19.12.020 Scope.
The combination of two or more contiguous parcels can only be accomplished under the provisions of this chapter except as provided under RCW 58.17.040. Contiguous parcels may be combined for purposes of ownership, development or redevelopment. These provisions do not apply to combination or consolidation of tax parcels for taxing purposes only, as approved by the county assessor. Lot combinations are distinguished from boundary line adjustments which retain portions of the original parcels as separate lots or tracts, or short subdivisions, subdivisions or replats, which result in the creation of more than one parcel, lot or tract.
Circumstances under which contiguous parcels would be required to be combined as a condition of city development plan approval are as follows:
A. When an existing or proposed structure extends over a property line;
B. When contiguous parcels share common facilities including but not limited to access, parking, utilities, open space, landscaping, signage, etc., for which no easements or other legal instruments exist to ensure continuous ownership, use and maintenance of such facilities; or
C. When a parcel proposed for development contains insufficient area dimensions or frontage on a public street, to meet the minimum area, dimensions or other city requirements, and is contiguous to one or more parcels of the same ownership, and cannot be made to comply with city requirements by application of a boundary line adjustment.
D. Nothing in this chapter shall prohibit a property owner from combining multiple contiguous parcels under single ownership provided the combination is performed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 1016-08 § 2).