Regulatory Reform — Project Archive

Accomplishments

For the complete history of this project, please contact us at 684-8880.

Project Outcomes

Regulatory reforms addressed several topics, which provided new code flexibility:

• Streamlining environmental review with higher regulatory requirements in Urban Centers and certain Urban Villages
• Providing greater ability to mix residential uses in the ground floor of commercial zones
• Expanding opportunities for accessory dwelling units such as backyard cottages
• More parking flexibility for home-based businesses
• Easier permit renewals for temporary uses

Key Milestones

Land Use and Environmental Review Recommendations:

• July 2012 — City Council adopted Ordinance 123939
• March 2011 — City Council adopted Resolution 31282, establishing guiding principles for strengthening and growing Seattle's economy and creating jobs

Project Purpose

These proposals are intended to carry out Resolution 31282 and the Seattle Jobs Plan. The reform continues to help people weather the recent recession in three important ways:

1. Get people back to work — encourage entrepreneurship and new business development
2. Promote flexibility in the Land Use Code to foster innovation, improve efficiency, and eliminate unnecessary delay in permitting
3. Jumpstart new housing opportunities — encourages new investment in affordable housing