The City of Renton is updating its zoning and development regulations in accordance with Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1110 (HB 1110). HB 1110 will result in significant changes to the city’s development regulations and overtime, the built environment.
In March 2023, the Washington State Department of Commerce released a statewide housing needs report stating that, by 2044, Washington will need more than 1 million additional units to accommodate projected population growth. To address the anticipated lack of housing choices and affordability, the Washington State Legislature passed HB 1110, in April 2023, to promote the development of “middle housing."
“Middle housing” refers to those housing types between single-family residences and mid-rise, multi-family development. Middle housing types referenced in the new state law include duplexes up to sixplexes, townhouses, stacked flats, courtyard apartments, and cottage housing. The new legislation will require cities to allow middle housing on all lots zoned predominantly for residential use, integrating multi-family housing in residential zones where currently not allowed.
Supported by MAKERS Architecture and Urban Design, City staff will prepare a middle housing ordinance, with a process that includes public and stakeholder engagement to inform the draft ordinance and help communicate the implications of HB 1110.