14.50.597.02 Regulations.
A. All utility system projects and maintenance shall be designed, located and installed in a manner which results in no net loss of ecological function.
B. Water-oriented utilities are allowed in the shoreline jurisdiction.
C. If a utility is required to be sited in shoreline jurisdiction, a mitigation plan must be prepared by a qualified professional consistent with the provisions of Section 14.50.430.
D. Where utilities must be located in shoreline jurisdiction, the utilities must:
1. Be designed and constructed to meet all adopted engineering standards.
2. Provide for compatible, multiple-use sites and rights-of-way whenever feasible. Compatible uses include shoreline access points, trails and other forms of recreation and transportation, provided these uses do not interfere with utility operation, endanger public health and safety or cause a significant and disproportionate liability for the owner.
3. Minimize processes affecting the rate of channel migration or shoreline erosion. Where this may occur, the shoreline administrator may require a monitoring plan and adaptive management measures prepared by a qualified professional as appropriate.
4. Limit clearing to the minimum necessary for installation or maintenance. Impacts associated with removal of vegetation or clearing shall be mitigated on site.
E. In addition to the standards above, utility lines within the shoreline jurisdiction shall:
1. Be undergrounded, except where technical, environmental or geological conditions make undergrounding infeasible.
2. Be sited within the footprint of an existing right-of-way or utility easement, wherever feasible in locations where rights-of-way and easements exist.
3. Avoid paralleling the shoreline or following a down-valley course near the channel, except where located in an existing road or easement footprint.
F. If an underwater location is necessary for the siting of utilities, the following performance standards apply:
1. The design, installation and operation shall minimize impacts to the waterway and the resident aquatic ecosystems.
2. Seasonal work windows may be made a condition of approval.
3. All state and federal permits must be obtained.
4. A maintenance schedule and emergency repair protocol shall be prepared and recorded.
G. After the installation of a utility system or the completion of a maintenance project, the disturbed area shall be regraded to match the natural terrain and replanted to prevent erosion and provide appropriate vegetative cover, including meeting standards of Section 14.50.430.