Sequim planners flag low-density residential cap and propose raising short‑plat threshold to add housing capacity

Planning staff told the commission the Low Density Residential land use (R4‑8 zoning) currently limits new development to a maximum of 8 dwelling units per acre, a constraint commissioners and staff said could hamper affordable and multifamily housing objectives.

Commission discussion focused on options to increase density selectively. Commissioners and staff expressed support for a modest change that staff said they will bring forward: increase the short‑plat threshold from four lots to nine lots and amend the R4‑8 density cap in targeted areas to align with a nine‑lot short‑plat allowance. Staff noted that raising short‑plat limits to nine lots could allow more compact developments (for example cottages and multiplexes) without requiring subdivision hearings, and that many jurisdictions have shifted to nine‑lot short plats.

Commissioners also discussed a one‑story/one‑and‑a‑half‑story 18‑foot height overlay affecting historic downtown residential areas and suggested removing that overlay and adopting the standard 25‑foot (or 25‑foot/standard LDR) height limit consistent with R4‑8 elsewhere to allow full second stories where appropriate. Staff noted many of those areas are largely built out but that removing the overlay would permit more flexible infill and accessory dwelling unit opportunities.

Ending: Staff said they will draft code amendments (density/short‑plat and subdivision ordinance changes) to present to the commission. No formal vote was taken; commissioners generally expressed concurrence to proceed.