17.98.060 Exceptions.
A. Processing. An exception requested under this section shall be processed in conjunction with a design review application, and shall follow the procedures for permit processing by the board as set forth in GHMC 17.98.055. An exception is used in those situations in which an applicant does not provide an alternative design to the requirements of Chapter 17.99 GHMC, Design Manual.
B. The requirements for a complete design exception application are:
1. Submittal of a complete design review application as set forth in GHMC 17.98.040.
2. A written statement describing the requested exception.
3. A written statement justifying the granting of the requested exception pursuant to the criteria of subsection D of this section.
C. Board Action. The board shall issue a recommendation to the director on an exception application.
D. Criteria for Approval. All of the following circumstances must be shown to exist for approval of a design exception:
1. Special conditions and circumstances exist which render a specific requirement of Chapter 17.99 GHMC, Design Manual, unnecessary, given the location and intended use of the proposed development;
2. The special conditions and circumstances are characteristic of the proposed general use of a site and not of a specific tenant;
3. The special conditions and circumstances are not representative of typical retail, professional office or residential type development which may be allowed within the zoning district;
4. The requested exception is based upon functional consideration rather than economic hardship, personal convenience or personal design preferences;
5. Architectural changes in the project design as a result of the exception have been sufficiently compensated by other architectural embellishments, and site plan changes as a result of the exception have been sufficiently compensated by other site amenities; and
6. The requested exception will not result in a project which is inconsistent with the intent and general scope of the standards of Chapter 17.99 GHMC, Design Manual. (Ord. 1197 § 78, 2010; Ord. 1093 § 12, 2007; Ord. 975 § 15, 2004).