“Natural topography” or “natural grade” means the elevation of a parcel of land prior to any human modification of the contours and physiography.

“New construction” means structures for which the start of construction commenced on or after the effective date of applicable development regulations.

“Nonconforming building.” See “Building, nonconforming.”

“Nonconforming use” means a use of land or a structure which was lawful when established and which does not now conform to the use regulations of the zone in which it is located. A use shall be considered established if it conformed to applicable zoning regulations at any time, or when it has commenced under permit, a permit for the use has been granted and has not expired, or a structure to be occupied by the use is substantially underway as defined in the International Building Code.

“Non-invasive vegetation” means any vegetation, either naturally occurring or introduced, that is not poisonous or has not been found to compete or choke out other desirable vegetation, as determined by the city, and which does not result in unusual amounts of time, effort or extraordinary methods to control, eradicate or manage.

“Normal rainfall” means that rainfall that is at or above the mean of the accumulated rainfall record, based upon the water year, for the city as recorded at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport or other local rainfall recording station.

“Nursery, plant” means an area where plants are grown for transplanting, for use as stocks for budding or grafting, or for sale.

“Nursing home” means a facility which provides short- or long-term care for seniors and other persons who need skilled nursing care but do not require hospitalization. (Ord. 1946 § 1, 2005; Ord. 1815 § 1, 2000; Ord. 1796 § 1, 2000; Ord. 1691 § 1, 1997; Ord. 1628 § 1, 1996).