Projections into Required Yards

Under section 21.45.070 of the municipal code, the following structures, may project into required front, side, or rear yard setbacks, and are not considered in determining lot coverage:

• Paved terraces.
• Unroofed landings and stairs may project into required front and rear yards only, provided that no portion other than a light handrail may extend higher than 30 inches above the finished grade level.
• Windowsills, fireplace chases, belt courses, cornices, eaves, and similar incidental architectural features may project not more than two feet into any required yard.
• Open fire exits may project not more than four feet six inches into any required yard.
• A private garage or carport may project into a required rear yard abutting a public alley.  The garage or carport must be included in determining lot coverage.
• The Planning director and the Director of Decvelopment Services may permit the installation of temporary handicap access ramps in required front, side, and rear yards for no longer than one year from the date the permit is granted.
• Bay windows that are not more than eight feet in width where the projection breaks the plane of the wall may project no more than two feet into any required yard set back, so long as there is an eight-foot radius offset to any opposing bay window on the adjacent lot.

If you use the online version of the code, try searching on "21.45.070" for more information.  Please note that recent amendments may not have been published yet.  Land Use Enforcement will be happy to verify the current code language for you.