A. A wetland analysis report shall be prepared by a qualified wetland specialist and submitted to the department as part of the SEPA review process established by the city of Gig Harbor environmental policy ordinance, Chapter 18.04 GHMC. A wetlands analysis report is not required for those wetlands mapped and classified per the city of Gig Harbor wetlands map. A wetlands analysis report is required with all annexation petitions and land use applications for properties which do not have wetlands mapped and classified per the city of Gig Harbor wetlands map.

B. The wetland analysis report shall be prepared in accordance with the methods outlined in the Ecology Publication No. 10-06-002 Wetlands and CAO Updates – Guidance for Small Cities (Western Washington) or, if updated, a more recent version and submitted to the department for review for any proposals that are within 300 feet of a wetland.

C. Within 30 days of receipt of the wetland analysis report and other information, the department shall determine the appropriate wetland category, buffering requirement, and required mitigation. The report shall be accorded substantial weight and the department shall approve the report’s findings and approvals, unless specific, written reasons are provided which justify not doing so. Once accepted, the report shall control future decision-making related to designated wetlands unless new information is found demonstrating the report is in error. (Ord. 1245 § 34, 2012; Ord. 1036 § 16, 2006; Ord. 628 § 1, 1992; Ord. 611 § 1, 1991).