|
The Transportation Department recently launched a new Right-of-Way Procedures Manual which serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone conducting activities within the public right-of-way (ROW). The manual was developed to make information easy to access online and create consistent customer experience for those navigating permitting, project requirements, and other ROW-related procedures. Whether you are looking to construct a new building, install a new utility, remove a tree or replace a driveway, the manual communicates the processes and rules that minimize conflicts and promote public safety in the right-of-way, and ensure compliance with city standards, policies and guidelines. Additional information on the city's right-of-way can be found on the Transportation Department's website.
In July, the Bellevue City Council updated the city’s Land Use Code and tree regulations to help protect Bellevue’s trees. These changes affect developers planning projects and property owners.
For development projects, new rules set a minimum number of trees based on property size and project type. Developers can meet this requirement by keeping existing trees, planting new ones, or paying a fee if planting isn’t possible.
For homeowners and property owners not involved in development, a permit is now required to remove large or landmark trees. Some properties also have new rules about replanting trees if a healthy tree is removed.
To make things easier, the City has created a lower-cost Clearing and Grading permit for limited tree removal on residential lots.
Need help understanding the new rules? Check out these simple guides:
- Tree Removals on Private Property – Find out when you need a permit, how to apply, and what to know before removing a tree.
- Tree Removal User Guide – A clear, easy-to-read summary of Bellevue’s updated tree regulations.
Find both guides and more details on our Tree Removal page.
Starting this year, the Development Services Department introduced a new process that allows residential builders to submit multiple building permit applications during the review of a final short plat and final plat – even before the plat is officially recorded. Key details to keep in mind: the assigned Land Use planner will request a Hold Harmless Agreement as part of the first review cycle. Additionally, as part of the decision criteria of a short plat or plat (LUC 20.45B.130.A.6 & LUC 20.45A.130.F) the land use staff cannot approve a variance for the associated building permits.
When submitting building permits, it’s important to ensure they meet all code requirements and align with future property boundaries. Builders are encouraged to notify land use staff in advance to help coordinate the process.
Previously, applicants could only submit one single-family permit during the review of a short plat or plat – and only if there was no existing home on the site. Under the updated process, builders may now submit multiple permits for review at the same time as the short plat or plat review.
Please note that the short plat or plat must be approved and recorded before building permits can be issued, except in cases in which one permit is allowed for a site without an existing home.
For additional information or questions, please contact Kimo Burden, Neighborhood Planning Manager, 425-452-5242 or CBurden@BellevueWA.gov.
|
