Newcastle planning commission holds public hearing on state-mandated middle-housing and ADU code changes

The Newcastle Planning Commission held a public hearing to collect public comment and commissioner feedback on a package of proposed code changes that would implement recent Washington state middle‑housing and accessory dwelling unit (ADU) laws and a related affordable‑housing policy on fees or on‑site units. Staff emphasized the state deadline of July 1 for several new provisions and said the commission would not vote at the hearing.

The hearing centered on state laws staff identified by bill numbers and on several sections of the draft city code. Associate Planner Tyler Coyle said the laws “require duplexes in all single family zones” and that the city must allow up to two sellable ADUs on lots in single‑family zones and remove owner‑occupancy requirements for ADUs. Coyle warned that “if we cannot get it passed” by July 1, “the state laws will override our current code” and a state model ordinance could apply in the interim.

Why it matters: The package would change which housing types are permitted across much of the city and set design, setback and parking rules that affect feasibility for homeowners and small developers. Staff stressed that most changes are to comply with state law but highlighted several areas where the city could go beyond the state — and sought commissioner direction on those points.

Key proposals and discussion

- State laws cited and timing: Staff referenced several state bills by number and the Department of Commerce interpretation that duplexes and the two‑ADU allowance are an either/or choice on a given lot rather than cumulative. Staff repeated that several provisions take effect July 1 and, until local code is adopted, state rules would apply directly. Mike…