Bill > HB1175

This bill requires cities and towns to allow "neighborhood stores" (convenience grocery stores or mini-markets of at least 500 square feet) and "neighborhood cafés" (establishments of at least 500 square feet that offer food if alcohol is served) to operate in any zone that permits residential uses, with some limitations. These businesses cannot display advertising for products illegal for those under 21, and neighborhood stores in residential zones cannot sell nicotine products. Cities and towns can regulate parking and hours of operation, but cafés must be allowed to operate for at least 12 consecutive hours, and any regulations must be no more restrictive than those for residential uses in the same zone. Cities planning under the Growth Management Act must incorporate these requirements into their plans by 2027 or within two years for other cities, with an exemption for smaller cities within large urban growth areas. The bill also amends existing law (RCW 43.21C.450) to exempt actions taken to comply with these new provisions from certain environmental review requirements, recognizing that these changes are intended to facilitate small business development in residential areas.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1175&Year=2025&Initiative=false