A. The purpose of a shoreline variance is strictly limited to granting relief from specific bulk, dimensional or performance standards set forth in the SMP where the strict implementation of the master program will impose unnecessary hardships on the applicant or thwart the policies set forth in RCW 90.58.020.

B. The criteria in WAC 173-27-140 and 173-027-170 shall constitute the minimum criteria for review and approval of a shoreline variance.

C. The hearing examiner may attach conditions to the approval of the shoreline variance as necessary to assure consistency of the proposal with the above criteria.

D. The decision of the hearing examiner shall be the final decision of the city. Ecology shall be the final authority authorizing a shoreline variance consistent with WAC 173-27-200.