Bill > SB5555

This bill addresses zoning regulations in commercial, retail, and mixed-use areas in cities and code cities by introducing several key provisions designed to facilitate housing development. Specifically, the bill requires cities to allow housing units to be added in ground floor commercial or retail spaces in station areas (defined as areas within urban growth boundaries and near public transit stops), with a limitation that cities can designate no more than 10 percent of their commercial or mixed-use zones as major pedestrian corridors. The bill also provides an expedited process for developers to deviate from street-level use standards if doing so would result in more housing units. Additionally, the legislation prevents cities from imposing certain restrictions on housing development, such as limiting density increases, requiring additional parking for new units, imposing excessive design or permitting requirements, or denying building permits for housing additions due to minor non-conformities. The bill further mandates that cities and code cities must allow for greater building height and increased density in commercial and mixed-use zones for developments using mass timber products. These provisions aim to streamline housing development, reduce regulatory barriers, and encourage more housing units in existing commercial buildings, particularly in areas with good public transit access.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5555&Year=2025&Initiative=false