A. When any measurement technique for determining required minimum or allowed maximum dimensions, including but not limited to height, yards, setbacks, lot coverage, opens space, parking stall size or street width, results in a fractional number, the dimension shall be measured to the nearest inch. Any fraction less than one-half of an inch shall be disregarded and fractions of one-half-inch or larger shall be included in the measurement. Note: Where illustrations conflict with the text of this section, the text shall control.

B. Distances are measured horizontally. When determining distances for setbacks, structure dimensions, and buffers, all distances are measured along a horizontal plane from the appropriate property line, critical area boundary, edge of building, structure, storage area, parking area or other object. These distances are not measured by following the topography of the land. See Figure 20.170.030-1.

C. Measurements are shortest distance. When measuring a required distance, such as the minimum distance between a structure and a lot line, the measurement is made at the shortest distance between the two objects, and perpendicular to the lot line. See Figure 20.170.030-2. For the purposes of VMC 20.740, Critical Areas Protection, the measurement is made at the shortest distance between two objects or boundaries without respect to the lot line. Other exceptions are stated in Subsection D, E, and F.

D. Measurements of vehicle travel areas. Minimum vehicle travel area for garage entrance setbacks is measured along the shortest side of the vehicle travel area. See Figure 20.170.030-3.

E. Measurements involving a structure. Measurements involving a structure are made to the closest wall of the structure. Chimneys, eaves, and bay windows up to 12 feet in length, are not included in the measurement. Other items, such as covered porches, and entrances are included in the measurement. See Figure 20.170-2 above.

F. Underground structures. Structures or portions of structures that are entirely underground are not included in measuring required distances. However, this shall not be interpreted to mean that underground construction is allowed to encroach under public rights-of-way, easements or other property without a street use permit. See Figure 20.170-4. For the purposes of 20.740, Critical Areas Protection, structures or portions of structures that are entirely underground are included in measuring required distances.

G. Landscaping. Measurements of the dimensions of a landscaped area include only the area that is actually landscaped and not any other elements such as protect curbs.

H. Wetland Buffer. See VMC 20.740.140(C)(1)(b).

I. Riparian Management Area and Riparian Buffer. See VMC 20.740.110 (A)(1).

J. Buffers from the Top or Toe of a Steep Slope. See VMC 20.740.130 (C)(1)(j)(4).

K. Buffer from All Edges of a Landslide Hazard Area. See VMC 20.740.130(C)(1)(j)(4).

L. Fault Rupture Hazard Areas Buffer. See VMC 20.740.130 (C)(2)(c)(3).