§ 23.04.122. Measurement of Height.

The height of a building or structure is to be measured as the vertical distance from the highest point of the structure to the average of the highest and lowest points where the exterior walls would touch the natural grade level of the site; except that finished grade instead of natural grade shall be the basis for height measurement where:

a.

A site is graded or filled pursuant to approved subdivision improvement plans, or a grading permit that was approved to authorize:

(1)

Grading or fill to conform the elevation of the building site with that of adjoining developed sites; or

(2)

Fill to mitigate flood hazards pursuant to the provisions of Sections 23.07.060 et seq. of this title; or

(3)

Fill determined by the Environmental Coordinator and Planning Director to be necessary to mitigate the impacts of allowable development on archeological resources, which shall not exceed a depth of 24 inches unless specifically authorized by the Planning Director.

b.

The site was graded or filled pursuant to a grading permit approved before September 18, 1986.

c.

An adjustment (23.01.044) is approved by the Planning Director on the basis that the site was filled prior to 1959.

Measurement of Height - Example 1

Measurement of Height - Example 2