HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC Agenda Packet 04222026REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
PLANNING COMMISSION
April 22, 2026
6:00 - 8:00 PM
Notice is hereby given that the Port Angeles Planning Commission will meet on Wednesday, April
22, 2026 starting at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers in City Hall located at 321 E. 5th
Street, Port Angeles, WA. This meeting will be conducted as a hybrid meeting. In hybrid
meetings, members of the public, Committee members, and City staff have the option to attend the
meeting in person at City Hall or remotely through the Webex virtual meeting platform. For those
planning to attend remotely, learn how to watch the meeting live and participate during the public
comment period by visiting: https://www.cityofpa.us/Live-Virtual-Meetings
For audio only please call: 1-844-992-4726
Use access code: 2559 205 1516
Webinar password: PC04222026 (72042220 when dialing from a phone or video system)
Once connected press *3 to raise your virtual hand, if you wish to make a comment or public
testimony. You will be notified when it is your turn to speak. This access code will work for the
April 22, 2026 meeting only.
If you are joining the meeting through the Webex link and wish to make a comment or provide
public testimony, please use the “raise your hand” feature in Webex. You will be notified when it
is your turn to speak.
Virtual Webex Meeting Link:
https://cityofpa.webex.com/cityofpa/j.php?MTID=m5573d85d13d63a74dff7de729126d055
The meeting is open to the public.
I.CALL TO ORDER
II.ROLL CALL
III.COMMISSIONER INTRODUCTION
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT
V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Minutes of the February 25, 2026 Meeting
VI. ACTION/DISCUSSION ITEMS
1. Action: Public Hearing for MCA 26-0044, Phase I Municipal Code Updates. A
municipal code amendment to Titles 11, 14, and 18 to improve organization, clarity, and
administration of fire, life safety, inspection, and occupancy-related provisions
2. Action: Public Hearing for MCA 26-0067, Type 0 Permitting. A municipal code
amendment to Title 18, creating additional Type 0 permit application types.
3. Action: Annual Planning Commission Elections. In accordance with Section
2.25.070 PAMC, Commissioners will nominate and elect a Chair and Vice Chair.
VII. STAFF UPDATES
1. Monthly Customer Service Report
2. Monthly Type 0/OTC Report
3. Monthly 5290 Report
4. Monthly Affordable Housing Report
5. Monthly Natural Resources Verbal Report
6. Monthly Land Use and Permitting Verbal Report
7. Monthly Building Report
8. Quarterly Business Licensing Report
9. Quarterly Grant Report
VIII. REPORTS OF COMMISSION MEMBERS
IX. PUBLIC COMMENT
X. ADJOURNMENT
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
Port Angeles, Washington
February 25, 2026
This meeting was conducted as a hybrid meeting.
CALL TO ORDER - REGULAR MEETING
Chair Steiger called the regular meeting of the Port Angeles Planning Commission to order at 6:01 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Planning Commission Chair Steiger, Vice Chair Stanley, Commissioners: Schorr, Kiedrowski. Mellema
Members Absent: Commissioner McMillian.
Staff Present: Planning Supervisor Ben Braudrick, Long Range and Special Projects Administrator Angel
Torres, Housing Administrator Jalyn Boado, Natural Resources and Grant Administrator Courtney
Bornsworth, Senior Development Services Specialist Pat Bartholick, Building Inspector/Licensing
Administrator Chris Jackson, and Community Development Technician Triston Carlstrom
PUBLIC COMMENT
Azalea Stanley, Resident, praises Vice Chair Stanley's tenure on the Planning Commission.
AGENDA ITEMS
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Minutes of the January 28, 2026 Meeting
Action Item:
It was moved by Shorr and seconded by Kiedrowski to:
Approve the January 28, 2026, Meeting Minutes.
Motion carried 4-4.
1. Discussion: MCA Phase 1 Update Introduction. Staff presentation by Fire Marshall Joel
McKeen and Long Range and Special Projects Administrator Angel Torres introducing future
municipal code update regarding certificate of occupancy processes, fire code, fire alarms, fire
zones, automatic fire sprinkler systems, fire inspections, building moving, and urban services
Commissioner Kiedrowski asked what issues this Fire code addresses and whether you can explain the
coordination between departments. How is the appeal process changing, and why are you changing the
appeal processes?
Vice Chair Stanley stated that Fire codes often affect housing development. Port Angeles is not a very fast-
growing city. Has there been any discussion amongst staff about how the fire code updates will affect
housing development? Have developers voiced any opposition to the code update? Encourages staff to be
flexible with the Fire code when possible and to clearly communicate these changes to developers.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 1
CITY OF PORT ANGELES PLANNING COMMISSION – February 25, 2026
Page 2 of 3
Commissioner Shorr expresses gladness for an updated Fire and Certificate of Occupancy Change. She
questioned how these updates would specifically affect businesses. How have businesses been following
the Fire, Life, and Safety inspection requirements? Are there fees associated with Fire-related corrections
or reinspections? States that there could be backlash from businesses that were not compliant in years past,
before there was a full-time Fire Prevention specialist. If staff hear concerns from businesses, they should
consider the feedback and provide accommodations, such as waiving fees when applicable.
Commissioner Mellema stated that not all businesses own their building. What is their responsibility to do
the Fire system annual testing?
Chair Steiger appreciates that there is no overregulation for the code update. Praised the Fire Department
for their efficient Fire Inspection procedures. How does this affect home businesses? Will the Fire code
updates require fire sprinklers in multifamily developments?
Commissioner Kiedrowski appreciates the codification of the Fire processes. Fire prevention programs are
often funded by LID lifts. Why is there a specific fee for Fire inspections when there is an LID lift? Who
uses the most Fire services in Port Angeles?
Vice Chair Stanley appreciates the mitigation efforts, and in the long run, it will create cost savings for our
community members. He appreciates that staff decisions are backed by research.
Chair Steiger encourages staff to consider a sliding scale fee structure for smaller businesses.
STAFF UPDATES
Monthly Customer Service Report
Community Development Technician Carlstrom presented the Customer Service Report.
Commissioner Shorr, what is a customer interaction?
Monthly Type 0/OTC Report
Community Development Technician Carlstrom presented the over-the-counter report.
Chair Steiger asked what the baseline for Type 0 permits is.
Monthly 5290 Report
Building Inspector/Licensing Administrator Jackson presented the 5290 report.
Monthly Affordable Housing Report
Housing Administrator Boado presented the monthly affordable housing report, shared an update on the
Housing Action Plan Housing task progress, and housing-related legislation.
Commissioner Kiedrowski, what is the definition of multifamily? What is the one industrial permit in the
building report?
Monthly Natural Resources Report
Natural Resource and Grant Administrator Bornsworth presented an oral report of the monthly natural
resource-related programs and actions.
Monthly Land Use Permitting Report
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 2
CITY OF PORT ANGELES PLANNING COMMISSION – February 25, 2026
Page 3 of 3
Long-range and Special Projects Administrator Torres, presented an oral report of the monthly land use
permitted activities.
Monthly Building Report
Senior Development Services Specialist Bartholick presented the monthly building report for January
2026.
Commissioner Kiedrowski, how do the staff feel about the upcoming development this year?
Quarterly Grant Report
Natural Resource and Grant Administrator Bornsworth, presented the quarterly grant report.
COMMISSION REPORTS
Chair Steiger, watched the Feb 17. CC meeting and appreciated the presentations from the unhoused
community providers.
Vice Chair Stanley, shared a speech about his eight years served on the Planning Commission.
Commissioners Schorr, No update.
Commissioner Kiedrowski, shares experience in building a residential development. He encourages staff
to be flexible and use all the tools in the PAMC to encourage housing development.
Commissioners Mellema, No update.
Motion made by Chair Steiger for the City Council to recognize Ben Stanley’s commitment to the Planning
Commission over the last 8 years.
Seconded by Kiedrowski.
Motion passed 4 to 5.
SECOND PUBLIC COMMENT
John R., Resident praised the CED technician team for their quick responses. Congratulates Ben Stanley
on his volunteering services.
Azaelea Stanley, Resident excited about the trampoline park.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Steiger motioned to adjourn the meeting at 7:31 p.m.
_____________________________________ _______________________________
Chair Steiger, Chair Jalyn Boado, Secretary
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 3
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 1 of 9
EXHIBIT 1: STAFF REPORT
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Planning Division
DATE: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
RE: Municipal Code Amendment Applications 26-0044 and 26-0067
I. BACKGROUND
The City is undertaking a multi-phased municipal code update to improve clarity, organization,
and alignment with the Vision 2045 Comprehensive Plan. This effort builds on prior City
Council direction and the adopted Municipal Code Amendment work plan.
Phase 1 of this work plan was introduced to the Planning Commission on February 25, 2026,
as a fire and life safety introduction focused on updates to fire and life safety regulations,
inspections, and certificate of occupancy requirements. This report builds on that
introduction and presents the Phase 1 amendment package for public hearing. In addition to
the fire and life safety items presented in February, the current package also includes selected
Type 0 over-the-counter permitting amendments developed in response to prior City Council
direction.
The proposed amendments are organizational and procedural in nature and do not introduce
new regulatory standards. All life-safety provisions continue to reflect the most recently
adopted International Building Code and International Fire Code. Phase 1 affects Titles 11, 14,
and 18 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code. The amendment package is intended to improve
code usability, internal consistency, transparency, and administrative predictability. It is not
intended to rezone property, expand land use entitlements, or reduce adopted life-safety
protections.
This phase also builds on prior City actions. In December 2025, City Council directed further
expansion of the over-the-counter permitting program and requested that an ordinance be
brought to Planning Commission for recommendation to the City Council in April 2026. The
adopted 2026-2028 Planning Commission Workplan identifies Phase 1 as the life-safety and
over-the-counter permitting update to be developed between January and April 2026.
The Phase 1 amendment package is the product of prior City direction, internal code audit
work, targeted outreach, environmental review, and formal public process. The following
timeline summarizes the major milestones supporting the development of the proposed
amendments.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 4
Exhibit 1: MCA 26-0044 and 26-0067 Staff Report
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 2 of 9
• December 2, 2025. City Council considered amendments to the Master Fee Schedule and
directed further expansion of the over-the-counter permitting program, including
evaluation of additional eligible permits and transmittal of an ordinance to the Planning
Commission by April 2026.
• January 28, 2026. The Planning Commission adopts the staff-recommended 2026-2028
Planning Commission Workplan, which includes MCA 26-0044 as Phase 1 of the planned
four-phase development code update.
• February 25, 2026. Staff introduced Phase 1 to the Planning Commission as the fire and
life safety introduction, focusing on inspections, certificate of occupancy requirements,
and related procedural cleanup.
• January through March 2026. Staff conducted an internal kickoff, scope definition, code
audit, drafting, and interdepartmental refinement of the Phase 1 amendment package.
• April 22, 2026. Planning Commission Public Hearing.
Implementation identified in the Phase 1 work program includes updates to frequently asked
questions, website content, certificate of occupancy materials, public information, and
related permit routing following Council action.
III. CODIFICATION GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
The Planning Commission has been asked to consider the Phase 1 amendment package as a
focused administrative and organizational update to Titles 11, 14, and 18 of the Port Angeles
Municipal Code. Staff have approached this proposal through the following goals and
objectives:
Goal 1: Administrative Clarity
Objective 1.1: Consolidate certificate of occupancy procedures into a clearly identified
chapter so requirements are easier to locate, interpret, and administer.
Objective 1.2: Document annual fire and life safety inspection procedures in a single code
location rather than relying on scattered references or implied administrative practice.
Objective 1.3: Improve public-facing readability of occupancy, inspection, and related review
requirements.
Goal 2: Procedural Consistency
Objective 2.1: Align review authority, appeal language, and procedural references across
related code chapters.
Objective 2.2: Remove outdated, duplicative, or conflicting procedures that create uncertainty
for staff, applicants, residents, and businesses.
Objective 2.3: Improve coordination across Community and Economic Development, Fire, and
Public Works review functions.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 5
Exhibit 1: MCA 26-0044 and 26-0067 Staff Report
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 3 of 9
Goal 3: Internal Code Alignment and Correction
Objective 3.1: Correct outdated cross-references and inconsistent code citations.
Objective 3.2: Align related fire suppression and response-time language across affected
sections to improve interpretive consistency.
Objective 3.3: Maintain consistency with the City’s adopted building and fire code framework.
Goal 4: Predictable Low-Complexity Permit Processing
Objective 4.1: Expand eligible Type 0 over-the-counter permit pathways for selected low-
complexity permits.
Objective 4.2: Preserve administrative safeguards where project scope, overlapping
regulations, or site conditions warrant additional review.
Objective 4.3: Improve predictability and processing efficiency for applicants and staff while
maintaining adopted safety requirements.
Goal 5: Documentation of Existing Programs and Practices
Objective 5.1: Codify existing certificate of occupancy and annual inspection practices
already being administered by the City.
Objective 5.2: Reduce reliance on department-specific interpretation where procedures can
be stated clearly in code.
Objective 5.3: Improve long-term transparency and administrative durability of routine review
processes.
Goal 6: Better Code Placement and Departmental Alignment
Objective 6.1: Relocate provisions whose current code location does not reflect the
department with actual review authority.
Objective 6.2: Improve internal code organization across Titles 11, 14, and 18.
Objective 6.3: Support more logical and consistent administration of the Municipal Code.
V. OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT
Targeted outreach completed or underway includes:
• Planning Commission 2026-2028 Workplan Adoption – January 28, 2026
• Waterfront District/Elevate PA – February 10, 2026
• Planning Commission MCA 26-0044 Introduction – February 25, 2026
• Port Angeles Association of Realtors – March 26, 2026
• North Peninsula Builders Association – April 2, 2026
• Planning Commission Public Hearing – April 22, 2026
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 6
Exhibit 1: MCA 26-0044 and 26-0067 Staff Report
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 4 of 9
VI. PROCEDURE
MCA 26-0044 and 26-0067 are citywide non-project actions that require public notice, a public
hearing, and a final legislative decision by the City Council. These actions were accomplished
on the following dates:
• March 27, 2026. Determination of Non-Significance issued for SEPA 26-0075.
• April 1, 2026. Public notice for MCA 26-0044, MCA 26-0067, and associated SEPA 26-0075
published in the P.
• April 14, 2026. Written comment period and SEPA DNS comment period close.
• April 22, 2026. Planning Commission public hearing.
• May 19, 20026. City Council first reading of ordinance.
• June 2, 2026. City Council second reading of ordinance.
VII. PUBLIC COMMENT
Public Comment:
See Exhibit 4, Public Comment Memo
City of Port Angeles Departmental Comments:
Comments received from the City of Port Angeles Departments have been incorporated into
this report’s findings and conditions.
VIII. PROPOSED MUNICIPAL CODE UPDATES
Title 11 – Streets, Sidewalks, and Public Places
The proposal relocates building moving provisions from former Chapter 14.32 to a new
Chapter 11.10 so that code placement better reflects Public Works and Utilities'
responsibilities for right-of-way use, traffic impacts, utility coordination, and the protection of
public infrastructure.
Title 14 – Buildings and Construction
The proposal creates new Chapter 14.15 for certificate of occupancy procedures and new
Chapter 14.30 for annual fire and life safety inspections. The proposal also revises portions of
Chapters 14.01, 14.21, 14.23, 14.24, and 14.26 to remove outdated language, correct cross-
references, and improve consistency with adopted building and fire code provisions.
New Chapter 14.15 clarifies when a certificate of occupancy is required, how it is issued,
posting requirements, and related review or appeal procedures. Practical triggers identified in
the record include new construction, major tenant improvements, changes of use, and
occupancy of existing commercial space when prior occupancy is unknown. It also
distinguishes a Business Occupancy Verification program for businesses changing ownership.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 7
Exhibit 1: MCA 26-0044 and 26-0067 Staff Report
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 5 of 9
New Chapter 14.30 documents the City’s existing annual fire and life safety inspection
program in a dedicated chapter. The chapter applies to all businesses and commercial
occupancies, vacant commercial and industrial buildings, and multifamily residential
occupancies of three or more units, including common areas.
The inspection program addresses recurring compliance issues, including means of egress,
alarm and sprinkler readiness, hazardous materials storage, correction timelines, and
reinspection procedures. This codifies an existing program in a more transparent and
accessible format rather than creating a new life-safety program from scratch.
Related revisions to Chapters 14.01, 14.21, 14.23, 14.24, and 14.26 remove outdated appeals
language, correct cross-references, and improve consistency. Within Chapter 14.21, Fire
Department Access Roads provisions adopt International Fire Code Section 503 and IFC
Appendix D as the baseline standard for access requirements, while maintaining the Fire
Marshal’s authority to evaluate site-specific feasibility and allow reasonable modifications
based on topography, terrain, and location, provided operational fire department objectives
are met. These revisions do not change adopted fire flow requirements, sprinkler thresholds,
or other underlying technical life-safety standards.
Title 18 – Growth Management
The proposal revises PAMC 18.02.050 to expand eligible Type 0 over-the-counter permit
pathways for selected low complexity permits across multiple departments. Although these
revisions were not part of the February 25 fire, life and safety introduction memo, they were
added to the Phase 1 package in response to prior City Council direction regarding expansion
of over-the-counter permitting. The proposal also revises PAMC 18.02.185 to clarify review
treatment for revisions submitted after a final permit decision. It revises related provisions in
Chapter 18.08 to improve consistency between fire suppression and urban service language.
IX. FINDINGS OF FACT AND STAFF ANALYSIS
Comprehensive Plan
All municipal code amendments must be consistent with the Port Angeles Comprehensive
Plan. The following adopted goals and policies are the strongest direct policy support for the
Phase 1 amendment package.
Land Use Element:
Goal LU-7: Growth Management and Regional Cooperation
Policy LU-7.5: Assure that development review and permit processes operate in a fair, timely,
and predictable manner and update processes from time to time to incorporate best
practices, changes in law, and align with community priorities and values.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 8
Exhibit 1: MCA 26-0044 and 26-0067 Staff Report
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 6 of 9
Housing Element:
Goal H-3: Housing Quality. Encourage the design, construction, and maintenance of housing
to keep homes in good condition.
Policy H-3.7: Adequately and fairly enforce zoning and building codes to abate abandoned
properties and ensure rental housing is safe, livable, and well-maintained.
Transportation Element:
Goal T-3: Move people and goods safely by improving circulation and transportation facilities.
Policy T-3.2: Strengthen development regulations as necessary to preserve right-of-way along
roadways to facilitate implementation of the City’s adopted Complete Streets policy.
Capital Facilities Element:
Goal CF-1: Provide and maintain safe and financially feasible urban services and capital
facilities at or above stated levels of service to all City residents and the general public, and
ensure equitable access and outcomes for all community members.
Policy CF-1.1: Establish general level of service standards for each urban utility and service.
Such standards should be used to assess the impacts of development and ensure the
continued provision of utilities and services. These standards should prioritize equitable
service delivery and be regularly evaluated for their impact across different communities
within the city, and if a funding shortfall occurs in the CFP as a result of revenue assumptions,
the City will reassess the land use element at that time.
Staff Analysis: Collectively, these goals and policies support MCA 26-0044 and MCA 26-0067
because the proposed amendments remain focused on organization, clarity, procedural
consistency, documentation of existing practices, and correct alignment of review authority,
without creating new adopted life-safety standards or expanding land use entitlements.
The proposal supports Goal LU-7 and Policy LU-7.5 by periodically reviewing and updating
code provisions, correcting procedures, and improving fair, timely, and predictable
administration of permit and inspection requirements.
Goal H-3 and Policy H-3.7 are supported through the clarification of inspection and occupancy
procedures affecting the safe and lawful use of buildings, including commercial occupancies,
vacant commercial and industrial buildings, and multifamily residential occupancies of three
or more units.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 9
Exhibit 1: MCA 26-0044 and 26-0067 Staff Report
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 7 of 9
With respect to the moving amendments, the proposal supports Goal T-3 and Policy T-3.2 by
aligning review authority with right-of-way protection, service delivery responsibilities, and
preservation of roadway function and public infrastructure. The proposal also supports Goal
CF-1 and Policy CF-1.1 by improving administrative clarity and consistency in provisions tied
to urban services, review procedures, and life-safety implementation. These revisions
maintain adopted fire and life-safety standards while improving the organization and
administration of the code.
Housing Action Plan
The 2025 Housing Action Plan identifies local barriers to housing production and reuse,
including aging housing stock, infrastructure constraints, limited workforce capacity, and
regulatory barriers that can increase cost and uncertainty for applicants and property owners.
Staff Analysis: The Housing Action Plan is not the primary policy basis for Phase 1. However,
Phase 1 modestly supports the City’s broader housing implementation framework by
improving clarity, reducing administrative friction for selected low-complexity permits, and
making code requirements affecting occupancy and building reuse easier to locate and
understand.
Climate Resiliency Plan
The primary policy basis for this amendment package is the Comprehensive Plan, City Work
Plan, SEPA record, and the draft amendment text itself.
Staff Analysis: The 2022 Climate Resiliency Plan includes a focus on community resilience
and wellbeing. MCA 26-0044 and 26-0067 are consistent with that direction by improving
administrative clarity, supporting more predictable permit and inspection processes, and
helping the City better respond to community needs through clearer implementation of
existing requirements. The amendments also support continued investment in commercial
areas, building maintenance and reuse, and long-term infrastructure stewardship. These
updates can also support building improvements that increase efficiency and reduce building-
related greenhouse gas emissions.
Port Angeles Municipal Code
The following PAMC provisions are seen as relevant to this application. Planning Staff provides
comments under each provision as a demonstration of the analysis conducted during the
application review process and the findings of fact relevant to the application.
Title 18
Per PAMC Section 18.02.050, the City Council has the authority to review and is authorized
and directed to hear and decide on Type V permit applications.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 10
Exhibit 1: MCA 26-0044 and 26-0067 Staff Report
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 8 of 9
Staff Analysis: A Municipal Code Amendment requires a public hearing before the Planning
Commission. The recommendation to the City Council is based on the draft plan,
comprehensive public comments, the Port Angeles Municipal Code, and information available
during the public engagement process. Such a decision may be appealed to the Superior
Court, provided that the appeal is filed within 21 days of the City Council's decision, as per
Chapter 36.70C RCW. If an appeal is not filed within the applicable period, the City Council's
decision is final. A timely appeal of any City Council decision will stay all further proceedings
by the Department of Community and Economic Development, specifically related to the
periodic update under appeal.
Environmental Review
A Determination of Non-Significance under SEPA 26-0075 was issued on March 27, 2026. The
DNS was issued under WAC 197-11-340(2), with a 14-day comment period ending on April 14,
2026.
The SEPA record characterizes the proposal as legislative, citywide, and administrative. The
checklist states that the amendment package itself does not propose site-specific
construction, new housing units, demolition, or land-use changes. Future development
authorized under the amended code will still be required to comply with all applicable City,
State, and Federal requirements.
The checklist further states that the proposal is not likely to increase discharges to water,
emissions to air, production or release of hazardous substances, or noise; is not likely to
affect plants, animals, fish, or marine life; is not likely to deplete energy or natural resources;
and is not anticipated to conflict with local, state, or federal environmental protection laws.
Consistency
In preparation and submission of a Municipal Code Amendment, City Staff has demonstrated
that all standards will be met in accordance with the City’s Comprehensive Plan and the Port
Angeles Municipal Code.
IX. CONCLUSIONS
Having reviewed and considered the draft amendment package, the SEPA record, public
comment, and all other materials presented in the legislative record, City staff recommends
that the Planning Commission forward a recommendation of approval to City Council for MCA
26-0044 and MCA 26-0067 based on the following conclusions:
1. Analysis and findings of fact from staff are based on the draft code language, municipal
code, adopted plans, public comment, and other materials available during the review
period. Collectively, the information contained in this staff report and its Attachments
forms the record of review for this legislative amendment package.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 11
Exhibit 1: MCA 26-0044 and 26-0067 Staff Report
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 9 of 9
2. MCA 26-0044 and MCA 26-0067 are citywide legislative actions affecting Titles 11, 14, and
18 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code.
3. The proposed amendments are organizational and procedural in nature and do not create
new adopted life-safety standards. Applicable fire and building code requirements
continue to be governed by the most recently adopted International Building Code and
International Fire Code.
4. The proposal improves administrative clarity by consolidating certificate of occupancy
procedures, documenting annual fire and life safety inspection practices, correcting cross-
references, clarifying related procedures, and better aligning review authority and code
placement across related chapters.
5. The proposal is consistent with the adopted Comprehensive Plan policies addressing
periodic code review, fair and predictable permit processing, code enforcement affecting
safe occupancy, right-of-way protection, and coordinated provision of urban services.
6. The proposal also includes selected Type 0 over-the-counter permit pathways added
pursuant to prior City Council direction, while preserving administrative safeguards where
project scope, site conditions, or other regulations warrant additional review.
7. The amendment package is legislative and citywide and does not authorize site-specific
disturbance or development independent of future permit review under applicable City
regulations.
X. RECOMMENDATION
The Planning Division recommends that the Planning Commission recommend approval of
Municipal Code Amendment Nos. 26-0044 and 26-0067 to the City Council. This
recommendation is based on staff review of the draft code language, Port Angeles Municipal
Code, adopted plans, the SEPA record, and submitted public comments.
XI. EXHIBIT LIST
Exhibit 2: Draft Code 26-0044
Exhibit 3: Draft Code 26-0067
Exhibit 4: Public Comment Memo
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 12
Exhibit 2
CHAPTER 11.10 BUILDING MOVING - USE OF PUBLIC ROADS (MOVED FROM
CHAPTER 14.32 AND AMENDED)
Only those items noted as follows are being adjusted: deleted, new or changed. All other items remain as is.
11.10.010 Purpose and scope.
It is the purpose of this chapter to establish standards, including minimum requirements, for the moving of all
buildings and other structures within the corporate limits of the City, including movement over, along, or across
any public right of way. This chapter also and to provides for the issuance of a permits, the collection of various
fees, and inspection services for all such movements.
Regulation of building moves is necessary to ensure that the City receives notice of proposed moves, coordinates
utility disconnections, manages traffic impacts, and protects public and private property and persons through
adequate surety and insurance. buildings being moved in the City so that utility services and traffic disruptions
can be dealt with safely and possible damage to City and/or private property is protected through adequate
bonding and/or insurance.
Permits issued under this chapter are subject to the requirements of PAMC 18.02, Administration of Project Permit
Applications and Review Procedures.
11.10.020 Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter, the following terms, phrases, and words are defined shall have the meanings given
in this section:
A. "Applicant" is the person who applies for a permit to move a building pursuant to this chapter.
B. "Building" is any structure wider than eight feet six inches or taller than 14 feet six inches. Height must
shall be deemed to include the vehicle or dolly system being used to move the structure.
C. "Building Official" is the Building Official of the City of Port Angeles or his/her designee.
C. “City Engineer” is the City Engineer of the City of Port Angeles or their designee.
D. "Owner" is the person who owns the building being moved.
E. "Permittee" is the person who applies for and receives a permit to move a building pursuant to this
chapter.
F. "Person" is any person, firm, partnership, association, corporation, company or organization of any
kind.
11.10.030 Building moving permit.
A. No person will shall move any building over, along, or across any highway, street, or alley in the City without
first obtaining a building moving permit from the Building Official Department of Public Works and Utilities.
B. The permit required in this section and the other requirements of this chapter will shall be in addition to all
existing permits and requirements of the construction codes and ordinances of the City.
C. Any structure specifically licensed or permitted by the State of Washington or the United States Department
of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for travel on streets and highways is exempt from this chapter.
D. Building moving permit will be processed in accordance with Chapter 11.12 Right-of-Way Use, with all
additional requirements determined in this chapter.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 13
Exhibit 2: MCA 26-0044 Code Amendment Line In/Line Out Edits
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 2 of 30
11.10.040 Application.
A. An applicant seeking issuance of a building moving permit under this chapter must shall file an application
for such permit with, and upon forms provided by, the Building Official Department of Public Works and
Utilities.
B. The application shall set forth and must include the following:
1. A description of the building proposed to be moved, giving including the street number address of the
existing and proposed site locations and the lot and building dimensions;
2. The highways, streets, alleys, and lots over, along, or across which the building is proposed to be
moved;
3. Proposed moving date and hours of work;
4. A structural analysis prepared and stamped by a qualified licensed design professional that confirms
the building to be moved is safe and structurally sound to be moved;
5. All information describing the applicant's qualifications as required in PAMC 14.32 11.10.050;
6. The fee established required in PAMC 14.32.060 Appendix A, in the City’s Master Fee Schedule, PAMC
Appendix A;
7. A statement that the applicant specifically agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the City of Port
Angeles, its officials, employees, and agents, against any loss, damage, cost, and/or expense (including
attorneys' fees reasonably incurred), which may in any way occur against the City in consequence of
granting the building moving permit to the applicant;
8. Any additional information which the Building Official City Engineer finds necessary in order to make a
fair determination of whether a permit should be issued.
C. The application must shall be accompanied by any other required applications, permits, or approvals.
11.10.050 Qualifications.
In order for a building moving permit to be issued by the Building Official Department of Public Works and Utilities,
the applicant must meet the following qualifications:
A. Hold valid current registration under the State Contractors Registration Act either as a general or
specialty contractor authorized to engage in the building moving business;
B. Demonstrate the ability to perform the task of moving buildings in a workmanlike manner by
presenting evidence of experience and appropriate equipment.
11.10.060 Fees.
All fees are located within the most current edition of the City’s Master Fee Schedule, PAMC Appendix A. The
building moving permit fee is set forth in a resolution authorized by Chapter 1.25 PAMC and is in addition to all
other fees for construction or relocation of the building on the new site, see Appendix A.
11.10.070 Deposit, bond, and insurance.
A. Prior to permit issuance, the applicant must shall submit the following:
1. A deposit to the City equal to 150 percent of the amount estimated by the Building Official City
Engineer to compensate the City for its expenses that will be incurred in removing and replacing any
City property, the removal and replacement of which will be required by reason of the moving of the
building through the City.
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2. A surety bond, or cash or other security in lieu of said bond, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney,
posted with the City in the sum of $5,000.00 to guarantee performance of the moving operation and
placement of the building in accordance with the plans submitted for the moving of said building and
to cure or pay for any damages caused to public or private facilities as part of the movement of the
building along City streets.
3. A certificate of insurance against claims for injuries to persons or damage to property, which may arise
from or in connection with the performance of the work associated with the building move by the
applicant, its agents, representatives, employees, or subcontractors. Said policy shall be issued by a
responsible insurance company authorized to do business under the laws of the State of Washington.
Said policy shall insure the permittee, shall name the City of Port Angeles as an additional insured, and
shall insure to the benefit of any and all persons suffering loss or damage either to person or property
by reason of any operations of the permittee. Said policy shall insure against loss from the liability
imposed by law for injury to, or death of any person, and damage to property, in the amount or limit of
$1,000,000.00 per occurrence. Any person receiving a permit under the terms of this chapter, must
provide to the City satisfactory proof of the existence of a comprehensive liability insurance policy
providing coverage of not less than $1,000,000.00 for personal injury to any one person, $3,000,000.00
for injury to more than one person arising out of the same incident, and $100,000.00 for property
damage, against claims arising pursuant to permits issued pursuant to this chapter. The permittee must
obtain and deliver to the City an endorsement to such policy, naming the City as an additional insured.
B. In addition to the deposit, bond, or other security, and insurance provided pursuant to this section, the
permittee shall also be is liable for any expense, damages, or costs in excess of deposited amounts,
securities, or insurance, and the City may prosecute an action against the permittee in a court of competent
jurisdiction for the recovery of such excessive amounts.
C. When the building move moving of the building is completed, any damage has been repaired to the City’s
satisfaction of the City, and all associated damage costs or costs of performing the work as required in this
chapter have been paid, the City will refund any unused portion amount of the deposit shall be refunded,
and release any the remaining bond, cash, or other security shall be released.
11.10.080 Permit issuance.
A. The City will issue a building moving permit only if the following are met:
1. All requirements in this chapter have been complied with;
2. All applicable requirements from Chapter 11.12 Right-of-Way Use have been complied with;
3. The building is not too large to move without endangering persons or property, or causing
unacceptable damage to trees, plants, and shrubs, in the City;
4. Certification that the building is structurally sound enough to be moved as determined by a qualified
licensed design professional; The building is not in a state of deterioration or disrepair and is not
otherwise so structurally unsafe that it could not be moved without endangering persons and property
in the City;
5. The applicant's equipment is licensed for operation on state highways;
6. There are no other reasons that persons or property in the City would be endangered by moving the
building;
7. The City Engineer and Chief of Police, or their designees, have approved the route selected by the
applicant for moving the building and have specified whatever conditions to the building moving
permit may be necessary to protect persons and property in the City and minimize congestion and
traffic hazards on public roads streets and alleys;
8. The zoning and other ordinances of the City would not be violated by moving the building or placing it
in its new location;
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9. The owner has demonstrated that all City assessments and any other City charges against the property
or the property owner have been removed, paid in full, or otherwise discharged to the satisfaction of
the City;
10. The applicant has demonstrated that all necessary utility disconnect arrangements have been made;
11. The owner has acquired a demolition permit and paid the necessary fees to cap the sewer and water
lines and remove the electrical service.
12. If the planned route includes a State highway or County road, the applicant must obtain written
approval from the Washington State Department of Transportation, Clallam County, or any other
affected jurisdiction, as applicable.
B. Prior to permit issuance, the Building Official shall inspect the building, whether located inside or outside the
City limits, and the applicant's equipment, and shall determine whether or not the standards for issuance of
a permit and all other requirements of this chapter have been met.
B.C. The Building Official City Engineer may approve, approve with conditions, shall have sole discretion to issue,
condition, or deny a building moving permit in accordance with this chapter. The City Engineer and may
suspend or revoke a permit, for cause, at any time. , at any time, for sufficient cause, revoke or suspend any
permit previously issued.
C.D. Issuance of By issuing a building moving permit does not constitute a warranty by the City, neither the City,
the Building Official City Engineer, or any other official or employee of the City shall be deemed to have
warranted that all public health safety, cultural, and welfare concerns have been addressed. or shall be held
The City and its officials and employees are not responsible for any damage or injury that may occur during,
or as a result of, the building move. moving of the building.
11.10.090 Performance requirements.
Every permittee under this chapter must shall:
A. Move a building only over streets roads designated and approved for such use in the approved permit
and conduct such move using due diligence and to the satisfaction of the City Engineer and Chief of
Police;
B. Notify the Building Official City Engineer within a minimum of 24 hours in advance of a desired change
in the moving date and/or hours as proposed in the application and not proceed until the Building
Official City Engineer has approved the new date and/or time;
C. Notify the City Engineer and Chief of Police not less than 24 hours business days before the actual work
of moving the building is to commence;
D. Make necessary arrangements with any public utility, the City or other entity, whichever is the owner,
for displacing or changing the location of any pole, wire, cable, or other equipment or structure that
may be necessary in order to move the building, and for paying the costs thereof;
E. Make necessary arrangements acceptable to any owner of trees, plants, and shrubs for trimming,
moving, removing, or replanting them as may be necessary in order to move the building, and for
paying the costs thereof;
F. Notify the Building Official City Engineer in writing of any and all damage done to property belonging to
the City within the next business day after the damage has occurred;
G. Protect the building during nighttime using flashing lights and warning barricades as necessary to warn
and protect the public;
H. Comply with the City's construction codes and all other applicable City ordinances;
I. Pay the expense of a traffic police officer(s) if required by the Chief of Police to accompany the
movement of the building to protect the public;
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J. Ensure that the building move is completed in accordance with the requirements of this ordinance this
chapter and that the no portion of the building or any part thereof is not left standing or abandoned
while the same is in or upon any part of on any highway, street, or alley road. provided that if If the
permittee fails to does not comply with the requirements of this ordinance, the City may perform
proceed to do the work necessary to achieve compliance, and the cost thereof shall be charged the
costs against the surety bond, cash or other security provided pursuant to this chapter.
11.10.100 Owner's responsibilities.
The applicant must shall notify the owner of the following requirements. , and the The owner is responsible shall
be responsible for complying with these, the following requirements:
A. Prior to the move, make arrangements to ensure that the sewer is capped, the water supply is shut off,
the electrical supply is terminated, and any other utility services have been properly provided for, in
conformance with the requirements of the affected utility departments or companies.
B. After the move, ensure that the following work has been completed so that the premises from which
the building has been moved are left in a safe and sanitary condition:
1. All rubbish and materials have been removed;
2. Any openings, excavations, or basements remaining on the property have been filled to street
level or the level of the adjoining property, unless otherwise directed by the Building Official City
Engineer;
3. Any septic tanks or cesspools on the property have been properly filled or otherwise secured
abandoned as required by and in accordance with the State and County health regulations;
4. Any underground storage tanks have been properly secured abandoned as required by State and
County regulations.
11.10.110 Appeal.
A person aggrieved by the denial or conditioning of a project permit decision may appeal the decision to the City’s
Hearing Examiner pursuant to Article V of PAMC 18.02. To initiate an appeal, the appellant must file a notice of
appeal with the applicable Director, as defined in PAMC 18.02.020, and pay the appeal fee established in the City’s
Master Fee Schedule (PAMC Appendix A).
Any person aggrieved by the denial or conditioning of a permit under this chapter may appeal such action to the
Director of Public Works by filing a notice of appeal with the Building Official and paying the appeal fee set forth in
a resolution authorized by Chapter 1.25 PAMC (see Appendix A) within ten calendar days following the date of the
Building Official's decision.
11.10.120 Violations.
Each day a violation of this chapter occurs or continues constitutes a separate offense and is subject to
enforcement and penalties under PAMC 2.90. Any person violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall be
deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which any violation of any of
the provisions of this chapter is committed, continued, or allowed. Each such violation shall be punishable in the
same manner as violations of the construction codes of the City as set forth in Chapter 14.01 PAMC.
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CHAPTER 14.01 CONSTRUCTION CODES
Only those items noted as follows are being adjusted: deleted, new or changed. All other items remain as is.
14.01.010 Construction codes defined.
Building construction within the City of Port Angeles shall be is governed by the codes, laws, and ordinances, as
adopted and amended in Title 14 PAMC, which shall be collectively referred to known as the ‘Construction codes.’
Of the City of Port Angeles.
14.01.020 Purpose and policy.
The construction codes of the City of Port Angeles are enacted under as an exercise of the City’s police power to
for the protection of the protect public health, safety, and welfare. Of the general public. The provisions of these
said codes establish shall constitute minimum standards and are not intended, and should not be regarded as,
instruction manuals for untrained persons.
It is the City’s policy to administer and enforce these regulations of the City of Port Angeles that the regulation of
construction within the City be administered and enforced as uniformly and as efficiently as practicable, consistent
with the public interest and the, as well as the interests of property owners, contractors, developers, and the
community. Citizenry in general, will allow.
Permits issued under this chapter are subject to the requirements of PAMC 18.02, Administration of Project Permit
Applications and Review Procedures.
14.01.030 Copy of construction codes on file.
One copy of each construction code of the City of Port Angeles shall be is on file with the City Clerk and will be
available for public review.
14.01.040 Vested rights.
Work Any work for which a project permit application is submitted under this to the City pursuant to this Title will
be is reviewed in accordance with the laws and regulations which were in effect at the time when the City
receivesd the application.
14.01.050 Construction near City utilities and easements.
No New construction or remodeling of existing structures must not shall encroach upon or interfere with City
utilities or easements, either above or below the ground, and must comply with nor shall such construction violate
applicable construction codes. Any costs incurred by the City to modify or relocate in modifying or relocating
utilities due to brought about by such construction, except for an increase in service, are the responsibility of the
property owner. Shall be payable to the City by the owner of the property on which such construction takes place.
14.01.060 Enforcement authority.
The construction codes of the City of Port Angeles shall be are administered and enforced by the City Manager,
and the City officials, and employees appointed and designated designed by him pursuant to Title 35A RCW,
including but not limited to all commissioned Police Officers of the Port Angeles Police Department, the Building
Official or the Fire Marshal or their designees, and any other officials and employees by those City officials and
employees as are specifically designated in said the construction codes. These individuals are referred to as All
such officials and employees shall be known as “enforcement officers” and shall have the authority to issue
citations and perform all actions other necessary to administer and enforce this Title. Administration and
enforcement actions as provided in said construction codes and in Title 14 PAMC.
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14.01.070 Right of entry.
The authority right of enforcement officers to enter any premises is subject to local, shall be governed by Chapter
1.20 PAMC and by State, and Federal law.
14.01.080 Inspection of concealed work.
In the event that If any work is covered or concealed before required inspections being inspected as required by
under the construction codes of the City of Port Angeles, an enforcement officer may require order the removal of
that portion of the building as is necessary to permit inspection of the work., and neither The City and its nor the
enforcement officers are not responsible shall in any way be held liable for the removal or replacement of that
such portion of the building.
14.01.090 Appeals.
A. Appealable issues. This section shall governs appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations, made by the
applicable Director as defined in PAMC 18.02.020, the Building Official, Fire Chief, Electrical Inspector, their
designees, or any enforcement officer as defined in PAMC 14.01.060, regarding the suitability of alternative
materials and methods of construction and the application and interpretation of the construction codes of
the City of Port Angeles construction codes and any other building regulations or codes as may be designated
by ordinance.
B Any person aggrieved by the denial or conditioning of a decisions described in subsection A of PAMC
14.01.090 may appeal such action pursuant to Article V of PAMC 18.02 to the City’s Hearing Examiner by
filing a notice of appeal with the applicable Director as defined in PAMC 18.02.20 and paying the appeal fee
set forth in the most current edition of the City’s Master Fee Schedule, PAMC Appendix A.
B. Construction Code Board of Appeals. Appeals of issues set forth in PAMC 14.01.090 shall be heard by the
Construction Code Board of Appeals (Board). The Board shall consist of five members appointed by the City
Council, all of whom shall serve without compensation, and who shall be qualified by experience and training
to pass upon the matters set forth in PAMC 14.01.090. All present members of the Building Code Board of
Appeals are hereby confirmed as members of the Construction Code Board of Appeals and shall remain on
the Board for the period of their present appointments. Thereafter, all appointments shall be for four-year
terms, provided that any vacancy shall be filled for the period of the unexpired term. None of the five
appointed members shall serve more than two consecutive four-year terms. The Fire Chief, the Building
Official, and the Electrical Inspector shall each act as an ex-officio member of the Board for matters governed
by the construction code that is his or her primary responsibility to administer and enforce and shall either
act as secretary to the Board or designate another City staff member to act in such capacity.
C. Limitations of authority. The Board shall have no authority relative to interpretation of the administrative
provisions of the construction codes nor shall the Board or any other person or enforcement officer be
empowered to waive any requirements of said codes.
D. Filing of appeals. An appeal to the Board may be filed by any person having legal standing or a legal interest
in the building or land involved in the appealable issue by filing a written notice of appeal with the City Clerk
and paying the fee set forth in a resolution (for fees see Appendix A) authorized by Chapter 1.25 PAMC
within 30 days from the date that notice of any appealable action is served by either personal delivery or by
deposit in the United States Mail, except where other service is specifically provided in the construction
codes. The filed appeal must contain:
1. A heading in the words: "Before the Construction Code Board of Appeals of the City of Port Angeles";
2. A caption reading: "Appeal of _______," giving the names of all appellants participating in the appeal;
3. A brief statement setting forth the legal standing, or legal interest in the building or the land involved
in the notice and order of each of the appellants;
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4. A brief statement in ordinary and concise language of the specific order, decision, or determination
appealed, together with any material facts claimed to support the contentions of the appellant;
5. A brief statement in ordinary and concise language of the relief sought and the reasons why it is
claimed that the appealed order, decision, or determination should be reversed, modified, or
otherwise set aside;
6. The signatures of all parties named as appellants and their official mailing addresses;
7. The verification, by declaration under penalty of perjury, by at least one appellant as to the truth of the
matters stated in the appeal.
E. Procedures of the Board. The Construction Code Board of Appeals shall follow the procedures set forth in this
section and in any other reasonable rules and regulations that the Board may see fit to adopt, subject to the
approval of the City Council.
F. Scheduling and noticing appeal for hearing. As soon as practicable after receiving a written appeal, the
Secretary shall fix a date, time, and place for the hearing of the appeal by the Board. Such date shall be not
less than ten days nor more than 60 days from the date that the appeal was filed with the City Clerk. Written
notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given at least ten days prior to the date of the hearing to
each appellant by the Secretary of the Board either by personal delivery or by deposit in the United States
Mail.
G. Record and findings on appeal. All hearings and appeals before the Board shall be recorded and every
decision of the Board shall be in writing and shall include findings of fact and conclusions representing the
official determination of the Board and specifying the basis for the decision. All parties to the appeal shall be
notified of the Board's decision either by personal delivery or by mail. A copy of the record or any part
thereof shall be transcribed and furnished to any person upon request therefor and payment of the
reasonable costs thereof.
H. Scope of Board's review. In rendering its decision, the Board may, in conformity with the applicable
construction code, reverse or affirm, wholly or in part, or may modify, the order, decision, or determination
appealed from, and may make such other order, decision, or determination as the Board deems necessary
and proper.
I. Judicial review. The decision of the Board shall be final and conclusive unless within 21 days from the date of
service by either personal delivery or deposit in the United States Mail the appellant files a petition to the
Superior Court of the State of Washington for Clallam County. The proper and timely filing of such petition
shall stay the enforcement of the decision of the Board during the pendency of the Superior Court litigation,
except when a stay of the decision presents an exigent danger to the health and safety of persons or
property.
14.01.100 Violations and penalties.
Each day a violation of this chapter occurs or continues constitutes a separate offense and is subject to
enforcement and penalties under PAMC 2.90.
Any person, firm, or corporation, violating any of the provisions of any of the construction codes of the City of Port
Angeles shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which any
violation of any of the provisions of any of the construction codes of the City of Port Angeles is committed,
continued, or permitted. Each such offense shall be punishable by a maximum civil fine of $500.00.
14.01.110 Liability for injury or damage.
The construction codes of the City of Port Angeles shall not be construed to do not relieve or reduce from or lessen
the responsibility of any person for injury or damage to persons damage to or property caused by or resulting from
any defect of any nature., nor shall The City and or its enforcement officers do not be deemed to have assumed
any such liability for such injury or damage by reason of the inspections, or other actions authorized actions, by the
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construction codes or the issuance of any permits or certificates. issued thereunder, provided that in rendering In
issuing approvals based on such inspections, the City's enforcement officers must shall not knowingly approve any
work that is such enforcement officers know to be hazardous and shall must not knowingly provide make
inaccurate express assurances regarding work regulated by the construction codes that result in injury or damage.
to any person, which assurances cause damage or injury to such person.
14.01.115 Street standards for lots without City street access.
Before a Prior to issuance of certificates of occupancy is issued or final inspection approvedal for a building permits
for on a lots or parcels without established City street access, required street access improvements must shall be
completed accomplished in accordance with this section.
A. No current access to lots (five or more dwelling units per block). Where no there is no current street access
exists, the street providing that will provide access to, and fronting, the lots or parcels must being developed
shall be improved to the minimum City street improvement standards, as set forth in PAMC Chapter 16.08
PAMC. Permeable pavement roadways and sidewalks designed to urban service standards and guidelines are
preferred, where feasible. Preferred access improvements shall be permeable pavement road and sidewalk
to urban services standards and guidelines, if feasible. These requirements apply when: in the following
circumstances:
1. The development includes consists of five or more dwelling units or more within an area fronting on
City street right-of-way 500 feet or less in length or less;
2. The lots or parcels being developed are under common ownership or are part of the same
development plan scheme as determined by the City Community and Economic Development Planning
Director and are planned to be being developed within a period of 24 months period. or less.
B. No current access to lots (four or fewer dwelling units less than five dwelling units per block). Where there is
no current street access exists, the street providing that will provide access to, and fronting, the lots or
parcels must being developed shall be improved with as permeable pavement roadways and sidewalks to
urban services standards and guidelines, if where feasible. If not feasible, Otherwise, access improvements
must shall be consist of a gravel access road meeting to the standards approved by the City Engineer. These
requirements apply when in the following circumstances:
1. The development consists of four or fewer dwelling units or less;
2. A consent and non-protest Local Improvement District (LID) agreement is executed is entered
into to provide full street improvements in accordance with PAMC, as set forth in Chapter 16.08
PAMC, for the block within which the development occurs.
C. Current gravel access. Where there is currently City maintained gravel or bituminous surfacing access exists
as of the effective date of this section ordinance as shown on Exhibit A, the property owner must execute a
consent and non-protest Local Improvement District LID agreement shall be entered into to provide full
street improvements, in accordance with PAMC as set forth in Chapter 16.08 PAMC, for the block within
which the development occurs.
D. No current gravel access for single-family residences. Where there is no current gravel access exists for a
single lot being developed for a single-family residence, independent of any other development, the
property owner must execute a consent and non-protest LID agreement shall be entered into to provide
access improvements road to the standard approved by the City Engineer for the block within which the
development occurs. Preferred access improvements include shall be permeable pavement roadways and
sidewalks to meeting City standards, if where feasible. If not feasible, Otherwise, access must be provided by
a gravel road access per meeting City standards.
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CHAPTER 14.03 BUILDING CODE
14.03.010 Construction codes adopted.
Pursuant to Chapters 19.27 RCW and 19.27A RCW and Title 51 WAC, the following codes are adopted:
A. The current edition of the State Building Code, Chapter 19.27 RCW, including amendments, updates,
additions and other changes as made from time to time, applies within the jurisdiction of the City, except as
amended in Chapter 14.03 PAMC and Chapter 14.21 PAMC.
B. The current edition of the International Building Code, Appendix H: Signs, including any amendments,
updates, additions, and other changes made from time to time, applies within the jurisdiction of the City,
except as amended in Chapter 14.03 PAMC. The Uniform Sign Code, 1997 Edition, published by the
International Conference of Building Officials.
14.03.020 Amendments to International Codes.
Pursuant to RCW 19.27.040 RCW, RCW 19.27.060(3) and (4) RCW, and PAMC 14.03.010, the following
amendments to the International Building Code, International Residential Code, International Fire Code, and
Uniform Sign Code are adopted:
A. International Building Code, International Residential Code, Section [A]105.5, and the International Fire
Code. Section [A] 105.3.1 are hereby amended to read as follows:
(a) Building and fire permits expire shall become expired one year from the date of issuance.
C. International Building Code, Section 903.2 is amended by adding the following:
903.2.13 Automatic Sprinklers must shall be provided:
(a) In all buildings where the floor area exceeds 6,250 square feet on all floors, unless a smaller threshold is
required by the International Building Code;
However, the height and area increases specified in Sections 504 and 506 for sprinklered buildings (for sprinklers)
shall be are permitted.
For the purpose of this subsection, portions of buildings separated from the rest of the building in accordance with
the International Building Code may be considered as separate buildings.
G. International Building Code, Appendix H – Signs, Section H101.2 – Signs exempt from permits is deleted.
Signs exempt from permits are regulated by PAMC Chapter 14.36.050.
H. International Building Code, Appendix H – Signs, Section H102 – Definitions: Where there is a conflict in
definitions between Appendix H and PAMC 14.36.020, the PAMC will prevail.
I. International Building Code, Appendix H – Signs: Where there is a conflict in any design requirements, such
as height, size, or other aesthetic characteristics, except building structural or safety requirements, the PAMC
will prevail.
G. International Residential Code is amended to exempt the replacement of non structural siding that does not
result in construction less than the minimum performance standards and objectives contained in the state
building code.
H. Uniform Sign Code, Chapter 3, Section 301, is amended by adding the following: Provided that presently
existing signs not in conformity with this code, as amended, may be maintained in their present condition
unless hazardous, but may not be altered or reconstructed unless in conformity with this code.
I. Uniform Sign Code, Chapter 3, Section 303: Delete #3, signs less than six feet above grade.
J. Uniform Sign Code, Chapter 4, delete Table 4-B. In lieu thereof, Chapter 32, Section 3205.2 of the Uniform
Building Code, 1997 Edition, shall apply to projection of signs.
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14.03.030 Factory-built housing and factory-built commercial structures.
An No installation permit shall be issued for factory-built housing or and factory-built commercial structures must
not be issued until the Light Department reviews and approves the electrical metering equipment, electrical
service equipment, and short circuit fault duty of the electrical equipment in order to ensure compatibility that
such equipment is safe and compatible with Light Department electrical meters and wiring standards and to
protect public safety.
14.03.040 Fees.
Building Permit The building code fees are established set forth in the City’s Master Fee Schedule, PAMC Appendix
A. in a resolution authorized by Chapter 1.25 PAMC, see Appendix A.
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CHAPTER 14.15 CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY REVIEW AND BUSINESS
OCCUPANCY VERIFICATION PROGRAM AND PROCEDURES (NEW)
14.15.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to establish clear, consistent, and enforceable requirements for the issuance,
correction, posting, and maintenance of Certificates of Occupancy (COs) reviews within the City of Port Angeles.
Certificate of Occupancy and Business Occupancy reviews confirm that a building, structure, or tenant space
complies with applicable building, fire, zoning, and life-safety regulations for the approved occupancy and use.
This Chapter is intended to:
A. Protect public health, safety, and welfare;
B. Ensure that buildings are occupied only for approved uses and occupancies;
C. Distinguish between Certificates of Occupancy issued following construction and those required for changes of
use, tenant improvements, or new business operations.
D. Establish coordination between the Community and Economic Development Department and the Fire
Department.
14.15.020 Applicability.
A Certificate of Occupancy is required for all commercial, industrial, multifamily, and other occupancies regulated
by the PAMC and 19.27 RCW.
This Chapter applies to:
A. Newly constructed buildings or structures;
B. Existing buildings following completion of permitted construction, alteration, or remodeling;
C. Changes in use, occupancy classification, or intensity of use;
D. Establishment of a new business or business owner within an existing building or tenant space; and
E. Existing buildings when a discrepancy or error is identified in a previously issued Certificate of Occupancy.
F. Existing buildings that have not obtained a required Certificate of Occupancy or that do not comply with the
existing Certificate of Occupancy requirements.
14.15.030 Definitions
For the purpose of this chapter, the following terms, phrases, and words are defined in this section. Terms not
defined in this section have the meanings assigned in the Port Angeles Municipal Code, adopted building codes, or
RCW.
A. Business Occupancy Verification means the verification of zoning compliance, occupancy classification, and
life-safety conditions prior to a New Business Occupancy.
B. Commercial, Industrial, and Public Certificate of Occupancy (CO) means an official document issued by the City
certifying that a building or portion thereof complies with applicable codes, is approved for a specific use and
occupancy classification, and identifies the construction type, the allowed occupant load, whether there is an
automatic fire sprinkler system, the edition of the code the certificate was issued under, the name and
address of the owner and all other items as required by the Washington State adoption of the International
Codes per 19.27 RCW. The Building Official and Fire Marshal must approve and sign all Commercial, Industrial,
and Public Certificates of Occupancy.
C. Certificate of Occupancy Review means the verification of zoning compliance, occupancy classification, and
life-safety conditions prior to occupancy being granted for an existing building that includes a change of use.
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D. Change of Occupancy means any change in the occupancy classification of a building or structure and any
change in the purpose or change in the level of activity within a building or structure, whether or not
construction occurs, that may affect code requirements, occupancy classification, and life-safety provisions.
E. Construction-Based Certificate of Occupancy: A Certificate of Occupancy issued following completion of
permitted construction, alteration, or remodeling and required final inspections.
F. New Business Occupancy means the commencement of new business operations or a change of business
ownership within an existing building or tenant space that does not change the occupancy classification or use
of the structure.
G. Posted Certificate of Occupancy: A Certificate of Occupancy displayed in a visible and accessible location
within the building as required by this Chapter.
H. Residential Certificate of Occupancy (CO) means an official document issued by the City certifying that a
building or portion thereof complies with applicable codes, is approved for a specific use and occupancy
classification, and identifies the construction type, the allowed occupant load, whether there is an automatic
fire sprinkler system, the edition of the code the certificate was issued under, the name and address of the
owner, and all other items as required by the Washington State adoption of the International Codes per 19.57
RCW. The Building Official must approve and sign all Residential Certificates of Occupancy. For all multi-family
units with three or more attached dwellings, the City’s Fire Marshal must also approve and sign the Residential
Certificate of Occupancy.
14.15.040 When a Certificate of Occupancy is Required.
A Certificate of Occupancy is required in the following circumstances:
A. New Construction or Major Remodel: A Certificate of Occupancy is issued upon final inspection and approval
of:
1. New buildings or structures; or
2. Existing buildings following permitted construction or remodeling that affects occupancy, life-safety
systems, or code compliance; or
3. Tenant improvements are completed.
B. Change of Use or Occupancy: A new Certificate of Occupancy is required when:
1. The use or occupancy classification differs from the previously approved use; or
2. The intensity of use changes in a manner regulated by code.
14.15.050 When a Business Occupancy Verification is Required.
A. New Business in an Existing Space: A Business Occupancy Verification review is required prior to the operation
of any new business when:
1. The business is occupying a vacant space; or
2. The ownership changes; or
3. New or different business operations are proposed; or
4. Verification of occupancy classification, zoning compliance, or life-safety conditions is required.
14.15.060 Procedures.
A. Applications for a Certificate of Occupancy or Business Occupancy Verification must be submitted on forms
provided by the City.
B. The Community and Economic Development Department (CED) will review building, zoning, permit history,
and business license status.
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C. The City must issue a project permit decision on the proposal.
D. Required inspections must be successfully completed prior to issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy. If the
applicant proposes a Business Occupancy Verification, the City will issue an updated Certificate of Occupancy
reflecting all updated information after successful required inspections.
E. Where applicable, the Fire Department must verify fire and life-safety compliance.
F. A Certificate of Occupancy will be issued, corrected, or denied based on compliance with adopted codes and
this chapter.
G. Correction or reissuance of a Certificate of Occupancy due to clerical error or discrepancy will be processed in
accordance with this Chapter.
14.15.070 Review Authority.
The Building Official and Fire Marshal, or their designees, are authorized to:
A. Review applications for Certificates of Occupancy and Business Occupancy Verifications;
B. Interpret occupancy classifications and use determinations;
C. Require additional documentation or inspections; and
D. Correct or reissue Certificates of Occupancy when errors or discrepancies are identified.
14.15.080 Standards for Issuance.
A Certificate of Occupancy or Business Occupancy Verification will not be issued unless:
A. All required permits have received final approval;
B. The use and occupancy comply with zoning and land use regulations;
C. Required fire and life-safety systems are installed, operational, and approved; and
D. The building complies with applicable building and fire codes.
14.15.090 Relationship to Fire Inspections.
A. Certificates of Occupancy and Business Occupancy Verifications are directly related to Fire and Life Safety
inspections conducted under PAMC 14.30.
B. During fire inspections, the Fire Department may verify:
1. The presence of a posted Certificate of Occupancy; and
2. Consistency between the posted Certificate of Occupancy and the current use.
3. Discrepancies identified during fire inspections are referred to Community and Economic Development
Department for review and corrective action in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws,
PAMC 14.30, and this chapter.
14.15.100 Posting Requirements.
A. A valid Certificate of Occupancy must be posted in a conspicuous and accessible location within the building or
tenant space.
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B. The Certificate must be visible to occupants, customers, and inspectors.
C. Failure to post or maintain a posted Certificate of Occupancy constitutes a violation of this Chapter.
14.15.110 Noncompliance.
A. Occupying or operating a building or tenant space without a required Certificate of Occupancy is prohibited.
B. Failure to obtain, correct, or post a Certificate of Occupancy as required by this chapter constitutes a violation.
14.15.120 Violations.
Each day a violation of this chapter occurs or continues constitutes a separate offense and is subject to
enforcement and penalties under PAMC 2.90.
14.15.130 Appeals.
A person aggrieved by the denial or conditioning of a project permit decision may appeal the decision to the City’s
Hearing Examiner pursuant to Article V of PAMC 18.02. To initiate an appeal, the appellant must file a notice of
appeal with the applicable Director, as defined in PAMC 18.02.020, and pay the appeal fee established in the City’s
Master Fee Schedule (PAMC Appendix A).
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CHAPTER 14.21 FIRE CODE
14.21.010 Purpose. Adoption of International Fire Code, appendices.
The purpose of this chapter is to regulate conditions hazardous to life and property from fire or explosion and to
establish minimum standards for fire prevention, fire protection systems, and fire department access. This chapter
is intended to protect public health, safety, and welfare by promoting safe building conditions, supporting effective
fire suppression and emergency response, and reducing the risk of fire-related injury, loss of life, and property
damage.
This chapter further provides for the administration and enforcement of fire safety requirements, including
inspection, permitting, and operational standards, and is intended to ensure consistency with state-adopted fire
codes and locally adopted amendments.
There is adopted by the City Council for the purpose of prescribing regulations governing conditions hazardous to
life and property from fire or explosion, that certain code known as the International Fire Code, including
Appendices published by the International Code Conference as amended by the Washington State Building Code
Council. In the case of any conflict between the appendices adopted by this section and any other ordinance that
addresses a specific requirement covered by the appendices, the other specific ordinance shall control.
14.21.020 Adoption of International Fire Code – Fire Apparatus Access.
A. The International Fire Code, Section 503 - Fire Apparatus Access Roads and Appendix D - Fire Apparatus Access
Roads, as published by the International Code Council, are adopted and incorporated by reference, subject to
the amendments and modifications in this chapter.
B. Section 503 and Appendix D establish minimum requirements for fire apparatus access roads, including
location, dimensions, design, and operational access necessary to support fire department operations.
C. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of Section 503, Appendix D, and any other City ordinance
addressing the same subject, the more specific provision controls.
D. The Fire Code Official is authorized to approve alternative means of access where site constraints, topography,
or other physical limitations exist, provided that fire department operations are not adversely impacted.
14.21.030 020 Bureau of Fire Prevention Division.
A. The International Fire Code is administered and enforced by the The most recent edition of the International
Fire Code shall be enforced by the Bureau of Fire Prevention Division in the Fire Department of the City,
which is established and shall be operated under the supervision of the Fire Chief of the Fire Department.
B. The Fire Chief, with the approval of the City Manager, may adopt is authorized to make and enforce such
rules and regulations necessary to carry out and enforce this chapter. for the prevention and control of fires
and fire hazards as may be necessary from time to time to carry out the intent of this Code. A minimum of
one certified copy of the number required by governing law of such rules and regulations shall be filed with
the City Clerk and shall be in effect immediately thereafter. An additional copy shall be kept in the office of
the Fire Department for distribution to the public. One copy of the fire code is on file with the City Clerk and
will be available for public review.
C. The Fire Prevention Division Bureau is established within the Fire Department and consists under the
direction of the Fire Chief, which shall consist of such Fire Department personnel as may be assigned thereto
by the Fire Chief. The function of this Division is responsible for administering and enforcing the fire
prevention provisions of all adopted fire codes and this chapter. Bureau shall be to assist the Fire Chief in the
administration and enforcement of fire prevention provisions of this Code. The Chief has designated the
position of a Fire Marshal to exercise the authority powers and perform the duties Fire Prevention Engineer
assigned by local adopted codes, this Code, the International Fire Code, and the Washington State adoption
of the International Fire Code per 19.27 RCW. as set forth in this Code.
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14.21.04025 Fire permit Inspection fees.
Fire permit fees are established in the City’s Master Fee Schedule, PAMC Appendix A. Inspection fees are provided
in the International Fire Code unless otherwise set forth in a resolution authorized by Chapter 1.25 PAMC, see
Appendix A.
14.21.05030 Aboveground storage of flammable liquids.
14.21.06035 Hazardous materials.
14.21.07040 Bulk storage of liquefied petroleum.
B. The liquefied petroleum gas container requirements referred to in the International Fire Code shall include
the requirement that containers be protected from damage that might result from earthquakes, the manner
and extent of which protection must shall be in accordance with the determination of the Fire Chief or their
designee.
14.21.08050 Storage of explosives.
14.21.09061 Outdoor burning regulations.
A. Recreational fires and other outdoor burning, as defined in this section, are allowed.
1. "Recreational fires" means cooking fires, campfires, and bonfires, using charcoal or firewood that occur
in designated areas or on private property, for cooking, pleasure, or ceremonial purposes. Fires used
for debris disposal purposes are not considered recreational fires. Recreational fires must shall comply
with the following:
a. The pile size of a recreational fire must shall not exceed three feet in diameter and two feet in
height and must shall not be located within 25 feet of a structure or combustible materials unless
contained in a barbeque pit.
b. Recreational fires must shall be constantly attended by a person who has approved fire-
extinguishing equipment readily available. Approved fire extinguishing equipment includes
buckets, shovels, garden hoses, or a fire extinguisher with a minimum 4A rating.
C. Cost Recovery: If the Fire Department is called to respond to, control, or extinguish an illegal or out of control
fire that is prohibited by this section, the City may charge, and recover from the person responsible for the
fire, the costs of the Fire Department's response and control action.
D. Burn Bans: Outdoor burning must comply with burn bans and restrictions established by Clallam County, as
determined by the Clallam County Fire Marshal.
14.21.100070 Violations and penalties.
Each day a violation of this chapter occurs or continues constitutes a separate offense and is subject to
enforcement and penalties under PAMC 2.90.
Any person, firm, or corporation, violating any of the provisions of Chapter 14.21 or of the rules and regulations
adopted by the Port Angeles Fire Department as conditions for the issuance of a burning permit shall be deemed
guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which any violation of any of the
provisions of this chapter or of the rules and regulations adopted as conditions for the issuance of a permit is
committed, continued or permitted. Each such violation shall be punishable in the same manner as violations of
the construction codes of the City of Port Angeles as set forth in PAMC 14.01.100.
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14.21.110 Appeals.
A person aggrieved by the denial or conditioning of a project permit decision may appeal the decision to the City’s
Hearing Examiner pursuant to Article V of PAMC 18.02. To initiate an appeal, the appellant must file a notice of
appeal with the applicable Director, as defined in PAMC 18.02.020, and pay the appeal fee established in the City’s
Master Fee Schedule (PAMC Appendix A).
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CHAPTER 14.23 FIRE ALARMS
14.23.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish requirements for fire alarm systems in certain buildings to protect public
health, safety, and welfare. These requirements are intended to enhance life safety by supporting early detection,
occupant notification, and emergency response. This chapter establishes standards that supplement the
International Fire Code, International Building Code, and other nationally recognized standards.
The City Council finds that the required installation of fire alarm systems in certain buildings will promote the
preservation of human health, safety, and general welfare and is otherwise necessary. This chapter provides for
requirements that are in addition to those currently adopted through the International Fire Code, International
Building Code, and nationally recognized standards.
14.23.020 Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter, the following terms, phrases, and words are defined in this section. Terms not
defined in this section have the meanings assigned in the Port Angeles Municipal Code, adopted building codes, or
RCW.
14.23.030 Permits.
A permit is required prior to the installation of commercial fire alarm systems. The fire alarm plan review,
inspection, and testing fees are set forth in a resolution authorized by Chapter 1.25 PAMC, see Appendix A. No fees
apply to non-required systems.
14.23.040 General requirements.
A. All buildings with over 6,250 square feet of floor area must shall be protected by an approved addressable
automatic fire detection system connected to an approved fire alarm receiving center. Area separation walls
cannot be used to reduce the square footage of the building in order to negate the fire alarm system
requirement.
14.23.050 Occupancy specific requirements.
This section is repealed in its entirety.
14.23.070 Notification devices.
With all fire Fire alarm systems must include, alarm notification devices shall be provided and shall be listed for
their intended purpose by a nationally recognized testing laboratory listing agency.
A. Visible alarms. Visible alarm devices must shall be provided in public and common areas.
B. Audible alarms. Audible alarm devices must shall be installed in order to provide a distinctive sound with a
pressure level of 15 dBA above the average ambient sound level in every occupied space within the building.
14.23.080 Fire-extinguishing systems.
When Where a building fire alarm system is installed present, automatic fire extinguishing systems must shall be
connected to the building fire alarm system. Examples of such systems include, but are not be limited to, fire
sprinkler systems, spray booth extinguishing systems, kitchen hood and duct extinguishing systems, and special
hazard agent extinguishing systems.
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14.23.090 Acceptance tests.
Upon completion of the fire alarm system installation, a full acceptance test must shall be conducted in accordance
with NPFA 72 in the presence of the Port Angeles Fire Department. All system functions and individual devices
must shall of the system will be tested to ensure proper operation. , and all devices in the system will be tested. A
certificate of occupancy will not be issued by the City until such time as the fire alarm is has been accepted by the
Fire Department.
14.23.100 Instructions and zone maps.
A. Instructions. Fire alarm system operating instructions must shall be posted in an approved location.
B. Zone maps. When required by the Port Angeles Fire Department, fire alarm system zone maps must shall be
posted at the fire alarm control panel and at all remote annunciator panels.
14.23.120 Inspection, testing, and maintenance.
A. The building owner must ensure shall be responsible for ensuring that all fire and life safety systems are
maintained in an operable condition at all times. Fire alarm service personnel must shall meet the
qualification requirements of the most recently adopted edition of NFPA 72 for inspecting, testing, and
maintaining, inspecting and testing such systems. A Written records of all maintenance, inspections and
testing must shall be maintained and shall be made available to the Fire Department upon request.
B. The building owner must provide shall be responsible for providing updates to the Fire Department
concerning regarding the fire alarm system, system monitoring service, and designated emergency contact
information.
14.23.130 Lock Knox boxes.
All Buildings equipped with fire alarm systems must shall have an approved locking keybox knox box installed in an
approved location on the exterior of the building. The locking keybox knox box must shall contain keys necessary
to access all secured areas of the building. to enable rapid access to the building.
14.23.140 Signage.
A. All new fire alarm control panels must shall be outfitted with a permanent sign, on or adjacent to the front
panel door, as follows:
1. No person may reset a fire alarm system until the cause of the alarm has been determined by the Port
Angeles Fire Department. An alarm may be silenced, but not reset, only if it has been determined to be a
false alarm and no hazard to occupants exists.
False fire alarms resulting from a technician's failure to
notify the Fire Department prior to system service shall
2. The sign must shall measure at least four inches wide by two inches high and shall have letters that are
of contrasting color from the background.
B. All new fire alarm control panels shall be outfitted with a permanent sign, on or adjacent to the front panel
door, as follows:
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of the alarm. Alarms may be silenced, but not reset,
only if the alarm is a false alarm and there is no danger
The sign shall measure at least four inches wide by three inches high and shall have letters that are of contrasting
color from the background.
14.23.150 Existing buildings.
Existing buildings are shall not required to comply with be made to conform to the provisions of this chapter;
However, provided that if the Fire Department may require compliance when:
1. determines that Structural deficiencies affecting life safety are identified involved and that the
continued use of the building or structure without a fire alarm system would be hazardous to the safety
of the occupants;, or,
2. if an existing The building undergoes a change in use or occupancy. that results in a condition
determined to be potentially hazardous to the safety of the occupants, the Fire Department may require
compliance with the terms of this chapter.
14.23.160 Repeated failure of equipment.
The Fire Department may order discontinuance of a fire alarm system at any time due to repeated equipment or
circuitry failures, multiple false alarms, or failure to comply with this chapter. , due to repeated failure of
equipment or circuitry, multiple fire alarms or failure to comply with all of the provisions of this chapter, may at
any time order the discontinuance of any fire alarm system within the City. Such Notice of discontinuance must
shall be provided made in writing to the alarm service provider and affected persons, firms, or corporations both
the agency supplying the alarm and to the persons, firms and/ or corporations affected, at least 48 hours before
prior to the discontinuance discontinuation of the fire alarm system circuit. In the event of temporary equipment
failure of fire alarm equipment or circuitry, equipment malfunction, or multiple false alarms, the Fire Department
may, after notifying notification of the building occupants, of the structure, may order suspension of all emergency
response to alarm signals actions discontinued, or require fire watch, until repairs are completed by qualified can
be made by alarm service agency personnel. Written notice of such action must be provided to affected persons,
firms, or corporations as soon as practicable. Such notice shall be made in writing to the persons, firms, and/or
corporations affected as soon as possible.
14.23.170 Violations.
Each day a violation of this chapter occurs or continues constitutes a separate offense and is subject to
enforcement and penalties under PAMC 2.90.
Any willful violation of the terms of this chapter by any person or agency shall be deemed a misdemeanor and shall
be punishable by a fine of up to $500.00 per day for each day that the violation continues.
14.23.180 Appeals.
A person aggrieved by the denial or conditioning of a project permit decision may appeal the decision to the City’s
Hearing Examiner pursuant to Article V of PAMC 18.02. To initiate an appeal, the appellant must file a notice of
appeal with the applicable Director, as defined in PAMC 18.02.020, and pay the appeal fee established in the City’s
Master Fee Schedule (PAMC Appendix A).
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CHAPTER 14.26 AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
14.26.010 Policy and Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish requirements for automatic fire sprinkler systems to protect public
health, safety, and welfare by reducing the risk of fire-related injury, loss of life, and property damage. Automatic
fire sprinkler systems are a practical and effective means of fire protection that supports early fire control and
improves overall life safety.
This chapter further recognizes that the use of sprinkler systems supports efficient fire department operations and
resource planning by helping to maintain manageable fire conditions and balancing fire protection responsibilities
between the public and private sectors. The installation of sprinkler systems may also provide economic benefits,
including reduced demand on public infrastructure and the potential for lower insurance costs.
The City Council finds that automatic fire sprinkler systems are now technologically and economically viable and
can help to reduce the loss of life and property due to fire and are therefore reasonably necessary in order to
protect the public health, safety and welfare. Further, automatic fire sprinkler systems can help to ensure that any
fires that occur in new residential structures are reasonably within the firefighting capabilities of the Port Angeles
Fire Department with its present manpower and equipment and will provide a rational basis for planning public
fire protection expenditures by defining the balance between traditional fire protection resources to be supplied
by the public and the private sectors while at the same time reducing the costs of traditional fire protection and its
related expenditures such as large water mains, fire apparatus turn-arounds, and fire hydrants in newly developing
areas. Finally, the installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems should help to cause a significant reduction in
homeowner insurance premiums.
14.26.020 Sprinkler systems required.
Automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be installed and maintained in all multi-family residential construction;
provided that this requirement shall become effective January 1, 1987, prior to which date installation of
automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be allowed but not required.
Automatic fire sprinkler systems must be provided as required by the International Fire Code (IFC), International
Building Code (IBC), PAMC 18.08.110, Title 14 PAMC, and this chapter. Such systems must be installed and
maintained in accordance with applicable adopted codes and standards.
14.26.030 "Automatic fire sprinkler system" defined.
This section is repealed in its entirety.
New 14.26.030 Residential fire sprinkler systems—One- and two-family dwellings.
A. Automatic fire sprinkler systems must be installed in all new one-family dwellings and duplexes as required
by PAMC 18.08.110.
B. Residential fire sprinkler systems required by this section must be designed and installed in accordance with
the International Fire Code, the International Residential Code as adopted by the City, and NFPA 13D, except
as modified by PAMC 18.08.110.
C. The design, installation, plan review, testing, inspection, and approval of residential fire sprinkler systems
must be reviewed and approved by the Fire Chief or their designee.
D. A one-family dwelling or duplex subject to this section must not be occupied until the required residential
fire sprinkler system has been installed, tested, and approved in accordance with this chapter, PAMC
18.08.100, and applicable adopted codes.
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14.26.040 Approval by Fire Chief.
A. Automatic fire sprinkler systems required or permitted by this chapter must not be installed without prior
approval of installation, testing, and maintenance plans by the Fire Chief or their designee.
B. The Fire Chief or their designee may approve omission of sprinklers in rooms or areas of noncombustible
construction with noncombustible contents.
C. Residential construction subject to this section must not be occupied until testing of the automatic fire
sprinkler system has been approved by the Fire Chief or their designee.
No automatic fire sprinkler system required or allowed by this chapter shall be installed without prior approval by
the Fire Chief or his designee of the plans for installation, testing and maintenance of the system. Subject to the
approval of the Fire Chief or his designee, sprinklers may be omitted in rooms or areas which are of non-
combustible construction with non-combustible contents. No residential construction for which an automatic fire
sprinkler system is required or allowed by this chapter shall be occupied until testing of the automatic fire sprinkler
system has been approved by the Fire Chief or his designee.
14.26.050 Appeals.
A person aggrieved by the denial or conditioning of a project permit decision may appeal the decision to the City’s
Hearing Examiner pursuant to Article V of PAMC 18.02. To initiate an appeal, the appellant must file a notice of
appeal with the applicable Director, as defined in PAMC 18.02.020, and pay the appeal fee established in the City’s
Master Fee Schedule (PAMC Appendix A).
Appeals under this chapter may be heard by the Fire Chief, Building Official, and member of the building industry
appointed by the City Council upon filing of a written notice of appeal and paying the fee set forth in a resolution
authorized by Chapter 1.25 PAMC, see Appendix A. Decisions of this body are final and non-appealable.
14.26.060 Building codes not affected.
This chapter does not prohibit the use of fire-resistive substitution as permitted by the International Building Code
and does not supersede the State Building Codes adopted by the City of Port Angeles under Chapter 19.27 RCW.
The application of this chapter shall not prohibit the exercise of the substitution option granted in the International
Building Code relating to "Fire Resistive Substitution" and shall not affect or supersede the provisions of the State
Building Codes as adopted by the City of Port Angeles pursuant to Chapter 19.27 RCW.
14.26.070 Violations.
Each day a violation of this chapter occurs or continues constitutes a separate offense and is subject to
enforcement and penalties under PAMC 2.90.
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CHAPTER 14.30 FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY ANNUAL INSPECTIONS PROGRAM
14.30.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish mandatory requirements and procedures for the Fire and Life Safety
Annual Inspection Program to ensure compliance with all adopted fire codes in effect. Annual inspections of
buildings and structures within the City of Port Angeles are intended to promote uniform application of fire and life
safety standards and to protect life, property, and public safety from fire and related hazards. This program
supports fire prevention efforts by identifying hazardous conditions, ensuring proper maintenance of fire
protection systems, and verifying safe means of egress.
14.30.020 Applicability.
A. The City of Port Angeles Fire Department requires annual fire and life safety inspections for the following
occupancies within the city limits:
1. All businesses and commercial occupancies, unless expressly exempted by this title;
2. All vacant commercial and industrial buildings;
3. Multifamily residential occupancies consisting of three or more dwelling units (including common areas);
and
4. Any other building, structure, or occupancy deemed necessary by the Fire Chief or their designee to
ensure compliance with adopted fire and life safety codes.
B. Compliance with this chapter is mandatory for the issuance or renewal of business licenses, occupancy
permits, or continued occupancy as required by the Port Angeles Municipal Code.
14.30.030 Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter, the following terms, phrases, and words are defined in this section. Terms not
defined in this section have the meanings assigned in the Port Angeles Municipal Code, adopted building codes, or
RCW.
A. Annual Fire and Life Safety Inspection means a systematic evaluation conducted by the Fire Department to
verify compliance with adopted fire and life safety codes.
B. Fire Chief means the Fire Chief of the City of Port Angeles or their designee.
C. Multifamily Residential Occupancy means a residential building containing three or more dwelling units,
including but not limited to apartments and condominiums, and includes all common areas.
D. Noncompliance means failure to meet the requirements of adopted fire codes, this chapter, or correction
timelines established by the Fire Department.
14.30.040 Inspection Procedures.
A. Annual fire and life safety inspections must be conducted by the Port Angeles Fire Department or an
authorized representative.
B. Inspections may include, but are not limited to, evaluation of:
1. Fire alarm and fire sprinkler systems;
2. Fire extinguishers;
3. Means of egress and exit signage;
4. Emergency lighting;
5. Electrical systems and equipment;
6. Storage and handling of hazardous materials;
7. Housekeeping and fire load conditions; and
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8. General compliance with the International Fire Code (IFC) as adopted by the City.
C. Inspections will be scheduled at the discretion of the Fire Department, with up to 30 days' notice provided to
the owner, operator, or responsible party.
D. Following the inspection, the Fire Department will issue a written report identifying compliance status and any
deficiencies requiring correction.
14.30.050 Standards and Codes Adopted.
All inspections conducted under this chapter must be based on the requirements of the International Fire Code, as
adopted and amended by the City of Port Angeles, and any other applicable local, state, or federal fire and life
safety regulations.
14.30.060 Certificate of Occupancy and Business License Posting.
A. A valid Certificate of Occupancy must be maintained for all applicable occupancies and be posted in a
conspicuous and accessible location approved by the Fire Department.
B. A valid Business License must be maintained for all businesses and must be displayed per PAMC 5.04.050(D).
C. Failure to post or maintain a valid Certificate of Occupancy or Business License constitutes a violation of this
chapter and may result in enforcement action.
14.30.070 Noncompliance and Corrective Actions.
A. When violations are identified, the Fire Department must establish a reasonable timeframe for correction
based on the nature and severity of the hazard.
B. Reinspections are required within 20 days to verify compliance, unless otherwise specified. Extensions may be
granted at the request of the business owner if approved by the Fire Marshal.
C. Failure to correct violations within the specified timeframe constitutes noncompliance and may result in
enforcement actions, including but not limited to:
1. Notices of violation;
2. Civil penalties or fines;
3. Suspension or revocation of business licenses or occupancy permits; and
4. Orders to vacate or close the premises where an imminent life safety hazard exists.
14.30.080 Appeals.
A person aggrieved by the denial or conditioning of an inspection decision may appeal the decision to the City’s
Hearing Examiner pursuant to PAMC 2.18. To initiate an appeal, the appellant must file a notice of appeal with the
Fire Chief and pay the appeal fee established in the City’s Master Fee Schedule (PAMC Appendix A).
14.30.090 Violations.
This chapter is enforced by the Port Angeles Fire Department. The Fire Chief or their designee is authorized to
issue orders, notices, and citations necessary to ensure compliance with this chapter and the adopted fire codes.
Each day a violation of this chapter occurs or continues constitutes a separate offense and is subject to
enforcement and penalties under PAMC 2.90.
14.30.100 Role of Annual Fire and Life Safety Inspections.
The Fire and Life Safety Annual Inspection Program established by this chapter is a proactive fire prevention
measure intended to reduce fire risk, improve emergency response conditions, and ensure ongoing compliance
with fire code requirements. Annual inspections do not replace inspections required for construction, permits, or
change of occupancy, but function as a continuing compliance mechanism.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 37
Exhibit 2: MCA 26-0044 Code Amendment Line In/Line Out Edits
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 26 of 30
CHAPTER 14.32 BUILDING MOVING (MOVED TO CHAPTER 11.10)
Chapter 14.32 is hereby deleted in its entirety and moved to a new chapter 11.10 for replacement.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 38
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 27 of 30
CHAPTER 14.40 OFF-STREET PARKING
14.40.030 Parking space requirements—Generally.
PARKING REQUIREMENT TABLE "14.40-1"
LAND USE PARKING SPACE REQUIREMENT
Cooperative and Shared Parking Provisions
19.27 RCW. See PAMC 14.40.046 for electric vehicle parking space
14.40.046 Electric vehicle parking space requirements.
This section is repealed in its entirety.
A. This section applies to all off-street parking facilities in residential and commercial zones, except for RTP.
Refer to locally adopted building and electrical codes for detailed construction requirements.
B. All charging equipment and services required by this section shall support a minimum of Level 2 charging
standards as provided by the Society of Automotive Engineers (40 amps and 240 volts residential or 208 volts
commercial).
C. EV parking spaces shall be provided at the minimum rates shown in Electric Vehicle Parking Requirement
Table "14.40-2". Note that these minimums may exceed those required by WAC 51-50-0427.
1. An EV parking space is one that has electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) of any level of
sophistication installed at the time of certificate of occupancy. Networked EVSE has an internet
connection and may have a customer interface for payment, limited hours of operation, and other
functions.
2. An EV-capable parking space is one that can support EVSE in the future and is supported with electrical
panel capacity and space to support minimum charging standards, a dedicated branch circuit for the
parking space, internet-connection capacity and space (if required), and the installation of raceways
(underground of surface-mounted). The EV-capable space requirement applies to new development
only. Prior to EVSE installation, non-electric vehicles may park in EV-capable spaces.
3. Percentage-based rates apply to the total number of vehicle parking spaces actually planned or built
(not the minimum number of spaces required elsewhere in this chapter). The rates also apply to new
parking spaces that are created when an existing parking area (as of the adoption date of this section)
is expanded by 50 percent or more.
4. Mixed use developments shall meet the applicable residential and non-residential EV parking space
requirements consistent with the proportion of each use.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE PARKING REQUIREMENT TABLE "14.40-2"
Use Minimum Number of
EV Parking Spaces
Minimum Number of
EV-Capable Parking
Single-household,
cottage, and form of 240-volt power
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 39
Exhibit 2: MCA 26-0044 Code Amendment Line In/Line Out Edits
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 28 of 30
outlets. Networked
EVSE is not required.
Duplex None 1 per two units
Multi-family with 10 or
more dwelling units form of 240-volt power
outlets. Networked
with 3,000 gross
square feet floor area
or more (including
2 spaces minimum encouraged but not
required.
5. Signs for EV parking spaces shall be consistent with RCW 46.08.185. EVSE shall not include any
electronic changeable copy sign (see other sign standards in Chapter 14.36 PAMC).
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 40
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 29 of 30
CHAPTER 18.08 URBAN SERVICES
18.08.110 Fire suppression requirements.
A. This section applies to all newly constructed single-family residences and duplexes located outside shall
either be located within a four-minute response time from a City of Port Angeles Fire Station, as determined
by the Fire Chief or their designee using GIS-based response modeling. or shall meet the following fire
suppression requirements:
1. Each single-family residence and duplex outside the four-minute response time, except for residences
within new subdivisions as provided for in subsection A.2., shall have either of the following:
a. A residential sprinkler system that is installed and maintained in accordance with International
Fire Code (IFC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.; or
b. An outside alarm bell that is electronically connected to the residential smoke alarm system in
accordance with the requirements of the Fire Chief or designee.
2. Each sSingle-family residence and duplexes within a new subdivision outside the four-minute response
time and served by water system meeting City standards must comply with one of the following: shall
be equipped with a residential sprinkler system that is installed and maintained in accordance with
International Fire Code (IFC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, provided that
such subdivisions shall be allowed to have the following reduced standards for cul-de-sac size and fire
hydrant spacing:
a. The required Cul-de-sac diameter measured from curb to curb may be reduced from the normal
100 feet standard to either 90 feet or, if the cul-de-sac is restricted and posted for no parking, to
80 feet where the cul-de-sac is posted and maintained as no parking; and
b. Distance between fFire hydrants spacing may be increased from the normal standard of 500 feet
average spacing to a maximum of between hydrants to not more than 1,000 feet, as measured
along an approved fire access apparatus route.
3. Each new sSingle-family residence and duplexes within a new subdivision outside the four-minute
response time and served by a water system meeting City standards must comply with one of the
following: shall be equipped with a residential sprinkler system that is installed and maintained in
accordance with International Fire Code (IFC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
standards, provided that such subdivisions shall be allowed to have the following reduced standards
for cul-de-sac size and fire hydrant spacing.
a. A fire hydrant must be located within 1,000 feet of all portions of the exterior walls of the
structure, as measured along an approved fire apparatus access route the furthest point of the
structure, as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the building; or
b. All of the following: An approved residential sprinkler system, adequate clearance to expose
structures, and compliance with the defensible space requirements prescribed in the current IFCI
Urban-Wildland Interface Code.
i. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system installed and maintained in
accordance with NFPA 13D;
ii. Adequate clearance between structures; and
iii. Compliance with defensible space requirements of the International Wildland-
Urban Interface Code, as adopted.
4. The required fire flow for new single-family dwellings and duplexes requirement shall is as follows:
either of the following:
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 41
Exhibit 2: MCA 26-0044 Code Amendment Line In/Line Out Edits
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 30 of 30
a. 500 gallons per minute for new single-family dwellings less than 3,600 square feet.; or
b. 1,000 gallons per minute for new single-family dwellings larger than 3,600 square feet or greater.
Exception: Fire flow may be reduced where an approved automatic fire sprinkler system is installed.
B. All multi-family residential buildings must be equipped with developments shall have automatic sprinkler
systems in accordance with section 903 of the International Fire Code and as set forth in Chapter 14.26
PAMC.
C. The requirements of this section apply to: requirements of this section shall apply only to newly constructed
residential buildings and reconstruction of residential buildings to an extent that exceeds 75 percent of the
existing assessed value of the building.
a. Newly constructed residential buildings; and
b. Existing residential buildings undergoing additions, alterations, or repairs where the cumulative valuation
exceeds 75 percent of the assessed value of the structure, as determined by the applicable Director.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 42
Page 1 of 2
Exhibit 3
Only those items noted as follows are being adjusted: deleted, new or changed.
All other items remain as is.
Type 0 Over -the -Counter Expansion
18.02.050 Project permit application framework.
Table 18.02.050-2 Permit Types —Decisions
5
occupancy classification or use of a structure shall
not be eligible for over-the-counter processing and
shall instead be subject to Type I review. Only new
ownership changes are eligible for the over-the-
counter process. All other Business Occupancy
Verifications shall be processed as a Type I
approval.
5 Vendors engaged in food sales, food processing,
cooking, or other activities requiring additional
regulatory review shall not be eligible for over-the-
counter processing and shall instead be subject to
Type I review. Where other regulatory requirements
apply, those requirements shall supersede
eligibility for over-the-counter processing.
6 Except for repair or maintenance activities in or
over water, the applicable Director may determine
that a proposal requires a different level of review or
processing based on the nature and scope of the
work. Where other regulatory requirements apply,
those requirements shall supersede eligibility for
over-the-counter processing.
7 Except for repair or maintenance activities in or
over water, the applicable Director may determine
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 43
Exhibit 3: MCA 26-0067 Code Amendment Line In/Line Out Edits
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 2 of 2
processing based on the nature and scope of the
work. Where other regulatory requirements apply,
those requirements shall supersede eligibility for
over-the-counter processing.
8 Except where the applicable Director may
determine that a proposal requires a different level
of review or processing based on the nature and
scope of work. Where other regulatory
requirements apply, those requirements shall
supersede eligibility for over-the-counter
18.02.185 Revisions After Final decision.
A. Any revision submitted after issuance of a final project permit decision shall be subject to a new review
period. The review timeline shall restart, and the full time limits applicable to the permit type under
PAMC 18.02.170 shall apply.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 44
Wednesday, April 22, 2026, MCA 26-0044 & MCA 26-0067 | Page 1 of 2
EXHIBIT 4: MCA 26-0044 AND 26-0067 PUBLIC COMMENT MEMO
DATE: Friday, April 17, 2026
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Planning Division
RE: MCA Phase 1 26-0044 & 26-0067 Public Comment
INTRODUCTION
This memo and its attachment serve as the official response to public comment from City staff and includes
all noticing procedures, documentation, individual comments as responses.
PUBLIC NOTICING PROCEDURES
Public notice for Land Use Applications MCA 26-0044 and 26-0067 was opened on Wednesday, April 1, 2026,
closed on April 14, 2026, and was provided in the following manner:
• In the Peninsula Daily News: April 1, 2026.
• Onsite: No on-site signage was posted due to the amendment serving as a citywide action.
• Mailed: Mail notices were not distributed due to the amendment serving as a citywide action.
• At the City Hall Noticing Board: April 1, 2026
• On the City’s Website: April 1, 2026
PUBLIC COMMENT
No written public comment was received during the comment period. During public and partner outreach,
questions and comments generally focused on how the proposed amendments would apply in practice,
including change of occupancy, new occupants in existing spaces, inspection triggers, vacant buildings,
hazardous occupancies, subtenants, and reuse of existing commercial spaces. Comments also raised
questions about public education, adoption timing, and what property owners, tenants, and business
purchasers should verify early, including occupancy classification and Certificate of Occupancy status.
STAFF RESPONSE
The questions raised during public and partner outreach were helpful in identifying where additional
clarification is needed. In general, the comments reflect practical concerns about when review is required,
what may trigger additional compliance, and how the updates will apply in common real-world situations.
The intent of the Phase 1 amendments is to provide clearer local procedures and more consistent
administration of existing fire, life safety, and Certificate of Occupancy -related requirements. Questions
regarding vacant buildings, subtenants, hazardous occupancies, changes after occupancy, and similar
situations depend on the specific facts of a site or use, but the amendments are intended to provide a clearer
framework for determining when review is required.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 45
Exhibit 4: MCA 26-0067 Code Amendment Public Comment Memo
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 2 of 2
Comments also highlighted the importance of public education and early due diligence. Staff recognizes the
value of clear public-facing information so property owners, tenants, contractors, and business purchasers
can better understand when requirements may apply and what should be verified early in the process.
Conditions placed on the permit in response to public comment
• N/A
Attachment A: Public Noticing Documentation
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 46
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public Hearing Process for a Municipal Code Amendment Application (MCA 26-0044 & 26-0067)
Application Type: Municipal Code Amendment Zone: Citywide
Applicant: City of Port Angeles Submitted: March 27, 2026
Location: Citywide Determined Complete: March 27, 2026
Description: A municipal code amendment to Titles 11, 14, and 18
to improve organization, clarity, and administration of fire, life
safety, inspection, and occupancy-related provisions and the
creation of additional Type 0 permit applications.
Comment Period Close: Written
comment must be received by April 14,
2026.
WHAT: The City of Port Angeles received a development application. Application information may be found on the
City’s website: https://www.cityofpa.us/145/Current-Projects-and-Plans
HOW TO COMMENT: Interested parties are encouraged to comment on the proposal and may request a
copy of the decision once it’s been made and any appeal rights. Written comments must be submitted prior
to the close of the public hearing, care of the Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED)
ced@cityofpa.us or 321 E 5th Street, Port Angeles WA 98362 c/o DCED.
DATE/TIME OF HYBRID PUBLIC HEARING: Wednesday, April 22, 2026 @ 6:00 PST
LOCATION OF HEARING: This meeting will be held virtually and in the City Council Chambers, 321 E 5th
Street, Port Angeles WA 98362.
HEARING PARTICIPATION: This hearing will be held in a hybrid meeting. The Audio Only and Live Hearing
function and access to City Council Chambers will be available 30 minutes prior to the meeting. If you are
unable to attend the hearing, or unable to deliver audio public testim ony during the public hearing as
described above, you may submit written public comment. All written public testimony must be postmarked
prior to April 14, 2026.
LEARN ABOUT THIS LIVE MEETING: www.cityofpa.us/Live-Virtual-Meetings
Toll Free Phone Number for Audio Only*: 1-844-992-4726 Access Code: 255 9205 1516
(*Audio Only Testimony for those without internet access: Instructions will be given during meeting)
DECISION AND APPEAL INFORMATION: The City Council decision will be made based on the Staff Report,
record, and written public comment. Any appeal of this decision shall be filed with the Superior Court within 21 days
after the date of decision.
..............................................................................................................................
-Notice of SEPA Checklist Submittal (SEPA 26-0075) -
WHAT: The City of Port Angeles received a SEPA Checklist associated with the above application proposal.
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT: A Determination of Non-Significance (SEPA 26-0075) has been made per
WAC 197-11-340(2). This comment period will be the only time to comment on the environmental impacts of the
proposed project.
Interested parties are encouraged to comment on the proposal and may request a copy of the decision once it’s
been made. Any interested parties may submit written comment during the 14-day public comment period care of
the Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) via email ced@cityofpa.us, or addressed to 321
E 5th St., Port Angeles, WA 98362 no later than the comment period closing date of April 14, 2026.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: The Department of Community and Economic
Development (DCED) at (360) 417-4750 or ced@cityofpa.us.
PUBLISH ON: April 1, 2026
Attachment 1 MCA 26-0044 26-0067 Public Notice Materials
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 1 of 4
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 47
Client Phone (360) 417-4613
Address E-Mail Atorres@cityofpa.us
98362 Fax
Order#1028779 Requested By Order Price $124.82
Classification PO #MCA 26-0044 & 26-006 $0.00
Start Date 04/01/2026 Created By 1209 $0.00
End Date 04/01/2026 Creation Date 03/30/2026, 10:57:50 am Total Net $124.82
Run Dates 1 Payment $0.00
Publication(s)
Sales Rep 1209 - Clenard, Linda Phone (360) 683-3311
E-Mail linda.clenard@soundpublishing.com
Fax
Proofed by Clenard, Linda, 03/30/2026 11:08:04 am
Classified Proof
Attachment 1 MCA 26-0044 26-0067 Public Notice Materials
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 2 of 4April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 48
Proofed by Clenard, Linda, 03/30/2026 11:08:04 am
Classified Proof
Attachment 1 MCA 26-0044 26-0067 Public Notice Materials
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 3 of 4April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 49
Proofed by Clenard, Linda, 03/30/2026 11:08:04 am
Classified Proof
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Page 4 of 4
Attachment 1 MCA 26-0044 26-0067 Public Notice Materials
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 50
Total Engagements YTD:% Change vs Last Year:Avg Daily Engagements YTD:% Timely Responses:
Counter Visits = In-person front desk visits.
Emails Sent = Messages sent through the permits inbox to applicants.
Phone Calls = Customer phone calls logged.
Timely Responses = Customer inquiries that receive a response within two business days of the initial contact.
The CED Technicians have managed over 1,500 interactions so far this year, with nearly 98% of inquiries responded to within 2 business days.
CED Customer Service Report - March 2026
-5.6%1,565 17.3 97.3%
30%
53%
17%
Customer Engagement
Counter Visits Emails Sent Phone Calls
339
795
431
COUNTER VISITS EMAILS SENT PHONE CALLS
Engagement Type –YTD
2026 YTD
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
2025 464 553 640 644 730 594 617 571 690 750 526 668
2026 473 542 550
400
500
600
700
800
To
t
a
l
I
n
t
e
r
a
c
t
i
o
n
s
Monthly Engagment Trend
0 100 200 300 400 500 600
Jan
Feb
Mar
Timely Response Rate -YTD
Total Interactions Timely Responses
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 51
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 52
*If we ask for more information about a project and the applicant takes longer than 60 days to respond, the City may add up to 30 extra days to the overall review time for the application, as allowed under Port Angeles Municipal Code (PAMC) 18.02.170(G) and (H).
CED SB 5290 Report - March 2026
TYPE I - Allowed, Permitted, or Accessory Uses Not Requiring Notice of Application; Building Permits Categorically Exempt from SEPA; Business Licenses; Clearing and Grading Permits; Critical Area Exemptions; Director's Determinations¹; Electrical Permits; Environmentally
Sensitive Area Permits and Extensions; Fee Waivers; Final Binding Site Plans; Final Boundary Line Adjustments; Final Overlay Zones; Final Planned Residential Development (PRD); Final Plats; Final Short Plats; Final Unit Lot Subdivisions; Fire Alarm Permits; Fire Permits – Any
Other Approval Provided by the Fire Department – Office of the Fire Marshal; Fire Sprinkler Permits; Flood Development Permits; Home Businesses/Home Occupation Permit; Land-Use Verification; Minor Amendments to an Approved Plat, Binding Site Plan, or Planned
Residential Development; Minor Deviations Up to 20%; Minor Mobile or Itinerant Vendor Hosting Site Plan Review; NICE Grants; Preliminary Boundary Line Adjustments; Preliminary Short Plats; Regulatory Mobile or Itinerant Vendor Permit; Reasonable Use Exceptions; Right-
of-Way Construction Permits; Sales and Use Tax Grants; Shoreline Exemptions; Sign Permits; Short-Term Lodging Licenses; Site Plan Review; Temporary Uses Up to One Year; Utility Feasibility Requests; Wetland Permit Extension; Wetland Temporary Emergency Permit.
TYPE II - Administrative Conditional Use Permits; Administrative Conditional Use Permits Required for Transitional Housing Facilities 1–4 Units; Building Permits Requiring SEPA; Cottage Industries; Discretionary Conditional Use Permits; Major Mobile or Itinerant Vendor
Hosting Site Plan Review; Minor Plat Amendment; Minor Variances; Preliminary Binding Site Plan; Preliminary Unit Lot Subdivision; SEPA Review (Not Associated with a Public Hearing); Shoreline Substantial Development Permits²; Temporary Housing Facilities; Wetland
Permits.
TYPE III - Conditional Use Permits; Conditional Use Permits Required for Transitional Housing Facilities 5+ Units; Major Amendments to an Approved Plat or Planned Residential Development; Major Variances; Minor Deviations 21–30%; Plat Vacation; Preliminary Overlay
Zones; Preliminary Plats; Preliminary Planned Residential Development (PRD); SEPA Review (Associated with a Public Hearing); Shoreline Conditional Uses; Shoreline Substantial Development Permits³; Shoreline Variances; Temporary Uses – One to Five Years; Unclassified Use
–
TYPE IV - Site S ecific Rezones.
TYPE V - Amendments to Development Regulations; Amendments to the Port Angeles Municipal Code; Annexations; Area-Wide Rezones; Comprehensive Plan Amendments; Development Agreements; Master Land Use, Subarea, Functional, and/or Utility Plans and
Amendments; Shoreline Master Program Adoption and Amendments.
NOTES: 1. See PAMC 18.02.240 for applicable procedures. 2. Only if the application is for a permitted use and receives a threshold determination of non-significance. 3. Except for Type II shoreline substantial development permits.
6
22
8
1 1
0
5
10
15
20
25
<14 Days 15-30 Days 31-65 Days 66-100 Days 101-170 Days
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
P
e
r
m
i
t
s
I
s
s
u
e
d
Total Number of Days for Permit Review
Permit Type I (65 Day Deadline*)
0 0
2
0 0
0
1
2
3
4
5
<14 Days 15-30 Days 31-65 Days 66-100 Days 101-170 Days
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
P
e
r
m
i
t
s
I
s
s
u
e
d
(
Y
T
D
)
Total Number of Days for Permit Review
Permit Type II (100 Day Deadline*)
0 0 0 0 0
0
1
2
3
4
5
<14 Days 15-30 Days 31-65 Days 66-100 Days 101-170 Days
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
P
e
r
m
i
t
s
I
s
s
u
e
d
(
Y
T
D
)
Total Number of Days for Permit Review
Permit Type III (170 Day Deadline*)
0 0 0 0 0
0
1
2
3
4
5
<14 Days 15-30 Days 31-65 Days 66-100 Days 101-170 Days
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
P
e
r
m
i
t
s
I
s
s
u
e
d
(
Y
T
D
)
Total Number of Days for Permit Review
Permit Type IV (170 Day Deadline*)
0 0 0 0 0
0
1
2
3
4
5
<14 Days 15-30 Days 31-65 Days 66-100 Days 101-170 Days
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
P
e
r
m
i
t
s
I
s
s
u
e
d
(
Y
T
D
)
Total Number of Days for Permit Review
Permit Type V (No Deadline*)
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 53
CED Affordable Housing Report - March 2026
Type JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 2026 YTD 2025 YTD
SUT - HB 1406 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
SUT - HB 1590 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $50,000.00
FWP $97,226.99 $1,065.00 $31,983.63 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $130,275.62 $57,111.48
NICE- Small Scale $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
NICE - Medium Scale $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
NICE - Large Scale $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
TOTAL CITY
INVESTMENTS $97,226.99 $1,065.00 $31,983.63 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $130,275.62 $107,111.48
PRP 4 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 4
MFTE 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0
Key
SUT- HB 1406
SUT- HB 1590
FWP
NICE - Small Scale
NICE - Medium Scale
NICE - Large Scale
PRP
MFTE
Multi Family Tax Exemption. Contracts are shown in the month they were executed between developer and City, minimum number of estimated new dwelling units listed. Final dwelling unit counts will be determined at permitting/approval phase, and will be detailed on
Please Note: City staff invest considerable time to proactively engage with prospective housing developers in order to amplify these critical City programs. This report only includes one stage of this important process.
New Improvements for Community Enhancement of Neighborhoods Projects (≤ $14,999). Grants are shown in the month that the contract was fully executed between the developer and the City.
New Improvements for Community Enhancement of Neighborhoods Projects ($15,000-$24,999). Grants are shown in the month that the contract was fully executed between the developer and the City.
New Improvements for Community Enhancement of Neighborhoods Projects (≥ $25,000). Grants are shown in the month that the contract was fully executed between the developer and the City.
Permit Ready Plans. Plans are shown in the month they were shared with prospective developer, minimum number of estimated new dwelling units listed. Final dwelling unit counts will be determined at permitting/approval phase, and will be detailed on the monthly
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 54
CED Building Report - March 2026
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 2025 YTD
0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
$0.00 $0.00 $3,000.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $700,000.00
2 2 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12
$8,007.00 $11,713.00 $116,130.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $524,888.00
Certificate of Occupancy 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 N/A
1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
$7,000,000.00 $0.00 $1,019,685.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
$0.00 $0.00 $4,500,000.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $2,632,599.00
Certificate of Occupancy 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 N/A
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
$0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
$0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Certificate of Occupancy 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 N/A
4 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
$2,120,000.00 $0.00 $327,936.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $800,000.00
2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
$407,313.00 $130,000.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $532,351.00
1 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3
$224,352.00 $0.00 $515,807.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $838,694.00
1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3
$170,517.00 $0.00 $86,690.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $282,659.00
19 32 18 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 80
$251,345.00 $322,685.00 $201,849.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $1,393,170.00
Certificate of Occupancy 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 N/A
Comm 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
Res $0.00 $0.00 $15,200.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $16,500.00
30 36 37 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 106
$10,181,534.00 $464,398.00 $6,786,297.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $7,720,864.00
$106,793.40 $20,095.63 $100,441.68 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $159,138.51
3 2 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7
0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1
8 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 10 4
1 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 7 3
2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 6 2
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
11 2 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 22 23 10
9
Demolition and Moving
Repair and Alteration 69
$775,879.00
$227,330.71
$17,432,229.00
2
$15,200.00
103
3
$257,207.00
2
$0.00
0
0
$0.00
6
$2,447,936.00
4
$537,313.00
5
$740,159.00
2
$8,019,685.00
0
0
$4,500,000.00
1
2026 YTD
1
$3,000.00
1
10
$135,850.00
italics are at various stages of staff review. Additionally, not all applicants have submitted a complete application at this time. While we expect the majority to advance through the review process, it is possible that some may experience the need for
additional review.
Total Dwelling Units
New Single Family
New Accessory Structure
Res
Dwelling Units - Duplex
New Construction
New Multi Family
New Manufactured Home
Business Certificate of Occupancy
Permit Fees Paid
Total Permits Issued
Total Construction Valuation
Repair and Alteration
Comm
Ind
Public
New Construction
New Construction
Repair and Alteration
Repair and Alteration
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 55
General Business Licenses Issued - Q1 2026
258
CED Business License Report - Q1 2026
* Deliquent Licensees: All records are being reviewed to confirm whether a business is still operating in the city, has relocated, or simply failed to renew with the Washington State Department of Revenue. Local businesses operating without a valid business license will
receive 30, 60, and 90-day notices from the City.
Program Effective Date: The City's Business License Program was launched Q3 of 2025. Businesses operating in Port Angeles City Limits were not previously required to obtain a Port Angeles Endorsement on their Washington State Business License.
** Number of employees: This data is voluntary and not required in order to receive a business license. Information obtained by the City has been self-reported and is not necessarily representative of all licensed businesses in Port Angeles.
*** Licenses Issued by Industry: North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes are voluntarily reported. Information obtained by the City has been self-reported and is not necessarily representative of all licensed businesses in Port Angeles.
10
Non-Profit Licenses Issued - Q1 2026
258
10
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Licenses Issued by Quarter - Q1 2026*
General Business Non-Profit
2
4
6
6
7
8
9
11
18
20
20
21
24
28
45
67
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
Transportation and Warehousing
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing
Manufacturing
Finance and Insurance
Information
Educational Services
Wholesale Trade
Accommodation and Food Services
Administrative & Support / Waste Management
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation
Other Services
Health Care and Social Assistance
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
Retail Trade
Construction
Licensed Issued by Industry - Q1 2026***
1-5 employees,
88.5%
6-10 employees, 5.1%
11-20 employees, 3.9%
21 or more employees, 2.6%
Licensed Businesses by Number of Employees - Q1 2026**
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 56
2026 Q1
CED Grant Report
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 57
1
CED Grant Report 2026 Q1
ACTIVE GRANTS
Parking and Business Improvement Area (PBIA) & Port Angeles
Waterfront District (PAWD)
Grant: Pending Q1 total from the Finance Department
Source: PBIA Funds
Contract Number: N/A
Partners: Port Angeles Waterfront District
Status: Three-year contract approved by City Council on December 3rd, 2024. Contract executed
on December 17th, 2024, and valid through December 31, 2027.
Contractor: N/A
Q1 Deliverables:
• PAWD reporting demonstrated the following:
o Continued to hold monthly Elevate PA meetings.
o Engaged in various marketing, communications and outreach efforts utilizing
social media to promote district activity and community engagement.
o Assisted with driving public comment for the Laurel Street Stairs redesign.
o Prepared and presented to City Council on March 17 about current street
conditions as they pertain to the downtown corridor.
o Facilitated the presentation of the new Marine Discovery Center for the business
community to build excitement and answer questions about the upcoming
construction.
o Held a successful “Welcome Back Coho” event for the second year with over 175
attendees and national coverage in Canada.
o Maintained open and effective communications with the PAWD members,
developing a list of needs, concerns, successes, and plans, all of which are
included in the full Q1 report provided by PAWD.
o Sponsored several seasonal events to support vibrancy and activities within the
Waterfront District.
o Established a Downtown Neighborhood Watch group to share information with
the City’s Downtown Resource Officer
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 58
2
o Collaborated with the Clallam EDC to work on a Waterfront District Downtown
Vibrancy Survey.
o Continued efforts to become a Main Street Community in 2026.
o Continued PBIA database maintenance and updates.
Department of Commerce: Urban Forestry Program
Grant: $109,000
Source: Washington Department of Commerce; Climate Commitment Act
Contract Number: 26-63117-005
Partners: WA Department of Commerce
Status: Contract period is July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026.
Contractor: The City will be responsible for providing all but one of the deliverables under the
grant agreement. A Contractor will be selected to conduct an Urban Tree Canopy Assessment
and Stream Assessment that will be used to develop the Urban Forestry Management Plan. An
RFQ for this process was issued on March 27, 2026.
Q1 Deliverables:
• An Urban Forestry Tiger Team has been established. This team consists of members from
the Community and Economic Development Department, Parks and Recreation
Department, and Public Works & Utilities Department. The team will work together to
develop program goals and an outline that is due April 30 to Commerce.
• The team worked on a Director’s Determination for Urban Forest Management that will
clarify and streamline how the City’s Urban Forest will be managed until the full program
is established.
• The RFQ to select the contractor for the Urban Tree Canopy and Stream Assessment was
issued on March 27, 2026. Qualifications were due on April 12.
Pre-Development Technical Assistance – Multifamily Housing Pipeline
Project
Grant: $1,988,500
Source: Washington Department of Commerce; Housing Trust Fund
Contract Number: 25-94110-003
Partners: A design team for the project will be selected in Q2 2026. A development partner will
be selected by Q2 of 2027.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 59
3
Status: In Q1 of 2026, City staff have worked with the City Council and Washington State
Department of Commerce Multifamily Rental Housing Division to sign a contract for the
$1,988,500 Housing grant. City staff drafted an RFP for the design services phase to find a
qualified architect or engineering firm to conduct the design and predevelopment work for a
multifamily, multistory, mixed-use building at 935 W 10th Street, Port Angeles, WA 98363.
Contractor: N/A
Q1 Deliverables:
• On January 20, 2026, the City Council approved the $1,988,500 predevelopment
technical assistance grant.
• An RFP for the “Multifamily Housing Pipeline project – Design Services Phase” was posted
on March 9 to the following sources:
o To the City of Port Angeles bid page
o To the City of Port Angeles News and Announcements page
o Peninsula Daily News Legal Notices
o The Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce’s Bids and RFP page
o City staff personally reached out to 80+ architecture and engineering firms that
were identified through MRSC’s qualified roster.
• The City received and responded to over 80 questions by over a dozen interested parties
during the Q&A phase of the RFP that ended on March 25, 2026.
Clallam County Economic Development Council
Grant: $20,000
Source: General Fund
Contract Number: N/A
Partners: Clallam County Economic Development Council
Status: Contract period is January 1st, 2026 – December 31st, 2026
Contractor: N/A
Q1 Deliverables:
• Actively worked with interested parties to restart the McKinley Mill and began contracting
due diligence of the property.
• Initiated three (3) new business contacts including multi-housing logistics, forest
products, and a modular home manufacturer.
• Continued to support existing businesses and provided support for expansion including
businesses in auto sales, accounting, public transportation, tree services, among others.
• Provided startup assistance to three (3) new businesses, including construction,
restaurants, and personal services.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 60
4
• Hosted five (5) trainings, workshops, or events: Washington Emergency Management
Division – Contracting in Times of Disaster Training; Opportunity Zone 2.0; DNR Program –
Olympic Region; Small Business Innovation Research Program; and Clallam EDC Annual
Gala.
Accelerating Procurement Excellence (APEX) Accelerator
Grant: $10,000
Source: General Fund
Contract Number: N/A
Partners: Accelerating Procurement Excellence (APEX) Accelerator
Status: Contract period is January 1st, 2026 – December 31st, 2026
Contractor: N/A
Q1 Deliverables:
• Established 2026 priorities including holding more in-person events for contractors and
local agency staff, increasing marketing and outreach, expanding visibility to the program,
and partnering with agencies that will benefit local businesses.
• Provided support to eight (8) businesses within the City.
• Enrolled three (3) new small businesses in APEX services.
• Assisted four (4) businesses within the City with Unique Entity Identifiers
• Enrolled one (1) new Certified Business within the City.
Lodging Tax Annual Fund Allocation
Grants: $1,597,925
Source: Loding Tax Funds
Contract Number: N/A
Partners: Please see the ‘Q1 Deliverables’ section below.
Status: All awardees from the December 2025 City Council approval have contracts that have
been routed for signature. Several contracts are now fully executed. The CED team continually
disburse funds as reimbursement requests come in. The round two funding requests will be
discussed at the April 21 City Council meeting.
Contractor: Lodging Tax funds are used to support the following annual contracts and expenses:
• Port Angeles Regional Chamber of Commerce – Visitor Center Operations: $142,342
• Wander Fuca – Destination Marketing Campaign: $266,000
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 61
5
• City of Port Angeles ROW Coverage Costs – NTE $10,000
• City of Port Angeles Expenses for LTAX Related Work – $55,824
Q1 Deliverables:
Organization Name Amount Reimbursed
Port Angeles Regional Chamber of Commerce $22,988.24
Wander Fuca $66,150
Lincoln Park BMX Association $35,258.33
Total Amount Reimbursed: $124,396.57
Affordable Housing Programs
Grants: $130,275.62
Source: Sales and Use Tax funds, Fee Waivers, and NICE funds.
Contract Number: N/A
Partners: Please see the ‘Q1 Deliverables’ section below.
Contractor: N/A
Q1 Deliverables:
Fee Waiver Program Grants
• The City waived $130,275.62 in building, land use, fire, engineering, and public works
fees for eleven eligible residential projects.
Façade Grant Program
Grants: $0
Source: $40,726.15 CDBG program income funds.
Contract Number: N/A
Partners: Please see the ‘Q1 Deliverables’ section below.
Contractor: N/A
Q1 Deliverables:
• No Façade Grants were distributed in Q1. We received one application that will be
brought to the April Planning Commission for approval.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 62
6
CLOSED GRANTS
None to report for Q1.
April 22, 2026 Planning Commission Packet Pg. 63
Joel McKeen: Deputy Chief | Fire Marshal
Shannen Cartmel: Community and Economic
Development Manager | Building Official
Jonathan Boehme: City Engineer
Planning Commission Public
Hearing for MCA 26-0044
Amendments to Titles 11, 14, and 18 to
improve organization clarity and
administration of fire life and safety
inspections and occupancy-related
provisions.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 1
Phase 1 Development Code
Update (2026–2028)
Focus:
•Codifying existing administrative
procedures:
Chapter 14.15 Certificate Of
Occupancy Review Program
And Procedures.
Chapter 14.30 Fire And Life
Safety Annual Inspections
Program.
•Overall Organization and removal
of outdated language.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 2
Phase 1: Development Code
Update (2026–2028)
Goal:
•Clarity.
•Transparency.
•Consistency.
•Alignment with Vision 2045.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 3
MCA 26-0044 Procedures
TYPE V Citywide, legislative non-project actions requiring
public notice, public hearing, and City Council approval.
•Key Milestones:
March 27, 2026 – SEPA Determination of Non-Significance
issued (No. 26-0075).
April 1, 2026 – Public notice published.
April 14, 2026 – Written public comment period closed.
April 22, 2026 – Planning Commission public hearing.
May 19, 2026 – City Council first reading.
June 2, 2026 – City Council second reading and adoption.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 4
MCA 26-0044 Outreach
•February 10, 2026 – Waterfront District Elevate PA.
•February 25, 2026 – Planning Commission Introduction.
•March 26, 2026 – Port Angeles Association of Realtors.
•April 2, 2026 – North Peninsula Builders Association.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 5
Important Clarification
•No new regulatory standards created.
•The proposed amendments are organizational and procedural in
nature and do not introduce new regulatory standards.
•All life-safety provisions continue to reflect the most recently
adopted International Building Code and International Fire Code.
•Authority remains grounded in:
Washington State Building Code (RCW 19.27).
International Building Code (IBC).
International Fire Code (IFC).
•Updates improve organization and readability only.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 6
Why These Updates Are
Proposed
•Clarify structure across Titles 11, 14 and 18.
•Standardize appeal and review pathways.
•Consolidate related procedures.
•Maintain legal alignment and consistency.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 7
•Support a clear, enforceable, and
transparent municipal code.
•Align administrative procedures
across departments.
•Codify existing practices without
expanding regulatory scope.
•Improve predictability in
permitting and inspections.
•Ensure long-term consistency and
durability of City code.
Project Goals
and Objectives
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 8
Chapter 11.10: Building
Moving – Use of Public Roads
•Moves existing regulations from Chapter 14.32 to
Title 11.
•Transfers permitting authority to Public Works &
Utilities (ROW use).
•Removes outdated and incorrect provisions.
•Modernizes code language and eliminates “shall”.
•Clarifies requirements and removes ambiguity.
•Aligns appeal and violation provisions with current
code.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 9
Chapter 14.01: Construction
Codes
•No changes to existing regulatory requirements.
•Removes outdated and incorrect provisions.
•Modernizes code language and eliminates “shall”.
•Clarifies requirements and removes ambiguity.
•Aligns appeal and violation provisions with current
code.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 10
Chapter 14.03: Building Code
•Updates code adoption from 1997 Uniform Sign Code
to IBC Appendix H.
•Limits scope to structural and safety requirements
only.
•Defers content, zoning, and aesthetic standards to
PAMC 14.36 (Sign Code).
•Removes outdated and incorrect provisions.
•Modernizes code language and eliminates “shall”.
lanning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 1
1
Chapter 14.15: C of O Review and
Business Occupancy Verification Program
and Procedures
•Codifies existing administrative procedures into a new PAMC
chapter.
•Organizational and procedural only —no new regulatory
requirements.
•Maintains life-safety standards under adopted IBC and IFC.
•Introduces a Type 0 pathway for simple business ownership
changes.
•Establishes clear, consistent review steps and expectations.
•Defines when a Certificate of Occupancy review is required.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 12
Chapter 14.15: Certificate of
Occupancy Purpose
•Purpose:
Maintains life-safety standards required under the International
Building Code (IBC) and International Fire Code (IFC).
Confirms approved use of a building.
Verifies compliance prior to occupancy.
•Clarifies:
When a Certificate of Occupancy vs. Business Occupancy
Verification is required.
How corrections and compliance timelines are handled.
Certificate of Occupancy posting requirements.
Coordination between Fire and Building Departments
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 13
Chapter 14.15: When a Certificate of
Occupancy vs. a Business Occupancy
Verification Required
•Certificate of Occupancy Required When:
New building construction.
Major remodel or permitted work completion.
Change in occupancy classification or building use.
Discrepancy with existing Certificate of Occupancy.
•Business Occupancy Verification Required When:
New business or ownership change.
No change in occupancy classification or use.
•Both Include:
Fire and Building Department review and inspection.
Issuance or confirmation of Certificate of Occupancy.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 14
Chapter 14.15 Certificate of
Occupancy Posting Requirement
•Certificate of Occupancy must be
visibly posted on-site.
•Long-standing requirement.
•Supports transparency and
inspection verification.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 15
Chapter 14.21:
Fire Code
•Updates the purpose statement in
modern language.
•Formally adopts IFC Section 503 and
Appendix D (Fire Access Roads).
•Allows flexibility for alternate fire
access where site constraints exist.
•Removes outdated provisions.
•Modernizes code language and
eliminates “shall”.
•Aligns appeal and violation
provisions with current code.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 16
Chapter 14.23: Fire Alarms
•Updates the purpose statement in modern
language.
•No changes to existing regulatory requirements.
•Removes outdated and incorrect provisions.
•Modernizes code language and eliminates
“shall”.
•Clarifies requirements and removes ambiguity.
•Aligns appeal and violation provisions with
current code.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 17
Chapter 14.26: Automatic Fire
Sprinkler Systems
•Updates the purpose statement in modern language.
•No changes to existing regulatory requirements.
•Reorganizes into clear, user-friendly requirements.
•Removes outdated and incorrect provisions.
•Modernizes code language and eliminates “shall”.
•Clarifies requirements and removes ambiguity.
•Aligns appeal and violation provisions with current
code.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 18
Chapter 14.30: Fire and Life Safety
Annual Inspections Program
•Codifies existing inspection
procedures into a new PAMC chapter.
•Organizational and procedural only —
no new regulatory requirements.
•Required under the International Fire
Code (IFC).
•Conducted by the Fire Department to
verify ongoing life-safety compliance.
•Formalizes an existing program to
improve consistency, transparency,
and predictability.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 19
Chapter14.30 –Key Elements Clarified
in the Fire & Life Safety Inspections Code
•Occupancies subject to annual inspection.
•Inspection scheduling and procedures.
•Correction notices and compliance timelines.
•Re-inspection procedures.
•Appeal and review process.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 20
Chapter 14.30 –
Occupancies Inspected by
the Fire Department
•Commercial businesses.
•Vacant commercial or industrial
buildings.
•Multifamily buildings (3+ units).
•Other occupancies requiring life-
safety verification.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 21
Chapter 14.30: What do
Fire Inspectors Verify
•Fire protection systems(alarms and
sprinkler systems).
•Means of egress(exit access and signage).
•Emergency systems(emergency lighting
and fire extinguishers).
•Hazardous materials storage.
•General fire code compliance.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 22
Coordination between
Chapters14.15 and 14.30: Fire
Inspections & CO Program
•Fire inspectors verify life-safety systems
and confirm posted Certificates of
Occupancy.
•Identified issues are referred for
administrative review.
•Ensures buildings are used safely and as
originally approved.
•Formalizes an existing process for clarity
and consistency
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 23
Coordination between Chapters
14.15 and 14.30: Washington
State Rating Bureau (WSRB)
•WSRB evaluates fire protection capabilities
across Washington and assigns Protection
Class (PC) ratings (1–10), which can directly
influence insurance premiums.
•Strong, codified annual fire inspection
programs—coordinated with building
review—can improve WSRB ratings.
•This coordination was identified as an area for
improvement in our last evaluation.
•Annual Fire and Life Safety Inspections reduce
fire risk and can help lower insurance costs for
residents and businesses.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 24
Section14.40.046: Electrical Vehicle
Parking Space Requirements.
•Repeals PAMC 14.40.046 in its entirety.
•Defers to Washington State Building Code (RCW 19.27).
•Eliminates conflicting and duplicative local requirements.
•Supports clearer determinations and reduces barriers to
development, including affordable housing.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 25
Section18.08.110: Fire
Suppression Requirements
•Removes requirement for
exterior bell alarms outside the
four-minute response area.
•Removes outdated provisions.
•Modernizes code language and
eliminates “shall”.
•Aligns appeal and violation
provisions with current code.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 26
What This Means for
Businesses & Owners
•No new operational requirements.
•Reflects existing state and locally
adopted codes.
•Provides clearer, more consistent
expectations.
•Most businesses will see little to no
change.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 27
Commitment to
Transparency & Safety
The City of Port Angeles is committed to:
•Clear and transparent processes.
•Consistent application of adopted codes.
•Strong coordination across departments.
•Ongoing collaboration with businesses.
•Protection of life safety and public welfare.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 28
Comprehensive Plan Consistency
•Implements LU-7.5: Predictable, fair, and timely
permitting processes.
•Supports H-3.7: Safe, livable, and well-maintained
housing.
•Advances T-3.2: Protection of right-of-way and
infrastructure.
•Aligns with adopted policy direction without
expanding regulation.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 29
Summary of Findings
•Administrative and organizational code improvements.
•No expansion of regulatory authority or safety
requirements.
•Improves clarity, consistency, and usability of code.
•Supports efficient and predictable permit processing.
•Consistent with Comprehensive Plan and adopted
codes.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 30
Staff Recommendation
City staff recommends that
the Planning Commission:
Recommend approval of
Municipal Code
Amendment No. 26-0044 to
the City Council.
Planning Commission Meeting -April 22, 2026 31
Type 0 Over-the-Counter Permit
Program Expansion
Planning Commission Public
Hearing for MCA 26-0067
Presented By:
•Shannen Cartmel -CED Manager
•Jonathan Boehme –City Engineer
•Joel McKeen –Deputy Chief/Fire Marshal
•Triston Carlstrom –CED Technician II
Background
This phase responds to prior City direction and the adopted Planning
Commission workplan.
•December 2025 City Council direction to expand the over-the-counter
permitting program
•Ordinance requested to Planning Commission by April 2026
•2026 through 2028 Workplan Phase 1 includes life-safety and over-
the-counter permitting updates
•Goal is predictable review for routine, low-risk permit types while
preserving staff discretion
2
MCA 26-0067 procedures:
•Phase 1 Procedures:
Citywide, non-project actions requiring public notice, hearing, and
City Council approval.
•Key Milestones:
March 27, 2026 –SEPA Determination of Non-Significance issued
(No 26-0075).
April 1, 2026 –Public notice published.
April 14, 2026 –Comment period closed.
April 22, 2026 –Planning Commission public hearing.
May 19, 2026 –City Council first reading.
June 2, 2026 –City Council second reading.
3
Why Staff is Recommending Expansion
Timely processing can work well for permit types that are limited,
standardized, and low risk
For applicants
•More timely service
•Clearer expectations
For staff
•Less routing on
simple permits
•More time for
complex reviews
For the City
•More predictable
processing
•No reduction in
regulatory
oversight
4
Current Type 0 Program and Results
Existing Type 0 permits are already showing timely turnaround and
measurable results.
Existing Type 0 permit types
•Mechanical permits
•Re-roof and re-side permits
•Plumbing permits
•Residential solar permits
•Fire permits
•Inspection-only permits
94
2026 YTD
permits
+30.6%
Change vs.
last year
352
2025
total
1 Day*
Average
Turnaround
94.7%
2026 timely
issuance
90.6%
2025
same-day
5
* Average staff time from intake to permit issuance
Proposed Type 0 Expansion
MCA 26-0067 adds permit categories that are routine, limited in scope,
and well suited to over-the-counter processing.
Permit types proposed to be added
•New owner business
occupancy verification
•Non-construction stormwater
discharge permit for pressure
washing
•Non-food regulatory mobile
and itinerant vendors permit
•Marine fueling operations
•Repair and replace shoreline
exemptions
•Right-of-way use A-frame sign
permit
•Side sewer repair permit
•Waste disposal permit
•Welding and cutting hot works
•Repair and replace critical
area exemptions
6
New Owner Business Occupancy Verification
Individual permit type proposed to be added to the Type 0 over-the-
counter program.
•Ownership change only
•No change in use or occupancy classification
•Changes in use or occupancy remain Type I
•More direct path for straightforward ownership changes
7
Non-Food Regulatory Mobile and Itinerant Vendors
Permit
•Applies to non-food vendors only
•Food-related and higher-review activities remain Type I
•Clearer review path for routine vendor applications
8
Non-Construction Stormwater Discharge Permit for
Pressure Washing
•Narrow, routine activity
•Well suited to over-the-counter review
•Other regulatory requirements still apply
•Clearer and more predictable review path
9
Side Sewer Repair Permit
•Routine permit type
•Eligible for over-the-counter processing
•More efficient path for limited-complexity repair work
10
Right-of-Way Use A-Frame Sign Permit
•Defined, limited-scope permit type
•Well suited to over-the-counter review
•Still subject to applicable right-of-way
requirements
11
Waste Disposal Permit
•Routine review category
•Supports more efficient front-counter processing
•Separate regulatory requirements still apply
12
Marine Fueling Operations
•Defined Type 0 permit type
•Clearer and more predictable path for
routine applications
•Other regulatory requirements still apply
where required
1
Welding and Cutting Hot Works
•Eligible as Type 0 where activity fits the
defined scope
•Staff may require additional review based
on nature or scope
•More efficient processing without
removing safety safeguards
14
Repair and Replace Critical Area Exemptions
•Routine exempt repair and replacement work
•May be processed over the counter where eligible
•Staff may require additional review based on scope or
location
15
Repair and Replace Shoreline Exemptions
•Routine exempt shoreline repair and replacement work
•May be processed over the counter where eligible
•Staff may require additional review based on proposal
details
16
Staff Recommendation
City staff recommends the Planning Commission:
Recommend approval of Municipal Code Amendment No.
26-0044 to the City Council.
17
Planning Commission
Questions and Discussion
City of Port Angeles
Community and
Economic Development
18