Council updates right‑of‑way, excavation and small wireless code sections to streamline permitting

The Yakima City Council adopted multiple ordinances to clarify and consolidate the city’s right‑of‑way and excavation codes and to create a new small wireless facilities chapter. Council described the package as “housekeeping” consistent with staff recommendations to align permitting authority and reduce repeated code language.

Key changes

City staff said the ordinances: (1) amend Yakima Municipal Code chapters 8.01, 8.20 and 8.72 to clarify violations/penalties, centralize references and transfer right‑of‑way permitting and enforcement to the engineering division; and (2) create chapter 8.21 to house provisions specific to small wireless facilities in the right‑of‑way while referencing the more detailed zoning chapter (title 15.29) for siting and technical standards.

Why it matters: The updates aim to simplify permitting and enforcement, avoid duplicated text in multiple code sections and make it clearer where applicants should submit permits for rights‑of‑way work or small wireless facility installations.

Council action

Planning Manager Trevor Martin and Community Development Director Bill Preston presented the changes, calling them clarifications and cross‑reference consolidations. The ordinances were moved, seconded and passed by roll call votes of 7–0. Staff said the new structure references Title 15.29 (the small wireless zoning provisions) and moves operational permits to the engineering department where right‑of‑way work is administered.

Ending

With the ordinances adopted, applicants for right‑of‑way work and small wireless facilities should now consult the consolidated engineering and zoning chapters for permitting requirements. Staff will implement the code changes and update application forms and guidance.