Burien adopts temporary‑encampment code with change to staffing requirement after council debate

Burien City Council voted on May 19, 2025, to adopt Ordinance 861, a new municipal code provision governing temporary encampments and religious‑organization shelters, and revised a staffing provision so that 24‑hour on‑site staffing is “encouraged” rather than required.

The ordinance was taken from the table for discussion after Deputy Mayor Sarah Moore moved to “take from the table ordinance number 8 61 for the purpose of discussion and potential action.” Planning staff and council members then debated the rules that would govern permit timelines, staffing and how the city should implement recent state law changes.

The council debate focused on three main issues: time limits for temporary encampments, whether 24‑hour on‑site staffing should be mandated, and the extent to which the city should adopt a local code that mirrors state law. Deputy Mayor Moore proposed an amendment to extend the allowable duration for temporary encampments to one year…