§ 21.15.090. Open space for multifamily projects.

For multifamily developments a minimum of twenty percent of the gross site area shall be set aside and utilized as open space area for use and enjoyment of future residents of the development. Such open space shall at a minimum meet the following standards:

A.

Open space area must be designed to be attractive and usable for active as well as passive recreation opportunities. No use shall be allowed within open space that adversely affects the aesthetic appeal or usability of the open space.

B.

For the purpose of calculation of the twenty percent requirement, open space shall be separate and distinct from buffers, required yard areas, setbacks, and other undeveloped portions of the site.

C.

Open space area shall have convenient access for residences of the development and shall be consolidated to provide maximum access, visibility, usability, minimization of impacts to residential uses, and ease of maintenance.

D.

Open space areas shall be designed and placed in consideration of existing and potential open space on adjacent parcels to provide consolidation or opportunities for future consolidation of neighborhood open space areas.

E.

Existing trees and significant vegetation shall be maintained in open space areas unless an alternate landscaping plan for such areas is required or approved by the department.

F.

Cash or like value of land area and improvements may be donated to the county for open space purposes to fulfill open space requirements within that specific parks planning area. Acceptance will be at the discretion of the county.

(Ord. 11274 § 1 (part), 1996)