18S.30.080 Shoreline Modifications.
The intent of the Shoreline Modification policies and regulations is to limit those actions that modify the physical configuration or qualities of the shoreline area. Shoreline modifications are those actions that modify the physical configuration or qualities of the shoreline area, usually through the construction of a physical element such as a dike, breakwater, pier, weir, dredged basin, fill, bulkhead, or other shoreline structure. They can include other actions, such as clearing, grading, or application of chemicals.
A. Applicability. The policies and regulations of this Section shall apply to all uses and development within all shoreline environment designations.
B. Policies.
1. Allow structural shoreline modifications only where they are demonstrated to be necessary to support or protect an allowed primary structure that is in danger of loss or substantial damage or are necessary for reconfiguration of the shoreline for mitigation or enhancement purposes.
2. Reduce the adverse effects of shoreline modifications and, as much as possible, limit shoreline modifications in number and extent.
3. Allow only shoreline modifications that are appropriate to the specific type of shoreline and environmental conditions for which they are proposed.
4. Assure that shoreline modifications individually and cumulatively do not result in a net loss of ecological functions. This is to be achieved by giving preference to those types of shoreline modifications that have a lesser impact on ecological functions and requiring mitigation of identified impacts resulting from shoreline modifications.
5. Plan for the enhancement of impaired ecological functions where feasible and appropriate while accommodating permitted uses. As shoreline modifications occur, incorporate all feasible measures to protect ecological shoreline functions and ecosystem-wide processes.
6. Avoid and reduce significant ecological impacts according to the mitigation sequence in Table 18S.30.030-1, Mitigation Sequencing.
C. Regulations.
1. New in-stream structures shall be designed to avoid modifying flows and water quality in ways that may adversely affect critical fish species.
2. In-stream structures shall provide for the protection and preservation of ecosystem-wide processes, ecological functions, and cultural resources including, but not limited to, fish and fish passage, wildlife and water resources, shoreline critical areas, hydrogeological processes, and natural scenic vistas.
3. The location and planning of in-stream structures shall give due consideration to the full range of public interests, watershed functions and processes, and environmental concerns, with special emphasis on protecting and restoring priority habitats and species.
4. Regulations for shoreline stabilization, to include breakwaters, jetties, groins, and weirs, are found in PCC 18S.30.070, Shoreline Stabilization, and in Chapter 18E.110 PCC, Erosion Hazard Areas.
5. Regulations for piers and docks are found in PCC 18S.40.140, Water Access Facilities.
6. Regulations related to filling, dredging and dredge material disposal are found in PCC 18S.30.040, Excavation, Dredging, Filling, and Grading.
7. Regulations for shoreline habitat and natural systems enhancement are found in PCC 18S.40.110, Restoration and Enhancement.