(1) New uses and developments that would require shoreline stabilization which causes adverse impacts to adjacent or down-current properties and shoreline areas should not be allowed.

(2) Soft shoreline stabilization measures shall be utilized unless demonstrated through a geotechnical report and analysis not to be sufficient to protect primary structures, dwellings and businesses. Alternatives for shoreline stabilization shall be based on the following order and preference:

(3) Soft shoreline stabilization measures that provide restoration of shoreline ecological functions may be permitted waterward of the ordinary high water mark.

(4) When hard shoreline stabilization measures are demonstrated to be necessary, they must:

(5) Shoreline stabilization measures for the sole purpose of leveling or extending property or creating or preserving residential lawns, yards, or landscaping shall be prohibited.

(6) Placement of shoreline stabilization methods shall follow the natural contour of the existing shoreline, be parallel to and at or above the ordinary high water mark except as otherwise authorized by this Program.

(7) Shoreline stabilization projects shall be designed and constructed to avoid or minimize impacts to sediment transport.

(8) Shoreline stabilization shall be designed and constructed with gravel backfill and weep holes so that natural downward movement of surface or groundwater may continue without ponding or saturation that could compromise the surrounding soil stability.

(9) Shoreline stabilization structures shall not be constructed with waste materials such as demolition debris, derelict vessels, tires, concrete or any other materials which might have adverse toxic or visual impacts on shoreline areas.

(10) Gabions are prohibited as a means of stabilizing shorelines because of their limited durability and the potential hazard to shoreline users and the shoreline environment.

(11) Publicly financed or subsidized shoreline erosion control measures shall be designed to not restrict appropriate public access to the shoreline except where such access is determined to be infeasible because of incompatible uses, safety, security, or harm to ecological functions. Where feasible, incorporate ecological restoration and public access improvements into the stabilization project.

(12) Shoreline stabilization must be designed by a geotechnical engineer, engineering geologist, and/or professional engineer licensed in the State of Washington with demonstrated experience in hydraulic activities of shorelines. Alternatively, soft shoreline stabilization may be designed by a habitat biologist or a qualified professional each with demonstrated expertise in designing soft shoreline stabilization structures.

(13) The effects of the stabilization to upstream and downstream properties must be clearly disclosed and taken into consideration during the design of the shoreline stabilization structure.

(14) Shoreline stabilization shall be designed to take into account sea level rise and storm surges.

(15) Shoreline stabilization must comply with all applicable U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife requirements.

(16) Shoreline stabilization, as applied in this article, is generally distinguished from shoreline restoration activities. However, specific shoreline stabilization elements of restoration activities shall be guided by this section.

(17) Shoreline stabilization projects shall be designed to avoid and reduce adverse impacts to ecological functions as demonstrated by a mitigation plan pursuant to Chapter 35.40 CCC.