The Anacortes Planning Commission meeting on September 17, 2025, spotlighted significant changes to local housing regulations, particularly regarding rooming houses and co-living arrangements. As state laws evolve, the city is grappling with how to align its codes with new requirements while ensuring adequate housing options for residents.

A key discussion point was the definition and regulation of rooming houses, which traditionally allowed for multiple unrelated individuals to live together in a single dwelling. Recent state legislation prohibits cities from regulating the number of unrelated individuals in a home, creating a conflict with existing definitions of rooming houses in Anacortes. This has prompted city staff to reconsider whether the term "rooming house" should remain in the municipal code.

Commission members expressed concerns about the implications of removing the term entirely. They highlighted that without a clear definition, the city might struggle to govern these living situations effectively, especially in cases where property maintenance codes reference rooming houses. The conversation underscored the need for clarity in housing regulations to avoid potential legal and operational challenges.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the introduction of co-living housing, a new category mandated by state law. This type of housing is similar to rooming houses but is designed to meet modern living arrangements. The commission discussed how to integrate co-living into existing residential zones, particularly in areas that allow for multifamily units.

The consensus among commission members was that further analysis is needed to determine the best path forward. Staff will revisit the definitions and regulations surrounding rooming houses and co-living arrangements to ensure compliance with state law while maintaining diverse housing options for the community. The commission plans to reconvene with updated recommendations, emphasizing the importance of balancing regulatory needs with the evolving landscape of residential living in Anacortes.