“Seismic hazard areas” means areas that, due to a combination of soil and groundwater conditions, are subject to severe risk of ground shaking, subsidence, or liquefaction of soils during earthquakes. These areas are typically underlain by soft or loose saturated soils (such as alluvium), have a shallow groundwater table and are typically located on the floors of river valleys.

“Sensitive species” means species that are losing habitat or the population is declining.

“Setbacks” means the required distances between every structure on a lot and the lot lines of the lot on which it is located, or from rights-of-way, access easements, or the edges of critical areas as delineated according to the standards and procedures defined in this title.

“Site assessment” means a site-specific analysis which identifies the presence of critical areas, classifies and designates the critical area, documents site conditions, analyzes project-generated impacts, and identifies appropriate mitigative measures. Site assessments include wetland reports, hydrogeologic reports, and habitat management plans.

“Slump” means the downward and outward movement of a mass of bedrock or regolith along a distinct surface of failure.

“Surface water protection area” means an upland protective area identified as part of a watershed control program under WAC 246-290-135 for water systems using surface sources. [Ord. 4525 § 1, 2021; Ord. 3911 § 2, 2009; Code 1970 §§ 28.08.270 – 28.08.290.]