These amendments will update Bellevue’s Land Use Code and City Code for compliance with House Bills (HB) 1110 and 1337 to expand the number and type of housing units permitted in residential areas of the city.
Background
With the passage of HB 1110, state law requires cities like Bellevue to change local comprehensive plans and development codes to allow up to four housing units per lot (six per lot within one-quarter mile walk of a major transit stop or when two units are affordable) in a variety of housing types. In addition to single-family style buildings, residential areas will need to allow other housing types including cottage housing, courtyard apartments, stacked flats, and townhouses. Lots will still be limited to the maximum permitted density regardless of what housing development type is used in the project. Some examples of what these housing types could look like are shown below:
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The legislature also passed HB 1337, which will require Bellevue to update its comprehensive plan and development code regulating attached (AADUs) and detached accessory dwelling units (DADUs). These are other forms of housing that can be used to meet the additional units per lot requirements of HB 1110. An example of a DADU:
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Bellevue already allows many of the housing types listed in HB 1110 and 1337, but in limited areas. Bellevue is currently amending its comprehensive plan and development codes to meet the state requirements to allow these types of housing; however, individual property owners, residential developers, and the housing market will ultimately determine what gets built.
Additional information on changes is available in the city's comprehensive plan.
Engagement opportunities on the City Code and Land Use Code Amendments for Middle Housing will be available soon on EngagingBellevue.com.
Potential Flexibilities for Middle Housing
While the legislation establishes a minimum of how many units may be permitted on a lot, Bellevue has flexibility in how its development regulations accommodate these units in order to encourage Middle Housing development. These areas of flexibility include requirements for:
- Building height
- Setbacks
- Lot coverage
- Minimum lot size
- Additional density beyond 6 units per parcel in certain circumstances, such as within proximity of high-capacity transit or within proximity of neighborhood centers
- Affordable housing requirements
- Parking flexibilities
- Priorities for site design for cottage housing:
- Common space
- Landscaping
Related Projects
| Date | Meeting, Event or Action Taken | Links |
| 1/15/2023 | City Council Study Session | City Council Initiation |
| 10/9/2024 | Planning Commission Briefing | Planning Commission Meeting Agenda Materials |
| To be scheduled | City Council Briefing |