Article VI. Critical Areas Report
14.04.190 Critical areas report – Requirements.
A. Preparation by Qualified Professional. If required by the director in accordance with BMC 14.04.170(D)(3), the applicant shall submit a critical areas report prepared by a qualified professional as defined herein.
B. Incorporating of Best Available Science. The critical areas report shall use scientifically valid methods and studies in the analysis of critical areas data and field reconnaissance and reference the source of science used. The critical areas report shall evaluate the proposal and all probable impacts to critical areas in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
C. Minimum Report Contents. At a minimum, the report shall contain the following:
1. The name and contact information of the applicant, a description of the proposal, and identification of the permit requested;
2. A copy of the site plan for the development proposal including:
a. A map to scale depicting critical areas, buffers, the development proposal, and any areas to be cleared; and
b. A description of the proposed storm water management plan for the development and consideration of impacts to drainage alterations;
3. The dates, names, and qualifications of the persons preparing the report and documentation of any fieldwork performed on the site;
4. Identification and characterization of all critical areas and buffers within 300 feet of the proposed project area;
5. A statement specifying the accuracy of the report, and all assumptions made and relied upon;
6. An assessment of the probable cumulative impacts to critical areas resulting from development of the site and the proposed development, including a functions and values analysis;
7. An analysis of site development alternatives including a no development alternative;
8. A description of reasonable efforts made to apply mitigation sequencing pursuant to BMC 14.04.210, Mitigation sequencing, to avoid, minimize, and mitigate adverse impacts to critical areas;
9. Plans for adequate mitigation, as needed, to offset any adverse impacts, in accordance with BMC 14.04.230, Mitigation plan requirements, including, but not limited to:
a. The impacts of any proposed development within or adjacent to a critical area or buffer on the critical area; and
b. The impacts of any proposed alteration of a critical area or buffer on the development proposal, other properties and the environment;
10. A discussion of the performance standards applicable to the critical area and proposed activity;
11. Financial guarantees to ensure compliance; and
12. Any additional information required for the critical area as specified in the corresponding section.
D. Unless otherwise provided, a critical areas report may be supplemented by or composed, in whole or in part, of any reports or studies required by other laws and regulations or previously prepared for and applicable to the development proposal site, as approved by the director. (Ord. 2349 § 2, 2021; Ord. 2010 § 1 (Exh. B), 2009; Ord. 1946 § 3, 2005).