Council adopts code change to reduce setbacks for covered parking in Rural Village Housing demonstration program

Snohomish County’s Council adopted Ordinance 26-007 on March 18, 2026, changing county code to allow reduced setbacks for covered parking structures in the Rural Village Housing Demonstration Program and adding a new proposed section (referenced in the staff report as proposed section 30.41 h 0.105).

Deb Everson Bell, council staff, told the council the ordinance was introduced by Council member Nehring, had been first heard at a Feb. 17 planning committee meeting, and was referred to the planning commission after Motion 25-405. The planning commission held a public hearing Oct. 28, 2025, and recommended adoption. The ordinance includes a retroactive provision to allow applicants already in process to update their plans under the new rules.

Council member Nehring said the change was requested by Rooted Northwest for its Agri Village project near Arlington, describing the project as roughly 240 acres with a goal of keeping at least 85% in farming in perpetuity. "I'm really excited about the opportunity for these projects to happen," Nehring said, and suggested the project team provide a status update to council in the future.

The council opened public testimony and recorded no speakers. A motion to approve Ordinance 26-007 was moved and seconded; the council then conducted a roll-call vote and approved the ordinance 5–0. The chair announced the ordinance passed and the meeting was adjourned.

The staff report and council remarks indicate the amendment is intended to align setback rules with the demonstration program’s goals of promoting innovative, smaller-footprint housing in rural areas and minimizing impervious surfaces. The planning commission’s recommendation and the ordinance’s retroactive clause were noted as part of the record; council members requested a status update but did not attach additional requirements at the adoption hearing.