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Mercer Island council adopts permanent rules for temporary structures after debate over notice and fees
Summary
The council adopted Ordinance 25C‑26 to make temporary‑use regulations permanent, setting a 180‑day permit (with limited 30‑day extension) and keeping most routine permits as Type 1 (no direct mailed notice). Council directed staff to keep a docket open to study adding a low‑cost bulletin notice for Type 1 permits.
Mercer Island’s City Council voted Nov. 18 to adopt Ordinance 25C‑26, establishing permanent regulations for temporary uses and structures — including outdoor dining and seasonal 'bubbles' used by athletic facilities. The measure replaces interim rules that expire Dec. 16 and carries a standard temporary‑use permit duration of 180 days with a possible 30‑day extension.
City Planning Director Jeff Thomas framed the ordinance as the culmination of council direction that began at the 2024 planning session and noted the Planning Commission forwarded recommendations on Sept. 10. Thomas said the city had already applied interim regulations in 2024 and renewed…
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