2019.03.18 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Right-of-way and Telecommunications Ordinance Text Amendment Page 3 • Require additional permits and fees for the maintenance or replacement of small cell facilities. A. Chapter 82 Utilities, Article IV Right of way Definitions Definitions were added to the ordinance to clarify the meaning of a small wireless facility and a micro wireless facility, both of which are now permitted uses in the public ROW. Additional definitions such as collocate, utility pole, wireless facility, wireless service, wireless support structure, and wireline backhaul facility were added to support changes made throughout the ordinance. Permit Requirements Revisions were made to state that a permit is required by a registrant to erect or install a wireless support structure or to collocate a small wireless facility in the ROW. No permit is necessary to conduct routine maintenance of a small wireless facility, replacement of a small wireless facility that is substantially similar in size and design, or to install, maintain, and operate a micro wireless facility. This section also states that a conditional use permit is required to install a new small wireless facility support structure in districts zoned for single- family residential use or is in a historic district established by federal or state law or city ordinance. Permit Conditions and Fees Because small wireless facilities are meant to boost data coverage, they work as a network, which means that multiple facilities are needed within a 2 mile radius. Many small cell providers will be applying for multiple facilities at once and will likely place facilities in a line within the public ROW. An applicant can submit a consolidated application with up to 15 small wireless facilities on the same application. The City may approve some small wireless facilities and deny others if they impose on public health, safety, and welfare. Small wireless facility permit application are on a 90-day deadline for action, but may be extended by the City if the applicant fails to submit all required documents or there are 30 or more applications seeking approval that were received within a seven day period. There are several small wireless facility conditions addressed in the revised ordinance. When it comes to the physical appearance of the facilities, small wireless facilities need to be of a design that is compatible with the character of the surrounding area and use materials, colors, textures, screening, and landscaping to blend in with the natural setting and built environment. Facilities also may not extend more than ten feet above its wireless support structure. Where a small wireless facility is collocated, it must be placed on the particular wireless support structure and at the height specified in the permit application. If the applicant proposes to collocate a facility on a decorative structure, such as a sign or light post, the City can impose additional requirements to accommodate the design and appearance of the structure to enhance or create visual and design consistency. For any applicant that wishes to install a new wireless support structure, the structure may not exceed