A. To promote the public health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of the city;

B. To preserve and enhance the city’s physical and aesthetic character by preventing indiscriminate removal or destruction of trees and ground cover on undeveloped and partially developed property;

C. To promote land development practices that result in a minimal disturbance to the city’s vegetation and soils;

D. To minimize surface water and ground water runoff and diversion and to prevent erosion and reduce the risk of slides;

E. To minimize the need for additional storm drainage facilities;

F. To retain clusters of trees for the abatement of noise and for wind protection;

G. To promote building and site planning practices that are consistent with the city’s natural topographical and vegetational features while at the same time recognizing that certain factors such as condition (e.g., disease, danger of falling, etc.), proximity to existing and proposed structures and improvements, interference with utility services, protection of scenic views, and the realization of a reasonable enjoyment of property may require the removal of certain trees and ground cover;

H. To reduce siltation and water pollution in the harbor;

I. To implement the goals and objectives of the Washington State Environmental Policy Act;

J. To implement and further the city’s comprehensive plan;

K. It is not the intent or purpose of this chapter to prevent the reasonable development of land in the city. (Ord. 1197 § 55, 2010; Ord. 709 § 1, 1996; Ord. 334 § 2, 1980. Formerly 16.44.020).