sammamish municipal code title 7a: parks and recreation

Agenda Bill

City Council Study Session

May 11, 2021

SUBJECT:

Sammamish Municipal Code Title 7A: Parks and Recreation

DATE SUBMITTED:

April 23, 2021

DEPARTMENT:

Parks, Recreation & Facilities

NEEDED FROM COUNCIL: ☐ Action ☑ Direction ☐ Informational

RECOMMENDATION:

Recommend any additional changes or updates.

EXHIBITS:

1. Exhibit 1 - Presentation

2. Exhibit 2 - SMC Title 7A

3. Exhibit 3 - SMC Title 7A Bail Schedule

4. Exhibit 4 - SMC Title 7A Tracking Matrix

5. Exhibit 5 - SMC Title 7A Public Feedback Report

6. Exhibit 6 - SMC Title 7A FAQs

BUDGET: Total dollar amount $0 ☐ Approved in budget

Fund(s) N/A ☐

☑

Budget reallocation required

No budgetary impact

WORK PLAN FOCUS AREAS:

☐ Transportation ☑ Community Safety

☐ Communication & Engagement ☐ Community Livability

☐ High Performing Government ☑ Culture & Recreation

☐ Environmental Health & Protection ☐ Financial Sustainability

NEEDED FROM COUNCIL:

Does City Council recommend any additional changes or updates?

KEY FACTS AND INFORMATION SUMMARY:

Summary

This agenda bill proposes revisions to the City Code that will repeal SMC Title 7 (Parks and Recreation), enact SMC Title 7A (Parks and Recreation), and adopt a corresponding bail schedule related to SMC Title 7A (Parks and Recreation). SMC Title 7A provides an update to park rules to support recent and upcoming changes in the parks system, operation practices, programming, and current park usage. The new code will clarify and modernize existing code language, add new rules to address current and unforeseen issues, and removes rules and language that are no longer relevant. The new code is intended to maximize positive behaviors in City parks and trails, keep public places feeling safe welcoming to all

people, and maintain the high quality of park maintenance and cleanliness. A bail schedule (a list of citation fees associated with civil infractions) has also been proposed to accompany the new code chapter and, following approval, would be filed at the King County District Court, Issaquah Courthouse. While the bail schedule is associated with the code, it would be adopted by City Council separately to allow flexibility in modifying the fees as needed in the future.

Background

Since the City's incorporation there have been few updates to the City Code related to park use. As a result, the department has been facing difficulties with responding to, and preparing for, issues that impact park usage in today's society. We are now faced with issues that include advancements in technology that have been introduced into City parks which were not anticipated. While staff have been able to use existing code to interpret enforcement, the Department aims to revise current code to provide greater clarity regarding these new issues.

In addition to new issues that have arisen over the last decade, the structure of the City Code which was incorporated from King County is difficult for the public to understand due to its method of organization. For instance, current park rules are organized by administrative rules, civil infractions and criminal misdemeanors, rather than by particular topic. As a result, park rules impacting activities such as boating, watercraft and swimming are located in many different sections across the City Code, creating complexity for users to understand which rules apply to specific park activities.

Stakeholders and Public Engagement

While developing concepts and code language, City staff received examples from other eastside cities, met with the King County Sheriff’s Office, researched park rules from neighboring jurisdictions, solicited feedback from the Parks and Recreation Commission, collaborated with multiple City departments, and worked closely with staff within the Parks and Recreation Division in order to understand what changes are meaningful, manageable, and critical for creating a safe and enjoyable environment for users across the City’s park system. Residents also had the opportunity to provide feedback to the City through an online public engagement process over the course of three weeks.

Significant changes

Many significant changes will occur if SMC Title 7A (Parks and Recreation) is enacted. Below is a summary of these changes which includes new content, content that is being removed, and content that adopts City, state and federal laws.

Overview

• Reduce redundancies by citing current laws (e.g. SMC 1.10.010: General penalties)

• Adopting as reference applicable RCWs, King County rules, federal laws

• Establish correct penalties for certain rules (infraction vs. misdemeanor)

New content

• Large groups

• Unintended use

• Age limits for park equipment

• Prohibited items in spray parks

• Burning restrictions

• Prohibited items on sports fields

• Time limits

• Freedom from discrimination

• Electric personal assistive mobility devices

• Motorized foot scooters

• Electric-assisted bicycles

• Toy motorized cars/trucks

• Anchorage

• Fishing rules

• Fishing pots

• Pet leash requirements

• Dog park rules

Removed content

• Adults accompanying minors (difficult to enforce)

• Speed limits for motor vehicles (using standard speed limit for all travel across park properties)

• Model Trail User Code of Conduct (difficult to enforce)

• Types of travel (redundant with new changes)

• Operating motorized watercraft near swimmers (redundant with new changes and existing laws)

• Tents and shelters on beaches (difficult to enforce)

• Contractual agreements (historical information/reference)

• Infractions and misdemeanors (adopting existing laws to maintain consistency with the City Code)

• Ban on motorized foot scooters (conflicts with new changes)

• Ban on picnicking in undesignated areas (not a rule the Department wishes to keep)

Citing as reference

• Definition: Alcoholic beverages (RCW)

• Definition: Discrimination (RCW)

• Definition: Electric-assisted bicycles (RCW)

• Definition: Electric personal assistive mobility devices (RCW)

• Definition: Emergency (SMC)

• Definition: Marijuana (RCW)

• Definition: Mopeds (RCW)

• Definition: Motorized foot scooters (RCW)

• Underage drinking (RCW)

• Controlled substances (SMC)

• Marijuana use (RCW)

• Fireworks (SMC)

• Firearms and dangerous weapons (RCW)

• Public disturbance (noise) (SMC)

• Drones (unmanned aircraft systems) (USC)

• Freedom from discrimination (RCW)

• Boating regulations (SMC)

• Animal control (SMC)

• Civil offenses, criminal misdemeanors, separate offenses, and nuisances (SMC)

Considerations

In order to remove conflicts with existing laws, the City will need to amend SMC 46.20 which currently bans any motorized foot scooters, including electric, in City parks.

Bail Schedule

Following the advice of Sammamish PD, the proposed changes would also lead to the establishment of a new bail schedule (fine structure) if a park user commits an infraction:

• $47 for the first violation

• $138 for every subsequent violation

The proposed changes would not include a bail schedule for misdemeanors as fines would be assessed by the City Prosecutor at the time criminal charges are filed.

Timeline

City staff began discussing revisions to park code beginning in June 2019. Planning meetings started in mid-July 2019 and stakeholder meetings with other departments began in late July 2019. The department’s final proposal for new park rules is tentatively aimed for the summer of 2020.

• Project kick-off: June 26, 2019

• Introduction to Parks & Recreation Commission: September 4, 2019

• First presentation at Parks & Recreation Commission: October 2, 2019

• Research, adjustments, and review by City departments/stakeholders: December 15, 2020

• Second presentation to Parks & Recreation Commission: January 6, 2021

• Public feedback: February 16 – March 7, 2021

• City Council Study Session: May 11, 2021

• City Council Study Session: June 8, 2021 (tentative)

• Finalize City Code: TBD

• Adoption by City Council: TBD

FINANCIAL IMPACT:

Changes to these park rules would require the Department to replace current park signage to cite the new sections of City Code.

OTHER ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:

Alternative #1

No changes to current City Code. If not approved, City Code may be unclear to the general public, remain outdated and inconsistent with other City and state laws, and may no longer be consistent with current events and issues that impact park usage. City staff will need to plan on how to interpret old code in order to ensure consistency in the enforcement of park rules.

Alternative #2

Add new rules to outdated City Code. Future additions of new rules will require the City to piece together new regulations with old code that may be outdated, potentially creating the risk of confusion, duplication and/or contradictions within current City code.

RELATED CITY GOALS, POLICIES, AND MASTER PLANS:

2018 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan

https://www.sammamish.us/attachments/pagecontent/48829/PRO%20Plan%20FINAL%20adopted%2003-27-2018%20FOR%20WEBSITE.pdf

City Code ChangesSMC Title 7A (Parks and Recreation)

May 11, 2021

City Council Study Session

Presentation Topics• Objective

• Significant Changes

• Feedback from Constituents and Stakeholders

• Timeline

• Questions, Feedback, Recommendations

2

Objective

3

ObjectiveDoes City Council recommend any additional changes or updates?

4

Current Park Rules

5

Current Park RulesProvide a system by which the greatest number of people may obtain the maximum satisfaction

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• Voluntary compliance

• Civil infraction or criminal misdemeanor

• Loss of park/facility use privileges

• Ejection from park area

• Subject to enforcement by Sammamish PD

Current Park RulesTitle 7: Parks & Recreation (Chapter 7.12 Park Rules)

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• General

• Administration

• Rules: Infractions

• Rules: Misdemeanors

• Penalties

• Enforcement

• Miscellaneous

Approach to Changes

8

Approach to ChangesWhat is the goal?

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• Provide clarity

• Create consistency with City, County, State and Federal laws

• Respond to current events and issues

• Communicate to the public

• Repeal/replace

• Organize content

• Update current language

• Add new topics

• Remove conflicting/redundant topics

Steps

Approach to ChangesDevelopment and review

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• Parks & Recreation Staff

• City Clerk’s Office

• Police Department

• King County Sheriff’s Office

• Community Development

• Legal Review

• Public Works

• WCIA

• LWSD

• Parks & Recreation Commission

• City Council

• Sammamish Residents

Overview of SMC Title 7A (Parks and Recreation)

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Overview of SMC Title 7A (Parks and Recreation)New Chapters

12

• Definitions

• Hours/conditions of operation

• Permits

• Use of facilities/buildings

• Controlled substances

• Park safety

• General rules

• Speed/travel

• Vehicles

• Electric/small motorized devices

• Trail use

• Boating and watercraft

• Camping

• Fishing

• Pets/animals

• Waste/litter

• Swimming

• Damage to property/wildlife

• Penalties

• Enforcement

• Miscellaneous

Significant Changes

13

Significant ChangesOverview

14

• Reduce redundancies by citing current laws (e.g. SMC 1.10.010: General penalties)

• Adopting as reference applicable RCWs, King County rules, federal laws

• Establish correct penalties for certain rules (infraction vs. misdemeanor)

• Establish new fine structure (bail schedule) for infractions (separate agenda item for Council to approve):

• $47 for the first violation

• $138 for every subsequent violation

Significant ChangesNew content

15

PRC Feedback

• Large groups

• Electric personal assistive mobility devices

• Motorized foot scooters

• Electric-assisted bicycles

• Toy motorized cars/trucks

Existing Signage

• Age limits for park equipment

• Prohibited items in spray parks

• Prohibited items on sports fields

• Time limits

• Fishing rules

• Fishing pots

• Dog park rules

Department Needs

• Unintended use

• Burning restrictions

• Freedom from discrimination

• Anchorage

Feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission

16

Feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission Topics

17

• Mountain Bikes

• Marijuana Use

• Drones (Unmanned Aircraft Systems)

• Toy Motorized Devices

• Electric & Small Motorized Mobility Devices

• Private Businesses

• Large Groups

• Incorporate into updated City Code? (Yes/No)

• If Yes

• All park sites?

• Limited park sites?

• Other regulations?

Feedback/guidance

Feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission Mountain Bikes

18

Established standard speed limits (15mph) for all types of travel, including bicycles.

Feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission Marijuana Use

19

Adopted as reference RCW 69.50.445 (Opening package of or consuming marijuana, useable marijuana, marijuana-infused products, or marijuana concentrates in view of general public or public place—Penalty).

Feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission Drones (Unmanned Aircraft Systems)

20

Incorporated into the definition of “aircraft”. Adopted as reference 49 USC Ch. 488 (Unmanned Aircraft Systems).

Feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission Toy Motorized Devices

21

Prohibit toy cars/trucks on unpaved trails and prohibit toy boats in associated marine areas.

Feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission Electric & Small Motorized Mobility Devices

22

Established standard speed limits (15mph) for all types of travel including e-bikes, electric and small motorized mobility devices.

Feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission Private Businesses

23

For-profit entities are prohibited from conducting private business.

Feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission Large Groups

24

Groups larger than 25 individuals may only be allowed by special use permit, unless permission is previously obtained through a rental reservation.

Feedback from Residents

25

Feedback from ResidentsQuestions to the public

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• Are there safety issues that occur in City parks that staff need to be aware of?

• Are there certain activities conducted by other members of the public that disrupt your enjoyment when visiting a City playground, sports field, beach, dog park, trail, etc.?

• Are there certain rules that interfere with your enjoyment when visiting a City park?

Top concerns• Off-leash dogs, park users disobeying dog leash laws

• Park users not wearing masks

• Dog waste

Timeline

27

Timeline

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City Code Revisions DueProject kick-off June 26, 2019Introduction to Parks & Recreation Commission September 4, 2019First presentation at Parks & Recreation Commission October 2, 2019Research, adjustments, and review by City departments/stakeholders December 15, 2020Second presentation to Parks & Recreation Commission January 6, 2021Public feedback February 16 – March 11, 2021Review/changes at City Council Study Session May 11, 2021Review/changes at City Council Study Session June 8, 2021 (tentative)Finalize City Code TBDAdoption during City Council Regular Meeting TBD

Questions, Feedback, Recommendations

29

Questions, Feedback, Recommendations

30

Does City Council recommend any additional changes or updates?

1

Title 7

PARKS AND RECREATION

Chapters:

7.12 Park Rules

2

Title 46

VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC

Chapters:

46.05 Model Traffic Ordinance

46.10 Speed Limits

46.12 Engine Compression Brakes

46.15 Vehicle Weight Limits

46.20 Motorized Foot Scooters and Other Vehicles

46.30 Stopping, Standing and Parking

46.40 Traffic Offenses

3

Chapter 46.20

MOTORIZED FOOT SCOOTERS AND OTHER VEHICLES

Sections:

46.20.010 Definition.

46.20.020 Duty to obey traffic control devices and rules of the road.

46.20.030 Unsafe use prohibited.

46.20.040 Prohibited areas.

46.20.050 Minimum age requirements.

46.20.060 Helmets required.

46.20.070 Lights required.

46.20.080 Noise restriction.

46.20.090 Parental responsibility.

46.20.100 Adoption by reference of Title 9 of the King County Health Code.

46.20.110 Penalties.

46.20.010 Definition.

(1) “Motorized foot scooter” means a device with no more than two 10-inch or smaller diameter

wheels that has handlebars, is designed to be stood or sat upon by the operator, and is powered

by an internal combustion engine or electric motor that is capable of propelling the device with

or without human propulsion, such as scooters or pocket bikes.

(2) For purposes of this chapter, a motor-driven cycle, a moped, and an electric-assisted bicycle,

a motorcycle, a power wheelchair, or an electric personal assistive mobility device.

(3) Motorized wheelchairs being utilized by persons with temporary or permanent disabilities are

specifically excluded from this chapter. (Ord. O2005-167 § 1)

46.20.020 Duty to obey traffic control devices and rules of the road.

(1) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, any person operating a motorized foot scooter, a

motorized vehicle not requiring a license to operate, or a vehicle powered by an electric motor

requiring a license to operate (hereafter referred to as “vehicle” or “vehicles”), shall obey all

rules of the road applicable to automobiles, bicycles, or pedestrians, as well as the instructions of

official traffic control signals, signs and other control devices applicable to vehicles, unless

otherwise directed by a police officer.

(2) It shall be unlawful to operate any vehicle on a public roadway other than as close as

practicable to the right-hand curb or the right edge of the roadway, as is safe, except while

preparing to make or while making a turning movement. (Ord. O2005-167 § 1)

46.20.030 Unsafe use prohibited.

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Vehicles shall not be ridden in a negligent or unsafe manner, but shall be operated with

reasonable regard for the safety of the operator and other persons, and in a manner to avoid

damage to real or personal property. For purposes of this section, to operate “in a negligent or

unsafe manner” means operation of a vehicle in such manner as to endanger or be likely to

endanger any person or property. (Ord. O2005-167 § 1)

46.20.040 Prohibited areas.

(1) Motorized foot scooters powered by an internal combustion engine are prohibited from being

operated:

(a) On sidewalks within the City limits;

(b) In City parks;

(c) On multiple use trails including bicycle paths, bikeways, equestrian trails, hiking trails and

recreation trails, except where such trails are specifically marked stating that such use is

permitted; and

(db) On any City street with a posted maximum speed limit greater than 25 miles per hour.

(2) Motorized foot scooters powered by an electric motor are prohibited from being operated:

(a) In City parks;

(b) On multiple use trails including bicycle paths, bikeways, equestrian trails, hiking trails and

recreation trails, except where such trails are specifically marked stating that such use is

permitted; and

(ca) On any City street with a posted maximum speed limit greater than 25 miles per hour. (Ord.

O2005-167 § 1)

46.20.050 Minimum age requirements.

No vehicle shall be operated on public property unless the operator is at least 12 years of age.

(Ord. O2005-167 § 1)

46.20.060 Helmets required.

Any person operating a vehicle, and any person riding as a passenger on such vehicle, upon any

public area in the City of Sammamish, shall wear an approved helmet designed for safety that

meets or exceeds the requirements of Standard Z-90.4 set by the American National Standards

Institute (ANSI) or the Snell Foundation, or a subsequent nationally recognized standard for

helmet performance as the City may adopt. The helmet shall be worn over the head and equipped

with either a neck or chinstrap that shall be fastened securely while such vehicle is in motion.

(Ord. O2005-167 § 1)

46.20.070 Lights required.

Every vehicle in use at any time from a half-hour after sunset to a half-hour before sunrise and at

any other time when, due to insufficient light or unfavorable atmospheric conditions, persons and

vehicles on the highway are not clearly discernible at a distance of 500 feet ahead shall be

equipped with and operate: (1) a lamp on the front which shall emit a white light visible from a

distance of at least 500 feet to the front; and (2) a red reflector on the rear, of a type approved by

the State Patrol, which shall be visible from all distances up to 500 feet to the rear when directly

in front of lawful lower beams of head lamps on a motor vehicle. A lamp emitting a red light

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visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear may be used in addition to the red reflector. A

light-emitting diode flashing taillight visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear may also be

used in addition to the red reflector. (Ord. O2005-167 § 1)

46.20.080 Noise restriction.

Operation of motorized foot scooters is subject to the provisions Chapter 8.15 SMC, Public

Disturbance Noise. (Ord. O2005-167 § 1)

46.20.090 Parental responsibility.

A parent who has custody of any child under the age of 18 years and the guardian of any ward

under the age of 18 years shall not authorize or knowingly permit any such child or ward to

violate any of the provisions of this section. (Ord. O2005-167 § 1)

46.20.100 Adoption by reference of Title 9 of the King County Health Code.

Title 9 of the King County Health Code, entitled “Bicycle Helmets,” is hereby adopted by

reference and incorporated herein. (Ord. O2005-167 § 1)

46.20.110 Penalties.

(1) Violation of any provision of this chapter shall be a civil infraction with a penalty of $50.00

for each violation. The disposition of an infraction issued under this chapter shall follow the

procedures adopted under WAC 308-330-700 and the applicable sections of Chapter 46.63

RCW.

(2) When a violation of any provision of this chapter by a child under the age of 16 years occurs,

the City may impound the vehicle if, in the discretion of the officer, there is not a parent who has

custody of the child or guardian of the child available to whom the vehicle can be released and

taking custody of the vehicle is: (a) reasonably necessary to ensure compliance with this chapter;

or (b) reasonably necessary to protect persons or property. Thereafter, the vehicle shall be

released to the parent or guardian upon written request. (Ord. O2005-167 § 1)

6

Title 7A

PARKS AND RECREATION

Chapters:

7A.01 Definitions

7A.02 Hours and Conditions of Operations

7A.03 Permits for Individuals, Community Groups and Special Use

7A.04 Use of Park Facilities and Buildings

7A.05 Controlled Substances

7A.06 Park Safety

7A.07 General Rules

7A.08 Speed and Travel

7A.09 Vehicles

7A.10 Electric and Small Motorized Devices

7A.11 Trail Use

7A.12 Boating and Watercraft

7A.13 Camping

7A.14 Fishing

7A.15 Pets and Animals

7A.16 Waste, Refuse and Litter

7A.17 Swimming

7A.18 Damage to City Property and Wildlife

7A.19 Penalties

7A.20 Enforcement

7A.21 Miscellaneous Provisions

7

Chapter 7A.01

DEFINITIONS

Sections:

7A.01.010 Definitions.

7A.01.010 Definitions.

Whenever used in this chapter the following terms shall be defined as herein indicated:

(1) “Aircraft” means any machine or device designed to travel through the air including, but not

limited to: airplanes, helicopters, unmanned aircraft systems, drones, model aircraft, and hot air

balloons.

(2) “Alcoholic beverages” as defined within the following statute of the State of Washington is

adopted by reference, now in effect and as subsequently amended: RCW 66.04.010.

(3) “Anchorage” means anchoring, mooring, or otherwise securing any vessel or watercraft to

the bed of any waters.

(4) “Associated marine area” means any water area within 100 feet of any City of Sammamish

open space, trail, park area or park facility such as a dock, pier, float, buoy, log boom, object or

other property which is under the ownership, management, or control of the Department. This

definition shall not apply to private property.

(5) “Boat” means any contrivance up to 65 feet in length overall and is used, or capable of being

used, as a means of transportation on water.

(6) “Camper” means a motorized vehicle containing sleeping and/or housekeeping

accommodations. This definition may also include a pickup truck with camper, a van-type body,

a converted bus, or any similar type vehicle.

(7) “Camping” means erecting or arranging a tent, shelter, bedding or conducting any activity

with the purpose of remaining overnight. Camping may include parking a trailer, camper, or

other vehicle for the purpose of remaining overnight.

(8) “Campsite” means designated camping sites which are designated for the use of tents,

campers, or any other method of camping and have no water and/or electrical facilities available

for hookup to a trailer, tent or a camper.

(9) “City of Sammamish open space, trail or park area” means any property or area under the

ownership, management, or control of the Department.

(10) “City of Sammamish park facility”, for the purpose of this Chapter, means any building,

structure, field, lodge, pavilion, shelter, or equipment operated by the City of Sammamish

Department of Parks and Recreation.

https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=66.04.010

8

(11) “Department” means the City of Sammamish Department of Parks and Recreation.

(12) “Director” means Director of the City of Sammamish Department of Parks and Recreation

or his or her designee.

(13) “Discrimination” as defined within the following statute of the State of Washington is


(14) "Electric-assisted bicycle" as defined within the following statute of the State of Washington

is adopted by reference, now in effect and as subsequently amended: RCW 46.04.169.

(15) "Electric personal assistive mobility device" as defined within the following statute of the

State of Washington is adopted by reference, now in effect and as subsequently amended: RCW

46.04.1695.

(16) “Emergency” as defined in the Sammamish Municipal Code is adopted by reference, now in

effect and as subsequently amended: SMC 2.70.020.

(17) “Floatation device” means a buoyancy device, life preserver, buoyant vest, ring or cushion.

This definition applies to any device designed by the manufacturer to float a person in the water,

regardless of shape or size.

(18) "Marijuana" as defined within the following statute of the State of Washington is adopted

by reference, now in effect and as subsequently amended: RCW 69.50.101.

(19) "Moped" as defined within the following statute of the State of Washington is adopted by

reference, now in effect and as subsequently amended: RCW 46.04.304.

(20) “Motor powered craft or watercraft” means any description of watercraft on, in or under the

water, other than a seaplane, that is equipped with motor propulsion machinery, whether inboard

or outboard and whether electric or fuel operated, and that is used or capable of being used as a

means of transportation on water. This definition shall include, but is not limited to: motorboats,

speedboats, powerboats, ski boats, jet skis, and any form of submersible watercraft. Unless

equipped with motor propulsion machinery, this definition shall not apply to nonmotorized

watercraft, including but not limited to: canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, row boats, inner tubes, air

mattresses, sailboards, stand-up paddle boards, small rafts or floatation devices, or toys

customarily used by swimmers.

(21) “Motor vehicle” means any self-propelled device capable of being moved upon a road, and

in, upon, or by which any persons or property may be transported or drawn. This definition shall

include, but is not be limited to: automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, jeeps, four-wheel drive

vehicles, and snowmobiles. This definition shall apply whether or not the device can be legally

operated upon the public highways.



https://app.leg.wa.gov/Rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.04.1695

https://app.leg.wa.gov/Rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.04.1695

https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/Sammamish/?Sammamish02/Sammamish0270.html#2.70.020

https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=69.50.101


9

(22) “Motorized foot scooter” as defined within the following statute of the State of Washington

is adopted by reference, now in effect and as subsequently amended: RCW 46.04.336.

(23) “Motorized vehicles” means any form of transportation powered by an internal combustion

or electric motor. This includes, but is not limited to: automobiles, golf carts, mopeds and

motorcycles. This section shall not apply to wheelchairs powered by electric motors, electric

personal mobility devices, motorized foot scooters, electric-assisted bicycles, toy motorized cars

or trucks, or authorized maintenance, police or emergency vehicles.

(24) “Person” means all persons, groups, firms, partnerships, corporations, clubs, and all

associations or combination of persons whenever acting for themselves or as an agent, servant, or

employee.

(25) “Rocket” means any device containing a combustible substance which when ignited propels

the device forward.

(26) “Service animal” as defined within the following statute of the State of Washington is


(27) “Trail” means any path, track, or right-of-way designed for use by pedestrians, bicycles,

equestrians, or other nonmotorized modes of transportation.

(28) “Trailer” means a towed vehicle which contains sleeping or housekeeping accommodations.

(29) “Trailer site” means a designated camping site which has water and/or electrical facilities

available for hookup, and which is designed for the use of persons with trailers or campers.



10

Chapter 7A.02

HOURS AND CONDITIONS OF OPERATIONS

Sections:

7A.02.010 Park facility hours.

7A.02.020 Park hours.

7A.02.030 Presence in parks during hours of closure.

7A.02.010 Park facility hours.

Activities for groups using City of Sammamish park facilities Sundays through Thursdays shall

open at 8:00 a.m. and cease at 10:00 p.m. unless otherwise approved in the use permit. Activities

for groups using City of Sammamish park facilities Fridays and Saturdays shall open at 8:00 a.m.

and cease at 12:00 a.m. unless otherwise approved in the use permit.

7A.02.020 Park hours.

City of Sammamish open spaces, trails, park areas and associated marine areas are open from

dawn to thirty (30) minutes after sunset, unless open for scheduled or reserved recreational

activities.

7A.02.030 Presence in parks during hours of closure.

No person may enter or be present in a City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, facility

or associated marine area during hours of closure, except persons using City of Sammamish park

facilities as part of an event authorized by the Department. Any person violating provisions of

this rule shall have committed a criminal misdemeanor.

11

Chapter 7A.03

PERMITS FOR INDIVIDUALS, COMMUNITY GROUPS AND SPECIAL USE

Sections:

7A.03.010 Permits for community groups in park facilities.

7A.03.020 Special use permits.

7A.03.030 Cancellation of permits.

7A.03.040 Liability.

7A.03.050 Liability insurance.

7A.03.060 Religious services, group rallies or assemblies.

7A.03.070 Large groups.

7A.03.080 Rockets.

7A.03.090 Sale of goods, services or conducting private business.

7A.03.100 Solicitation.

7A.03.110 Distribution or posting printed materials or signs.

7A.03.120 Use of any loudspeaker, sound amplification equipment or other amplifying device.

7A.03.130 Unintended use.

7A.03.140 Organized activities in parking lots and roadways.

7A.03.010 Permits for community groups in park facilities.

The Director may grant permits to community groups to meet or conduct activities in City of

Sammamish park facilities if those buildings, portions of buildings, or facilities are not otherwise

required by the Department. Permits may be granted in the form of a rental or reservation. A fee

may be charged according to the City’s current adopted fee schedule.

7A.03.020 Special use permits.

Groups which desire to use City of Sammamish open spaces, trails, park areas, park facilities, or

associated marine areas may be granted special use permits by the Director. Special use permits

may be charged a fee and, where appropriate, special conditions of use may be established by the

Director and so noted on the special use permit. A schedule of the charges for special services in

City of Sammamish park facilities are established by the adoption of the City Council in the

City’s fee schedule.

7A.03.030 Cancellation of permits.

The Director reserves the right to cancel a permit at any time or for any reason deemed

necessary. Notice of the Director’s cancellation shall be given at least 24 hours in advance.

7A.03.040 Liability.

Persons using City of Sammamish open spaces, trails, park areas, park facilities, or associated

marine areas by permit will be required to protect, save and hold the City, its elected and

appointed officials, volunteers and employees while acting within the scope of their duties

harmless from and against any and all claims, demands and causes of action of any kind or

character, including the cost of defense thereof, arising in favor of a person or group’s members

or employees or third-parties on account of any action including but not limited to bodily

injuries, death or damage to property arising out of the use of premises, or in any way arising out

12

of the acts or omissions of the person, group and/or its agents, employees or representatives in a

form acceptable to the City, except for those injuries or damages caused by the sole negligence

of the City.

7A.03.050 Liability insurance.

(1) During all periods of use, persons using City of Sammamish open spaces, trails, park areas,

park facilities, or associated marine areas by permit shall, except when a waiver is obtained from

the Department, obtain and maintain liability insurance, acceptable to the City, to protect against

claims for injuries to persons or damage to property which may arise from or in connection with

the use of the premises and the activities of the user and his or her guests, representatives,

volunteers and employees with limits of liability as established by the City. The user’s insurance

shall name the City as additional insured.

(2) Persons shall provide a Certificate of Insurance, or, upon written request of the City, a

duplicate of the policy, as evidence of the insurance protection provided. This insurance shall not

be cancelled or reduced without prior written notice to the City at least 30 days in advance of the

cancellation.

7A.03.060 Religious services, group rallies or assemblies.

Religious services or group rallies may be permitted in City of Sammamish park areas where

park facilities and equipment are adequate, and where such activities will not conflict in any way

with normal park usage. To avoid conflict, permission for such activities must be obtained in

advance from the Director following approval of a special use permit. Permission for use of

loudspeakers or amplified sound by groups must be obtained in advance. Group services or

rallies that are unpermitted or not approved pursuant to this rule is a civil offense.

7A.03.070 Large groups.

The use of City of Sammamish open space, trails, park areas, park facilities or associated marine

areas for groups larger than 25 individuals may only be allowed by special use permit issued by

the Director, unless permission was previously obtained through a rental reservation for the use

of a City of Sammamish park facility. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have

committed a civil offense.

7A.03.080 Rockets.

No person may launch or fly rockets in City of Sammamish open spaces, trails, park areas, park

facilities, or associated marine areas except in areas specifically designated and/or posted for that

purpose. All persons desiring to launch or fly rockets must obtain a special use permit to do so

from the Director. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil

offense.

7A.03.090 Sale of goods, services or conducting private business.

The use of City of Sammamish open spaces, trails, park areas, park facilities or associated

marine areas for financial gain may be allowed only through concession contracts secured by the

City’s competitive bid process, negotiated concession contracts, or by special use permit issued

by the Director. For-profit entities are prohibited from conducting private business in any City of

13

Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility, or associated marine area. Any person

violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.03.100 Solicitation.

No person may solicit, sell, or peddle any goods, services, wares, merchandise, food, liquids, or

edibles for human consumption in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park

facility, or associated marine area, except by concession contract or by special use permit issued

by the Director. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.03.110 Distribution or posting printed materials or signs.

No person may distribute or post any printed materials or signs in any City of Sammamish open

space, trail, park area, park facility, or associated marine area, except by concession contract or

by special use permit issued by the Director. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall

have committed a civil offense.

7A.03.120 Use of any loudspeaker, sound amplification equipment or other amplifying

device.

(1) No person may use any loudspeaker or other device used to amplify a person’s voice in any

City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility, or associated marine area, except

by concession contract or by special use permit issued by the Director.

(2) No person may use, operate, or play any radio, tape player, television, musical instrument,

record player or any other machine or device producing or reproducing sound at a volume that is

audible at a distance over 30 feet within any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area,

park facility, or associated marine area, except by concession contract or by special use permit

issued by the Director.

(3) Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.03.130 Unintended use.

No person may participate in any activity, practice, or play any game or sport in a City of

Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility, or associated marine area that conflicts

with normal, intended park usage, except by special use permit issued by the Director. Park users

must obey all posted signage that prohibits specific use or activities. Any person violating

provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.03.140 Organized activities in parking lots and roadways.

Organized activities that interfere with traffic and parking are prohibited in parking lots and

roadways of any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility, or associated

marine area unless allowed through an approved special use permit issued by the Director. Any

person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

14

Chapter 7A.04

USE OF PARK FACILITIES AND BUILDINGS

Sections:

7A.04.010 Storage of equipment.

7A.04.020 Responsibility for City equipment.

7A.04.030 Failure to conform or misuse of equipment.

7A.04.040 Cleanup.

7A.04.010 Storage of equipment.

Persons using City of Sammamish park facilities are not entitled to any storage space for

equipment necessary for their programs. If temporary storage is available, permitted and

documented by the Department, the City of Sammamish shall not be held responsible for loss or

damage.

7A.04.020 Responsibility for City equipment.

City equipment shall not be loaned to any non-City person, group or organization without prior

written permission from the Director.

7A.04.030 Failure to conform or misuse of equipment.

The misuse of a City of Sammamish park facility or the failure to conform with these

regulations, the instructions of Department employees, or the conditions of a permit is sufficient

reason to deny any future permit.

7A.04.040 Cleanup.

All persons must leave City of Sammamish park facilities in a condition considered satisfactory

to the Director. No person may conduct activities causing extra custodial work unless a previous

agreement has been made to pay for such work and is stated in the special use permit. At the sole

discretion of the Department, damage deposits may be kept by the Department according to the

level of custodial or staff work required to return the City of Sammamish park facility to

satisfactory condition.

15

Chapter 7A.05

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

Sections:

7A.05.010 Alcoholic beverages.

7A.05.020 Intoxication.

7A.05.030 Underage drinking of alcoholic beverages.

7A.05.040 Tobacco and related products.

7A.05.050 Controlled substances.

7A.05.060 Marijuana use.

7A.05.010 Alcoholic beverages.

It is unlawful to sell, open or possess alcoholic beverages in an open container, or consume any

alcoholic beverage in a City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility or

associated marine area except in the following designated areas subject to written approval by

the Director and under the following conditions:

(1) The sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages is permissible at designated indoor and

outdoor locations within any City of Sammamish park area; provided, that the activities conform

to the requirements of the Washington Liquor Control and Cannabis Board under Title 66 RCW,

now in effect and as subsequently amended; and

(2) The serving and consumption of alcoholic beverages shall be confined to the designated

location; and

(3) Groups applying for special use permits for activities at which the consumption of alcoholic

beverages is intended must meet the requirements of state law with respect to liquor permits as a

precondition. During the course of the activity, the state liquor permit must be clearly displayed

on site.

The Director shall designate the locations where the activity is permissible. Any person violating

provisions of this rule shall have committed a criminal misdemeanor.

7A.05.020 Intoxication.

Being or remaining in, or loitering about in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area,

facility, or associated marine area while in a state of intoxication is prohibited. Any person

violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a criminal misdemeanor.

7A.05.030 Underage drinking of alcoholic beverages.

It is unlawful for any person under the age of twenty‑one years to acquire in any manner,

consume, or have in the person's possession any intoxicating liquor as defined by RCW

66.04.200.

7A.05.040 Tobacco and related products.

https://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=66

https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/dispo.aspx?cite=66.04.200

https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/dispo.aspx?cite=66.04.200

16

No person in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility or associated

marine area may light or vapor cigarettes, electric cigarettes, cigars, hookah pipes, or pipes of

any kind. No person may use any tobacco products including, but not limited to, chewing

tobacco. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a criminal

misdemeanor.

7A.05.050 Controlled substances.

The following provisions in the Sammamish Municipal Code are adopted by reference, now in

effect and as subsequently amended: SMC 69.05.

7A.05.060 Marijuana use.

The following statute of the State of Washington is adopted by reference, now in effect and as

subsequently amended: RCW 69.50.445.



17

Chapter 7A.06

PARK SAFETY

Sections:

7A.06.010 Ice.

7A.06.020 Fireworks.

7A.06.030 Firearms and dangerous weapons.

7A.06.040 Age limits for park equipment and play structures.

7A.06.050 Prohibited items and activities in spray parks.

7A.06.010 Ice.

No person may go out onto ice in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park

facility, or associate marine area, except in areas specifically designated for that purpose. This

includes, but is not limited to: lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, and other bodies of water. Any


7A.06.020 Fireworks.



7A.06.030 Firearms and dangerous weapons.

The following statute of the State of Washington is adopted by reference, now in effect and as

subsequently amended: Chapter 9.41 RCW.

7A.06.040 Age limits for park equipment and play structures.

Park users must obey any posted age limits for park equipment and play structures.

7A.06.050 Prohibited items and activities in spray parks.

Park users must follow all posted spray park rules. Park users may not enter a spray park with

pets, food, drinks or glass containers. Users may not run, climb on structures, or place any item

on spray heads or area while in the spray park. Park users may not use the spray park while sick.


https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=9.41

18

Chapter 7A.07

GENERAL RULES

Sections:

7A.07.010 Loitering in restrooms.

7A.07.020 Compliance with signage.

7A.07.030 Washing of food waste, clothes or animals.

7A.07.040 Burning restrictions.

7A.07.050 Clothing.

7A.07.060 Aircraft.

7A.07.070 Prohibited items on sports fields.

7A.07.080 Time limit.

7A.07.090 Public disturbance (noise).

7A.07.100 Freedom from discrimination.

7A.07.010 Loitering in restrooms.

Loitering in restrooms is prohibited in City of Sammamish open spaces, trails, park areas, or park

facilities. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.07.020 Compliance with signage.

The Director is authorized to post signage in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area,

park facility, or associated marine area. All persons must comply with signage posted in any City

of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility, or associated marine area. Any person


7A.07.030 Washing of food waste, clothes or animals.

No person may clean fish or other food, wash any personal or household clothing or articles, or

wash any dog or other animal, except at designated areas. Any person violating provisions of

this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.07.040 Burning restrictions.

It is unlawful for any person to build any fire in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park

area, park facility, or associate marine area, except at designated areas. Any person violating


7A.07.050 Clothing.

Clothing sufficient to conform to community standards or posted signage shall be worn at all

times.

7A.07.060 Aircraft.

(1) No aircraft may land or take off from any body of water or land area in a City of Sammamish

open space, trail, park area, park facility, or associate marine area, except aircraft used to

transport injured persons, evacuees, medical personnel, or public officials in the event of an

accident, disaster, or emergency.

19

(2) No person shall be deemed to have violated the provisions of this section in the event of a

bona fide emergency, provided the owner of the aircraft submits a written statement explaining

the circumstances of the emergency to the Director within 72 hours of an emergency take off or

landing.

(3) With regard to unmanned aircraft systems, the following chapter in the United States Code is

adopted as reference, now in effect and as subsequently amended: 49 USC Ch. 448.

(4) Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a criminal misdemeanor.

7A.07.070 Prohibited items on sports fields.

No person may enter a sports field with gum, seeds (sunflower, etc.) or glass containers.

7A.07.080 Time limit.

Park users must obey any posted time limit requirements for park equipment. Any person


7A.07.090 Public disturbance (noise).



7A.07.100 Freedom from discrimination.

Any individual or organization using City of Sammamish open spaces, trails, park areas, park

facilities or associated marine areas through a concession contract secured by the City’s

competitive bid process, a negotiated concession contract, or by special use permit must comply

with the following statute of the State of Washington which is adopted by reference, now in

effect and as subsequently amended: RCW 49.60.030.

Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a criminal misdemeanor.

https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title49/subtitle7/partA/subpart3/chapter448&edition=prelim


https://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=49.60.030

20

Chapter 7A.08

SPEED AND TRAVEL

Sections:

7A.08.010 Speed limits.

7A.08.020 Traveling in a negligent manner.

7A.08.010 Speed limits.

(1) No person may travel within any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, or park

facility at a speed greater than 15 miles per hour. No person may travel at a speed greater than is

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential

hazards then existing. In no event may a person travel at a speed which endangers the safety of

persons, property, or wildlife. This section shall apply to all forms of movement or transportation

in a City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, or park facility including but not limited to:

motorized vehicles, non-motorized vehicles, foot, bicycles of any kind, horse, skateboard, roller

skates, electric personal assistive mobility devices, motorized foot scooters, or any mobility

device that assists an individual with movement or transportation.

(2) No person may travel within any City of Sammamish associated marine area at a speed

greater than 8 miles per hour. No person may travel at a speed greater than is reasonable and

prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.

In no event may a person travel at a speed which endangers the safety of persons, property, or

wildlife. This section shall apply to all forms of movement or transportation in a City of

Sammamish associated marine area including but not limited to: boats, motor powered craft,

watercraft, or any mobility device that assists an individual with movement or transportation.


7A.08.020 Traveling in a negligent manner.

No person may travel within any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility,

or associated marine area in a negligent manner. For the purposes of this section “travel in a

negligent manner” shall be construed to mean any form of travel in such a manner as to endanger

or be likely to endanger any persons or property. Any person violating provisions of this rule

shall have committed a criminal misdemeanor.

21

Chapter 7A.09

VEHICLES

Sections:

7A.09.010 Parking.

7A.09.020 Operation of vehicles.

7A.09.030 Washing of vehicles.

7A.09.040 Commercial vehicles.

7A.09.010 Parking.

No operator of any automobile, trailer, camper, boat trailer, or other vehicle may park such

vehicle in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, or park facility except where

clearly designated. Exceptions are allowed where the operator is using the area for a designated

recreational purpose and the vehicle is parked either in the designated parking area or in another

area with the permission of the Director. No person may park or abandon a vehicle in any City of

Sammamish open space, trail, park area, or park facility after closing except persons using park

facilities as part of an event authorized by the Director. In addition to the penalties found in SMC

7A.19, now in effect and as subsequently amended, any vehicle found parked in violation may be

towed away at the owner’s expense. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have


7A.09.020 Operation of vehicles.

No person may operate any motor vehicle on a City of Sammamish trail unless such trail has

been specifically designated and posted for such use. No person may operate a motor vehicle

within the boundaries of a City of Sammamish open space or park area. Exceptions to these

provisions include roads, streets, highways, parking lots, parking areas, or where otherwise

permitted by proper posting. This section shall not apply to emergency vehicles, maintenance

vehicles, or construction vehicles authorized by the Director. Any person violating provisions of


7A.09.030 Washing of vehicles.

No person may clean or wash any automobile or other vehicle in any City of Sammamish open

space, trail, park area, park facility, or associated marine area except in areas specifically

designated for that use. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil

offense.

7A.09.040 Commercial vehicles.

No person may cause a truck or other vehicle while being used for commercial purposes to enter

upon, use, or traverse any portion of any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park

facility, associated marine area, or park road except by permission of the Director. Provisions of

this section shall not apply to City roads or state highways. Any person violating provisions of


22

Chapter 7A.10

ELECTRIC AND SMALL MOTORIZED DEVICES

Sections:

7A.10.010 Electric personal assistive mobility devices.

7A.10.020 Motorized foot scooters.

7A.10.030 Electric-assisted bicycles.

7A.10.040 Toy motorized boats.

7A.10.050 Toy motorized cars or trucks.

7A.10.010 Electric personal assistive mobility devices.


effect and as subsequently amended: SMC 7A.08.010 and SMC 7A.08.020.

7A.10.020 Motorized foot scooters.


effect and as subsequently amended: SMC 7A.08.010 and SMC 7A.08.020.

7A.10.030 Electric-assisted bicycles.

(1) The following provisions in the Sammamish Municipal Code are adopted by reference, now

in effect and as subsequently amended: SMC 7A.08.010 and SMC 7A.08.020.

(2) The following statute of the State of Washington is adopted by reference, now in effect and

as subsequently amended: RCW 46.61.710.

7A.10.040 Toy motorized boats.

The use or operation of remote-controlled motorized boats in any City of Sammamish associated

marine area is prohibited. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a

civil offense.

7A.10.050 Toy motorized cars or trucks.

The use or operation of remote-controlled motorized cars or trucks on a City of Sammamish

unpaved trail is prohibited. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a

civil offense.


23

Chapter 7A.11

TRAIL USE

Sections:

7A.11.010 Motorized vehicles.

7A.11.020 Non-motorized use.

7A.11.030 Traffic control devices.

7A.11.040 Interference with trails.

7A.11.050 Soft surface trails, sensitive areas and boardwalks.

7A.11.010 Motorized vehicles.

No motorized vehicles may be allowed on City of Sammamish trails. Any person violating


7A.11.020 Non-motorized use.

Regional trails, local trail corridors, and paved pathways are open to all non-motorized users

unless otherwise designated and posted. Park users must obey all trail restrictions for non-

motorized use posted at park entrances, trailheads or individual trails. The following provisions

in the Sammamish Municipal Code are adopted by reference, now in effect and as subsequently

amended: SMC 7A.08.010 and SMC 7A.08.020.

7A.11.030 Traffic control devices.

Every person traveling on a City of Sammamish trail must obey the instructions of any official

traffic control device or police officer. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have

committed a criminal misdemeanor.

7A.11.040 Interference with trails.

No person may place, deposit, or otherwise cause any structure, device, thing or item to threaten

or endanger any portion of a City of Sammamish trail. It is unlawful to obstruct or create a

hazard that establishes a danger for a person traveling on a trail in any manner. This section shall

not apply to employees of the City of Sammamish in the performance of their duties or to

persons acting pursuant to written direction of the Director. Any person violating provisions of


7A.11.050 Soft surface trails, sensitive areas and boardwalks.

Pedestrians and equestrians are permitted on all maintained soft surface trails unless otherwise

posted and designated. No person may use or operate a bicycle of any kind, electric personal

mobility device, motorized foot scooter, toy motorized cars or trucks, or any electric or small

motorized device on a maintained soft surface trail, in a sensitive area, or on a boardwalk. The

following provisions in the Sammamish Municipal Code are adopted by reference, now in effect

and as subsequently amended: SMC 7A.08.010 and SMC 7A.08.020.

24

Chapter 7A.12

BOATING AND WATERCRAFT

Sections:

7A.12.010 Boating regulations

7A.12.020 Occupancy and overnight moorage

7A.12.030 Anchorage

7A.12.040 Operating watercraft in swimming areas

7A.12.050 Designated areas for landing, launching, docking or operating

7A.12.060 Tandem moorage

7A.12.070 Moorage in swimming areas

7A.12.080 Commercial watercraft

7A.12.090 Use of marine heads

7A.12.010 Boating regulations.


effect and as subsequently amended: SMC 12.05.010.

7A.12.020 Occupancy and overnight moorage.

Continuous occupancy of a City of Sammamish park area or associated marine area by mooring,

anchoring, docking, or berthing a boat or other object by the same person or group is limited to

park hours. No person shall moor, anchor, dock or berth a boat or other object overnight in a City

of Sammamish park area or associated marine area unless the area has been designated for such

use or permitted by the Director. In addition to the penalties in Chapter 7A.20, now in effect and

as subsequently amended, any boat found to be in violation of this chapter may be removed at

the owner’s expense. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil

offense.

7A.12.030 Anchorage.

No owner or operator of any vessel or watercraft may anchor, moor, or otherwise secure such

vessel or watercraft to the bed of any waters. Exceptions include moorage to a public dock in a

manner consistent with any posted regulations, anchorage or moorage necessary because of an

emergency situation, or when given prior written permission by the Director. Any person


7A.12.040 Operating watercraft in swimming areas.

Operating any watercraft is prohibited in designated swimming areas. This section applies to, but

is not limited to: canoes, kayaks, paddle boats and row boats. Any person violating provisions of


7A.12.050 Designated areas for landing, launching, docking or operating.

In the interests of safe navigation and the protection of life and property and consistent with

SMC 12.05.010, now in effect and as subsequently amended, boat launching is permitted in

designated areas only. No person may land, launch, dock or operate any motorized watercraft in

any City park area or associated marine area except in locations specifically designated and/or



25

marked for that purpose and consistent with this code. This section shall not apply to the

transportation of injured persons, evacuees, medical personnel, or public officials in the event of

an accident, disaster, or emergency. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have


7A.12.060 Tandem moorage.

No more than three boats or other objects may be tied or rafted together when docked or berthed

adjacent to a dock in a City of Sammamish park area or associated marine area. Any person


7A.12.070 Moorage in swimming areas.

No person or persons may moor, dock, or berth a boat or other watercraft, whether motorized or

nonmotorized, to a log boom or float line which delineates a swimming area in a City of

Sammamish park area or associated marine area except that watercraft, whether motorized or

non-motorized, may moor, dock or berth on the southern side of the south dock at Sammamish

Landing Park and on either side of the north dock at Sammamish Landing Park, consistent with

this code. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.12.080 Commercial watercraft.

Use of associated marine areas by commercial watercraft is prohibited. For the purpose of this

rule “commercial watercraft” means watercraft used for any commercial purpose. This section

shall not apply to commercial watercraft operated within the terms of a concession lease

approved by the Director. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a

civil offense.

7A.12.090 Use of marine heads.

No person may use or flush any marine head which when flushed emits its contents directly into

the waters of a lake, river, or any other water area. No person may cause any human or animal

waste to be dumped into the waters when docked or berthed adjacent to a dock in a City of

Sammamish park area or associated marine area. Any person violating provisions of this rule

shall have committed a criminal misdemeanor.

26

Chapter 7A.13

CAMPING

Sections:

7A.13.010 No camping allowed.

7A.13.010 No camping allowed.

No person may camp in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility or

associated marine area. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil

offense.

27

Chapter 7A.14

FISHING

Sections:

7A.14.010 Game fish

7A.14.020 Shellfish and food fish

7A.14.030 Posted fishing rules

7A.14.040 Fishing pots

7A.14.010 Game fish.

All laws, rules and regulations of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife relating to

season, limits, and methods of fishing are applicable to fishing for game fish in City of

Sammamish park areas and associated marine areas. No person may fish for or possess any fish

taken from any dam, dike, bridge, dock, boat launch, or beach, which is posted with a sign

prohibiting fishing. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil

offense.

7A.14.020 Shellfish and food fish.

All laws, rules and regulations of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife relating to

season, limits, and methods of taking are applicable to the taking of shellfish or food fish in City

of Sammamish park areas and associated marine areas, and in addition to such laws, the

Department may, upon its finding and for good cause, close certain City of Sammamish park

areas and associated marine areas to the taking of shellfish for specific periods of time. Such

closed areas shall be posted with appropriate signs. Any person violating provisions of this rule

shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.14.030 Posted fishing rules.

Parks users must obey all posted rules for fishing in City of Sammamish park areas or associated

marine areas. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.14.040 Fishing pots.

No person may secure or attach a fishing pot used for the harvest of shellfish or fish to a park

dock within a City of Sammamish park area or associated marine area. Any person violating


28

Chapter 7A.15

PETS AND ANIMALS

Sections:

7A.15.010 Pets allowed in park facilities.

7A.15.020 Dog leash requirements.

7A.15.030 Animal waste removal.

7A.15.070 Dog park rules.

7A.15.080 Damage and disturbance by dogs, pets or domestic animals.

7A.15.090 Horseback riding.

7A.15.100 Animal control.

7A.15.010 Pets allowed in park facilities.

Dogs, pets or domestic animals are not permitted on any designated swimming beach, athletic

field, picnic shelter area or play area in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area,

facility or associated marine area unless specifically permitted by posting of the Department.

This section shall not apply to service animals. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall

have committed a civil offense.

7A.15.020 Dog leash requirements.

(1) It is unlawful for any person to allow or permit any animal under their control to run at large

in any park or enter any designated swimming area located therein. Provided, dogs may be

allowed off-leash in designated off-leash dog parks, or in specific portions of parks designated as

off-leash, or in designated parks during park hours that have been specifically designated as off-

leash hours, so long as the dog is under control of the owner or handler.

(2) In permissible areas only, dogs, pets or other domestic animals must be kept on a leash no

greater than 16 feet in length and must be under control at all times.

(3) This section shall not apply where the dogs are engaged in lawful competition sanctioned by

a nationally recognized body, working dogs engaged in sanctioned search and rescue activities,

or are in city-designated off-leash dog parks.

(4) No person may permit any dog or other pet to enter into a City of Sammamish open space,

trail, or park area designated and posted by the Director as a preserve or place prohibited to dogs

or pets.


7A.15.030 Animal waste removal.

Any person whose dog or other pet is in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area,

park facility or associate marine area is responsible for the conduct of the animal and for

disposing feces in designated receptacles. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have


29

7A.15.040 Dog park rules.

Dog owners and handlers must obey any posted rules for dog parks, including but not limited to:

weight and size requirements, behavior, vaccinations, licenses, number of dogs, and health

requirements. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.15.050 Damage and disturbance by dogs, pets or domestic animals.

No person may allow their dog, pet, or domestic animal to capture, tease, annoy, harass, disturb,

strike, mutilate, injure or damage any park user, pet, domestic animal or wildlife. No person may

permit his or her dog or other pet or domestic animal to bark continuously or otherwise disturb

the peace and tranquility of any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility or

associated marine area. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil

offense.

7A.15.060 Horseback riding.

Horses are permitted on City trails unless otherwise posted and designated. Horses may be

permitted in other City of Sammamish park areas that are specifically posted to permit such

activity. Horses are not be permitted in any associated marine area, designated swimming area,

or picnic area. No person may allow a horse or other animal to stand unattended or insecurely

tied. No person may ride any horse or other animal in such a manner that could cause physical

harm to any person. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil

offense.

7A.15.070 Animal control.

The followings provision in the Sammamish Municipal Code are adopted by reference, now in



30

Chapter 7A.16

WASTE, REFUSE AND LITTER

Sections:

7A.16.010 Littering.

7A.16.020 Outside, household or commercial waste.

7A.16.030 Waste from vehicles.

7A.16.040 Dumping in water.

7A.16.010 Littering.

No person may leave, deposit, drop or scatter bottles, broken glass, ashes, food, waste paper,

cans, garbage, refuse, waste or rubbish in a City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park

facility or associated marine area, except in a garbage can or other receptacle designated for such

purposes. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.16.020 Outside, household or commercial waste.

No person may deposit any outside, household or commercial garbage, refuse, waste, or rubbish

which is brought in from any private property. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall

have committed a criminal misdemeanor.

7A.16.030 Waste from vehicles.

No person may drain or dump refuse or waste from any trailer, camper, automobile, or other

vehicle, except in designated disposal areas in any City of Sammamish park area or park facility.

Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have committed a criminal misdemeanor.

7A.16.040 Dumping in water.

No person may pollute or in any way contaminate by dumping or otherwise depositing any waste

or refuse of any kind, including human and bodily waste, into any stream, river, lake or other

body of water running in, through, or adjacent to, any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park

area, park facility, or associated marine area. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall

have committed a criminal misdemeanor.

31

Chapter 7A.17

SWIMMING

Sections:

7A.17.010 Obey rules.

7A.17.020 Designated areas only.

7A.17.030 Floatation devices.

7A.17.040 False alarm of drowning prohibited.

7A.17.050 Swimming, sunbathing and scuba diving in boat launches prohibited.

7A.17.060 Interfering with lifeguard duties.

7A.17.010 Obey rules.

Swimmers must obey all rules. All persons using City park areas, associated marine areas,

beaches and water resources must obey all posted beach rules, lifeguard rules, dock rules,

instructions of lifeguards, and/or instructions from other City employees. Any person violating


7A.17.020 Designated areas only.

Designated swimming areas are marked with buoys, log booms, signs, or other markers clearly

designating the boundaries of such areas. Swimmers are prohibited from swimming into or out of

designated swimming areas when lifeguards are on duty. Swimming is only permitted within

designated swimming areas at City park areas, associated marine areas and beaches. Swimming

is allowed in Sammamish Landing Park only on the south dock. Any person violating provisions

of this rule shall have committed a civil offense.

7A.17.030 Floatation devices.

Floatation devices are allowed only at lifeguards’ discretion in the shallow end of a designated

swim area. No floatation devices are allowed in the deep end of a swimming area. Swimmers

must stay within designated swimming areas when using floatation devices. Any person


7A.17.040 False alarm of drowning prohibited.

False alarm of drowning is prohibited. No person may give or transmit a false signal or false

alarm of drowning in any manner. Any person violating provisions of this rule shall have


7A.17.050 Swimming, sunbathing and scuba diving in boat launches prohibited.

No person may swim, sunbathe or scuba dive in any designated boat launching areas. Any


7A.17.060 Interfering with lifeguard duties.

Activities in any City of Sammamish park areas, associated park areas, or beaches are prohibited

if they endanger other beach users or interfere, distract or obstruct lifeguards from performing

their responsibilities. When circumstances can safely permit games, such games will be

32

conducted only with the consent of a lifeguard or other Department employee. Any person


33

Chapter 7A.18

DAMAGE TO CITY PROPERTY AND WILDLIFE

Sections:

7A.18.010 Damage to park facilities or properties.

7A.18.020 Damage to plant life.

7A.18.030 Damage to wildlife.

7A.18.040 Mechanical trapping devices.

7A.18.050 Feeding animals.

7A.18.010 Damage to park facilities or properties.

No person, except a duly authorized Department employee in the performance of his or her

duties, or other person duly authorized pursuant to law, may remove, move, relocate, change

position, destroy, deface, or damage any City material, equipment, or other property which is

under the jurisdiction of the Department. This section applies to any City of Sammamish open

space, trail, park area, park facility or associated marine area. Any person violating provisions of


7A.18.020 Damage to plant life.

No person, except a duly authorized Department employee or authorized city volunteer in the

performance of his or her duties, or other person duly authorized pursuant to law, may remove,

move, relocate, change position, destroy, deface, mutilate, injure, or damage any City vegetation,

living or dead, which is under the jurisdiction of the Department. This section applies to any City

of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, facility or associated marine area. Any person


7A.18.030 Damage to wildlife.

Except for authorized fishing and shellfishing in authorized areas and subject to rules

promulgated by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, no person in any manner may

capture, tease, annoy, harass, disturb, strike, mutilate, injure or damage any animal within any

City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, facility or associated marine area. Any person


7A.18.040 Mechanical trapping devices.

No person, except a duly authorized Department employee in the performance of his or her

duties, or other person duly authorized pursuant to law, may use a mechanical trapping device

within any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility, or associated marine

area. For the purpose of this section, a “mechanical trapping device” shall be defined as any

device that shuts suddenly upon contact by an animal or kills or inflicts physical pain and injury

upon a captured animal. This section includes, but is not limited to, snares or machines. The act

of capturing an animal, by other than lawful means, is prohibited. Any person violating


7A.18.050 Feeding animals.

34

It is unlawful for any person in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility

or associated marine area to feed wildlife, except that this prohibition does not include licensed

fishing or shellfishing activity in designated areas. Any person violating provisions of this rule

shall have committed a civil offense.

35

Chapter 7A.19

PENALTIES

Sections:

7A.19.010 Civil offenses, criminal misdemeanors, separate offenses, and nuisances.

7A.19.020 Administrative sanctions.

7A.19.010 Civil offenses, criminal misdemeanors, separate offenses, and nuisances.


effect and as subsequently amended: SMC 1.10. The provisions of this Title are not exclusive

and may be used in addition to other applicable provisions of the Sammamish Municipal Code or

other applicable law or regulation.

7A.19.020 Administrative sanctions.

Subject to the discretion of the Director, in addition to any prescribed penalty, any person failing

to comply with any provision of SMC Title 7A, now in effect and as subsequently amended, may

be subject to the loss of park or recreation facility use privileges and ejection from the City of

Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility or associated marine area.


36

Chapter 7A.20

ENFORCEMENT

Sections:

7A.20.020 Responsibilities.

7A.20.030 Enforcement methods.

7A.20.010 Responsibilities.

Park safety is the responsibility of both the Department and City of Sammamish Police

Department. Specific responsibilities include the following:

(1) Department.

(a) Enforcing rules of conduct set forth in this Title for which Department personnel have been

designated authority.

(b) Developing and implementing public awareness programs regarding the purpose of the park

facilities and the rules governing their use.

(c) Encouraging voluntary compliance with rules based on awareness.

(d) Training department personnel in the appropriate use of administrative sanctions as a means

of park rule enforcement.

(e) Notifying law enforcement officers who have primary jurisdiction in a particular geographic

area whenever Department personnel observe violations of park rules requiring further law

enforcement authority or other violations of local, state, or federal laws. This section shall

include whenever there is an emergency requiring law enforcement assistance or whenever they

need assistance in executing their responsibilities pursuant to this chapter.

(2) City of Sammamish Police Department.

(a) Deputizing and training of personnel authorized to issue citations for infractions and

misdemeanor offenses.

(b) Providing supplementary patrols in City of Sammamish open spaces, trails, park areas, park

facilities, or associated marine areas jointly determined by the Director, City Manager and the

City Police Chief as described in any interlocal cooperation agreements, contracts, service

agreements, or any other contractual documents between the City and external agencies.

(c) Responding, as appropriate, to requests from Department personnel for assistance.

7A.20.020 Enforcement methods.

The provisions of this Title are not exclusive and may be used in addition to other applicable

provisions of the Sammamish Municipal Code or other applicable law or regulation.

37

Chapter 7A.21

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Sections:

7A.21.010 Severability.

7A.21.010 Severability.

Should any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase of this chapter be ordered

unconstitutional or invalid for any reason, such decision shall not affect the validity of the

remaining portion of this chapter.

Sammamish Municipal Code

Title 7A (Parks and Recreation)

Bail Schedule

Section Title Fee (first

violation)

Fee (subsequent

violations)

7A.03.060 Religious services, group rallies or assemblies $47 $138

7A.03.070 Large groups $47 $138

7A.03.080 Rockets $47 $138

7A.03.090 Sale of goods, services or conducting private business $47 $138

7A.03.100 Solicitation $47 $138

7A.03.110 Distribution or posting printed materials or signs $47 $138

7A.03.120 Use of any loudspeaker, sound amplification equipment

or other amplifying device. $47 $138

7A.03.130 Unintended Use $47 $138

7A.03.140 Organized activities in parking lots and roadways $47 $138

7A.06.010 Ice $47 $138

7A.07.010 Loitering in restrooms $47 $138

7A.07.020 Compliance with signage $47 $138

7A.07.040 Washing of food waste, clothes or animals $47 $138

7A.08.010 Speed limits $47 $138

7A.09.010 Parking $47 $138

7A.09.030 Washing of vehicles $47 $138

7A.09.040 Commercial vehicles $47 $138

7A.10.040 Toy motorized boats $47 $138

7A.10.050 Toy motorized cars or trucks $47 $138

7A.11.040 Interference with trails $47 $138

7A.12.020 Occupancy and overnight moorage $47 $138

7A.12.030 Anchorage $47 $138

7A.12.040 Operating watercraft in swimming areas $47 $138

7A.12.050 Designated areas for landing, launching, docking or

operating $47 $138

7A.12.060 Tandem moorage $47 $138

7A.12.070 Moorage in swimming areas $47 $138

7A.12.080 Commercial watercraft $47 $138

7A.13.010 No camping allowed $47 $138

7A.14.010 Game fish $47 $138

7A.14.020 Shellfish and food fish $47 $138

7A.14.030 Posted fishing rules $47 $138

7A.14.040 Fishing pots $47 $138

7A.15.010 Pets allowed in park facilities $47 $138

7A.15.020 Dog leash requirements $47 $138

7A.15.030 Animal waste removal $47 $138

7A.15.070 Dog park rules $47 $138

7A.15.080 Damage and disturbance by dogs, pets or domestic

animals $47 $138

7A.15.090 Horseback riding $47 $138

7A.16.010 Littering $47 $138

7A.17.010 Obey rules $47 $138

7A.17.020 Designated areas only $47 $138

7A.17.030 Floatation devices $47 $138

7A.17.040 False alarm of drowning prohibited $47 $138

7A.17.050 Swimming, sunbathing and scuba diving in boat

launches prohibited $47 $138

7A.18.050 Feeding animals $47 $138

SMC Title 7A Parks and RecreationLast updated: April 9, 2021

Chapter 7A.01 DefinitionsSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.01.010 Definitions SMC 7.12.010 Definitions (Article I: General)

(1) “Aircraft” Updated to include drones and model aircraft

(2) “Alcoholic beverages” RCW 66.04.010. Adopting state RCW

(3) "Anchorage" Added following PRC questions/feedback

(4) “Associated marine area”

(5) “Boat”

(6) “Camper”

(7) “Camping”

(8) “Campsite”

(9) “City of Sammamish open space, trail or park area” Any property owned or operated by the Department

(10) “City of Sammamish park facility” Typically in reference to Beaver Lake Lodge and any facility rentals or athletic fields

(11) “Department”

(12) “Director”

(13) “Discrimination” RCW 49.60.040 Adopting state RCW

(14) "Electric-assisted bicycle" RCW 46.04.169. Adopting state RCW

(15) "Electric personal assistive mobility device" RCW 46.04.1695 Adopting state RCW

(16) "Emergency" SMC 2.70.020 New. Added per attorney review

(17) “Floatation device”

(18) "Marijuana" RCW 69.50.101 Adopting state RCW

(19) "Moped" RCW 46.04.304 Adopting state RCW

(20) “Motor powered craft or watercraft” Updated based on feedback from department and motorized stand-up paddleboards

(21) “Motor vehicle”

(22) “Motorized foot scooter” RCW 46.04.336 Adopting state RCW

(23) "Motorized vehicles"

(24) “Person”

(25) “Rocket”

(26) "Service animal" RCW 49.60.040 Adopting RCW 49.60.040

(27) “Trail”

(28) “Trailer”

(29) “Trailer site”

Chapter 7A.02 Hours and Conditions of OperationsSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.02.010 Park facility hours N/A SMC 7.12.080 Use of facilities – Building use hours. (Article II: Administration)

7A.02.020 Park hours N/A SMC 7.12.030 Administrative rules – Hours and conditions of operation. (Article II: Administration)

7A.02.030 Presence in parks during hours of closure Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.480 Presence in parks during hours the park is closed. (Article III: Infractions) Adjusted penalty to misdemeanor per the request of Sammamish PD

Chapter 7A.03 Permits for Individuals, Community Groups and Special UseSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.03.010 Permits for community groups in park facilities SMC 7.12.040 Permits for community groups. (Article II: Administration)

7A.03.020 Special use permits SMC 7.12.050 Special use permits. (Article II: Administration)

7A.03.030 Cancellation of permits SMC 7.12.060 Cancellation of permit. (Article II: Administration) Adjusted per attorney review.

7A.03.040 Liability SMC 7.12.100 Liability. (Article II: Administration) Updated language per WCIA and attorney review

7A.03.050 Liability insurance SMC 7.12.110 Liability insurance. (Article II: Administration) Updated language per WCIA and attorney review

7A.03.060 Religious services, group rallies or assemblies Infraction SMC 7.12.070 Religious services or group rallies. (Article II: Administration)

7A.03.070 Large groups Infraction New. Based on feedback from Parks & Recreation Commission

7A.03.080 Rockets Infraction SMC 7.12.600 Aircraft. (Article IV: Misdemeanors) Split out from aircraft regulations since they are regulated differently (per FAA regulations,

drones and model aircraft are regulated as aircraft)

7A.03.090 Sale of goods, services or conducting private business Infraction SMC 7.12.150 Facility use – Sale of goods or services. (Article II: Administration) Based on feedback from Parks & Recreation Commission

7A.03.100 Solicitation Infraction SMC 7.12.610 Solicitation. (Article IV: Misdemeanors)

7A.03.110 Distibution or posting printed materials or signs Infraction SMC 7.12.610 Solicitation. (Article IV: Misdemeanors) Split out from "solicitation" regulations

7A.03.120 Use of any loudspeaker, sound amplification equipment or other amplyfing device. Infraction SMC 7.12.610 Solicitation. (Article IV: Misdemeanors). Bellevue Municipal Code 3.43.260. Split out from "solocitation" regulations. Included Bellevue Municipal Code 3.43.260 (Sound

amplification equipment prohibited).

7A.03.130 Unintended Use Infraction Redmond Municipal Code 9.31.320. Existing signage. New. Based on Redmond Municipal Code 9.31.320 (Damage to property/wildlife, existing

sigange)

7A.03.140 Organized activities in parking lots and roadways Infraction SMC 7.12.240 Parking lots and roadways – Games prohibited. (Article III: Infraction)

Chapter 7A.04 Use of Park Facilities and BuildingsSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.04.010 Storage of equipment SMC 7.12.130 Storage of equipment – Liability of City. (Article II: Administration)

7A.04.020 Responsibility for City equipment SMC 7.12.130 Storage of equipment – Liability of City. (Article II: Administration) Split out from SMC 7.12.130 Storage of equipment – Liability of City. (Article II: Administration)

(per City attorney)

7A.04.030 Failure to conform or misuse of equipment SMC 7.12.140 Equipment regulations – Failure to conform. (Article II: Administration)

7A.04.040 Cleanup SMC 7.12.090 Cleanup. (Article II: Administration)

Chapter 7A.05 Controlled SubstancesSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.05.010 Alcoholic beverages Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.640 Alcoholic beverages. (Article IV: Misdemeanors), SMC 7.12.050 Special use permits. (Article II: Administration)Combined and adjusted per attorney review. Note: Alcohol in parks is not permitted and the City

does not allow it except in the Lodge where it can be contained indoors with insurance and a

permit through the state.

7A.05.020 Intoxication Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.642 Intoxication. (Article IV: Misdemeanors) Keeping per the request by Sammamish PD

7A.05.030 Underage drinking of alcoholic beverages See RCW 66.04.200 RCW 66.04.200 Adopting RCW

7A.05.040 Tobacco and related products Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.646 Tobacco and related products prohibited. (Article IV: Misdemeanors) Adopted by Council in 2014 (Ord. O2014-368 § 32)

7A.05.050 Controlled substances See SMC 69.05 SMC 69.05 Adopting SMC

7A.05.060 Marijuana use See RCW 69.50.445 RCW 69.50.445 Adopting RCW

Chapter 7A.06 Park SafetySection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.06.010 Ice Infraction SMC 7.12.380 Ice. (Article III: Infraction)

7A.06.020 Fireworks See SMC 8.10 SMC 7.12.620 Fireworks (Article IV: Misdemeanors) Adopting SMC

7A.06.030 Firearms and dangerous weapons See Chapter 9.41 RCW Previously SMC 7.12.630 Firearms, weapons. (Article IV: Misdemeanors). Adopting Chapter 9.41 RCW.Adopting RCW

7A.06.040 Age limits for park equipment and play structures Existing park signage New. Based on rules at Big Rock Park and Pine Lake Park. Removed penalty per attorney review.

7A.06.050 Prohibited items and activities in spray parks Existing park signage New. Based on field rules at Beaver Lake Park. Removed penalty per attorney review.

Chapter 7A.07 General RulesSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.07.010 Loitering in restrooms Infraction SMC 7.12.490 Loitering. (Article IV: Misdemeanors)

7A.07.020 Compliance with signage Infraction SMC 7.12.485 Compliance with signage (Article III: Infraction)

7A.07.030 Washing of food waste, clothes or animals Infraction SMC 7.12.230 Food waste, washing of clothes or animals prohibited. (Article III: Infraction)

7A.07.040 Burning restrictions Misdemeanor Issaquah Municipal Code 9.25.010 New. Based on Issaquah Municipal Code 9.25.010: Parks and playfields – Burning restrictions.

7A.07.050 Clothing SMC 7.12.370 Clothing. (Article III: Infraction)

7A.07.060 Aircraft Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.600 Aircraft. (Article IV: Misdemeanors). Also adopting 49 USC Ch. 488. FAA regulations cover drones per 49 USC Ch. 488, Section 44809

7A.07.070 Prohibited items on sports fields Existing park signage. New. Based on rule signage at spray park in Sammamish Commons.

7A.07.080 Time limit Existing park signage. New. Based on time limit requirement at East Sammamish Park.

7A.07.090 Public disturbance (noise) See SMC 8.15 SMC 8.15 Adopting SMC

7A.07.100 Freedom from discrimination Misdemeanor RCW 49.60.030 New. Adopting RCW. Previous SMC code for parks defined "discrimination" but never established

actual rules prohibiting discrimination.

Chapter 7A.08 Speed and TravelSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.08.010 Speed limits Infraction SMC 7.12.295 Trail use. Subsection (1). (Article III: Infraction) Split out from trail use. Applying to all park areas, facilities and associated marine areas.

7A.08.020 Traveling in a negligent manner Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.295 Trail use. Subsection (2). (Article III: Infraction) Split out from trail use. Applying to all park areas, facilities and associated marine areas.

Chapter 7A.9 VehiclesSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.09.010 Parking Infraction SMC 7.12.250 Motor vehicles – Parking. (Article III: Infraction)

7A.09.020 Operation of vehicles Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.260 Motor vehicles on roads and trails. (Article III: Infraction)

7A.09.030 Washing of vehicles Infraction SMC 7.12.280 Washing of vehicles. (Article III: Infraction)

7A.09.040 Commercial vehicles Infraction SMC 7.12.290 Motor vehicles – Trucks and commercial vehicles. (Article III: Infraction)

Chapter 7A.10 Electric and Small Motorized DevicesSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.10.010 Electric personal assistive mobility devices See SMC 7A.08.010 Parks and Recreation Commission New. Adopting new speed regulations. Based on feedback from Parks and Recreation

Commission

7A.10.020 Motorized foot scooters See SMC 7A.08.010 Parks and Recreation Commission Adopting new speed regulations. Based on feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission. Will

need to amend SMC 46.20 (Motorized Foot Scooters and Other Vehicles) which currently bans

any motorized foot scooters (including electric) in City parks.

7A.10.030 Electric-assisted bicycles See SMC 7A.08.010 and

RCW 46.61.710.

Parks and Recreation Commission New. Adopting new speed regulations. Based on feedback from Parks and Recreation

Commission. Adopting as reference RCW 46.61.710.

7A.10.040 Toy motorized boats Infraction SMC 7.12.460 Swimming and boating rules. Subsection (2) (Article III: Infractions) Based on feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission

7A.10.050 Toy motorized cars or trucks Infraction Parks and Recreation Commission New. Based on feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission

Chapter 7A.11 Trail UseSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.11.010 Motorized vehicles Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.295 Trail use. Subsection (5). (Article III: Infraction) Split out from trail use regulations. Based on feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission.

7A.11.020 Non-motorized use See SMC 7A.08.010 SMC 7.12.295 Trail use. Subsection (6). (Article III: Infraction) Split out from trail use regulations. Based on feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission.

7A.11.030 Traffic control devices Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.295 Trail use. Subsection (4). (Article III: Infraction) Split out from trail use regulations

7A.11.040 Interference with trails Infraction SMC 7.12.645 Interference with trails. (Article IV: Misdemeanors)

7A.11.050 Soft surface trails, sensitive areas and boardwalks. See SMC 7A.08.010 SMC 7.12.295 Trail use. Subsection (6). (Article III: Infraction) Split out from trail use regulations

Chapter 7A.12 Boating and WatercraftSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.12.010 Boating regulations See SMC 12.05.010 SMC 12.05.010 Citing current boating regulations in SMC

7A.12.020 Occupancy and overnight moorage Infraction SMC 7.12.300 Boating – Occupancy policy. (Article III: Infractions) Merged langauge from SMC 7.12.320 (Overnight moorage).

7A.12.030 Anchorage Infraction Kirkland Municipal Code 14.16.030: Anchorages. New. Based on Kirkland Municipal Code 14.16.030: Anchorages.

7A.12.040 Operating watercraft in swimming areas Infraction SMC 7.12.460 Swimming and boating rules. Subsection (2) (Article III: Infractions) Split out from swimming and boating rules

7A.12.050 Designated areas for landing, launching, docking or operating Infraction SMC 7.12.460 Swimming and boating rules Subsection (6) (Article III: Infractions) Split out from swimming and boating rules

7A.12.060 Tandem moorage Infraction SMC 7.12.330 Tandem moorage. (Article III: Infractions)

7A.12.070 Moorage in swimming areas Infraction SMC 7.12.540 Moorage in swimming area prohibited – Exception. (Article IV: Misdemeanors)

7A.12.080 Commercial watercraft Infraction SMC 7.12.310 Commercial watercraft prohibited. (Article III: Infractions)

7A.12.090 Use of marine heads Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.340 Use of marine heads. (Article III: Infractions)

Chapter 7A.13 CampingSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.13.010 No camping allowed Infraction SMC 7.12.350 Camping – In designated areas only. (Article III: Infractions)

Chapter 7A.14 FishingSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.14.010 Game fish Infraction SMC 7.12.390 Game fish. (Article III: Infractions)

7A.14.020 Shellfish and food fish Infraction SMC 7.12.400 Shellfish and food fish. (Article III: Infractions)

7A.14.030 Posted fishing rules Infraction Existing signage New. Based on dock rules at Pine Lake Park.

7A.14.040 Fishing pots Infraction Existing signage New. Added at the request of Park Resources Division

Chapter 7A.15 Pets and AnimalsSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.15.010 Pets allowed in park facilities Infraction SMC 7.12.410 Pets in City park facilities. Subsection (1) (Article III: Infractions) Split out from "Pets in City park facilities"

7A.15.020 Dog leash requirements Infraction SMC 7.12.410 Pets in City park facilities. Subsection (2) (Article III: Infractions). Bellevue

Municipal Code 8.05.030, Bellevue Municipal Code 3.43.130, Kirkland Municipal Code

11.80.060

Split out from "Pets in City park facilities", added Bellevue Municipal Code 8.05.030 (Dogs at large

prohibited), Bellevue Municipal Code 3.43.130 (Dogs and pets – Prohibited areas), loosely based

on Kirkland Municipal Code 11.80.060 (Animals at large prohibited—Exceptions—Off-leash

parks).

7A.15.030 Animal waste removal Infraction SMC 7.12.410 Pets in City park facilities. Subsection (3) (Article III: Infractions) Split out from "Pets in City park facilities"

7A.15.070 Dog park rules Infraction Existing signage New. Based on off-leash dog park rules at Beaver Lake Park

7A.15.080 Damage and disturbance by dogs, pets or domestic animals Infraction SMC 7.12.420 Disturbances by animals prohibited. (Article III: Infractions)

7A.15.090 Horseback riding Infraction SMC 7.12.430 Horseback riding. (Article III: Infractions). SMC 7.12.500 Horseback riding – May not endanger others. (Article IV: Misdemeanors)Horseback riding rules currently show up in both infractions and misdemeanors.

7A.15.100 Animal control See SMC 11.05 SMC 11.05. Adopting SMC

Chapter 7A.16 Waste, Refuse and LitterSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.16.010 Littering Infraction SMC 7.12.440 Littering. (Article III: Infractions)

7A.16.020 Outside, household or commercial waste Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.570 Outside household or commercial waste. (Article IV: Misdemeanors)

7A.16.030 Waste from vehicles Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.580 Waste from vehicles. (Article IV: Misdemeanors)

7A.16.040 Dumping in water Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.590 Dumping in water prohibited (Article IV: Misdemeanors).

Chapter 7A.17 SwimmingSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.17.010 Obey rules Infraction SMC 7.12.460 Swimming and boating rules. (Article III: Infractions) Split out from swimming and boating rules. Added content from Pine Lake lifeguard rules.

7A.17.020 Designated areas only Infraction SMC 7.12.460 Swimming and boating rules. Subsection (1) (Article III: Infractions). SMC 7.12.450 Swimming – In designated areas only. (repealed)Split out from swimming and boating rules. Required in order for lifeguards to enforce this rule.

7A.17.030 Floatation devices Infraction SMC 7.12.460 Swimming and boating rules. Subsection (2) (Article III: Infractions) Split out from swimming and boating rules.

7A.17.040 False alarm of drowning prohibited Infraction SMC 7.12.460 Swimming and boating rules. Subsection (3) (Article III: Infractions), SMC

7.12.520 False alarm of drowning prohibited. (Article IV: Misdemeanors)

This language currently shows up twice in the city code (once under infractions and once under

misdemeanors).

7A.17.050 Swimming, sunbathing and scuba diving in boat launches prohibited Infraction SMC 7.12.460 Swimming and boating rules. Subsection (4) (Article III: Infractions) Split out from swimming and boating rules. Added scuba diving into this section

7A.17.060 Interfering with lifeguard duties Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.530 Games on beaches. (Article IV: Misdemeanors)

Chapter 7A.18 Damage to City Property and WildifeSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.18.010 Damage to park facilities or properties Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.550 Damage to property/wildlife. Subsection (1). (Article IV: Misdemeanors) Split out from 7.12.550 (Damage to property/wildlife.)

7A.18.020 Damage to plant life Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.550 Damage to property/wildlife. Subsection (1). (Article IV: Misdemeanors) Split out from 7.12.550 (Damage to property/wildlife.). Adjusted based on recommendations

from the Parks and Recreation Commission

7A.18.030 Damage to wildlife Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.550 Damage to property/wildlife. Subsection (2). (Article IV: Misdemeanors) Split out from 7.12.550 (Damage to property/wildlife.). Adjusted based on recommendations

from the Parks and Recreation Commission

7A.18.040 Mechanical trapping devices Misdemeanor SMC 7.12.510 Mechanical trapping devices – Capturing or injuring animals. (Article IV: Misdemeanors)

7A.18.050 Feeding animals Infraction SMC 7.12.550 Damage to property/wildlife. Subsection (3). (Article IV: Misdemeanors) Split out from 7.12.550 (Damage to property/wildlife.)

Chapter 7A.19 PenaltiesSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.19.010 Civil offenses, criminal misdemeanors, separate offenses, and nuisances SMC 1.10 Previously SMC 7.12.650 (Infractions) and SMC 7.12.660 (Misdemeanors). Changing language to

cite SMC 1.10.010 (General penalties) in order to maintain consistency with current code. This is

where the penalties for civil offenses and criminal misdemeanors are described and established.

7A.19.020 Administrative sanctions SMC 7.12.670 Administrative sanctions. (Article V: Penalties)

Chapter 7A.20 EnforcementSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.20.020 Responsibilities SMC 7.12.690 Responsibilities. (Article VI: Enforcement)

7A.20.030 Enforcement methods SMC 7.12.700 Enforcement methods. (Article VI: Enforcement) Updated per attorney review.

Chapter 7A.21 Miscellaneous ProvisionsSection Infraction/Misdemeanor Reference Notes

7A.21.050 Severability SMC 7.12.720 Severability. (Article VII: Miscellaneous Provisions)

Reference

SMC 7.12.120 Adults to accompany minors. (Article II: Administration)

SMC 7.12.270 Motor vehicles – Speed limits (Article II: Administration)

SMC 7.12.295 Trail use. Subsections (7) and (8). Model Trail Use Code of Conduct. (Article III: Infraction)

SMC 7.12.295 Trail use. Subsection (3). Type of Travel (Article III: Infraction)

SMC 7.12.460 Swimming and boating rules Subsection (5). Operating Motoroized watercraft near swimmers (Article III: Infractions)

SMC 7.12.320 Overnight moorage. (Article III: Infractions)

SMC 7.12.360 Tents and shelters on beaches. (Article III: Infractions)

SMC 7.12.470 Swimming/scuba diving in boat launch areas prohibited. (Article III: Infractions)

SMC 7.12.560 Removal of property (Article IV: Misdemeanors)

Article III: Infractions

Article IV: Misdemeanors

SMC 7.12.680 Park safety. (Article VI: Enforcement)

SMC 7.12.710 Contractual agreements. (Article VI: Enforcement)

SMC 7.12.710 Contractual agreements (Article VI. Park Safety – Enforcement)

Amend SMC 46.20 (Motorized Foot Scooters and Other Vehicles)

SMC 7.12.220 Picnicking. (Article III: Infraction) Removed following feedback from Parks and Recreation Commission

Conflicts with 7A.10.020 Motorized foot scooters (ban on motorized foot scooters)

Moved to 7A.17.050 (Swimming, sunbathing and scuba diving in boat launches prohibited)

Not a rule which the Department wishes to keep

Move language to 7A.12.020 (Occupancy and overnight moorage)

No longer needed. Already cited in SMC 12.05 (KCC 12.44.060).

No longer need historical information

No longer need historical information

Unecessary rule per attorney review

Changing language to cite SMC 1.10.010 (General penalties) in order to maintain consistency with current code.

Changing language to cite SMC 1.10.010 (General penalties) in order to maintain consistency with current code.

Moved content to 7A.18.010 (Damage to park facilities or properties) and 7A.19.020 (Damage to plant life)

Using standard speed limits for all Department properties

Reason

Removed


Moved to definition section


SMC Title 7A: Parks and Recreation

Public Feedback (February 16 – March 8, 2021)


April 14, 2021

Table of Contents Public Engagement and Outreach ................................................................................................................ 1

Review of Proposed Rules ............................................................................................................................. 1

Methods of Feedback ................................................................................................................................... 2

Questions to the Public ................................................................................................................................. 2

Thematic Analysis ......................................................................................................................................... 2

Text Analysis ................................................................................................................................................. 4

1

Public Engagement and Outreach As part of ongoing efforts to engage the Sammamish community, provide transparency, and solicit

public feedback to support decision-making, the City provided residents the opportunity to review and

provide feedback on the proposed changes to City park rules (SMC Title 7A: Parks & Recreation). The

public feedback process began on February 16 and remained open through March 7, 2021. The

proposed rules, along with opportunities to engage with City staff, were hosted on ConnectSammamish

and included a project summary, links to the current Sammamish Municipal Code, links to past

presentations to the Sammamish Parks and Recreation Commission, project timeline, survey tool to

provide feedback, and staff contact information.

To promote the public engagement process, the City released notifications using several social media

platforms, email subscription alerts, and its eNewsletter on the following dates:

• Facebook: February 22, February 25, February 27, March 4, March 7

• Instagram: February 22, February 25, February 27, March 4, March 7

• Twitter: February 22, February 25, February 27, March 4, March 7

• NextDoor: February 22, February 25, February 27, March 4, March 7

• GovDelivery: February 22

• eNews: February 26, March 5

Overall engagement during the public review/comment period resulted in:

• 608 total visitors to the ConnectSammamish page

• 273 visitors who reviewed multiple subpages (proposed chapters in SMC Title 7A)

• 10 downloads of the proposed changes (PDF format)

• 57 individual comments

Review of Proposed Rules The top 5 viewed topics during this public process were rules impacting pets/animals, hours of

operation, controlled substances, trail use, and park safety. Below is the frequency of all views by

chapter:

SMC Title 7A Chapter Views

Chapter 7A.15: Pets and Animals 75

Chapter 7A.02: Hours and Conditions of Operations 51

Chapter 7A.05: Controlled Substances 38

Chapter 7A.11: Trail Use 35

Chapter 7A.06: Park Safety 31

Chapter 7A.17: Swimming 29

Chapter 7A.04: Use of Park Facilities and Buildings 28

Chapter 7A.03: Permits for Individuals, Community Groups and Special Use 29

Chapter 7A.07: General Rules 28

Chapter 7A.13: Camping 28

Chapter 7A.10: Electric and Small Motorized Devices 27

Chapter 7A.01: Definitions 26

Chapter 7A.19: Penalties 25

2

Chapter 7A.08: Speed and Travel 24

Chapter 7A.14: Fishing 23

Chapter 7A.20: Enforcement 23

Chapter 7A.12: Boating and Watercraft 22

Chapter 7A.21: Miscellaneous Provisions 17

Chapter 7A.16: Waste, Refuse and Litter 11

Chapter 7A.18: Damage to City Property and Wildlife 8

Chapter 7A.09: Vehicles 1

Methods of Feedback During the public feedback process, Sammamish residents had the opportunity to respond to three

questions using a survey tool hosted on ConnectSammamish (one open comment box limited to 255

characters) or by emailing City staff directly. The majority of residents responded by using the survey

tool on ConnectSammamish but several residents commented directly to staff via email. In some cases,

residents also provided their feedback on social media platforms used by the City to promote the public

feedback process to the community. City staff collected all forms of feedback regardless of the method

used by residents. In cases where a resident responded by using multiple methods (e.g. if comments

were provided via ConnectSammamish and email), City staff cross-referenced the feedback to remove

any duplication and combined the comments into one response per individual.

Following the open comment period, and if contact information was provided using the

ConnectSammamish survey tool, City staff also reached out directly to each individual participant with

an opportunity to provide any additional feedback.

Questions to the Public Below are the questions that were provided to the community during the public feedback process.

We want your feedback on City park rules! Your feedback is critical in helping City staff evaluate and consider changes being made to City park rules. Please provide your thoughts by Sunday, March 7th:

• Are there safety issues that occur in City parks that staff need to be aware of? • Are there certain activities conducted by other members of the public that disrupt your

enjoyment when visiting a City playground, sports field, beach, dog park, trail, etc.? • Are there certain rules that interfere with your enjoyment when visiting a City park?

Thematic Analysis City staff read through all individual comments and summarized the feedback through a process called

“thematic analysis”. Thematic analysis is a method of analyzing qualitative data as it looks for patterns

from participant communication that is not constrained by limitations to the questions being asked,

such as an open-ended survey question. Below is an analysis of the citizen comments sorted in

descending order by the most frequent issues/concerns/comments that were raised during this public

process.

Comment #

Concern about off-leash dogs, park users disobeying dog leash laws, need for enforcement 17

Appreciation/excitement of parks, appreciate/excitement of park amenities 4

3

Concern about parks users disobeying mask laws 3

Concern about dog poop in parks 3

No issues/concerns 3

Concern about bikes in parks 2

Request for lighting at night, streetlights 2

Concern about not being able to stay late at night in a park 2

Request for video cameras in parking lots, concern about car break-ins 2

Concern that dog leash laws are too restrictive 2

Concern about loud music 2

Preference for expanding parks before development, more “open space” between development 2

Maintenance request 2

Concern/confusion about prohibition/restrictions of motorized toys 2

Concern about providing personal information on surveys 2

“No” 1

“Park rules survey” 1

Concern about mountain bikers 1

Non-profits should be able to post signs marketing/advertising their organization/activities 1

Question about traffic 1

Request for a pump track 1

Preference for protecting sensitive areas 1

Preference for multi-use trails (bikes) 1

Concern about available parking 1

Request for exercise equipment 1

Preference for more farmers markets in parks 1

Concern about swimming in open lakes near motorized watercraft 1

Concern about fishermen not cleaning up equipment (injuring dogs/swimmers) 1

Concern about horses traveling at fast speeds 1

Request for new amenities and athletic programs 1

Concern about location of dog park 1

Concern about drug use 1

Concern about camping 1

Concern that park openings in the morning (8am) is too late 1

Preference for extended dog park hours 1

Concern about allowing recurring use of parks for religious purposes 1

Concern about determining/approving location for the consumption of alcohol 1

Concern about requiring park users to obey swimming rules 1

“No comment until I know what I’m commenting on” 1

Preference to keeping parks and docks open 1

Concern about prohibition/restrictions on drones 1

Concern about prohibition/restrictions on tobacco 1

Confusion on cleaning fish directly into lakes 1

Preference for drone regulations 1

Confusion on clothing requirements (too vague) 1

Preference for electric bicycle regulations on tails 1

Confusion regarding non-motorized watercraft use (launching from non-designated areas) 1

Question asking if dogs are allowed to enter park areas to travel on stand-up paddle boards 1

4

Question asking if “dumping in water” applies to “bathroom breaks while swimming” 1

Concern that designated swim areas prohibits open water swimming 1

Preference that hammocks and slacklining should be prohibited because it damages trees 1

Concern about trash 1

Concern about quality of survey 1

Request for additional information about proposed changes to park rules 1

Text Analysis Below is a text analysis of all the individual comments provided by citizens. Text analysis is a method to

create quantitative data out of free text content in order to highlight topics and issues that would

otherwise be overlooked. In order to provide this data in a meaningful way, individual comments went

through a cleaning and pre-processing routine using multiple methods prior to ranking the most

commonly mentioned topics/issues raised during this public feedback process. Readers should be aware

this is an examination of raw data and is meant to supplement the thematic analysis provided earlier.

The report below only provides part of the text analysis, full analysis of all topics/issues is available as

needed.

SMC Title 7A: Parks & RecreationPublic Feedback (February 16 - March 8, 2021)*last updated March 12, 2021

Rank Topic

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50

Mentions

1 park2 dog3 leash4 lake5 sammamish

trail7 people8 bike9 area

beaverownerruleswimming

14 citylaw

16 horsemusicprovidepublicseewalking

22 concernedkidopenparkingpetproblemtimetoyusewalk

32 enforcedfeedbackfishinghookissueloudspace

39 adultallowedboatcamera

What are residents talking about?

Select TopicAll

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SMC Title 7A (Parks and Recreation) Frequently Asked Questions

February 12, 2021

How will the speed limit be monitored and enforced? The first step is to develop and implement public awareness and education on park rules to avoid or limit the need to enforce them. Maintenance crews work in City parks every day and would notify law enforcement officers when they observe violations of park rules requiring further law enforcement authority. Park users are always encouraged to call police in the event they believe there is an immediate or continuing threat to public safety. If there are specific areas with repeat offenders, the Sammamish Police Department will increase their patrols in those parks to enforce City laws. How were the fines in the proposed bail schedule developed? Why $47 and $138? Fine limits within the proposed bail schedule were recommended by the Sammamish Police Department as these limits are the same as King County parks. Some violations, such as speeding tickets and others, have increased over time but park fines have remained consistent. What is “anchorage”? “Anchorage” would be the actual act of anchoring (“setting anchor”), mooring, or otherwise securing a vessel or watercraft to the bed of any waters. Will gyms or other companies be allowed to offer workout and exercise sessions in park areas? The use of City of Sammamish open spaces, trails, park areas, park facilities or associated marine areas for financial gain will be allowed only through concession contracts secured by the City’s competitive bid process, negotiated concession contracts, or by special use permit issued by the City. For-profit entities will be prohibited from conducting private business in any City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility, or associated marine area. Why is picnicking prohibited in park areas? After careful review following feedback from the Parks and Recreation Commission, the City is proposing to remove an existing law that prohibits picnicking in non-designated and non-marked areas. The City continues to encourage park users to voluntarily comply with rules that prohibit littering in order to preserve the natural habitat of our local ecosystem. Why do some rules have no penalties assigned to them? The City believes that some park rules, such as clothing requirements and prohibited items on sports fields, are best enforced through voluntary compliance of park users. The City will continue to educate park users through signage and other outreach activities. How will e-bikes be regulated? The Washington State legislature has established baseline standards for the regulation of electric-assisted bicycles but provides local jurisdictions the power to make adjustments based on their specific, unique needs. Each jurisdiction and city regulates electric-assisted bicycles differently. For example, the City of Redmond allows for electric-assisted bicycles while King County Parks prohibits them on trails and in park

801 - 228th AVENUE SE • SAMMAMISH, WASHINGTON 98075 • TEL: 425-295-0500 • FAX: 425-295-0600 • WEB: WWW.SAMMAMISH.US

2

areas. The City of Seattle is currently piloting a program that allows electric-assisted bicycles to travel on some of its larger trails within the city. The proposed park rules for the City of Sammamish will follow the Washington State Legislature’s baseline regulatory standards which can be found here: RCW 46.61.710. Why is the City proposing a 15mph speed limit for all types of travel? Are there other ways to ensure safety when traveling in a park area? Can traveling just under 15mph still be dangerous? A standard speed limit is only part of the new changes. In order to ensure safe travel within park areas the following requirements must be followed at all times:

• No person may travel at a speed greater than 15 miles per hour.

• No person may travel at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.

• In no event may a person travel at a speed which endangers the safety of persons, property, or wildlife.

• No person may travel in a negligent manner which means any form of travel in such a manner as to endanger or be likely to endanger any persons or property.

A maximum speed limit of 15mph is consistent with other nearby jurisdictions, including King County and the City of Redmond. Which City park areas are bikes allowed? Bikes are allowed in almost all parks unless there are explicit restrictions. Currently, bikes are not allowed in Beaver Lake Preserve except for a connector trail to Soaring Eagle Park. Why is the City proposing restrictions on people entering a sports field with gum, seeds (sunflower, etc.) or glass containers? Items such as gum, sunflower seeds, and glass containers create large problems for City maintenance crews when these items are littered on athletic fields during sporting events. Similar to several other proposed rules, there will be no penalty or fine associated with this specific restriction. However, the City will continue to assess a penalty for the act of littering these items. What can the City do to regulate the use of drones in City parks? The City, along with other local jurisdictions, is limited in how to regulate the use of unmanned aircraft systems (commonly known as “drones”). Congress has provided the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with exclusive authority to regulate aviation safety, the efficiency of the navigable airspace, and air traffic control, among other things. State and local governments are not permitted to regulate any type of aircraft operations (such as flight paths, altitudes, navigable airspace, etc.) because substantial air safety issues are raised when state or local governments attempt to regulate the operation or flight of aircraft. Importantly, this federal framework also applies to unmanned aircraft systems as they are considered a form of aircraft. For the City Code changes impacting SMC Title 7A (Parks and Recreation), the City has the ability to determine if unmanned aircraft systems can use City parks for take-off or landing (also known as a landing site). At this time, the City will continue to prohibit the use of any City park areas as landing sites for all aircraft, including unmanned aircraft systems. Importantly, while the City can prohibit the take-off or landing within a park, an operator can still legally fly an unmanned aircraft system over a park assuming the operation is in compliance with FAA-mandated restrictions. What are the FAA-mandated restrictions when flying a recreational drone? There are many rules for hobby and recreational flying of unmanned aircraft systems required by the FAA, including:


3

• Register your drone, mark it on the outside with the registration number and carry proof of registration with you.

• Fly only for recreational purposes.

• Fly your drone at or below 400 feet above the ground when in uncontrolled (Class G) airspace.

• Obtain authorization before flying in controlled airspace (Class B, C, D, and E).

• Keep your drone within your visual line of sight, or within the visual line-of-sight of a visual observer who is co-located (physically next to) and in direct communication with you.

• Do not fly at night unless your drone has lighting that allows you to know its location and orientation at all times.

• Give way to and do not interfere with manned aircraft.

• Never fly over any person or moving vehicle.

• Never interfere with emergency response activities such as disaster relief, any type of accident response, law enforcement activities, firefighting, or hurricane recovery efforts.

• Never fly under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

• Do not operate your drone in a careless or reckless manner. In the near future the FAA will also require recreational drone operators to pass an online aeronautical knowledge and safety test and carry proof of test passage. What does “unintended use” mean? Unintended use refers to the participation of any activity, practice, game or sport in a City of Sammamish open space, trail, park area, park facility, or associated marine area that conflicts with normal, intended park usage. Commonly, many cities use this rule to prohibit parks users from playing golf on a baseball field as this can lead to considerable damage to the playing surface. What does “service animal” mean? Per Washington State law, "service animal" means any dog or miniature horse that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. The work or tasks performed by the service animal must be directly related to the individual's disability. Examples of work or tasks include, but are not limited to: assisting individuals who are blind or have low vision with navigation and other tasks, alerting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to the presence of people or sounds, providing nonviolent protection or rescue work, pulling a wheelchair, assisting an individual during a seizure, alerting individuals to the presence of allergens, retrieving items such as medicine or the telephone, providing physical support and assistance with balance and stability to individuals with mobility disabilities, and helping persons with psychiatric and neurological disabilities by preventing or interrupting impulsive or destructive behaviors. The crime deterrent effects of an animal's presence and the provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship do not constitute work or tasks. If a rental reservation has been made and accepted a large group, is a permit not required? Should a reservation and a permit be required for a large group? The City may grant permits to community groups to meet or conduct activities in City of Sammamish park facilities which may be granted in the form of a rental or reservation. Groups which desire to use City of Sammamish open spaces, trails, park areas, park facilities, or associated marine areas to conduct activities outside of the traditional facility rental process may be granted special use permits which may include a fee and, where appropriate, special conditions of use may be established. The use of City of Sammamish open space, trails, park areas, park facilities or associated marine areas for groups larger than 25 individuals may only be allowed by special use permit, unless permission was previously obtained through a rental reservation for the use of a City of Sammamish park facility.

sammamish municipal code title 7a: parks and recreation

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