Kenmore studies middle‑housing and ADU code changes; inclusionary housing deferred pending Commerce guidance

Kenmore City Council and staff reviewed draft middle‑housing and accessory dwelling unit (ADU) code amendments during a study session that addressed how to implement recently enacted state requirements and the planning commission’s recommendations. City staff described where the rules would apply, how unit‑density limits would work, and outstanding questions about inclusionary (affordable) housing requirements.

Assistant City Manager and Community Development Director Debbie Bent introduced the briefing and Kimberly‑Horn consultant Nick Chen walked council through the draft code. Chen explained unit‑density rules that apply where middle housing is permitted: outside high‑transit areas a property generally may have up to three units (for example, a principal single‑family home plus two ADUs, or two middle‑housing units); properties within a half‑mile of a major transit stop — or projects that include a deed‑restricted affordable unit — may qualify for up to four units under state law. “You could have a single family residence and 2 ADUs under 13 37,” Chen said, describing how ADU allowances interact with unit‑density limits.

Why it matters: the code changes flow from state bills implementing “middle housing” and ADU rules. They change what types of units can be built on lots in R4 and R6 residential zones, affect subdivision and unit‑lot rules, and…