19.70.425 General development standards.
A. All development activities and uses are prohibited in geologically hazardous areas and their buffers, except as provided for in this chapter, and only when it is demonstrated that the activity will not create undue risk to life, health, and safety.
B. Exemptions and Allowed Activities. Exemptions are listed in the provisions established in AMC 19.70.040, Exempt activities.
C. Approvals. Alterations of geologically hazardous areas or associated buffers may only occur pursuant to this chapter, and as determined by a qualified professional with concurrence by a third party review, for activities that:
1. Will not increase the threat of the geological hazard to adjacent properties beyond pre-development conditions;
2. Will not adversely impact other critical areas;
3. Are designed so that the hazard to the project is eliminated or mitigated to a level equal to or less than pre-development conditions; and
4. Are determined to be safe as designed and under anticipated conditions by a qualified professional, licensed in the state of Washington.
D. Mitigation. Proposed mitigation techniques are considered to provide long-term hazard reduction only if they do not require regular maintenance or other actions to maintain their function. Mitigation may be required to avoid any increase in risk above the preexisting conditions, including following abandonment of the activity.
E. Critical Facilities Prohibited. Critical facilities may not be sited within geologically hazardous areas unless there is no other practical alternative.
F. International Building Code. All development must conform to the provisions of the currently adopted International Building Code as amended by the city of Anacortes, including submittal of a critical area report. (Ord. 3064 § 2 (Att. A), 2021)