Committee holds public hearing on ADU code changes implementing state law; vote set for April 30

The Seattle City Council Land Use Committee held a public hearing on April 17 for Council Bill 120949, a package of amendments to Seattle’s accessory dwelling unit rules to implement Washington State House Bill 1337. Committee members heard two public commenters and received clarifying answers from staff; the committee scheduled a vote for April 30.

The legislation is intended to regularize ADU rules across zones to reflect state requirements enacted in HB 1337. Council Central Staff and the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) described the draft as carrying forward existing local provisions that are already compliant and bringing them into a consolidated section of city code. Dave Van Schaik of SDCI said, "I would say in general, there's nothing in the proposed 13 37's compliance legislation that goes beyond what the state is asking us; it's really about navigating our existing code constructs to make them make sense with that new legislation and that new section." That clarification followed a council member question about whether any proposed provisions go beyond state law.

Two members of the public spoke during the hearing. Alex Zimmerman addressed housing affordability and urged stronger action to hold large employers accountable for housing contributions; his remarks included invective and partisan language. David Haines urged changes to neighborhood design and higher-density development to reduce car dependence and improve livability. Both comments were heard during the public hearing and were limited to two minutes each.

Council Member Lisa (first names not on record for all members) and other members had no further questions after staff responses; the committee closed the public hearing and staff said they will return for a vote on April 30, 2025.