Bill > SB5733

This bill addresses updating comprehensive plans for cities and counties in Washington State, with a primary focus on facilitating housing development. The legislation amends existing law to provide more flexibility for local governments in reviewing and revising their comprehensive land use plans. Key provisions include establishing specific deadlines for different counties to review their urban growth areas and development regulations, with staggered timelines based on county size and population growth. The bill allows smaller cities and towns (with populations under 500) to opt out of full plan reviews under certain conditions, while still requiring updates to critical areas, capital facilities, and transportation elements. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision allowing local governments to more readily adopt comprehensive plan amendments specifically for housing projects. The legislation also requires counties and cities meeting certain population density criteria to submit an implementation progress report five years after their plan review, detailing their progress on housing affordability, permit processing times, and greenhouse gas reduction efforts. The overall goal is to streamline local government planning processes, reduce barriers to housing development, and ensure that land use plans remain current and responsive to community needs.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5733&Year=2025&Initiative=false