19.78.020 Applicability.
A. This chapter applies to all clearing, grubbing, and grading.
B. Exemptions. This chapter does not apply to the following actions, unless in the vicinity of a critical area:
1. The installation and maintenance of fire hydrants, water meters, pumping stations, and street furniture by the city or its contractors;
2. Removal of trees and ground cover in emergency situations involving immediate danger to life or property or substantial fire hazards;
3. Removal of dead or diseased trees or ground cover;
4. Removal of 6,000 square feet or less of trees or ground cover on a lot that contains an existing permitted building and is capable of being divided into two or more lots, for purposes of general property and utility maintenance or landscaping except that:
a. Any land clearing that includes the use of a bulldozer or similar mechanical earthmoving equipment is not exempt; and
b. Land clearing for the purpose of developing the property with substantial permanent improvements such as roads, driveways, utilities or buildings is not exempt.
5. Clearing, grubbing, and grading activities described herein including any level of vegetation or ground-disturbing action within a critical area or buffer is subject to AMC Chapter 19.70, Critical Areas. If a proposed activity is exempt from critical area permit requirements, the Director has the discretion to require a clearing and grading permit even if the proposed activity is exempted in this section. (Ord. 3064 § 2 (Att. A), 2021; Ord. 2991 § 1 (Att. A), 2016)