Chapter 17.44 — UNDERGROUND UTILITIES

Pursuant to the requirements of this chapter, whenever any tentative tract or parcel map or map for the reversion of lots to acreage is filed or whenever a use or building permit is requested for the development or redevelopment of new or relocated buildings or structures, or for the addition of floor space equal to or in excess of two hundred square feet is added to an existing building or structure in any zone except R-1, or whenever a new electrical service is installed in an existing building in any zone except R-1, or whenever a residential building or use is converted to any purpose or use other than that which existed at the time of conversion, then all electrical, telephone, community antenna television and similar service wires or cables which provide direct service to the property being developed shall, within the exterior boundary lines of such property, be installed underground.

(Ord. 939, 1976)

For the purposes of this chapter, appurtenances and associated equipment, such as but not limited to surface-mounted transformers, pedestal-mounted terminal boxes and meter cabinets, may be placed above ground.

(Ord. 939, 1976)

The developer or owner is responsible for complying with the requirements of this chapter and shall provide all necessary facilities on their premises so as to receive such services from the supplying utility or utilities subject to the applicable rules, regulations and tariffs of the respective utility or utilities on file with the State Public Utilities Commission. (Ord. 939, 1976)

Where practical difficulties or unnecessary hardships inconsistent with the purposes of this chapter result from its literal interpretation or enforcement, the planning commission may waive, modify or delay the application of any undergrounding requirement upon written request by a building site owner. Such request shall be filed with the planning commission and shall contain any and all facts which are offered in support. (Ord. 939, 1976)

If the planning commission's action is to delay the installation of required underground utilities, it may require the building site owner to file with the city a cash deposit and record a covenant sufficient to provide for the future installation of the underground features which are to be delayed. The amount of the cash deposit shall be determined by the building director. (Ord. 939, 1976)

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