§ 21.90.020. Underground placement required for new or relocated lines; exceptions.

A.

Except as provided in subsections B, C, D and E of this section, all newly installed or relocated utility distribution lines shall be placed underground.

B.

Except where an assessment district has been formed to convert overhead utility distribution lines as provided in chapter 19.60:

1.

Utility distribution lines need not be placed underground in the rural area defined in section 21.85.020, or in the I-2 and I-3 zoning districts.

2.

CATV utility distribution lines need not be placed underground where there are other overhead utility distribution lines; provided that, when all of the other overhead distribution lines are placed underground, the CATV utility distribution line shall be placed underground in a joint trench with the other utility distribution lines.

3.

Notwithstanding subsection B.1 of this section, the following area shall be subject to the provisions of subsection A of this section requiring that newly installed or relocated utility distribution lines shall be placed underground: Lower Hillside, between and including Abbott Road, Rabbit Creek Road, Hillside Drive and the New Seward Highway.

C.

A new utility distribution line may be placed overhead when necessary immediately to restore service interrupted by accident or damage by flood, fire, earthquake or weather; provided that the utility distribution line shall be replaced by a utility distribution line conforming to this chapter within 12 months of its placement.

D.

A utility distribution line or service connection may be placed on the surface of frozen ground, provided that it is placed underground within 12 months thereafter.

E.

New facilities may be added to existing overhead utility distribution facilities located outside target areas.

F.

Utility distribution lines owned or operated by utilities that are parties to a joint trench agreement shall be placed underground in a joint trench.

G.

Nothing in this section restricts the maintenance, repair or reinforcement of existing overhead utility distribution lines.

H.

A temporary utility distribution line may be placed overhead in connection with new construction if the utility's tariff approved by the state public utilities commission expressly provides for removal of that line by a date certain, not to exceed 12 months thereafter.

(AO No. 156-76; AO No. 84-62; AO No. 86-17; AO No. 92-10)

Cross reference

Damage to underground utility facilities, ch. 26.90.