Committee reviews ordinance to update solid-waste storage and access rules for denser housing

Seattle’s Parks, Public Utilities & Technology Committee on July 23 heard a briefing on Council Bill 121005, legislation to update land-use rules governing on‑site storage and collection access for garbage, recycling and food‑and‑yard waste containers as the city’s housing types and collection equipment change.

The proposal, presented by Andrew Lee, General Manager and CEO of Seattle Public Utilities, and Angela Wallace, SPU solid-waste development review supervisor, would clarify definitions in the land‑use code, expand the code to apply to more zones, and set minimum dimensions and safety parameters for truck access and container storage.

Supporters said the changes are designed to prevent containers from blocking sidewalks, protect street trees, and give architects and developers clearer standards early in the design process. "We are here today with legislation that would update the solid waste storage and access regulations for the city," Andrew Lee said during the presentation. Angela Wallace noted the code is out of date: "The code has been incorrect for 16 years," and gave the example that older rules required only a 2‑foot by 6‑foot space for a recycle cart.

Why it matters: Council members said the changes affect how new…