable development proposal, but not less
than ten feet distance from the property line or road access easement boundary. The administrator shall
document in the property file the rationale for the administrative variance decision.
(d) The administrator may allow a reduction in the required side yard setback by administrative variance under
the following circumstances: for existing lots of record as of March 5, 2002 that are parcels designated as
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Rural Residential 2.5, Rural Residential 5, Rural Residential 10, or Rural Residential 20, or Rural Multi‐Family;
and where physical attributes of the lot (such as steep slopes, streams, wetlands, and soils; lot width at the
front yard line of no more than fifty feet or lot size of no more than one‐half acre; and existing improvements
of buildings, septic systems, and well areas) preclude a proposed development from meeting the twenty‐foot
side yard setback standard. The variance to the side yard setback shall be the minimum necessary to
accommodate a reasonable development proposal. This side yard setback shall not be less than five feet
distance from the property line. The administrator shall document in the property file the rationale for the
administrative variance decision.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.035 Findings required for approval of a variance.
See Mason County Code Title 15 Development Code Section 15.09.057.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.036 Procedural requirements for a variance.
(a) Application for a variance shall be made to the department of community development, on forms furnished
by the county.
(b) Any application for a variance shall include an application fee as established by the board.
(c) Variance applications decided by the hearing examiner shall require a public hearing, as set forth in Section
17.05.050 of this chapterTitle 15.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article V. Special Uses
17.05.041 Purpose.
A special use is one which possesses unique characteristics due to size, nature, intensity of use, technological
processes involved, demands upon public services, relationship to surrounding lands or other factors. The purpose
of this section is to provide for adequate oversight and review of such development proposals, in order to assure
that such uses are developed in harmony with surrounding land uses, and in a manner consistent with the intent of
this chapter and the comprehensive plan.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.042 Authority.
Review authority is granted under Title 15 Development Code Section 15.03.050, Hearing Examiner.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.044 Decision criteria.
The review of special use permit applications shall be in accordance with the following criteria:
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Any application for a special use permit shall not be approved unless an affirmative finding with regard to
each of these criteria is made.
(1) That the proposed use will not be detrimental to the public health, safety and welfare;
(2) That the proposed use is consistent and compatible with the intent of the comprehensive plan;
(3) That the proposed use will not introduce hazardous conditions at the site that cannot be mitigated
through appropriate measures to protect adjacent properties and the community at large;
(4) That the proposed use is served by adequate public facilities which are in place, or planned as a
condition of approval or as an identified item in the county's capital facilities plan;
(5) That the proposed use will not have a significant impact upon existing uses on adjacent lands; and
(6) If located outside an urban growth area, that the proposed use will not result in the need to extend
urban services.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.046 Procedural requirements for a special use permit.
Review procedures shall follow the standards of Title 15 Development Code Section 15.09, Review and
Approval Process. The following additional information is required, as applicable, for applications for special use
permits, to aid in analyzing the request, preparing necessary conditions, and providing consistency with
dimensional and performance standards in these and other relevant county regulations. Including but not limited
to:
(1) The location and size of lot(s);
(2) Site plan with areas of proposed use;
(3) Access to state and county roads;
(4) Land uses on adjacent properties and potential impacts to those uses by the proposal;
(5) Provision of parking areas and stormwater facilities;
(6) Hours of operations;
(7) Anticipated sources of noise, glare, or odors from proposed use(s);
(8) Grading proposed;
(9) Stormwater and erosion control plans;
(10) Sanitation and support services provided; and
(11) Traffic studies from activities proposed.
(Ord. 100‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007: Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
Article VI. Administration and Enforcement
17.05.071 Validity and severability.
(a) This chapter shall be governed by the laws of the state of Washington. In the event that any portion or
section of the ordinance codified in this chapter be declared invalid or unconstitutional by a court of
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competent jurisdiction, the remainder of the ordinance codified in this chapter shall not be affected and shall
remain in full force and effect.
(b) This chapter is intended to conform to and promote the provisions of the Mason County comprehensive
plan. In the event of conflict between the two documents, the more specific interpretation shall apply.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.072 Enforcement.
Enforcement procedures are set forth in Title 15 Development Code Chapter 15.13, Enforcement. No permit
for the construction, alteration or expansion of any building, structure or part thereof shall be issued unless the
plans, specifications and intended uses of the subject property conform in all respects to the provisions of this
chapter.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.079 Amendments.
This chapter may be amended whenever required by public necessity, convenience or welfare. Amendments
may be initiated by the board, the planning advisory commission, the administrator, or by any owner of property
within Mason County. Amendments may be made either to the text, or to the development areas map. The
procedure for an amendment shall be as follows:
(1) Petitions for amendment shall be received by the administrator, who shall forward such petition to the
planning advisory commission and the board for review;
(2) The planning advisory commission shall, in public session, review and consider the proposed
amendment. Upon due deliberation, the commission shall forward its recommendation to the board.
The commission shall not make an affirmative recommendation unless it finds that the proposed
amendment is in conformity to the comprehensive plan;
(3) Upon receipt of the recommendation of the commission, the board shall set a date for a public hearing
on the amendment. Notice requirements for the public hearing shall be as set forth in Section
17.05.052Title 15;
(4) The board shall conduct its hearing in accordance with the provisions set forth in Section 17.05.054Title
15;
(5) In its deliberations, the board shall first determine whether the proposed amendment is in conformity
with the comprehensive plan. The board shall not approve an amendment unless it makes such an
affirmative finding.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
17.05.080 Rezone criteria.
(a) Rezone Criteria. The county shall review a rezone proposal and enter written findings for the following
criteria:
(1) Development allowed by the proposed rezone designation shall not damage public health, safety and
welfare;
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(2) The zone designation shall be consistent with the Mason County comprehensive plan, development
regulations, and other county ordinances, and with the Growth Management Act; and that designation
shall match the characteristics of the area to be rezoned better than any other zone designation;
(3) No rezone shall be approved if, either by itself or together with other rezoning and/or development,
whether actual or potential, the cumulative impacts of such zoning would be to materially increase
sprawling, low‐density rural development, or to significantly increase uses incompatible with resource‐
based uses in the vicinity;
(4) No rezone to more intensive land use shall be approved if, either by itself or together with other
rezoning and/or development, whether actual or potential, the cumulative impacts of such zoning
would be to materially increase demand for urban services in rural areas, including, but not limited to,
streets, parking, utilities, fire protection, police and schools;
(5) No rezone to more intensive land use shall be approved if, either by itself or together with other
rezoning and/or development, whether actual or potential, the cumulative impacts of such zoning
would be to materially interfere with the Growth Management Act goal to encourage development in
urban areas where adequate public services and facilities exist or can be provided in an efficient
manner;
(6) No rezone to more intensive land use shall be approved if, either by itself or together with other
rezoning and/or development, whether actual or potential, the cumulative impacts of such zoning
would be to materially interfere with the Growth Management Act goal to encourage retention of
open space, to conserve fish and wildlife habitat, and generally to protect the environment, including
air and water quality;
(7) No rezone to more intensive land use shall be approved if, either by itself or together with other
rezoning and/or development, whether actual or potential, the cumulative impacts of such zoning
would be to create pressure to change land use designations of other lands or to increase population
growth in rural areas as projected in the Mason County comprehensive plan;
(8) These criteria shall not be construed to prevent corrective rezoning of land necessitated by clerical
error or similar error of typography or topography committed in the original zoning of such land.
(b) Rezone Characteristics. The burden of proof shall be on the applicant to show through responses to these
criteria and information provided that the proposed rezone to more intensive land use is warranted. In rural
activity centers and hamlets, any rural land use rezone may be appropriate provided that the criteria above
are satisfied. Outside of rural activity centers and hamlets, approval of rezone requests to a more intensive
land use in rural areas shall not exceed five per calendar year and the total amount of acreage subject to
rezoning shall not exceed fifty acres, except for errors in original zoning, as specified in subsection (a)(8) of
this section. For purposes of this section, the numeric limit shall apply to both direct rezones for rural
residential to rural commercial, rural tourist, or rural industrial, and also intervening rezones from rural
residential to rural tourist, rural tourist campground, or rural natural resources with subsequent rezone
requests to rural commercial or rural industrial. For purposes of this section, the total acreage limit shall not
include the acres of parcels rezoned to rural tourist campground or rural natural resources.
Such rezones must involve small‐scale businesses as defined in Mason County Code Chapter 17.06, be
isolated as required by RCW 36.70A.070(5)(d), and may not occur within one‐half mile by road of any urban
growth area, rural activity center; hamlet; or isolated rural commercial, rural tourist, or rural industrial area, or any
other LAMIRD under RCW 36.70A.070(5)(d). Rural Commercial 3 zoning shall not be allowed outside of rural
activity centers and hamlets. Rural natural resource, rural residential, rural tourist campground, and master
planned resorts may occur anywhere in rural areas provided that the criteria above are satisfied. In the siting of
new rural natural resource districts, consideration must be given that current and potential future development on
site will not, in combination with development on adjacent properties, create a pattern of low‐density sprawling
development.
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(c) Initial Zoning after Redesignation of Resource Land. Subsections (a) and (b) do not apply to a decision to
initially zone land when it is redesignated from long‐term commercial forest. pursuant to policy RE‐105 of the
comprehensive plan. The board of commissioners shall determine the initial zoning for such redesignated
land by applying the planning policies in Chapter III of the Comprehensive Plan.
(Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 36‐12, Att. A, 4‐17‐2012)
Chapter 17.06 DEFINITIONS
17.06.010 Definitions.
Note: The definitions used in the Mason County development regulations are those terms defined in
Moskowitz, Harvey S. and Lindbloom, Carl G.; The New Illustrated Book of Development Definitions. New
Brunswick, NJ, Center for Urban Policy Research, 1993, except as specifically defined in separate county
ordinance(s).
"Accessory building or use" means any building or use which:
(1) Is subordinated to, and serves a principal building or principal use; and
(2) Is subordinate in area, extent or purpose to the principal building or principal use served; and
(3) Contributes to the comfort, convenience or necessity of occupants of the principal building or principal
use served; and
(4) Is located on the same lot as the principal building or principal use served, with the single exception of
such accessory off‐street parking facilities as are permitted to locate elsewhere than on the same lot
with the building or use served.
"Accessory dwelling unit or ADU" means a second dwelling unit added onto, created within or detached from
an existing single‐family detached dwelling for use as a completely independent or semi‐independent unit with
provisions for cooking, eating, sanitation and sleeping. See Section 17.03.029 for requirements for ADUs.
"Accessory uses" include signs that are related to and support a business or activity.
"Adequate public facilities" means facilities which have the capacity to serve development without
decreasing levels of service below locally established minimums. (WAC 365‐195‐210)
"Administrator" means the director of community development for Mason County shall serve as the
administrator. The board may also designate an acting administrator who shall have all of the duties and powers of
the administrator in the absence of or inability of the administrator to act.
"Adult day‐care facility" means an establishment providing for regularly‐scheduled care and supervision of
adults whose age or medical condition warrants such care, and where such care is provided for periods of less than
twenty‐four hours.
"Adult retirement community" means a residential development for persons who are at least fifty‐five years
of age. Such development may include the following as accessory uses:
(1) Social and recreation activities;
(2) Communal meal service;
(3) Limited health care facilities;
(4) Transportation facilities; and
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(5) Personal services.
"Agricultural lands" means land primarily devoted to the commercial production of horticultural, viticultural,
floricultural, dairy, apiary, vegetable, or animal products or of berries, grain, hay, straw turf, seed, Christmas trees
not subject to the excise tax imposed by RCW 84.33.100 through 84.33.140, or livestock.
"Agricultural resource lands" means land designated by Mason County as agricultural lands of long‐term
commercial significance.
"Agricultural sales sign" means a usually seasonaltemporary sign used to announce and/or direct the public
to a sale of locally grown agricultural products.
"Air transportation" means commercial air transport service, such as charter and/or docking facilities.
"Animated sign" means any sign which includes action or motion or the optical illusion of action or motion,
or color changes of all or any part of the sign facing, requiring electrical energy, or set in motion by movement of
the atmosphere.
"Appurtenant structure" means a structure that is ordinarily connected to the use and enjoyment of a single‐
family residence; normal appurtenant structures include, but are not limited to, a garage, deck, storage shed,
woodshed, pump house, upland retaining wall and fence.
"Aquaculture" means the commercial cultivation of aquatic life, such as fish, shellfish and seaweed.
"Assisted living facility" means an institution or a distinct part of an institution that is licensed or approved to
provide healthcare under medical supervision for twenty‐four or more consecutive hours to two or more patients
who are not related to the governing authority or its members by marriage, blood or adoption.
"Available public facilities" means that facilities or services are in place or that a financial commitment has
been made to provide that facilities or services within a specified time. In the case of transportation, the specified
time is six years from the time of development. (WAC 365‐195‐210)
"Bed and breakfast" means overnight accommodations and a morning meal in a room or suite of rooms
provided to guests for compensation, where such room or suite is located in a building occupied by the owner of
the facility.
"Best management practices" means a physical, structural, or managerial practice which has gained general
acceptance for its ability to prevent or reduce environmental impacts.
"Billboard" means the same as an off‐premises sign.
"Board" means the Mason County board of commissioners.
"Bufferyard" means an area of plantings surrounding a land use which screens or blocks vision, noise
pollutants, or other negative by‐products associated with that use. The bufferyard might consist of open space,
landscaped areas, undisturbed areas of natural vegetation, fences, walls, berms or any combination thereof.
"Building" means a structure intended for use or occupancy by humans.
"Building face" means the wall on the side of the building facing the road accessing the property; the size of
sign is the portion (i.e. ten percent) of the area value resulting from the product of the wall height times the wall
width.
"Building size" is determined by measuring the building footprint from the outside walls. Does not include
roof overhangs up to two feet. Roof overhangs larger than two feet from outside wall will be included in the
overall size of the building.
"Capacity" means the measure of the ability to provide a level of service on a public facility.
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"Capital improvement" means land, improvements to land, structures (including design, permitting, and
construction), initial furnishings and selected equipment. Capital improvements have an expected useful life of at
least ten years.
"Carrying capacity" means the intrinsic constraints on the development of an area. The development that
may be allowed without an (unacceptable) significant adverse impact, on a cumulative basis, on an environmental
or social value intended to be protected by the comprehensive plan. Carrying capacity in the biological sciences is
the population of a species in a particular environment which can be sustained on an on‐going basis. "The
maximum number of inhabitants that an environment can support without detrimental effects." (Websters 11) For
human populations, this concept less useful in the sense that resources which are locally in short supply can be
transferred from anywhere in the world, and the level of impact that human society has on the environment is
variable based on the technology used and the way that technology and other human activities are managed.
Humans do not have the limited range of behaviors other species have. Examples of values to be protected in the
plan would be native fisheries or rural character.
"Cemetery" means in accordance with R.C.W. 68.40, any one or combination of the following land uses in a
place used for, or intended to be used and dedicated, for cemetery purposes: (1) burial park for earth interment;
(2) mausoleum for crypt interment; and columbarium for permanent cinerary interment.
"Changing message center sign" means an electrically or electronically controlled sign where different
automatic changing messages are shown on the same lamp blank.
"Child care center, commercial." "Commercial child care center" means an establishment providing for
regularly‐scheduled care, supervision and protection of children for periods less than twenty‐four hours. Such
establishment shall be subject to licensing and regulation requirements pursuant to WAC 388‐155.
"Child care center, family." "Family child care center" means an establishment providing for regularly‐
scheduled care, supervision and protection of children for periods less than twenty‐four hours, in a dwelling,
where such care and supervision is provided by a resident of the dwelling, and where no nonresident is regularly
employed. Such establishment shall be subject to licensing and regulation requirements pursuant to WAC 388‐150.
"City" means any city or town, including a code city. (RCW 36.70A.030)
"Clustered development" means grouping the allowed development on only a portion of the site in such a
way that a significant proportion of the site remains in common open space, recreation, resource‐based use, any
combination of those uses, or remains undeveloped with some kind of restriction on additional development.
"Commercial uses" means businesses involved in: (1) the sale, lease or rent of new or used products to the
consumer public; (2) the provision of personal services to the consumer public; (3) the provision of leisure services
in the form of food or drink and passive or active entertainment; or (4) the provision of product repair or servicing
of consumer goods.
"Commission" means the Mason County planning advisory commission.
"Community on‐site septic systems" means a sewage system used to serve multifamily residential complexes
or groups of individual residences.
"Comprehensive land use plan, comprehensive plan, or plan" means the Mason County comprehensive plan,
as adopted pursuant to the Growth Management Act, and as thereafter may be amended.
"Concurrency" means adequate public facilities are available when the impacts of development occur. This
definition includes the two concepts of "adequate public facilities" and of "available public facilities" as defined in
this section. (WAC 365‐195‐210)
"Consistency" means a term which means that no feature of a plan or regulation is incompatible with any
other feature of a plan or regulation. Consistency is indicative of a capacity for orderly integration or operation
with other elements in a system. (WAC 365‐195‐210)
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"Construction sign" means any sign used to identify the architects, engineers, contractors or other individuals
or firms involved with the construction of a building and announce the character of the building or the purpose for
which the building is intended.
"Contiguous development" means development of areas immediately adjacent to one another. (WAC 365‐
195‐210)
"Convenience store" means any retail establishment offering for sale prepackaged food products, household
items, newspapers and magazines, and sandwiches and other freshly prepared foods, such as salads, for off‐site
consumption.
"Cottage housing" is generally defined as a grouping of small, single family dwelling units clustered around a
common area and developed with a coherent plan for the entire site.1
"Cottage industry" means a business, occupation, or profession that is incidental to a residential use and is
carried on by a member or members of the household living in the residential unit on the site. There may be up to
five employees working on the site who do not reside on the site. Cottage industries may be conducted within the
residential dwelling or within an accessory structure.
"County" means Mason County, Washington.
"Critical areas" means areas which include the following areas and ecosystems: (a) wetlands; (b) areas with a
critical recharging effect on aquifers used for potable water; (c) fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas; (d)
frequently flowed areas; and (e) geologically hazardous areas. (RCW 36.70A.030)
"Density" means a measure of the intensity of development, generally expressed in terms of dwelling units
per acre. Density can also be expressed in terms of population (i.e., people per acre).
"Density transfer" means the transfer of all or part of the permitted residential density on a parcel to
another parcel.
"Design guidelines" means a set of guidelines defining parameters to be followed in site and/or building
design and development.
"Design standards" means a set of standards defining parameters to be followed in site and/or building
design and development.
"Development" means the construction, reconstruction, conversion, structural alteration, relation or
enlargement of any structure, and any mining, excavation, filling, or other associated land disturbance.
"Development districts" means areas in which a variety of development options are allowed if they are
consistent with the purpose of the district.
"Development regulations" means any controls placed on development or land use activities by a county or
city. Including, but not limited to, zoning ordinances, subdivision ordinances, and binding site plan ordinances.
(RCW 36.70A.030)
"Director" means the director of community development, and whose responsibilities may be delegated
when not contrary to law or ordinance.
"Domestic water system" means any system providing a supply of potable water which is deemed adequate
pursuant to RCW 19.27.097 for the intended uses of a development. (WAC 365‐195‐210)
"Easement" means a covenant which grants or restricts a specific right of use.
"Educational learning center" means a facility dedicated to environmental and resource education and
research. This land use would be permitted on lands designated for long term agricultural use in urban growth
1Note(s)—"What is Cottage Housing?" MRSC.Org, 30 November 2016
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areas with a special use permit. This land use would be permitted on agricultural resource lands with a special use
permit, using the special use permit criteria and meeting the standard that the proposed land use shall have no
more cumulative impacts than if the land remained in traditional agricultural production.
"Environmental impact statement (EIS)" means a document detailing the expected environmental impacts of
a proposed action.
"Erosion" means the wearing away of the earth's surface as a result of the movement of wind, water or ice.
"Erosion hazard areas" means those areas that because of natural characteristics, including vegetative cover,
soil texture, slope gradient, and rainfall patterns, or human‐induced changes to such characteristics, are vulnerable
to erosion.
"Essential public facilities" means and includes facilities such as prisons, correctional facilities, juvenile
detention centers, courthouses, wastewater/sanitary treatment facilities and systems, solid waste facilities,
transportation facilities (including public works operations and vehicle maintenance facilities), airports and
hospitals.
"Facility" means the physical structure or structures in which a service is provided.
"Fire flow" means the amount of water volume needed to provide fire suppression. Adequate fire flows are
based on industry standards, typically measure in gallons per minute (gpm). Continuous fire flow volumes and
pressures are necessary to insure public safety. The fire flow volume shall be in addition to the requirements of the
water system for domestic demand.
"Flashing sign" means any sign which contains an intermittent or flashing light source or which includes the
illusion of intermittent or flashing light by means of animation or an externally mounted intermittent light source.
"Floodplain" means that area of land adjoining a body of water that has been or may be covered by
floodwater.
"Floor area ratio" is determined by summing the gross horizontal areas of all the floors of a building,
measured from the exterior walls, or the centerline of walls separating two buildings, and dividing that sum by the
gross area of the parcel proposed for use or development. Space devoted to off‐street parking or loading is not
included in this calculation.
"Front yard" and "front yard setback" mean the space extending the full width of the lot between a structure
or building and the front lot line or road easement boundary, whichever is closer. The setback is measured from
the furthest projection of the building to the closest point of the front lot line or road easement boundary,
whichever is closer. See Figure 17.06 A.
"Fully contained community (FCC)" means a reserved capacity for new urban development that will be
characterized by urban densities and intensities, urban governmental services, and meets the criteria established
in the comprehensive plan and in RCW 36.70A.350.
"Garage sale signs (yard sales, moving sales, patio sales)" means temporary signs used to announce and/or
direct the public to a sale of used items.
"Geologically hazardous areas" means areas that because of the susceptibility to erosion, sliding, earthquake,
or other geological events, are not suited to the siting of commercial, residential, or industrial development
consistent with public health or safety concerns. (RCW 36.70A.030)
"Greenbelt" means a linear corridor of open space which often provides passive recreation and
nonmotorized transportation opportunities, serves as a buffer between developments and varying land uses, or
creates a sense of visual relief from urban landscapes.
"Groundwater" means water that fills all the unblocked pores of material lying beneath the water table.
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"Group homes" means a nonprofit or for‐profit boarding home for the sheltered care of persons with special
needs, which may provide food, shelter, and a combination of personal care, social and counseling services and
transportation.
"Growth Management Act (GMA), or Act" means the Growth Management Act as enacted in 1990 and
subsequently amended by the state of Washington.
"Hamlets" are intended to provide a focal point and community identity for surrounding rural area, while
they meet some of the immediate needs of rural residents, resource dependent industry, and visitors. They may
include one or two civic, community, or retail uses such as post office, community center, church, grange, gas
station, or small convenience store. Residential uses are not included in hamlets. They may be served by
community water systems and community sewage treatment facilities but have only rural governmental services.
"Height" shall be measured using average grade level. The average of the natural or existing topography of
the portion of the lot, parcel, or tract of real property which will be directly under the proposed structure and shall
be determined by averaging the ground elevations at the midpoint of all exterior walls of the proposed structure.
"Hobby farm" means rural parcel(s) with a principal residential land use and secondary noncommercial or
small‐scale commercial farming, livestock raising, aquaculture, or forestry activities conducted on the property.
"Home occupation" means a business, occupation, or profession that is incidental to and carried on within a
portion of a residential dwelling unit by a member or members of the household. The business may have up to
three employees in addition to members of the household.
"Hotel" means a facility offering guest lodging accommodations to the general public and providing
additional services, such as restaurants, meeting rooms, entertainment and recreational facilities.
"Household" means all persons who occupy a housing unit which is intended as separate living quarters and
having direct access from the outside of the building or through a common hall. The occupants may be a single‐
family, one person living alone, two or more families living together, or any other group of related or unrelated
persons who share living arrangements. (U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census)
"Impact mitigation" means the mitigation of the negative impacts of a development proposal. Mitigation
includes, but is not limited to the following: avoiding the impact through change in the proposal, minimizing the
impact through changes to the proposal, rectifying the impact by repairing, rehabilitating or restoring the affected
environment, reducing or eliminating the impact over time by preservation and maintenance operations during
the life of the action, compensating for the impact by replacing, enhancing, or providing substitute resources or
environments, and monitoring the impact and taking appropriate corrective measures. The term includes to
voluntary and mandatory actions to compensate for the costs of reducing impacts; including traffic impacts.
"Infill" means the development of housing or other buildings in vacant sites in an already developed area.
"Infrastructure" means facilities and services needed to sustain industry, residential, and commercial
activities. Infrastructure may include, but not be limited to, water and sewer lines, streets, and power and
communication lines.
"Inholding land" means blocks of land that are surrounded on all sides by designated long‐term commercial
forest lands and are crucial for conservation of those lands, but are not directly of long‐term commercial
significance for forestry.
"Inn" means a commercial facility for the housing and feeding of guests, where the principal structure of
such facility has been converted from a residential use.
"Intensity" means a measure of land use activity based on density, use, mass, size and impact.
"Level of service (LOS)" means an established minimum capacity of public facilities or services that must be
provided per unit demand or other appropriate measure of need. (WAC 365‐195‐210); a qualitative measure
describing the operational conditions within the traffic stream, and their perception by motorists and passengers.
Page 76 of 81
"Local and community recreation centers" or "community centers" means places and buildings primarily
designed for use by local residences for sports, leisure‐time activities, or assembly for the public or for community
service groups.
"Long‐term commercial forests" or "long‐term commercial forest land" means land so designated by the
county in order to provide special protection for the continued use of the land for the production of timber. Land
primarily devoted to growing trees for long‐term commercial timber production on land that can be economically
and practically managed for such production as defined in RCW 36.70A.30(8) and (10).
"Lot" means a designated parcel, tract, or area of land established by plat, subdivision, or as otherwise
permitted by law, to be used, developed or built upon as a unit. See Figure 17.06 A to see location of lot lines and
setbacks.
"Major arterial" or "principal arterial" means roads which convey traffic along corridors to areas of a high
density of commercial or industrial activity. Major arterial or principal arterial emphasize mobility and de‐
emphasize access.
"Master planned resort" means a self‐contained and fully integrated development in a setting of significant
natural amenities that includes short‐term visitor accommodations associated with a range of developed on‐site
indoor or outdoor recreation facilities. It may also include permanent residential uses as an integrated plan of the
overall resort development. (WAC 365‐195‐210)
"Minerals" means a term which includes gravel, sand, and valuable metallic substances. (RCW 36.70A.030)
"Minor arterial" or "secondary arterial" means roads which link activity centers and convey traffic onto major
arterial. Minor arterial provide both mobility and access.
"Mixed use" means development that combines two or more different land uses in the same project. For
example, a mixed use project may include both commercial uses and residential uses.
"Mobile home" means a factory‐assembled structure, transportable in one or more sections, that is built on
a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when
connected to the required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, and electrical systems contained therein.
"Mobile home park" means a tract of land occupied or designed for occupancy by two or more mobile
homes.
"Modular housing," or "modular home" refers to a dwelling that is designed for human habitation and is
either entirely or substantially prefabricated or assembled at a place other than a building site. Modular homes or
modular housing, commonly referred to as factory built housing, are placed on permanent foundations. For the
purposes of this chapter, modular homes shall be treated the same as any other single‐family dwelling units.
"Multifamily" means a structure containing four or more, joined dwelling units.
"Nonconforming land use" means a use or activity that was lawful prior to the adoption, revision or
amendment of the ordinance codified in this chapter but fails by reason of such adoption, revision or amendment
to conform to the present performance standards of the Mason County development regulations.
"Nonconforming structure" means a structure that was lawful prior to the adoption, revision or amendment
to the ordinance codified in this chapter but fails by reason by such adoption, revision or amendment to conform
to the present performance standards of the Mason County development regulations.
"Nontraditional housing types" means dwelling types other than on‐site built housing units. Nontraditional
housing types include, but are not limited to, manufactured housing, mobile homes and houseboats.
"Office" means a structure that generally houses a business, government, professional, medical or financial
institution for the nondaily needs of individuals, groups or organizations.
Page 77 of 81
"Off‐premises sign" means a sign that directs attention to a business, commodity, service or entertainment
conducted, sold or offered at a location other than the premises on which the sign is located.
"On‐premises sign" means any communication device, structure or fixture that is intended to aid in
identification and to advertise and/or promote a business, service, activity, interest or view at the location on
which the sign is located.
"Open space." There are three kinds of open space land: private, common use, and public open space.
Private open space includes farms, forest lands, and other parcels of undeveloped land. Common use open space is
land within a residential development or other development which is designated for common access by the
residents of the development or by the general community. Public open space is publicly‐owned land available for
recreational use of the entire community. Open water areas, such as the hood canal or lakes, is also often
considered as open space because it creates a sense of openness.
"Performance standards" means criteria that are established and must be met before a certain use or
intensity of use will be permitted. These measures are designed to guide development of property and include, but
are not limited to, open space requirements, site design, bufferyards, screening, size and heights limits for
buildings, noise, vibration, glare, heat, air or water contaminants and traffic.
"Performance subdivision" means a subdivision or short subdivision in which the applicant seeks to gain
additional residential density by designing the proposed development in clusters of development and areas of
open space which recognizes and preserves those land elements which are deemed worthy of protection. Within
this chapter, performance subdivisions include those authorized under Chapters 16.22 and 16.23 of this code.
"Permitted use" means any use which is authorized or allowed outright, not requiring a special use permit or
the approval of the board.
"Person." Within the context of this chapter, "person" means and intended to include an individual, firm,
partnership, association or corporation; or a state, or any political subdivision of a state, or any agency thereof.
"Personal services" means establishments primarily engaged in providing services involving the care of a
person, or his or her personal goods or apparel.
"Planned unit development (PUD)" means a residential development that includes a mix of housing types
such as single‐family, townhouses, and other multi‐family, and groups uses to provide common open space or to
include recreation such as golfing as part of the development.
"Plat" means a map or plan, especially of a piece of land dividing into building lots.
"Political sign" means a temporary sign advertising a candidate or candidates for public elective office, or a
political party, or sign urging a particular vote on a public issue decided by ballot.
"Primary treatment" means the first step in wastewater treatment in which solids in a wastewater stream
are allowed to settle out. The suspended solids and the BOD (biochemical oxygen demand) are reduced by twenty‐
five to forty percent.
"Public services" means and includes fire protection and suppression, law enforcement, public health,
education, recreation, environmental protection and other governmental services. (RCW 36.70A.030)
"Public water system" means any systems of water supply intended or used for human consumption or other
domestic uses, including source, treatment, storage, transmission, and distribution facilities where water is being
furnished to any community, collection, or number of individuals, but excluding a water systems serving on single‐
family residence. (WAC 248.54)
"RCW" means Revised Code of Washington.
"Real estate signs" means any temporary sign pertaining to the sale, lease or rental of land or buildings.
Page 78 of 81
"Rear yard" and "rear yard setback." The "rear yard" means the space extending the full width of the lot
between a structure or building and the rear lot line and measured perpendicular to the building to the closest
point of the rear lot line. The "setback" is measured from the furthest projection of means the closest distance
from the structure to the rear lot line. See Figure 17.06 A.
"Recreation storage" means the storage of recreational vehicles, boats, boat trailers, camper trailers,
personal water craft, and similar outdoor recreational equipment.
"Recreational vehicle (RV) park." As defined in the mobile home and recreational parks Ordinance No. 118‐
91.
"Rehabilitation" means the physical improvement, remodeling, or partial reconstruction of existing
structures rather than their demolition and replacement.
"Residential development" means the development of land, or the construction or placement of dwelling
units for residential occupancy or appurtenant structures and for accessory uses. This definition shall not be
construed to authorize any use under the variance criteria.
"Resource lands" means those lands which are suitable for agriculture, forest mineral extraction and
protected by resource lands regulations.
"Resource‐based" means a use that is dependent upon, or supports uses that are dependent upon, natural
resources including, but not limited to, forestry, agriculture, aquaculture, horticulture and mineral extraction.
"Resource‐based industry" means a manufacturing, industrial, or commercial business which requires a
location near agricultural land, forest land, or mineral resource land or aquacultural area upon which it is
dependent or supports. Examples include sawmills, plant nurseries, feed stores.
"Retail" means the selling of goods or merchandise to the public and providing services incidental to the sale
of such goods. Retail does not include new and used auto sales, boat sales, recreational vehicle sales, or
mobile/modular home sales.
"Right‐of‐way" means land owned by a government or an easement for a certain purpose over the land of
another, used for a road, ditch, electrical transmission line, pipeline, or public facilities such as utility or
transportation corridors.
"Road adequacy standards" means standards by which government agencies can assess whether adequate
road facilities are being provided and regulated.
"Roof sign" means any sign erected upon, against or directly above a roof or on top of or above the parapet
of a building.
"Runoff" means water from rain, snowmelt, or irrigation that flows over the ground surface and returns to
streams.
"Rural activity center (RAC)" means concentrated settlements within rural lands that may include a variety of
residential, small scale commercial, resource‐based and rural light industrial, recreation and public uses. They may
also include a compact, pedestrian‐oriented core. They may be served by community water systems and have
community sewage treatment facilities but have only rural governmental services. They reflect an existing
development pattern, but they are not intended to expand. RAC boundaries are established in the comprehensive
plan.
"Rural areas" means rural areas in Mason County include those areas not designated as urban areas,
resource lands, RACs or hamlets. They currently provide for rural residential, farming, forestry, recreation, and
single‐purpose commercial, retail and industrial uses. These uses are expected to continue and increase over the
next twenty years. In rural areas, the rural landscape will remain dominant, and include a variety of protected
natural features.
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"Rural lands" means those areas outside of designated resource lands and urban growth areas. Natural
features contribute significantly to rural character of these lands. These features include, but are not limited to,
forests, farmlands, and farm buildings, pastures, meadows, shorelines, wetlands, streams, lakes, hills and
mountains. Types of uses within rural lands include resource‐based land uses, recreational uses, residential uses,
and low intensity nonresidential uses. Rural lands can be served by rural governmental services and included
districts such as rural activity centers, hamlets and rural areas.
"Sandwich board sign" means an "a‐framed" portable sign measured by height X width.
"Sanitary sewer systems" means all facilities, including approved on‐site disposal facilities, used in the
collection, transmission, storage, treatment or discharge of any waterborne waste, whether domestic in origin or a
combination of domestic, commercial or industrial waste. (WAC 365‐195‐210)
"Secondary treatment" means the second step in purifying sewage which uses biological processes in
additional to settling and provides purification from eighty‐five to ninety‐five percent.
"Seismic hazard areas" means areas subject to severe risk of damage as a result of earthquake induced
ground shaking, slope failure, settlement or soil liquefaction.
"Self‐Storage Facility" means a building or group of buildings containing separate, individual, and private
storage spaces of varying sizes available for lease or rent for varying periods of time.2
"Sewage" means the total of organic waste and wastewater generated by residential, industrial and
commercial establishments.
"Sewer" means the closed pipe which carries raw sewage from a home or business to a treatment facility.
"Sewerage" means the entire system of sewage collection, treatment and disposal.
"Side yard" and "side yard setback" mean the space extending the full width of the lot between a structure
or building and the side lot line and measured perpendicular to the building to the closest point of the side lot line.
The side yard setback is measured from the furthest projection of the closest distance from the structure to the
side lot line. See Figure 17.06 A.
"Sight distance" means the length of a roadway required which is sufficient enough to ensure safe operation
of a motor vehicle at posted speeds.
"Sign" means any communication device, structure or fixture that is intended to aid in identification and to
advertise and/or promote a business, service, activity or interest. For the purpose of this chapter, a sign shall not
be considered to be building or structural design, but shall be restricted solely to graphics, symbols or written copy
that is meant to be used in the aforementioned way.
"Single‐family dwelling" means a detached building containing one dwelling unit.
"Small scale" means a term which indicates that development regulations will limit the intensity, size, scale,
number of uses and other factors of a particular development.
"Small scale business" means any business entity, including a sole proprietorship, corporation, partnership,
or other legal entity, that is owned and operated independently from all other businesses, that has the purpose of
making a profit, and that has twenty or fewer employees.
"Solid waste" means all putrescible and nonputrescible non‐putrescible solid and semisolid wastes, including,
but not limited to, garbage, rubbish, ashes, industrial wastes, swill, demolition and construction wastes,
abandoned vehicles or parts thereof and recyclable materials. (RCW 70.95.030)
2Note(s)—Moskowitz, Harvey S. (2004) The latest illustrated book of development definitions (new expanded ed.)
Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey
Page 80 of 81
"Special needs housing" means all housing that is designed for an individual or family who requires
supportive social services in order to live independently or semi‐independently. These households require all types
of housing including emergency, transitional and permanent housing. Special needs groups include, but are not
limited to, the homeless; elderly; AIDS victims; single parents; runaway and homeless youth; severely physically
handicapped; mentally and emotionally disturbed; chronically mentally ill, developmentally disabled; farm workers
(migrant labor households) and persons with substance abuse problems. (Washington State Department of
Community Development, Assessing your Community's Needs, a Practical Guide to Preparing Housing Assessments
under the GMA and CHAS Requirements, June 1992.)
"Special use permit" means a "special use" refers to a land use that are found to possess characteristics
relating to their size, numbers of people involved, the traffic generated, and their immediate impact on the area
which makes impractical their being identified exclusively with any particular performance district as defined in
this chapter. In order to determine that the location of these uses will not be unreasonably incompatible with uses
permitted in the surrounding areas; and to permit the planning commission to recommend stipulations and
conditions as may reasonably assure that the basic intent of this chapter will be served, these uses will be subject
to review and recommendation by the planning commission and final determination by the board regarding the
approval, denial or approval with conditions for the issuance of a special use permit by the Mason County
community department of community development.
"State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)" means a Washington state law requiring the systematic assessment
of the environmental impacts of any action that is expected to significantly affect the environment.
"Structure" means anything constructed in the ground, or anything erected which requires location on the
ground, or is attached to something having location on or in the ground, but not including fences or signs seven
feet or less in height, driveways, or other paved areas.
"Subdivision" means the division of a lot, tract, or parcel of land into two or more lots, plats, sites, or other
divisions of land for the purpose of sale, lease, or transfer of ownership, unless specifically exempted in RCW
Chapter 58.17.040.
"Surface waters" means streams, rivers, ponds, lakes or other waters designated as "waters of the state by
the Washington Department of Natural Resources (WAC 222‐16‐030)."
"Temporary sign" means those signs intended and designed to be displayed for a limited period of time and
associated with a particular event or short term activity, associated with a particular event or short‐term activity,
such as, but not limited to; agricultural or garage sales signs, festival, carnival or parade signs, political signs and
real estate signs, which are to bethen removed within ten days when of the event or activity endings.
"Tertiary treatment" means the third step in purifying sewage that removes additional nutrient levels.
"Urban governmental services" means and includes those governmental service historically and typically
delivered by cities, and include storm and sanitary sewer services, fire and police protection services, public transit
services and other public utilities associated with urban areas and normally not associated with non‐urban areas.
(RCW 36.70A.030)
"Urban growth" means growth that makes intensive use of land for the location of buildings, structures, and
impermeable surfaces to such a degree as to be incompatible with the primary use of such land for the production
of food, other agricultural products, or fiber, or the extraction of mineral resources. When allowed to spread over
wide areas, urban growth typically requires urban governmental services. "Characterized by urban growth" refers
to land having urban growth located on it, or to land located in relationship to an area with urban growth on it as
to be appropriate for urban growth. (RCW 36.70A.030)
"Urban growth area" means those areas designated by a county pursuant to RCW 36.70A.110.
"Urban level of facilities and services" means those services defined as "urban governmental services" with
levels of service as defined within capital facilities element of the Mason County comprehensive plan.
Page 81 of 81
"Utilities or public utilities" means enterprises or facilities serving the public by means of an integrated
systems of collection, transmission, distribution, and processing facilities through more or less permanent physical
conditions between the plant of the serving entity and the premises of the customer. Included are systems for the
delivery of natural gas, electricity, telecommunications services, and water for the disposal of sewage. (WAC 365‐
195‐210)
"Water dependent use" means a use or portion of a use which cannot exist in any other location and is
dependent on the water by reason of the intrinsic nature of its operations. Examples of some water dependent
uses include: boat ramps, swimming areas, aquaculture, marinas, water intakes and outfalls, fish pens and fish
screens.
"Watershed" means region drained by or contributing water to a stream, lake or other body of water.
"Wetland or wetlands" means areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a
frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of
vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swaps, marshes, bogs
and similar areas. Wetlands do not include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from non‐wetland sites,
including, but not limited to, irrigation and drainage ditches, grass‐lined swales, canals, detention facilities,
wastewater treatment facilities, farm ponds, and landscape amenities, or those wetlands created after July 1,
1990, that were unintentionally created as a result of the construction of a road, street, or highway. Wetlands may
include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from non‐wetland areas created to mitigate conversion of
wetlands. (RCW 36.70A.030)
(Ord. 73‐07 Attach. B (part), 2007; Ord. 108‐05 Attach. B (part), 2005).
(Ord. No. 134‐08, 12‐16‐2008; Ord. No. 14‐14, Att. A, 3‐18‐2014; Ord. No. 72‐16, Att. A, 10‐18‐2016; Ord. No. 09‐
17, Attach. A, 3‐17‐2017)
Figure 17.06A
ATTACHMENT B
Title 17 ‐ ZONING
Chapter 17.10 GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALLYN ZONING CODE*
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances
Page 1 of 57
Chapter 17.10 GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALLYN ZONING CODE*
Article I. General Provisions
17.10.110 Title.
The regulations codified under Chapters 17. 10 to 17.17 shall be known as the Allyn Zoning Code, which code
adopts a zoning districting plan for the Allyn urban growth area.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.120 Authority.
The Allyn Zoning Code is enacted under the authority and police powers of Mason County and the Revised
Code of Washington including, but not limited to, the requirements and authority of Chapter 36.70, Planning
Enabling Act and Chapter 36.70A RCW, the Washington State Growth Management Act.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.130 Purpose and applicability.
Purpose. The purpose of this code is to:
(1) Establish zoning districts (map) and development regulations (text) to guide the development and use
of property within the Allyn Urban Growth Area (AUGA) consistent with and implementing the vision,
goals and policies of the Mason County Comprehensive Plan and of the Allyn Urban Growth Area Plan.
(2) Provide safe, attractive and livable residential neighborhoods with a variety of affordable housing units
for at members of the community.
(3) Provide for a combination of neighborhood, community wide and tourist based commercial
opportunities within distinct functional zoning districts that encourage compatible and complementary
uses with a related scale and design.
(4) Provide adequate parking, attractive signage, pedestrian access and open spaces.
(5) Promote an urban and neighborhood design that enhances public safety through adequate but non‐
intrusive street and structure lighting, creation of defensible spaces, reduced response times,
identification and separation of hazardous uses, readable and consistent building addressing and
adequate fire hydrant location, flows and pressure.
(6) Provide for development of a sustainable urban infrastructure, with minimum negative impacts on the
environment and limiting fiscal impacts on existing residents and businesses, concurrent with the
demand for services.
(7) Provide for efficient and safe traffic flow for vehicles, non‐motorized vehicles and pedestrians.
(8) Provide for the development of a variety of parks and open spaces in all districts.
Page 2 of 57
(9) Preserve and promote the natural setting of the community.
(10) Provide for sustainable economic growth, including job creation, within a predictable development
environment.
(11) Provide for thorough, timely and complete review of development proposals to ensure compatibility
with the Allyn urban growth area comprehensive plan as well as county and state design, construction
and environmental regulations.
Applicability. Except as specifically provided below, the regulations in Chapters 17.10 through 17.16 of the
Allyn Zoning Code apply to the use and development of all the properties located within the boundary of the Allyn
urban growth area. Use and development of properties includes, but is not limited to, new uses and development
as well as changes of use or alteration to existing structures or developed sites.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.140 Relationship to the Mason County comprehensive plan and other sections of the
Mason County Code.
(a) Comprehensive Plan. The Growth Management Act requires consistency between the comprehensive plan
and development regulations such as zoning. These zoning regulations are intended to implement the
Growth Management Act Goals, the county wide planning policies, and the goals, policies and objectives
adopted in the comprehensive plan for urban areas. This includes, but is not limited to: land use, building
density and intensity, roadway functionality, utilities and infrastructure, open space, housing, protection of
sensitive environmental areas and concurrency of infrastructure.
(b) Mason County Code. All other sections of the Mason County Code apply within the Allyn Urban Growth Area
as provided in those sections, except where the Allyn Zoning Code provides text or maps specific to the Allyn
UGA.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.150 Relationship to the private agreements.
The county has no authority to enforce private covenants, conditions and restrictions either recorded by
deed or other agreements except as their compliance may have been made a part of a project approval. However,
permit approval by the county does not establish a right in conflict with private Covenants, Conditions and
Restrictions.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Article II. Allyn Zoning Code Specific Definitions
17.10.200 Allyn Zoning Code specific definitions.
The Allyn Zoning Code specifically defines the following definitions and abbreviations. For other definitions,
refer to the Mason County Code, Title 17, Chapter 17.06 Definitions:
"Accessory dwelling unit" or "ADU" means a second dwelling unit added onto or created within an existing
single‐family dwelling for use as a completely independent or semi‐independent unit with provisions for cooking,
eating, sanitation and sleeping. See Section 17.03.029 for requirements for ADUs as applicable.
In the Allyn UGA, ADUs must meet the following requirements:
Page 3 of 57
(1) The ADU shall be subject to a special use permit, unless in the shoreline jurisdiction, it is subject to a
shoreline permit;
(2) In shoreline jurisdiction, the owner of the ADU must reside on the lot in either the principal residence
or ADU;
(3) The ADU shall not exceed fifty percent of the square footage of the habitable area of the primary
residence or one thousand feet, whichever is smaller;
(4) All setback requirements must be met by the ADU;
(5) All applicable health district standards for water and sewer must be met by the ADU;
(6) No recreational vehicles shall be allowed as ADU;
(7) Only one ADU is allowed on any property;
(8) An additional off‐street parking space must be provided for the ADU.
"Group dwellings" means and includes boarding houses, nursing homes, rest homes, boarding schools, or
private residence clubs, excluding adult family homes of six or fewer persons as exempted by state regulation.
"Gross acreage" or "gross area" means all land, excluding tidelands, within the exterior boundaries of the
development, including, but not limited to, land allocated for open space and land to be dedicated for streets or
roads.
"Height, building" or "building height" means the vertical distance from average finish grade level to the
highest point of a building or structure excluding any chimney, antenna, or other uninhabitable vertical
appurtenances.
"Lot coverage" means the portion of a lot that is occupied by impervious surfaces, including, but not limited
to, buildings, parking areas, and sidewalks.
"Net acres," "net acreage," or "net square feet" means the net acreage or square‐footage is calculated from
the gross area of the site less any lands allocated for open space or right‐of‐way.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. B, 1‐18‐2022)
Article III. Districts Established
17.10.310 Established.
Zoning Districts within the Allyn UGA are established as follows:
"R‐1" Single‐Family Residential District
"R‐1R" Residential ‐ Recreational District
"R‐1P" Residential ‐ Platted District
"R‐2" Medium Density Multifamily Residential District
"R‐3" High Density Multifamily Residential District
"MHP" Mobile Home Park Overlay District
"VC" Village Commercial District
"T" Tourist Commercial Overlay District
"HC" Highway Commercial District
"BP" Business Park District
"PF" Public Facility Overlay District
"PD" Planned Development Overlay District.
Page 4 of 57
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.320 Boundaries—Map.
(a) A parcel specific Allyn UGA Official Zoning Map (Allyn Map), designating the boundaries of zoning districts
and approved overlay districts and planned developments, shall be adopted and signed by the county board
of commissioners, which map shall be on file with the planning department. The zoning districts established
by this title are also available as a series of GIS layers (“layers”) on the Mason County GIS
(gis.masoncountywa.gov/mason). The public web‐based GIS is adopted as a part of this title insofar as it
indicates such designations, locations and boundaries of zoning districts, and shall be deemed to be part of
this title.
(b) The map (“layers”) shall be amended as provided for in Title 17, Section 17.05.079 Amendments of the
Mason County Code.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Article IV. General Regulations
17.10.410 Purpose and applicability.
To provide for regulations that are applicable to the various zoning districts in the Allyn UGA in general.
Development within the all districts established by the Allyn Zoning Code, Chapters 17.10 to 17.17 shall be subject
to the general regulations and provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.420 Group dwellings.
Group dwellings, such as boarding houses, nursing homes, rest homes, boarding schools, or private residence
clubs, excluding adult family homes of six or fewer persons as exempted by state regulation, shall be permitted
only in multifamily residential districts and shall require a special use permit for the establishment, operation and
maintenance of such use. State licensed adult family homes are permitted uses in all residential and commercial
zones.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.430 Accessory uses and buildings.
Accessory uses and buildings may only be established concurrent with or subsequent to the primary
structure. They shall be consistent in design with the primary building, and they shall not alter the nature of the
use on site in respect to uses permitted in the district.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Page 5 of 57
17.10.440 Height limits generally.
Chimneys, silos, cupolas, monuments, radio and other towers, water tanks, church steeples and similar
structures and mechanical appurtenances may be permitted in excess of height limits provided a special use
permit is first obtained in each case; provided, however, that telecommunication towers and antenna and amateur
radio are regulated under Ordinance Number 5‐98 as amended (Ordinance Number 53‐04). (Note: Ordinance
Number 5‐98 allows addition of an antenna to existing structures under certain height limits and camouflaged
"alternative tower structures" up to seventy feet in urban growth areas without a special use permit. Amateur
radio is not restricted.)
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.450 Special use permit required for certain uses.
It is recognized that certain uses have special operational characteristics that have the potential to adversely
affect adjacent properties and/or businesses. Accordingly, uses that are conditionally allowed within the
established zoning districts, subject to obtaining a special use permit, shall require review and approval on an
individual basis.
Special use permits shall be reviewed by the standards adopted in Chapter 17.05, Article V of the Mason
County Code. As a condition of approval, the special use permit review shall include consideration of operating
hours, adjacent and nearby incompatible uses, parking demand and availability, noise, access, impact on services,
security and suitability of the site and/or structure to the proposed use and may provide conditions on the
proposal appropriate to the findings on these issues in addition to the other criteria for a special use permit.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.460 Setbacks.
(a) Where a parcel is less than fifty feet in width the required side yard setback shall be five feet, but in no case
shall be less than required by building or fire codes.
(b) No accessory structure shall be located closer than five feet from a property line.
(c) Residential development may be eligible for a reduction of the standard side yard setback with review and
approval of a building administrative variance, but in no case shall the setback be less than required by
building or fire codes.
(d) The expansion of existing residential structures located in commercial or industrial zones shall comply with
the setback requirements for the type of structure in the zone in which it is allowed.
(e) All required setbacks shall be measured from the nearest property line, except that front yard setbacks shall
be measured from the property line or the edge of an access easement.
(f) Proof of survey is required for any building permit for a new building or expansion of the building footprint.
The survey shall be no older than ten years unless the relevant survey monuments are visible.
(g) Additional building setback—Buildings shall be setback from the rights‐of‐way of the plat of Allyn as set forth
on the "Proposed Plat of Allyn Right‐of‐Way Map," dated April 28, 2005.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. C, 1‐18‐2022)
Page 6 of 57
17.10.470 Dedication and/or improvement of public right‐of‐way and/or easements.
Subdivision or short subdivision approval shall require the dedication of, or granting of easements for, land
required for construction of any road, water, sewer, utility or other public purpose necessary to serve the site. Any
new residential construction, commercial construction, or change of use approval shall be conditioned to provide
for public right‐of‐way and/or easement improvements of streets and sidewalks, or other provisions for
pedestrians, according with the adopted road and pedestrian access plan as necessary to serve the site.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.480 Underground utilities.
All service utilities such as telephone, TV cable, electric power lines, etc., shall be placed underground within
a utility easement, in conduit and or utility ducting, for any new site development, construction or major
reconstruction. Utility boxes may be contained within underground utility vaults, or located above grade when
carefully located and property screened to minimize visual impacts. Said undergrounding shall be at the expense of
the project developer or owner of the property that is the being developed, redeveloped, or undergoing
substantial reconstruction. Existing overhead power or communication lines along the frontage of any new site
development or major reconstruction shall be placed underground at the expense of the developer or property
owner as a condition of permit issuance unless the site has less than two hundred feet of street frontage or the
utilities are located along the west side of Highway 3. If less than two hundred feet, then property owner provides
an easement for underground utilities list above. Any and all installers and providers of conduit and utility ducting
must allow, for a fee, the sharing or equal access to conduit and or utility ducting infrastructure. Unless voluntarily
entered into, this section shall not be applicable or required for adjacent properties that are not a part of the site
development, redevelopment, or substantial reconstruction.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.490 Vehicle parking.
Outdoor Vehicle Parking in the residential districts R‐1, R‐2, and R‐3 shall be limited as provided including
boats and RVs shall comply with the following standards:
(1) Unenclosed vehicle storage or parking is prohibited on parcels without a residence or business.
(2) No parcel having a residence shall have more than one inoperable vehicle located on the parcel.
(3) The limits of subsections (1) and (2) above apply regardless of the specific vehicles on the parcel or
whether the vehicles are moved around on the parcel.
(4) All vehicle accumulations on a parcel made non‐conforming by these regulations shall be removed
from the parcel within six months from the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter.
(5) These limits shall apply to vehicles located on a parcel for more than seven days.
(6) A residence is defined in this section as a site‐built, manufactured, or modular home permanently
installed on the parcel.
(7) Vehicles in this section include, but are not limited to, cars, trucks, vans, buses, recreational vehicles,
trailers, all‐terrain vehicles motorcycles, watercraft, airplanes, and earthmoving, logging, or
construction equipment, but do not include farm equipment.
(8) Adjoining parcels of common ownership (not separated by state or county road) shall be considered
part of the same parcel for the purposes of this section.
Page 7 of 57
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.495 Cluster development.
The clustering of residential density as provided in a master development plan or on adjoining lots in
common ownership is allowed in residential districts only to provide a diversity of housing types densities, and
affordability, preserve unique, fragile, and environmentally critical areas; provide efficient use of the land and
infrastructure; implement tow low impact development techniques; promote innovative, quality design; and
provide for the inclusion of on‐site amenities such as open spaces, community facilities, enhanced landscaping,
and recreational opportunities. Cluster development allows grouping of residential structures on a portion of the
available land while reserving a significant amount of the site as undeveloped open space. Housing density of the
underlying district remains the same while residences are clustered on a smaller portion of the total available land.
The remaining land shall be converted into undeveloped open space and shared by the residents of the
community. Maximum lot coverage, lot area, building height, dimensions, setbacks, and parking requirements for
the underlying zoning district shall apply to the cluster development.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Article V. "PD"—Planned Development Overlay District
17.10.510 Purpose.
The intent of the planned development (PD) overlay zoning district is to encourage creative, imaginative new
development that would not otherwise be allowed under the strict application of this title. Specifically, it is the
purpose of this chapter to:
(1) Encourage flexibility in design and development that will result in a more efficient and desirable use of
land and greater preservation of open space;
(2) Permit flexibility of design, placement of buildings, use of required open spaces, circulation facilities,
off‐street parking areas, and otherwise better utilize the potential of sites characterized by special
features, such as geography, topography, size or shape;
(3) Provide for maximum efficiency in layout of streets, utility networks, and other public improvements;
(4) Produce an integrated or balanced development of supportive uses that might otherwise be
inharmonious or incongruous;
(5) Provide a guide for developers and county officials who review and approve developments meeting the
standards and purposes of this chapter; and
(6) Encourage the use of low impact development (LID) practices to reduce stormwater runoff, and
promote the use of credits or incentives to achieve this purpose.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.520 Overlay zoning district.
Planned development, approved in accordance with the procedures of this chapter, shall be an overlay zone
and the uses are limited to those which are allowed in the underlying zoning district. Planned developments shall
be required where this overlay zone appears on the Allyn urban growth area (UGA) zoning map. Planned
developments shall be permitted in all zoning districts, with exception of Public Open Space. The approval of a
planned development shall modify and supersede the regulations of the underlying zoning district, except in the
Page 8 of 57
case of allowable residential density and uses, and the specific design standards within Mason County Code Title
16, Plats and Subdivisions.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.530 Development standards.
The following standards shall govern the interpretation and administration of this section:
(1) Relationship of PD Site to Adjacent Areas. The design of a planned development shall take into account
the relationship of the site to the surrounding areas. The perimeter of the PD shall be so designed as to
minimize undesirable impact of the PD on adjacent properties and, conversely, to minimize undesirable
impact of adjacent land use and development characteristics on the PD.
(2) Site Acreage Minimum. The minimum site shall be one acre.
(3) Minimum Lot Size. The minimum lot size provisions of other sections of the zoning ordinance are
waived in a planned development.
(4) Density. In a PD, the density allowed within the underlying zoning district shall determine the dwelling
unit density of the PD.
(5) Maximum Coverage. Building coverage and development of the site shall not exceed the percentage
permitted by the underlying zone.
(6) Landscaping Required. All common open space shall be landscaped in accordance with the landscaping
plan submitted by the applicant and approved by the hearing examiner. Natural landscape features
which are to be preserved, such as existing trees, drainage ways, rock out‐croppings, etc., may be
included as part of the required setback buffer and landscaping.
(7) Setback and Side Yard Requirements.
(A) Building and parking setbacks along the exterior boundary line of the PD area shall meet the
required setbacks within the underlying zoning district, or, if the abutting properties are
undeveloped, a reduction of up to twenty percent of the minimum required setback is allowed.
In no event shall such setbacks be less than five feet.
(B) Setbacks or Side Yards Between Buildings. The standard setbacks and yard requirements
between buildings may be waived in a PD. Buildings may have common walls and, therefore, built
to the property line as in townhouse construction. Wherever buildings are separated, a minimum
distance of ten feet shall be maintained between such buildings.
(8) Off‐Street Parking. Off‐street parking shall be provided in a PD in the same ratios for types of buildings
and uses as required for the underlying zoning district, and as described in Chapters 17.10 through
17.17.
(9) Commercial developments are subject to binding site plan review procedures as described in the
Mason County Code, Section 17.03.031.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.540 Open space standards.
The following standards shall govern the interpretation of this section:
(1) Common Open Space. Each planned development shall dedicate not less than twenty percent of the
gross land area for common open space for the use of its residents.
Page 9 of 57
(2) Location.
(A) The area proposed for open space shall be within the PD and within reasonable walking distance
of all dwelling units in the PD.
(B) Where practical, the proposed dedicated open space shall be located adjacent to other
established or planned park and recreational areas in adjacent developments, schools, or county
parks; provided, that such dedication would increase the overall benefit to the residents of the
subject PD and conform to other criteria in the section.
(3) Access.
(A) All dwelling units within the PD must be provided legal access to the proposed area for
dedication. Private or common access roads, trees or other landscaping may separate the area
proposed for dedication. However, access should not be blocked by major obstacles such as state
routes, arterial roads, or canyons and/or ravines where pedestrian traits cannot be established.
(B) Areas dedicated for active recreational open space shall have reasonable access from street
frontages. Design measures should accomplish the purposes of access and security.
(4) Types of Open Space.
(A) Land dedicated for open space should be usable for (i) greenbelts that serve as a buffer, using
native vegetation, or an aesthetic amenity such as boulevard trees; (ii) active or passive
recreational activities; or (iii) for protecting environmentally sensitive areas such as wetlands.
(B) Except as provided in subsection (4)(c) or (d) below, thirty percent of the dedicated open space
area shall be suitable for active recreation. The topography, soils, hydrology, and other physical
characteristics of the area proposed for active recreation shall be of such quality as to provide a
dry, obstacle‐free space in a configuration which is suitable for active recreation.
(C) The percentage of active recreational areas may be increased to as high as fifty percent to meet
anticipated recreational needs.
(D) The percentage of active recreational area may be decreased to as low as zero if it is determined
that: (i) inclusion of buffers or environmentally sensitive lands such as wetlands would better
meet the open space needs of the residents of the subdivision; or (ii) meeting the standard would
require detrimental grading or other disturbance of the natural setting.
(5) Structures. Common open space may contain complimentary structures, such as a gazebo or
maintenance equipment shed, and improvements as are necessary and appropriate for the benefit and
enjoyment of residents of the PD, provided that the building coverage of such building or structure
combined with the building coverage of the residential structures shall not exceed the maximum
permitted by the underlying zoning district.
(6) Implementation.
(A) The area proposed for open space shall be dedicated in common to the lot owners within the plat
or to a lot owner's association. Maintenance and operation of the dedicated open space shall be
the responsibility of the lot owners.
(B) The county may choose to accept dedication, maintenance and operation responsibilities when
the area to be dedicated is either one or a combination of the following:
(i) Greater than ten acres;
(ii) Adjacent to an established or future parks or school grounds;
(iii) Is an access to a body of water greater than three acres in size;
Page 10 of 57
(iv) Is an environmentally sensitive area;
(v) If the county feels it is in the public interest to accept dedications.
(C) The dedication shall be identified on the PD.
(7) Improvements. The removal of septic systems, and abandoned cars, construction debris, and other
forms of solid waste within the area proposed for dedication shall be required prior to final approval of
the PD.
(8) Stormwater Detention Facilities. Stormwater detention ponds may be allowed by the county as part of
dedicated open space subject to the following criteria:
(A) The detention pond shall be constructed so as to drain fully when precipitation is not occurring
(i.e., no standing water may be left) unless the pond is designed as an aesthetic amenity.
(B) The side slope of the detention pond shall not exceed thirty‐three percent unless slopes are
existing, natural and covered with vegetation.
(C) If detention facilities are located adjacent to or near a natural, year‐round stream or wetland,
these systems shall be left in natural or near‐natural condition.
(D) The detention area shall be landscaped in a manner that is both aesthetic and able to withstand
the inundation expected.
(E) Use of a dedicated open space area for stormwater detention shall not be acceptable if the
detention area must be fenced or otherwise rendered unsuitable or unavailable for recreation
use during dry weather.
(F) In the case of joint use of open space for detention and recreation, the lot owners or owners'
association shall be responsible for maintenance of the detention facilities.
(9) Rights and Duties. The owners of open space shall have the following rights that may be exercised in
respect of such land, subject to restrictive covenants or other restrictions:
(A) The right to locate recreational facilities, such as tennis courts, swimming pools, picnic tables,
and fireplaces accessory to picnic tables designed to be used exclusively for the use of residents
of the development and their guests;
(B) The right to locate pedestrian paths, bicycle paths and bridle paths;
(C) The right to take whatever measures are reasonably necessary to protect and maintain such land,
or land or property adjacent thereto, or to correct a hazardous condition posing a threat to life or
limb;
(D) The right to conduct agricultural activities, including the selective harvesting of mature trees;
(E) The right to regulate access to or entry on the open space land and duty to maintain such land.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.550 Procedure for initiation—Application—Fee.
Planned development projects may be initiated by any owner or group of owners of property acting jointly,
or as a developer authorized to act as agent for an owner or group of owners. Such application shall be made on
the forms provided by the department, together with a filing fee as established by resolution of the board of
county commissioners.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Page 11 of 57
17.10.560 Application—Supporting documentation.
An application for a planned development shall include the information provided in the Mason County Code,
Title 16, Sections 16.16.040 and 16.16.050. At a minimum, the following items shall be submitted in a written
statement:
(1) The acreage contained within the proposed planned development; the total number of dwelling units
being proposed; and the average number of dwelling units per acre of land;
(2) The number and acreage of each type of dwelling units proposed;
(3) The acreage of open space to be contained in the planned development and the percentage it
represents of the total area;
(4) The total acreage of each type of nonresidential use, including the approximate floor area and type of
commercial and industrial uses.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.570 Public hearing—Criteria for decision.
The application for a planned development shall be heard before the hearing examiner in accordance with
the procedures in Title 15. The hearing examiner's decision to approve or deny the development shall be based on
at least, but not limited to, the following criteria:
(1) Conformance to the Allyn UGA plan;
(2) The proposal's compatibility with the surrounding area or its potential future use; and
(3) The proposal shall be designed to minimize impacts on adjacent properties and, conversely, to
minimize impacts of adjacent land use and development on the proposal.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.580 Appeal.
The decision of the hearing examiner shall be final unless appealed in accordance with the provisions of Title
15.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.590 Implementation.
(a) Building permits and other permits required for the construction or development of property under the
provisions of this chapter shall be issued only when the work to be performed meets the requirements of the
approved planned development.
(b) Amendments to the approved planned development. The hearings examiner may allow changes to the
approved planned development provided the changes are consistent with all applicable county plans and
policies. Such changes shall be considered pursuant to the procedures provided in Title 15.
(c) Minor Administrative Alterations. Once a PD has been reviewed and approved by the hearings examiner, it
shall not be altered unless approved by the community development director or his/her designee upon a
determination that the alteration is not substantial enough to constitute a change to the approved planned
development.
Page 12 of 57
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Article VI. "PF"—Public Facilities Overlay District
17.10.610 Purpose.
This district is intended for the accommodation of needed public facilities within Allyn in accordance with the
Allyn urban growth area plan. Support facilities for infrastructure, utilities and similar capital facilities would be
allowed in this district.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.620 Uses allowed subject to approval of a special use permit per the MCC.
Public and semi‐public essential facilities necessary to the public convenience including:
(1) Airports;
(2) Government buildings;
(3) Educational institutions;
(4) Hospitals, clinics, and sanitariums (excluding animal hospitals and clinics);
(5) Correctional institutions;
(6) Water delivery systems;
(7) Sewer and wastewater treatment and facilities;
(8) Stormwater treatment and facilities;
(9) Public and private utilities as supported by the Allyn subarea plan.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.630 Bulk and dimension standards.
To be determined through approval of a special use permit.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.640 Additional development and design criteria.
(a) There shall be a demonstrated need for the use within the community, which shall not be contrary to public
interest.
(b) The use shall be consistent with the goals and policies of the Allyn Urban Growth Area Plan.
(c) The approval body shall find that the use as proposed will not be detrimental to the health, safety or general
welfare or to private or public improvements and infrastructure.
(d) There shall be adequate attenuation of noise, smoke, odors, traffic and unsightly construction or storage.
(e) There shall be adequate landscaping, yard setbacks and fencing to mitigate the impacts on adjacent
properties and uses.
Page 13 of 57
(f) Modifications to bulk and dimension standards must be based on a demonstrated need for the function of
the use.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.650 Off‐street parking.
Project specific as required by conditions of the special use permit.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.660 Signs.
Project specific as required by conditions of the special use permit.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.670 Development approval.
All development projects in the PF district shall require approval of a special use permit with concurrent site
plan or binding site plan approval consistent with the MCC.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Article VII. "POS"—Public Open Space
17.10.710 Purpose.
The "POS" district is intended to provide areas for essential public uses and facilities necessary to the public
convenience, and in particular to provide for public park, recreational, and open space. Since certain special
property uses have intrinsic characteristics relating to their function or operation which may necessitate buildings
or structures associated with the special property use to exceed predictable height, bulk, and dimensional or other
development standards, those exceeding established standards are reviewed through a special use permit process.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.720 Permitted uses.
Parks, playgrounds, community recreation centers and open space.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.730 Accessory uses.
Accessory uses are allowed in conjunction with permitted uses and those uses approved through a special
use permit.
(1) Restroom, shower and changing rooms;
(2) Storage required for supplies and equipment;
Page 14 of 57
(3) Other property uses which have intrinsic characteristics relating to the function or operation.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.10.740 Uses allowed subject to approval of a special use permit.
Public and semipublic essential facilities necessary to the public convenience including:
(1) Bus stations and transit facilities;
(2) Buildings or structures associated with the special property use, which exceed predictable height, bulk,
dimensional, or other development standards.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Chapter 17.11 RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICTS IN THE ALLYN UGA*
Article I. "R‐1"—Single‐Family Residential District
17.11.110 Purpose.
The purpose of the R‐1 district is to stabilize and retain the character and integrity of existing single‐family
detached dwelling neighborhoods and establish criteria for the development of new residential subdivisions and
neighborhoods.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.120 Allowed uses.
Uses allowed in the R‐1 district shall be as follows:
(1) Single‐family dwellings;
(2) Duplexes;
(3) Commercial child care center.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.130 Accessory uses.
The following use are permitted only as they are accessory to the primary allowed uses and may or may not
require a special license or permit in addition to building permits:
(1) Home occupations, also known as cottage industries, require a special use permit unless they meet the
standards as adopted in Section 17.03.021 of the Mason County Code.
(2) Accessory structures including shops and detached garages (total square footage not exceeding the
square footage of the primary residential structure);
(3) Accessory dwelling unit (as specifically defined in this code);
(4) Family child care center;
Page 15 of 57
(5) Group homes and adult day care facilities (up to six residents plus staff).
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.140 Uses allowed subject to obtaining a special use permit.
(a) Churches;
(b) Schools;
(c) Bed and breakfast inn;
(d) Other essential public facilities;
(e) Private recreation facilities;
(f) Accessory dwelling units (in accordance with MCC Section 17.03.029);
(g) Small scale agricultural activities and buildings;
(h) Livestock limited to one head per acre on a minimum five acre site.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.150 Bulk and dimension standards.
The following standards may be altered without a variance only through use of an overlay zone, PD
regulations as adopted in Article V of Chapter 17.10 or as a Master Development Plan in conformance with
adopted Mason County Regulations. Height and setback standards allow for minor deviations by architectural
treatments such as chimneys, copulas, bay windows, porch covers, and door landings.
Density Max of 4 dwelling units per gross acre
Lot coverage 40% Max lot coverage
Min. lot area SFD = 7,000 net sq. ft.
SFD = Corner Lot 9,000 net sq. ft.
Duplex = 11,000 net square feet.
Lot dimensions Minimum lot frontage width is 60 for interior lots, 70 feet for corner lots and 40 feet for cul‐
de‐sac and curve lots, and 20 feet for flag lots, provided that the minimum lot width is
reached and maintained at a setback of 20 feet.
Height The maximum height of structures in the district shall be as follows:
Primary building: 35 feet (25 feet east of SR 3) ‐
Accessory Structure: 20 feet.
Setbacks Yard setbacks refer to the setback of structures (over two feet in height) from the property
line. A roof overhang, chimneys, copulas, bay windows, porch covers and door landings are
allowed to project a maximum of two feet into a minimum setback. Additional standards for
setbacks in special situations are in Section 17.10.460.
Front yard 20 feet. 10 feet on cul‐de‐sacs as long as the average minimum setback is 20 feet. Storage
sheds are not permitted within a front yard setback
Side yard 5 feet, or less with review and approval of an administrative building variance, see Section
17.10.460.
Street side yard 10 feet.
Rear yard 20 feet.
Storage sheds
not larger than
5 feet.
Page 16 of 57
120‐sq. ft. in
area or ten feet
in height
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. C, 1‐18‐2022)
17.11.160 Parking.
Per Chapter 17.14, with additional requirements in Section 17.10.490 Vehicle parking.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.170 Development and design criteria.
(Reserved)
Article II. "R‐1R"—Residential‐Recreational District
17.11.210 Purpose.
The purpose of the R‐1R district is to establish minimum guidelines and regulations for the undeveloped
areas of Lakeland Village. The intent is to insure the continuance of the character and integrity of existing
residential neighborhoods.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.220 Allowed uses.
Uses allowed in the R‐1R district shall be as follows:
(1) Single‐family dwellings;
(2) Duplex dwellings;
(3) Triplex dwellings;
(4) Multifamily;
(5) Golf courses and golf and country club related facilities;
(6) Public and private parks.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.230 Accessory uses.
The following uses are permitted only as they are accessory to the primary allowed uses and may or may not
require a special license or permit in addition to building permits:
(1) Well heads and water treatment facilities and other utility facilities;
(2) Common open space and recreation facilities;
Page 17 of 57
(3) Residential accessory uses and structures.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.240 Uses allowed subject to obtaining a special use permit.
(a) Bed and breakfast inn;
(b) Other essential public facilities;
(c) Assisted living facilities;
(d) Small‐scale agricultural activities and buildings with livestock limited to horses or cattle on a minimum five
acre site.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.250 Bulk and dimension standards.
The following standards may be altered without a variance only through use of an overlay zone, PD
regulations as adopted in Article V of Chapter 17.10 or as a Master Development Plan in conformance with
adopted Mason County Regulations. Height and setback standards allow for minor deviations by architectural
treatments such as chimneys, copulas, bay windows, porch covers, and door landings.
Density Maximum of 5 dwelling units per gross acre
Lot coverage 50% maximum lot coverage for single‐family dwellings.
75% maximum lot coverage for duplexes.
Not applicable to triplexes or multifamily.
Min. lot area. Single‐family = 6,000 net square feet.
Single‐family on a corner lot = 7,500 net square feet.
Duplex = 10,000 net square feet.
Lot dimensions Minimum lot frontage width is 60 for interior lots, 70 feet for corner lots and 40 feet for
cul‐de‐sac and curve lots, and 20 feet for flag lots.
Height The maximum height of structures in the district shall be 35 feet.
Setbacks Yard setbacks refer to the setback of single‐family dwellings and duplexes from the
property line. A 2‐foot roof eave overhang is allowed in the setback.
Front yard 20 feet. 10 feet on cul‐de‐sacs as long as the average minimum setback is 20 feet.
Side yard 5 feet, or less with review and approval of an administrative building variance, see
Section 17.10.460.
Street side yard 10 feet
Rear yard 20 feet.
Triplexes/Multifamily
and Cluster
Development
15 feet from county road right‐of‐way, 5 feet from all other lot lines including golf
courses.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. C, 1‐18‐2022)
17.11.260 Parking.
Reference Chapter 17.14.
Page 18 of 57
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.270 Development and design criteria.
(Reserved)
Article IV. "R‐2"—Medium Density Multifamily Residential District
17.11.410 Purpose.
The purpose of the R‐2 district is to provide for medium density multifamily and single‐family attached
residential dwellings with building scale, yards, and setbacks reflecting the intensity of development located
proximate to commercial and public services and transit. The R‐2 district provides a buffer between more intense
uses and single‐family neighborhoods.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.420 Allowed uses.
(a) Single‐family dwelling;
(b) Duplexes;
(c) Triplexes;
(d) Multifamily.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.430 Accessory uses.
(a) Home occupations, also known as cottage industries, require a special use permit unless they meet the
standards as adopted in Section 17.03.021 of the Mason County Code.
(b) Accessory structures including shops and detached garages (total square footage not exceeding fifty percent
of the square footage of the primary residential structure, or ten percent of the net parcel area, whichever is
greater).
(c) Accessory dwelling unit (as specifically defined in this code).
(d) Common facilities of an apartment, condominium, or townhouse development, such as recreational areas,
club houses, and laundry facilities.
(e) Family child care center.
(f) Group homes (up to six residents plus staff).
(g) Well heads and water treatment facilities and other public utilities.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.440 Use allowed subject to obtaining a special use permit.
(a) Schools.
Page 19 of 57
(b) Churches.
(c) Parks.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.450 Bulk and dimension standards.
The following standards may be altered without a variance only through use of an overlay zone, PD
regulations as adopted in Article V of Chapter 17.10 or as a master development plan in conformance with
adopted Mason County regulations. Height and setback standards allow for minor deviations of up, to three feet as
long a minimum three‐foot setback is maintained, by architectural treatments such as chimneys, copulas, bay
windows, entry covers and door landings.
Density Max of 10 dwelling units per gross acre.
Lot coverage 60% max lot coverage
Min. lot area Interior lot: 4,800 net sq. ft.
Corner lot: 9,600 net sq. ft.
Lot dimensions Minimum lot frontage width is 60 for interior lots, 70 feet for corner lots and 40 feet for cul‐
de‐sac and curve lots, and 20 feet for flag lots, provided that the minimum lot width is
reached and maintained at a setback of 20 feet.
Height Primary building: 35 feet (25 feet east of SR 3)
Accessory structure: 20 feet.
Setbacks Yard setbacks refer to the setback of structures from the property line.
Additional standards for setbacks in special situations are in Section 17.10.460.
Front yard 15 feet. 10 feet on cul‐de‐sacs as long as the average setback is 15 feet.
Side yard 5 feet, or less with review and approval of an administrative building variance, see Section
17.10.460.
Street side yard 8 feet
Rear yard 10 feet. In cases when the rear yard abuts a right‐of‐way, the primary structure setback shall
be 20 feet.
Storage sheds not larger than 120‐sq. ft. in area, 5 feet.
Garage doors 20 feet with roll‐up door, or 5 feet from an alley or private drive.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. C, 1‐18‐2022)
17.11.460 Off‐street parking.
See also Chapter 17.14 and Section 17.10.490 Vehicle parking for additional requirements.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.470 Additional development and design criteria.
(Reserved)
Article V. "R‐3"—High Density Multifamily Residential District
Page 20 of 57
17.11.510 Purpose.
The purpose and function of the R‐3 District is to allow for the development of dense multifamily apartment
rental housing in integrated development projects with on‐site management, recreation amenities, parking and
open space. This district is typically located near services and transit routes and serves to promote affordable
family housing as well as housing for single persons and for young couples entering the housing market.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.520 Allowed uses.
(a) Residential apartments complexes of at least ten units.
(b) Attached single‐family residential projects of at least ten units.
(c) Group homes and residential care facilities: twelve or fewer.
(d) Artist studios.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.530 Accessory uses.
(a) Common facilities of an apartment, condominium, or townhouse development, such as recreational areas,
playgrounds, club houses, and laundry facilities.
(b) Parking lots and garages.
(c) Storage units.
(d) Family day care.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.540 Uses allowed subject to obtaining a special use permit.
(a) Churches.
(b) Fraternal and community service clubs.
(c) Public schools.
(d) Private academic schools.
(e) Commercial child care center.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.550 Bulk and dimension standards.
The following standards may be altered without a variance only through use of an overlay zone, PD
regulations as adopted in Article V of Chapter 17.10 or as a master development plan in conformance with
adopted Mason County regulations. Height and setback standards allow for minor deviations by architectural
treatments such as chimneys, copulas, bay windows, entry covers, and door landings.
Density Maximum of 20 dwelling units per net acre.
Page 21 of 57
Lot coverage 70% maximum lot coverage
Min. lot area Interior lot 21,750 net sq. ft.
Corner Lot 21,750 net sq. ft.
Lot dimensions Minimum lot width is 50 for interior lots, 60 feet for corner lots and 40 feet for cul‐de‐sac
and curve lots, provided that the minimum lot width is reached and maintained at a setback
of 20 feet.
Lots shall be regular in shape with side property lines roughly parallel.
Height Primary building: 35 feet, or as reviewed by special use permit.
Setbacks Yard setbacks refer to the setback of structures from the property line. Where a property
abuts another zone district with a more restrictive setback requirement, the most restrictive
setback shall apply. Additional standards for setbacks in special situations are in Section
17.10.460.
Front yard 10 feet
Side yard 5 feet, or less with review and approval of an administrative building variance, see Section
17.10.460.
Street side yard 7 feet
Rear yard 10 feet
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007; Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Atts. A, C, 1‐18‐2022)
17.11.560 Off‐street parking.
See Chapter 17.14 and Section 17.10.490 Vehicle Parking for additional requirements.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.570 Additional development and design criteria.
(Reserved)
17.11.580 Approval of plans.
In addition to other required permits all developments in the R‐3 district shall require binding site plan
approval.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Article VI. "MHP"—Mobile Home Park Overlay District
17.11.610 Purpose.
The purpose of the mobile home park overlay district is to provide for accommodation of mobile homes in
planned, integrated, mobile home parks so as to protect the health, safety and welfare of the community. The
"MHP" district is a residential zone and may be overlaid over any residentially zoned district.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Page 22 of 57
17.11.620 Permitted uses.
All uses in a mobile home park shall require a mobile home park permit.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.630 Accessory uses.
Accessory uses shall be allowed as permitted in an approved mobile home park permit.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.640 Uses permitted subject to obtaining a mobile home park permit.
(a) Mobile home parks.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.650 Binding site plan required.
(a) A preliminary binding site plan shall be approved concurrently with a mobile home park permit for a mobile
home park.
(b) A final binding site plan shall be recorded prior to occupancy of a mobile home park.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.660 Bulk and dimension standards.
Park size The minimum area for a mobile home park shall be 3 acres.
Space size The size of individual mobile home spaces shall be as provided in Chapter
16.22 Mobile Homes and Trailer Parks.
Height limit 25 feet
Setbacks Additional standards for setbacks in special situations are in Section
17.10.460.
Perimeter There shall be a 20 foot landscaped setback around the perimeter of the
park
Individual units Individual dwelling units and accessory structures shall be setback from
space lines as required by Chapter 16.22 Mobile Homes and Trailer Parks.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.670 Additional development and design criteria.
The establishment or expansion of a mobile home park shall be subject to approval of a mobile home park
permit. When different development standards are applicable from other regulations (e.g., the shoreline master
program) the more restrictive shall apply.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Page 23 of 57
17.11.680 Parking.
In addition to the requirements and standards of Chapter 17.14 the following shall apply:
Spaces required:
*2 spaces per each dwelling unit (may be tandem).
*.5 guest spaces per dwelling unit (spread throughout park).
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.690 Signs.
A sign program shall be submitted for approval concurrently with the application for a mobile home park
permit.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Article VII. "R‐1P"—Residential‐Platted District
17.11.710 Purpose.
The purpose of the R‐ 1P district is to stabilize and retain the character and integrity of existing residential
neighborhood of the Lake Land Village plat. The area has been platted but is still being developed with a mix of
single‐family and small multifamily dwellings built around or near the golf courses, takes, and other amenities
provided by the development.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.720 Allowed uses.
Uses allowed in the R‐1P district shall be as follows:
(1) Single‐family dwellings.
(2) Duplexes and multifamily dwellings including condominiums.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.730 Accessory uses.
The following use are permitted only as they are accessory to the primary allowed uses and may or may not
require a special license or permit in addition to building permits:
(1) Home occupations, also known as cottage industries, require a special use permit unless they meet the
standards as adopted in Section 17.03.021 of the Mason County Code.
(2) Accessory structures including shops and detached garages (total square footage not exceeding the
square footage of the primary residential structure).
(3) Accessory dwelling unit (as specifically defined in this code).
(4) Family child care center.
Page 24 of 57
(5) Group homes (up to six residents plus staff).
(6) Well heads and water treatment facilities and other utility facilities.
(7) Common open space and recreation facilities.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.740 Uses allowed subject to obtaining a special use permit.
(a) Churches.
(b) Schools.
(c) Commercial child care center.
(d) Bed and breakfast inn.
(e) Other essential public facilities.
(f) Accessory dwelling units (in accordance with MCC Section 17.03.029).
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.750 Bulk and dimension standards.
The following standards may be altered without a variance only through use of an overlay zone, PD
regulations as adopted in Article V of Chapter 17.10 or as a master development plan in conformance with
adopted Mason County regulations. Height and setback standards allow for minor deviations by architectural
treatments such as chimneys, copulas, bay windows, porch covers, and door landings.
Density Max of 6 dwelling units per gross acre
Lot coverage 40% Max lot coverage for single‐family
Min. lot area SFD = 7,000 net sq. ft.
SFD = Corner lot 9,000 sq. ft.
Duplex= 11,000 net sq. ft.
Lot dimensions Minimum lot frontage width is 60 for interior lots, 70 feet for corner lots,
20 foot frontage for flag lots, and 40 feet for cul‐de‐sacs and curved lots.
Height The maximum height of structures in the district shall be as follows:
Primary building: 35 feet
Accessory structure: 20 feet.
Setbacks Yard setbacks refer to the setback of structures (over two feet in height)
from the property line. A 2‐foot roof eave overhang is allowed in the
setback. Additional standards for setbacks in special situations are in
Section 17.10.460.
Front yard 20 feet, 10 feet on cul‐de‐sacs as long as the average minimum setback is
20 feet.
Side yard 5 feet, or less with review and approval of an administrative building
variance, see Section 17.10.460.
Storage sheds not larger than 120‐
sq. ft. in area
5 feet
Street side yard 10 feet
Rear yard Original construction and elevated decks 20 feet.
Single story addition 10 feet unless rear yard abuts a right‐of‐way.
Page 25 of 57
Garage doors 25 feet/ 20 feet for roll‐up door.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. C, 1‐18‐2022)
17.11.760 Parking.
Per Chapter 17.14, with additional requirements in Section 17.10.490 Vehicle parking.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.11.770 Development and design criteria.
(Reserved)
Chapter 17.12 COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICTS IN THE ALLYN UGA*
Article I. "VC"—Village Commercial District
17.12.110 Purpose.
The village commercial district is a pedestrian and transit oriented mixed use district primarily designed as a
location for neighborhood, community wide and tourist retail, office, restaurant, entertainment, service uses,
including transient accommodations, and residential uses. The district will provide opportunities for transit routes
and stops and to provide shared parking opportunities. Physically the district will retain the pedestrian oriented
scale and intensity of use of the rest of the village core area. Because of its nature the village commercial district
zone may only be located in the village center.
(1) Goals of the district are:
(A) Promote private development and uses, which complement public streetscape, infrastructure
and governmental improvements and uses;
(B) Foster civic pride in the area and thereby stabilize and improve property values and stimulate
business investment;
(C) Encourage new uses and services consistent with the downtown, pedestrian oriented character
of the area to achieve a viable and sustainable commercial district;
(D) Prohibit new uses that are incompatible with the function and purpose of the district and
encourage the relocation to other locations in the community, of existing nonconforming uses;
(E) Encourage efficient land use and investment in the rehabilitation, expansion and use of existing
structures and in‐fill sites through increased zoning densities and parking allowances and
flexibility;
(F) Encourage the concept of "mixed" commercial, residential and civic uses in order to, provide
affordable housing opportunities, provide a diverse market for retail goods and services, promote
alternative modes of transportation, maximize the use of public infrastructure investments and
foster a greater sense of "neighborhood" within the district;
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(G) Encourage a sense of "ownership" of the village core within all members of the community as the
social and cultural heart of the village by providing opportunities for cultural and celebratory
events and development of public spaces and buildings;
(H) Promote a physical environment through architectural, streetscape and open space
improvements that are evocative of the historic and natural character of the community;
(I) Provide shared parking opportunities;
(J) Promote tourist oriented market opportunities including water‐related activities.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
(Ord. No. 10‐17, Att. A, 3‐14‐2017; Ord. No. 25‐17, Att. A, 4‐25‐2017)
17.12.120 Permitted uses.
The following uses, subject to applicable licensing and development regulations, shall be allowed outright
within the "VC" district:
(1) Alcoholic beverage sales: package stores and wine shops;
(2) Antique shops;
(3) Appliance and communication equipment repair shop and/or sales;
(4) Art galleries and artist studios;
(5) Art and craft supplies, retail;
(6) Vehicle parts store;
(76) Bakery, with on site sales;
(87) Banks and financial institutions; Bicycle shops;
(98) Barbers and beauty shops; Book stores;
(109) Bicycle shops; Banks and financial institutions;
(1110) Book stores; Barbers and beauty shops;
(1211) Camera shop;
(1312) Catering;
(1413) Clothing sales and rentals and shoe stores;
(5114) Dance and music studios.
(15) Delicatessen;
(16) Dry cleaners and laundries not including laundromats;
(17) Duplex (restricted to parcels one‐half acre or less);
(18) Fabric and yarn goods;
(19) Florists;
(20) Food stores, retail including groceries, bakers, butchers, health, candy;
Page 27 of 57
(21) Furniture stores;
(22) Grocery stores;
(23) Hardware stores; Hotels/motels;
(24) Hotels/motels; Household fixtures including plumbing, lighting, heating/cooling;
(25) Hobby shops; Hardware stores;
(26) Hobby shops; Household fixtures including plumbing, lighting, heating/cooling;
(27) Jewelry store;
(28) Locksmith;
(29) Medical offices, clinics, equipment and services (i.e. labs);
(30) Multi‐family dwelling units (minimum four units);
(31) Music stores, recordings and instruments;
(32) Offices;
(33) Paint and glass shops;
(34) Pharmacy, dispensing;
(35) Photographic studio;
(36) Printing, publishing and reproduction;
(37) Radio and television broadcasting station;
(38) Residential (one or more) attached to any other permitted non‐residential use;
(39) Restaurants, cafes and food stands: sit down and walk up;
(40) Retail shops not otherwise named similar in size, character and impacts;
(41) Second hand stores and pawn shops;
(42) Sports related service businesses such as kayak rentals, boat tours, scuba instruction;
(43) Sporting goods store including equipment rental and repair;
(44) Stationary and office supply stores;
(45) Toy stores;
(46) Theater, live stage;
(47) Theater, motion picture, one screen and no more than two hundred fifty seats;
(48) Tourism related retail and service businesses such as travel, tour and event agencies;
(49) Transit stops;
(50) Triplex (restricted to parcels three‐quarter acre or less);
(51) Vehicle parts store.
(51) Dance and music studios.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
(Ord. No. 10‐17, Att. A, 3‐14‐2017; Ord. No. 25‐17, Att. A, 4‐25‐2017; Ord. No. 85‐18, Att. A, 12‐4‐2018)
Page 28 of 57
17.12.130 Accessory uses.
The following uses shall be permitted as ancillary to permitted uses or uses obtaining a special use permit in
the district and shall not be established independent of the primary use:
(1) Alcoholic beverage sales: on‐site, in association with full menu food uses;
(2) Merchandise repair excluding vehicles;
(3) Micro brewery;
(4) Hotel lounge;
(5) Parking of one delivery vehicle;
(6) Dance floors;
(7) Music and electronic game machines up to a total of four;
(8) Live entertainment except between the hours of one‐thirty a.m. and seven a.m.;
(9) Public sidewalk food and merchandise vendors including Espresso carts and newsstands with written
consent of all adjacent landowners.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.140 Use permitted subject to obtaining a special use permit.
The following uses, subject to applicable licensing and development regulations, shall be allowed within the
"village commercial" district only with approval of a special use permit except that a special use permit shall not be
required where any of the listed uses are included in an approved Planned Development. Consideration shall be
given to the purpose and development standards of the district including any adopted design guidelines. The
design of the site, structure, and building facade shall be included in the special use permit review which shall
consider the widths and heights typically found in the neighboring commercial development to determine the
compatibility of the proposal with the existing development. That compatibility might be accomplished through
indenting portions of the structure to separate portions of the facade, using a variety of architectural styles and
building materials, orienting the building so that larger areas of facade are not visible from public ways or parking
areas, or by similar techniques.
(1) Antique mallts over ten thousand sq. ft.
(2) Bars and taverns other than those associated with full menu food service.
(3) Churches.
(4) Veterinary clinics.
(5) Commercial parking lots not associated with an on‐site use.
(6) Day care center.
(7) Drive‐through sales, service, pick‐up or delivery.
(8) Gasoline retail sales.
(9) Gyms, fitness and aerobic studios.
(10) Laundromats.
(11) Private transportation depot.
Page 29 of 57
(12) Schools.
(13) Private recreation facilities including game arcades, batting cages, shooting galleries and skating rinks.
(14) Outdoor storage of merchandise.
(15) Motorized vehicle repair.
(16) Assisted Living Facilities.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.150 Bulk and dimension standards.
Minimum lot area 9,600 sq. ft.
Maximum height The maximum height of any structure in the "VC"
district shall be 35 feet, or as reviewed by special use
permit (not to exceed 25 feet East of SR 3), except
that church spires, bell towers, chimneys and other
architectural features may exceed the height limit by
50% and communication facilities by as much as
permitted through approval of a special use permit.
Minimum setbacks:
Front property line 10 ft
Side and back 5 ft
Additional setbacks may be required to provide line of site clearance for vehicle drivers for the purpose of
public safety.
Maximum lot coverage There shall be no maximum lot coverage standard in
the "VC" district.
Floor area ratio There is no maximum floor area ratio and there shall
be a minimum ratio of 5:1.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007; Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. A, 1‐18‐2022)
17.12.160 Additional development and design criteria.
Development criteria are established to ensure compatibility of uses permitted within the district, to
encourage good building and landscaping design, and to ensure the protection of the public health, safety and
general welfare. In addition to development regulations found elsewhere in this title the following standards shall
apply to development projects within the "VC" district. Additional standards for setbacks are in Section 17.10.460.
(1) General criteria.
(A) Parking. Required parking for the "VC" district shall be as stipulated in Chapter 17.14 "Off‐Street
Parking" of this title.
(B) Signs. Private signage shall be allowed as stipulated in Chapter 17.15, "Signs" of this title.
(C) Trash. Exterior trash containers shall be located within enclosures matching design criteria on file
with the building and public works department except where placed outside at a designated
location for collection the same day as the collection is scheduled.
(D) Storage. All exterior storage shall be screened from view behind solid walls or fences no greater
than eight feet in height.
Page 30 of 57
(E) Fencing. Fencing shall be decorative and compatible in design and integrated with architecture of
the associated use. Fences, except for storage areas, shall be no more than six feet in height and
shall not obstruct line of sight clearance or safety exiting.
(F) The address of all buildings and individual units shall be displayed on the exterior of the building,
including on alley frontages, in a manner that allows for easy identification by the public and
emergency response personnel.
(G) Entries. Each building and commercial units within buildings, shall have at least one primary entry
on any street frontage unless units with a building share a common entry from which the unit
may be accessed during all business hours. Entries shall be clearly defined, oriented to pedestrian
travel ways and away from vehicle driveways. Entries shall be provided with weather protection.
(H) Structures shall be located proximate to the street to promote store front display, pedestrian
activity and a harmonious streetscape while leaving opportunities to create space between
building tells and the public sidewalk for exterior uses, sign displays, exterior seating,
landscaping, architectural interest such as cantilevered second stories, canopies and esplanades
and to provide locations for public art and information.
(I) All electrical, mechanical and plumbing equipment, including roof equipment, and appurtenances
shall be screened from view or otherwise architecturally treated except those required for safety
purposes.
(J) Architecture and aesthetics. (Reserved).
(2) Commercial.
(A) All street doors shall be for pedestrian access only.
(B) Loading areas. Loading or pick‐up of merchandise or materials shall be restricted to alleyways or
designated on‐site loading areas.
(C) Outdoor display of sales of merchandise. The outdoor sale or display of merchandise, whether
on‐site or on public property or right‐of‐way, shall only be allowed as permitted under guidelines
approved by the county board of commissioners.
(D) Canopies, signs, balconies and other architectural projections may encroach into the public right‐
of‐way with approval of an encroachment permit by the public works director and when an
overhead clearance of a minimum of eight feet is maintained.
(E) Ground floor frontages shall be provided with large framed display windows above a height of
three feet so that at least fifty percent of the frontage wall is transparent between a height of
three feet and below eight feet.
(3) Residential. Required residential parking shall be provided on site.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
(Ord. No. 10‐17, Att. A, 3‐14‐2017; Ord. No. 25‐17, Att. A, 4‐25‐2017)
17.12.170 Signs.
See Chapter 17.15.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Page 31 of 57
17.12.180 Off‐street parking.
See Chapter 17.14.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Article II. "T"—Tourist Commercial Overlay District
17.12.210 Purpose.
The "tourist commercial" district is an overlay district limited in size and location as dictated by its function. It
may only overlay the "village commercial" district. The purpose of "tourist commercial" district is to provide
through development and design controls and use limitations a mixed recreation, cultural and commercial district
to enhance and promote the economic revitalization of Allyn's historic central business district. The intent is the
creation of an attractive pedestrian oriented commercial and recreation district enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
Goals of the district are:
(1) Promote private development and uses, which complement and are integrated with public streetscape
open spaces and other governmental improvements and uses;
(2) Foster civic pride in the area and thereby stabilize and improve property values and stimulate
investment;
(3) Encourage new uses and services consistent with the tourist, pedestrian oriented and active outdoor
character of the area to achieve a viable and sustainable commercial district;
(4) Prohibit new uses that are incompatible with the function and purpose of the district and encourage
the relocation, to other locations within the community, of nonconforming uses;
(5) Encourage efficient land use and investment in the rehabilitation, expansion and use of existing
structures and in‐fill sites through flexible development and parking standards;
(6) Encourage the concept of pedestrian oriented development to allow easy and safe pedestrian access
throughout the district, between properties and businesses and to adjoining districts through
thoughtful design of public improvements and private buildings and sites, the development of an
attractive and stimulating streetscape and pedestrian and bike trails and paths;
(7) Enhance the pedestrian experience and safety as well as make local merchandising more effective by
providing a built environment that will slow traffic down while maintaining through traffic and delivery
opportunities;
(8) Promote alternative modes of transportation, maximize the use of public infrastructure investments,
better design and foster a greater sense of "neighborhood" within the district;
(9) Encourage a sense of "ownership" of the district within all members of the community;
(10) Promote a physical environment through architectural, streetscape and open space improvements that
are evocative of the historic, rural and natural character of the community particularly in relation to
the waterfront;
(11) Provide an attractive "destination" for tourists and other visitors to the region and a "gathering place"
for locals;
(12) "Capture" a greater share of the drive by traffic on SR 3 and get visitors "out of their cars" and into
shops;
Page 32 of 57
(13) Provide for adequate attractive, safe and accessible shared and public parking areas, which connect
rather than divide uses and activities and allow a maximum non‐vehicle development of property;
(14) Provide a location for community wide social and cultural events and celebrations by reinforcing
streets and parks as public places and the development of public and semipublic space;
(15) Maximize the use of public infrastructure, spaces and property to promote and enhance business
development and activity.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.220 Permitted uses.
The following uses, subject to applicable licensing and development regulations, shall be permitted within
the "tourist commercial" district:
(1) Alcoholic beverage sales: package stores and wine shops;
(2) Antique shops;
(3) Art galleries and artist studios;
(4) Art and craft supplies, retail;
(5) Bakery, with on site sales;
(6) Bicycle shops;
(7) Book stores;
(8) Barbers and beauty shops;
(9) Camera shop;
(10) Catering;
(11) Clothing sales and rentals and shoe stores;
(12) Delicatessen;
(13) Florists;
(14) Food stores, retail including groceries, bakers, butchers, health, candy;
(15) Hotels/motels;
(16) Hobby shops;
(17) Jewelry store;
(18) Offices;
(19) Music stores, recordings and instruments;
(20) Photographic studio;
(21) Restaurants, cafes and food stands: sit down and walk up;
(22) Retail shops not otherwise named similar in size, character and impacts;
(23) Sports related service businesses such as kayak rentals, boat tours, scuba instruction;
(24) Sporting goods store including equipment rental and repair;
(25) Toy stores;
Page 33 of 57
(26) Theater, live stage;
(27) Theater, motion picture, one screen and no more than two hundred fifty seats;
(28) Tourism related retail and service businesses such as travel, tour and event agencies.
Due to the unique nature of the "tourist commercial" overlay district, the following are not allowed:
(1) Auto sales;
(2) Auto repair and service uses;
(3) Outdoor storage yards;
(4) Mortuary services;
(5) Drive through sales, service, pick‐up, or delivery, but not including a drive through espresso stand;
(6) Veterinary Clinic;
(7) Laundromats;
(8) Manufacturing and fabrication processes except for those that are compatible with tourism and
recreational activities.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.230 Accessory uses.
(a) Alcoholic beverage sates: on‐site, in association with food uses.
(b) Merchandise repair.
(c) Micro brewery.
(d) Hotel lounge.
(e) Parking of one delivery vehicle.
(f) Dance floors.
(g) Music and electronic game machines up to a total of four.
(h) Live entertainment except between the hours of one‐thirty a.m. and seven a.m.
(i) Public sidewalk food and merchandise vendors including Espresso carts and newsstands with written consent
of all adjacent landowners.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.240 Uses allowed subject to obtaining a special use permit.
(a) Bars and taverns other than those associated with full menu food service.
(b) Churches.
(c) Commercial parking lots not associated with an on‐site use.
(d) Day care.
(e) Gyms, fitness and aerobic studios.
(f) Private transportation depot.
Page 34 of 57
(g) Schools.
(h) Private recreation facilities including game arcades, batting cages, shooting galleries.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.250 Bulk and dimension standards.
Same as for "village commercial" district except as follows:
Height On the shore side of SR 3 a maximum of 25 feet.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.260 Additional development and design criteria.
Same as for "village commercial" district as well as:
(1) Comply with any design guidelines for district as adopted by board of commissioners.
(2) As a condition of permit approval easements may be required for utilities, vehicle and pedestrian
access, drainage and views, as are determined to be necessary to meet the goals of the district stated
above.
(3) Exterior social spaces shall be provided as part of project design.
(4) Compliance with state handicap access requirements shall include maintenance of travel way
standards to allow complete access throughout the district including from property to property and
from all parking lots to common travel ways.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.270 Signs.
See Chapter 17.15.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.280 Off‐street parking.
In addition to the requirements of Chapter 17.14 the following standards shall apply in the "tourist
commercial" overlay district:
(1) Parking lots shall be pedestrian friendly and allow pedestrian and vehicle access between parking lots
on adjacent properties.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Article III. "HC"—Highway Commercial District
Page 35 of 57
17.12.310 Purpose.
The purpose of the highway commercial district is to provide a zone for vehicle oriented, community wide or
sub‐regional, retail shopping uses and integrated shopping centers located outside of the village center with
frontage on and direct access from a major arterial road.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.320 Permitted uses.
Permitted uses in the HC zone consist of retail, service, office, dining and entertainment uses to the general
public that take place inside a completely enclosed building in an integrated shopping center or as otherwise
permitted by this title. (See 17.12.340) Such uses include:
(1) Apparel stores;
(2) Appliance stores;
(3) Art galleries;
(4) Banks and lending institutions;
(5) Bicycle shops;
(6) Book stores;
(7) Camera shops;
(8) Department stores;
(9) Drug stores and pharmacies;
(10) Food stores, including bakeries with on site sates, candy shops and health foods;
(11) Furniture and office equipment stores;
(12) Hardware stores;
(13) Hobby shops and art supplies;
(14) Jewelry stores;
(15) Music and musical instrument stores;
(16) Offices;
(17) Restaurants, sit down;
(18) Sporting goods stores;
(19) Toy shops;
(20) Supermarkets;
(21) Variety stores.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.330 Accessory uses.
(a) Minor outdoor display of merchandise.
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(b) Vending machines, screened from view.
(c) Minor recycling facilities.
(d) Transit stops.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.340 Use allowed subject to a special use permit.
Due to their potential negative impacts on adjacent uses and public improvements the following uses, and
similar uses, shall require approval of a special use permit:
(1) Vehicle drive through lanes;
(2) Game arcades;
(3) Movie and stage theaters;
(4) Pet shops;
(5) Gas stations;
(6) Hotels and motels;
(7) Veterinarian offices;
(8) Motor vehicle sales, rental, repair or service;
(9) On site liquor sales not in conjunction with a restaurant;
(10) Bars and night clubs;
(11) Dance clubs;
(12) Churches;
(13) Mortuaries;
(14) Skating rinks and similar active entertainment uses;
(15) Major recycling facilities.
Approval of a special use permit shall consider hours of operation, proximity of existing and future adjacent
uses, vehicle access, circulation and parking demand, concentrations of similar uses, screening of unsightly
features and on‐site private security.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.350 Bulk and dimension standards.
Maximum height 35 feet, or as reviewed by special use permit.
Maximum lot coverage (building, parking, and
impervious surfaces)
80%
Setbacks 20 foot landscaped perimeter setback except may be
reduced to 5 feet where site abuts another
commercial site. Additional standards for setbacks in
special situations are in Section 17.10.460.
Page 37 of 57
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007; Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. A, 1‐18‐2022)
17.12.360 Additional development and design criteria.
(Reserved)
17.12.370 Off‐street parking.
Per Chapter 17.14, Off‐Street Parking.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.380 Signs.
Per Chapter 17.15, Signs.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.390 Development approval.
In addition to other requirements, all development in the "HC" district shall require site plan approval except
where a binding site plan is already required.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Article IV. "BP"—Business Park
17.12.410 Purpose.
The purpose of the business park district is to provide a zone for office, professional services, and light
manufacturing business development. To promote a "campus" atmosphere that attracts business and employers
while minimizing potential impacts such as noise, odors, light or glare, or significant adverse visual impacts.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.420 Permitted uses.
(a) Appliance repair.
(b) Furniture and major appliance sales.
(c) Home furnishing sales.
(d) Home improvement centers.
(e) Printing and publishing.
(f) Offices.
(g) Medical clinics and other medical support services.
(h) Health clubs and aerobic facilities.
Page 38 of 57
(i) Research and Development (R & D) facilities.
(j) Light manufacturing.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.430 Accessory uses.
(a) Vehicle fleet parking.
(b) Other uses ancillary to the primary permitted use.
(c) Common open space, public traits, viewing areas, and similar uses when ancillary to the primary use.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.440 Use allowed subject to a special use permit.
(a) Outdoor storage, when screened.
(b) Day care and temporary assisted care.
(c) Community utility and infrastructure.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.450 Bulk and dimension standards.
Minimum lot area 19,200 sq. ft.
Maximum lot coverage (building, parking, and impervious surfaces) = 90%
Maximum height limit 35 feet, or as reviewed by special use permit.
Minimum setbacks Additional standards for setbacks in special situations
are in Section 17.10.460.
Front 20 foot landscaped setback.
Side and rear 10 foot landscaped setback from non‐residential and
20 foot from residential
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007; Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. A, 1‐18‐2022)
17.12.460 Additional development and design criteria.
(Reserved)
17.12.470 Off‐street parking.
Per Chapter 17.14, Off‐Street Parking.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.480 Signs.
Per Chapter 17.15, Signs.
Page 39 of 57
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.12.490 Development approval.
All development projects in the BP district shall require approval of a binding site plan, in conformance with
Mason County Code, Section 17.03.031.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Chapter 17.14 OFF‐STREET PARKING IN THE ALLYN UGA*
17.14.010 Intent and purpose.
(a) The purpose and intent of these off ‐street parking regulations is to:
(1) Relieve congestion and provide for safe movement of traffic along public streets;
(2) To promote the general welfare and convenience and prosperity of residential, commercial and
manufacturing developments which depend on the availability of off‐street parking facilities;
(3) To protect adjacent properties and neighborhoods from intrusion of vehicular traffic and parking
congestion generated by developments with inadequate parking;
(4) To promote the general business climate through safe, pedestrian friendly, and environmentally
sensitive and energy efficient lighting, for example:
(A) Downward directed lighting that does not glare into adjoining areas,
(B) Signing and design of parking lots which provides attractive and functional landscape areas,
addresses stormwater management issues, complements and enhances adjacent businesses, and
provides for public safety through driveway design and location criteria and the ingress and
egress from public streets.
(b) For the purposes of this chapter recreational vehicle shall refer to all motor homes, campers, utility trailers,
living trailers, boat trailers and similar vehicles. On‐street parking and the use of the public rights‐of‐way are
regulated by Title 10 of the Mason County Code.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.020 Application.
(a) Except as otherwise allowed by this chapter, off‐street parking spaces, covered spaces, drive through spaces,
loading spaces, handicapped accessible spaces, bicycle spaces and parking lots as required by, and to the
standards established by, this code shall be provided as follows:
(1) For the establishment of a new nonresidential land use and/or the construction of new nonresidential
buildings.
(2) For the floor area or outdoor use area proposed for expansion of an existing nonresidential land use
that increases the parking demand and the required number of parking spaces.
(3) For the change in use of an existing residential property that results in an intensification of the land use
relative to parking demand and the required number of parking spaces.
(4) When an identified circumstance is reached for the establishment of phased parking development.
Page 40 of 57
(5) For the establishment or construction of a new residential dwelling unit or expansion of a residential
unit by more than fifty percent of the original floor area.
(b) Except as otherwise required by this chapter existing legal nonconforming parking may remain and be
maintained as established unless there is a danger to the public health, safety or welfare. Any improvements
to or expansion of nonconforming parking lots shall conform to the provisions of this chapter except that a
voluntary improvement and/or expansion shall not be required to comply with the minimum number of
spaces required and the expansion of spaces that is triggered due to a change of use shall only be the
difference between that required for the existing use and the new use.
(c) Requirements for uses not specifically listed in this chapter shall be determined by the planning manager or
his or her designee, based on the requirements of comparable uses and upon the particular characteristics of
the use and/or other provisions of this chapter.
(d) The numbers and dimensions of parking and loading spaces required by this chapter shall be considered the
minimum required, unless otherwise provided, and additional parking may be required based on the nature
of the use and anticipated demand. On‐street parking shall not be counted toward compliance with the
minimum number of spaces required.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.030 General provisions.
(a) All parking spaces and loading spaces parking lots shall be maintained and kept available for their intended
use and size vehicle intended and shall not be discontinued, reduced, or altered in any way without approval
of the planning department and in compliance with the requirements and standards of this chapter.
(b) All required guest, handicap; loading; compact; or other restricted spaces shall be designated as such and
restricted to such use.
(c) No repair work or servicing of vehicles shall be conducted on designated parking areas.
(d) Fractional spaces shall be counted as the next largest whole space.
(e) Off‐street parking and parking lots constructed, even when not required by this chapter, shall be constructed
and maintained in compliance with the development and use standards of this chapter.
(f) No property shall be used for parking and/or storage of vehicles except as in compliance with the provisions
of this chapter. Except as otherwise noted all vehicles shall be provided with a parking surface in compliance
with the design and development standards for parking spaces and parking lots in this chapter.
(g) All parking lot construction, drainage, landscaping and stripping plans, includeding for improvements to
and/or expansion of existing parking lots, shall be approved by the planning, building and public works
departments for compliance with the requirements of this chapter and title and all other county
development standards and regulations.
Grading and paving of parking lots shall be in compliance with the permits and standards required in Title 14,
Chapters 14.44 (Excavation and Grading) and 14.48 (Stormwater Management). All associated construction within
a public right‐of‐way, including driveway approach construction and landscaping, requires the approval of an
access permit, with associated bonding or other surety for completion of the work, by the public works
department and compliance with all adopted traffic control and safety regulations and procedures.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Page 41 of 57
17.14.040 Minimum parking space and lot dimensions.
(a) Parking Stall Size:
(1) Residential: ten feet by twenty feet.
(2) Commercial: nine feet by nineteen feet.
(3) Compact: nine feet by fifteen feet.
(4) Handicap van: eight feet by nineteen feet plus eight feet unloading area.*
(5) Car: eight feet by nineteen feet plus five feet unloading area.
(6) RV: ten feet by thirty feet.
(7) Parallel: eight feet by twenty‐three feet;
(8) Drive through cueing space: eight feet by ten feet widened at curves as necessary.
(9) Diagonal: thirty, forty‐five and sixty‐degree parking spaces are permitted in conformance with the
following table.
* Dimensions may not be less than state adopted standards. Handicapped unloading area may be on either side of
parking stall.
(b) Table for standard size parking angles (Does not include two‐foot allowance for overhang or interlock
reduction).
A = Parking angle B = Stall width C = Stall depth¹ D = Width at curb E = Aisle width²
0 8′ 8′ 23′ 12′
30 9′ 17′ 17′ 15′
45 9′ 19′ 12.7′ 16′
60 9′ 20.5′ 10.4′ 23′
90 9′ 19′ 9′ 22′
A = Parking angle.
B = Stall width.
¹C = Stall depth from curb to drive aisle.
D = Width at curb.
²E = Aisle width, one way.
(c) Backup space shall be twenty‐four feet except for diagonal accessed by a one‐way drive aide.
(d) Drive aisles from which no parking is directly accessed shall be a minimum of twenty feet in width for two
way and twelve feet in width for one way.
(e) There shall be a two‐foot overhang allowance into landscaping or hardscape buffers or sidewalk areas
provided the sidewalk maintains minimum access width requirements, which in no case shall be less than
four feet.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Page 42 of 57
17.14.050 Minimum number of spaces required.
(a) Off‐street parking ratios expressed as the number of spaces per square feet means the useable or net square
footage exclusive of non‐public or employee work area footage of floor area such as maintenance areas,
foyers, closets, restrooms or storage areas other than active file rooms. Fraction numbers of calculated
spaces shall be rounded up to the next highest whole number. Public parking spaces, either on‐street or in
public parking lots, shall not be included in parking calculations. The applicability of parking on private streets
shall be determined during project approval.
(b) The required number of parking spaces for each type of land use shall be as stipulated below, except as the
requirements may be modified or installation phased by other sections of this chapter:
(1) Residential.
(A) Single‐family detached: two spaces per unit.
(B) Single‐family attached, duplexes and triplexes: two spaces per unit.
(C) Four‐plex multifamily and above: one space per unit up to two bedrooms and one‐half space for
each bedroom over two; plus one‐half guest space per unit.
(D) Mobile home parks: two spaces per unit plus one‐half guest space for each unit.
(E) Group facilities: one space per each three beds.
(F) Single‐family, duplex or triplex developments which restrict parking on local or minor collector
residential streets shall provide one‐half guest space for each unit where parking is restricted to
one side of the street and one guest space per unit where parking is prohibited on both sides of
the street.
(2) Commercial.
(A) Retail: one space for each two hundred fifty square feet; or one space each four hundred square
feet for shopping centers, or shared parking lots by independent businesses, with two or more
uses.
(B) Barber shops and salons: three spaces for each chair.
(C) Restaurants up to twelve seats: one space for each two hundred fifty square feet.
(D) Restaurants over twelve seats: one space for each sixty square feet of customer. Seating area and
one space for each four hundred square feet of kitchen and non‐customer area.
(E) Bank and office (except medical): one space for each three hundred square feet.
(F) Medical office: one space for each two hundred square feet.
(G) Gyms and aerobic studios: one space for each fifty square feet.
(H) Technical school: one space for each one hundred square feet.
(I) Hotels and motels: one space per unit plus one employee space for each ten units, plus parking
for accessory uses by type and one RV parking space for each ten units.
(J) Outdoor product display areas: one space for each one thousand square feet of display or sales
area.
(3) Industrial.
(A) Manufacturing: one space for each seven hundred fifty square feet.
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(B) Warehousing: one space for each one thousand five hundred square feet up to ten thousand
square feet and one space for each two thousand square feet over ten thousand.
(C) Retail show rooms: one space for each five hundred square feet.
(D) Research and development: one space for each five hundred square feet.
(E) In addition to the above industrial uses, uses that employing drivers to takeing vehicles off‐site
for delivery or construction shall provide one space for each driver. In addition to the
followingAlso, office space within industrial uses shall be provided one space for each two
hundred fifty square feet of office use.
(4) Public and semi‐public uses including public schools, parks and athletic facilities. While the exact
number of spaces shall be determined through the special use permit process the following minimums
shall apply:
(A) Hospitals and convalescent care facilities: one space per longer‐term care bed and one space for
each two hundred square feet of out patient area.
(B) Schools: one space for each classroom plus one space for each two hundred fifty square feet of
office area; plus one space for each one hundred square feet of kitchen area; plus one guest
space per each five required spaces; plus for high schools and colleges ten spaces per classroom.
(C) Churches: one space for each three seats in the largest assembly area.
(D) Theaters: one space for each three seats.
(E) Library: one space for three hundred square feet.
(F) Museum and art gallery: one space for five hundred square feet.
(G) Clubs and lodges: one space for each two seats.
(H) Sports facilities/auditoriums: one space for each three seats.
(5) For unnamed uses the number of spaces required may be based on a similar use listed or on a study
provided by a recognized professional in the area of parking and trip demand.
(6) For projects that combine a mix of uses the requirement shall be calculated by the addition of the total
required for each use area by square footage; the provisions for shared parking in this chapter may be
applied.
(7) Compact Spaces.
(A) Up to twenty percent of the number of required spaces over twenty may be compact.
(B) Compact spaces shall be clearly designated and should be grouped separate from standard
spaces.
(8) Bicycle Parking. For commercial and public parking uses that require at least fifty parking stalls a bicycle
rack with a capacity for four bicycles shall be provided for each fifty parking stalls not to exceed a total
of twelve bicycle spaces.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.060 Minimum loading space requirements.
(a) Size. Loading spaces sizes shall be dimensioned to accommodate the type of vehicle intended for use
however the following minimums shall apply where loading spaces are required.
Type A space = 10′ by 30′ with 14′ vertical clearance.
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Type B space = 12′ by 40′ with 14′ vertical clearance.
2. Location. Loading spaces shall be adjacent to the doors they serve and be separated from parking stalls
and be located so as to not interfere with circulation or parking or to cause an unsightly appearance or
provide the potential for noise impacts on residential areas.
3. Numbers. In addition to the minimums listed below, each loading door shall have an associated loading
space. All loading spaces shall be designated with striping.
Type Use Floor Area Number of
Spaces
Required
Commercial 0—10,000
10,001—20,000 1 Type A
Over 20,000 1 Type B
Industrial under 5,000 1 type A
5,000—15,000 1 Type B
15,001—50,000 2 Type B
over 50,000 3 Type B
Public As required by special use permit.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.070 Village commercial parking space requirements.
The village commercial core area is a unique mixed‐use area in the center of Allyn. It is the historic
commercial center of the village and surrounding area. The village commercial and tourist commercial overlay
districts were developed to recognize the unique historic, cadastral, physical and mixed‐use aspects of the core
area and to respond to the changing regional business climate. There are limited prime, business frontage
locations and an existing inefficient mix of paved, unpaved and informal parking spaces. The sub‐area plan calls for
a pedestrian oriented village core preserving the historic, cultural and social characteristics while promoting new
investment based on local demand and the growing tourist opportunities.
To this end, along with zoning regulations for use and physical development, parking regulations specific to
the village commercial zoning districts are necessary to achieve the goals of the sub‐area plan while recognizing
the limitations for development of vehicle parking, circulation and truck delivery. Regulations in this section
provide for planned public parking along with opportunities provided by on‐street parking, not currently available,
and cooperative shared and leased parking arrangements.Planned public parking along with opportunities
provided by on‐street parking not currently available and for cooperative shared and leased parking arrangements
between property/business owners are reflected in the regulation of this section.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.080 Application.
The provisions of Sections 17.14.070 through 17.14.120 shall apply to all properties within the village
commercial and tourist commercial overlay districts. Provisions of this chapter not specifically modified by this
section shall also apply. Existing legal nonconforming parking shall be maintained at its present level in a manner
safe to the users and general public and where it is not detrimental to public or private improvements. Any new
Page 45 of 57
parking voluntarily established, or improvement of existing parking shall comply with the development standards
of this chapter and section.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.090 Off‐street parking and loading space requirements.
(a) Vehicle Parking.
(1) Commercial. The number of parking spaces required for commercial uses in the village commercial
district, except as otherwise noted, shall be fifty percent of the number required by Section 17.14.050
if shared parking is provided.
(2) Residential. One parking stall shall be required for each residential unit.
(3) Hotels and Motels. One space per room plus additional parking required for ancillary uses per
subsection (a)(1) above.
(b) Loading. Loading spaces shall be provided as required by Section 17.14.060 except where a public alley is
available and may be used in a safe manner as determined by the planning manager.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.100 Use of public parking.
(a) On‐street parking and spaces located in public parking lots shall not be reserved or restricted except those
spaces reserved for use by handicapped individuals or on which time limits have been set.
(b) Nothing in this section is intended to limit voluntary parking management programs established by business
or property owners.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.110 Alternative means of meeting on‐site parking requirements.
In addition to those alternative means listed in Section 17.14.130 uses in village commercial may meet the
requirements of this code by use of the following:
(1) In‐Lieu Fee. The required number of on‐site spaces for any use may be reduced on a one for one basis
by payment of an in‐lieu of fee as established by the board of commissioners for use in the
development of public parking lots.
(2) Dedication of Parking. The required number of on‐site spaces for any use may be reduced on a one for
one basis by development of and dedication to the county or Port of Allyn of a public parking lot, or
expansion of an existing lot, within the village commercial district, constructed to county standards and
in which a minimum of twenty spaces are provided.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.120 Access and design.
Access and design of parking lots in the village commercial district shall be as stipulated elsewhere in this
title, see Chapter 17.12 the "village commercial" district and "tourist commercial" overlay district, and in
compliance with any design guidelines adopted by the board of commissioners.
Page 46 of 57
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.130 Modified calculations for required on‐site parking space number.
In addition to the following, Ssee Section 17.14.140(2), Parking Lot Location, regarding the use of off‐site
parking, in addition to the following:.
(1) Common Use of Facilities. Common parking areas may be shared for independent uses where the total
number of spaces provided equal the sum of that required for the individual uses and where there is
assurance, such as a document recorded to run with the land, the parking will always be accessible to
all parties. Handicap accessible parking requirements shall be based on the total number of spaces
provided.
(2) Joint Use of Facilities. A special use permit may be issued for joint use of parking facilities, i.e., where
the same parking spaces are used by different uses at different times, under the following conditions.
(A) Up to fifty percent of the parking required for a use that normally operates in the daytime may
be credited to a use that normally operates at night or vice versa.
(B) Up to one hundred percent of the parking required for a church or school may be credited to
another use during periods when the church or school is not active.
(C) The use for which the joint use is requested must be located within five hundred feet of the
parking facility.
(D) The applicant shall provide evidence that such joint use will not create a conflict of overlapping
use of the parking.
(E) A written agreement shall be recorded to run with the land that ensures the parking will be
available for as ltong as the joint use is required.
(3) Use of Adjusted Gross Floor Area Calculations. In the computation of floor area or building square
footage relative to compliance with this chapter an adjusted gross floor area shall be used. Adjusted
gross floor area shall exclude all common facilities shared by tenants who do not contribute to building
occupancy or in single occupancy units those areas which are ancillary to and support the main use and
shall be limited to mechanical rooms, elevators, foyers, indivisible corridors and hallways, janitor's
closets. This does not include file rooms or other storage rooms that are an integral and typical part of
the business or use.
(4) Parking Studies. An applicant may request a modification, to be allowed by the approval body, to the
minimum number of parking or loading spaces required by providing a study by a qualified professional
that substantiates that parking demand can be met with reduced requirements due to such factors as
drive‐by trip capture, hours of operation or alternative transportation availability for the customer
base.
(5) Transit Oriented Development. Transit oriented developments approved as a planned unit
development or commercial uses approved under the provisions of a binding site plan may propose
reduced parking requirements in lieu of provisions for alternate modes of transportation.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.140 Parking lot location, construction and design.
(a) General Criteria. All parking lots and spaces constructed shall comply with the following unless Unless
specifically altered by some other provision of the Mason County Code or as modified where allowed in
approval of a special use permit, all parking lots and spaces constructed shall comply with the following:.
Page 47 of 57
(1) Parking lots and spaces shall be constructed of either asphalt concrete (AC) or portland concrete
cement (PCC) or some other approved all weather hard surface such a brick or paving stones. Pervious
paving surfaces are encouraged for use to reduce impervious surfaces and lower stormwater runoff
volumes.
(2) All public and private parking and loading areas shall be prepared in a manner to dispose of surface
water runoff which shall be retained on site or drained into an area approved by the Mason County
engineer or the State Department of Transportation when abutting State Highways, and areas which
are to be surfaced with an asphalt, concrete or similar Allall‐weather surface as described above, shall
be subject to review and approval of the Mason county public works director or his designee.
(3) Separate parking spaces with landscape and/or hardscape buffers from public sidewalk, buildings,
moving cars. Buffers should be a minimum of five feet in width. Buffers adjacent to the public right‐of‐
way, except for alleys shall be landscaped and have ten feet minimum width for developments over ten
acres in size.
(4) Provide adequate directional signs.
(5) Provide for safe pedestrian access to building and public sidewalks.
(6) Provide for through circulation limiting the need for backup maneuvers.
(7) Drive through queues shall be designed so that overflow will not interfere with public streets or main
drive aisles in shopping centers.
(8) All parking lots shall comply with Washington state regulations relative to access by persons with
disabilities.
(9) No parking space shall obstruct a doorway or exit from a structure.
(10) Parking stalls shall be clear of all obstructions that limit the use thereof.
(11) A parking stall shall not be located so as to cause a visual obstruction.
(12) Loading spaces when in use shall not obstruct the free circulation of vehicle traffic.
(13) Wheel stops six inches in height shall be provided in the form of continuous curbs or sidewalk edges.
Freestanding wheel stops, i.e., placed on top of previously poured paving, shall not be permitted
except with the approval of the planning manager where there is no danger of creating a tripping
hazard.
(14) Water drainage to and from the parking lot shall not be across sidewalks.
(15) Parking lots shall be designed to permit on site turn around through limits on dead ends and to permit
vehicles to enter and exit the site in a forward motion.
(16) All fire lanes, compact parking stall, handicapped stall, loading areas and turn around areas shall be
appropriately marked.
(17) Drive Though Lanes. Drive through queuing lanes shall accommodate a minimum of eight passenger
vehicles and shall not obstruct the free flow of vehicle circulation loading areas or pedestrian access.
They shall be a minimum of ten feet in width.
(18) One‐way drive aisles shall be a minimum of twelve feet in width. Two‐way drive aisles shall be a
minimum of twenty‐four feet in width except that the width may be reduced to twenty feet where
there is no direct access to parking spaces.
(b) Location.
(1) Parking spaces shall be located in proximity to the use they serve.
Page 48 of 57
(2) Required parking spaces may be located off‐site with concurrence of the body approving the parking
lot if a document is recorded to insure the continued availability of the spaces for the life of the use or
until such time as other spaces are made available; they comply with the development standards of
this code; and do not reduce the required number of spaces available for the use located on the off‐
site property.
(3) The location requirements for this section may be altered through approval of a special use permit,
PUD or binding site plan where the intention of the code for user convenience is met and safe and
direct pathways are provided from the parking to the use.
(c) Landscaping.
(1) Parking space shall be separated from public sidewalks with landscaped planter that shall be a
minimum of five feet and ten feet along a state highway.
(2) A minimum five‐foot wide planter buffer shall separate parking stalls from on site sidewalks.
(3) Long rows of parking spaces, i.e., over twenty spaces, shall be broken up by the use of planters not less
than three feet wide.
(d) Lighting.
(1) Adequate, energy efficient lighting for both vehicle and pedestrian circulation and to provide for public
safety shall be provided.
(2) Freestanding parking lot luminaires shall be located in landscaped islands or otherwise separated from
parked or moving vehicles and kept as low as possible and shall not allow direct light or glare onto
adjacent residential properties. Concrete bases for the luminaries shall be a maximum of six inches in
height unless decorative in construction.
(3) Wall and canopy lighting shall be screened to keep direct light and glare from spilling off the site.
(4) An exterior lighting site plan showing location and type of fixtures and poles and section of poles with
height and footing details and lighting contours shall be submitted with all new building or parking lot
construction plans.
(e) Striping. Nonsingle‐family, duplex and triplex parking stalls shall be designated with a four‐inch wide white
painted stripe.
(1) Directional arrows shall be provided on commercial and industrial drive aisles.
(2) Fire lanes and no parking areas shall be clearly designated.
(f) Deviations to Standards for Design of Parking Facilities. Administrative approval may be given for deviations
to application of the standards of this section for the expansion or improvement of existing parking lots
where there is no threat to public safety.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.150 Access and driveway approach regulations from streets and alleys.
The number, size and location of driveway access to public streets and alleys shall be limited as follows.
(Check with Mason County public works for more specific driveway permit information.)
(1) General.
(A) Minimum thirty‐foot separation from back of curb return at intersections.
(B) Minimum two feet of full height curb from property line except for shared driveways.
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(C) In lieu of standards below, major development may use divided driveways or curb returns in lieu
of driveway approaches as necessary to accommodate traffic and turning movements.
(D) Driveway approach shall be clearly defined through use of landscaping.
(E) Driveways into commercial, industrial or multifamily residential.
(F) Projects shall be aligned with existing or future driveways on the opposite side of the street
where left turns are allowed. They may be minimally offset where no left turn conflict is created
otherwise there shall be a minimum of two hundred feet of separation to allow for opposing left
turn lanes.
(G) Service, one way restricted or other special situation drive approaches shall be clearly designated
as such.
(2) Commercial and Industrial Developments:
(A) Minimum width to forty feet or one‐half width of frontage whichever is less, with approval from
Mason County public works;
(B) Use a four‐foot wide flare in approach;
(C) Design approach for weight of trucks;
(D) Provide separate service driveways for major developments;
(E) Avoid cross traffic near entrance;
(F) Allow vehicles to fully enter site before potential obstruction from cross traffic or backups;
(G) Define location with landscaping;
(H) Do not access parking spaces directly from street; direct access from an alley is permitted. The
number of approaches shall be no more than necessary to accommodate demand and
circulation;
(I) Provide for safe pedestrian crossing of driveways.
(3) Residential Developments.
(A) Single‐family/duplex/triplex:
(i) Limit to one access frontage;
(ii) No driveway access to arterials or major collectors;
(iii) Minimum thirty feet width or one‐half of lot width, whichever is less, with approval from
Mason County public works;
(iv) Use two‐foot flares at approach; and
(v) Use alleys were available for access.
(B) Multifamily:
(i) No access to spaces directly from street;
(ii) Access shall be to lowest category street for corner lots;
(iii) Use four‐foot flares on arterial and major collector driveways; and
(iv) Provide entry treatments to define driveway location.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Page 50 of 57
17.14.160 Parking and storage of recreational vehicles, boats and trailers on residential
property.
Recreational vehicles, trailers and boats and trailers may be parked and stored on residential property under
the following conditions.
(1) In mobile home parks, planned developments and apartment complexes:
(A) Recreational vehicles may not be parked in spaces provided for passenger vehicle parking.
(B) Recreational vehicles shall be parked and/or stored as provided for in the development approval
of the project.
(2) For single‐family detached houses, duplexes and triplexes:
(A) Recreational vehicles shall be parked beyond the front or street side yard edge of the residential
unit except where they are beyond the front or street side yard setback and screened with a
minimum six‐foot high fence or vegetation wall;
(B) Temporary parking of recreational vehicles on driveways and on the street, where parking is
permitted, for the purpose of cleaning, loading or unloading is;
(C) No habitation of recreational vehicles is permitted when parked or stored on a residential lot or
street except habitation may be permitted for vehicles parked on a private residential lot for self‐
contained vehicles or for any vehicle designed for habitation on a lot with an existing residence
where a permit has been issued by the building official and copied to the sheriff department.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.170 Parking of commercial vehicles in residential zones.
Commercial vehicles, other than those allowed through a home‐based occupation or cottage industry special
use permit issued per Section 17.03.021 (Mason County Development Regulations), may not be parked or stored in
residential zones except that for the period of time required to make legitimate service deliveries or pick‐ups.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.180 Commercial storage of vehicles.
(a) Commercial vehicles shall be stored in approved designated locations and shall not obstruct the use or
access to parking stalls.
(b) Striping is not required in vehicle storage areas however required drive aisles and fire lanes must be
designated and be kept clear of obstructions.
(c) Alternative all weather surfaces may be permitted for storage of nonmotorized vehicles and trailers where
there is no significant danger from leakage of fuel or lubricants.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.14.190 Variances.
Except as otherwise allowed by this chapter, applications for variances shall be made in accordance with
Chapter 17.05, Article IV "Variances" of the Mason County Code.
Page 51 of 57
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
Chapter 17.15 ALLYN SIGN CODE*
17.15.010 Intent of sign regulations.
The intent of the sign regulations is to provide minimum standards to safeguard life, health, property and
public welfare by regulating and controlling the number, size, design, quality of materials, construction, location,
electrification, energy efficiency, and maintenance of all signs and sign structures; to preserve and improve the
appearance of the Allyn urban growth area as a place in which to live and as an attraction to nonresidents who
come to visit or trade; to encourage sound signing practices as an aid to business and for public information but to
prevent excessive and confusing sign displays or signs that pose a hazard to the public.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.020 Application.
This chapter applies only to signs within the Allyn urban growth area.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.030 Exemptions to the sign regulations.
The following may be construed as signs, but are not intended to be regulated as signs in this chapter:
(1) The flag, emblem or insignia of a nation or other governmental unit or nonprofit organization subject
to the guidelines concerning their use set forth by the government or organization which they
represent.
(2) Traffic or other municipal signs, signs required by law or emergency, railroad crossing signs, legal
notices and signs erected by government agencies to implement public policy;
(3) Signs of public utility companies indicating danger or which serve as an aid to public safety or which
show the location of underground facilities or of public telephones;
(4) Signs located in the interior of any building or within an enclosed lobby or court of any building or
group of buildings, which signs are designed and located to be viewed exclusively by patrons of such
use or uses;
(5) Temporary signs or Ddecorations, clearly incidental and customary and commonly associated with any
national, local or religious holiday, or traditional community event such as annual festivals or parades;
(6) Sculptures, fountains, murals, mosaics and design features which do not incorporate advertising or
identification.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.040 Definitions.
The following definitions apply within this chapter:
"Accessory building or use" means any building or use which:
Page 52 of 57
(1) Is subordinated to, and serves a principal building or principal use; and
(2) Is subordinate in area, extent or purpose to the principal building or principal use served; and
(3) Contributes to the comfort, convenience or necessity of occupants of the principal building or principal
use served; and
(4) Is located on the same lot as the principal building or principal use served, with the single exception of
such accessory off‐street parking facilities as are permitted to locate elsewhere than on the same lot
with the building or use served; and
(5) Accessory uses include signs that are related to and support an on‐site business or activity.
"Agricultural sales sign" means a usually seasonaltemporary sign used to announce and/or direct the public
to a sale of locally grown agricultural products.
"Animated sign" means any sign which includes action or motion or the optical illusion of action or motion,
or color changes of all or any part of the sign facing, requiring electrical energy, or set in motion by movement of
the atmosphere.
"Billboard" means the same as an off‐premises sign.
"Changing message center sign" means an electrically or electronically controlled sign where different
automatic changing messages are shown on the same lamp blank.
"Commercial sign" means for the purposes sign regulations, a sign intended to attract attention, identify,
advertise, and/or promote: a business; goods sold, offered, traded, or manufactured; a service sold or offered; or
professional, commercial or industrial gainful activity.
"Construction sign" means any sign used to identify the architects, engineers, contractors or other individuals
or firms involved with the construction of a building and announce the character of the building or the purpose for
which the building is intended.
"County" means Mason County, Washington.
"Flashing sign" means any sign which contains an intermittent or flashing light source or which includes the
illusion of intermittent or flashing light by means of animation or an externally mounted intermittent light source.
"Freestanding sign" means a sign supported permanently upon the ground by poles, pylons, braces or a solid
base and not attached to any building. Freestanding signs include those signs otherwise known as pedestal signs,
pole signs, pylon signs, and monument signs.
"Garage sale signs (yard sales, moving sales, patio sales)" means temporary signs used to announce and/or
direct the public to a sale of used items.
"Monument sign" means a freestanding sign having the appearance of a solid base of landscape construction
materials such as brick, stucco, stonework, textured wood, tile or textured concrete materials compatible with the
materials of the primary structure on the subject property.
"Noncommercial sign" means for the purposes of sign regulations, a sign intended for a purpose other than
to attract attention, identify, advertise, and/or promote: a business; goods sold, offered, traded, or manufactured;
a service sold or offered; or professional, commercial, or industrial gainful activity.
"Off‐premises sign" means a sign that directs attention to a business, commodity, service or entertainment
conducted, sold or offered at a location other than the premises on which the sign is located.
“On‐premise sign” means any communication device, structure or fixture that is intended to aid in
identification and to advertise and/or promote a business, service, activity, interest or view at the location on
which the sign is located.
Page 53 of 57
"Pole (or pylon) sign" means freestanding sign supported permanently upon the ground by poles or braces
and not attached to any building.
"Political sign" means a temporary sign advertising a candidate or candidates for public elective office, or a
political party, or sign urging a particular vote on a public issue decided by ballot.
"Real estate signs" means any temporary sign pertaining to the sale, lease or rental of land or buildings.
"Roof sign" means any sign erected upon, against or directly above a roof or on top of or above the parapet
of a building.
"Sign" means any communication device, structure or fixture that is intended to aid an establishment in
identification and to advertise and/or promote a business, service, activity or interest. For the purpose of this
chapter, a sign shall not be considered to be building or structural design, but shall be restricted solely to graphics,
symbols or written copy that is meant to be used in the aforementioned way. Signs as regulated in this chapter
have been organized into a variety of types, such as commercial and noncommercial, which are regulated
differently.
"Temporary sign" means those signs intended and designed to be displayed for a limited period of time and
associated with a particular event or short term activity.associated with a particular event or short‐term activity
(such as construction of a building) which are intended to be removed when the event or activity ends. Temporary
signs may be of either a commercial or noncommercial nature.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.050 Sight distance for signs.
In addition to the setback requirements otherwise established, signs shall be located such that there is at
every street intersection a clear view between heights of three feet and ten feet in a triangle formed by the corner
and points on the curb thirty feet from the intersection or entryway.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.060 Prohibited commercial signs.
The following commercial signs or displays are prohibited in all areas of the Allyn urban growth area:
(1) Roof signs;
(2) Animated or flashing signs, provided that changing message center signs may be allowed when the
image and/or message remains fixed for at least five seconds and that the only animation or
appearance of movement allowed is the transition from one message and/or image to another by the
scrolling on and/or off of the message and/or image;
(3) Signs which, by reason of their size, location, movement, content, coloring or manner of illumination
may be confused with or construed as a traffic control sign, signal or device, or the light of an
emergency or radio equipment vehicle, or which obstruct the visibility of traffic or street sign or signal
device from the traffic intended to be served by the sign, signal or device;
(4) Signs attached to utility poles;
(5) Off‐premises signs and billboards, except for the temporary signs allowed in Sections 17.15.080
through 17.15.110, inclusive;
(6) Pole‐mounted signs;
(7) Ground‐mounted signs taller than ten feet in height;
Page 54 of 57
(8) Signs employing exposed electrical conduits;
(9) Signs with visible ballast boxes or other equipment;
(10) Signs with luminous plastic letters;
(11) Audible or odor‐producing signs;
(12) Cardboard signs, except for the temporary signs allowed in ;
(13) Banners, except those related to a specific community event and displayed prior to the event for no
more than twenty‐one days and those used when a new business opens may be displayed no more
than thirty days.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.070 Prohibited noncommercial Non‐commercial signs.
Non‐commercial signs may be placed upon private property with owner’s consent.The following
noncommercial signs or displays are prohibited in all areas of the county:
(1) Animated or flashing signs, provided that changing message center signs may be allowed when the
image and/or message remains fixed for at least five seconds and that the only animation or
appearance of movement allowed is the transition from one message and/or image to another by the
scrolling on and/or off of the message and/or image;
(2) Signs which, by reason of their size, location, movement, content, coloring or manner of illumination
may be confused with or construed as a traffic control sign, signal or device, or the light of an
emergency or radio equipment vehicle, or which obstruct the visibility of traffic or street sign or signal
device from the traffic intended to be served by the sign, signal or device.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.080 Temporary SignsReal estate signs.
Temporary signs are those intended and designed to be displayed for a limited period of time and shall not
be permanently attached or anchored to the ground, to a building, or any other structure. Temporary signs
specified in 17.15.080(3), which are allowed in the right‐of‐way, are regulated pursuant to 17.03.202.C,
17.03.202.D., and state law.Real estate signs may be placed only upon private property with owner's consent.
(1) Signs displayed on a property actively marketed for sale, lease, or rent.
a. Permitted Location: On property for sale, lease, or rent.
b. Duration: No longer than ten (10) days after the sale, lease, or rent of property has been
finalized.
c. Off‐Premise Signs: May be placed on private property with owner’s consent.
(2) Signs displayed on a property holding a temporary event.
a. Permitted Location: On the property with which the temporary event is associated.
b. Duration: No longer than ten (10) days after the event.
c. Off‐Premise Signs: May be placed on private property with owner’s consent.
(3) Signs displayed during elections and campaigns.
Page 55 of 57
a. Permitted Location: May be placed on private property with owner’s consent and in the public
right‐of‐way as regulated pursuant to 17.03.202.C, 17.03.202.D, and state law.
b. Duration: No longer than ten (10) days after the final campaign or election.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.090 Noncommercial signs.
Noncommercial signs may be placed upon private property with owner's consent. Political signs are
permitted on public right‐of‐ways as regulated by state law and local ordinance.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.100 Garage sale signs (also yard sales, moving sales, patio sales).
Garage sale signs (also yard sales, moving sales, patio sales) may be placed only upon private property and
with the owner's consent.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.110 Agricultural sales signs.
Agricultural sales signs may be placed only upon private property and with the owner's consent.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.120 Permitted commercial monument sign standards.
(a) Monument site entry signs may be located at major vehicular or pedestrian entries along the street front.
(b) Vision Clearance. A triangular area at the intersection of two streets measured from the corner thirty feet in
each direction and connected to form a triangle. No sign shall be located within a vision clearance area.
(c) Only one monument sign is allowed per site. For large sites, more than one monument sign shall be
permitted as long as such signs are placed no closer than one hundred fifty feet apart along the street front.
(d) Monument signs size limits:
(1) Single tenant signs shall be no more than eight feet in height and thirty‐two square feet in area per
face (two sign faces are allowed).
(2) Single tenant signs for retail uses larger than fifty thousand square feet in gross floor area shall be no
more than ten feet in height and fifty square feet in area per face.
(3) Multi‐tenant (more than three tenants) signs shall be no more than ten feet in height and forty square
feet in area per face.
(4) Multi‐tenant signs for commercial uses with more than fifty thousand square feet in gross floor area
shall be no more than ten feet in height and fifty square feet in area per face.
(5) Monument signs for multifamily developments shall be no more than five feet in height and twenty‐
eight square feet in total sign face area.
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Figure 1. An example of a monument sign.
(6) Signs shall be designed to integrate with adjacent site landscaping.
(7) Monument signs shall be setback at least five feet from any public right‐of‐way.
(8) The lettering and logos of monument signs may be internally‐lit or illuminated from the front.
(9) A thirty‐foot lineal break in required tree coverage in landscaped front yard areas parallel to the street,
where applicable, is permitted adjacent to monument signs to enhance visibility. Other landscape
elements such as shrubs and ground cover will still apply.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.130 Permitted commercial building sign standards.
(a) Building signs are those signs mounted directly on the face of a building and include signs to identify the
building or facility or individual tenants or businesses. Building signs should be designed and located to fit
with the building's architecture. For example, building signs might fit within a recessed panel or on a building
element such as a fascia or canopy. Building signs should not cover over an architectural element such as a
window or portion of a building's ornamentation or trim.
(b) Building signs should fit parallel or perpendicular with the building facade. The supporting mechanisms or
arms of new building signs should not be visible. Perpendicular signs should not extend more than four feet
from the building facade.
(c) The maximum surface area of building mounted signs for a given facade is twenty‐five square feet plus ten
percent of the area of the building's main facade. The sign(s) may be located on any facade, but the signs on
all facades count toward maximum surface area.
(d) The lettering and logos of building signs may be internally‐lit but the background of the sign face shall not be
internally illuminated. Building signs may be illuminated from the front.
Page 57 of 57
Figure 2. Maximum size of building signs.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.140 Permitted commercial tenant sign standards.
Miscellaneous tenant signs including those hung from building canopies (blade signs), temporary ground
placed A‐board signs, and window signs are allowed provided they do not exceed twelve square feet and provided
they are within ten feet of the individual or multiple tenant building entrance.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.150 Permitted commercial neon sign standards.
Neon signs in windows are permitted.
(Ord. 63‐07 Exh. A (part), 2007).
17.15.160 Severability
This title shall be governed by the laws of the State of Washington. In the event that any portion or section of
this title be declared invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of the title
shall not be affected and shall remain in full force and effect.
17.15.170 Enforcement
County officials shall have the authority to remove signs when not placed in accordance with this section.
Chapter 17.16 LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING
ATTACHMENT C
Page 1 of 72
Chapter 17.20 – GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR THE BELFAIR UGA
17.20.010 Title.
The ordinance codified under this title, Chapters 17.20 to 17.35, shall be known as the Belfair Zoning Code,
which code adopts a zoning districting plan for the Belfair urban growth area (BUGA or Belfair UGA).
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.20.020 Authority.
This code is enacted under the authority and police powers of Mason County and the Revised Code of
Washington including, but not limited to, the requirements and authority of Chapter 36.70, Planning Enabling Act
and Chapter 36.70A RCW, the Washington State Growth Management Act.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.20.030 Purpose and Applicability.
(a) Purpose. These development regulations and design standards are intended to implement the vision and
recommendations of the Belfair urban growth area plan.
(b) Applicability. The development regulations and design standards apply to all properties within the Belfair
urban growth area unless otherwise noted. They shall supplement other provisions of Mason County Code.
Where a conflict exists, these development regulations and design standards shall apply as they are more
specific. The development regulations and design standards are not intended to add unnecessarily to the
cost of development. The design standards do not dictate any particular architectural style, and are intended
to encourage quality development, and allow creativity by developers/designers.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.20.040 Interpretation.
(a) In the case where the wording of the code is not explicit or where its application is in dispute, the director of
the department of community development or his/her designee shall have the authority to interpret the
meaning of the code upon receipt of a written request stipulating the exact nature of the dispute. Such
decisions may be appealed to the planning commissionhearing examiner.
(b) Private Agreements. The county has no authority to enforce private codes, covenants or restrictions either
recorded by deed or other agreements except as their compliance may have been made a part of a project
approval.
(c) To clarify the interpretation of the regulations, the words "shall", "must", "is/are required", or "is/are
prohibited" signify required actions. The words "should", "is/are recommended", or "is/are encouraged"
signify recommended actions. Mason County, however, can make recommended actions requirements for a
particular development, depending on site visibility, site environmental conditions, or other important
characteristics. Also, the terms "where possible" or "when possible" are used numerous times within the
design standards. The phrase means that an applicable standard or guideline must be followed unless there
are physical features associated with a site that make conformance difficult or impossible while using normal
development practices and construction techniques. Cost is not considered a "physical" feature.
Page 2 of 72
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.20.050 Relationship to the Mason County comprehensive plan and other sections of the
MCC.
(a) Comprehensive Plan. The Growth Management Act requires consistency between the comprehensive plan
and development regulations such as zoning. As such, it is hereby stipulated that where a conflict exists
between this section and the letter, intent or spirit of the comprehensive plan the latter shall apply. These
zoning regulations are intended to implement the Growth Management Act goals, the county wide planning
policies and the goals, policies and objectives adopted in the comprehensive plan for urban areas. This
includes land use, building density and intensity, roadway functionality, utilities and infrastructure, open
space, housing, protection of sensitive environmental areas and concurrency.
(b) MCC. Where this section adopts by reference another section of the Mason County Code that section shall
be applicable within the Belfair urban growth area. Where this section is silent on a subject or standard the
applicable section of the MCC shall apply.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.20.060 Administrator.
The director of the department of community development or his/her designee shall be the individual
responsible for providing coordination of review and decision‐making, enforcement and the provision of
information regarding the status of applications and issuance of development permits subject to this chapter.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.20.070 Definitions.
The definitions used in the Belfair urban growth area are the same as established in the Mason County
development regulations, except that the following definitions apply only within the Belfair UGA.
"Adult entertainment" means an establishment consisting of, including, or having the characteristics of any
or all of the following:
(1) Adult bookstore or exotic retail establishment is an establishment having more than twenty‐five
percent of its stock‐in‐trade merchandise that are distinguished or characterized by their emphasis on
matter depicting, describing, or relating to sexual activities, anatomical genital areas, or erotic
entertainment. The term "merchandise" as used above includes, but is not limited to the following:
books, magazines, posters, cards, pictures, publications, tapes, discs, films, or other such medium;
instruments, devices, equipment, paraphernalia, or other products.
(2) Adult cabaret, arcade, or theater is: (A) An establishment devoted to erotic entertainment, either with
or without a liquor license, presenting material distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on
matter depicting, describing, or relating to sexual activities or anatomical genital areas; (B) An erotic
dance studio as regulated in MCC Chapter 5.19.
"Articulation" means the giving of emphasis to architectural elements (like windows, balconies, entries, etc.)
that create a complementary pattern of rhythm, dividing large buildings into smaller identifiable pieces.
"Balcony" means an outdoor space built as an above ground platform projecting from the wall of a building
and enclosed by a parapet or railing.
Page 3 of 72
"Bay window" means a window that protrudes from the main exterior wall at least one foot measured
horizontally from the facade of the building.
"Blank wall" means any wall or portion of a wall that has a surface area of four hundred square feet without
a window, door, building modulation as defined below or other architectural feature, or any ground level wall
surface or section of a wall over four feet in height at ground level that is longer than fifteen feet as measured
horizontally without having a ground level window or door lying wholly or in part within that fifteen foot section.
"Blank wall treatment" means the use of various techniques to mitigate the visual effect of a blank wall.
Blank wall treatment requirements can be found in Chapter 17.30.
"Building height" means the maximum building height, as measured from the average grade of the base of a
building to the bottom of the roof eaves or the top of the cornice line. Church spires, bell towers, chimneys and
other architectural features may exceed the applicable maximum building height by fifty percent and
communications facilities by as much as permitted through approval of a special use permit.
“Business Services” means establishments primarily engaged in rendering services to business
establishments on a fee or contract basis, such as advertising and mailing; building maintenance; employment
services; protective services; equipment rental and leasing; commercial research, development, and testing; photo
finishing; and personal supply services.
"Cornice" means a horizontal molding projecting along the top of a wall or building.
"Courtyard" means a landscaped space enclosed on at least three sides by a single structure.
"Deck" means a roofless outdoor space built as an above ground platform projecting from a wall of a building
and connected to the ground by structural supports.
"Duplex" means a single building that contains two dwelling units.
"Erotic entertainment" means any exhibition, performance, dance of any type, or other performance where
such entertainment involves a person appearing or performing (either live or recorded) who: (1) is unclothed or in
such attire, costume or clothing as to expose to view any portion of the female breast below the top of the areola,
or (without regard to gender) any portion of the pubic region, anus, buttocks, or genitals; or (2) touches, caresses,
or fondles the breasts, buttocks, anus, genitals or pubic region of themselves or a patron, or permits the touching,
caressing, or fondling of their own breasts, buttocks, anus, genitals or pubic region by a patron, another employee
or anyone else with the intent to sexually arouse or excite.
"Facade" means the front of a building facing a street. It may also be referred to as the apparent width of the
structure facing the street.
"Fenestration" means the design, proportioning, and disposition of windows and other exterior openings of a
building.
"Foot‐candle" means a unit equivalent to the illumination produced by a source of one candle at a distance
of one foot and equal to one lumen incident per square foot.
"Foot‐lambert" means a unit of luminance equal to the luminance of a surface emitting a luminous flux of
one lumen per square foot.
"Gabled roof" means a triangular wall enclosed by the sloping ends of a ridged roof.
"Hipped roof" means a roof with sloping ends and sides.
"Light manufacturing" means manufacturing where there is no outdoor storage of raw materials or products,
the manufacturing and assembly processes are entirely contained within closed structures, and there is no
discernable noise, odor, vibration, glare, dust, or other sensory effect from the manufacturing processes.
"Lot coverage" means the percent of a lot or parcel which is,. or will be covered by all structures located
thereon. Coverage is determined by measuring areas covered by a weather tight roof.
Page 4 of 72
"Lumen" means the unit of luminous flux equal to the luminous flux emitted in a unit solid angle by a point
source of one candle intensity.
"Lux" means a unit of illumination equivalent to nine hundred twenty‐nine thousandths foot‐candle and
equal to the illumination produced by luminous flux of one lumen falling perpendicularly on a surface one meter
square.
"Modulation" means stepping back or projecting forward portions of the building face with specified
intervals of building width and depth, as a means of breaking up the apparent bulk of the structure's continuous
exterior walls and to some extent, helping to identify individual residential units.
"Multi‐family dwelling units" includes any structure that contains more than three dwelling units.
"Net developable acre" means the gross land area of property less critical lands, above‐ground stormwater
facilities, and public or private road rights of way.
"Pedestrian‐oriented facade" means ground floor facades facing a public street or pedestrian‐oriented space
containing transparent window area or window displays along a minimum of fifty percent of their length and
featuring no blank walls.
"Pedestrian‐oriented space" means an area that provides pedestrian‐oriented amenities and landscaping to
enhance the pedestrian use of the space for passive recreational activities such as: resting, reading, picnicking, and
socializing. Requirements for pedestrian‐oriented space are contained in Chapter 17.25.
"Recycling center" means a drop off station for recycling of household goods such as paper, plastic,
cardboard, glass, and cans, but not intended to include permanent storage of recycled materials, processing of
materials, or larger scale items such as appliances or construction debris.
"Stepped roofs" means different levels of roofs that are created by stepping back all or a portion of the
facade.
"Townhouse" means a dwelling unit, typically two or more stories tall, that exists as part of a set of attached
units, each having a unique publicly‐accessible entrance.
"Triplex" means a single building that contains three dwelling units.
"Weather protection" means architectural features such as an awning, marquee, or canopy that protects
pedestrians from rain and sunlight. To qualify as weather protection, the feature must be at least eight feet above
the walking surface and project at least six feet horizontally from the structure.
"Yard setback" means the space extending the full width of the lot between a structure or building and the
lot line or road easement boundary, whichever is closer. The setback is measured from the building to the closest
point of the front lot line or road easement boundary, whichever is closer. A roof overhang, chimneys, copulas, bay
windows, porch covers, and door landings are allowed to project a maximum of two feetd into a minimum setback.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
17.20.080 Districts established.
Zoning districts are established as follows:
LTA Long Term Agricultural
R‐4 Low Density Residential District
R‐5 Medium Density Residential District
R‐10 High Density Residential District
Page 5 of 72
MU Mixed Use District
MPMU Mixed Use Master Plan
GC General Commercial District
BI Business Industrial District
PI Public Institutional (See Chapter 17.07)
(Ord. 58‐08 (part), 2008: Ord. 46‐08 (part), 2008; Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
(Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.20.090 District boundaries—Map.
(a) A parcel specific official zoning map, designating the boundaries of zoning districts and approved overlay
districts and planned unit developments, shall be adopted by the county board of commissioners. Said map
shall be kept on file with the department of community development. The zoning districts established by this
title are also available as a series of GIS layers (“layers”) on the Mason County GIS
(gis.masoncountywa.gov/mason). The public web‐based GIS is adopted as a part of this title insofar as it
indicates such designations, locations and boundaries of zoning districts, and shall be deemed to be part of
this title.
(b) The official zoning map (“layers”) shall be amended as provided for in this code and in a manner consistent
with the comprehensive plan and Title 15 of the MCC.
(c) The map shall be at a scale that allows easy determination of the zoning district in which a subject property
may lay.
(d) Where a street, alley, pathway, railroad, or stream is located on the interface between districts; the
boundary between districts shall be the centerline of said feature.
(e) Boundary lines shall be interpreted as provided in the Mason County development regulations.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.20.100 Amendments.
Amendments to this title or changes to the official zoning map shall be made as provided for in Title 15 of the
MCC.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Chapter 17.21 "LTA"—LONG TERM AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT
17.21.010 Purpose.
The purpose of the LTA district is to support commercial agriculture and provide open space within the
Belfair UGA. Locations are restricted to sites viable for commercial agricultural uses. This district allows for a base
density of one dwelling unit per ten acres. However, density credits of up to three dwelling units per acre are
permitted provided that this density shall only be used if transferred to lands outside the LTA district and within
the Belfair UGA.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Page 6 of 72
17.21.020 Allowed uses.
Uses allowed in the LTA district shall be as follows:
(1) Agricultural buildings;
(2) Agricultural crops; orchards;
(3) Aquaculture;
(4) Bicycle paths, walking trails;
(5) Dwellings, single‐family;
(6) Forestry;
(7) Greenhouses, private and non‐commercial;
(8) Horticultural nurseries, wholesale and retail;
(9) Kennels;
(10) Livestock;
(11) Public parks;
(12) Stables.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.21.030 Accessory uses.
The following uses are permitted only as they are ancillary to the primary allowed uses and may or may not
require a special license or permit in addition to holding a building permits:
(1) Home occupations;
(2) Accessory structures;
(3) Accessory dwelling units;
(4) Family child care centers;
(5) Group homes;
(6) Outdoor vehicle parking;
(7) Well heads and water treatment facilities;
(8) Community drain fields;
(9) Small‐scale retail associated with an allowed use.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.21.040 Special uses.
(a) Bed and breakfast inns.
(b) Other essential public facilities.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Page 7 of 72
17.21.050 Prohibited uses.
The following uses are prohibited:
(1) Adult entertainment.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.21.060 Bulk and dimensional standards.
Density: Maximum average of one dwelling unit per 10 acres excluding the area of designated wetlands,
designated landslide hazard areas (note: building may be allowed in LHA), lakes, ponds, or marine
waters.
Exceptions:
One dwelling unit per lot legally created prior to the adoption of this chapter.
Density credits of up to three dwelling units per acre are permitted provided that this density shall
only be used if transferred to lands outside the LTA designation and within the UGA. In the UGA,
density transfer under the provisions of this Section may be used on the receiving property in order
to allow additional dwelling units in residential zoning districts above that permitted by the
residential density limit, provided that other code requirements are met.
Height: The maximum height of structures in the district shall be as follows:
Buildings containing the permitted use: 30 feet.
Accessory structure: 20 feet.
Setbacks: Front yard: 15 feet.
Side yard: 5 feet for accessory structures and 10 feet for the dwelling unit.
Street side yard: 15 feet.
Rear yard: 5 feet for accessory structures and 10 feet for the dwelling unit.
Street rear yard: 15 feet.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Chapter 17.22 RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS IN THE BELFAIR UGA
17.22.010 "R‐4" Low density residential district—Purpose.
The purpose of the R‐4 district is to provide a lower density housing option in the UGA. Locations are
restricted to sites containing critical areas and slopes as development is expected to be clustered into the more
suitable building areas. Locations should also be away from development nodes and commercially zoned areas but
with the intensity of development still relatively low, beyond a normal walking distance of one‐half to three‐
quarters of a mile. The district allows for a maximum density of four dwelling units per gross acre. Clustering of the
dwelling units and properties is encouraged to protect open space and water quality, reduce infrastructure needs,
and enhance energy efficiency. Multi‐family dwelling units are conditionally permitted as long as they do not
exceed the density requirement and minimize impacts to adjacent single‐family dwelling units.
(Ord. 58‐08 (part), 2008: Ord. 46‐08 (part), 2008; Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Page 8 of 72
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
17.22.020 Allowed uses.
Uses allowed in the R‐4 district shall be as follows:
(1) One detached dwelling per lot;
(2) Duplexes;
(3) Public parks;
(4) Public utility service lines.
(Ord. 58‐08 (part), 2008: Ord. 46‐08 (part), 2008; Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.22.030 Accessory uses.
The following uses are permitted only as they are ancillary to the primary allowed uses and may or may not
require a special license or permit in addition to holding a building permits:
(1) Home occupations;
(2) Accessory structures;
(3) Accessory dwelling units;
(4) Family child care centers;
(5) Group homes;
(6) Outdoor vehicle parking;
(7) Well heads and water treatment facilities;
(8) Community drain fields.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.22.040 Special uses.
(a) Churches.
(b) Schools.
(c) Commercial child care centers.
(d) Bed and breakfast inns.
(e) Multi‐family dwelling units.
(f) Other essential public facilities.
(g) Townhouses.
(h) Triplexes.
(i) Recreational vehicle/trailer parks.
(j) Manufactured home parks.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Page 9 of 72
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
17.22.045 Prohibited uses.
The following uses are prohibited:
(1) Adult entertainment.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.22.050 Bulk and dimensional standards.
Density: Maximum average of four dwelling units per gross acre and a minimum density of three
units per net developable acre.
Intensity: 35% lot coverage on individual lots.
Minimum Lot
Area:
None. Development must not exceed density and lot coverage requirements above.
Lot Dimensions: All lots shall have a minimum width of 25 feet.
Height: The maximum height of structures in the district shall be as follows:
Buildings containing the permitted use: 30 feet.
Accessory structure: 20 feet.
Setbacks: A roof overhang, chimneys, copulas, bay windows, porch covers, and door landings are
allowed to project a maximum of two feet into a minimum setback.
Front yard: 15 feet.
Side yard: 5 feet for accessory structures and 5 feet for the dwelling unit. Side yard setback
reduction may be granted with review and approval of a building administrative variance,
but in no case shall the setback be less than the minimum required by building or fire codes.
Street side yard: 10 feet.
Rear yard: 5 feet for accessory structures and 10 feet for the dwelling unit.
Street rear yard: 15 feet.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. 46‐08 (part), 2008; Ord. 58‐08 (part), 2008; Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐
2019; Ord. No. 2020‐35, Att. A, 5‐5‐2020; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. C, 1‐18‐2022)
17.22.060 "R‐5" Medium density residential district—Purpose.
The purpose of the R‐5 district is to provide a medium density housing option within the Belfair urban growth
area. Locations are restricted to sites not significantly impacted by critical areas and slopes. Locations should
generally be away from development nodes and commercially zoned areas, beyond a normal walking distance of
one‐half to three‐quarters of a mile. The district allows for a maximum density of five dwelling units per gross acre.
Clustering of the dwelling units and properties is encouraged to protect open space and water quality, reduce
infrastructure needs, and enhance energy efficiency. Multi family dwelling units are permitted as long as they do
not exceed the density requirement and minimize impacts to adjacent single family dwelling units.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
Page 10 of 72
17.22.070 Allowed uses.
Uses allowed in the R‐5 district shall be as follows:
(1) One detached dwelling per lot;
(2) Duplexes;
(3) Multi‐family dwelling units;
(4) Public parks;
(5) Public utility service lines;
(6) Townhouses;
(7) Triplexes.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.22.080 Accessory uses.
The following uses are permitted only as they are ancillary to the primary allowed uses and may or may not
require a special license or permit in addition to holding a building permits:
(1) Home occupations;
(2) Accessory dwelling units;
(3) Club houses;
(4) Recreation areas;
(5) Family child care centers;
(6) Group homes;
(7) Outdoor vehicle parking;
(8) Well heads and water treatment facilities;
(9) Community drain fields.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.22.090 Special uses.
(a) Churches.
(b) Schools.
(c) Commercial child care centers.
(d) Bed and breakfast inns.
(e) Other essential public facilities.
(f) Hotels. provided the following siting and design conditions are met:
(1) Site is identified as a "hotel overlay" on the official zoning map for the Belfair UGA.
(g) Recreational vehicle/trailer parks.
Page 11 of 72
(h) Manufactured home parks.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
17.22.095 Prohibited uses.
The following uses are prohibited:
(1) Adult entertainment.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.22.100 Bulk and dimensional standards.
Density: Maximum average of 5 dwelling units per gross acre, and a minimum density of four units
per net developable acre.
Intensity: 40% lot coverage.
Minimum Lot
Area:
None. Development must not exceed density and lot coverage requirements above.
Lot Dimensions: All lots shall have a minimum width of 25 feet.
Height: The maximum height of structures in the district shall be as follows: Buildings containing the
permitted use: 35 feet, or as reviewed by special use permit.
Accessory structure: 20 feet.
Setbacks: A roof overhang, chimneys, copulas, bay windows, porch covers, and door landings are
allowed to project a maximum of two feet into a minimum setback.
Front yard: 10 feet.
Side yard: 5 feet for accessory structures and 5 feet for the dwelling unit. Side yard setback
reduction may be granted with review and approval of a building administrative variance,
but in no case shall the setback be less than the minimum required by building or fire codes.
Street side yard: 10 feet.
Rear yard: 5 feet for accessory structures and 10 feet for the dwelling unit.
Street rear yard: 10 feet.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019; Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019; Ord. No.
2020‐35, Att. A, 5‐5‐2020; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Atts. A, C, 1‐18‐2022)
17.22.110 "R‐10" Multi‐family residential district—Purpose.
The purpose of the R‐10 district is to provide a high‐density residential‐area housing option within the Belfair
urban growth area. Locations should be within or adjacent to development nodes and commercially zoned areas
within a normal walking distance of one‐half to three‐quarters of a mile. Locations generally are areas not
significantly impacted by critical areas and slopes. The district allows for a density of ten dwelling units per gross
acre, and a minimum density of ten dwelling units per net developable acre. Clustering of the dwelling units and
properties is encouraged to protect open space and water quality, reduce infrastructure needs, and enhance
energy efficiency. Design standards are important to minimize environmental and visual impacts of developments
and provide amenities for residents. Protection of creeks and wetlands is critical—these features should be
preserved and integrated into the development as an asset and amenity for residents. Open space and play areas
Page 12 of 72
will be important, particularly for young families. Pedestrian access—between developments and to provide access
to parks, open space, commercial, and civic uses—is also very important.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
17.22.120 Allowed uses.
Uses allowed in the R‐10 district shall be as follows:
(1) Detached dwellings;
(2) Duplexes;
(3) Multi‐family dwelling units;
(4) Public parks;
(5) Public utility service lines;
(6) Townhouses;
(7) Triplexes.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.22.130 Accessory uses.
The following uses are permitted only as they are ancillary to the primary allowed uses and may or may not
require a special license or permit in addition to holding a building permits:
(1) Home occupations;
(2) Accessory dwelling units;
(3) Club houses;
(4) Recreation areas;
(5) Family child care centers;
(6) Group homes;
(7) Outdoor vehicle parking;
(8) Well heads and water treatment facilities;
(9) Community drain fields.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.22.140 Special uses.
(a) Churches.
(b) Schools.
(c) Bed and breakfast inns.
(d) Commercial child care center.
Page 13 of 72
(e) Other essential public facilities.
(f) All uses permitted in the festival retailmixed use district (MUFR) provided the following conditions are met:
(1) Site is identified as a "retail overlay" on the official zoning map for the Belfair UGA;
(12) Applicant successfully demonstrates to the county that the general commercial (GC) zoned lands east
of the Burlington Northern Railroad line are built‐out Development must comply with all bulk,
dimensional, and design standards and guidelines of the festival retail district.
(2) Development must comply with all bulk, dimensional, and design standards and guidelines of the
mixed use district.
(g) Recreational vehicle/trailer parks.
(h) Manufactured home parks.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
17.22.145 Prohibited uses.
The following uses are prohibited:
(1) Adult entertainment.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.22.150 Bulk and dimensional standards.
Density: Maximum average of 10 dwelling units per gross acre, and a minimum density of ten units
per net developable acre.
Intensity: 50% lot coverage.
Minimum Lot
Area:
None. Development must not exceed density and lot coverage requirements above.
Lot Dimensions: All lots shall have a minimum width of 25 feet.
Height: The maximum height of structures in the district shall be as follows: Buildings containing the
permitted use: 45 feet, or as reviewed by special use permit.
Accessory structure: 20 feet.
Setbacks: A roof overhang, chimneys, copulas, bay windows, porch covers, and door landings are
allowed to project a maximum of two feet into a minimum setback.
Setbacks: Front yard: 10 feet.
Side yard: 5 feet for accessory structures and 5 feet for the dwelling unit. Side yard reduction
may be granted with review and approval of a building administrative variance, but in no
case shall the setback be less than the minimum required by building or fire codes.
Street side yard: 10 feet.
Rear yard: 5 feet for accessory structures and 10 feet for the dwelling unit.
Street rear yard: 10 feet.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019; Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019; Ord. No.
2020‐35, Att. A, 5‐5‐2020; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Atts. A, C, 1‐18‐2022)
Title 17 ‐ ZONING
Chapter 17.23 MIXED USE DISTRICTS IN THE BELFAIR UGA
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances
Page 14 of 72
17.22.160 Retail overlay area.
Within the R‐10 district, areas may be identified as a "retail overlay area" on the official zoning map for the
Belfair UGA. Mapping of such an area allows for commercial development similar to that allowed in the festival
retail district. Development allowed in the retail overlay areas must meet the bulk and dimensional requirements,
and design standards and guidelines of the festival retail district. Establishment of a retail overlay area requires
that the Belfair UGA plan be amended after a public participation process to allow such retail uses or that the
zoning map be amended after the applicant successfully demonstrates to the county that the general commercial
(GC) zoned lands east of the Burlington Northern Railroad line are built‐out.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Chapter 17.23 MIXED USE DISTRICTS IN THE BELFAIR UGA
17.23.010 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.010 which pertained
to the purpose of the "FR" festival retail district and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part), adopted
2004; Ord. No. 62‐09, Att. A, adopted July 7, 2009; and Ord. No. 124‐19, Att. A, adopted Dec. 17, 2019.
17.23.020 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.020 which pertained
to allowed uses and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004; and Ord. No. 124‐19, Att. A,
adopted Dec. 17, 2019.
17.23.030 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.030 which pertained
to accessory uses and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004; and Ord. No. 62‐09, Att. A,
adopted July 7, 2009
17.23.040 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.040 which pertained
to special uses and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004; and Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A,
adopted March 19, 2019.
17.23.045 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.045 which pertained
to prohibited uses and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004.
Page 15 of 72
17.23.050 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.050 which pertained
to bulk and dimensional standards and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004.
17.23.060 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.060 which pertained
to site design standards and guidelines and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004.
17.23.070 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.070 which pertained
to pedestrian and vehicular access standards and guidelines and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part),
adopted 2004.
17.23.080 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.080 which pertained
to building design standards and guidelines and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004.
17.23.090 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.090 which pertained
to landscaping design standards and guidelines and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part), adopted
2004.
17.23.100 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.100 which pertained
to non‐conforming uses and structures and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004.
17.23.110 Reserved.
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, adopted February 28, 2022, repealed § 17.23.110 which pertained
to applicability and derived from Ord. 133‐04, Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004.
17.23.120 "MU" Mixed use district—Purpose.
The primary purpose of this district is to provide for a mix of uses along the SR‐3 corridor and at the future
crossroads of Romance Hill Road and the planned alternative north/south access road. Permitted uses include
commercial, office, and residential uses. By allowing a broad array of uses, property owners have more choice in
how the land can be developed. Design standards allow developments to front on the street as long as they
provide pedestrian‐oriented facades—otherwise, developments must provide a landscaping buffer along the
street front to enhance the character of the area. Design standards also encourage pedestrian and vehicular
connectivity between properties. Building heights up three to five stories are permitted, with lower building
heights west of SR‐3. Otherwise, no specific density limits are provided (as they will be limited by parking
requirements, natural site constraints, and market constraints).
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
Page 16 of 72
17.23.130 Allowed uses.
Uses allowed in the MU district shall be as follows:
(1) Alcoholic beverage sales: package stores and wine shops;
(2) Antique shops;
(3) Appliance and communication equipment repair shop and/or sales;
(4) Art galleries and artist studios;
(5) Art and craft supplies, retail;
(6) Bakeries, with on‐site sales;
(7) Banks and financial institutions; Bars and taverns, other than those associated with full menu food
service;
(8) Barber and beauty shops; Bicycle shops;
(9) Bars and taverns, other than those associated with full menu food service; Book stores;
(10) Bicycle shops; Banks and financial institutions;
(11) Book stores; Barber and beauty shops;
(12) Building material sales;
(13) Churches;
(14) Commercial child care centers;
(15) Community centers;
(16) Clinics, including veterinary;
(17) Clothing sales and rentals and shoe stores;
(18) Delicatessens;
(19) Detached dwelling per lot (one);
(20) Dry cleaners and laundries, not including laundromats;
(201) Duplexes;
(212) Fabric and yard goods stores;
(223) Florists;
(234) Food specialty shops, including: baked goods, meats, health foods, candies;
(245) Funeral parlors, cremation and mortuary services;
(256) Furniture stores;
(267) Grocery stores;
(278) Gyms, fitness and aerobic studios;
(289) Hotels/motels;
(2930) Household specialty shops, including: plumbing, lighting, heating/cooling;
(301) Hardware stores;
Page 17 of 72
(312) Hobby shops;
(323) Jewelry stores;
(334) Laundromats;
(345) Light manufacturing of stone, clay, and glass products including: glass, pottery and china ceramic, stone
cutting and engraving;
(356) Light manufacturing of handcrafted products;
(367) Light manufacturing of computers, office machines and equipment manufacturing;
(378) Local utility system transmission lines and structures;
(389) Locksmiths;
(3940) Lumber and other building materials including pre‐assembled products;
(4041) Medical offices;
(412) Multi‐family dwelling units;
(423) Museums, libraries, and educational facilities (other than public schools);
(434) Music stores, recordings and instruments;
(445) Outside storage and display;
(456) Paint and glass shops;
(467) Parks;
(478) Pharmacies, dispensing;
(489) Photographic studios;
(4950) Printing, publishing and reproduction services;
(501) Professional offices;
(512) Public transportation: bus terminals, park and ride lots;
(523) Radio and television broadcasting stations;
(534) Recycling centers;
(545) Rental and leasing services: vehicles, furniture and tools;
(556) Research, development and testing services;
(567) Restaurants, cafes and food stands;
(578) Retail shops not otherwise named which are under ten thousand square feet;
(589) Second hand stores and pawn shops;
(5960) Service and repair shops for appliances, small equipment, and automobiles;
(601) Sporting goods stores;
(612) Stationary and office supply stores;
(623) Theaters, live stage;
(634) Theaters, motion picture;
(645) Townhouses;
Page 18 of 72
(656) Triplexes;
(667) Vehicle parts stores; and
(678) Wholesale trade uses.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 21‐13, Attach. A, 4‐16‐2013; Ord. No. 30‐13, Attach. A, 6‐4‐2013; Ord.
No. 53‐16, Att. A, 8‐16‐2016)
17.23.140 Special uses.
The following uses, subject to applicable licensing and development regulations, shall be allowed only with
approval of a conditional use permit. Consideration shall be given to the purpose and development standards of
the district including any adopted design standards or guidelines.
(1) Utility buildings and structures except transmission lines and structures.
(2) Commercial parking lots not associated with an on‐site use.
(3) Live entertainment except between the hours of 12:00 AM and 7:00 AM.
(4) Private transportation depot.
(5) Schools.
(6) Public sidewalk food and merchandise vendors including espresso and newsstands.
(7) Private recreation facilities including game arcades, batting cages, shooting galleries and skating rinks.
(8) Self‐storage facilities.
(9) (20) Dry cleaners and laundries, not including laundromats (must not be located in a CARA).;
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
17.23.145 Prohibited uses.
The following uses are prohibited:
(a) Adult entertainment.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.23.150 Bulk and dimensional standards.
Density: The maximum density shall be dictated by the applicable height limit, parking
requirements, design guidelines, site constraints, and market conditions.
Intensity: No requirements.
Minimum Lot Area: None.
Lot Dimensions: None.
Height: The maximum height of structures in the district shall be 55 feet, or as reviewed by
special use permit, with the following exception: The top of buildings or structures
(including rooflines but excluding church spires, bell towers, and chimneys) on the
Page 19 of 72
west side of SR‐3 shall not reach an elevation of more than 35 feet above the grade
level of the roadway, within 150 feet of the SR‐3 right‐of‐way.
Setbacks: See subsections 17.23.155(c), 17.23.165(b) and (c), and 17.31.020(7G) for required
setbacks, otherwise no setbacks are required.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. A, 1‐18‐2022)
17.23.155 Site design standards and guidelines.
(a) Intent.
(1) To upgrade the identity of downtown Belfair.
(2) To enhance the streetscape by minimizing the amount of driveway and parking areas visible from the
street in downtown.
(b) For properties fronting Old Belfair Highway, NE Roy Boad Road and The Old Beard'’s Place, and properties
fronting streets along or within the central triangle area between Clifton Way, SR‐3, and Old Belfair Highway,
provide pedestrian‐oriented street frontage. Specifically, no more than fifty percent of the linear street
frontage for commercially developed properties shall be occupied by driveways and parking areas. In other
words, at least fifty percent of the linear street frontage must either be:
(1) Landscaping: at least twenty feet of width of Landscape Type B, see MCC 17.31.020(6);
(2) Pedestrian oriented spaces (see definition): at least twenty feet in width;
(3) Pedestrian‐oriented facades (see definition);
(4) Any combination of the above.
Exception: alternative proposals will be considered where the applicant can demonstrate to the county that
such proposal can better meet the intent of the guidelines.
(c) Set back buildings adjacent to SR‐3 sufficient to accommodate the planned roadway configuration, planting
strip and sidewalk improvements per the Belfair urban growth area plan.
(d) Through compliance with frontage standards and mid‐block crossings, new development shall create a
network of primary and secondary pedestrian walkways in the central triangle area between Clifton Way, SR‐
3, and Old Belfair Highway.
(1) Intent. To improve the pedestrian environment downtown by making it easier, safer, and more
comfortable to walk between businesses, to the street sidewalk, to transit stops, and through parking
lots.
(2) Create a network of primary and secondary pedestrian walkways in the central triangle area between
Clifton Way, SR‐3, and Old Belfair Highway. These may be one direct route, a curvilinear route, or
several indirect routes depending on development opportunities, developer creativity, and constraints
on individual properties. Due to the size of the parcels in this area, it is recognized that such a
pedestrian network will likely be developed incrementally over time as properties redevelop. However,
these properties represent the focal point for downtown Belfair and the area is intended to become
the focal point for social, cultural, and festival retail activities in the community as well. The pedestrian
network should include at least one primary east‐west pedestrian route through the downtown area
and contain at least one primary north‐south walkway connecting to SR‐3. Applicants must
demonstrate how their proposal meets the guidelines below and provides for future extensions of the
pedestrian network. Specific guidelines:
Page 20 of 72
(A) Primary walkways in the network must be at least twelve feet in width. Other (secondary)
walkways should be sized and designed per subsection 17.25.020(e).
Exceptions:
(i) The county may approve a six‐foot wide pathway width where it can be demonstrated that
the primary walkway should follow an interior property line;
(ii) Where the primary walkway follows an interior roadway, the county may allow reduced
walkway widths to no less than eight feet.
(3) At least thirty‐three percent of the combined frontage on both sides of the primary walkway should
feature buildings with pedestrian‐oriented facades.
Definition: Pedestrian‐oriented facades contain transparent window area or window displays along at least
thirty‐three percent of the building's linear frontage. The primary building entries must be located along this
facade. Weather protection, including awnings, canopies, marquees, or overhangs, at least six feet in width
and ten foot in height clearance, must be provided along at least eighty percent of the building frontage,
(A) Where the primary walkway is adjacent to driveways or parking lots, provide street trees on the
applicable side at least thirty feet on‐center in planting strips (at least twenty square feet per
tree) or within tree grates.
(B) Provide pedestrian lighting (attached to buildings or placed on individual poles between twelve
and fourteen feet in height) to achieve two foot‐candles on the primary walkway's surface.
(C) Incorporate pedestrian amenities, including seating, landscaping, and public art, along primary
walkways. Specifically, one linear foot of seating (at least sixteen inches deep) should be provided
for every thirty square feet of corridor area. Seating may include benches, low seating walls,
steps, or, if properly designed, a planter edge or edge of a fountain.
(D) Untreated blank walls along primary walkways are prohibited.
Page 21 of 72
Figure 2. Illustrating one way new development could meet the site design ond pedestrian ond vehicular
access standards.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.23.160 Building design standards and guidelines.
(a) Intent.
(1) To encourage pedestrian activity downtown.
(2) To make businesses inviting.
(3) To add comfort and interest to the pedestrian experience along the street front.
(b) Buildings fronting on Old Belfair Highway and NE Roy Boad Road must feature pedestrian‐oriented facades
(see Figure 3). This includes:
(1) Transparent window area or window displays along at least fifty percent of the building's linear
frontage;
(2) Primary building entries located along this façade;
(3) Weather protection, including awnings, canopies, marquees, or overhangs, at least three feet in width,
provided along at least seventy‐five percent of the building frontage. Awnings may extend to within
four feet of the roadway curb, subject to Mason County building permit review.
Page 22 of 72
(c) Streets along and within the central triangle area between Clifton Way, SR‐3, and Old Belfair Highway shall
meet the provisions of (b)(2)and (b)(3).
Figure 3. Illustrating standards for pedestrian‐oriented facades.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.23.165 Landscaping design standards and guidelines.
(a) Intent. To mitigate the appearance of parking lots on the streetscape.
(b) The minimum landscaped area between SR‐3 and a parking, service, or outdoor storage area shall be at least
fifteen feet and include the following plantings (see Figure 5):
(1) An average of one tree per twenty linear feet of required landscaped area;
(2) An average of one shrub per twenty square feet of planting area. Shrubs shall be at least sixteen inches
tall at planting and have a mature height between three and four feet;
(3) Ground cover per 17.31.020(4d)(5) standards.
(c) The minimum landscaped area between all other public streets and a parking, service, or outdoor storage
area shall be at least ten feet and include the following plantings:
(1) An average of one tree per thirty linear feet of required landscaped area;
(2) An average of one shrub per twenty square feet of planting area. Shrubs shall be at least sixteen inches
tall at planting and have a mature height between three and four feet;
(3) Ground cover per 17.31.020(4d)(5) standards.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Page 23 of 72
Figure 5. Illustrating standards for landscaping buffers between a street and parking lot.
17.23.170 Non‐conforming uses and structures.
Legally established and continued non‐conforming uses and structures shall be allowed to remain subject to
the provisions of the Mason County development regulations except that in the mixed‐use district the following
allowances shall also apply to legally established structures and uses.
(1) Non‐Conforming Structures.
(A) A non‐conforming structure that is damaged or accidentally destroyed up to one hundred
percent may be replaced subject to the obtaining of a special use permit wherein compliance
where possible with the current design standards and guidelines shall be determined and
required.
(B) A non‐conforming structure may be enlarged, extended or structurally altered so long as any new
construction does not increase the non‐conforming aspects of the structure.
(2) Non‐Conforming Uses.
(A) A nonconforming use may continue so long as the associated structure is not enlarged by more
than twenty percent or the intensity of use of the property for commercial uses is not otherwise
increased.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.23.180 Applicability.
The provisions of this section and chapter shall apply to all new construction, applications for change of use
and/or alterations to existing structures.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Page 24 of 72
17.23.200 Master planned "MP‐MU" mixed use district—Purpose.
The purpose of this district is to provide for large‐scale master planned developments. This district allows a
mix of commercial and residential uses with a focus on business/industrial park development and multifamily
housing.
(Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.23.210 Allowed uses.
The uses permitted in the following zones are permitted in the master planned mixed use district:
(1) General commercial
(2) Mixed use
(Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.23.220 Special uses.
The special uses in the following zones are considered special uses in the master planned mixed use district,
unless otherwise permitted per 17.23.210:
(1) General commercial
(2) Mixed use
(Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.23.230 Bulk and dimensional standards.
Bulk and dimensional standards of the mixed use zone shall apply.
(Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.23.240 Site design standards and guidelines.
Proposals shall meet the UGA design standards found in Chapters 17.25 through 17.35.
(Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.23.250 Building design standards and guidelines.
Building design standards and guidelines of MCC Chapter 17.30 shall apply.
(Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.23.260 Landscaping design standards and guidelines.
(a) Landscaping standards and guidelines of Chapter 17.31 shall apply except where amended below.
(b) Landscaping design standards and guidelines in MU‐MP shall include the following:
Page 25 of 72
(1) Intent.
(A) To mitigate the appearance of parking lots on the streetscape.
(B) To enhance the appearance of the SR‐3 corridor.
(2) The minimum landscaped area between SR‐3, north of the railroad, and a parking, service, or outdoor
storage area shall be at least thirty feet and include the following plantings (see Figure 5);
(A) An average of one tree per twenty linear feet of required landscaped area;
(B) An average of one shrub per twenty square feet of planting area. Shrubs shall be at least sixteen
inches tall at planting and have a mature height between three and four feet;
(C) Ground cover per 17.31.020(4d)(5) standards.
(3) The minimum landscaped area between SR‐3, south of the railroad, and a parking, service, or outdoor
storage area shall be at least fifteen feet and include the following plantings:
(A) An average of one tree per thirty linear feet of required landscaped area;
(B) An average of one shrub per twenty square feet of planting area. Shrubs shall be at least sixteen
inches tall at planting and have a mature height between three and four feet;
(C) Ground cover per 17.31.020(4d)(5) standards.
(4) The minimum landscaped area between all other streets and a parking, service, or outdoor storage
area shall be at least ten feet and include the following plantings:
(A) An average of one tree per thirty linear feet of required landscaped area;
(B) An average of one shrub per twenty square feet of planting area. Shrubs shall be at least sixteen
inches tall at planting and have a mature height between three and four feet;
(C) Ground cover per 17.31.020(4d)(5) standards.
(c) The following substitute landscape buffers shall apply to create transitional landscape standards between
higher intensity uses and lower intensity uses. Chapter 17.31 Table 3 applicable landscape types shall be
applied except as follows:
(1) Category 3, 4, aond 5 uses abutting Categories 1,2, and 3 uses
(A) Twenty‐foot Type A
(B) Thirty‐foot Type B
(C) Forty‐foot Type C
(2) Category 6 uses abutting Categories 1, 2, and 3 uses
(A) Thirty‐foot Type A
(B) Forty‐foot Type B
(C) Fifty‐foot Type C
(Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.23.280 Master plan.
See MCC 17.70 Master development plans.
(Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
Page 26 of 72
17.23.290 Non‐conforming uses and structures.
Legally established and non‐conforming uses and structures shall be allowed to remain subject to the
provisions of the Mason County development regulations.
(Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.23.300 Applicability.
The provisions of this section and chapter shall apply to all new construction, applications for change of use
and/or alterations to existing structures.
(Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
Chapter 17.24 COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS IN THE BELFAIR UGA
17.24.010 "GC" General commercial district—Purpose.
The primary purpose of this district is to provide areas that offer a wide range of consumer goods and
services for Belfair UGA residents, regional residents, and the traveling public. It is further intended to group
buildings and business establishments in a manner that creates convenient, attractive and safe development.
Design standards promote safe vehicular and pedestrian access between properties. The district also provides
standards intended to add visual interest in the developments. Landscaping standards are provided to add visual
interest and mitigate the impacts of parking lots on the SR‐3 corridor, other streets, and the visual environment
within the development. Building heights are limited to three stories. All business shall be conducted within
enclosed buildings, except for approved outdoor storage, display, food vendors, and dining areas.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.24.020 Allowed uses.
Uses with a total building size under fifty thousand square feet shall be allowed in the GC [general
commercial] district as follows:
(1) Alcoholic beverage sales: package stores and wine shops;
(2) Antique shops;
(3) Appliance and communication equipment repair shops and/or sales;
(4) Art galleries and artist studios;
(5) Art and craft supplies, retail;
(6) Bakeries, with on site sales;
(7) Banks and financial institutions; Bars and taverns other than those associated with full menu food
service;
(8) Barber and beauty shops; Bicycle shops;
(9) Bars and taverns other than those associated with full menu food service; Book stores;
(10) Banks and financial institutions; Bicycle shops;
Page 27 of 72
(11) Book stores; Barber and beauty shops;
(12) Building material sales;
(13) Churches;
(14) Clinics including veterinary; Commercial child care centers;
(15) Clinics including veterinary; Clothing sales and rentals and shoe stores;
(16) Clothing sales and rentals and shoe stores; Commercial child care centers;
(17) Delicatessens;
(18) Dry cleaners and laundries not including laundromats;
(189) Fabric and yard goods stores;
(1920) Florists;
(201) Food specialty shops, including: baked goods, meats, health foods, candies;
(212) Funeral parlors, cremation and mortuary services;
(223) Furniture stores;
(234) Grocery stores;
(245) Gyms, fitness and aerobic studios;
(256) Hardware stores; Hotels/motels;
(267) Hobby shops; Household specialty shops, including: plumbing, lighting, heating/cooling;
(278) Hardware stores; Hotels/motels;
(289) Hobby shops; Household specialty shops, including: plumbing, lighting, heating/cooling;
(2930) Jewelry stores;
(301) Laundromats;
(312) Light manufacturing of stone, clay, and glass products including: glass, pottery and china ceramic, stone
cutting and engraving;
(323) Light manufacturing of handcrafted products;
(334) Light manufacturing of computers, office machines and equipment manufacturing;
(345) Local utility system transmission lines and structures;
(356) Locksmiths;
(367) Lumber and other building materials including pre‐assembled products;
(378) Medical offices;
(389) Music stores, recordings and instruments;
(3940) Outside storage and display;
(401) Paint and glass shops;
(412) Pharmacies, dispensing;
(423) Photographic studios;
(434) Printing, publishing and reproduction services;
Page 28 of 72
(445) Professional offices;
(456) Public transportation: bus terminals, park and ride lots;
(467) Radio and television broadcasting stations;
(478) Recycling centers;
(489) Rental and leasing services: vehicles, furniture and tools;
(4950) Research, development and testing services;
(501) Restaurants, cafes and food stands;
(512) Retail uses not otherwise named;
(523) Second hand stores and pawn shops; Service and repair shops for appliances, small equipment and
automobiles;
(534) Second hand stores and pawn shops; Service and repair shops for appliances, small equipment and
automobiles;
(545) Sporting goods stores;
(556) Stationary and office supply stores;
(567) Theaters, live stage;
(578) Theaters, motion picture;
(589) Vehicle parts stores; and
(5960) Wholesale trade uses.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 21‐13, Attach. A, 4‐16‐2013; Ord. No. 30‐13, Attach. A, 6‐4‐2013; Ord.
No. 53‐16, Att. A, 8‐16‐2016)
17.24.030 Special uses.
The following uses, subject to applicable licensing and development regulations, shall be allowed only with
approval of a conditional special use permit. Consideration shall be given to the purpose and development
standards of the district including any adopted design standards or guidelines.
(1) Light manufacturing.
(2) Utility buildings and structures except transmission lines and structures.
(3) Commercial parking lots not associated with an on‐site use.
(4) Private transportation depot.
(5) Schools.
(6) Public sidewalk food and merchandise vendors including espresso and newsstands.
(7) Private recreation facilities including game arcades, batting cages, shooting galleries and skating rinks.
(8) All uses permitted in the business‐industrial district provided the following conditions isare met:
(A) Site is identified as a "general‐commercial—business‐industrial overlay" on the official zoning
map for the Belfair UGA;
(B) Development must comply with all bulk and dimensional and design standards and guidelines of
Chapter 17.24, Business Industrial District.
Page 29 of 72
(9) All uses listed as allowed, in Section 17.24.020, where the building exceed fifty thousand square feet.
(10) Adult entertainment provided that the proposed property is at least three hundred feet from existing
residences, schools and churches and at least three hundred feet from the nearest district allowing
residential uses.
(11) Dry cleaners and laundries not including laundromats (must not be located in a CARA).
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.24.040 Bulk and dimensional standards.
Density: The maximum density shall be dictated by the applicable height limit, parking
requirements, design guidelines, site constraints, and market conditions.
Intensity: No requirements.
Minimum Lot Area: None.
Lot Dimensions: None.
Height: The maximum height of structures in the district shall be 35 feet, or as reviewed by
special use permit.
Setbacks: Front Yard: 30 feet along SR‐3 east of the railroad. See subsections 17.24.045(c),
17.24.050(b), (c), and (d) and 17.31.020(g) for required setbacks, otherwise no
setbacks are required.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. A, 1‐18‐2022)
17.24.045 Site design standards and guidelines.
(a) Intent.
(1) To enhance the appearance of highly visible sites.
(b) Enhance the appearance of street corners on SR‐3. Development of street corner properties should
contribute to a sense of community and/or the demarcation of the area. Specifically, all development
proposals for sites adjacent to public street intersections along the SR‐3 corridor should include at least one
of the design treatments described below (See Figure 1).
(1) Locate a building towards the street corner (within fifteen feet of corner property line). Building
facades located here are encouraged to include a special architectural element, such as a raised
roofline, towers, or an extended parapet, along the most visible views of the structure.
(2) Provide a pedestrian walkway and/or plaza space at the corner leading directly to a building entry or
shopping plaza space. May be appropriate in conjunction with an approved monument sign.
(3) Install substantial landscaping (at least two hundred square feet of ground surface area with trees,
shrubs, and or ground cover. May be appropriate in conjunction with an approved monument sign.
(c) Setback buildings adjacent to SR‐3 sufficient to accommodate the planned roadway configuration, planting
strip and sidewalk improvements per the Belfair urban growth area plan.
Page 30 of 72
Figure 1. Street corner design options.1
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 2022‐014, Exh. B‐2, 2‐28‐2022)
17.24.050 Landscaping design standards and guidelines.
(a) Intent.
(1) To mitigate the appearance of parking lots on the streetscape.
(2) To enhance the appearance of the SR‐3 corridor.
(b) The minimum landscaped area between SR‐3, north of the railroad, and a parking, service, or outdoor
storage area shall be at least thirty feet and include the following plantings (see Figure 5):
(1) An average of one tree per twenty linear feet of required landscaped area;
(2) An average of one shrub per twenty square feet of planting area. Shrubs shall be at least sixteen inches
tall at planting and have a mature height between three and four feet;
(3) Ground cover per 17.31.020(4d)(5) standards.
(c) The minimum landscaped area between SR‐3, south of the railroad, and a parking, service, or outdoor
storage area shall be at least fifteen feet and include the following plantings:
(1) An average of one tree per thirty linear feet of required landscaped area;
(2) An average of one shrub per twenty square feet of planting area. Shrubs shall be at least sixteen inches
tall at planting and have a mature height between three and four feet;
(3) Ground cover per 17.31.020(4d)(5) standards.
(d) The minimum landscaped area between all other streets and a parking, service, or outdoor storage area shall
be at least ten feet and include the following plantings:
(1) An average of one tree per thirty linear feet of required landscaped area;
(2) An average of one shrub per twenty square feet of planting area. Shrubs shall be at least sixteen inches
tall at planting and have a mature height between three and four feet;
(3) Ground cover per 17.31.020(4d)(5) standards.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
1Moved from 17.23.060
Page 31 of 72
17.24.055 Non‐conforming uses and structures.
Legally established and continued non‐conforming uses and structures shall be allowed to remain subject to
the provisions of this chapter except that in the general commercial district the following allowances shall also
apply to a legally established structures and uses.
(1) Non‐Conforming Structures.
(A) A non‐conforming structure that is damaged or accidentally destroyed up to one hundred
percent may be replaced subject to the obtaining of a special use permit wherein compliance
where possible with the current design standards and guidelines shall be determined and
required.
(B) A non‐conforming structure may be enlarged, extended or structurally altered so long as any new
construction does not increase the non‐conforming aspects of the structure.
(2) Non‐Conforming Uses.
(A) A nonconforming use may continue so long as the associated structure is not enlarged by more
than twenty percent or the intensity of use of the property for commercial uses is not otherwise
increased.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.24.060 Applicability.
The provision of this section and chapter shall apply to all new construction, applications for change of use
and /or alterations to existing structures.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.24.070 "BI" Business industrial district—Purpose.
The primary purpose of this district is to provide for the location and grouping of industrial enterprises and
activities involving manufacturing, assembly, fabrication, processing, bulk handling and storage, research facilities,
warehousing and heavy trucking. It is also a purpose of this zone to protect the industrial land base for industrial
economic development and employment opportunities. These purposes are accomplished by:
(1) Allowing for a wide range of industrial and manufacturing uses;
(2) Limiting retail uses to those necessary to directly support industrial activities;
(3) Prohibiting residential uses.
Maximum building heights in the district are three stories. Substantial landscaping buffers are required for
those properties adjacent to SR‐3. Business‐industrial properties are exempted from most other site planning and
building design guidelines to maximize flexibility for the uses.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.24.080 Allowed uses.
Uses allowed in the BI district shall be as follows:
(1) Automobile, appliance and equipment repair services;
Page 32 of 72
(2) Dry cleaning plants;
(23) Auto parts yards; Veterinary clinics;
(34) Business service uses; Vocational schools;
(45) Fuel depot; Institutional uses;
(56) Business service uses; Impound yard;
(67) Institutional uses; Truck dealers;
(78) Auto parts yards; Manufacturing uses;
(89) Manufacturing uses; Professional office uses;
(910) Resource land uses;
(101) Professional office uses; Towing services;
(112) Truck dealers; Impound yard;
(123) Towing services; and Veterinary clinics;
(134) Vocational schools; Fuel depotand.
(14) Warehouse, distribution.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 21‐13, Attach. A, 4‐16‐2013; Ord. No. 30‐13, Attach. A, 6‐4‐2013; Ord.
No. 53‐16, Att. A, 8‐16‐2016)
17.24.090 Accessory uses.
The following uses are permitted only as they are ancillary to the primary allowed uses and may or may not
require a special license or permit in addition to holding a building permits:
(1) Retail sales, not to exceed ten percent of the building's area.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.24.100 Special uses.
The following uses, subject to applicable licensing and development regulations, shall be allowed only with
approval of a conditional use permit. Consideration shall be given to the purpose and development standards of
the district including any adopted design standards or guidelines.
(1) (1) Adult entertainment provided that the proposed property is at least three hundred feet from
existing residences, schools and churches and at least three hundred feet from the nearest district
allowing residential uses.
(2) Dry cleaning plants (must not be located in a CARA).;
(2)
(32) Self‐storage facilities.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
Page 33 of 72
17.24.110 Bulk and dimensional standards.
Density: The maximum density shall be dictated by the applicable height limit, parking
requirements, design guidelines, site constraints, and market conditions.
Intensity: No requirements.
Minimum Lot Area: None.
Lot Dimensions: None.
Height: The maximum height of structures in the district shall be 35 feet, or as reviewed by
special use permit.
Setbacks: Front Yard: 30 feet along SR‐3; 15 feet all other streets. See subsections
17.234.1255(cB) for applicable requirements along SR‐3.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 52‐19, att. A, 6‐4‐2019; Ord. No. 2022‐006, Att. A, 1‐18‐2022)
17.24.115 Landscaping design standards and guidelines.
(a) Intent. To mitigate the appearance of business‐industrial uses along the SR‐3 corridor.
(b) The minimum landscaped area between SR‐3 and a parking, service, or outdoor storage area or building shall
be at least thirty feet where Type A Landscaping is used and sixty feet if Type B or C Landscaping is used [see
subsection 17.31.020(7g) for standards].
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.24.120 Non‐conforming uses and structures.
Legally established and continued non‐conforming uses and structures shall be allowed to remain subject to
the provisions of this chapter except that in the business‐industrial district the following allowances shall also apply
to a legally established structures and uses.
(1) Non‐Conforming Structures.
(A) A non‐conforming structure that is damaged or accidentally destroyed up to one hundred
percent may be replaced subject to the obtaining of a special use permit wherein compliance
where possible with the current design standards and guidelines shall be determined and
required.
(B) A non‐conforming structure may be enlarged, extended or structurally altered so long as any new
construction does not increase the non‐conforming aspects of the structure.
(2) Non‐Conforming Uses.
(A) A nonconforming use may continue so long as the associated structure is not enlarged by more
than twenty percent or the intensity of use of the property for commercial uses is not otherwise
increased.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.24.125 Applicability.
The provisions of this section and chapter shall apply to all new construction, applications for change of use
and /or alterations to existing structures.
Page 34 of 72
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Chapter 17.25 PEDESTRIAN ACCESS AND AMENITIES
17.25.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to:
(1) Improve the pedestrian environment by making it easier, safer and more comfortable to walk between
businesses and properties, to the street sidewalk, to transit stops, and through parking lots;
(2) Promote walking both as a social activity and an alternative to driving;
(3) Develop an expansive trail system linking all land uses with parks, open space, and other trails.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.25.020 Standards.
The following standards apply to all non‐single family residential development unless the standard notes
otherwise. The Mason County director of community development may waive one or more of these standards
where the applicant can demonstrate that such pedestrian access and/or amenities are not applicable or desirable
due to the nature of the use (i.e., industrial or mini‐storage) and/or incompatibilities with adjacent properties.
(1) Commercial and multi‐family developments where possible shall provide pedestrian access onto the
site from the main street off of which the use is located. Where a use fronts two streets, access shall be
provided from the road closest to the main entrance or, preferably, from both streets.
(2) New developments shall provide sidewalk and planting strip improvements in conjunction with new
development activity per the Belfair urban growth area plan standards.
(3) New developments should be integrated with and expand upon the existing and planned Belfair UGA
trail network. To implement this guideline, the county may require that the pedestrian walkway(s) of a
development provide connections to an adjacent trail system, if there is one.
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Figure 6. Proposed Belfair UGA trail network improvements.
(4) New developments should include a circulation system that connects buildings, open spaces, parking
areas, and the adjacent street sidewalk system. Commercial and multi‐family uses should provide a
pedestrian connection to adjacent commercial and/or multifamily uses where desirable and possible to
encourage multiple‐task trips, more efficient parking, and a high‐quality pedestrian ambience. Also,
connections to transit uses and adjacent properties are particularly important and may be required by
the county.
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Figure 7. Developments should include a circulation system that connects buildings, open spaces, parking
areas, and the adjacent street sidewalk system.
(5) New developments shall provide for adequate interior walkway widths and surfaces. Specifically,
applicants must demonstrate to the county how the proposed walkway system will be designed to
handle projected usage as provided by the following guidelines:
(A) The paving surface on all pedestrian paths should be appropriate to their use:
(i) Concrete, brick or other decorative hard‐surfaced pavements for interior pedestrian
walkways, building entries, or parking lot pathways,
(ii) Seamless materials like asphalt for multi‐purpose pathways,
(iii) Crushed gravel for nature trails,
(iv) Wood for boardwalks,
(B) The following design criteria for pedestrian paths should be applied:
(i) Four foot wide walkways for low pedestrian volumes,
(ii) Six foot wide walkways will allow two people to walk side‐by‐side and is suitable where
moderate pedestrian activity is expected,
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(iii) Twelve foot wide walkways will allow two groups of two people walking side‐byside to pass
and are appropriate for the heavily used walkways and communitywide trails.
(6) New developments shall provide pedestrian‐oriented spaces in all commercial, office, and mixed‐use
developments. Specifically:
(A) Developments with less than thirty thousand square feet of gross floor area of commercial,
office, and mixed‐use buildings are encouraged to provide pedestrian‐oriented space at a ratio of
one hundred square feet for every ten thousand square feet of gross floor area of building;
(B) Developments with at least thirty thousand square feet of gross floor area of commercial, office,
and mixed‐use buildings are required to provide pedestrian‐oriented space at a ratio of one
hundred square feet for every ten thousand square feet of gross floor area of building.
(7) To qualify as a "pedestrian‐oriented space, the following must be addressed:
(A) Provide direct pedestrian access from the adjacent roadways;
(B) Provide a walking surface with unit pavers or concrete with special texture, pattern, and/or
decorative features;
(C) Incorporate pedestrian amenities, including seating, landscaping, and public art;
(D) Provide pedestrian lighting, preferably below fifteen feet in height;
(8) A "pedestrian‐oriented space" may have and is encouraged to have the following features:
(A) Active retail uses on the building façade(s) facing the space;
(B) A location in areas with significant pedestrian traffic to provide interest and security—such as
adjacent to a building entry;
(C) Provision of weather protection features on building facades fronting the space;
(D) Location, orientation, and/or mitigating structures designed with consideration of the sun and
wind;
(E) Additional pedestrian amenities, including but not limited to: public art, movable chairs and
tables, and extra landscaping features.
(9) A "pedestrian‐oriented space" shall not have:
(A) Asphalt or gravel pavement;
(B) Adjacent unscreened parking lots;
(C) Adjacent chain link fences;
(D) Adjacent "blank walls" without "blank wall treatment";
(E) Adjacent dumpsters or service areas.
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Figure 8. An example of pedestrian‐oriented space.
(10) New development shall provide pathways through parking lots. A specially marked or paved crosswalk
must be provided through parking lots greater than one hundred fifty feet long (measured parallel to
the street front) or more than two bays deep (approximately seventy‐five feet measured perpendicular
from street front). Generally, walkways should be provided at least every one hundred fifty feet
measured perpendicularly to the building face with a main entry. This distance should be considered
somewhat flexible to account for the length of the parking lot and driveway locations. Additional
design criteria:
(A) Pathways should be curbed and raised at least six inches above the parking lot grade except
where they cross driveways or aisles or where necessary to meet handicap requirements.
Alternatively, the County may approve walkways delineated by a distinctive paving material or
marking when adequate pedestrian safety is provided.
(B) Pathways must be at least four feet wide, exclusive of parked car overhangs. Where necessary to
ensure four feet of unobstructed walkway, wheel stops are required.
(C) Where pathways cross parking areas, contrasting materials or markings such as white concrete in
an asphalt area or visually obvious paint stripes are required to define pathways.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
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Figure 9. Illustrating standards for pathways through parking lots.
Chapter 17.26 PRIVATE OPEN SPACE FOR MULTI‐FAMILY DEVELOPMENTS
17.26.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to provide inviting and well‐designed outdoor spaces for residents.
17.26.020 Standards.
The following standards apply to all multi family residential development unless noted otherwise:
(1) All multi‐family developments shall provide usable open space per the following:
(A) Three hundred square feet per unit for ground based units such as townhomes,
(B) Ten percent of the net developable area for all other multi‐family developments such apartment
buildings,
(C) For residential development within a mixed‐use building, provide a usable open space or spaces
equal to or greater than ten percent the size of the applicable building's gross floor area.
Calculations for gross floor area shall exclude area used for mechanical equipment, accessory
parking, and outdoor decks and balconies. Onsite ground floor pedestrian oriented space may be
used in the calculations for required usable open space;
(2) Configure buildings to create usable open space by providing one or more of the following:
(A) Landscaped courtyards, gardens, or commons usable by residents and visible from dwelling units
to enhance security,
(B) Individual outdoor spaces for all ground floor units. This is most appropriate for new townhouses
or other ground‐related housing,
(C) Balconies, well‐defined patios, terrace open spaces, and rooftop decks. Rooftop decks are the
least preferred type of open space,
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(D) Play areas for children, visible from dwelling units and located away from arterial streets, parking
lots and on‐site drainage facilities;
Note: Required landscape buffer areas shall not be considered usable open space.
(3) Usable open spaces should be positioned in areas with significant pedestrian traffic to provide interest
and security;
(4) Integrate natural features into usable open space, when feasible;
(5) Paths, seating, lighting and other pedestrian amenities should be utilized to make open spaces more
functional and enjoyable;
(6) Minimum required landscaped buffer areas shall not be included in calculations for the required usable
open space.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
Figure 10. Examples of usable open space for multi family development.
Chapter 17.27 INTERIOR VEHICULAR ACCESS IN THE BELFAIR UGA
17.27.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to:
(1) Minimize negative impacts on the streetscape and pedestrian environment;
(2) Encourage a safe and convenient network of vehicular circulation;
(3) Create attractive vehicular routes that also accommodate pedestrian access and amenities;
(4) Minimize negative impacts of parking lots on the streetscape and pedestrian environment;
(5) Promote shared parking between compatible uses.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
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17.27.020 Standards.
The following standards apply to all non‐single family residential development unless noted otherwise. The
Mason County director of the department of community development may waive one or more of these standards
where the applicant can demonstrate that such vehicular access standard(s) is not applicable or desirable due to
the nature of the site or use (i.e., industrial or mini‐storage) and/or incompatibilities with adjacent properties (i.e.,
connections to an existing incompatible use on an adjacent property).
(1) For properties adjacent to SR‐3 and other defined highways and arterial roadways, new driveways shall
be no more than thirty feet wide and shall be defined by a curb, berm, or other pavement element. No
more than one driveway per parcel or one driveway per three hundred feet on a single parcel shall be
allowed onto or from SR‐3.
Exceptions:
(A) Traffic analysis demonstrates the need for more than one driveway;
(B) On‐site circulation or access to truck loading facilities cannot be accommodated by only one
driveway;
(C) Wider driveways (up to forty feet) would be allowed if traffic volumes generated by the site
require two exiting lanes (one left turn and one right turn lane) and/or if the site generates a high
volume of large trucks that require a wider driveway;
(D) Where an additional or wider driveway is required by the fire department for safe fire apparatus
access.
(2) For new commercial development projects, strive to create major driveways that serve more than one
property and/or business. Cross‐access easements for adjoining properties may be required by the
county, where necessary.
(3) Consider the alignment with driveways on the opposite side of SR‐3 when determining driveway
location for new and consolidated/shared driveways. Driveways across SR‐3 should align or be offset
such that the left‐turning vehicles out of the driveways do not conflict. This may be required by the
county.
(4) Properties adjacent to SR‐3 and other defined highways and arterial roadways shall not locate their
parking lots adjacent to street intersections unless the county finds that no other alternative is feasible
to accommodate permitted development.
(5) Developments shall provide automobile connections to adjacent properties, through the use of cross
access easements, common entryways, shared internal roadways, and/or shared parking lots, and
similar techniques where possible.
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Figure 11. Example developments illustrating key vehicular access guidelines.
(6) Commercial developers and retail property owners are encouraged to share parking lots between
adjacent businesses. The construction of walls or other barriers that prohibit pedestrian access is
prohibited unless the county determines that such barrier is necessary for safety or environmental
reasons.
(7) Where adjacent parking lots are not consolidated, joint pedestrian access shall be provided between
developments.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Chapter 17.28 OFF‐STREET PARKING IN THE BELFAIR UGA
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17.28.010 Cooperative off‐street parking.
Any two or more uses may establish cooperative off‐street parking, and where it can be presented to Mason
County that the hours of traffic generation on the part of the two land uses appear at different times of the day,
the off‐street parking provisions for each can be credited to the same off‐street parking areas provided
cooperatively.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.28.020 Minimum off‐street parking requirements.
(a) For purposes of defining off‐street parking, the floor area of each level of a building shall exclude areas
devoted to storage, restrooms, corridors, hallways, entries, stairways, elevators, decks, equipment, utility
rooms and kitchens not to be occupied by clientele, and other areas for utility purposes not connected with
general conduct of business for which office or sales space is provided.
(b) Off‐street parking areas shall contain the number of parking spaces stipulated in "Table 1 General Residential
Parking Standards" and "Table 2 General Non‐Residential Parking Standards" below. A use which is similar to
any of the below‐referenced uses shall adhere to the minimum parking requirements for the referenced use
or uses. Mason County shall determine the minimum parking requirements for a use that is not referenced in
this section.
Table 1
General Residential Parking Standards.
RESIDENTIAL USE MINIMUM
SPACES REQUIRED
MAXIMUM SPACES
ALLOWED
Dwelling units—single family: 2.0 per dwelling unit No maximum
Dwelling units—multiple‐family:
Studio units: 1.0 per dwelling unit 1.5 per dwelling unit
One‐bedroom units: 1.5 per dwelling unit 2.0 per dwelling unit
Two‐bedroom units: 2.0 per dwelling unit 2.5 per dwelling unit
Three‐bedroom or more units: 2.0 per dwelling unit 3.0 per dwelling unit
Retirement homes: 0.8 per dwelling unit 1.5 per dwelling unit
Rest homes, nursing and
convalescent homes:
0.3 per bed 1.0 per bed
Congregate care facilities: 0.5 per dwelling unit 1.5 per dwelling unit
Table 2
General Non‐Residential Parking Standards.
NON‐RESIDENTIAL USE MINIMUM
SPACES REQUIRED
MAXIMUM
SPACES ALLOWED
Churches, synagogues and
temples:
1.0 per 4 fixed seats plus 1.0 per 50
sq. ft. of gross floor area without
fixed seats for assembly purposes.
Day care facilities and pre‐schools: 2.0 plus 1.0 per employee 5.0 plus 1.0 per employee
Financial institutions: 3.0 per 1,000 square feet 5.0 per 1,000 square feet
Food stores and markets: 3.0 per 1,000 square feet 5.0 per 1,000 square feet
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Governmental buildings, studios,
professional and business offices:
3.0 per 1,000 square feet 5.0 per 1,000 square feet
Hotels/motels: 1.0 per room plus 1.0 per
employee on any given shift
Medical offices: 3.0 per 1,000 square feet 5.0 per 1,000 square feet
Manufacturing facilities: 1.0 per 1,000 square feet
Personal services:
Without fixed stations: 3.0 per 1,000 square feet 5.0 per 1,000 square feet
With fixed stations: 1.5 per station 2.0 per station
Restaurants and cafeterias: 8.0 per 1,000 square feet 15.0 per 1,000 square feet
Retail sales and service stores: 3.0 per 1,000 square feet 5.0 per 1,000 square feet
Service stations: 3.0 per facility plus 1.0 per service
bay plus 3.0 per 1,000 sq. ft. for
store
Theaters: 1 per 4 fixed seats and/or 1 per 100
sq. ft. of gross floor area without
fixed seats for assembly purposes
Wholesale and warehouse uses: 1.0 per 1,000 square feet
(c) An applicant may request a modification of the minimum or maximum required number of parking spaces by
providing a study that substantiates parking demand can/should be met with a reduced/increased parking
requirement. In such cases, Mason County may approve a reduction of up to fifty percent of the minimum
required number of spaces or an increase of up to twenty‐five percent of the maximum required number of
spaces. Said study shall be prepared by a qualified professional approved by Mason County.
(d) When the county has received a shell building permit application, off‐street parking requirements shall be
based on the possible tenant improvements or uses authorized by the zone designation and compatible with
the limitation of the shell permit. In industrial developments, a minimum of twenty percent of gross floor
area shall be assumed as office when calculating parking requirements. When the range of possible uses
result in different parking requirements, Mason County will establish the amount of parking based on a likely
range of uses.
(e) In any non‐business‐ibndustrial development required to provide six or more parking spaces, bicycle parking
shall be provided. Bicycle parking shall be bike rack or locker‐type parking facilities unless otherwise
specified.
(f) Off‐street parking areas shall contain at least one bicycle parking space for every twelve spaces required for
motor vehicles except as follows:
(1) Mason County may reduce bike rack parking facilities for patrons when it is demonstrated that bicycle
activity will not occur at that location;
(2) Mason County may require additional spaces when it is determined that the use or its location will
generate a high volume of bicycle activity. Such a determination will include but not be limited to the
following uses:
(A) Park/playfield,
(B) Marina,
(C) Library/museum/arboretum,
(D) Elementary/secondary school,
(E) Sports club, or
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(F) Retail business (especially when located along a developed or projected bicycle trail or
designated bicycle route).
(g) Bicycle facilities for patrons shall be located within one hundred feet of the building entrance and shall be
designed to allow either a bicycle frame or wheels to be locked to a structure attached to the pavement.
(h) All bicycle parking and storage shall be located in safe and visible areas that do not impede pedestrian or
vehicle traffic flow and shall be well lit for nighttime use.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Chapter 17.29 SERVICE AND STORAGE AREAS IN THE BELFAIR UGA
17.29.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to screen the negative impacts of service and storage areas on the pedestrian
environment.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.29.020 Standards.
The following standards apply to all development except for single family developments and developments
in the business‐industrial district:
(1) Service elements shall be located to minimize the impacts on the pedestrian environment and adjacent
uses. Service elements should generally be concentrated and located where they are designed for easy
access by service vehicles and for convenient access by tenants;
Figure 12. Site service elements to minimize their impacts on the pedestrian environment.
(2) Garbage, recycling collection and utility areas that are visible from a public street, park, or neighboring
property shall be enclosed and screened around their perimeter by a wall or fence at least seven feet
high and have self‐closing doors. If the area is adjacent to a public street or pedestrian alley, a
landscaped planting strip, minimum three feet wide, shall be located on three sides of such facility;
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Figure 13. Screen service elements.
(3) Screen fences should be made of masonry, ornamental metal or wood, or some combination of the
three. The use of chain link, plastic or wire fencing is prohibited;
(4) Roof‐mounted mechanical equipment should be located so as not to be visible from the street, public
open spaces, parking areas, or from the ground level of adjacent properties. Screening features should
blend with the architectural character of the building;
(5) Outdoor storage areas, when permitted, must be screened from the view of public streets, parking
areas, pedestrian pathways, open space, and adjacent properties per the screen fence standards per
above or by providing at least fifteen feet of Type A Landscaping per subsection 17.31.020(7g) around
the perimeter of the storage area.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Chapter 17.30 BUILDING DESIGN REQUIREMENTS IN THE BELFAIR UGA
17.30.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to:
(1) Reduce the bulk and mass of large buildings.
(2) Add visual interest to buildings.
(3) Retain Belfair's small town character.
(4) Encourage the utilization of design details and small‐scale elements in the design of buildings so that
they are attractive at a pedestrian scale.
(5) Achieve a human scale by including elements that provide visual clues to the size of the building and
activity within.
(6) Encourage pedestrian activity.
(7) Encourage the use of high quality and durable building materials.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
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17.30.020 Standards.
The following standards apply to all commercial and multi‐family development unless otherwise noted
(developments in the B‐I zone are exempted). The Mason County planning director may waive one or more of
these standards where the applicant can demonstrate that such building design standards are not applicable since
the applicable building or buildings are screened from public view from the street or adjacent properties and such
design features are not typically found on buildings proposed for the subject use (retail and multi family uses shall
not be exempted in any case).
(1) Multi‐story buildings shall include modulation and/or articulation features. Specifically, commercial
buildings shall provide at least two of the modulation and articulation features listed below along the
street front or primary façade at intervals of no more than fifty feet. Multi‐family buildings shall
provide at least two of the modulation and articulation features below along the street front or
primary façade at intervals of no more than forty feet.
Modulation and/or articulation methods:
(A) Providing building modulation of at least six feet in depth and six feet in width (required for multi
family residential buildings);
(B) Repeating distinctive window patterns at intervals less than the articulation interval;
(C) Providing a porch, patio, deck, or covered entry for each articulation interval;
(D) Providing a balcony or bay window for each articulation interval;
(E) Changing the roofline by alternating dormers, stepped roofs, gables, or other roof elements to
reinforce the modulation or articulation interval;
(F) Changing materials and/or color with a change in building plane;
(G) Providing lighting fixtures, trellis, tree, or other landscape features within each interval;
(H) Using recessed building entries, plazas, courtyards, or seating and plantings areas;
(I) Using alternative methods to shape a building such as angled or curved façade elements, offset
planes, or terracing;
(J) Using other methods as approved by the county as long as they meet the intent of the standards.
Figure 14. An example of building articulation.
(2) Buildings greater than one hundred feet in length along the street front and/or primary façade should
provide an additional special design features (for example: a broken or articulated roofline, inset or
gabled entry, dormer, chimney, stepped roof, gable, prominent cornice or fascia, clock tower, fountain,
or pedestrian open space) to add visual interest.
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(3) For commercial structures over forty thousand square feet in gross building footprint such as a grocery
store, smaller uses and activities should be clustered near the entrance as shown on Figure 15.
Alternatively, developments can provide at least six hundred square feet of pedestrian‐oriented space
near the building entry.
Figure 15. An example of clustering smaller uses near an entry of large commercial structures.
(4) All buildings must employ at least two of the following elements or techniques toward achieving
human scale. If a proposed building is over three stories in height, or more than one hundred feet wide
as measured along any façade facing a street and visible from that street, the building shall use at least
three of the following listed elements:
(A) Balconies or decks in upper stories at least six feet deep and six feet wide. At least one balcony or
deck per upper floor on the facades facing streets;
(B) Bay windows that extend out from the building face at least one foot measured horizontally in
upper stories, at least one per floor on the facades facing the street;
(C) Individual windows in upper stories;
(D) Multiple‐paned fenestration (windows with multiple panes);
(E) At least one hundred fifty square feet of pedestrian‐oriented space;
(F) Gable or hipped roof, providing that the hipped or gable roof covers at least one half of the
building's footprint and has a slope greater or equal to three feet vertical in twelve feet
horizontal;
(G) A porch, covered entry, trellis, gateway feature, or similar element;
(H) Upper story setbacks, providing one or more of the upper stories are set back from the face of
the building at least six feet;
(I) Any of the features noted in the "pedestrian‐oriented facades" definition;
(J) Other, similar method approved by the county. All proposals for achieving human scale are
subject to approval by the county.
(5) All buildings facing a street, park, public walkway, or parking area must include at least three of the
following design detail elements:
(A) Sculptural, mosaic, or other architectural details;
(B) Transparent window area or window displays along at least fifty percent of the length of the
ground floor façade for retail;
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(C) Pedestrian weather protection;
(D) Decorative light fixtures;
(E) Landscape trellises;
(F) Decorative building materials incorporated into the building facade, including decorative
masonry, shingles, brick, or stone;
(G) Individualized patterns or continuous woods details such as fancy butt shingles in a geometric
pattern, decorative moldings, brackets, wave trim or lattice work, ceramic tile, stone, glass block
or similar materials;
(H) Other materials with decorative or textural qualities as approved;
(I) Gable or hipped roof, provided the hipped or gable roof covers at least one half of the building's
footprint and has a slope greater or equal to six feet vertical in twelve feet horizontal;
(J) Building articulation, with the upper story set back from the face of the building at least six feet
or projecting out (forward) at least two feet;
(K) Decorative artwork;
(L) Other, similar element approved by the county. All proposals for achieving human scale are
subject to approval by the county.
Figure 16. An example development illustrating some of the desired design details.
(6) All buildings must provide a covered entry (such as an overhang, awning, or canopy) on their primary
facade.
(7) Untreated blank walls visible from public streets, sidewalks, pedestrian areas, and parking areas are
prohibited. Where unavoidable, blank wall treatment should be provided in one or more of the
following ways:
(A) Installing a vertical trellis in front of the wall with climbing vines or other plants;
(B) Landscaping that covers fifty percent of wall area within three years of planting;
(C) Special materials (e.g., decorative patterned masonry);
(D) Display windows;
(E) Artwork or other treatment approved by the county.
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Figure 17. Blank wall treatments.
(8) Durable and high‐quality exterior materials must be used on buildings visible from a public right‐of‐
way, pedestrian area, or parking lot. Highly reflective materials are not allowed. Materials should be
typically used in the Northwest, including, but not limited to:
(A) Bevel or lap siding;
(B) Rock, stone, and brick material;
(C) Architectural shake‐style or "asphalt" shingle roofing;
(D) Metal roofs.
(9) If sheet materials (for example: composite fiber products or metal siding) are used as a siding material
over more than twenty‐five percent of a building's façade visible from a public right‐of‐way, pedestrian
area, or parking lot, then material with a matted finish in a color must be used. The following must also
be done:
(A) Visible window and door trim painted or finished in a complementary color;
(B) Corner and edge trim that covers exposed edges of the siding material.
(10) All prefabricated metal buildings visible from a public right‐of‐way, pedestrian area, or parking lot shall
include at least three of the following features:
(A) Porch or recessed entry;
(B) Overhanging eaves;
(C) Visible trim at least four inches wide around all doors and windows in an accent color;
(D) Other building elements such as a cupola, building wing, trellis, portico, etc.;
(E) Picture windows or adjoining windows totaling at least thirty‐two square feet;
(F) Canopy or other weather protection feature over an adjacent walkway;
(G) Other feature that meets the intent of the standards and as approved by the county.
(11) If concrete blocks (concrete masonry units or "cinder blocks") are used for walls that are visible from a
public right‐of‐way, pedestrian area, or parking lot, use one or more of the following architectural
treatments:
(A) Textured blocks with surfaces such as split‐face or grooved;
(B) Colored mortar;
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(C) Other masonry types, such as brick, glass block, or tile, in conjunction with concrete blocks;
(D) Other similar treatment acceptable to the county.
(12) Do not use the following materials for walls that are visible from a public right‐of‐way, pedestrian area,
or parking lot unless an exception is granted by Mason County:
(A) Mirrored glass;
(B) Corrugated fiberglass;
(C) Chain‐link fences in front yards;
(D) Synthetic materials with reflective surfaces, including galvanized steel and glossy vinyl siding.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Chapter 17.31 LANDSCAPING IN THE BELFAIR UGA
17.31.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to:
(1) Preserve and improve the aesthetic character of Belfair;
(2) Enhance the esthetic quality of new construction;
(3) Promote retention and protection of existing vegetation and to reduce the impact of development on
drainage systems, water quality, and natural habitats;
(4) Enhance the appearance of the SR‐3 corridor and other streets in Belfair;
(5) Mitigate the negative impacts of parking lots on the streetscape;
(6) Screen unsightly uses from view.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.31.020 Standards.
The following standards apply to all commercial and multi family development unless otherwise noted. A
landscape design plan is required.
(1) Landscaping should be suitable and fitting with the character of Belfair as a growing community in a
rural area. Because this is within an urban growth area with a variety of development types,
landscaping—both naturalized and cultivated—will be important in establishing and unifying the
community's character. Existing substantial vegetation and native materials in informal plantings and
arrangements should be considered in the concept.
Specific objectives include:
(A) To provide visual screens and barriers as a transition between differing land uses;
(B) To define plant species which are of low maintenance, resistant to drought and otherwise
appropriate for conditions within the business district and which are safe for pedestrians;
(C) To provide visual relief from large expanses of parking areas and integrate new construction into
the natural environment;
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(D) To provide physical separation between vehicular and pedestrian traffic;
(E) To retain existing vegetation and significant trees by incorporating them into the site design;
(F) To provide decorative landscaping as a focal setting for signs, special site elements and/ or
pedestrian areas;
(G) To provide increased areas of permeable surfaces to allow for infiltration of surface water into
groundwater resources, reduce the quantity of stormwater discharge and improve the quality of
stormwater discharge;
(H) Maintaining a green corridor along SR‐3 except where buildings are encouraged to front directly
onto the highway.
(2) The landscape design plan shall address the following considerations:
(A) A unified pedestrian circulation system with amenities and plantings;
(B) A coordinated system of open spaces and/or planted areas that provide the required pedestrian
areas and landscaping. The plan should indicate how the various spaces and plantings relate to
the project's site design objectives of continuity, variety, activity, etc.;
(C) Screening of service or unsightly areas;
(D) Plantings and/or site features that enhance the building's architectural qualities;
(E) Protection of existing significant trees and natural site amenities.
(3) The design plan should consider the following landscape design objectives where appropriate:
(A) Where feasible, coordinate the selection of plant material to provide a succession of blooms,
seasonal color, and a variety of textures;
(B) Provide a transition in landscaping design between adjacent sites, within a site, and from native
vegetation areas in order to achieve greater continuity;
(C) Design landscaping to create definition between public and private spaces;
(D) Design landscaping to provide a transition between built structures (vertical planes) and the site
(horizontal planes);
(E) Use plantings to highlight significant site features and to define the function of the site, including
parking, circulation, entries, and open space;
(4) The design plan should use planting strips or areas as barriers and/or screens to separate land uses or
specific activities and provide visual relief from large expanses of parking areas or buildings.
Specifically:
(A) Planting areas should be a mix of evergreen and deciduous shrubs whose height and width will
be proportionate to the area being planted;
(B) Trees, shrubs, ground covers, and/or grasses that are native to the Puget Sound basin and are
appropriate to the conditions of the site are preferred;
(C) Care must be taken not to visually block lines of sight for vehicles or pedestrians or obscure
businesses with landscape material that will be too large at maturity for the site;
(D) Plants should be arranged asymmetrically unless the landscape plan emphasizes a formal design
concept or space is too restricted to allow a mix of plant materials;
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(E) Ground cover material should cover seventy percent of the soil in one growing season or seventy
percent of the soil in three years if mulch is applied until the ground cover fills the designated
area.
(5) The design plan should also consider:
(A) Integration of the stormwater management features (such as biofiltration swales or surface
water detention ponds) into the planting strip;
(B) Incorporation of or protection of natural features, including wetlands, significant trees and
vegetation, and slopes.
(6) Landscaping types. The following list of landscaping types:
(A) Landscape Type A.
Figure 18. Landscape Type A.
(B) Landscape Type B
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Figure 19. Landscape Type B.
(C) Landscape Type C
Figure 20. Landscape Type C.
(7) Landscape buffer requirements between uses shall be as noted in Table 1 below. Where substantial
native vegetation exists in the required side and rear buffer areas, such vegetation shall be retained
within the required buffer width to the extent possible. Where a limited amount of native vegetation
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exists in the required buffer area, the county may require supplemental landscaping based on the
required landscape types noted in Table 3 to complement the existing native vegetation.
Table 3. Required buffers for side and rear yards. Landscape Types A, B, and C refer to the landscaping types
referenced in subsection (4) above.
Applicable Use (Buffer must occur within)
Category 3*
(includes multi
family housing
and group care
facilities)
Category 4*
(includes
lodging and
small scale
retail and
office)
Category 5*
(includes retail
and light
industrial uses)
Category 6*
(includes heavy
industry and
related uses
Use of
Adjacent
Property
Category 1*
(includes
passive
recreational
uses and some
agricultural
uses
10' Type A
20' Type B or
25' Type C
10' Type A
15' Type B or
20' Type C
10' Type A
15' Type B or
20' Type C
10' Type A
15' Type B or
20' Type C
Category 2*
(includes most
single family
housing, public
institutions and
public parks
10' Type A
15' Type B or
20' Type C
10' Type A
15' Type B or
20' Type C
10' Type A
15' Type B or
20' Type C
15' Type A
20' Type B or
30' Type C
Category 3* X 10' Type A
15' Type B or
20' Type C
10' Type A
15' Type B or
20' Type C
10' Type A
20' Type B or
30' Type C
Category 4* X X 10' Type A
15' Type B or
20' Type C
10' Type A
20' Type B or
30' Type C
Category 5* X X X 10' Type A
15' Type B or
20' Type C
Category 6* X X X X
*Land Use Categories are detailed in the Mason County Development Regulations, see MCC 17.03.034.
(8) Provide internal parking lot landscaping (parking lots within the Business‐Industrial district are exempt
unless visible from SR‐3). Specifically, all surface parking lots (excluding underground or structured
parking areas) with more than fourteen stalls and within one hundred feet of the public right‐of‐way
(excluding alleys) and not separated from that street by another building shall conform to the following
standards:
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Total Number
of Parking Spaces
Minimum Required
Landscape Area*
15 to 50 15 square feet/parking space
51 to 99 25 square feet/parking space
100 or more 35 square feet/parking space
* Landscaped area calculations can include landscaped areas between the parking lot and the street.
(9) Provide shrubs and ground cover in the required interior parking lot landscape areas.
(A) Plant shrubs at a density of five per one hundred square feet of landscape area.
(B) Up to fifty percent of shrubs may be deciduous.
(C) Select and plant ground cover so as to provide ninety percent coverage within three years of
planting, provided that mulch is applied until plant coverage is complete.
(10) Do not locate a parking stall more than fifty feet from a landscape area.
Exceptions:
(A) Mason County may exempt parking lots with less than one hundred parking spaces and not
visible from or not within one hundred feet of a street or park from interior parking lot
landscaping, but not necessarily from perimeter parking lot landscaping;
(B) Mason County may allow alternative parking lot landscaping schemes where the applicant can
successfully demonstrate that such schemes better meet the intent of the guidelines.
(11) Provide at least one tree for every six parking spaces. The trees required for parking lot landscaping
may not be considered as street trees.
Exceptions:
(A) Mason County may exempt parking lots with less than one hundred parking spaces and not
visible from or not within one hundred feet of a street or park from interior parking lot
landscaping, but not necessarily from perimeter parking lot landscaping;
(B) Mason County may allow alternative parking lot landscaping schemes where the applicant can
successfully demonstrate that such schemes better meet the intent of the guidelines.
(12) Provide landscaping to screen parking lots from adjacent or neighboring properties. Specifically, screen
parking lots with over fourteen stalls and within five feet of adjacent property lines with Landscape
Type A or ten feet of Type B or C landscaping. Mason County may waive this requirement if parking is
shared by the adjacent uses.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
Chapter 17.32 LIGHTING IN THE BELFAIR UGA
17.32.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to:
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(1) Provide a suitable level of illumination for pedestrian walkways and building entries at night;
(2) Minimize the possibility of illegal activities by providing suitable illumination at night;
(3) Improve the confidence and safety of pedestrians walking throughout the downtown area at night.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.32.020 Technical definitions.
"Foot‐candle" means a unit equivalent to the illumination produced by a source of one candle at a distance
of one foot and equal to one lumen incident per square foot.
"Foot‐lambert" means a unit of luminance equal to the luminance of a surface emitting a luminous flux of
one lumen per square foot.
"Lux" means unit of illumination equivalent to nine hundred twenty‐nine thousandths foot‐candle and equal
to the illumination produced by luminous flux of one lumen falling perpendicularly on a surface one meter square.
"Lumen" means the unit of luminous flux equal to the luminous flux emitted in a unit solid angle by a point
source of one candle intensity.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.32.030 Standards.
The following standards apply to all commercial and multi family development unless otherwise noted. For
the illumination levels described below, conformance shall be determined with the measuring instrument located
approximately five feet above the walking surface. Measurements shall be taken during the darkest portion of the
night. Existing lighting fixtures, whether illuminated advertising signs, building‐mounted lights, or streetlights, may
contribute to the measured levels stipulated.
(1) Provide a minimum illumination level of two foot‐candles for all public pedestrian walkways. Building
entries require four foot‐candles or greater.
(2) Provide a minimum illumination of one foot‐candle throughout public and private parking areas.
Parking lot light fixtures shall be of attractive and harmonious design for the area they serve and shall
provide maximum illumination down while minimizing illumination up. They shall be high‐pressure
sodium or as approved by the county.
(3) Direct lighting downward to the intended area to be lighted. All exterior lighting fixtures should
incorporate cutoff shields to prevent spillover into residential areas. Broadcast lighting fixtures that
project lighting outward rather than downward are discouraged. Outdoor lighting should be arranged
so that the light is directed away from adjoining properties. Temporary high intensity construction
lights should be oriented so that the bulb itself is not visible from the nearest property line.
(4) Limit freestanding light fixtures to sixteen feet in height.
(5) Vehicular roadway and highway lighting shall be subject to the county requirements.
(6) Do not use mercury vapor light fixtures.
(7) When using decorative miniature lighting strings, do not use bulbs larger than eleven watts each.
(8) Consider light from buildings as an attractive component of streetscape lighting.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Title 17 ‐ ZONING
Chapter 17.33 SAFETY IN THE BELFAIR UGA
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances
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Chapter 17.33 SAFETY IN THE BELFAIR UGA
17.33.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to:
(1) To reduce criminal activity by providing natural surveillance opportunities onto public and semi‐public
spaces;
(2) To ensure that a development's circulation system, parking areas, sidewalks, and open spaces
contribute a perception of residential and controlled space where illegal activity will be observed and
reported;
(3) To encourage design measures that create a sense of individual territory and community responsibility
by residents.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.33.020 Standards—Non‐single residential development.
The following standards apply to all non‐single family residential development:
(1) Entries and pedestrian walkways shall be emphasized with lighting and landscaping so that occupants
and guests can clearly see them;
(2) Well‐lit parking areas and walkways (at least two foot‐candles evenly distributed on the ground) which
allow users to identify faces at a reasonable distance and choose an appropriate route shall be
provided. Avoid dead‐ends or isolated places for pedestrian walkways.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.33.030 Standards—Multi‐family residential development.
The following standards apply to all multi family residential development:
(1) Multiple family residential development sites should be designed to assure that the following
contribute to natural surveillance and provide for the personal safety for residents:
(A) Orientation of a building,
(B) Placement of windows and doors,
(C) Alignment of sidewalks and paths,
(D) Locations and levels of lighting,
(E) Design and size of open spaces;
Page 59 of 72
Figure 21. Design for safety by maximizing surveillance of common open spaces.
(2) Buildings shall be arranged to allow visibility from dwelling units to open space areas, parking lots, and
pedestrian walkways;
(3) Entrances should be prominent and highly visible from other buildings and public areas;
(A) Open spaces should be located in central areas to maximize resident's access the space and
improve its visibility from surrounding dwelling units,
(B) Windows, openings, and lighting should be included to provide visibility into common areas such
as laundry rooms, mail kiosks, parking garages, exercise rooms, stair wells, and other parts of the
site,
(C) Windows on the street front façade should be provided, where possible, to provide views of the
street for security,
(D) Children's play areas must be centrally located, visible from dwelling units, and away from
hazardous areas (garbage dumpsters, streets, parking areas, woods);
(4) Attractive paved pedestrian walkways shall be provided, where applicable, for visible and convenient
access between buildings, open space, public sidewalks, transit sites, and parking areas;
(5) The visual and spatial transition between the living area of a residence and the street should be
emphasized. This means providing a partial visual screen or space‐defining element between the
interior residential space and the public sidewalk.
Specifically:
(A) Raise the ground level dwelling windows or provide landscaping as a transition, particularly
where setbacks are minimal;
(B) Avoid exterior access corridors next to dwelling windows on upper floors;
(C) Provide appropriate screening and buffering to create a physical separation between pedestrians
on the sidewalk and the windows of a residential unit.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
Title 17 ‐ ZONING
Chapter 17.34 SIGNS IN THE BELFAIR UGA
Mason County, Washington, Code of Ordinances
Page 60 of 72
Chapter 17.34 SIGNS IN THE BELFAIR UGA
17.34.010 Signs in the Belfair UGA.
This chapter shall also be known as the "Belfair Sign Code."
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.34.020 Intent of sign regulations.
The intent of the sign regulations is to provide minimum standards to safeguard life, health, property and
public welfare by regulating and controlling the number, size, design, quality of materials, construction, location,
electrification and maintenance of all signs and sign structures; to preserve and improve the appearance of Belfair
as a place in which to live and as an attraction to nonresidents who come to visit or trade; to encourage sound
signing practices as an aid to business and for public information but to prevent excessive and confusing sign
displays or signs that pose a hazard to the public.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.34.030 Application.
This chapter applies only to signs within the Belfair urban growth area.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.34.040 Exemptions to the sign regulations.
The following may be construed as signs, but are not intended to be regulated as signs in the development
regulations:
(1) The flag, emblem or insignia of a nation or other governmental unit or nonprofit organization subject
to the guidelines concerning their use set forth by the government or organization which they
represent;
(2) Traffic or other municipal signs, signs required by law or emergency, railroad crossing signs, legal
notices and signs erected by government agencies to implement public policy;
(3) Signs of public utility companies indicating danger or which serve as an aid to public safety or which
show the location of underground facilities or of public telephones;
(4) Signs located in the interior of any building or within an enclosed lobby or court of any building or
group of buildings, which signs are designed and located to be viewed exclusively by patrons of such
use or uses;
(5) Decorations, clearly incidental and customary and commonly associated with any national, local or
religious holiday, or traditional community event such as annual festivals or parades;
(6) Sculptures, fountains, murals, mosaics and design features which do not incorporate advertising or
identification.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018).
Page 61 of 72
17.34.050 Definitions.
The following definitions apply within this chapter:
"Accessory building or use" means any building or use which:
(1) Is subordinated to, and serves a principal building or principal use;
(2) Is subordinate in area, extent or purpose to the principal building or principal use served;
(3) Contributes to the comfort, convenience or necessity of occupants of the principal building or principal
use served; and
(4) Is located on the same lot as the principal building or principal use served, with the single exception of
such accessory off‐street parking facilities as are permitted to locate elsewhere than on the same lot
with the building or use served.
Accessory uses include signs which are related to and support an on‐site business or activity.
"Agricultural sales sign" means a temporary sign used to announce and/or direct the public to a sale of
locally grown agricultural products.
"Animated sign" means any sign which includes action or motion or the optical illusion of action or motion,
or color changes of all or any part of the sign facing, requiring electrical energy, or set in motion by movement of
the atmosphere.
"Changing message center sign" means an electrically or electronically controlled sign where different
automatic changing messages are shown on the same lamp blank.
"Commercial sign" means, for the purposes of sign regulations, a sign intended to attract attention, identify,
advertise, and/or promote: a business; goods sold, offered, traded, or manufactured; a service sold or offered; or
professional, commercial or industrial gainful activity.
"County" means Mason County, Washington.
"Construction sign" means any sign used to identify the architects, engineers, contractors or other individuals
or firms involved with the construction of a building and announce the character of the building or the purpose for
which the building is intended.
"Flashing sign" means any sign which contains an intermittent or flashing light source or which includes the
illusion of intermittent or flashing light by means of animation or an externally mounted intermittent light source.
"Garage sale signs (yard sales, moving sales, patio sales)" mean temporary signs used to announce and/or
direct the public to a sale of used items.
"Off‐premises sign" means a sign that directs attention to a business, commodity, service or entertainment
conducted, sold or offered at a location other than the premises on which the sign is located.
"On‐premises sign" means any communication device, structure or fixture that is intended to aid in
identification and to advertise and/or promote a business, service, activity, interest or view at the location on
which the sign is located.
"Non‐commercial sign" means, for the purposes of sign regulations, a sign intended for a purpose other than
to attract attention, identify, advertise, and/or promote: a business; goods sold, offered, traded, or manufactured;
a service sold or offered; or professional, commercial, or industrial gainful activity.
"Political sign" means a temporary sign advertising a candidate or candidates for public elective office, or a
political party, or sign urging a particular vote on a public issue decided by ballot.
"Real estate signs" mean any temporary sign pertaining to the sale, lease or rental of land or buildings.
Page 62 of 72
"Roof sign" means any sign erected upon, against or directly above a roof or on top of or above the parapet
of a building.
"Sign" means any communication device, structure or fixture that is intended to aid an establishment in
identification and to advertise and/or promote a business, service, activity or interest. For the purpose of this
chapter, a sign shall not be considered to be building or structural design, but shall be restricted solely to graphics,
symbols or written copy that is meant to be used in the aforementioned way. Signs as regulated in this chapter
have been organized into a variety of types, such as commercial and non‐commercial, which are regulated
differently.
"Temporary sign" means those signs intended and designed to be displayed for a limited period of time and
associated with a particular event or short term activity. Temporary signs may be of either a commercial or non‐
commercial nature.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018).
17.34.060 Sight distance for signs.
In addition to the setback requirements otherwise established, signs shall be located such that there is at
every street intersection a clear view between heights of three feet and ten feet in a triangle formed by the corner
and points on the curb thirty feet from the intersection or entryway.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.34.070 Prohibited signs.
The following signs or displays are prohibited in the Belfair Urban Growth Area:
(1) Roof signs;
(2) Animated or flashing signs, provided that changing message center signs may be allowed when the
image and/or message remains fixed for at least five seconds and that the only animation or
appearance of movement allowed is the transition from one message and/or image to another by the
scrolling on and/or off of the message and/or image;
(3) Signs which, by reason of their size, location, movement, content, coloring or manner of illumination
may be confused with or construed as a traffic control sign, signal or device, or the light of an
emergency or radio equipment vehicle, or which obstruct the visibility of traffic or street sign or signal
device from the traffic intended to be served by the sign, signal or device;
(4) Signs attached to utility poles;
(5) Off‐premises signs, except for the temporary signs allowed in Sections 17.34.080;
(6) Pole‐mounted signs;
(7) Ground‐mounted signs taller than ten feet in height;
(8) Signs employing exposed electrical conduits;
(9) Signs with visible ballast boxes or other equipment;
(10) Signs with luminous plastic letters;
(11) Audible or odor‐producing signs;
(12) Back‐lit translucent awnings;
(13) Cardboard signs, except for the temporary signs allowed in Section 17.34.080;
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(14) Back‐lit signs with letters or graphics on a plastic sheet (also known as can signs);
(15) Vinyl banners, except those related to a specific event and displayed prior to the event for no more
than ten days.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018).
Figure 22. Can signs compared with permitted signs.
17.34.080 Temporary signs.
Temporary signs are those intended and designed to be displayed for a limited period of time and shall not
be permanently attached or anchored to the ground, to a building, or any other structure. Temporary signs
specified in 17.34.080.C, which are allowed in the right‐of‐way, are regulated pursuant to 17.03.202.C,
17.03.202.D., and state law.
A. Signs displayed on a property actively marketed for sale, lease, or rent.
(1) Permitted Location: On property for sale, lease, or rent.
(2) Duration: No longer than ten days after the sale, lease, or rent of property has been finalized.
(3) Off‐Premise Signs: May be placed on private property with owner's consent.
B. Signs displayed on a property holding a temporary event.
(1) Permitted Location: On the property with which the temporary event is associated.
(2) Duration: no longer than ten days after the event.
(3) Off‐Premise Signs: May be placed on private property with owner's consent.
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C. Signs displayed during elections and campaigns.
(1) Permitted Location: May be placed on private property with owner's consent and in the public
right of way as regulated pursuant to 17.03.202.C, 17.03.202.D., and state law.
(2) Duration: no longer than ten days after the final campaign or election.
(Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018)
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 36‐18, adopted June 5, 2018, repealed the former § 17.34.080, and enacted a new §
17.34.080 as set out herein. The former § 17.34.080 prohibited non‐commercial signs and derived from Ord.
133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004.
17.34.090 Non‐commercial signs.
Non‐commercial signs may be placed upon private property with owner's consent.
(Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018)
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 36‐18, adopted June 5, 2018, repealed the former § 17.34.090, and enacted a new §
17.34.090 as set out herein. The former § 17.34.090 pertained to real estate signs and derived from Ord.
133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004.
17.34.100 Design guidelines.
The following guidelines apply to all signage for non‐single family residential development:
(1) Signage must be of high‐quality design and materials;
(2) Signage shall always complement a building's character and design (e.g., walls signs should avoid
covering building columns);
(3) Signs may be fabricated of mixed media, including metal reverse‐illuminated letters, suspended neon
letters, illuminate individual letters, or signs etched or cut out of solid material, such as wood or brass,
and illuminated from behind;
(4) Keep signs as simple as possible, relying on symbols to avoid needless clutter and complexity;
(5) Use landscaping in conjunction with monument signs to enhance the appearance;
(6) Light colored lettering and logos on a dark background is highly recommended for readability, sense of
quality and design continuity;
(7) Non‐illuminated mixed‐media, and other special mixed‐media signs will be subject to approval by the
county.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018).
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 36‐18, adopted June 5, 2018, repealed § 17.34.100, which pertained to non‐commercial
signs and derived from Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), adopted 2004; § 17.34.110, which pertained to garage
sale signs (also yard sales, moving sales, patio sales) and derived from Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), adopted
2004; and § 17.34.120, which pertained to agricultural sale signs and derived from Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2
(part), adopted 2004.
Said ordinance then renumbered §§ 17.34.130—17.34.180 as 17.34.100—17.34.150.
Page 65 of 72
Figure 23. Appropriate sign location and size.
17.34.110 Permitted commercial monument sign standards.
(a) Monument site entry signs may be located at major vehicular or pedestrian entries along the street front.
(b) Only one monument sign is allowed per site. For large sites, more than one monument sign shall be
permitted as long as such signs are placed no closer than one hundred fifty feet apart along the street front.
(c) Monument signs size limits:
(1) Single tenant signs shall be no more than eight feet in height and thirty‐two square feet in area per
face (Two sign faces are allowed);
(2) Single tenant signs for retail uses larger than fifty thousand square feet in gross floor area shall be no
more than ten feet in height and fifty square feet in area per face;
(3) Multi‐tenant (more than three tenants) signs shall be no more than ten feet in height and forty square
feet in area per face;
(4) Multi‐tenant signs for commercial uses with more than fifty thousand square feet in gross floor area
shall be no more than ten feet in height and fifty square feet in area per face;
(5) Monument signs for multi family developments shall be no more than five feet in height and twenty‐
eight square feet in total sign face area.
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Figure 24. An example of a monument sign.
(d) Signs shall be designed to integrate with adjacent site landscaping.
(e) Monument signs shall be setback at least five feet from any public right‐of‐way.
(f) Monument signs may be internally lit or illuminated from the front.
(g) A thirty‐foot lineal break in required tree coverage in landscaped front yard areas parallel to the street,
where applicable, is permitted adjacent to monument signs to enhance visibility. Other landscape elements
such as shrubs and ground cover will still apply.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018).
Editor's note(s)—See editor's note for § 17.34.100.
17.34.120 Permitted commercial building sign standards.
(a) Building signs are those signs mounted directly on the face of a building and include signs to identify the
building or facility or individual tenants or businesses. Building signs should be designed and located to fit
with the buildings architecture. For example, building signs might fit within a recessed panel or on a building
element such as a fascia or canopy. Building signs should not cover over an architectural element such as a
window or portion of a buildings ornamentation or trim.
(b) Buildings signs should fit parallel or perpendicular with the building façade. The supporting mechanisms or
arms of new building signs should not be visible. Perpendicular signs should not extend more than four feet
from the building façade.
(c) The maximum surface area of building mounted signs for a given façade is twenty‐five square feet plus ten
percent of the area of the building's main façade. The sign(s) may be located on any façade, but the signs on
all façades count toward maximum surface area.
(d) The lettering and logos of building signs may be internally‐lit but the background of the sign face shall not be
internally illuminated. Building signs may be illuminated from the front.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018).
Editor's note(s)—See editor's note for § 17.34.100.
Page 67 of 72
Figure 25. Maximum size of building signs.
17.34.130 Permitted commercial tenant sign standards.
Miscellaneous tenant signs including those hung from building canopies (blade signs), temporary ground
placed A‐Board signs, and window signs are allowed provided they do not exceed twelve square feet and provided
they are within ten feet of the individual or multiple tenant building entrance.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018).
Editor's note(s)—See editor's note for § 17.34.100.
17.34.140 Permitted commercial neon sign standards.
Neon signs in windows are permitted.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018).
Editor's note(s)—See editor's note for § 17.34.100.
17.34.150 Non‐conforming commercial signs.
(a) Signs which are legally established prior to the effective date of this chapter, December 28, 2004, may
continue for a period of ten years, provided that, if a non‐conforming sign is changed or moved, it must be
brought into conformance with this chapter at that time. Notwithstanding the previous sentence, sandwich
boards or A‐frame boards, which are legally established prior to the effective date of this chapter, may
continue for a period of ninety days, provided that after that time:
(1) The sign shall be removed or brought in to conformance, and
(2) Prior to any enforcement action, the county shall attempt to notify the property and/or business
owner of the non‐conformity.
(b) If this chapter is amended so as to create new non‐conforming signs from signs which were in conformance
with this chapter, those signs may continue for a period of ten years from the date of the amendment that
made them non‐conforming, provided that, if a non‐conforming sign is changed or moved, it must be
brought into conformance with this chapter at that time.
(c) Parcels affected by roadway construction identified in the Belfair subarea plan may be granted an extension
of six months past project completion to bring non‐conforming signs into conformance.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004; Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018).
Page 68 of 72
Editor's note(s)—See editor's note for § 17.34.100.
Figure 26. Example of a sandwich board or A‐frame board.
17.34.160 Severability.
This title shall be governed by the laws of the State of Washington. In the event that any portion or section of
this title be declared invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of the title
shall not be affected and shall remain in full force and effect.
(Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018).
17.34.170 Enforcement.
County officials shall have the authority to remove signs when not placed in accordance with this section.
(Ord. No. 36‐18, 6‐5‐2018).
Chapter 17.35 NEIGHBORHOOD DESIGN IN THE BELFAIR UGA
17.35.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to:
(1) Enhance pedestrian and vehicular connectivity between residential areas and to surrounding uses and
amenities;
(2) Provide safe and attractive streets for residents;
(3) Create cohesive neighborhoods designed around centralized park or open spaces;
(4) Create walkable neighborhoods;
(5) Create community open space amenities which lend identity to a neighborhood and are used by its
residents in many ways;
(6) Create a system of parks that are accessible and interconnected, providing a greater amenity to the
community;
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(7) Retain sensitive natural areas and other unique natural features as community open space.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
17.35.020 Standards.
The following standards apply to all residential subdivisions and development unless otherwise noted:
(1) Reserved.
(2) Single family and driveway design. The following standards apply to new developments with more than
four lots;
(A) Design driveways with minimum amounts of impervious surface and minimum presence on the
street to retain green‐space and reduce surface water runoff. Driveways must meet the following
standards:
(i) Driveways and vehicle circulation pavements shall be the minimum size, necessary to
accommodate vehicle storage and circulation. The county may require that pavement
dimensions be modified to reduce impervious surface. Applicants are encouraged to use
pervious materials, where feasible, such as split pavements with lawns or unit pavers in the
center of the driveway,
(B) Design homes that minimize the impact of garages on the street and enhance the sense of
neighborhood. Specifically:
(i) All homes should include a porch or covered entry facing the street,
(ii) Garages visible from the street shall be setback at least five feet further than the front wall
of the house facing the street;
(3) Street Network. The following standards apply to new developments with more than four lots:
(A) The street pattern for new residential development shall emphasize a connected network of
streets rather than long irregular loops with dead‐ends and cul‐de‐sacs. Such a network will
provide better traffic flows, orientation, and shorter trips through the neighborhood.
Intersections should occur at no more than four hundred foot intervals;
(B) The street pattern should be adjusted for existing topography and other natural features, while
maintaining interconnections and function;
(C) Streets should interconnect neighborhoods;
(D) Allow for future connections where topography permits a street to be extended in the future;
(E) Consider alleys in the design of a street system—which have proven useful in reducing on‐street
parking pressure and pedestrian/driveway conflicts. Alleys are also the most appropriate location
for utilities and other service facilities. Alleys also enhance the appearance of the street since
garages will be located at the rear of homes;
(4) Street Design. The following standards are consistent with the American Association of State Highway
Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Green Book and apply to all public streets in residential areas with
traffic volumes less than four thousand average daily traffic and speeds less than thirty mph:
(A) Residential streets shall be designed per Table 4;
Table 4
Page 70 of 72
Residential street design standards
LOCAL NEIGHBORHOOD STREETS
Classification Primary Collector Secondary or
Sub‐Collector
Access Street
Characteristics Principal collector within
residential areas. Conveys
traffic from arterials to
lower order streets.
Collectors are often key
streets for bicycle access.
Conveys traffic from
collectors to access
streets.
Carries very little or no
through traffic.
Usual Average Daily
Traffic
1,000‐3,000 400‐1,000 0‐400
Lane Configuration At least two 12′ lanes and
two 5′ shoulders. 8′
parking lanes and/or 5′
bicycle lanes are
desireabledesirable.
Two 11′ travel lanes
(accommodating two
lanes of traffic) and two
4′shoulders. 8′ parking
lanes; or two 10′ travel
lanes and one 8′ parking
lane are
desireabledesirable.
Two 11′ travel lanes
(accommodating two
lanes of traffic) and two
2′ shoulders. 6′ or 7′
parking lanes or
shoulders are
desireabledesirable. May
go to 10′ lanes.
Curb to Curb Width 34′ 30′ 24′‐26′
Recommend R.O.W.
Including Sidewalks on
Both Sides
60′ 50′ 40′
Level Design Speed 30 mph 20 mph 20 mph
Range of Desirable
Centerline Curb Radius
300′‐500′ 150′‐300′ 100′‐150′
Sidewalks or Separated
Paths
5′ sidewalk on at least
side
5′ on at least one side 5′ on at least one side
(B) The county may approve an alternative street design where the applicant can demonstrate that
such alternative design achieves the following:
(i) Enhances safety for pedestrians and vehicles,
(ii) Provides durable construction but reduces environmental impacts (i.e., less impervious
surface),
(iii) Street design is appropriate for site given existing topography and vegetation,
(iv) Street design is consistent with the purpose of this section and is sufficient to
accommodate the projected traffic;
(5) Sidewalks and Trails. The following standards apply to all new residential development with more than
four lots unless otherwise noted:
(A) New development should be integrated with, and expand Belfair's system of community‐wide
trails (see Figure 6);
(B) Sidewalks or pathways should be provided along public streets per Table 4 above;
Page 71 of 72
(C) The paving surface on all pedestrian paths should be appropriate to their use:
(i) Concrete for sidewalks,
(ii) Seamless materials like asphalt for bike/skating trails,
(iii) Crushed gravel for nature trails,
(iv) The county will consider alternative materials where the applicant can demonstrate that
the material is appropriate for the projected use, durable, and easily maintainable;
(D) All multi‐lot developments over twenty acres should provide bicycle pathways or routes—
especially if they connect with the planned community wide trail system;
(6) Parks and Open Space. The following guidelines apply to all residential subdivisions with more than
twenty‐five lots and all multi‐family development unless otherwise noted:
(A) A variety of public recreation spaces shall be provided in residential subdivisions. The minimum
recreation area required is 350 square feet per unit or lot. The recreation spaces should be
evenly distributed where possible throughout the subdivision as follows:
(i) Pocket parks or squares. These active recreation areas should be a minimum of five
thousand square feed in size and should incorporate a children's play area, landscaping,
and seating at a minimum. At least one side of the park perimeter shall front on a street to
be visible and accessible from the street making them safer places.
(ii) Passive recreation areas. Passive recreation areas such as pathways and trails, seating
areas and viewing areas are encouraged. No more than fifty percent of the total recreation
area can be passive recreation.
(iv) The county will consider alternate means of providing parks and recreation as long as they meet the intent of
the standards:
a. Providing off‐site facilities for smaller developments,
b. Contributing to county park and recreation funds,
c. Setting aside land for future park development;
Page 72 of 72
(A) The county may require retention of existing natural features such as high points, ponds,
wetlands, or streams as community open space. Concentrate development on the land of least
natural value. Preserve existing natural landmarks such as significant trees to the extent possible.
Incorporate passive recreational features such as footpaths into natural areas, except where
access conflicts with important habitat resources.
(Ord. 133‐04 Att. B § 2 (part), 2004).
(Ord. No. 23‐19, Att. A, 3‐19‐2019)
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 27
The effective date of the VSP legislation is July 22, 2011. This date identifies the baseline for
protecting critical areas functions and maintaining agricultural viability that will be the
comparison for determining the success of the Work Plan during implementation.
(5)Benefits to Participation
The VSP serves as an alternative to the regulatory approach of the GMA by allowing Counties
to show protection of critical areas through voluntary stewardship measures. Participating in
VSP contributes to its overall success, which means less regulatory burden on Mason County’s
agriculture operators. At the County level, the VSP provides an opportunity to avoid
application of critical area regulations to agricultural activities, while developing a locally‐
tailored approach to protection of critical areas on agricultural lands. At the individual level,
participants receive technical assistance including leveraging existing voluntary incentive
programs such as financial assistance and cost share programs, and the planning and
implementation of conservation activities. VSP encourages the implementation of
conservation activities that benefit agricultural viability.
(6)Regulatory Backstop
The VSP allows for counties to incorporate existing regulations that help achieve the Work
Plan’s goals and benchmarks. These regulatory backstops are portions of this Chapter that
will remain in full force and effect, and existing and future agricultural activities occurring in
these critical areas will continue to be regulated under the County’s resource regulations.
Under the approved Work Plan, Section 8.52.140 (Geologically Hazardous Areas), Section
8.52.150 (Seismic Hazard Areas), and Section 8.52.130 (Frequently Flooded Areas) will remain
in effect for agricultural activities occurring in these critical areas.
(Ord. 77-93 (part), 1993).
8.52.060 Long-Term Commercial Forest Lands
The purpose of this Section is to maintain and enhance natural resource based industries, to encourage
the conservation of commercial forest lands, to have no net loss of forest lands, and to discourage
incompatible land use.
(A)Classification.
The following criteria, as they existed on January 31, 1992, shall be used in classifying Long‐Term
Commercial Forest Lands:
(1)Property tax classification: Property is enrolled, as of January 31, 1992 in the Open Space ‐
Timber or Designated Forest or Classified Forest property tax classification program pursuant
to Chapter 84.33 or 84.34 RCW, or is owned by a state or local governmental body with long‐
term forest management as its primary use; and
(2)Minimum block size is 5000 acres (2015 hectares) which shall consists of a minimum parcel
size of 80 acres within said block, and which can be in multiple ownerships; and
(3)In any one block, no more than 5% is used for non‐resource use; and
ATTACHMENT D
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 28
(4) The property is greater than 2 miles (3220 meters) from the city limits of Shelton or outside any
designated urban growth boundaries in Mason County, when so established by the County;
and
(5) 50% or more of an ownership parcel shall have a Douglas Fir Site Index of 118 (Land Grade 2)
or better pursuant to WAC 458‐40‐530. In addition, those property owners who have more
than 4000 acres of property within Mason County that meet that criterion, shall also include
all properties with a Douglas Fir Site Index of 99 (Land Grade 3) or better pursuant to WAC
458‐40‐530; and
(6) Greater than 50% of the linear frontage of the perimeter of any parcel meeting classification
criteria 1 ‐ 6 above shall abut parcels that are greater than five (5) acres (2.15 hectares).
(7) In addition, the property that is equal to or greater than 40 acres in size, or is a Government
Lot; and is contiguous with property under the same ownership that meet classification
criteria 1 ‐ 7 above.
(8) In addition, property that is composed of one or more parcels 40 acres (16.12 hectares) or
greater in size that borders United States Forest Service property on more than one side,
irrespective of its consistency with classification criteria 1 ‐ 8 above.
(B) Designation.
Lands of Mason County meeting the classification criteria for Long‐Term Commercial Forest Land,
and so specified on the official Mason County Map, available at the Mason County Planning
Department, titled, "Mason County Long‐Term Commercial Forest Lands and In‐holding Lands,
1991" or as thereafter amended, are hereby designated, under RCW 36.70A.060 and RCW
36.70A.170, as conservation areas for forest resource lands of long‐term commercial significance.
Exempted from this designation are the lands described in 8.52.070 Inholding Lands, in 8.52.070 A
and B.
(C) Land Uses.
Uses and activities determined by the Director to have the potential to cause an impact on the
purpose of the Long‐term Commercial Forest designated area, shall be considered an Unspecified
Conditional Use, and is appealable to the Board of Commissioners. Unspecified uses and activities
may not be incompatible with long‐term resource uses of surrounding properties.
(1) Mason Environmental Permit Required Uses
(a) "Class IV ‐ General Forest Practices" under the authority of the "1992 Washington State
Forest Practices Act Rules and Regulations", WAC 222‐12‐030, or as thereafter
amended; which involve conversion to a Permit Required Use.
(b) Saw mills, shake and shingle mills, plywood mills and the production of green veneer,
particle board plants and other products from wood residues, chippers, pole yards, log
sorting and storage, buildings for debarking, drying kilns and equipment, accessory uses
including but not limited to scaling and weighing stations, temporary crew quarters,
storage and maintenance facilities, residue storage and disposal areas and other uses
involved in the harvesting and commercial production of forest products.
(c) Forestry, environmental and natural resource facilities.
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 29
(d) Public and semi‐public structures including but not limited to fire stations, utility
substations, and energy transmission facilities equal to or greater than 235 KV.
(e) All other accessory structures and uses that are customarily associated with and
secondary to the primary permitted uses.
(f) Publicly developed low intensity recreational facilities including but not limited to
parks, campgrounds, and boat launches.
(g) Other uses and activities determined by the Director to be potentially incompatible
uses, and requiring a similar level of County review as other Permit required uses.
(2) Mason Conditional Environmental Permit Required Uses
(a) "Class IV ‐ General Forest Practices" under authority of the "1992 Washington State
Forest Practices Act Rules and Regulations", WAC 222‐12‐030, or as thereafter
amended; which involve conversion to a Conditional Use.
(b) State correction work camps to supply labor for forest management related work
projects and for forest fire control.
(c) Aircraft landing fields.
(d) Sludge application.
(e) Unspecified Conditional Uses: Uses and activities not specifically Exempt, Permit
Required, or Conditional, but are determined by the Director to have the potential to
cause an impact on the intent of the Long‐term Commercial Forest designated area,
shall be considered an Unspecified Conditional Use, and is appealable to the Board of
Commissioners. Unspecified Conditional Uses may not be incompatible with the long‐
term resource use on surrounding properties.
(D) Development Standards.
(1) Lot Size/Density
The minimum lot size for any new subdivision, short subdivision or large lot segregation of
property shall be 80 acres. Exceptions to this minimum lot size may occur for non‐residential
Permit Required and Conditional Uses and facilities; provided that the County finds that there
will be no impact on surrounding resource uses and further provided that a restrictive
covenant be placed on said property by the property owner, to be held by the County,
prohibiting future residential use. Limitations on density and uses are designed to provide
timber resource protection and to ensure compatible uses.
(E) Preferential Right to Manage Resources and Resource Use Notices.
(1) For land owners who have land designated as Long‐Term Commercial Forest, provisions of
"Right to Forestry" provided under Section 17.01.040.C.58.52.040(C)(5) shall fully apply.
(2) Resource Use Notices
(a) For properties Designated Long‐Term Commercial Forest Land upon application of the
property owner or owners pursuant to Section 17.01.1308.52.200 of this Chapter:
Within two (2) weeks of redesignation to Long‐Term Commercial Forest Land, the
property owner(s) of said land shall submit to the County, for recording with the
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 30
County Auditor, a written notice of the designation. This notice shall be in a form
authorized by the Director and shall include:
(i) The legal description of the property subject to the designation.
(ii) The sixteenth (1/16) section or sections in which lie:
a. the designated property; and
b. any other property within 500 feet of the boundary of the designated
property.
(iii) The following statement:
NOTIFICATION
This notification is to inform property owners that the property described herein
is designated as or within 500 feet of land designated for commercial forestry,
mining, or agriculture. Mason County has established designated Long‐Term
Commercial Forest Land that sets as a priority the use of these lands for
commercial forest management, mining, and agriculture. Residents of this
property may be subject to inconvenience or discomfort associated with the
uses, including, but not limited to, occasional dust, noise, and odor from
commercial thinning, clear cutting, slash burning, blowdowns, surface mining,
and/or chemical applications. Residents of adjacent property within 500 feet of
said lands, should be prepared to accept such inconvenience or discomfort from
normal and necessary operations."
The forest owner shall execute and acknowledge the notice, and pay the fee for
recording the notice to the County.
(b) For properties Designated Long‐Term Commercial Forest Land pursuant to Section
17.01.060.B8.52.060(B) of this Chapter:
Within two (2) months of the effective date of this Chapter, the Director shall submit to
the County Auditor for recording, a written notice of all County initiated and
Designated Long‐Term Commercial Forest Lands. This notice shall be in a form similar
to "a" above.
The Director shall execute and acknowledge the notice, and no affected property
owner shall be charged a fee for recording the notice.
(c) For all properties within 500 feet of designated Long‐Term Commercial Forest Land:
All new plats, short subdivisions, large lot subdivisions, and building permits issued by
Mason County for development activities on any property designated as Long‐Term
Commercial Forest Land, or within 500 feet thereof, shall contain a notice as specified
in "(a)(iii)" above.
(d) It shall be the responsibility of any property owner who contemplates placement of any
structure requiring a building permit within 50 feet of any designated Long‐Term
Commercial Forest Land property to notify the Forest Land owner of their intent to do
so.
Notice shall be made by written letter, sent by certified U.S. mail, with return receipt,
to notify the owner of the adjacent Long‐Term Commercial Forest Land. Enclosed with
the letter shall be a copy of the proposed plot plan showing approximate placement of
said structure. Notice must be mailed before any construction begins.
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 31
A copy of the Certified notice shall be attached to the building permit application by the
applicant and the County Building Director shall not issue the permit until at least 15
days, after the date of the mailing of the Certified notice, or upon affirmative response
from the Long‐Term Commercial Forest owner.
The requirement to notify shall in no way be a requirement upon the property owner
to place any specific setback upon the proposed structure, but shall be a period of time
to allow time for the Long‐Term Forest land owner to explain the possible benefits to
the property owner as to a larger buffer between the proposed structure and the Long‐
Term Commercial Forest Lands.
8.52.061 Agricultural Resource Lands
The purpose of this section is to maintain and enhance natural resource based industries, to encourage
the conservation of commercial agricultural lands, and to discourage incompatible land use.
(A) Classification.
The following criteria shall be used in identifying lands appropriate for Agricultural Resource Lands:
(1) The property has an existing commercial agricultural use (as of the date of designation) or
where the property was used for agricultural purposes as of January 1991, where identified
by property tax classification in the open space ‐ agriculture property tax classification
program pursuant to Chapter 84.34 RCW or where agricultural use has been identified as the
principal use of the property, are presumed to meet this criteria;
(2) The property has a minimum parcel size of ten (10) acres;
(3) The parcel has prime farmland soils;
(4) The property is surrounded by or adjacent to lands qualifying under classification criteria (1)
to (3) above;
(5) The property is an upland fin‐fish hatchery. Provided that, property owners may apply to have
their land designated as Agricultural Resource Lands upon a showing that the property is
eligible for and participates in the open space ‐ agricultural property tax classification
program pursuant to Chapter 84.34 and upon a showing that either that the property has
prime farmland soils or that, in some other fashion, the agricultural use has long‐term
commercial significance. Such applications shall be reviewed by the county as provided for in
the annual amendment process for the county Comprehensive Plan and Development
Regulations.
(B) Designation.
Lands of Mason County which have been identified as meeting the classification criteria for
Agricultural Resource Lands, and are so specified on the official Mason County map, available at the
Mason County Planning Divisionas a layer on the public web‐based Mason County GIS
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 32
(gis.masoncountywa.gov/mason), titled, "Mason County Agricultural Resource Lands" or as
thereafter amended, are designated as Agricultural Resource Lands.
(C) Land Uses.
Development and land uses and activities allowed in the Agricultural Resource Lands or on adjacent
lands are as specified in the Mason County this chapterDevelopment Regulations and other
applicable ordinances, codes and regulations.
(1) Accessory uses that support, promote, or sustain agricultural operations and production, are
allowed and shall comply with the following standards:
(a) Accessory uses shall be located, designed, and operated so as not to interfere with
natural resource land uses and shall be accessory to the growing of crops or raising of
animals;
(b) Accessory commercial or retail uses shall predominately produce, store, or sell
regionally produced agricultural products from one or more producers, products
derived from regional agricultural production, agriculturally related experiences, or
products produced on‐site. Accessory commercial and retail uses shall offer for sale
predominantly products or services produced on‐site; and
(c) Accessory uses may operate out of existing or new buildings with parking and other
supportive uses consistent with the size and scale of existing agricultural buildings on
the site but shall not otherwise convert agricultural land to nonagricultural uses.
(2) Accessory uses may include compatible commercial or retail uses including, but not limited to,
the following:
(a) Storage and refrigeration of regional agricultural products;
(b) Production, sales, and marketing of value‐added agricultural products derived from
regional sources;
(c) Supplemental sources of on‐farm income that support and sustain on‐farm agricultural
operations and production;
(d) Support services that facilitate the production, marketing, and distribution of
agricultural products; and
(e) Off‐farm and on‐farm sales and marketing of predominately regional agricultural
products and experiences, locally made art and arts and crafts, and ancillary retail sales
or service activities.
(3) Uses Permitted: Single‐family residential and single‐family accessory use, aquaculture, bicycle
paths and walking trails, kennels, public parks, forestry, fuel storage tanks (above ground &
underground, accessory use), livestock, stable(s), pasture, public parks, signs, cottage industry
(must comply with criteria in 17.03.021).
(4) Uses Permitted with Special Use Permit: Education Learning Center, Fire Station, bed &
breakfast.
(D) Development Standards.
(1) Development Standards for Proposed Land Uses.
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 33
(a) Front yard setback: twenty‐five feet.
(b) Side and rear yard setbacks: side and rear yard setbacks for the residential dwelling is
twenty feet, for accessory buildings shall be twenty feet, for accessory structures used
for agricultural purposes or home occupations shall be fifty feet, and for buildings of
nonresidential land uses shall be fifty feet.
(c) DensityFloor Area Ratio: one is to twenty, except for fire stationsone primary residence
per ten acres, or as specified in MCC 17.03.037, and one accessory dwelling unit per
parcel.
(d) Size: five thousand sq. ft. maximum (or up to seven thousand five hundred sq. ft. with a
special use permit) for nonagricultural and accessory buildings except for dwellings and
agricultural buildings.
(e) Height: thirty‐five feet except for agricultural buildings, cell towers, antennas or water
tanks.
(2) Proposed land uses shall meet the review standards for land uses established in the Mason
County Resource Ordinance, development regulations , including Section 17.03.020 (Matrix of
Permitted Uses) and Section 17.03.021 (Home Occupation and Cottage Industries).
(E) Preferential Right to Manage Resources and Resource Use Notices.
(1) For land owners who have land designated as Agricultural Resource Lands, provisions of
"Right to Farm" provided under Section 8.52.040(C)(5) shall fully apply.
(2) All plats, short plats, large lot subdivision, development permits, and building permits issued
for activities on, or within five hundred feet of lands designated as Agricultural Resource
Lands shall contain the following notification: "This property is within or near designated
Agricultural Resource Lands on which a variety of commercial activities may occur at times
and that are not compatible with residential development. Residents of this property may be
subject to inconvenience or discomfort associated with these activities including, but not
limited to: dust, odor, noise, and chemical applications."
(Ord. 52-00, Attachment B, 2000: Res. 91-99 (part), 1999; Ord. 152-97 (part), 1997). (Ord. 108-05 Attach. B (part),
2005).
8.52.070 Inholding Lands
The purpose of this section is to mitigate potential incompatible land uses between the long‐term
commercial forest lands and the neighboring Inholding Lands.
(A) Classification.
The following criteria, as they exist at the time of adoption of this chapter, shall be used in
determining Inholding Lands:
(1) Lands that as a block are surrounded on all sides by designated long‐term commercial forest
lands; or in the case of properties abutting another county on at least one side, lands that are
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 34
surrounded in the county by properties designated long‐term commercial forest lands; and
maximum block size is less than six hundred forty acres (257.92 hectares) in size; and lands
that do not meet the classification criteria for long‐term commercial forest lands.
(2) Lands which meet the criteria for long‐term commercial forest lands pursuant to Section
8.52.060(A) of this chapter and are within four hundred feet of the Cloquallum/Lake
Communities border as of the effective date of this chapter. The border to be that defined on
the official map of "Mason County Long‐Term Commercial Forest Lands and Inholding Lands."
The intent of this classification is to mitigate potential incompatible land uses between the long‐
term commercial forest land and the neighboring Inholding Lands.
(B) Designation.
(1) Lands of the county meeting the classification criteria for Inholding Lands, and so specified on
the official Mason County map, available at the County Planning Division, titled, "Mason
County Long‐Term Commercial Forest Lands and Inholding Lands, 1991" or as thereafter
amended, are designated, under RCW 36.70A.060 and RCW 36.70A.170, as crucial areas for
the conservation of forest resource lands of long‐term commercial significance.
(2) The four‐hundred‐foot strip described in subsection (A)(2) of this section, shall not be
designated as long‐term commercial forest land.
(3) Inholding Lands shall remain Inholding Lands even if they no longer meet the classification
criteria in subsection (A) of this section due to the redesignation of some portion of the long‐
term commercial forest land which had previously caused the subject property to meet the
criteria for classification as inholding land.
(C) Land Uses.
Permit‐required and conditional uses within Inholding Lands are the same as for designated long‐
term commercial forest lands, with the exception that mining and related activities are conditional
uses if the county has authority to make such determination pursuant to the State Surfacing Mining
Act, RCW 78.44 or as thereafter amended.
Land uses in the four‐hundred‐foot strip designated in subsection (B) of this section shall be the
same as Inholding Lands.
(D) Development Standards.
The following development standards for Inholding Lands shall apply to the lands designated in
subsection (B) of this section.
(1) Lot Size/Density.
The minimum lot area for any new subdivision, short subdivision or large lot segregation of
property shall be five acres (2.15 hectares). Exceptions to this minimum lot size may occur for
nonresidential permit‐required and conditional uses and facilities; provided that the county
approval authority finds that there will be no impact on surrounding resource uses and
further provided that a restrictive covenant be placed on the property, to be held by the
county, prohibiting future residential use.
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 35
Average residential densities for any new subdivision or short subdivision of property may be
increased up to one unit per two and one‐half acres (1.08 hectares); provided all of the
following conditions can be met:
(a) The property to be divided is at least twenty acres (8.06 hectares) in size; and
(b) Each residential lot created is no more than one acre (0.40 hectares) in size; and
(c) All identified residential building sites are located outside any one‐hundred‐year
floodplains, geologically hazardous areas, or other critical areas; and
(d) The county approval authority finds that the design of the subdivision or short
subdivision minimizes impact on surrounding resource uses; and
(e) A natural resource management and/or conservation easement; to be held by the
county, recognized nonprofit land trust or similar institution; be placed on the
nonresidential portion of the subdivision or short subdivision restricting the use of the
property to uses consistent with natural resource management and/or conservation,
and prohibiting future residential use; or
A natural resource management and/or conservation restriction is placed on the face of
the plat accomplishing the same purpose as an easement.
No less than fifty percent of the subdivided property shall be maintained in this
manner.
(2) Each parcel currently below five acres in size may be developed for an primary individual
single‐family residence. and one (1) Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).
(3) For lots five acres to 9.99 acres in size, the original owner at the time this plan is adopted may
divide their property into two parcels, the smallest of which is not less than 2.5 acres in size.
(4) (a) Other Development Standards.
(i) Front yard setback: Twenty‐five feet;
(ii) Side and rear yard setbacks: Side and rear yard setbacks for the residential
dwelling is twenty feet, for accessory buildings shall be twenty feet, for accessory
structures used for agricultural purposes or home occupations shall be fifty feet,
and for buildings of nonresidential land uses shall be fifty feet;
(iii) Floor area ratio: 1:20, except for fire stations;
(iviii) Size: Four Three thousand eight hundred square feet maximum for
nonagricultural and accessory buildings except for dwellings and agricultural
buildings;
(iv) Height: Thirty‐five feet except for agricultural buildings, cell towers, antennas, or
water tanks.
(b) Water Supply. Inholding properties shall meet all water supply standards as required
under Section 17.01.068 8.52.100(B)[sic].
(5) Preferential Right to Manage Resources.
For landowners who have designated Inholding Lands, provisions of "right to forestry" and
"right to farm" under Section 8.52.040(C)(5), and resources use notices provided under
Section 8.52.060(D), shall fully apply.
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 41
8.52.100 Additional Resource Land Provisions
The following provisions apply to non‐resource uses within designated Long‐Term Commercial Forest,
Inholding and Mineral Resource Lands:
(A) Roadway Standards.
(1) Permanent vehicular access for non‐resource uses shall meet the following standards:
(a) Permanent legal access which has been granted by resource property owner(s) or
public rights‐of‐way can be accessed directly; and
(b) Strict adherence to the standards of the Uniform Fire Code as determined by the
County Fire Marshal; and
(c) Maximum roadway grade serving two or more non‐resource properties shall not
exceed twelve percent (12%); and
(d) For rights‐of‐way serving two or more non‐resource properties, a maintenance
agreement is recorded with the County Auditor identifying owners responsible for
maintaining said rights‐of‐way to the above standards.
(2) The County Engineer may impose additional roadway development standards if he/she
determines they are necessary for public health and safety.
(B) Water Supply Standards.
(1) When residential or other structural uses are intended to be supplied with potable water
from off‐site sources, written permission shall be obtained from the property owners
supplying the water prior to plat approval or building permit issuance, as applicable.
(2) New residential or recreational domestic water supplies shall be certified by the County or
State of Washington as appropriate, and shall not be located within one hundred (100) feet
(30.5 meters) of adjacent property without written consent or easement of the adjacent property
owner.
(3) Domestic water supplies shall be in compliance with State and County health codes.
8.52.110 Wetlands
The purpose of this section is to avoid, or in appropriate circumstances, minimize, rectify, reduce or
compensate for impacts arising from land development and other activities affecting wetlands; to
maintain and enhance the biological and physical functions and values of wetlands with respect to water
quality maintenance; stormwater and floodwater storage and conveyance; fish and wildlife habitat;
primary productivity, recreation, education and historic and cultural preservation. When avoiding impacts
is not reasonable, mitigation shall be implemented to achieve a no net loss of wetlands in terms of
acreage, function and value.
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 42
(A) Classification. The following shall be classified as wetland areas:
Areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration
sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation
typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes,
bogs and similar areas. However, wetlands may include those artificial wetlands intentionally
created from non‐wetland areas created to mitigate conversion of wetlands, if permitted by the
county.
(B) Designations.
(1) The following lands, shorelands, and waters of Mason County are hereby designated under
RCW 36.70A.060 and RCW 36.70A.170 as wetland critical areas requiring immediate
protection from incompatible land uses:
(a) All areas described in subsection (A) of this section;
(b) Ponds less than twenty acres;
(c) Wetlands created as mitigation, and those modified for approved land use activities,
including their submerged aquatic beds.
(2) The following are designated as non‐regulated wetlands:
(a) Artificial man‐made wetlands intentionally created from non‐wetland sites, including,
but not limited to, irrigation and drainage ditches, grass‐lined swales, canals, detention
facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, farm ponds, and landscape amenities or
those wetlands created after July 1, 1990, that were unintentionally created as a result
of the construction of a road, street or highway.
(b) Exempt wetlands that are isolated and less than one thousand square feet in area
where it has been shown by the applicant that they are not associated with a riparian
corridor or a shoreline of the state, they are not part of a wetland mosaic, and do not
contain habitat identified as essential for local populations of priority species identified
by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
(3) Identification of wetlands and delineation of their boundaries shall be done in accordance
with the approved federal wetland delineation manual and applicable regional supplements,
as required by WAC 173‐22‐035. All areas within the county meeting the wetland designation
criteria in that procedure are hereby designated critical areas and are subject to the
provisions of this Chapter.
(4) Owners and applicants with non‐regulated wetlands are strongly urged to cooperate
voluntarily in this plan of wetland protection, using the guidelines in this ordinance and in
materials provided by the Department of Community Services.
(C) Procedures.
(1) Responsibilities for the determination of wetland boundaries:
(a) Formal determination of wetland boundaries is the responsibility of the county. The
responsibility to provide all necessary and accurate data to the county for its
determination rests with the applicant. This information will include a field delineation
by a qualified wetland professional applying the current approved federal wetland
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 43
delineation manual and applicable regional supplements. When, in the opinion of the
Director, sufficient information exists from the county's wetland inventory, or other
sources, the requirement for a full or partial delineation may be waived. For instance,
in some cases, the applicant may only be required to determine the wetland boundary,
or portion thereof, of the wetland system. The Director shall determine when a permit
application is required and what additional information may be necessary. Wetland
delineations shall be performed in accordance with the procedures as specified in the
current approved federal wetland delineation manual and applicable regional
supplements. Evidence documenting the results of any boundary survey, or other
submitted data, may be required by the Director.
(b) Mason County, at a fee, when requested by the applicant, or the affected party, may
perform the delineation in lieu of direct action by the applicant. Mason County may
use hydrology, soils, plant species, and other data, and consult with biologists,
hydrologists, soil scientists, or other experts, as needed, to perform the delineation.
The county shall make a good faith effort to provide this service, consistent with
budgetary constraints and available in‐house expertise, for smaller projects and
especially for those property owners with lesser financial capabilities.
(c) Where Mason County performs a wetland boundary determination at the request of
the applicant, it shall be considered a final determination unless contested.
(d) Where the applicant has provided a determination of the wetland boundary, the
Director shall verify the accuracy of, and may render adjustments to, the boundary
delineation.
(e) In the event the boundary delineation is contested by the applicant or affected party,
the Department of Ecology, or a mutually agreed upon party, shall settle the dispute.
(D) Land Uses.
(1) Mason Environmental Permit Required Uses and Activities.
A Mason Environmental Permit shall be obtained from the county, using the administrative
review process in this chapter, prior to undertaking, in a regulated wetland or its buffer, for
the following activities.
(a) The removal, excavation, grading, dredging, dumping, discharging, or filling of any
material; or the draining or flooding of the site, except where undertaken for
maintenance (but not construction) of drainage ditches or for emergency repair;
(b) The construction of stormwater management facilities; or(c) The driving of pilings;
(d) The placing of obstructions;
(e) The construction, reconstruction, demolition, or expansion of any structure;
(f) The destruction or alteration of wetlands and wetland buffer through clearing,
harvesting, shading, intentional burning, or planting of vegetation that would alter the
character of a designated wetland or buffer, provided that this subsection shall not
apply to the following activities undertaken in a manner which minimizes impacts:
(i) The harvesting or normal maintenance of vegetation in a manner that is not
injurious to the natural reproduction of such vegetation;
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 44
(ii) The removal or eradication of noxious weeds so designated in Chapter 17.10
RCW or other exotic, nuisance plants;
(iii) Site investigative work necessary for land use application submittals such as
surveys, soil logs and percolation tests;
(iv) The construction or trails, which shall be unpaved when located in the buffers
and elevated when located in wetlands, that are not intended for motorized use,
and which are no wider than three feet, unless additional width is necessary for
safety along a precipice, steep hillside, or other hazardous area. See subsection
(E)(3)(c) for additional details on regulated (but permitted) trail activity;
(v) Emergency services or repairs for health and welfare; or
(vi) Activities of a mosquito control district; or
(g) Activities that result in a significant change of water temperature, a significant change
of physical or chemical characteristics of wetland's water sources, including quantity, or
the introduction of pollutants.
(2) Activities Permitted without a Mason Environmental Permit.
The following uses shall be allowed, in addition to those defined in General Exemptions (see
Section 8.52.200), within a wetland or wetland buffer to the extent that they are not
prohibited by the Shorelines Management ACT of 1971 (Chapter 90.58 RCW), Federal Water
Pollution Control Act (Clean Water ACT), State Water Pollution Control Act (Chapter 90.48
RCW), State Hydraulic Code (RCW 75.20.100 ‐ .140), Forest Practices Act (Chapter 76.09 RCW
and Chapter 222‐16 WAC) or any other applicable ordinance or law and provided they are
conducted using best management practices, except where such activities result in the
conversion of a regulated wetland or wetland buffer to a use to which it was not previously
subjected and provided further that forest practices and conversions from forest land shall be
governed by Chapter 76.09 RCW and its rules:
(a) Conservation or preservation of soil, water, vegetation, fish, shellfish, and other
wildlife;
(b) Outdoor recreational activities that do not have a significant adverse impact on the
wetland and its related buffer;
(c) The harvesting of wild crops in a manner that is not injurious to natural reproduction of
such crops and provided the harvesting does not require tilling of soil, planting of crops,
or alteration of the wetland by changing existing topography, water conditions or water
resources;
(d) Existing and ongoing agricultural activities, including farming, horticulture, aquaculture,
irrigation, ranching or grazing of animals. Activities on areas lying fallow as part of a
conventional rotational cycle are part of an ongoing operation. Activities which bring
an area into agricultural use are not part of an ongoing operation. An operation ceases
to be ongoing when the area in which it was conducted has been converted to another
use or has lain idle for more than five years unless that idle land is registered in a
federal or state soils conservation program. Forest practices are not included in this
definition.
(e) The maintenance (but not construction) of drainage ditches;
(f) Education, scientific research, and use of nature trails;
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 45
(g) Site investigative work necessary for land use application submittals such as surveys,
soil logs, percolation tests and other related activities. In every case, wetland impacts
shall be minimized and disturbed areas shall be immediately restored; and
(h) The following uses are allowed within wetlands and/or wetland buffer, provided that
any required permits or approvals are obtained and further provided that wetland
impacts are minimized and that disturbed areas are immediately restored:
(i) Normal maintenance, repair, or operation of existing structures, facilities, or
improved areas. Maintenance and repair does not include any modification that
changes the character, scope, or size of the original structure, facility, or
improved area and does not include the construction of a maintenance road; and
(ii) Minor modification of existing structures within a buffer zone where
modification does not adversely impact wetland functions.
(iii) Repair or reconstruction of damaged or destroyed structures within two years of
the damage or destruction.
(i) The felling of danger trees within buffers providing the following conditions are met:
(i) When it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Administrator that an
imminent threat exists to public health or safety, or the safety of private or
public property. Landowner shall provide to the Administrator a written
statement describing tree location, danger it poses, and proposed mitigation.
(ii) Should the imminent threat not be apparent to the Administrator (as danger
trees are defined in Section 8.52.030), the Administrator may require the
landowner submit a report from a professional forester or certified arborist.
(iii) Before a danger tree may be felled or removed, with the exception of an
emergency pursuant to Section 8.52.240, the landowner shall obtain written
approval from the Administrator. This approval shall be processed promptly and
may not be unreasonably withheld. If the Administrator fails to respond to a
danger tree removal request within ten business days, the landowner's request
shall be conclusively allowed.
(iv) Trees felled as danger trees shall be counted in the allowed amounts under
Section 8.52.170(D)(4)(k).
(v) Mitigation as approved by the Administrator to include:
a. The planting within the critical area or its buffer a total of six new native
trees, each a minimum three years old. Should a report be submitted
under subsection (i)(ii), it shall contain recommendations for suitable
replacement trees;
b. Felled trees shall be left within the critical area or buffer unless a
submitted report warrants its removal to avoid spreading disease or pests;
c. The trunk of the cut tree may be segmented, but should be left in as large
of segments as possible to provide habitat;
d. The branches from the cut tree may be removed to control fire hazard;
and
e. Additional mitigation may be required if three or more trees are to be
felled on one property within a ten‐year period.
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 46
(j) Where a legally established, non‐conforming use of the buffer exists (e.g., a road or
structure that lies within the width of buffer recommended for that wetland), proposed
actions in the buffer may be allowed without a Mason Environmental Permit and
without mitigation as long as they do not increase the degree of non‐conformity. This
means no increase in the impacts to the wetland from activities in the buffer.
(E) Development Standards.
(1) Wetlands Rating System. A four‐tier wetlands rating system is adopted as the rating system
for Mason County. Wetland buffer widths, wetland activities, and replacement ratios shall be
based on this rating system.
Procedures for applying the wetland rating system are set forth in the Washington State
Wetland Rating System for Western Washington, revised 2014, or as amended hereafter,
Washington State Department of Ecology.
(a) Wetlands shall be categorized as follows:
(2) Wetland Buffers.
(a) Buffer Widths.
Wetland buffers (plus a 15 foot structural setback) shall be required for all regulated
wetlands. Any wetland created, restored, or enhanced as compensation for approved
wetland alterations shall also include a buffer required for the category of the created,
restored, or enhanced wetland. The buffer widths are established by adjusting a base
width for the category of wetland at the site for the habitat value as scored by the
wetland rating system and for the land use intensity of the proposed activity. All
buffers shall be measured horizontally from the wetland boundary as surveyed in the
field.
The width of the wetland buffer shall be determined by the following process:
Table 8.52.110(A): Wetland Categories.
1) Category I Wetlands. Category I wetlands are those regulated wetlands that include but are not
limited to rare, unique wetland types that are more sensitive to disturbance than most wetlands and
that contain ecological attributes that are impossible to replace within a human lifetime. Category I
wetlands score between 23- 27 points on the wetlands ratings systems.
2) Category II Wetlands. Category II wetlands are those regulated wetlands that score between 20-22
points on the wetlands ratings system.
3) Category III Wetlands. Category III wetlands are those regulated wetlands that score between 16-
19 points on the wetlands ratings system.*
4) Category IV Wetlands. Category IV wetlands are those regulated wetlands that score between 9-15
points on the wetlands ratings system.*
5) Wetlands intentionally created from non-wetland areas to mitigate conversion of other wetlands.
6) Mosaic wetlands as defined in Section 8.52.030
* Mason County non-Regulated Wetlands. Isolated wetlands under 1,000 square feet which are not
associated with a riparian corridor or a shoreline of the state, not part of a wetland mosaic, and not
essential habitat of a priority species as identified by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Please refer to Appendix A or the Department of Ecology publication for more information.
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 47
(i) The wetland is categorized according to wetland ratings system category as
shown in Table 8.52.110(A);
(ii) Table 8.52.110(B) rates examples of different land uses for intensity of impacts to
wetlands;
(iii) The width of the buffer is determined based on the habitat value scored by the
wetland on the wetland rating system and on the land use intensity of the
proposed use as shown in Tables 8.52.110 C, D, E, or F.
(iv) Regulated buffers shall not extend across legally established public roads or
hardened surfaces to include areas which are functionally isolated from the
critical area. Buffer reductions under this provision are allowed only when the
functional disconnection has been documented through a report by a qualified
professional that demonstrates the area is functionally isolated. The County shall
consider the hydrologic, geologic, and/or biological habitat connection potential
and the extent and permanence of the physical separation.
Table 8.52.110(B): Ratings of Impact from Land Uses.
Rating of impact
from proposed
changes in land use
Examples of land uses that cause the impact based on common zoning categories
High
Commercial
Urban
Industrial
Institutional
Retail sales
Residential (more than 1 unit/acre)
Conversion to high intensity agriculture (dairies, nurseries and green houses,
growing and harvesting crops requiring annual tilling, raising and maintaining
animals)
High intensity recreation (golf courses, ball fields)
Moderate
Single-family residential (1 unit/acre or less)
Moderate-intensity open space (parks with biking, jogging, etc)
Conversion to moderate intensity agriculture (orchards and hay fields)
Paved trails
Building of logging roads
Utility corridor or right-of-way shared by several utilities and including
access/maintenance road
Low
Forestry (cutting of trees only)
Low intensity open space (hiking, bird watching, preservation of natural
resources, etc.)
Unpaved trails
Utility corridor without a maintenance road and little or no vegetation
management
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 48
Table 8.52.110(C): Width of Buffer Required to Protect Category IV Wetlands. Wetlands Scoring
Between 9 and 15 Points on the Wetland Rating System.
Wetland Characteristics Buffer Widths by Impacts of Proposed Land Use
Score for all 3 basic functions is less than 16 points Low - 25 ft
Moderate – 40 ft
High – 50 ft
Table 8.52.110(D): Width of Buffers Required to Protect Category III Wetlands. Wetlands Scoring
Between 16 and 19 Points on the Wetlands Rating System.
Wetland Characteristics Buffer Widths by Impacts of Proposed Land
Use
High level of function for habitat
(score for habitat 8 - 9 points)
Low - 150 ft
Moderate – 225 ft
High – 300 ft
Moderate level of function for habitat (score for
habitat 6 - 7 points)
Low - 75 ft
Moderate – 110 ft
High – 150 ft
Score for habitat 3-5 points Low - 40 ft
Moderate – 60 ft
High – 80 ft
Table 8.52.110(E): Width of Buffers Required to Protect Category II Wetlands. Wetlands Scoring
Between 20 and 22 Points on the Wetlands Rating System.
Wetland Characteristics
Buffer Widths by Impact of
Proposed Land Use
(Apply most protective if more
than one criterion is met.)
Other Measures Recommended
for Protection
High level of function for habitat
(score for habitat 8 - 9 points)
Low - 150 ft
Moderate – 225 ft
High – 300 ft
Maintain connections to other
habitat areas
Moderate level of function for
habitat
(score for habitat 6 - 7 points)
Low - 75 ft
Moderate – 110 ft
High – 150 ft
No recommendations at this time
High level of function for water
quality improvement and low for
habitat
(score for water quality 8 - 9
points; habitat less than 6 points)
Low - 50 ft*
Moderate – 75 ft*
High – 100 ft*
No additional surface discharges
of untreated runoff
Estuarine
Low - 75 ft
Moderate – 110 ft
High – 150 ft
No recommendations at this time
Not meeting above characteristics
Low - 50 ft
Moderate – 75 ft
High – 100 ft
No recommendations at this time
*If buffer is located on a steep slope, the width shall be increased per subsection 8.52.110(E)(2)(b)(v).
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 49
Table 8.52.110(F): Width of Buffers Required to Protect Category I Wetlands. Wetlands Scoring
Between 23 and 27 Points on the Wetlands Rating System.
Wetland Characteristics Buffer Widths by Impact of
Proposed Land Use
(Apply most protective if more
than one criterion is met.)
Other Measures Recommended
for Protection
Wetlands Of High Conservation
Value
Low - 125 ft
Moderate – 190 ft
High – 250 ft
No additional surface discharges
to wetland or its tributaries
No septic systems within 300 ft of
wetland
Restore degraded parts of buffer
Bogs
Low - 125 ft
Moderate – 190 ft
High – 250 ft
No additional surface discharges
to wetland or its tributaries
Restore degraded parts of buffer
Forested Buffer width to be based on
score for habitat functions or
water quality functions*
If forested wetland scores high for
habitat, need to maintain
connections to other habitat areas
Restore degraded parts of buffer
Estuarine
Low - 100 ft
Moderate – 150 ft
High – 200 ft
No recommendations at this time
Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons
Low - 100 ft
Moderate – 150 ft
High – 200 ft
No recommendations at this time
High level of function for habitat
(score for habitat 8 - 9 points)
Low – 150 ft
Moderate – 225 ft
High – 300 ft
Maintain connections to other
habitat areas
Restore degraded parts of buffer
Moderate level of function for
habitat (score for habitat 6 - 7
points)
Low – 75 ft
Moderate – 110 ft
High – 150 ft
No recommendations at this time
High level of function for water
quality improvement (8 – 9
points) and low for habitat (less
than 6 points)
Low – 50 ft*
Moderate – 75 ft*
High – 100 ft*
No additional surface discharges
of untreated runoff
Not meeting any of the above
characteristics
Low – 50 ft
Moderate – 75 ft
High – 100 ft
No recommendations at this time
*If buffer is located on a steep slope, the width shall be increased per subsection 8.52.110(E)(2)(b)(v).
(b) Increased Wetland Buffer Width.
The administrator shall require increased standard buffer widths or may require other
conditions be placed on the development on a case‐by‐case basis when necessary to
protect wetland functions and values based on local conditions. This determination
shall be supported by appropriate documentation showing that it is reasonably related
to protection of the functions and values of the regulated wetland. Such determination
shall be attached as a permit condition and shall demonstrate that:
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 50
(i) A larger buffer is necessary to maintain viable populations or critical habitat of
threatened or endangered species living within the subject wetland(s)
boundaries;
(ii) The adjacent land is susceptible to severe erosion and erosion control measures
otherwise required will not effectively prevent adverse wetland impacts;
(iii) There are other nearby wetlands or critical areas and adjustments to the buffers
would prevent fragmentation of the habitat or is otherwise necessary to
preserve the structure, function and value of the wetland;
(iv) The buffer is poorly vegetated due to lack of vegetation or invasive or non‐native
species being the dominant cover. Conditions would include enhancement of
the area, a larger buffer, or both, or
(v) If a buffer is based on the score for its ability to improve water quality (see Tables
8.52.110(E and F)) rather than habitat or other criteria, then the buffer should be
increased by 50% if the slope is greater than 30% (a 3‐foot rise for every 10 feet
of horizontal distance).
(c) Wetland Buffer Width Averaging.
The widths of buffers may be averaged if this will improve the protection of wetland
functions, or if it is the only way to allow for reasonable use of a parcel.
(i) Averaging to improve wetland protection may be permitted when all of the
following conditions are met:
a. As demonstrated by a report from a qualified wetland professional, the
wetland has significant differences in characteristics that affect its habitat
functions, such as a wetland with a forested component adjacent to a
degraded emergent component or a “dual‐rated” wetland with a Category
I area adjacent to a lower rated area;
b. The buffer is increased adjacent to the higher‐functioning area of habitat
or more sensitive portion of the wetland and decreased adjacent to the
lower‐functioning or less sensitive portion;
c. The total area contained in the buffer after averaging shall be no less than
that contained within the buffer prior to averaging. In other words,
mitigation for buffer impacts will be on a minimum of a 1:1 ratio; and
d. In no instance shall the buffer width be reduced to less than seventy‐five
percent of the required width for each of the wetland categories.
(ii) Averaging to allow reasonable use of a parcel may be permitted when all of the
following are met:
a. There are no feasible alternatives to the site design that could be
accomplished without buffer averaging;
b. The averaged buffer will not result in degradation of the wetland’s
functions and values as demonstrated by a report from a qualified wetland
professional;
c. The total buffer area after averaging is equal to the area required without
averaging; and
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 51
d. The buffer at its narrowest point is never less than 3/4 of the required
width.
(iii) Proposals for wetland buffer averaging shall be submitted to the Department
with a Mason Environmental Permit Application and a wetland categorization
and buffer determination. Approvals are made at the Director’s discretion.
(iv) Averaging may not be used in conjunction with any of the other provisions for
reductions in buffers (listed below).
(d) Wetland Buffer Reduction.
The width of the buffer may be reduced for proposed land uses with high‐intensity
impacts under the following conditions:
(i) For wetlands that score moderate or high for habitat (five points or more for the
habitat functions), the width of the buffer may be reduced to that required for
moderate‐intensity impacts provided that:
a. A relatively undisturbed, vegetated area corridor at least one hundred feet
wide is protected between the wetland and any other priority habitats as
defined by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Protection of the entire corridor shall be assured by a conservation
easement or equivalent legal protection;
b. Measures to minimize the impacts of the land use shall be applied.
Examples of these measures are shown in Table 8.52.110(G).
(ii) For wetlands that score less than five points for habitat, the buffer width can be
reduced to that required for moderate‐impact land uses provided that measures
to minimize the impacts of the land use shall be applied. Examples of these
measures are shown in Table 8.52.110(G).
(e) Wetland Buffer Conditions.
Except as otherwise specified, wetland buffers shall be retained in their natural
condition.
(3) Permitted Uses In A Wetland Buffer.
Regulated activities shall not be allowed within a buffer except as follows:
(a) Activities that are permissible within a wetland shall be permissible within a wetland
buffer; and
(b) Stormwater management facilities (bioswales and dispersal trenches) only when
required to allow a reasonable use of the property. Encroachment into the buffer shall
be the minimum necessary and will be permitted only within the outer twenty‐five feet
or outer twenty‐five percent of the buffer, whichever is more restrictive;
(c) Other passive activities such as recreational trails and tot lots are also permitted within
the outer twenty‐five percent of the buffer;
(d) Selective commercial timber cutting will be limited to the outer twenty‐five percent of
Category I and II wetland buffers and fifty percent of Category III and IV wetland
buffers. No more than thirty percent of the merchantable trees may be harvested in
this area on a one‐time‐only basis as associated with a land use conversion application.
The thirty percent harvest must be representative and maintain an intact forest
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 52
community character. The percentage and species distribution of all trees must be
consistent before and after the selective timber harvest.
(4) Structure Setback Lines.
A structure setback line of fifteen feet is required from the edge of any wetland buffer. Minor
structural intrusions into the area of the setback may be allowed if the administrator
determined that such intrusions will not negatively impact the wetland.
Table 8.52.110(G): Examples of measures to reduce impacts to wetlands.
Examples of Disturbance Activities and Uses that
Cause Disturbances
Examples of Measures to Minimize
Impacts
Lights • Parking lots
• Warehouses
• Manufacturing
• Residential
• Direct lights away from wetland
Noise • Manufacturing
• Residential
• Locate activity that generates
noise away from wetland
Toxic runoff* • Parking lots
• Roads
• Manufacturing
• Residential areas
• Application of agricultural
pesticides
• Landscaping
• Route all new, untreated runoff
away from wetland while ensuring
wetland is not dewatered
• Establish covenants limiting use of
pesticides within 150 ft of wetland
• Apply integrated pest management
Stormwater runoff • Parking lots
• Roads
• Manufacturing
• Residential areas
• Commercial
• Landscaping
• Retrofit stormwater detention and
treatment for roads and existing
adjacent development
• Prevent channelized flow from
lawns that directly enters the
buffer
Change in water regime • Impermeable surfaces
• Lawns
• Tilling
• Infiltrate or treat, detain, and
disperse into buffer new runoff
from impervious surfaces and new
lawns
Pets and human disturbance • Residential areas • Use privacy fencing: plant dense
vegetation to delineate buffer edge
and to discourage disturbance
using vegetation appropriate for
the ecoregion; place wetland and
its buffer in a separate tract
Dust • Tilled fields • Use best management practices to
control dust
* These examples are not necessarily adequate for minimizing toxic runoff if threatened or endangered
species are present at the site.
(F) Mitigation for Wetland Impacts.
(1) If wetland or wetland buffer impacts are proposed, the following sequence of review must be
considered.
(a) Avoid the impact all together by not taking a certain action or parts of an action;
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 53
(b) Minimize the impact by limiting the degree or magnitude of the action and its
implementation, by using appropriate technology, or by taking affirmative steps to
avoid or reduce impacts;
(c) Rectify the impact by repairing, rehabilitating or restoring the sensitive areas;
(d) Reduce or eliminate the impact over time by prevention and maintenance operations;
(e) Compensate for the impact by replacing, enhancing or providing substitute areas and
environments and replace the ecological processes and functions of the resource;
(f) Monitor the impact and taking appropriate corrective measures
(2) As a condition of any permit allowing alteration of wetlands and/or wetland buffers, the
county shall require that the applicant engage in the restoration, creation or enhancement of
wetlands and their buffers in order to offset the impacts resulting from the applicant's
actions.
When the acreage required for compensatory mitigation is divided by the acreage of impact,
the result is a number known variously as a replacement, compensation, or mitigation ratio.
Methods to achieve compensation for wetland functions shall be approached in the following
order of preference: restoration, creation, enhancement (defined in 8.52.030).
(3) The overall goal of any compensatory project shall be no net loss of wetland function and
acreage.
(4) Mitigation Ratios.
(a) Mitigation ratios for preservation in combination with other forms of mitigation shall
range from 10:1 to 20:1, as determined on a case‐by‐case basis, depending on the
quality of the wetlands being impacted and the quality of the wetlands being
preserved.
(b) Wetland mitigation ratios for restoration (re‐establishment and/or rehabilitation),
creation, and enhancement are illustrated in the following Table 8.52.110(H):
Table 8.52.110 (H): Wetland Mitigation Ratios.
Wetland
Category
Re-
establishment
or Creation
Rehabilitation
1
Re-establishment or
Creation (R/C) and
Rehabilitation
(RH)1
Reestablishment
or
Creation (R/C) and
Enhancement (E) 1
Enhance-
ment
Only 1
All Category IV 1.5:1 3:1 1:1 R/C and 1:1RH 1:1 R/C and 2:1 E 6:1
All Category III 2:1 4:1 1:1 R/C and 2:1 RH 1:1 R/C and 4:1 E 8:1
Category II
Estuarine Case-by-case
4:1
Rehabilitation
of an estuarine
wetland
Case-by-case Case-by-case Case-by-case
All other
Category II 3:1 6:1 1:1 R/C and 4:1 RH 1:1 R/C and 8:1 E 12:1
Category I
Forested 6:1 12:1 1:1 R/C and 10:1 RH 1:1 R/C and 20:1 E 24:1
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 54
Category I
based on score
for functions
4:1 8:1 1:1 R/C and 6:1 RH 1:1 R/C and 12:1 E 16:1
Category I
Natural Heritage
site
Not considered
possible3
6:1
Rehabilitation
of a Natural
Heritage site
R/C Not considered
possible3
R/C Not considered
possible3 Case-by-case
Category I
Coastal Lagoon
Not considered
possible3
6:1
Rehabilitation
of a coastal
lagoon
R/C not considered
possible3
Not considered
possible3 Case-by-case
Category I
Bog
Not considered
possible3
6:1
Rehabilitation
of a bog
R/C Not considered
possible3
Not considered
possible3 Case-by-case
Category I
Estuarine Case-by-case
6:1
Rehabilitation
of an estuarine
wetland
Case-by-case Case-by-case Case-by-case
1 These ratios are based on the assumption that the rehabilitation or enhancement actions implemented represent the
average degree of improvement possible for the site. Proposals to implement more effective rehabilitation or
enhancement actions may result in a lower ratio, while less effective actions may result in a higher ratio. The
distinction between rehabilitation and enhancement is not clear-cut. Instead, rehabilitation and enhancement actions
span a continuum. Proposals that fall within the gray area between rehabilitation and enhancement will result in a
ratio that lies between the ratios for rehabilitation and the ratios for enhancement.
.
2 Natural Heritage sites, coastal lagoons, and bogs are considered irreplaceable wetlands because they perform some
special functions that cannot be replaced through compensatory mitigation. Impacts to such wetlands would
therefore result in a net loss of some functions no matter what kind of compensation is proposed.
(c) The Administrator may increase or decrease the ratios based on one or more of the
following:
(i) Replacement ratios may be increased under the following circumstances:
a. Uncertainty exists as to the probable success of the proposed restoration
or creation;
b. A significant period of time will elapse between impact and establishment
of wetland functions at the mitigation site;
c. Proposed mitigation will result in a lower category wetland or reduced
functions relative to the wetland being impacted; or
d. The impact was an unauthorized impact.
(ii) Replacement ratios may be decreased under the following circumstances:
a. Documentation by a qualified wetland specialist (provided by the
applicant) demonstrating that more certainty that the proposed
compensation actions will be successful. For example, demonstrated prior
success with similar compensation actions as those proposed, and/or
extensive hydrologic data to support the proposed water regime;
b. Documentation by a qualified wetland specialist (provided by the
applicant) demonstrating that the proposed compensation actions will
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 55
provide functions and values that are significantly greater than the
wetland being impacted; or
c. The proposed mitigation actions are conducted in advance of the impact
and are shown to be successful.
(d) Compensation for wetland buffer impacts shall occur at a minimum 1:1 ratio.
(e) Preservation.
Impacts to wetlands may be mitigated by preservation of at‐risk, high‐quality wetlands
and habitat areas when used in combination with other forms of mitigation such as
creation, restoration, or enhancement. See “Appendix 8‐B Recommendations for
Wetland Language in a Critical Areas Ordinance” [Wetlands in Washington State
Volume 2 – Protecting and Managing Wetlands] published by the Washington
Department of Ecology (April 2005) for detailed requirements pertaining to the use of
preservation as mitigation.
(5) Off‐Site Compensatory Mitigation.
(a) Considerations for determining whether off‐site mitigation is preferable include, but
are not limited to:
(i) On‐site conditions do not favor successful establishment of the required
vegetation type, or lack the proper soil conditions, or hydrology;
(ii) On‐site compensation would result in an aquatic habitat that is isolated from
other natural habitats or severely impaired by the effects of the adjacent
development;
(iii) Off‐site location is crucial to one or more species that is threatened, endangered,
or otherwise of concern, and the on‐site location is not;
(iv) Off‐site location is crucial to larger ecosystem functions, such as providing
corridors between habitats, and the on‐site location is not; and
(v) Off‐site compensation has a greater likelihood of success or will provide greater
functional benefits.
(b) When determining whether off‐site mitigation is preferable, the value of the site‐
specific wetland functions at the project site, such as flood control, nutrient retention,
sediment filtering, and rare or unique habitats or species, should be fully considered.
(c) When conditions do not favor on‐site compensation, off‐site compensatory mitigation
shall be located as close to the impact site as possible, at least within the same sub‐
drainage basin unless:
(i) Watershed goals established by the county for water quality, flood storage or
conveyance, habitat, or other wetland function justify location of mitigation at
another site;
(ii) Credits from a state‐certified wetland mitigation bank are used as compensation
and the use of credits is consistent with the terms of the bank’s certification; or
(iii) Credits from an authorized in‐lieu fee mitigation program are purchased.
(d) Wetland Mitigation Banks.
(i) Credits from a wetland mitigation bank may be approved for use as
compensation for unavoidable impacts to wetlands when:
Resource Ordinance December 20, 2021 Page 56
a. The bank is certified under Chapter 173‐700 WAC;
b. The Administrator has determined that the wetland mitigation bank has
provided the appropriate compensation for the authorized impacts; and
c. The proposed use of credits is consistent with the terms and conditions of
the bank’s certification.
(ii) Replacement ratios for projects using bank credits shall be consistent with
replacement ratios specified in the bank’s certification.
(iii) Credits from a certified wetland mitigation bank may be used to compensate for
impacts located within the service area specified in the bank’s certification. In
some cases, the service area of the bank may include portions of more than one
adjacent drainage basin for specific wetland functions.
(6) Mitigation Plans.
When a project involves wetland and/or buffer impacts, a compensatory mitigation plan shall
be prepared by a qualified professional wetland scientist with a minimum of five (5) years
experience designing compensatory mitigation projects. The plan shall contain the following:
(a) The name and contact information of the applicant; the name, qualifications, and
contact information for the author of the Mitigation Plan; a description of the proposal;
a summary of the impacts and proposed compensation concept; and a vicinity map for
the project;
(b) Description of the existing wetland and buffer areas proposed to be impacted
including: acreages (or square footage) based on professional surveys of the
delineations; Cowardin classifications including dominant vegetation community types
(for upland and wetland habitats); hydrogeomorphic classification of wetland(s) on and
adjacent to the site; the results of a functional assessment for the entire wetland and
the portions proposed to be impacted; wetland rating based on subpart (E)(1) of this
chapter;
(c) An assessment of the potential changes in wetland hydroperiod from the proposed
project and how the design has been modified to avoid, minimize, or reduce adverse
impacts to the wetland hydroperiod;
(d) An assessment of existing conditions in the zone of the proposed compensation,
including: vegetation community structure and composition, existing hydroperiod,
existing soil conditions, existing habitat functions;
(e) A description of the proposed conceptual actions for compensation of wetland and
upland areas affected by the project;
(f) The field data collected to document existing conditions and on which future condition
assumptions are based for hydroperiod (e.g., existing hydroperiod based on piezometer
data, staff/crest gage data, hydrologic modeling, visual observations, etc.) and soils
(e.g., soil pit data ‐ hand dug or mechanically trenched, and soil boring data. Do not rely
upon soil survey data for establishing existing conditions.);
(g) A discussion of ongoing management practices that will protect wetlands after the
project site has been developed, including proposed monitoring and maintenance
programs (for remaining wetlands and compensatory mitigation wetlands);
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(i) Proposed conditions expected from the proposed actions on site including future
hydrogeomorphic types, vegetation community types by dominant species (wetland
and upland), and future hydrologic regimes;
(j) A planting schedule for the compensatory area including all species by proposed
community type and hydrologic regime, size and type of plant material to be installed,
spacing of plants, “typical” clustering patterns, total number of each species by
community type, timing of installation;
(k) Performance standards for upland and wetland communities, monitoring schedule, and
maintenance schedule and actions by each biennium;
(l) A bond estimate for the entire compensatory mitigation including the following
elements: site preparation, plant materials, construction materials, installation
oversight, maintenance for up to five (5) years, annual monitoring field work and
reporting for 5 to 10 years, and contingency actions for a maximum of the total
required number of years for monitoring; and
(m) A site plan(s), drawn to scale and including:
(i) Surveyed edges of the existing wetland(s) and the minimum wetland buffers and
setbacks, the proposed areas of wetland and/or buffer impacts, and the location
of proposed wetland and/or buffer compensation actions;
(ii) If any grading activity is proposed to create the compensation area(s), show the
existing topography, ground‐proofed, at two‐foot contour intervals in the zone of
the proposed compensation actions;
(iii) Required wetland buffers and setbacks for existing wetlands and proposed
compensation areas. Also, identify any zones where buffers are proposed to be
reduced or enlarged outside of the standards identified in this Title.
(7) Memorandum of Agreement.
Approval of the mitigation plan shall be signified by a notarized memorandum of agreement
signed by the applicant and the Administrator. The agreement shall refer to all requirements
for the mitigation project.
(8) Notice to Title.
The property owner shall record on the Title (with the Mason County Auditor) both the
memorandum of agreement and the approved site plan.
(9) Monitoring Requirements.
Mason County shall require monitoring reports on an annual basis for a minimum of five
years and up to ten years, or until the Administrator determines that the mitigation project
has achieved success. The wetlands mitigation plan shall provide specific criteria for
monitoring the mitigation project. Criteria shall be project‐specific and use best available
science to aid the Administrator in evaluating whether or not the project has achieved
success.
(10) Noncompliance.
The county may suspend or revoke a permit if it finds that the applicant has not complied
with the conditions or limitations set forth in the permit or has exceeded the scope of work
set for in the permit.
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(G) Permit Review.
The basic concern in the permitting process is to avoid and minimize wetland impacts. Permits are
issued when the applicant can demonstrate that the activity is both unavoidable and necessary. The
applicant must state the purpose of the proposed project and demonstrate the requirement for a
wetland location or access across wetlands and the reason it cannot be located at other sites, or at
another location on‐site.
(Ord. 138-06 (part), 2006: Ord. 106-04 Att. B (part), 2004; Ord. 36A-97 (part), 1997: Ord. 77-93 (part), 1993). (Ord.
No. 54-09, 6-16-2009)
8.52.120 Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas
In order to protect the public health and safety, prevent the degradation of groundwater aquifers used for
potable water, and to provide for regulations that prevent and control risks to the degradation of
groundwater aquifers, the following standards for Mason County are described in this section. Critical
aquifer recharge areas are those areas which are determined to have an important recharging effect on
aquifers used as a source for potable water and vulnerable to contamination from recharge. Critical
aquifer recharge areas are areas of special concern and are subject to the Mason County Health Codes.
(A) Classification of Aquifer Recharge Areas.
(1) Classes.
Critical aquifer recharge areas are classified as either Class I (Extremely Susceptible), Class II
(Highly Susceptible), Class III (Moderately Susceptible), or Class IV (Low Susceptibility), as
described below.
(2) Methodology.
The aquifer classification system and maps were developed by a qualified geologist in
consultation with the Washington Department of Natural Resources and considering data
from the following sources;
(a) Mineral Resources of the Southern Hood Canal Area, Washington; Mackey Smith and R.
J. Carson; Department of Geology and Earth Resources ‐ Geologic Map GM‐21; 1976.
(b) Geology and Related Water Occurrence, Southeastern Mason County, Washington; Dee
Molenaar and John B. Noble; Water Supply Bulletin No. 29, Department of Water
Resources, State of Washington; 1970.
(c) Geologic Map of the South Half of the Shelton and South Half of the Copalis Beach
Quadrangles Washington; Robert L. Logan; Washington Division of Geology and Earth
Resources; Open file Report 87‐9; 1987.
(d) Geologic Map of North Central Mason County; R. J. Carson; Department of Geology and
Earth Resources; Open File Report 76‐2; 1976.
(e) Soil Conservation Maps for Mason County Washington; various.
(f) Topographic maps for Mason County; various.