Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Seattle council adopts interim rule banning most "negative use" covenants that block grocery stores and pharmacies
Summary
The Seattle City Council on Oct. 28, 2025, adopted interim development regulations to prohibit most private covenants that prevent grocery stores or pharmacies from occupying properties, aiming to prevent creation or expansion of food and pharmacy deserts. The measure passed 9-0 and is temporary for one year while permanent rules are developed.
Seattle City Council on Oct. 28 adopted an interim regulation that prevents most private "negative use" covenants, leases or deed restrictions from blocking a property's use as a grocery store or pharmacy.
Council President Sarah Nelson, the bill's sponsor, told colleagues the measure would ‘‘prohibit the imposition of negative use restrictions on grocery stores and pharmacies’’ while allowing narrow exceptions. Nelson said violations would be enforced through the land use code and could carry fines of up to $1,500 per day. The interim rules take effect immediately and would expire after one year while the Office of Planning and Community Development (OPCD)…
Already have an account? Log in
Subscribe to keep reading
Unlock the rest of this article — and every article on Citizen Portal.
- Unlimited articles
- AI-powered breakdowns of topics, speakers, decisions, and budgets
- Instant alerts when your location has a new meeting
- Follow topics and more locations
- 1,000 AI Insights / month, plus AI Chat
