Or. Admin. R. 632-005-0000 - Purpose

(1) The rules in this division implement the department's responsibilities under ORS 455.446 and 455.447 relating to the construction of specified facilities and structures within the specified tsunami inundation zones.

(2) The objective of the tsunami statutes and these implementing rules is to reduce the risk of loss of life. Risks will be reduced primarily by providing information and assistance to developers and by limiting where certain types of essential facilities or special occupancy structures may be located.

(3) ORS 455.446 and 455.447 and these rules:

(a) Establish a tsunami inundation zone;

(b) Require the developers of certain new essential facilities, hazardous facilities, major structures, and special occupancy structures which are regulated but not prohibited within the inundation zone under these rules to consult with the department before seeking land use or building permit or change in use approval;

(c) Prohibit the construction of certain new essential and special occupancy structures within the inundation zone;

(d) Provide a site-specific exception process for structures prohibited under subsection (3)(c). This process would consider relative risks, evacuation strategies, competing interests, construction strategies, terrain modifications, and other considerations; and

(e) Provide a general exemption for water-dependent and water-related structures and site-specific exemptions for certain essential facilities and special occupancy structures based upon the need for strategic location or school district boundaries.

(4) Evacuation is the preferred strategy for dealing with tsunami risk.

Notes

Or. Admin. R. 632-005-0000

GMI 1-1996, f. & cert. ef. 1-31-96; GMI 1-1997, f. & cert. ef. 4-4-97

Stat. Auth.: ORS 516.090

Stats. Implemented: ORS 455.446 & ORS 455.447