Economic development advocates, business organizations, and community groups have frequently suggested that the goals of achieving desired development objectives and revitalizating neighborhood business areas are often hampered by a commercial zoning code in need of overhaul.

DPD was directed by the Mayor to investigate these contentions and make recommendations to amend zoning requirements in commercial areas that would remove unnecessary obstacles to achieving City policy and enhancing economic development initiatives in Seattle.

Over the past several months, DPD has conducted a review of Seattle’s Commercial land use policies and zoning requirements. DPD has formed an advisory committee that represents the diversity of stakeholders in commercial areas and the neighborhoods that surround them.

The goals of the project are to:

1. Simplify the Land Use Code and improve its legibility and ease of use.

2. Revitalize existing neighborhood business districts and support the needs of small business through innovation and reason in regulatory requirements.

3. Reduce unnecessary costs of development, particularly housing, due to excessive or redundant code and process requirements.

4. Support the Comprehensive Plan’s urban village strategy and promote higher levels of pedestrian and transit travel.

5. Maintain compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods.