Title
Small Cell Zoning Code Amendments
Recommended Action
Briefing and discussion of proposed text amendment, provide feedback to staff as needed.
Report
Issue:
Verizon Wireless has applied for a zoning code text amendment to update Olympia Municipal Code Chapter 18.44, Antennas and Wireless Communications Facilities, to address the siting of a new wireless technology called "Small Cell." Existing city regulations create challenges for locating small cell facilities that make them effective.
Staff Contact:
Tim Smith, Principal Planner, Community Planning and Development, Planning 360.570.3915
Paula Smith, Assistant Planner, Community Planning & Development, Planning 360.753.8596
Presenter(s):
Tim Smith, Principal Planner and Paula Smith, Assistant Planner
Background and Analysis:
The proliferation of personal wireless devices and the increase of data usage have resulted in an ever-increasing need for small cell technologies to enhance coverage. The Federal Communications Commission and the telecommunications industry have identified existing utility poles and public rights-of-way as resources for the deployment of small cells. Small cells improve speed and capacity for both telephonic and data transmission, as well as reduced gaps in coverage. Wireless providers are targeting the public right-of-way for their facilities for both 4G and future 5G expansion.
Small cell facility is defined in RCW 80.36.375(2) as a personal wireless services facility that meets both of the following qualifications:
(i) Each antenna is located inside an antenna enclosure of no more than three cubic feet in volume or, in the case of an antenna that has exposed elements, the antenna and all of its exposed elements could fit within an imaginary enclosure of no more than three cubic feet; and
(ii) Primary equipment enclosures are no larger than seventeen cubic feet in volume. The following associated equipment may be located outside the primary equipment enclosure and if so...
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