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Committee approves unit-lot subdivision bill to help middle housing ownership
Summary
The committee reported out Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5559, which requires cities planning under the Growth Management Act to adopt procedures for unit-lot subdivision for residential development; the committee adopted a clarifying amendment and voted 7–0 to report the bill.
The Local Government Committee reported out Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5559 on March 21, recommending passage after adopting a cleanup amendment clarifying definitions and applicability.
The bill requires cities and towns that plan under the Growth Management Act to adopt procedures and specific requirements for unit-lot subdivisions, a legal mechanism that lets occupants own the land under individual attached homes such as townhomes. The committee adopted amendment ALI 500, which clarified the definition of “clear and objective design and development standards,” required those criteria be knowable to the public as well as applicants and officials, specified that unit-lot subdivision applies only to residential development, and allowed public pre-decision meetings and hearings where shoreline substantial development permits are required.
Supporters said the bill will help make middle housing — such as townhomes — more attainable by letting owners hold title to the ground under their units. Representative Seabee expressed support for the amendment and the bill's housing goals. The committee approved the bill by voice vote; staff announced seven ayes, zero nays, and zero excused.
The bill moves on to the Senate calendar for further consideration.
