Bill > SB5615

This bill adds a new section to Washington state law regarding project permit applications for residential housing units in urban growth areas. Specifically, the bill establishes that when a developer submits a fully completed project permit application for residential housing in an incorporated urban growth area, the application will be evaluated under the zoning and land use regulations that were in effect at the time of submission. The bill defines that local jurisdictions must establish their own criteria for what constitutes a "fully completed" application. While a jurisdiction can pause processing of a permit until applicable fees are paid or required notices are posted, the permit cannot be considered invalid or incomplete solely because fees haven't been paid or notices haven't been delivered. The bill also clarifies that these new provisions do not limit the ability to impose conditions related to environmental review under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA, referenced as chapter 43.21C RCW). The goal appears to be providing more certainty and stability for housing developers by "freezing" the applicable land use regulations at the time of a complete permit application.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5615&Year=2025&Initiative=false