Monroe keeps ADU hearing open, asks staff to study mixed-use allowances and height limits under new state ADU law

Monroe City Council held a public hearing on May 20 and left the matter open, asking staff to return June 10 with options to implement Washington's new ADU statute while protecting downtown character and homeowners.

Staff presented draft amendments to implement House Bill 1337 (codified at RCW 36.78.680 and .681), which requires cities to remove certain barriers to accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and caps some fees for ADUs. Amy Bright summarized the required changes: remove owner-occupancy rules, allow up to two ADUs on lots that permit single-family homes (in attached/detached combinations), set a minimum maximum allowed ADU size of 1,000 square feet or 50% of the primary unit's floor area (whichever is larger), and permit detached ADUs in setbacks in specific alley-facing situations.

Why it matters: The state law takes effect July 1, 2025. Local code decisions will determine how ADUs are sited, sized and permitted in Monroe's existing neighborhoods and downtown. The council asked staff to refine the draft to better protect historic downtown character while complying with the statute.

Key details on the proposed amendments

- Owner-occupancy: staff proposed removing the current local owner-occupancy requirement, as required by state law.

- Number and configuration: the draft allows two ADUs on…