WA Senate passes bill allowing duplexes, fourplexes in single-family zones

In a significant move to address the housing crisis and housing affordability in Washington State, the Washington State Senate passed House Bill 1110 on Tuesday. This legislation, which received bipartisan support with a 35-14 vote, aims to revolutionize the housing landscape by allowing duplexes and fourplexes in neighborhoods traditionally reserved for single-family homes. The bill is expected to increase housing supply and density, offering potential solutions to the rising home prices and homelessness issues that have plagued the state.

Key Points:

1. Addressing the Housing Crisis: The passing of House Bill 1110 reflects a growing recognition that Washington State is grappling with a severe housing shortage. Sen. Yasmin Trudeau emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "We simply don't have enough housing in this state." The lack of affordable housing affects cities and counties throughout the state.

2. Local Control vs. Statewide Mandates: Opposition to the bill comes from those who argue that local communities should have the authority to determine their zoning and land use policies. Sen. Phil Fortunato stated his support for local decision-making, asserting that the state should not impose zoning decisions on communities.

3. Return to the House: The bill now returns to the House, where it initially passed in a different form. It's worth noting that the Senate version is more lenient in its requirements for small cities in Seattle's suburbs. The House will have the option to approve the Senate's changes or engage in negotiations to resolve differences.

4. Promoting "Middle Housing": This legislation is part of a broader effort to promote "middle housing," which includes duplexes, townhomes, and backyard cottages. These housing options offer more units than single-family homes but are smaller than traditional apartment buildings.

5. Protecting Private Property Rights: Sen. John Braun, a Republican, framed the bill as a safeguard for private property rights. The legislation aims to empower property owners to use their land as they see fit, within the guidelines set by the bill.

6. Meeting Future Housing Needs: The state Department of Commerce estimates that Washington needs to build an additional 1 million homes over the next couple of decades to accommodate population growth.

7. Varied Requirements for Cities: The bill introduces varying requirements for cities based on their population. Larger cities with more than 75,000 people must allow fourplexes throughout the city and can allow sixplexes under certain conditions. Smaller cities, with populations between 25,000 and 75,000, must allow duplexes almost everywhere.

8. Environmental Considerations: The legislation does not apply to environmentally critical areas or threatened watersheds around drinking water reservoirs, ensuring that it doesn't compromise critical natural resources.

9. Support from the Association of Washington Cities: Unlike previous attempts, this year's legislation saw collaboration with the Association of Washington Cities, which initially remained neutral but later provided its support. Cities recognized the need for a comprehensive approach to address the housing challenge.

10. National Trend: Washington joins other states like Oregon and California in revising zoning regulations to address housing issues. Oregon eliminated single-family zoning in 2019, and California passed a similar law in 2021, allowing property owners to build up to four homes on a single-family parcel.

Conclusion:The passage of House Bill 1110 in the Washington State Senate represents a significant step toward addressing the housing crisis in the state. By allowing duplexes and fourplexes in single-family zones, the legislation aims to increase housing supply, density, and housing choices. While the bill must return to the House for further consideration, its potential impact on housing affordability and availability in Washington State is undeniable.

Source:

https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/politics/wa-senate-passes-bill-allowing-duplexes-fourplexes-in-single-family-zones/?fbclid=IwAR2V701nSdqDSaLoDCVEj298CIxiQcIa-mJlyXqGmhXeCVzzZTBz-Am56uk