Lynnwood City Council unveils new zoning codes for residential development

The Lynnwood City Council Work Session on April 21, 2025, focused on significant updates to the city's Unified Development Code, particularly regarding residential zoning and housing types. The meeting highlighted the consolidation of residential zones and the introduction of new regulations aimed at increasing housing density and affordability.

Key discussions centered around three primary residential zones: the Neighborhood Residential (RN) zone, the Residential Multifamily (RM 45) zone, and the Manufactured Home Park zone. The RN zone aims to facilitate middle housing options alongside traditional single-family homes, allowing for configurations such as duplexes, triplexes, and townhomes. Notably, the RN zone will permit up to three units per lot by right, with an additional unit allowed for projects that include affordable housing or are located near major transit stops.

The RM 45 zone, which previously had no height restrictions, will now allow buildings up to 45 feet tall, with the possibility of increasing height to 75 feet for developments that provide family-sized units, senior housing, or affordable housing. This change aims to address community concerns about building scale and neighborhood compatibility.

Council members raised questions about the implications of new requirements, including a proposed maximum building footprint of 1,000 square feet per unit, which could limit the construction of single-story homes, such as ramblers. The council acknowledged the need to balance community preferences for smaller, cottage-style homes with the demand for larger living spaces.

The meeting also addressed parking requirements, with a new standard of half a bike parking space per residential unit, aligning with state legislation. The council plans to hold an online open house to gather feedback from the development community before finalizing the code, with an adoption timeline set for June 20, 2025.

Overall, the proposed changes reflect Lynnwood's efforts to adapt to housing needs while considering community input and maintaining neighborhood character. The council's ongoing discussions will shape the future of residential development in the city.